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Ryoko AI 18

The weather was bright and sunny; ideal for sitting under the cool shade of a tree, but Eric didn't have time for such luxuries. He raced as fast as he could, carrying his small bag on his shoulders, with a bunch of tribal bandits chasing behind him. He galloped through Verity Forest's woodlands, carefully inspecting his surroundings before taking any turns, the sounds of hoof beats getting closer by the minute. Eric was just traveling to a different town when he came across their group by chance. He had heard stories of a cannibalistic group of bandits hidden near Verity Forest for most of his life, but now that he had encountered them, he couldn't help but flee or risk losing his life. To get away from them, he fled deep into Verity forest, not stopping even when the sounds of their approaching horses faded. He knew Verity Woods wasn't just any jungle; it was a place to be feared. Thousands of men and women had gone missing in this forest, never to be found. People in the surrounding cities and towns believed that the forest had a life of its own and that anyone who entered the forbidden sections of this mystical site would be consumed by the animals or the spirit of the forest. Once he was sure that he had lost the bandits, he silently made his way through the woods. There seemed to be no pathway around the area, everywhere there were tall trees covering the land as far as he could see. He ducked from every branch that was thrown in front of him, he jumped from every large root that threatened to trip him down. Eric's heart began racing as he heard the sound of leaves and dried branches cracking, followed by the sound of a large growl. Eric's body shook in fear, but he turned to look at the source of the voice; behind him, in some small trees, a wolf was growling and showing its fierce teeth; Eric could sense the hunger in his eyes, and he ran as fast as he could. Not caring for his bag any longer, Eric turned to look back at his predator, but the wolf was still running intensely behind him. With no other way to protect himself, Eric grabbed a dried fallen branch and threw it back on wolf, the wolf was somehow able to dodge from his attack but the branch flew and hit right at a beehive, some part of the hive fell down and the buzzing honeybees attacked the wolf and sent him running away in different direction, some of them even began flying towards Eric, who again began running, he ran and ran, suddenly he came near a large lake, it was clear and shining brightly under the sunlight.  The bees were still behind him, so he jumped into the water, held his breath, and waited inside for a few seconds. When he was confident they were gone, he started swimming to the other side, but the entire lake suddenly became blindingly bright, and he had to cover his eyes to avoid going blind. Then he was taken aback by yet another unexpected occurrence. The entire lake began to whirl quickly, and the vortex's intensity increased so quickly in a split second that Eric had no chance of escaping. He tried to swim out, but the vortex kept pulling him inside, and because he was fatigued from running for an hour, his body gave up and he fainted.  Around one hour later, he woke up. All his clothes had dried up, but he had a pounding headache. He heard the sounds of waves crashing down. As he opened his eyes and his vision became clear, he found himself lying on a beach. Everything seemed confusing. He was in the middle of the woods just an hour ago; now he was at a beach, and only one thing could explain it. He was teleported here through a portal in the lake. It was warm here, and the air was fresher and cleaner than in the forest. Eric decided to continue lying there under the sun, hoping his aching head would get better. That was when he heard the voice of a woman. "Pass it to me!" She was saying. That voice seemed to come from behind a large rock formation that was hiding his view. "Smack!" There was a loud sound of something being kicked, "No!" Another new voice yelled Eric's curiosity grew; he wanted to see where those women were. He got himself up and tried climbing over the large rock formation, fortunately there were some stairs carved into the rocks leading up that he hadn’t noticed at first. Climbing the stairs turned out to be an exhausting job. The sun was too high and the heat was making him tired, but somehow he managed to climb the last few stairs. As he walked to the top of the rock, he noticed that a group of naked women were playing some kind of game with a ball made out of vines and seaweed.  Their wet, sweaty bodies were glistening under the sun, their boobs bouncing as they jumped and ran to catch or hit the ball. Eric found his cock was starting to rise. After such a horrifying experience in the forest, he believed he was thrown into a paradise filled with beautiful women. He watched this beautiful scene with his eyes and filled his heart with joy. His tiredness was gone after watching their bare butts jiggling. He found a way to get down and made his way towards them. From up on the rock, they seemed to be normal women, but as he got down to the ground level, he realized that wasn’t the case. As he slowly walked towards them, one of them noticed him. "Look, it’s a man!" She giggled and every woman turned to look at him. There were four women in total. All of them were really tall, well-built and beautiful from head to toe. Eric was having a hard time walking with a really intense boner. "Hi!" Eric said as he was a few feet from them. "Wow! It’s been a long time since we had a man." One of them said, they watched him with curiosity, it was really weird to be ogled by naked women when he was all dressed up. As the black-haired woman walked closer to him, he got a better look at her body. He was really short and skinny compared to her, and only came up to her breasts. He couldn't help but look at their pussies because they were all naked, and three of them had shaved their pubic hair while the other had really wild but tempting bush. Eric just smiled and watched as all of those women surrounded him. They were towering over him. All of them were way taller than him. He looked like a small toy in front of them; he had to look up in their faces while talking. "Let’s take him to the city." One of them said, a blonde one this time. "We should take him to Xena." A brunette one replied, "The whole city can enjoy the sight in the square." "Uh... Excuse me!" Eric said, trying to make the focus on him, "Where am ..." Before he could finish his sentence, one of the women pressed a flower on his face and he passed out again. This time, when he woke up from a deep sleeping state, he heard the sound of horses moving and wheels rotating. A warm wind hit his face and his eye sight and senses began returning to him. He opened his eyes and looked around to hold onto something as he felt that he was moving, only to realize that he was being carried somewhere in a cage. He looked around to notice that he was inside a city. His cage was on a cart that was moved by a couple of horses. The cart was controlled by a mesmerizing woman, her beautiful blonde hair flowing down her toned back. Helpless and caged, he just sat and watched as the woman took him to a large city square. It was like an outdoor theatre. There was a platform in the middle where a dominant woman was sitting on a throne, and she was accompanied by the same group of women whom Eric had seen on the beach. A hundred beautiful and tall women were sitting around the area, watching him with curiosity. Some of them talked to each other and giggled to themselves while looking at Eric. He felt like prey in front of them, captured in a huge cage where he could easily stand up. Eric was surprised to see that there wasn't a single man in sight. The whole area was filled with women of various varieties: tall, blonde, brunette, black-haired, and readheads with incredibly slender bodies, smooth legs, soft feminine faces, and seductive cleavages. Most of them wearing a breast wrap around their tits and a short piece of cloth wrapped around their toned waist, barely covering their firm asses. The cart only stopped moving when it was right in front of the platform where the dominant woman, who seemed to be their leader, was sitting. Another woman came up to his cage and unlocked the bar door. Eric was excited by the sight of hundreds of scantily clad women, but at the same time, his heart also thumped hard with nervousness. The leader probably sensed his fear and said, "Come out, little guy. We won’t hurt you." Her voice was commanding yet a bit compassionate. Eric’s body reacted to her words, and he stepped out of the cage and climbed onto the platform. "I am Xena," The dominant woman spoke; she had long dirty blonde hair. Like other women, she was also wearing a breast wrap, which was struggling to contain her luscious breasts. "And you are welcome to the land of the Amazons." "My name is Eric. I... I accidently came here through a lake." "It doesn’t matter to us how you came to our land, but from now on you will have to follow every rule that is set upon you. Eric." Xena said, tucking her hair strands behind her ear. "You are our guest, and we believe that guests should be treated really well." Xena stood up and approached Eric, circling him and inspecting him. Eric had to crane his neck back to look into her fair face because she was taller than the others. Her golden hair cascaded down her shoulders. Her shoulders were broad and strong, and she possessed an enormous chest that could make any man hard in an instant. Her breasts heaved sensually even as she breathed, catching his attention as he examined every curve of her body with his eyes. "Sisters, let's give our visitor the royal treatment and strip him naked." Xena gave the order. "Uh... what?" Eric was astonished since he was only a small man in front of their towering and sculpted bodies, and he couldn't possibly stop them. Suddenly, he was ambushed by four ladies who seized his clothes and began pawing at his body, and he realized it was surely a paradise in disguise. But soon, their gentle caresses ceased, and they began yanking his stuff. First, they yanked his shirt so hard that the button flew off, then they pulled his trousers down, ignoring his protests and ripping his trousers in half. It was a short and brutal treatment that left him stark naked and embarrassed by one thing that the Amazons weren’t prepared for – he was rock hard. They stared at his fully erect dick for a few good seconds before bursting into laughter and giggles. Eric’s cheeks burned with shame and embarrassment, but he stood completely still, looking anywhere but at their faces. Eric was never a manly man. In fact, he had been mistaken for a teenager most of his life. With his skinny stature, short height, smooth skin, and erect dick, he was an object of fascination for women. Once the ladies moved out of the way, Xena dropped to her knees in front of him to inspect him closely; even on her knees, she still seemed mighty and powerful. "Umm hmm, you have a nice cock." Xena said, reaching out her hand. She probed the tip of his cock with her finger, gently caressing and tickling the underside with her finger tip. His body reacted to her touch; his body shivered and his cock began twitching rhythmically. Her other hand moved to explore the rest of his body, her fingers softly grazing over his skin. Sometimes she would pinch his soft nipple between her fingers, or sometimes she cupped and groped his ass cheeks. Eric looked around to see that all of the ladies were watching him with curiosity and a sensual glee in their eyes. When he looked back at Xena, his eyes fell on her tits, which were spilling out from her breast wrap. Eric just watched her tits as Xena inspected his body with her soft hands, and her breasts had such an effect on his that a small bead of pre-cum oozed out of his tip and crested upon his red tip. Xena observed his reaction, and reached around to untie her breast wrap. When the fabric that was holding her tits in place fell on the ground, her tits sprawled free and softly jiggled. Eric audibly sighed and some more of the pre-cum oozed out of his cock. Xena wrapped her fingers around his cock and used the finger of her other hand to scoop up his pre-cum on her finger tip. Eric watched with intense emotions as Xena’s fingers traveled up to her lips and she swiped the bead of pre-cum of her finger with a swift motion of her tongue. "Ah... mmm, so sweet." Xena closed her eyes and sighed as the taste of his pre-cum settled on her taste buds. The crowd of women burst into giggles and cheers. "We usually kill any person, man or woman, who trespasses through our land." Xena said, Eric’s body shivered in fear, his legs shaking as tears began to well up in his eyes. "But... I don’t want to punish you. First, you didn’t come here willingly, and second, my sisters and I are fascinated by you. If you want to stay alive, you will have to do what we say." Realizing that there was a chance of saving himself, Eric fell down on his knees, his cock now soft and small as usual, and he joined his hands and pleaded. "Please, don’t kill me. I will do anything you say." Xena stood up and turned to her sisters. "He is very good." She said. "And you women shall have your reward, but at night, send him to my chambers. As for your reward, when he is shared amongst our sisters, you four shall go first." "What do you mean by shared?" Eric asked, meeting Xena’s gaze. Xena smirked at him and said, "Oh, you naïve little boy. Don’t you understand? You are the only man in this land. Every woman and girl here will have a turn on you because, from now on, you are our sex slave." "Wait," Eric said, panic and excitement rising in his body, but none of them listened. All four girls from before walked forward as Xena sat back on her throne. A redhead girl was the first to remove her breast wrap which was followed by the others, all of them had really delicious looking tits, Eric couldn’t help but swallow hard as they loomed over him from all sides and then untied the clothes wrapped around their waists, even though he had seen them naked before but still he couldn’t help but feel his sexual urges strike him hard again. As the clothes fell down, Eric came face to face with their pussies. Their hips were curvy and alluring, their legs were shapely and muscled under the sun-tanned flesh. They didn’t wait much time and threw them upon him, his small body wrapped by their soft but sculpted figures. One of them caressed his back and thighs, while one slid her fingers through his hair, and one stroked his dick while the one grabbed his ass. It was an extraordinary experience for Eric; he had never imagined he would be desired by many women at the same time. Out of nowhere, those women pushed him down on his back, so he was lying on the ground. One of them, a redhead bombshell named Sana walked around him, she placed each of her legs on each side of his face, so that she was standing right over his face. Eric licked his lips, from his lying positioned he got a perfect look at Sana’s pussy, which seemed smooth and sexy. She had an innie so her slit and clit was hidden between her pussy lips. She slowly lowered her hips, and used her fingers to part her puffy lips, once the lips were parted Eric was gifted with the sight of her pink and sweet smelling hole. Sana didn’t stop for a second and lowered herself until she was crouching over his face, and her pussy just inches away from his lips. "Lick me! Lick my pussy." Sana commanded. Eric hesitated for a second. Even though he was craving to get a taste a part of him was nervous as well. Being watched by over a hundred females was actually very embarrassing. "Eric! You want to live, right?" Xena asked. "Yes!" Eric managed to spit out, his voice almost coming out like a squeak. "Then do as my sister says. From now on, whenever one of us commands you to please us, you simply can’t refuse. Do you understand?" "Umm hmmm!" Eric obeyed. His lips parted and he snaked his tongue out to make contact with her cunt. Sana’s body shook and she moaned, as Eric’s tongue made contact with her needy cunt. Her pussy was salty but warm; the immediate contact with Eric’s tongue made her whole body quiver. Sana settled over his face, and began gyrating her hips back and forth over his lips. "Ahh... yeah... ahhh!" She moaned, rubbing her pussy against his lips, swaying her hips and grinding harder as he began plunging his tongue in and out of her pussy. The other three women were also sprawled around his body. It turned out their names were Hera, Aerin, and Tisha. Raven-haired, Tisha was caressing his chest and licking his nipples while also pinching her own nipples with her free hand. Hera and Aerin were focusing on his cock. Both of them ran the tip of their tongue over his shaft, starting from the tip, where they teased the red mushroom head with their tongue and mouth, their tongue touching each other in the process, and both of them didn’t even shy from kissing each other either. They took a small break from Eric’s cock as their tongues collided with each other. They pressed their lips together and played with each other’s tongue. "Do you like it? Ahh... Do you like me riding your face? Do you like the taste of my pussy on your lips?" Sana moaned. Both of the girls were getting lost in each other’s mouths, but Sana’s words reminded them of their true target. They reluctantly separated from each other and settled their lips on Eric’s cock and balls. This time, the brunette Hera grasped his balls and glided her tongue over the soft, slippery skin of Eric's scrotum, delicately taking each one in her mouth and sucking them like candy.  "Oh my Zeus! This feels so good." Sana continued to grind her pussy over his mouth, her speed and intensity building as she felt the pleasure gathering in her core. Tisha, who was caressing his chest, swirled her tongue around his nipples, taking them in her mouth one at a time, while she flicked and pinched her own nipples with the same intensity. Tisha eventually let go of Eric's nipple, which had become erect and red from her sucking, and joined her sister between Eric's legs. Tisha sat on the left side of his leg, Hera on the right, and Aerin between his thighs. Hera encircled Eric's shaft with her fingers and closed her lips over his engorged tip, swirling her tongue around the sensitive tip and licking every drop of pre-cum leaking from his slit. Tish and Aerin were licking each of his balls with their lips, feeling the smooth skin of his ball sac with their lips; his balls were completely wet from all of their saliva, so when they sucked the balls in their mouth, it made a lovely slurping sound. The rest of the Amazon ladies had also taken off their clothing and were enjoying the sexual punishment put on Eric by pleasuring themselves while watching. While watching the show, some of them fingered their pussies, while others sucked and flicked their own nipples, and still others simply made out with their wives or sisters. They alternated licking each other's pussies and sucking the erect nipples in the hopes of satiating their sexual desires. The whole square was filled with the sound of slurping, licking, moaning, and cumming. Eric could feel his balls churning even though they had only been sucking his cock for a few minutes. The soothing feeling of arousal that came over him just increased and increased. His hips started to shake so much that the women had to push him down so they could continue to enjoy the taste of his small cock. And then, without even a warning, his cock twitched hard and he came, load after load of cum shooting out of his manhood. Tisha covered his tip with her lips and took a few spurts in her mouth. It ended with some shots landing on Hera and Aerin's lips and cheeks. Once his cock stopped twitching, Hera and Aerin quickly began licking all the cum they could, swallowing the warm, thick semen like it was some kind of sacred nectar. Eric let out a deep groan, but it was muffled by the weight of Sana's pussy. Sana was on the verge of orgasming as well, and the vibration from Eric's muted moan travelled to her cunt and sent her over the brink as well. "Yes... Yes... Yeaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!"  Sana pressed her pussy against his mouth harder, making it a little more difficult for him to breathe, and then her whole body froze as her pussy convulsed, orgasm crashing down on her, her feminine juice dripping down her pussy and trickling into Eric's mouth, and she didn't stop riding his face until her pussy was finally relaxed. She eased off his face and settled down beside him after the calming sensation had wrapped her body. The suffocation and weight of Sana's body had turned Eric's cheeks scarlet. He was a trembling mess. The three women beside his cock had cleaned every last drop of cum from his body and their faces until there was nothing left. "Haha... You came too soon; we hadn't even begun properly." Aerin, the blonde beauty, laughed. "Are you going to be able to please all of us?" "Don't worry, sister, aside from his dick, his mouth has excellent talents as well; I didn't want my ride on his face to finish." Sana murmured as she sat up after recovering from her post-orgasm haze. Tisha spread Eric's legs and sat between his thighs after a few minutes of talking. Tisha reached out with her two fingers and rubbed his soft and little dick, which was lying comfortably. Eric's body twitched in response, and Tisha's lips curved into a smirk as she watched his reaction. Eric returned his gaze to her hazel-colored eyes, and she winked before swallowing his entire dick in one go. She used her saliva as a lubricant and swirled the soft dick in her mouth, using her tongue to rub it inside her mouth and tickling the slit of his dick with it. Eric whimpered weakly, his legs jerking. Tisha pinned them down and attacked the head of his cock, drumming her tongue against the underside, letting her drool slip past her lips and down to his balls. Tisha quickly noticed that she doesn’t have to do too much, as Eric started moaning in seconds, his tiny voice making her bolder, making her tongue rub against his underside harder until Eric was practically sobbing with pleasure, hips bucking. "Is it too much for you?" Aerin asked, watching the reaction on his face and body. "Are you going to come so soon?" She ran her finger over his chest, grazing her blunt nail over his skin, turning his already aroused body into dynamite of sexual energy, which could burst anytime. "I know you can do it!  Make him cum in your mouth, Tisha." They began applauding for her sister, which encouraged her even more, but then they began to cheer for him as well. "Go for it, Eric! Fill her needy mouth."  Eric’s face turned flushed red with their words of encouragement, and he came into her mouth, his warm come shooting at the back of her throat, making her squeal with joy as Eric’s body jerked beneath her weight. Each of the four women rode his face and swallowed his dick one by one, causing him to lose track of how many times he came in between their turns. Finally, Hera caressed his cock and made him erect once more; she leaned over him for a second, staring at him with unending hunger. Eric braced himself for what was to come by blushing deeply and making the women around him grin and chuckle. "Time for my ride, little boy." Hera teased, before lowering herself over his pelvis. As she pushed herself down on him, she guided the cock into her pussy with one hand. Eric’s cock made its way into her cunt, dipping into her slit in one swift motion. Her pussy was warm, wet, and a bit tight. Even with his small size, Hera was able to feel the pleasure from his cock. Eric tried to hold back a throaty moan, but was unable to. Once again, this caused the other Amazons to laugh and cheer. Hera grinned widely. She pulled herself up until only the tip of his cock was in her and then pushed herself down without warning. It was a slow and steady pace at first. Whether it was to savor the moment or to make sure they wouldn’t tire him out too soon, he didn’t know, but he didn’t care much either way. As she fucked him, Hera’s breasts jiggled and swayed, Eric wanted to reach over and grab them, knead them in his small palms, but she was tall and too hard to reach for, so he just let her ride him. After cumming countless times, his stamina was beginning to last a little longer than before, allowing Hera to ride him for a few minutes. Eric let out a couple of loud grunts as she ground her hips harder, trying to make herself cum before he could come himself. And somehow it seemed to work. She stopped pushing herself up and down and just grinded herself back and forth so that her clit was rubbing onto his pubic bone. This provided her with dual pleasure. Hera tightened her pussy muscles around his cock and made him gasp. His eyes flew wide open and his mouth gaped open when she continued to tighten her muscles a couple of more times. Her breath became heavy and she closed her eyes. "Ahhhh..ummmhhh." She whimpered, trying to find that sweet pleasure before Eric could explode in her cunt. And then it came, "Ahhhh.." just a few seconds later. The woman near them was also masturbating to their act, and she moaned loudly, eliciting a moan from Eric as well. Most of them were busy pleasing each other or fingering themselves, but Xena just sat there with a grin on her face, watching carefully as her own sexual need grew by the second, but she didn't even touch her pussy; instead, she kept her cool and waited for night. Hera’s back arched as she rubbed her clit on his pubic mound for the last time, her cum leaking out of that cunt, her muscles constricting Eric’s cock in a tight embrace, making him shoot his load as well. Hera’s head fell back as Eric shot his cum inside her, filling that needy hole with the only thing that she desired. When finally it was all done, Hera leaned forward and kissed Eric’s forehead before she stood up and sat on the side, inspecting the current state of her pussy, which was filled and drenched with the mixture of her juice and Eric’s cum. Eric was completely exhausted; his cock had softened and his hips continued to twitch slowly; some of the cum from Hera's pussy had trickled down on his cock and balls, which glistened in the setting sun; Eric couldn't believe it; it was afternoon when he came here and now it was evening; the sun was finally setting.  Because he couldn't move owing to a lack of energy in his body, Eric closed his eyes and fell asleep. While he was half asleep, some warm hands grasped his nude body while he was half asleep; he could dimly feel himself being moved as a woman took him in her arms and set him down on a comfortable bed. When he opened his eyes, he was bathed in a large bathing pool by the same four women from the beach, who were rubbing his body, washing away all the dirt and sweat, and in just a few minutes, he was ready, completely fresh and energetic as before, but now he smelled a little flowery, which was due to some scent the woman had poured on him, to make him smell feminine just like them. He was naked all the time. His dick was erect and dangling in front of their faces, but this time none of them stroked his dick or tried to ride him. They seemed to be readying him for Xena. After drying up, he was led to a lavish bedroom, where he was told to sit on a large, comfy bed. At first he couldn’t climb up because the bed was large and he was small. Aerin noticed this and grabbed his little body. She placed him on the bed and told him to wait, while they all left him alone. A few minutes later, Sana walked back into the room. Eric’s cock twitched after watching her enter the room with a gleeful grin on her face, "Oh look how cute you’re looking here?" Eric just stayed silent and watched, "But I can’t have you all to myself, at least not now. My sister is coming. Be ready for her." Sana said. She had a blindfold in her hand, which she wrapped over his eyes and tied behind his head. Then she guided him and made him kneel on the bed, "Bye, Eric. Have fun." She said, in a sensual tone, as she gave him a kiss on the cheek and made her way out of the room. Eric just knelt there on the bed waiting for her to come. The only thing he could do was just listen to the sounds coming from the castle and outside the window. The atmosphere was soothing as the chilly but perfect wind blew over his naked body. Eric tipped his head up as he heard footsteps entering the room, the blindfold keeping him from seeing anything. It was followed by the sound of doors closing. Eric tilted his head as the sounds of footsteps that were caused by Xena’s high heels came closer. She walked up to the bed, he was right near the edge, and she just stood before him, just inches away. She looked down at his body, admiring how adorable he looked. His cock had become soft, but it was still a sight to see. Leaning closer, she whispered in his ear, "You look so sweet waiting on your knees, probably begging for me to touch you?" Eric almost whimpered as he felt her hot breath against the side of his throat. "Do you want to know what I want to do with you?" Eric nodded. He could almost imagine her grinning at his nod. She placed her hand over the side of his thigh and traced the soft flesh with her finger; Eric’s body reacted to her touch by shivering once again. Suddenly, her touch disappeared from his thigh, and then she brought her hand under Eric’s chin, tipped his head up, and pressed her lips to his. He let out a shocked, muffled yelp as her lips landed on his. He blushed and became embarrassed as his cock instantly grew hard. Xena’s eyes were closed in ecstasy. Knowing that his life depended on it, Eric accepted her supple smooch. His lips parted easily enough to allow Xena’s eager tongue to enter his mouth. Xena’s tongue met Eric’s the next moment, and he didn’t fight her – or rather, he couldn’t. Instead, Eric accepted her tongue happily, letting out a needy, girlish moan. Xena wrapped her free arms around him to pull him closer, making Eric’s cock sandwiched between their bodies, just as their bodies met. Eric understood that Xena was still dressed. Eric savored Xena’s taste, pushing his tongue against hers and wrapping his arms tight around her shoulders as she began running her hand down his body. Her fingers traced the delicate paths down his chest towards his lap, then back up. She teased his hard, pink nipples, and pinched them as she gently chewed his lower lip. When she finally broke the kiss and pulled away, both of them were shuddering with arousal. Xena wanted the pleasure to begin as soon as possible, so she untied his blindfold. Eric just smiled as he continued to kneel. She smiled back at him. Stepping back a bit, she slipped the straps of her dress off her shoulders. When the dress finally fell to the ground, Xena was standing bare naked in front of him. His mouth watered with desire after getting a better look at her body. He had only seen her breasts but she was beautiful from top to bottom. Eric totally understood why they chose her as their leader. Eric’s blush deepened as his gaze fell down to her tits. She noticed him staring at her mounds. It seemed to amuse her as she walked over to the bed and asked him, "Do you want to taste them?" Eric shook his head in a yes, without even wasting a second, she used her hand on the back of his head to pull him closer, and he made a cute little squeak as she gently pressed her nipple between his lips. Eric’s face was utterly deep red as he realized she wanted him to suck her nipples. Eric looked up at her face. Her eyes were closed as she enjoyed the feeling of his lips around her soft bud. The look on her face was enough to make Eric’s body move on its own as he began to suckle. She let out a happy sigh and a soft moan, her toes curling with passion. She wrapped an arm around his body and pulled him close to her as he sucked. He too made small, embarrassed whimpers as she caressed the back of his head. To make the act more pleasurable for her, he brought his hands to her big boobs, feeling the weight at the same time he suckled her nipples. He squeezed her tits in his small hands as hard as he could. She squealed with delight at his grip on her mounds. He squeezed her left tit and leaned forward, holding a part of it in his mouth. He clamped his lips around her erect nub and sucked hard, making her gasp. She tightened her grip on the back of his head and held his mouth over her breast, moaning and rubbing her thighs together as the sweet pleasure began to gather in her pussy. Xena was making him feel as comfortable as she could, and it was working as his little body began relaxing as fears and worries faded from his mind, feeling safe and secure in her arms. "Aaaah!" She moaned, closing her eyes and tossing her head back, a delightful smile on her lips. Xena finally loosened her grip on his head and let him go for a second. Their separation didn’t last long as Xena climbed onto the bed, wrapped her arms around his naked body, and pushed him down on his back. Her lips again found his as she lied on top of him, but their kiss ended abruptly too. She left a kiss on his cheeks and then trailed a series of slow sensual kisses down his collarbone, enjoying every little moan and whimper that was leaving from Eric’s mouth. She began kissing down his chest. She moved her lips to his side and began kissing a path down his ribs. She could feel him shaking beneath her and slid her hand up his chest to still him. Xena looked up, meeting his eyes as she grinned wickedly, her lips moving over to his tummy. She could feel him squirm as her lips reached closer to his dick with every kiss. Once she reached near his cock, she stopped and slowly lowered her mouth to tease him. At first, she only used the tip of her tongue to gently touch the underside of his erect dick. But suddenly, her touch became stronger, and she licked the underside with more passion. Eric’s body stiffened and his back arched as the spark of intense pleasure shot up his spine. She slowly reached her tongue to the tip of his dick and swallowed the whole shaft with her lips, while Eric quivered from the powerful sensation of her warm, wet mouth engulfing his dick, her tongue caressing and milking it. Xena started moving her head in a slow rhythm, her chin rubbing against his balls. Eric could feel the pressure building as Xena sped up and deepened her movements. He moaned and gasped from the approaching pleasure. Xena continued to please the man happily, but Eric couldn’t hold back. As he cried out, his hips bucking and his cock thrusting in her mouth, she continued to lick the dick as he filled her mouth with hot cum, shivers running over her whole body as her thirst for the taste of semen was getting quenched. She lovingly sucked all of the cum that oozed out of his dick and licked him clean until not a single drop was leaking from his slit. Once he was soft, she quickly walked over his head, placing each knee on either side of his head. She lowered herself over his face. Eric knew what she wanted and, after an incredible orgasm from her mouth, he wanted to please her as well. Using his hands, he spread her legs so her pussy was open in front of his mouth. It was wet and her folds were practically glistening with her arousal. Without further ado, he dipped his head between her ass cheeks and rubbed his tongue on her slit. Xena moaned, almost screaming from the sudden attention as he latched his mouth around her pussy and sucked. As he lapped up her juicy cunt, her head tipped up, and he began to fuck her pussy with just his tongue minutes later. She moaned, whimpered, and grabbed the sheets on the bed, but he didn’t stop. Eric just kept sucking and licking that sensitive cunt as he aimed to hit that special spot inside her. Reaching down between her legs, Xena found her aching clit which needed some attention to. Just as she rubbed her needy bud, Eric also found the g-spot in her pussy. Suddenly the pleasure was elevated in a way she hadn’t experienced. It didn’t take long until she felt the familiar ache of an orgasm. She threw her head back, moaning as her muscled body tightened, the walls of her pussy tightening around Eric’s tongue as she was about to come all over his face, but she immediately got up from his face and grabbed his cock, which was starting to get hard again. She quickly straddled his thighs, positioning her pussy over his erect dick and lowering herself onto his dick. It was completely hidden inside her pussy in an instant. She let out a beautiful, sweet moan with a lewd smile on her face as she happily felt his cock throbbing in her waiting pussy. Xena started moving her hips, starting slow and not being too intense, her hips moving with a steady rhythm, yet moaning happily as she made Eric’s dick move and rub inside her. Her tits bounced and swayed as she moved up and down, her body quivering every time she made his little cock thrust into her. His face was flushed, half-open eyes glazed over, his cute little tongue hanging out a little as he panted and moaned. The wonderful, hot, soft, tight pleasure coursed through his lower body as Xena’s pussy tightened around his dick. Finally, Xena raised her hips up and shoved them down for the last time, crying out in sweet ecstasy as she came, beneath her Eric also lost his self-control and squirted his cum, letting out a girlish moan as he did so. His body stiffened and his back arched, hips twitching and shaking as Xena’s juices began coating his cock. The pleasure was so overwhelming that he went limp. Their moans softened as their climaxes ebbed away, but their bodies continued to quiver from post-orgasm bliss. She slowly slid off his body, his dick easily slipping out of her cunt in the process, and she wrapped her arms around his small body, so they were cuddling. She turned him so he was facing her and tipped his head a bit to kiss him deeply. She caressed his hair and rubbed his back as he kissed her back. When their lips parted, he just looked into her eyes and smiled. "My sweet little boy..." She breathed, "You are mine now. You can spend time with my sisters, but at night, I am your master and you are my slave. Do you understand?" "Yes, Master." He said, kissing her back as they both fell into a deep, soothing sleep.

There he was, the big city.  Twelve fell down to the ground as he tried to process the sheer size of the skyscraper in front of him.  He gulped back his excitement as he picked himself back up. It was just as Mother said, the city was nothing like back home. Even though it was night time, he could barely see any of the stars in the sky.  “Ms. Noire, do you think I could touch the sky if I climbed up there?” He said, gesturing his arms towards the top of building that towered in front of him.  The woman he called towards pinched her furrowed brow and readjusted the circular rimmed glasses on her nose as she sighed at him. He stood out way too much. The boy’s hands were bound together by thick shackles which clanged every time he moved.  A look of awe was painted over Twelve’s face. The innocence reflected in his grey eyes were framed by the dark circles bordering beneath them. His messy hair acted as their curtain. The boy’s most notable feature was perhaps the jagged scar that ran across his right eye.  The hooded ruana wrapped around his shoulders fluttered as he spun around towards Noire. It’s black fabric was coming loose at it’s ends but he didn’t seem to mind.  The chains attached around his ankles dragged as he walked along. The woman following behind him couldn’t be described as inconspicuous either. She was dressed in an all black prim and proper suit. Unlike the boy, she kept her hair well maintained in a neat bobcut.  What was even weirder was the fact that in her hand she held a chain. This chain led towards the neck of the boy she was behind.  Noire pulled out her phone as she made a call. It rang a couple of times before the other side picked up. “We’re outside,” she said.  The doors to the building in front of them clicked as it unlocked and Twelve merrily pushed ahead. Of course he fell backwards due to the tight grip Noire held on his leash.  The boy laughed as he lay there on the ground. An eerie smile slowly made it’s way onto his face. “I like you, Noire.”  He said.  The woman immediately froze. Those were the words she had wanted to hear the least. The book strapped to the boy’s waist began to emit an ominous green hue.  “Twelve!”  The book ceased to glow as soon as someone shouted his name.  The two looked towards the man pushing open the door. Twelve’s expression immediately dropped into one of disgust. The voice belonged to the last person he wanted to see. “Ah, Dr. Corson!” Noire said in relief.  Through the doors walked a man who didn’t at all resemble what one would consider a doctor. He had an attractive build, but his shaggy hair and unkempt appearance did nothing at all to compliment that.  The only doctor-like thing about the man was his lab coat.  The man nodded his head at Noire and then turned towards the boy still sitting on the floor.  “Twelve…” he said. “What did I tell you about collecting friends?”  Twelve clicked his tongue. He didn’t see a problem with what he did but the Doctor always found a reason to scold him.  “Apologize to Ms. Noire.” Corson told him.  Twelve got up and faced the woman. He looked down towards the ground as he kicked the rock at his feet.  “I’m sorry for wanting you to be my friend.” He muttered.  “I swear this child.” Corson sighed with an exasperated expression.  Twelve scowled at him. “I’m not a child anymore, I’m already seventeen!” He shouted. His shackles clanked as he attempted to cross his arms.  Corson ignored him and walked back through the doors. He gestured towards Noire to come inside. She nodded and tugged on the chain leash, dragging Twelve through the door behind her.  The Doctor called for the elevator designated for the upper floors and quickly boarded onto it, looking back towards Noire.  “Cover his eyes.” He told her.  Noire removed a handkerchief from her pocket and tied it around the boy’s head. Twelve showed no sign of resistance towards this. Noire felt a drop of sweat trace it’s way down her neck.  Once Corson had confirmed that the boy could not see, he faced the button pad showing each different level they could be taken to. He pressed the buttons to form the shape of a capital ‘A’. Above the pad opened up a slit. Corson pulled out his keycard and inserted it.  The elevator rumbled as it began to descend. Twelve tilted his head as it did so.  “What does this do?” He pipped up.  Noire’s eyes nearly bulged out of her head when she saw what he was holding. It was her keycard. She snatched it back out of his hands.  “How did you even get this?” She asked him.  The blindfolded boy just smiled without saying a word. Corson quietly checked the shackles that bound Twelve’s hands together. There was nothing wrong with them.  Noire placed her keycard into her breast pocket. There was no chance that he could grab it there without her noticing. The elevator slowed to a stop and they exited out into yet another hallway. The walls, floors, and ceilings were all made out of the same smooth grey concrete.  There were two metal doors standing side to side at the very end on the long hall. Their steps echoed as they walked down towards them. Corson took the leash from Noire’s hands. He pushed Twelve through the door on the right and into a lare white chamber. The man removed his makeshift blindfold and undid the shackles that bound him.  Twelve stretched his body and looked around. He fixed his hair in the mirrored wall that stood in front of him. Behind him was a metal bed attached to the wall.  He smiled, he never expected he would be treated so well. They even provided him with a toilet and sink.  Twelve watched Corson exit the chamber and then sat on the bed.  Noire watched the door close behind Corson. The Doctor looked at her and handed her the shackles and chains he had removed from Twelve.  They entered the door on the left. It was a simple room meant to observe the boy through the double sided mirror.  Corson pressed a button on the console along the wall that allowed them to hear inside the cell. Twelve was humming to himself.  “Doctor…” Noire said slowly, “Isn’t the boy’s cell rather… large?”  The man chuckled at her words. He shook his head and turned to her.  “I’d say that we aren’t giving him nearly enough.” Corson stated.  Corson looked back at the console and pressed yet another button.  “Twelve.” He said through the intercom.  The boy looked around puzzledly when he heard the Doctor’s voice.  “Why don’t you show us your… friends?” Corson pressed the button once more, turning the intercom off.  Twelve scratched his head and stood up and walked to the middle of the chamber. He closed his eyes and held his now unrestrained hands together, facing his palms straight out in front of his body.  An ominous green light krept from the etching on the cover of the book on his side. The book began to float towards his palms as it fluttered through it’s own pages.  He opened his eyes as a smile appeared across his face.  “Til death do us part…” he whispered. From behind him rose up a decrepit archway. Noire and Corson gripped the console in front of them as the room began to shake.  The rusted gates of the archway slowly creaked open, spilling an eerie mist out of them. Noire shuddered. She had heard about it multiple times but she had yet to see it herself.  A single hand stretched out from the gateway and clawed into the cell’s ground. More hands piled out, each becoming increasingly more and more rotten. Corpses began to drag themselves through the arches, piling on top of each other before standing at attention behind Twelve. A single jet black hand, if you could even call it that, gripped one of the pillars of the archway. Despite such a horrifying scene, the boy’s smile brightened.  A horrible monster dragged itself out. It was a twisted amalgamation in the form of a woman. It’s pure black form rippled with pulses of dark red. Each step it took spread poison into the floor.  Twelve ran over to the hellspawn and embraced it. “Hello, Mother!” he exclaimed. Noire dropped to the floor. She hadn’t read this in his files. She had heard while travelling with the boy of his mother. He described her as the most beautiful and caring woman in the world.  The Doctor had a grim look on his face. He reached a hand out towards Noire. She reached her trembling arm up and accepted his kindness.  More and more twisted monsters began to force their way out of the gates until they filled the entirety of the chamber as Twelve continued on with his joyous laughter.  “Doctor… just how many people…” Noire didn’t finish her sentence.  She could only stare in horror at the countless faces pressed into the glass. 

Pandemic. It came suddenly and ravaged the world. It was something no one was ready for neither did they take it seriously and they paid heavily for it. Yet as the years went by, fellow earthlings got it under control.   Soon, the roads and streets started looking more and more livelier until you couldn't see the difference between before and after the pandemic. Yes, people again stopped caring halfway through but the good thing was, vaccines came out.   Even though certain age groups that were more susceptible to the virus were given the vaccine first, soon other age groups also got a chance.   One of them was an 18 year old girl, Meara.   She was your average girl with an average short height of 5"3, brown eyes, short black hair, and an average body. And all of that was coupled with anxiety, social anxiety, depression, etc. You know, the usual for 18 year olds.   Though she was ever ready to go and get her vaccine as her board exams, aka the exams that literally decided her life, were approaching and she didn't want to fall sick during them or there goes her life. Anyways.   She had arrived alone at the nearby hospital where they were giving the vaccine for free and stood in line. The line wasn't too long, around 12 people. Originally, her father was supposed to accompany her but in the end she came alone as he had something to do.   The system of the vaccine was very simple too. It was simply standing in line waiting for your turn, showing registration, writing down your name, taking the vaccine, then sitting in the waiting area for 15-30 minutes, and then leaving. The waiting area was spacious with large benches arranged in front of each other with a significant distance.    And while she waited in line, bored, she glanced around at the waiting area. You know, something anyone would do. But she didn't expect to find an extremely gorgeous girl sitting there. She wasn't wearing her mask and looked to be of asian descent. She was dressed in black jeans and a black top, had long black hair tied into a single ponytail, and looked to be waiting after the vaccine. Meara's brain malfunctioned. She did a double take because she thought she was seeing things. She wasn't. That girl was simply that pretty.   She panicked and immediately messaged her best friend, telling her of the recent development. Of course, her best friend made fun of her. Sure, it was because her best friend was demisexual and more into men than women. But Meara at that point couldn't be bothered by it. Because that girl was so, so beautiful, Meara lost all reason.    While she was panicking, her turn soon came and after confirming her identity, she went inside for the vaccine. Of course, after she stole another glance at the girl.    She was looking forward to looking at the girl again soon but just with her luck, the vaccines finished and she had to wait 10 minutes for new ones to arrive. And by the time she was done and went outside, the girl was gone.    Meara looked around 5 times. She didn't find her. So she messaged her best friend to tell her of her loss and to also tell her that she was done since her best friend was also getting vaccinated today.    After a few minutes, she left for home. And while she was on the road, that girl's face kept coming to her mind again and again until by the time she reached home, that girl was all she could think about.    She changed and freshened up before she took out her phone and messaged her best friend, again, dying over the girl. Because she was so, so pretty. So beautiful, and so hot. It was as if she fell in love with her at first sight.    That thought made her pause.    She messaged her best friend saying the same thing and her best friend definitely agreed with her. So next she messaged her whole friend group (which consisted of a total of 5 people including her), and told them about how she saw the girl.    She got made fun of again but only two of her friends were online and one was aro ace and the other was her best friend. The nice ones weren't online. Which was very sad.    But in the following hours, her affection and love for that random girl grew and grew until she could barely function.    When the nice friend came on, she tried to help her by telling her to go back to the hospital under the excuse that she wrote her name wrong and take a picture of everyone's name before her and then try on social media platforms to try and find the girl.    There were so many things wrong with that idea, Meara just gave up. Because in the end, she had nowhere near as much courage to do anything mentioned above. She had social and normal anxiety for god's sake!    So in the end, she just sat in her house mourning the death of her first love that didn't even start.    Sure, there were chances she might meet that girl again a month or so later when she takes her second dose but seeing her luck, yeah no.    But she's fine! Because she had a very bad memory to the point of not remembering something she studied yesterday. So she could easily forget that girl in no time!    _______   She didn't forget her. Quite the opposite actually. That girl's face became more cemented in her shitty brain.    Like, her brain could forget all the subjects she studied in this whole month but it could not forget one girl?! One. Girl!    Today was the day of her second dose. She was violently woken up by her parents in the early morning of 10 am. The reason given was that the queue would be pretty much non existent this early. So grumbling, she freshened up, got ready, and left the house.    She wasn't going at the same time as that day. And honestly, at this point, she had no hope of meeting that girl ever again. So she simply wanted to get the vaccine done and over with.    And as she reached, indeed, the queue was pretty much non existent. She was at number 4. So she stood in line and messaged her best friend that she had reached. Of course, her best friend was also taking the second dose today.    And as she was done typing, she finally looked up and froze. The queue had reduced to 2 people. The third person was signing her name before going. And that's what made Meara freeze.    Because that third person, was that girl.    All the feelings Meara ignored came crashing right back up. She couldn't take her eyes off of that girl. So much so that she even signed her name in a daze and took the vaccine in a daze.    As she reached the waiting area, the girl was sitting alone away from everyone holding the cotton on the wound and had just taken her mask off. Meara tried not to seem awkward and sat down all the way in front of the girl. She didn't take her mask off though. No way she had the courage to do that or sit beside her. So all she could do, was stare at her from a distance. Also, not to forget, message her friend group about the shocking development.    Her hands were literally shaking as she typed the message, sent it, and waited for replies. She looked up to see the girl on her phone as well. Wow, she was still so pretty. She definitely hadn't hallucinated that beauty that day. Which was something her brain had tried to make her believe this coming month as some sort of a messed up coping mechanism..? Anyways.    She stopped staring when she heard a chime from her phone. Her friends had replied. All of them. And all of them said the same thing.    "ASK HER NAME AND SOCIALS!!"    And yes, it was in caps.    But of course, if she had that courage, she wouldn't be the average 18 year old she is today. So sending a simple 'Haha nope' to the group, she kept her phone down again, waiting for more messages and looked up.    The girl was gone..?    "Excuse me" she heard from beside her.    Her head snapped concerningly fast to her right and she saw the same girl standing there. Meara's brain stopped working and the result of that was the reply,    "Uh- Wha- Um- Ye-Yes?"    The girl gave a small smile seeing her fumble and spoke, "Sorry for startling you. But uh, this might seem like a weird question but, do we know each other?" she asked.    "Wh-What?" Meara asked, confused. She was so glad she was wearing her mask right now and the girl couldn't see her panicked face.    "Uh, you were staring at me for quite a long time so I thought maybe you knew me?" the girl replied.    Meara's blood froze. She caught her staring! Abort mission!!   "Uh- Um- N-No. Um, sorry. I was uh- staring at you because y-you were p-p-pretty. S-Sorry" said Meara, barely getting her words out at the end and looked at the ground.    Though the girl's face had a full smile, "Is that so? Thank you" she said looking at her.    Slowly looking up, "S-Sorry" Meara said then. It was literally the only word she could think of right now.    "Why are you apologizing? It's not a crime to simply look at someone you find appealing, is it?" the girl said then with the same smile.    Meara.exe stopped working at that smile. Which again resulted in the reply, "Uh- I-I guess"    The girl simply smiled in response and asked then, "May I sit here? I still have some time left to leave" she said, pointing to the space beside Meara.    "Uh- Yeah. Sure" Meara replied. She still couldn't believe this was happening.    Sitting down, the girl offered her hand with a smile, "I'm Enya. Nice to meet you"    Meara nervously held the offered hand and feeling the smoothness and softness of it, Meara malfunctioned once again.    "Uh- Um- Uhhh- I'm Meara! N-Nice to meet you too" said Meara after she had literally forgotten her own name.    Enya let go of the hand then with a smile and spoke, "Meara. Hm, that's a pretty name"    "O-Oh. T-Thanks. Your name is prettier though" said Meara. She mumbled the last part not thinking Enya would hear it.    She did. "Well, thank you once again!" said Enya with a smile.    Meara blushed hard and looked away. So, so glad she was wearing a mask.    "Hey, Meara", spoke Enya then.    Meara looked at her indicating that she was listening.    Enya continued, "Can you take your mask off?" she asked.    "Wh-What??" Meara asked, confused and surprised.    "Well, it's just that you've seen my face but I haven't seen yours. Isn't it a bit unfair?" Enya replied.    "O-Oh. Okay. I-I'll take it off" said Meara nervously.    Then, after a few discreet deep breaths, she took her mask off and put it in her pocket.    She didn't look up for a few seconds because of nervousness.    Though when she looked back up, she saw Enya simply staring at her without moving.    "W-What?" she asked, extremely self conscious about her face suddenly.    Finally then, Enya spoke, "You're pretty. Wow. It's not just your name, you yourself are so beautiful. Why would you hide behind the mask?" she said looking right into Meara's eyes.    Meara blushed. Hard. And this time there was no mask to protect her. So she turned her head down and muttered,    "Um- Th-Thanks for the compliment..?" she said that because she honestly had no idea what else to say.    Enya chuckled at her behavior. "I only told you what I saw" she said then.    Meara was now blushing to her ears and couldn't speak for the life of her.    Enya chuckled at her and simply let her compose herself while she watched her with a smile.    It was a minute later when Enya's phone rang. She picked it up and after a few words exchanged, put it down. Then she spoke,    "I gotta go. Mom needs my help back home"    "O-Oh" said Meara trying to hide her upset look and avoid the sinking feeling in her stomach.    But then, Enya spoke again, "By the way, do you have any socials? Instagram, Facebook, or the likes?" she asked.    "Y-Yeah. I have an Instagram.." Meara replied confused.    "Great. Here, go to your profile" said Enya next and opened Instagram on her phone and handed it to her.    Meara, still shocked and confused, took the phone and went to her profile and handed it back.    As Enya took the phone back, she simply pressed the follow button and then went to her own profile and showed it to her, "This is my profile so if you see a follow this profile, it's me" she said with a small smile.   "I-I see. Thanks" Meara replied. At this point, replying properly was something Meara had no idea how to do.    Enya smiled fully at that and got up, "See you when I see you" she said.    "Y-Yeah. Se-See you around.." Meara replied.    Enya smiled in response and walked away.    Meara let out a big exhale as soon as she was alone. It took her the next 15 minutes for her brain to become functional enough to move again and get home.    But even she was not aware that there was a smile on her face throughout.    As she freshened up and ate something, she spammed her friend group telling them of the recent development. And just as she thought, everyone was speechless. There were only dots in the chat. Well, she understood them. Her mind was dots right now too.    And while she was waiting for them to recover, she received another dm. From Enya.    She panic opened it and there was a simple message there,    "Hey. It's Enya"    So after taking a deep breath, Meara replied back,    "Hey"    The message was seen immediately. Then after half a minute of typing, another message came through,    "How are you doing? Have you stopped freaking out now?"    Meara froze when she saw the message. Enya saw her freaking out!? Well okay, it was kind of hard to miss it but still.    So letting out an exhale, she replied,    "I wasn't freaking out"    So yeah. She lied. But she can't just admit she was having a gay panic the whole time okay.    "Mhm. So, what're you doing?"    Enya sent back. She didn't believe her, did she? Sigh.    "Was relaxing, doing nothing. How about you?"    Meara replied then. Texting is fine by her because no one sees her face.    "Just finished some work with mom. Resting before going back to it. Then will study"   Came back the reply.   Reading so, Meara was naturally worried about her doing work after the vaccine. So that's why she sent,    "Is that okay? Shouldn't you rest? Or maybe take meds?"    The message was once again immediately seen. But the reply was a bit delayed.    "It's alright. I feel fine. I'll take meds if I feel worse. What about you though? How are you feeling?"    Came back. So Meara sent back,    "I feel okay too rn. My injection hand is a little heavy but nothing more. Will take meds if it gets worse"    Meara replied back. And she wasn't wrong. Her right hand wasn't feeling the best. But she hoped it'll be fine.    "Ah, I see. Well, take care of yourself. I gotta go now. Bye"    Sent back to Enya.    Meara let out an involuntarily smile and sent back a simple,    "Yeah. You too. Bye"    And kept her phone down. She hadn't thought Enya would've messaged her so early!    So next, she ranted to the group again with screenshots and made the group speechless again. She was also laughed at when they read Enya saw her freaking out but that's okay. Anyways.    After that, she simply time passed a bit and ate lunch and after a significant while later, slept, as she was feeling extremely sleepy.    When she woke up in the evening, she felt horrible. Her hand hurt and she was definitely running a fever. Sighing, she put some casual clothes in her half dead state and left the house towards the pharmacy.    _______   The pharmacy was near their house but her mother had stopped her at the very last minute and told her to bring her medicine. And for that medicine she had to take a detour to a different pharmacy. She just wanted to go back home and check her phone to see if there are any new messages from Enya because she not only forgot to check her phone before leaving the house, but she also forgot her phone in general. Sigh!    The pharmacy was relatively empty. Just 3 people, one man, two women, wearing masks and buying medicines.    Meara breathed a sigh of relief and entered and gave the person the prescription her mother had given her. Then she also added,    "Also, please put some general fever and painkiller medicine with that"    The pharmacist nodded and got to work.    Barely a minute later he handed her the medications and she immediately took it and walked out.    As she was about to leave, a hand on her shoulder stopped her. She turned her confused to see who it was and froze.    Enya.    Enya chuckled at her wide eyes and taking off her mask, she said, "Surprised to see me?"    Meara nodded, "Y-Yeah"    "Well, I am too. I didn't know you lived around here" replied Enya then.    "I don't actually. Um, this pharmacy is the closest to my house where my mom's prescription is found. I live about 20 minutes away from here by walking" Meara replied, pointing to the direction of her house.    "I see, I see. Walk with me? We are going the same way till at least that intersection" Enya said then pointing to an intersection of three way roads in front of them.    Meara nodded. "Okay"    Enya smiled and they both started walking.    As they were walking, Enya asked, "So, did you fall sick?"    "Yup. Slept and woke up feeling horrible" Meara replied and stopped at the road crossing along with Enya.    The intersection wasn't a crowded place so there were no zebra crossings built.    A truck was coming from far away. Meara simply wanted to wait for it even if she could easily cross it. But Enya didn't.    So she grabbed Meara's hand and pulled her across. "Let's go!"    They easily crossed the road and went on the sidewalk and the truck still hadn't crossed.    But that wasn't what Meara was focusing on. What she was focusing on, was Enya's hands. In her hand.    So while Meara was frozen, Enya let go of her hand and spoke, "Your hand is very warm. Let me see your forehead" she said and touched Meara's forehead before Meara could prepare herself.    "That's warm. You should hurry up home and take the medicine" Enya said then with a worried look.    Meara was simply frozen all this time and blushing. It took her quite a while before she replied, "Y-Yeah. I-I will. T-Thanks"    Then she added, "Um, what about you? You were buying medicines too, right? Are you okay?" she asked, worried.    Enya gave a small smile, "Yeah. I feel a little sick, nothing much. Rest is all I need"    "You should take it then! Or it'll get worse" said Meara next.    "I know, I know. But I really need to study. Exams are too close to my liking and I haven't studied enough. But, I'll rest earlier today, alright?" Enya replied.    Meara sighed in understanding, "I feel that. Well, please take care of yourself lest you just fall over"    Enya chuckled, "I'm not that weak"    Meara smiled under her mask too.    Then Enya continued, "Well then, before I leave, can you grace me with your face?" she said in a playful tone.    "A-Ah. Sorry!" Meara apologized and took her mask off.    Enya chuckled, "I'm kidding with you. I just wanted to see your pretty face. Now that I have, I'll leave" she said with a grin, pinching her cheek lightly and wore her mask again.   Meara was again, simply, just frozen. And blushing.    "I'll text you. Bye" said Enya with a smile and went her separate way.    It took Meara an embarrassing amount of time to make herself functional again and put her mask back on and leave.    But once again, there was a smile on her face.    _______   The next two weeks were bliss for Meara. She and Enya talked through Instagram or met a few times when they left the house. Meara felt like she was living her best dream. She couldn't believe that she was actually talking to a girl like Enya.    Enya was so... perfect. She never held it against her when she was freaking out and actually patiently waited for her to compose herself. Because Meara still stopped functioning when she saw Enya. Even though it had reduced a bit, it was there. It will probably always be there because Enya was just that beautiful.    And in these two weeks Meara found out that even if she wasn't in love with Enya before, she definitely was now. Because everything she was feeling when she met her first, it was magnified tenfold now. Her heart just couldn't handle it.    Presently, it was evening and she was simply going over some notes when her phone rang. It was a video call. From Enya.    She panicked for the first 30 seconds. Then in the next 30 seconds, she picked up when the call was about to cut.    Enya's beautiful face was reflected to her. She looked to be sitting on the floor leaning against the wall. Her hair was down and she was smiling.    "Hey. Sorry, did I disturb you?" she said.    "Ah, n-no! I was just going through some notes, nothing important" Meara replied.    "Hm. What subject?" Enya asked then.    "Economics" Meara replied and turned her camera.    Enya groaned as soon as she saw it, "Ugh, please do not show me economics. I'd rather see your beautiful face" Enya finished with a charming smile.    The camera visibly jerked. Meara was still not used to that! Even though it's probably an extrovert thing to praise your friend this much, she can't handle it!    So after taking a discreet deep breath, Meara turned the camera back. She just hoped Enya couldn't see her red face.    Enya noticed the camera jerk but didn't comment on it and simply smiled as the camera was turned.    "Hey, I was wondering, wanna go to that new café tomorrow? There's a discount.." Enya said next.    "Uh.. yeah. Sure. I'd like that" Meara replied with a smile.    Enya smiled too, "Great! Should we meet at the intersection and walk from there?" she asked.    Meara nodded with a smile, "Sounds good"    "Alright then. It's a date. I'll let you get back to your notes now. See you tomorrow! Bye!" Enya said then and immediately hung up. You would think she was in a hurry to say that and leave...    Meara on the other hand... Yeah.. There was no function. A date....? Huh..? What date? Huh.    Then she screamed into her pillow. That calmed her down enough to realize. It's a date all friends go to. Of course it's a friendly date. What was she even thinking? She's the one who fell in love with Enya at first sight. Enya didn't do that. There's no way she could've. Sigh. Let's study.    _______   Next day, they met at the intersection. Enya looked pretty as always. She was wearing a casual all black girly outfit. She looked beautiful.    Meara, on the other hand, was wearing casual dark colored tomboy clothes.    And what she didn't know was, when she was staring at Enya, Enya was doing the exact same thing.    Though it was Enya who snapped out of her daze first, "Shall we go?" she said, offering her hand.    "Y-Yeah" Meara replied and took her hand.    Enya simply smiled and started walking.    The cafe was decent sized and was empty at this time. They easily chose a table and sat down and thought of what to order.    "Order whatever you want, it's my treat" Enya said then.    "W-What? No I can't do that-" Meara tried to protest but Enya cut her off,    "Let me have this one? You can pay me back by taking me out somewhere too. How about that?" she said with a smile.    Meara knew something was wrong with the way Enya worded it. But she simply went along with it and said, "Fine"    Enya smiled at that and they both got to ordering.    They both ordered coffee and some snacks.    After waiting in comfortable silence for their orders, a few minutes later, they had it. Both of them started carefully sipping the coffee first.    And as Meara was drinking her coffee while staring at the traffic outside as she didn't want to keep staring at Enya, she noticed Enya staring at her.    She turned her head back towards Enya and asked, "What is it?"    Enya smiled, "Is it a crime to look at someone I find appealing?"    Meara went speechless. She was opening and closing her mouth with no words coming out.    Finally, hiding her burning red face with the cup, she mumbled, "D-Don't do that"    Enya laughed, "Do what? You asked me a question. I answered it"   Meara sputtered. "I- That- Whatever" she said. Her heart was pounding and her face refused to go back to normal.    Seeing Meara's state, Enya didn't tease further and let Meara calm down and simply watched her with a smile.    Meara simply didn't calm down until they were done. But Enya had no problems with it.    As they were about to leave, Enya spoke, "Hey, can I have your number?"    "H-Huh- What?" Meara asked, confused and surprised.    "You know, in case I need to ask you something urgently, having your number will be much better" Enya casually replied.    "O-Oh. Okay. Sure" Meara replied.    Enya smiled at that and handed her phone to Meara to type in the number.    Meara carefully took it and typed in her number. She checked it three times to make sure she typed the correct number.    Enya took the phone back then and saved it. Then she gave her a call.    "That's my number" she said.    Meara took out her phone and saved the number too. "T-Thanks" she said then.   Enya smiled in response and got up, holding out her hand.     Meara took it with a light blush and they left the cafe and walked back towards the intersection hand in hand with smiles on both of their faces.    As they crossed onto the sidewalk once again, Enya let go of Meara's hand. Meara was about to tell her she'll see her soon when Enya suddenly stepped forward and... hugged her   "See you later" said Enya then.    But Meara was simply frozen. That was for two reasons this time. One, she doesn't know how to hug people! And two, Enya was too close!   Enya noticed her frozen and let go and stepped back and looked at her face.    Being stared at, Meara hurriedly said stuttering, "Uh-Uh Y-Yeah. S-Sure"   Enya looked at her for a few more seconds before she smiled. And said, "You don't know how to hug people, do you?"    "W-What! N-No! You just su-surprised me. That's all!" Meara defended with all her might. She was not letting Enya find out such an embarrassing thing!    "Mm, really?" Enya said then with a grin.    "Y-Yes! I can hug people perfectly fine!" Meara said then.    "Hm. Okay. Hug me then" Enya said then, her grin never receding, and standing with her arms out.    Meara just stared at her. No words. How was she supposed to do that?!    "See. It's okay to admit it, you know?" Enya said with a grin, keeping her arms down.    "N-No. I can-" Meara tried to weakly defend again but was cut off when Enya stepped forward again and looped her arms around her neck and hugged her. Again!   Then, in that position, Enya mumbled in her ears, "Now, hug me back"   Of course, Meara was still frozen. Actually, more. Her brain was only screaming one thing. Too close!!   "I'm not moving until you do" Enya added.   Meara didn't know what to do. She was barely functioning. But the more she waited, the worse it would get. Ugh! Why was she so useless!    So shakily, she put her hands lightly on Enya's back.   "C'mon, hug me back properly" Enya mumbled with a soft chuckle.   Shakily and cautiously, Meara did.   Enya hummed, nodding. "See, that wasn't so hard now, was it?"   Meara simply hummed because she couldn't speak for the life of her. She was still panicking.   Finally, Enya let go and stepped back.    But before Meara could calm herself down, just before stepping back, Enya dropped a kiss on her cheek.    Meara.exe malfunctioned. Her face was burning all the way down to her neck.    Enya laughed, "You get flustered so easily, don't you?"    Meara simply couldn't speak.    Enya continued, "A cheek kiss is a simple greeting and goodbye, you know? You'll have to get used to it" she said with a grin.    Meara nodded multiple times before finally speaking, "Y-Yes"    And while she said that, Enya mumbled something,    "Coz' it's not the only kiss you're gonna get"    Meara didn't hear it. The words. She heard a faint mumble, not the words. So she asked,    "Huh? Did you say something?"    "Hm? No, no I didn't say anything" Enya shrugged.    Meara nodded confused.    And while she was confused, she missed Enya's discreet smile.    Then Enya spoke, "Anyways, see you... later?"    "Y-Yeah!" Meara replied.    Enya chuckled, "Also, don't forget, you owe me a date!" she said and turned around and walked away. She actually practically ran away because she didn't want to give Meara a chance to refuse.    Though, she didn't have to. Because Meara stopped functioning for a short while again. You know, the usual.    _______   The coming week was once again, bliss. With the added stress of exams. Her exams were in the start of March, February started days ago, and Meara hadn't studied enough and the stress was making her want to toss the books outside her window.   It was afternoon right now and Meara wanted to just be done with studying for today. Her mind was spinning the more she looked at the words and nothing was getting memorized. She wanted a distraction or she'll actually die because of Geography.   She texted her best friend and told her to entertain her. Her best friend very nicely replied to that,    "No <3"   "...." she replied back.   "I'm studying instead of procrastinating unlike someone. Call your girlfriend or smthg Idk" said the next message.   Meara blushed at the girlfriend part. Her friends have been teasing her non stop for the past weeks. So instead of correcting her best friend, Meara replied,   "I don't wanna bother her tho..."   "You're bothering me tho?" came back the reply.   Meara sighed at that. Her best friend really cannot be helpful when she wants her to be.   But then came another message,   "Go on a date or smthg. Didn't you owe her one?? See, a reason to call. Now leave shoo"   Her best friend was right. But.. Can she..? She messaged her best friend again to ask her how to talk but her best friend simply was offline now. Sigh!   Where should she take her though? A beach? There's one nearby and there's a fort too... But, does Enya like beaches? And forts? How should she ask her that..?!    After a lot of panicking, Meara sent,    "Do you like beaches?"    Yes, such a great way to ask. She knows.    A few minutes later, there was a reply,    "Yeah. Why?"    Good! Now,    "What about forts? More specifically, beaches that have forts?"    She sent.    "I like them. Why the sudden question?" came back.    So she replied, "Well, I was thinking we could go to a beach? The one that has a fort..? Right now..?"    "Hm, Meara, are you asking me out on a date through text?"    Meara blushed reading such words. But she replied,    "....Yes? It's okay if you're not free!"    "No, I'm free. Meet at the same place?" came back then.    "Yeah!" Meara replied then.    _______   After meeting at the intersection, both of them took a taxi and left towards the beach.    The beach wasn't really crowded at this time of the day so both the girls had enough privacy.   "Should we go towards the water?" asked Enya then.   Meara gulped looking at the vast endless ocean. Yes, she had Thalassophobia. Did she forget about it when she invited Enya? No. Did she think she would be just fine? Yes. Is she regretting that? Yup. But is she going to say that to Enya? Nope.   "Yup. Let's go!" Meara replied then with a nervous smile and started moving.   She stopped just before the water's reach. Actually, her feet stopped by themselves. Wow, the ocean is scary.    "Let's go soak our feet" Enya said then, taking her shoes off and holding out her left hand.   Meara took her shoes off too but simply looked at the hand with a complicated look.   "Meara?" Enya spoke again, confused by Meara's behavior.   "Uh- yeah? Yeah. Let's" Meara finally said then and held Enya's hand. Her hand was definitely not shaking. Nope.   Enya walked a few steps before she stopped. "Meara. Why is your hand shaking?" she asked.   Meara flinched. Hard. "Uh- Um- What do you mean?" she stumbled, trying discreetly to get her hand out of Enya's.    Enya tightened her grip, "Meara. Are you scared of the ocean?" she asked then.   Meara's eyes widened. How did Enya figure it out that fast?!   Enya's look softened seeing her reaction. Next she asked, "Is it a phobia?"   "Uh- Um, ye-yeah. I-I'm sorry" Meara then said in a low voice looking down. Her eyes started getting wet. She felt horrible for ruining this.   Enya's eyes widened and she immediately stepped forward and putting her other hand on Meara's chin, she gently pulled it to look into Meara's eyes. And as Meara looked up, a tear flowed down from her right eye.    "Ah- I-I'm sorry I-" Meara tried to apologize again but her voice broke.    Enya smiled softly and gently wiped away the tear. "Meara, calm down. It's okay. I'm not mad. I don't even mind. I'll be happy if I just get to spend the day with you" she said then.    "N-No, I'll be fine I-I can do it I-" Meara tried to say but Enya cut her off.    By hugging her.    "Shh, first calm down. Then we can talk about what to do, yeah?" Enya said    Meara was frozen but she just nodded.    Enya didn't even mind that Meara didn't hug her back this time. She just wanted her to calm down.    It was after a few minutes when Meara had calmed down enough and Enya let her go.    "You okay now?" Enya asked.    Wiping her eyes and nose with a handkerchief, Meara replied with an embarrassed face, "Y-Yeah. Um, sorry for that"    "Sorry for what? Don't apologize for expressing yourself. It's normal, and it's okay. I'll never judge you for it" Enya said then with a gentle smile.    Meara blushed and just nodded, not making eye contact.   "So, let's check out the fort?" Enya said next.    "Um, wait. The ocean, we can soak our feet in. I'm not that scared. I just- I just need to step inside and then I'll be fine" Meara said then. And that one wasn't a lie.    "Are you sure?" Enya asked.    "Y-Yes. Definitely. That's how I've done all the other times too, so I'm 100% sure" Meara replied.    "But you know right, that you don't really have to? I don't care about going in the water if it causes your phobia to flare up. We can just watch it from a distance and check out the fort instead" Enya said then.    "N-No. I have to. Or else it'll just get worse. Plus, the water's only ankle deep. It's fine" Meara replied and stepped towards the water.    Her feet once again just stopped before the water. Ugh, why was this always so hard?!    Then she felt a soft sensation in her left hand.    She looked beside her and found Enya standing there with a smile, "Let's go in together, yeah?" she said, squeezing the hand she was holding.    And even though there was a blush on her face, Meara smiled and nodded.    It took her a couple of minutes but she stepped inside. Her face was red from embarrassment but Enya was still smiling softly.    "Um, you can let go of my hand now, I'm okay" Meara said then.    "Don't want to" Enya shrugged with a smile and pulled Meara to walk a few steps further.    Meara blushed, again, but nodded and followed Enya with a smile.    They walked in the water for a while getting comfortable and watched the other people far away all while always holding hands.    Then, something touched Meara's feet and being unprepared for it, she let out an audible gasp turned almost squeak and subconsciously tightened her grip on Enya's hand.    She immediately slapped her other hand on her mouth in embarrassment.    Enya looked at her and asked, "What happened?"    Slowly taking her hand off her mouth, "N-Nothing. Something touched my feet. I just got surprised, that's all" Meara replied with a red face.    "That was a cute noise you just let out" Enya said then with a smirk.    Meara's eyes widened in embarrassment and she tried to take some distance between them.    Of course, Meara forgot she was still holding Enya's hand and almost slipped body first into the water. Almost.    Because when Enya saw an embarrassed and panicked Meara step back and slip, she was already moving and pulled on the hand and pulled Meara upright before she splashed in the water.    But now, Meara's one hand was in Enya's and the other was on her shoulder and Enya's other hand was on her waist. In short, Meara was too close to Enya and her heart was pounding for various reasons.    "Careful there" Enya said with a smirking smile.    "Ah- uh- ye-yeah. Yup" Meara stumbled and stepped back, getting some distance between them. Enya let her hand go too.    Enya chuckled, "Let's go to the fort now, yeah?"    Meara nodded, "Ye-Yeah. Let's go" she said and started walking forward first.    Enya simply looked at her briskly walking away form with a smirk which turned into a smile. She followed.    The fort wasn't too big. It was said that it was 400 years old and used in a war to supply water and other things. It was beautiful though.   There were stairs leading up to the top level. There were a few people here but not enough to make one feel they have no privacy.   Meara and Enya reached the top and leaned against the waist high brick wall that faced the ocean. The ocean looked so beautiful from there.   "The ocean is beautiful from here" Meara said then.   "Hm, that's true" Enya replied.   Then she added, "Though, Meara, I have two questions. Can I ask?"   Meara turned sideways looking at her confused but nodded, "Sure"   Enya turned sideways too and asked, "Why did you suggest a beach when you had Thalassophobia?" she said with raised eyebrows and a small smile.    "Ah- That- Well, I didn't think it'd be that big of a deal..? And the beach is beautiful so, you know" Meara replied awkwardly.    "You'd definitely be the first person I've come across that takes their date to a place with which they have a literal phobia of" Enya said then, chuckling.    Meara blushed, "Ah- Uh- Do-Don't say it like that" she said and turned her head down.    Enya laughed, "I didn't lie though, did I?"    Meara's blush deepened and she couldn't reply.    Enya smiled and continued, "Now, for the second question, how did you get a phobia of oceans? You seem to love it if you're not near it" she asked.    "Honestly, I don't really know. One day I saw the ocean and I almost had a panic attack. I think it's from all the ocean related movies I’ve watched, games I’ve played, and books I've read that made me fear it. But you can't blame me okay, we don't know what's down there! Though, it's also why I love it..., anyways" Meara replied.    Enya laughed, "I see. That's an interesting way to get a phobia"    "Y-Yeah, true" Meara replied and turned back to face the ocean to hide her face.    Enya simply smiled at that and turned back herself.    They watched the ocean like that for quite a while. They talked about random things and anything that came to their minds.   Soon, the sun started going down.    "Oh, look! The sun looks so beautiful! I'll take a picture" Meara said and got her phone out.    Enya looked at the sun and the ocean too. It was definitely beautiful. But when she said,    "Yeah, beautiful", she wasn't looking at the ocean at all.    Meara didn't notice and kept trying to take the perfect picture.    Seeing her, Enya got her phone out too. She didn't want to take a picture of the sunset. She wanted to take a picture of the girl beside her.    So while Meara was taking ocean pictures, she didn't realize Enya was taking hers.    But after a while, a thought came to Meara as well. She wanted to take a picture of Enya.    She can do this. So, discreetly turning towards Enya, she prepared to quickly take a photo and turn back.    But Meara froze when she faced Enya. Because there Enya was, turned towards her, with a phone in her hand too.    Both looked at each other for a few seconds and burst out laughing.    "Let's just take a selfie" Enya said then after coming down from her laughter and opened the front camera on her phone.    Meara nodded and put her phone back in her pocket.    Enya chose a good looking filter and with the background of the ocean, she moved closer and put her hand around her waist and clicked a few selfies.    Meara stiffened for the first picture with how close they were but immediately made herself relax and properly stood.    "Do you want me to send you these later?" Enya asked after they were done.    "Ye-Yeah" Meara replied.    Enya nodded with a smile.    Then she added, "By the way, should we get going? It's about to get dark soon" she asked.    Meara nodded, "Y-Yeah, let's go"    Enya nodded and casually held her hand and they both left the place.    _______   As they arrived at the intersection, Meara spoke first,    "Um, sorry for kinda ruining the day due to my whole thing. I should've told you about it" she said apologetically.    Enya softly smiled at that. Then her smile turned mischievous and she spoke, "Hm, true, you did ruin it. You're gonna need to take me on a lot of dates to practice" she said with a smirk.   Meara immediately visibly blushed at that and no words came out.    "I'll forgive you right now on one condition though" Enya added.    "W-What?" Meara asked, still not recovered.    Enya smirked, "Hug me" she shrugged.    "Ah- Um- Uh- Can't you do it..? I'll hug you b-back then" Meara stumbled with an even redder face.    "Nope" Enya replied and stood there with her arms open.    Meara stared at her speechless.    "C'mon now, do it. What if someone sees you?" Enya said then. Truthfully, there wasn't anybody in visible range around. But of course, Meara was too panicked to realize that.    Meara visibly panicked more. So, with unsure steps, she moved forward and with uncertainty put her hands around Enya's waist.    Enya immediately hugged her back by putting her arms around her neck and hummed, "See, it didn't even take that long"    Meara mumbled something incomprehensible and made a move to pull away.    But as she was just a few inches back, Enya tightened her grip again. This meant that Meara was way too close to Enya's face!    "Hm, there's one thing I forgot" Enya softly said then.    Meara, through her red face, made a confused expression.    Enya smiled and leaned in and... kissed her on the cheek. Then she completely stepped back.    Meara stopped functioning for a solid 5 seconds.    Enya chuckled seeing her, "Still so cute"    "Ah- Um- I- Uhh-" Meara stumbled but no comprehensible words came out.    "Alright, alright, I'll stop. See you next time?" Enya said then.    Meara simply nodded with a red face.    Enya chuckled, "Text me when you reach home. Bye" and walked away.    "Y-You too!" Meara called out then.    Enya looked back and gave a bright smile, "Okay" and kept walking.    Meara blushed more seeing that smile and her heart skipped a beat.    She went home with a never receding smile on her face.    _______   A week passed. It was February 14 today. Valentine's day. A day where couples in love celebrate the day together with their loved ones and be happy.   But for people who had their exams not even a full month later, they were suffering with books in front of them.   One of them was Meara. She had definitely not studied enough. Not even the actual syllabus was done yet. And she could only study at specific times in the day as there was too much noise most of the time. How people had so much time was beyond her. But what was not beyond her was her sleep schedule. It didn't exist.   It was about the same with Enya too, she had asked. But Enya was much better at memorizing than her so she wasn't dying as much as her.    It was currently late afternoon and she was staring at her textbook. Yet no words registered. It was fun. She didn't even want to be here! She kinda maybe sorta wanted to give Enya chocolates... that she made... last night at 4 am... anyways. So, yes, she wanted to but she didn't know if she should. After all, giving chocolate to someone on Valentine's Day means that you like them. And she did, too much, but that wasn't the problem. She didn't want to make Enya uncomfortable in case she doesn't feel the same way.    She and Enya had gotten a lot closer over the past week. It was like after the beach, they just became more comfortable around each other. It was also the reason Meara started believing that maybe Enya liked her a little more than friends..? That and the literal screaming of her friend group saying that 'just friends' don't act like that. So yeah, she had a tiny bit of hope.    And while she was panicking, the reason for her panic was calling her.    Enya. It was Enya.    She was grateful for the call though. She needed a distraction.    Meara picked it up,    "Hey!" she said with a smile.    Enya chuckled, "Hey. Why so enthusiastic?" she asked.    "Studying" Meara replied in a word.    Enya groaned, "Understood. No further explanation needed. I actually called you for that too" she said then.    "For what..?" Meara asked, confused.    "Since we're both not having the best time concentrating, I thought we could try changing the environment and maybe it could help us concentrate and memorize better?" Enya explained.    "Oh, yeah, that. Sure, okay. Where to?" Meara asked then.    "Great. Well, I was thinking about the newly opened library? I heard it has private study rooms and is generally very quiet" Enya replied.    "Yeah, that sounds nice actually" Meara replied    "I know right. So, see you soon at the same place?" Enya asked next.    Meara hummed in reply. She was about to hang up but Enya spoke again,    "Oh, also, by the way"   Meara hummed, indicating she was still listening.    Enya continued then, "Happy Valentine's Day"    "Ah- Same to you- I mean, Happy Valentine's Day to you too!" Meara panic replied. She was definitely blushing.    Enya chuckled knowing exactly how Meara was feeling. "Alright, then, see you soon" so she said and hung up.    Meara didn't get to reply back before the call hung up. But she was kind of glad about it. She was panicking! How does Enya say that so casually! This is not good for her heart!    So as she calmed herself down, she took her bag and put a few textbooks and digests in it and a small box with the chocolates. She didn't know if she was going to give it but you know.    _______   After meeting at the intersection, they went towards the library.   They booked a study room for an hour. It actually wasn't as expensive as they thought it would be.   The room was big enough to be comfortable for two people. It was covered by walls on all four sides and with a window high up right in front of the door. There was a desk with two chairs, fans, a small couch, and a small bookshelf with various different books.   They entered and put their bags on the couch after taking the required books out and sat at the desk facing each other.    "Let's quiz each other after, let's say... 30 minutes?" Enya spoke first.    Meara nodded, "Sounds good"    "Well, good luck!" Enya said then with a smile and turned her eyes to the book.    Meara nodded with a smile and did the same.    She was studying Economics as there wasn't that much left. Sure, it was painful but it was only 2 more lessons she had to get through. Ugh, those were two lessons too much knowledge she won't ever need.    Enya, on the other hand, was studying Geography. She didn't hate the subject but she didn't like it either. The only takeaway from it was that the answers were short. Even though they were doubled in number compared to other subjects. Anyways.    30 minutes passed by fairly quickly.    "Ready?" Enya said first.    Meara put down her book with a skeptical look at it but nodded too.    Enya smiled amusingly at her expression but continued, "Let's start with objectives. You've studied all of those right?"    Meara nodded. Even that nod was uncertain. Economics is uncertain for her.    Enya nodded and took the textbook and the digest and asked, "So, what is it called when someone........."    It went on for about 5-7 minutes. In general, Meara got a score of about 6/10. And honestly, she couldn't care less.    Enya was amused throughout it. But after it ended she still said,    "Good job!" with a genuine smile.    "It's okay, you don't have to console me. I already know my memory is bad" Meara said then with a groan and put her head down on the desk.    "No, really, it was good. No one has a perfect memory unless they have specifically trained it. Even if it is objectives, you did great" Enya said then.    "That- Fine" Meara said then with a light blush.    Enya chuckled, "Now, my turn. Go on" she said and slid the books over to her.   Meara took and nodded. She immediately started asking so Enya wouldn't tease her more.   Enya noticed it but didn't mind it.   It was again around 5-7 minutes later when they were done. Enya got a score of 9/10. Much better than Meara.   Then Enya spoke, "Shall we sit on the couch? My back kinda hurts"   Meara nodded, "Yeah, same" and got up, picking up the books.   Enya did the same and they moved towards the couch.   The couch was about big enough for three people to sit comfortably. But when they both sat down, for some reason, there was not even a person's worth of space left between them. And the atmosphere was... weird?   To ease up the awkwardness, Meara said, "Y-You did much better than me"   Enya hummed, "Not much though. And Geography and Economics are very different" she replied.   "True, I guess" Meara said then.   Silence. Again.   A few minutes passed.    Then, after a big sigh, Enya spoke again, "Meara?"   "Y-Yeah??" Meara slightly jumped but replied.   Taking a discreet deep breath, Enya reached into her bag and pulled out.... a box of chocolates..?   Meara was simply staring at it like she was looking at a ghost.   "Happy Valentine's Day. Uh, as this chocolate indicates, I like you. More than a friend. Would you... go out with me?" Enya said then, holding out the box with a nervous smile.    Meara was completely frozen.    She didn't know how long after it was when she spoke, "Uh- F-For real? You really like like me..?" she said looking at the box.    "Yeah. I do" Enya replied.    So Meara took the box. Enya's smile widened.    But then Meara hurriedly said as if she just remembered, "Ah! Wait!" and rummaged through her own bag.    Taking out a small transparent box, holding it out, she spoke, "Ah.. Uh.. I may or may not have made these at 4 am so I don't know if they taste good but uh.. Happy Valentine's Day.."    Enya chuckled and immediately took the box, opened it, and ate one. "Hm. That's actually delicious" she said.    "Ah- th-thanks" Meara replied with a blush.    Then she opened the box too and ate one.    "Is it to your taste? I remembered you mentioned you don't like too sweet things so this was what I could find since I cannot bake to save my life" Enya said then.    "I love it. It's just perfect" Meara replied with a smile.    Enya smiled back. They both sat in comfortable silence for a minute before Enya spoke again,    "So, this means we're dating and you're officially my girlfriend, right?" she said in a playful tone.    Meara almost choked but replied with a very red face, "Ye-Yes"    Seeing such a cute face, Enya decided to tease further, ".....Seal it with a kiss?" she said with a smirk.    And Meara's reaction after that was pretty much that wide eyed emoji with a very, very red face.    Enya chuckled, "Too much?" she said looking at her face.    And Enya had thought that Meara would nod. Even Meara did. But instead Meara stuttered instead with jumbled words coming out and trying her best not to look at Enya.    This took Enya by complete surprise and her eyes widened in surprise. "No??" she asked then.   "I-I... do-don't k-know..." Meara weakly said, not making eye contact at all.    "...Want to try it?" Enya asked then. Even she was nervous here.   Meara stuttered incoherent words again.   "No?" Enya asked next.   "I- I-um I don't know what uh- ah-..." Meara tried saying but got too embarrassed mid way.   Enya softly smiled then. "It's okay. Neither do I. But I have no problem trying it with you. So, what do you say?" she gently said then.   Meara weakly nodded, "Ye-Yeah. But I- um- you do-ahh.." she tried to say.   Thankfully, Enya understood what she meant. "Okay" she said.   Meara was blushing down to her neck now. It was visibly red.   Enya smiled, "Would you like to close your eyes?" she asked then.   Meara was surprised at that question but she still nodded.    Enya nodded with a smile and Meara, after taking a discreet deep breath, closed her eyes.    And Enya, after Meara closed her eyes, exhaled too. Then she moved closer until she could clearly see all the small details on Meara's face. So beautiful.    Meara was still panicking when she closed her eyes. She was trying to calm down. Her brain wasn't listening. Then she felt Enya move. Then she felt Enya's breath on her face. It tickled. Then a hand lightly held her cheek and a few seconds passed.    Then she felt a soft sensation on her lips. It was light, and it was there for only a few seconds before it was gone.    She opened her eyes in surprise. She was met with Enya's face right in front of her looking at her with a light blush and a smile.    Enya hadn't pulled back fully. She was stunned. The way it felt was repeating again and again in her mind which brought a light blush on her face and a warm smile.    Meara was frozen looking at that look from Enya. She couldn't say anything. The soft sensation was repeating in her mind over and over again which was making her face turn redder by the second.    Then finally, taking her hand back but not reducing the distance, Enya spoke, "...Did you like it?"    Meara couldn't speak the words because of her embarrassment so she simply nodded, averting eye contact.    Enya smiled wider. "I'm glad" she said.    Before Meara could think to reply something from her panicked mind, they heard a knock.    "Excuse me, I'm sorry for disturbing you both but there's 5 minutes left for your session. There's another appointment for this room so we'd appreciate it if you didn't extend the session too much" the voice of a man said.    Enya replied, "Alright, we'll be right out"    "Thank you" the man said and walked away.    Then both the girls wordlessly packed their bags and slung them on their shoulders and stood up.    Just as they were about to leave, Enya spoke, "Hey, by the way, Meara?"    Meara turned towards her, "Yeah?" she asked. She was doing much better because of the interruption.    Enya moved closer, ".....Can I do it again?" she asked, looking right into Meara's eyes.    Meara looked at Enya, who was only about a step away from her, with wide, surprised eyes and a blush. She immediately knew what Enya had meant.    "Can I?" Enya asked again.    With a deeper blush, looking down, Meara mumbled, "Yes"    Enya smiled and took the one step that separated them and gently putting her hand on Meara's cheek, she leaned in again.    Seeing Enya's face getting closer, Meara immediately closed her eyes and waited.    Then she felt it. That soft sensation. This time she felt it much more clearly. It was... addicting?    Opening her eyes, she saw Enya, who had taken a step back, standing there and looking at her with the same warm smile. She blushed even deeper.   She really liked the feeling when Enya kissed her. But that just made her more embarrassed. She wanted to tell Enya clearly how she felt but she couldn't. Atleast, not right now. But soon, she will.   Enya smiled seeing Meara. She too had a light blush on her face. Kissing Meara was... addicting? She wanted to do it more. But she knew Meara was shy and she would give her all the time she needed.    After all, they are together now and time is all they have.    The End.    LOST__thewriter Hey, LOST here! I'm back with another story and it's a GL this time! And I may or may not have written this as a coping mechanism because I never got the girl ahaha. Anyways. Hope you enjoyed! Leave reviews, ratings, criticism, tips for improvements, and all that good stuff! And I apologize in advance if I may have missed a typo! See ya around! <3

Sunlight brightens everyone’s day, except Hannah’s, who’s burning up as she’s trying to do homework about a different heatwave! (And if your light blots out Heaven, the sun will scorch the Earth?) <hannah> ugh i havent had any time to do anything<vittoria> Rly<hannah> no im lying<hannah> like i had plenty of time i wasted it all<hannah> like like i have hw for like six classes please please wish me luck i dont wanna dieeeeeeeeeee<vittoria> Wishing u the best dear dr ur gonna make it ily<hannah> ty It was really all her fault. That wasn't something she said a lot, so she hoped everyone else savoured her weakness while they still could. Hannah was laying back on her bed, laptop on white pillow before her, phone in hand, exercise books scattered all across the white frilled bedsheets, curtains drawn forward to keep out the oppressing heat, princess curtains drawn back to keep in reality, the oh-so-constant drone of the aircon providing background static. Her work wasn’t hard. Actually, it was very easy. Watch and comprehend a few videos, read a few boring articles, and god forbid, the maths — the teacher for that was sick, so it’s not like they had even gone through the motions properly through class, sure, but still she’d just been everything off. Was she ever a hard worker? <giovanna> Yeah like like like classes have been really bad for me lately I actually have to do work on the day it’s set or I’ll die<ruby> you werent doing that anyway?<giovanna> I mean why bother...<ruby> yeah yeah true<ruby> HANG IN THERE MEA LUX HANNA WE LOVE YOU<giovanna> Yeah do that :)<ruby> Gio<giovanna> We love you :)<ruby> gio And a picture of a teddy bear holding a heart. She should stop checking her phone so compulsively — how could it be anything other than terrible for her work ethic? She swiped through tabs across her touchscreen laptop to check her assignments. Watching the videos would require the least conscious effort and a definite investment of time, so she reached across her curtains not caring as she toppled dog after cat plush to snatch up her water bottle, and got to work on AP Politics. Video one. Thirty eight minutes, fourteen seconds.  Friday, January 20th, 2041, the inauguration of president number fifty-three.  <hannah> thank you everyone :)<hannah> gio dont worry its chill<eliana> I’m about to do a flight sim lol but Hannah take it easy. Everyone loves you, you know? We all do, at least, and more than us. Even if you get into trouble we’ll suffer it with you so it’s fine sksksk<elly> Yeah stay strong I love you<eleanor> yesss we love you i love you This inauguration speech was important because it was a week after a freak heatwave.  <hannah> ur all too kind…<elly> Not kind enough<elly> Given how happy you make everyone it’s like<elly> Nobody nobody can suffer seeing you sad you don’t deserve it not at all Four heart reacts in an instant. Climate change was such a weird topic to her in 2067, when you had infinite clean energy. It wasn’t really gone, but it felt more like history than politics, especially in her insulated, air-conditioned little corner of America. Back in the distant year of 2040, it was a little more serious. <nora> oh hannah do you need help i love you! Okay, okay, maybe more than a little, but this was still the boring part of history with travail and lots of little changes and nothing really cool happening. Not like she liked the ‘cool’ part of history either. She lived happily in the present. <hannah> thank you no darling its fine! Elly’s message had gotten up to seven. By the end of the day, it’d probably have twenty-eight, with a few holdout besties on holiday or whatever. The actual speech itself was so boring, compared to the dissonant heatstroke in so many cities a few days before, compared to what happened next. Well done on the detente with Russia, she guessed? And part of the point, her teacher had said, was that the actual speech contained little mention of rebuilding the EPA, of successfully establishing a global climate policy to break the current situation of a few green countries shifting emissions onto so many others, of lithium and uranium miners not up to the heat or up to the metal, that its main focus was foreign policy achieved by the previous administration of the same party, that its domestic policy was basically cultural, a promise to preserve the American way of life. Hannah sighed. She gripped her pillow. She just knew when things would get interesting. He said something. Then he said or the other. He spoke so quietly. How was she supposed to find meaning in this? <vittoria> Theres so many dark things in this world<vittoria> But you do<vittoria> Remain our light in the eternal darkness Oh, oh, it wasn’t just her apathy, was it. Where her teacher saw history, Hannah saw whispering, whispering, whispering, until the unlucky host unleashed whatever he was carrying.  He split thought. What potential had spilled out, about twenty-seven years ago? That damned bird. Hannah was lucky enough to be one of maybe ten thousand rank 7s out of ten billion people, ten thousand potential city-killers-cum-rulers out of ninety-nine hundred nine million potential safe espers. She was unlucky to be nowhere near the Kisaragi barrier, where your judgment became everyone’s justice, where your sun shined even for the worst of sinners, where you could rewrite every ideal and drive everyone to your rhythm through the clanging and the drum beats of every broken station or point of connection. Unlucky? Well, there was that creep from the Second City whose parents were her parents' friends, Carmen Brackash, who was pretty close to touching it if further from eternity away from breaking through it. When she was there she was so many nightmares, when she wasn’t she was… She could be her in an instant. She could never be her, not in a million years, but if that thing broke eternity then there might be some problems. She was so glad for it, glad her cute self would remain intact in Indianapolis. What Hannah wasn’t so glad for was being in a dead spot of talent exceptional enough to notice every part of an altered video and not exceptional enough to bear it, not at all. She picked up one of many fluffy white pillows and held fast to it. The sun went out but it all was still visible through the grey. A silent screech. Since it’s being recorded, reality bifurcates, but she looked and remembered that if you were there in reality, it and you picked up space without integers, and God herself forbid you tried to construct real numbers. That was an impossibility beyond comprehension, not in the fake way where you’d go so stir-crazy that had been weighing on everyone’s imaginations for at least a hundred years but in the real way where it was so foreign that we down down down here couldn’t even attempt to describe it. You could imagine a world where the holy law of the excluded middle, Boolean logic, all statements were either true or they were false, either existed or didn’t, you could attempt to imagine one where the law of excluded middle [third option]ed or [forth option]ed or [seventeen root twoth option]ed, but what about one where the law of the excluded middle Even a after grasping that , she retched blood and nothing. It literally couldn’t get worse, given that shard couldn’t be ordered or compared to anything or whatever. Hannah’s name still existed, and who was this chump, president for three years and you still couldn’t find his name? Hannah was so lucky, she thought. So lucky, also, that her family’s cleaners would take care of all the soiled sheets and dirty laundry, so she kept watching. Perfect grades meant a perfect image. Since it’s being recorded, it split into analogue horror and digital terror. An attack against humanity’s esteem and grace, the first of three. The Condor Raid against America and Bylight or Баисвет against China through Russia, crippling the Janus of worldpower, Starfall against the Middle East and the Horn of Africa, breaking the cradle, defiling the grave. You were being reviewed by, judged byIt judged, and on review it concluded What could you recover from? Her knowledge of the living sciences became so precise. Her casual knowledge of the pox as merely something that she was glad was kept away from her behind the spiked fences became formal knowledge of orthopoxes becoming attached to GAGs (she didn’t have enough of them, she was on a diet, she kept austere from sugar even though she was super sweet) as they ran blankets across the continent to unveil the empty and perfectly prepared Garden of Eden until the Caribbean ran incarnadine, don’t you remember? Don’t you regret it? Can’t you reverse it? Why are you discontent, after what you’ve claimed for freedom? Why do you hate your own country? It clothed and fed and birthed you. Maybe, just maybe, you didn’t believe you fought fight for freedom but when you looked at basic economics on a world scale you actually really fought honestly ardently loyally to keep prices down, amenities, driving, plastic, oil, and when you got back they chewed up all of your values. You swore an oath to your country, but you lost it on the world map or (this thing isn’t natural…) you lost it across infinity. What did you decide to do after? There are many answers, nobody will like all of them, so all of them (no matter how just, no matter graceful) revealed a crack, a crack that as Hannah saw had already been ripped over, but for our purposes we can rip over further and What do you enjoy? It scried through all of your culture, American! It needed to wanted to had to understand you. It’s very judgmental, though, so it went straight for your death drive desire. In an instant it had written a million movie reviews for its own pleasure, it had evaluated all of the best streaming series, it had trailed all the airports and snatched up all of the popular books, left its dirty feathers and rendered takeoff impossible. It had so many opinions, you had so many opinions, you spoke freely and wanted to freely infringe on others. You ate and desired, you censored and spoke only ONE language in God’s Republic so when you described all of your machines and industry and entryway it was ‘ça respire, ça chauffe, ça mange. ça, ça’ scribbled over with static. There were still cracks here, but they were less obvious, but they could still be used. Division, unification, what was your America, why did you enjoy it? You live and breath it, you see and hear it, your assembly of people standing and saluting the flag. It collapses into endless breathing meat on the earth. It splits into a forest reflected by the lake reflected by the sky [mind reflected by the river reflected by the ocean] [childhood reflected by the river reflected by the lake] and when you put two mirrors together you get undulation, upside-down downside-up upside-down FOREVER, and when you follow it up until your limbs stretch into snakes and the friction burns you and your body chars and you get so many fractionated moments, everyone’s daily activities and glances at happiness. If you followed this path so loyally you would stretch into infinity. Hannah’s cute self had to stay intact, stay in Indianapolis and Indianapolis. She fell home through the mirrors, through the dust. No, no, you’re not understanding, it wasn’t an infohazard that asked you loaded questions of the type Hannah advised you absolutely shouldn’t bring up at a party, it was a myriad of them she perceived in this instant, little questions that every American with mass media would have thought about at least once but assembled into one and linked into impossibilities by the very first anomaly or extrasensory phenomenon such that if you recorded a few you’d feel a ringing dissonance and maybe a new few senses but if you were of such a talent that your mind began to chase them all down automatically, it’d suffer. The former was worse than the latter, but poor Hannah, poor poor Hannah. Wait, no her mind was drifting, she hadn’t even gotten to the main event. No, no, you’re not understanding, it wasn’t just many infohazards, it was that damned bird which scorched the earth of every evil spirit, working in so many different ways from its birthplace in s/D.C./The Villages/ to Brighton Beach, where unwisely the National and Real Guard lanced it down, where then it began to build its zone and splutter out smoke that was gamma ultraviolet or delta ultrablue, incorrect contact and illegal touchdown, fulls and empties whose purpose no ape could understand if any recognisable one had ever existed, when then one corpse remained to build a nest, when then New York had to deal with its chicks, babes and feathers by looking with the right eye and firing to destroy all things with the left hand path up until the rest of the country was done hunting the rest of the thing down, it having become impossible to fly across America and difficult to run a train anywhere and everywhere, nobody prepared for what was one of three. Hannah already knew all of that, ehehe. Or something. Witnessing it for fakes just brought the memories back and made them more vivid. She stopped the video, checked her phone. She had principles. She wanted to be loved, so she should only demand love from those willing to give it, which meant no psy-cheating, and usually that was easy but her careless idiot politics teacher, unawakened, definitely living mostly in the mundane world like she did, insisted that everyone watched the video, that her pretty much max rank meant she could bare anomalous media more easily which was true for most things so she believed it, believed that because she was better than everyone else that she could rush all her work and do perfectly, which was true in most cases, but here… She closed her laptop with her left hand. Her phone pinged. They judged, and during their review they concluded <penance> I’m on your windowsill. Of course something weird would happen. A video of a rank 13 meant rank 13 creepiness. She got up, white vest stained rust brown with blood, opened her window. Someone was laying across her windowsill, all too calm considering the dirt tracking across the wide bottoms of their black trousers, their white ankle socks or their pale ankles. A supermodel? No, she looked over their chest, wearing some dollarstore or something grey tracksuit and a worse grey t-shirt. But, still! She couldn’t help but admire their pretty auburn hair that glowed amber, so so amber as today’s harsh sun trickled across it, invigorated it. Her desires linked with something above her stature, like, like, she, uh, he, uhh, they could love you, do you understand that?. She shut that down. “You’re calling yourself Penance? I don’t need to repent for anything, do I? I’m not one to ask for forgiveness.” “I’m an atheist,” and they said that front of Hannah, like, really? “it’s just what I’m called. I’m just fond of Puritan names. It fits perfectly, doesn’t it? It’s just a coincidence, though.” “Really.” She stared them down. Their face was nice but indiscriminate, if she found them in a crowd she would lose them..  “Everything ever is a coincidence, in my opinion.” They paused. “What were you watching? My head hurts.” “There’s no way you could have seen it through the window. Like, I would have noticed you peeping through the window, for one, the blinds were shut, for two, how did you even get here?” “With [Judgment], I can see hidden things clearly. With the [Grey], I can go through any empty space.” “If your power is judgment, what’s your problem with the awful bird?” “I’m nothing like the… Condor Raid! That thing made my head go—” “How do you know what it’s—” and she caught her words as she remembered that the Condor Raid’s name was bestowed by not any specific human,  “okay, so what do I need to be judged for?” “The [Lady] says it’s because of the illicit control you take over others, but personally I think your wealth is filthy.” “I see. I’m not going to listen. Do you want to jump, or should I push you?” This sounded like a threat, but she didn’t mean it that way. If they could get onto her windowsill without falling off, they would probably be fine. “I’m not going to budge.” Hannah considered actually pushing them, but she stared blankly at them instead. “Okay, well, I don’t do anything illicitly. I just take the like people have for me and I increase it. I like being liked, people like liking people, they like liking others back, if it scares people they can see it coming from a mile away. It’s not taking away people’s free will anymore than the law or gravity does.” “So that’s how you think of it.” “Is there some other way I’m supposed to think about it?” “You override others’ light.” “I don’t. I draw it out.” “You steal it away and make it yours.” “It’s still there. Hasn’t anyone told you you can’t win someone over via debate?” “I told the [Lady] that, actually. She’s pretty lazy, though. She doesn’t think anything through.” “Perhaps you should change mistresses, then.” “No!” “Why not? I’m so radiant, even when I’m covered in my own filth.” “I would never serve anyone rich enough to afford air-conditioning.” “But, like, what’s wrong with being able to afford air-conditioning. And, if you’re here you could at least help me not fail maths…” “I couldn’t, actually. I’d accelerate your failure. But failing classes doesn’t actually matter. How old even are you?” “Seventeen.” “Okay, seventeen. I’m nineteen, I failed maths, I’m basically fine now.” “You’re like a window to window preacher, you’re definitely not fine! You won’t even explain your doctrine simply and clearly.” “I don’t have a doctrine.” “Mhm?” “I mean, not like a codified one. I have a few simple maxims, but they’re secret. It’s just…” “Well?” “One day, your light will blot out all others and scorch the Earth. If it’s not while you bear it, it’s when someone takes it from you for being thoughtless, inconsiderate, impatient, whatever.” “I see.” “Do you?” “No. I’m going to treat this like a fever dream.” She didn’t even tell her friends about it, not, not yet. She closed the blinds and her princess curtains and threw herself back into her bloodied bed. Missing a bunch of homework would be fine. She just had to believe her clique. Everyone loved her. She was everyone’s light. Dazed from watching the birth or rebirth of anomalies, and from all the heat, she fell back to sleep. kriemhild hi i havent really been having good luck writing anything but this little section flowed and i thought i might as well finally get something out there. i havent gotten anything out there in ages... you can probably see all of the little markings of a first draft but ive passed them off as part of a fever dream mood lol (its been so hot lately...). you can also see the markings of my lack of creativity, but i have an excuse, anomalies are like little mirrors into other or unrealities. maybe you should play spot the reference. it's not that hard i think if you liked this you may want to check out Far Off Unhappy Things, a fantasy web serial by one of my friends. (isnt it good to be a shill for your besties? what would hannah do?) what is it about? i havent actually figured that out yet either but it has relationships between girls that may not be perfectly comfortable as they first seem, so ...and where is Heaven, anyway?

——Birth of Dark—— “He is supreme. He is almighty. He is a piece of shit. He is the Evil Lord Cassiel.” -Lailah, A Guardian Angel of Morael ◈◈◈ Blood. Maybe it was the colour. Or the smell. But seeing it for the first time, he felt something eerie awakening within him. “Shit!” Cassiel huffed. His neck felt straitened. “Shit. Shit. Shit.” The black mace fell from his hand as his grip loosened. The more he observed the boy bleeding beneath him, the more his breathing harshened. The cave was damp and dark, but he could see vividly. He’d sinned, and he realized it. The more he looked. The more he got sunk into reflection—rumination. How had it started? He could not remember. Getting into fights for silly reasons was a day-to-day activity for him. But today, what happened? That’s when, in midair, words materialized themselves in front of his eyes. ❖You have tainted the holy ground of Morael with blood and violence.❖ His heart raced. ❖You have been marked as a Subject.❖ ❖Should humans be allowed to wield the power once withheld by the Gods? ❖ ❖What of the consequences should they retain such might?❖ ❖You shall provide the answers.❖ “What?” he winced. ◈◈◈ “I’ve no desire for war.. or peace.” -Cassiel Dread Klus, the Evil Lord ◈◈◈ Profile#0 Born: Jan 1, 0001 in Morael, Redsphere. Codename: Dark ▪ Birth Name: ####### Titles: Lord of the Demonic Syndicate | Regressor | Lifeless Reaper | Cannibal | ###### | ###### Number of Experienced Regression(NER): ## Current Age(After Regression): 27 ▪ Total Age: #### Former Spouses: Lailah, Siouxsie Wright, Zephyr Morgan, Mayze Barclay, Ulsa Soulton, Layre Creighton, Eldia Bloodworth Present Spouse: Elaine Shade —Traits— Eyes: Black ▪ Hair: Ebony ▪ Height: 6’’3’ ▪ Weight: 190 pounds Level: ## Skills: ####### | ####### | ####### | ####### ◈◈◈ The majority of a person’s life is spent chasing things like money, women, fame, etc. I’m not one of those people. At least I don’t believe myself to be. I also do not think of myself as special or unique. But the circumstances I was raised under were not just unique; they were—exceptional. Let’s start from the beginning, shall we? When it all started. When I once poured my heart into a piece of paper. ◈◈◈ —Regressor: Prologue— The Note “‘Why must I struggle?’ Simplicity should be the way of life. In fact, for most, it would be the ideal way of life. Problems are a curse. The fear that one’s day might not go as planned is imminent. How easy would it be if kids could simply go to the class, make friends, maybe meet a girl and enjoy their day? But life’s unpredictable. Maybe you do meet a person, but he turns out to be impulsive. And now you are on the bathroom floor with most of your bones broken. Maybe you do meet a girl, but it turns out other boys are interested in her. And now, in front of her, you’re on the floor with your mouth bleeding. Fear breeds anxiety. So, you do nothing. You detach yourself. You remain in a corner. You meet with no one. You talk with no one. But you still come to school. Why? Because you must not let your parents know your situation in your class. Still, nothing’s solved. You still fear. You fear that while eating lunch, one kid might come up and smash your head on the table. You fear while walking, you might bump into someone and offend them. You fear and fear until it consumes you. And it keeps on consuming you till it morphs. Morphs into something worse. Hatred. But not towards the bullies or the girl. But towards yourself. Towards your own weakness. In the end, you realize just how much you hate yourself. The realization then forces you to take action. You now have a choice. End it all. Kill yourself. Let everything end. Be released from it all. So, you take a knife and point it towards your wrist. But you cannot do it. You make excuses. You think of your parents. You try to conjure up that one reason to live. But nothing. You cannot do it. Then, you understand why. You have always feared but never taken any action. A coward, you call yourself. You realize you do not even have the gut to kill yourself. You become self-aware that the only thing you will ever do is fear, no matter the circumstance. You can neither kill yourself nor change yourself. But then….the clouds fade. Your vision becomes clear. You can tell now. What is it that you want? All your life, what you have strived for. Now, you start to question your awareness. The question in your mind again starts to morph. “When did I ever truly strive for change?”_____ ◈◈◈ Life#1 ◈◈◈ “‘When did I ever truly strive for change?’ Quite dramatic for a boy your age. You’re 14, right, Alistair?” It was dramatic indeed. But I was a 14-year immature boy who barely knew anything. Expressing your feelings can be a good thing, especially with your friends or family. But, what if you had no friends and the relation with your parents was a bit awkward. Well, I did what any archetypal loner would do. I wrote on a piece of paper. It felt good. But my luck was shitty; I expressed myself in the wrong place at the wrong time. That’s how I met the man who just asked me that question. Dr Winmore. I still do not know his full name even after all these years. At that time, he was hired as a juvenile counsellor. He even looked like one typical therapist with his square glasses and oiled black hair. To the young me, he looked like a mystery. But so did I to him. I had sparked an interest. He read my note in front of me while sitting behind a table across from me. I sat there with my arms cuffed. Winmore read the note maybe twice or thrice. After that, he placed the sheets on the desk in front. His eyes fell towards the cuffed boy, me, seated opposite him. From his view, I must have looked like a deranged young boy who continually used his left arm to scratch his right arm. The scratch marks had started to redden, and little blood had begun to surface. I remember our gazes had met more than once that day. And my eyes didn’t emit a hint of nervousness or anxiety. In fact, they looked thoughtless, dead, and observant. So, he must have wondered why did I do it? Why was I inflicting self-harm? “Here’s what they don’t teach you in school,” he said after a pause, “When a child your age commits a crime, he gets sent into juvenile. But the thing is, if he shows potential to one day awaken an unnatural skill, he’s hanged no matter the age.” He leaned back. “You see, the ones in the high seat are very conscious about the rising numbers of people who wield supernatural abilities. And you, Alistair, show high potential.” I knew that even before he informed it. After all, I was aware of the consequences when I decided to do what I did. But what I didn’t know was his plans. And what he did to kids like me. Winmore placed two sheets on the desk near me and one pen in the middle. “Now, here are your options.” He gestured using his arms. “If you sign the sheet on the left. You get hanged. You wrote that you lacked the gut to kill yourself in your diary. Well, good for you. The government will do that for you.” His lips curled into a smile. “But if you sign the sheet on the right, you’ll be sent in a hellhole. A hellhole that I crafted. On the surface, I’m might look like a typical therapist for juveniles, but I run quite an organization, you see. There you might end up dying in the worst way possible or living in the worst circumstances possible. The choice is yours.” What do you think I did? What would you have done? I signed the sheet on the right. Why? To understand that, you would first have to understand my story. ◈◈◈ —Regressor: Initialization— ◈◈◈ The sunlight crept through the forest. “Run shitheads!” A man shouted. He was young, tall, and muscular. In the intense heat, he wore black leather pants and a black t-shirt. His green eyes echoed with the sunlight, giving his face a very handsome look. That attractive man wasn’t me. He was the trainer. I was one of the kids huffing in the forest. “Damn it. Damn it.” I murmured and huffed intensely. From my toes to my back, everything ached, yet I ran. Why? I asked myself. Was it the persuasive tone of that man, or was it because I was in the phase of life where stupid decisions seemed like the right choice to take that I decided to sign the sheet on the right. Running wasn’t easy. The ground was no smooth land. Pebbles, broken branches, bones were spread across. My feet were bleeding. But so were the ones of the kids running beside me. If they had not stopped, then how could I? Gods know how many holes had been ruptured in my feet. My eyesight had also started to get blurry. But I forced my eyes open. I was marching through a forest, not an open ground. Obstacles that needed to be avoided were everywhere, such as trees or bushes. And losing sight of the trainer would mean getting lost in this forest, aka imminent death. So, I followed. After 3 hours, some kids lost their pace in front of me, and some fell unconscious. But I kept on moving forward. After 5 hours, the trainer crossed the white line. It was the line that separated the forest from the tunnel gates. Soon after, other kids too crossed it, and so did I. The other side of the line had a cemented floor, and after that were colossal metallic gates. I fell on my knees on the floor and started gasping for air. Then, my gaze fell towards the trainer, who observed the stopwatch facing the forest. After a while, I heard a click from the watch. The white line started to morph into Red, and a blaze of fire formed a wall around the line. This was my 3rd time seeing it form, yet it still amazed me. Magic, I thought. The kids who had failed to cross the white line would now get stuck in the forest. There they would likely starve to death or get eaten by monsters. I looked around to see our numbers. On the first day, there were over 10,000 kids, by my estimation: the second, 1000, and now about 900 to 950. Barely 50-100 fell behind. A frustrating matter. Others were growing too. I looked towards the firewall. It was semi-transparent, so I could see the kids crying on the other side. My heartbeat increased. I feared that I would too fall behind and end up like them. Clunk! The metallic door opened after a while. All of us were set up in a line and guided inside by soldiers carrying semi-machine guns. The inside was dark, with only one blue LED on the ceiling that pointed directions periodically. At the end of the tunnel, another thick metallic door opened. The soldiers halted while the rest of the kids and I entered. This was the most dangerous yet most crucial part of the day. Once all 900 of the kids entered inside, the metallic door closed. We were now all in a white room. Its length is at least 200 meters and width about 100 meters. Even if I look up, I can barely see the ceiling. “It’s mine,” “No, it’s mine,” “Argh!” It started—the chaos. In the centre of the room, there are three long desks. Atop the 1st are piles of hard bread which we can eat as food, atop the second, milk bottles. And on the last, bandages. I marched near the tables. I had no intention to hurry like the others. My legs were already killing me. Obtaining food was vital. I do not know how many pieces of bread are placed on the table. But from what I observed yesterday, less than half of the kids went to sleep with a full stomach. When I arrived near the table, there were still some piles of bread and milk bottles remaining. I took around five pieces of hard bread and three bottles of milk. That would be enough for the night. There was no limit on how many you could take. So, long as you could take it. Others fought intensely over food. And one day, I would have to fight too. But not right now. No one blocked my way or disturbed me because of the red band on my right arm. We all wore the same dress— a blue t-shirt, a grey jumper, and soft grey trousers. But the thing that separated us was the coloured band on our right arm. On the first day, all of us were given bands based on the severity of the crimes we committed. Yellow for burglary or minor offences. Green for attempted murder or rape. Purple for man-slaughter. And red for multiple murders. Many of the kids were my age, and green and yellow was the most common band. After all, how many 14-years-old would actually commit murder? I have only seen about 20 people with a red band, including me. At first, I didn’t make much of it, but it did give me a minor advantage. Others feared me. After all, Red meant murder, and people are afraid to mess with murderers. In truth, I’m not very strong. Yes, I killed five people. But I won not because I was strong, but simply because I was smart. You do not need to be physically stronger to kill someone; given the right circumstances and meticulous planning, even a skinny man can kill a person 5-6 times his weight. My height is average, so is my body build. I’ve been bullied since young, so at least I have high endurance. I can take hits. But lack any form of combat experience. Right now, no one has attacked me. But if the others get desperate, they won’t see who they are attacking. They will go after anyone with food. I gulped. In a cage surrounded by starving beasts. How long until I’m exposed? IsaacSAlbert Note: The storyline of the synopsis will start after the first arc, "Birth of Dark"

The cool wind rushed through Valex’s ears as she plummeted through the sky, her eyes squinted to allow her to see. Contrary to what one would expect of a person caught in freefall, she did not panic. She instead felt euphoria flood through her body, a transcendent joy as she imagined that this must be what it was like to fly. As the wind rushed past her face, ice-cold in its embrace, she curled her body and slowly began to spin.   All around her was a pure blue, open sky. There wasn’t a cloud in sight, and the sun shone brightly over a vast plain, where a light breeze blew, ruffling the sparse trees and high grass. Though she could not see them, she imagined that there was a multitude of small animals scurrying down there somewhere, unmindful of the elven woman falling towards the ground at an alarming speed.   She’d enjoyed doing this ever since she was a child. She first discovered the joy of freefall in her home of Jyrok, where the sheer coastal cliffs were thousands of feet high, and a magical force created a strong updraft, allowing her to float for hours on end, feeling the force of the wind hold her safely as she experienced the joy of unassisted flight.   But, she reminded herself as she saw a large shadow flit upwards past her and the ground racing up to meet her, this was not Jyrok. Nor was she a little girl anymore. Sighing to herself, she straightened her limbs once again and stopped spinning. Kiora! The thought was almost shouted in her mind as the ground raced up to catch her. She sensed, rather than saw, the shadow turn round and dive towards her.    Less than a hundred meters from the ground, she felt a sudden jarring as she landed on the back of her lifelong companion, Kiora. The black dragon flared her wings out, ending their plummet with a gentle glide, the very tips of her wings just brushing the tall grass as she curved upwards, beginning once again, to ascend. The dragon showed no sign of displeasure at how close she had caught her rider but turned her head to look back at Valex with her bright violet eyes, letting out a low growl of pleasure to see her friend safe.   Valex leaned forward and patted Kiora’s head, feeling the warm black scales under her hand. “Good catch, Kiora! I knew I could count on you!” Kiora shook her head in pleasure, reminding Valex of a dog shedding water, which elicited a high-pitched laugh from the elf. She continued patting Kiora, rubbing behind the short horns in the way she knew the dragon enjoyed. “Alright friend, let’s rejoin our teammates.”   Kiora obliged, jumping further higher with each beat of her powerful wings. Together, they were masters of the sky, answerable to no Lord or King, free to do as they pleased. Or so it felt, but Valex knew better. She was on a mission, and she had broken protocol with her sudden jump off the dragon’s back. Back when she was still in training, her mentor had always scolded her for such antics, but she knew the others didn’t mind. They were riders themselves, and so understood her joy in flight, and the powerful bond between rider and dragon.   As she rose to meet her two compatriots, they wore looks of a resigned patience, even slight amusement. They shook their heads as she came level with them, and the older of the two, Trian, shouted above the wind at her.   “One of these days, you might break your neck doing that Valex. Kiora isn’t perfect, you know.”   Valex rolled her eyes in mock horror and called back. “Oh, but of course, I forgot you were riding Bahamut, the only perfect dragon in the world.” It was an intentional dig at the sense of pride each Dragon Acolyte felt when regarding their draconic mounts. His brief scowl, which he tried very hard to conceal, made her laugh once more.   Truth be told, she understood very well how much he admired and cared for his friend, Korath. The red dragon was also the oldest of his companions and was a stickler for rules. Sure enough, Korath’s yellow eye turned to behold Valex, where she sat atop Kiora, a mischievous grin stretching from ear to ear.   How many times do I have to tell you to stick to the mission, young Valex? Leisure is not a luxury we have at the moment.   Kiora snorted in faint annoyance but quieted down as Valex patted her once again. Then she turned to regard Korath with her grin still firmly in place.   If I listened to every order you gave me, I’d never have any time for leisure.   The red dragon snorted in his turn. If you listened to me at all, you’d be a better soldier for it.   She laughed at him. Are you saying that I’m not a good enough soldier already? The thought was heavy with her amusement, and Korath scowled, in so far as a dragon is capable of scowling.   You have skills, little one. There is no denying that. If only you had some discipline.   The young monk on Trian’s other side laughed aloud. “No amount of discipline will improve her skill. She’s already clumsy as it is.”   Valex rolled her eyes at him. “Says you, Ehran Stonefoot.” It was a nickname she’d discovered for him during their training days when he would trip over every imaginable object in his way.   Ehran flushed. It was still a sore spot to him, even though it happened over three years ago. He retorted at once. “Tough talk for someone who barely scraped a passable dive. That barely looked like three hundred meters from the ground.”   Now Valex was offended for real. “It was under a hundred! And what would you know? You’ve yet to beat me in a dive. Maybe you’ll trip over the enemy today, and have a proper fall.”   Ehran opened his mouth to reply furiously, but Trian held up a hand, the look on his face saying all too plainly that he was losing patience. The two younger riders fell silent at once, Ehran fuming silently, and Valex smirking. Then she followed Trian’s gaze to see what he was looking at, and her smirk faded quickly.   Down on the plains below them, a forest stood, a darker blot of green against the smooth landscape. Just emerging from the trees was a body of troops. There looked to be about fifty of them, and more were coming out. Once they were in full view, Trian looked to Valex with his eyebrow raised. She had the sharpest eyes out of all of them.   “How many are there Valex? What’s their weaponry looking like?”   Valex shook her head, gathering her focus and peering down at the group of armed men thousands of feet below her. At this distance, they looked like specks.   Allow me, Kiora’s voice sounded in her head. She opened her mind to Kiora’s influence and felt her senses sharpen. The sound of the wind faded away as she zoned in on their targets down below. It was an ability she had learned just over a year ago when her bond with Kora had reached another level of strength. She could now, with a bit of effort, look at the world around her as if she had her friend’s senses. Her ability to see, smell, and hear all skyrocketed, and reached such a finely honed edge that she could even count blades of grass on the surface below.   When she’d first tried this, she’d become nauseous. A dragon saw, smelled, and heard this way for all of its life, but it was a shocking new experience for her. Even as an elf, her senses were nowhere near this sharp. Having everything suddenly magnified had overloaded her senses, and she’d fallen unconscious. Those days were far behind her now. It was still a strain to share senses with Kiora, but she was more accustomed.   Her sharpened eyes switched between the figures below with a rapid pace, as she noted their numbers and equipment. She frowned slightly as she spotted two large siege engines that were being dragged behind stocky horses. It seemed that their intel had been on the mark, she thought. She pulled away from her connection to Kiora and turned back to Trian.   “Seventy-eight men, including one commander, and four officers.” She began to reel off. She’d noticed the different outfits the five men wore, marking them as a higher rank. One had exceptionally fine armor, which made her think he was the nominal leader of the force. “They have a ballista and a trebuchet. Looks like the trebuchet is rigged to throw nets, not boulders.”   Trian rubbed his chin thoughtfully. Valex and Ehran could pretty much guess at the thoughts running through his mind. The ballista and trebuchet were serious threats. They could dodge the ballista easily enough if they kept track of where it was, but the net hurler was a different story. If that threw a net, it could easily entangle any one of the dragons and bring it down. He nodded to himself and spoke.   “Very well. We’ll go in fast, land in the middle. That should make them less likely to use the siege weapons.” He turned to face Ehran. “Ehran, you dive first and strafe. Give it two passes, no more, then land. That should give us enough time to catch up and engage.”   Ehran nodded his understanding. It was a fairly standard method of engagement, one that they’d practiced countless times during training, and later on their missions. He pulled his facemask up to protect his eyes from the wind and the glare from his impending attack as Trian turned back to Valex.   “I’ll land before you, Valex. Circle for a bit on Kiora there to draw their fire. Try to get them to fire the siege weapons and give us a bit more time. Once that’s done, land, and support us.”   Valex nodded in her turn and pulled her facemask up higher. These face masks were made of thick fabric, and covered every inch of the face except the eyes and mouth. They were matte black and served three main purposes. The primary purpose, used most often by Ehran, was to protect from the glare of a dragon’s breath, and any other non-magical blinding effect. They were also decorated with the insignia of their unit, detailed embroidery of dragon’s fangs, bared to strike. It had a vaguely fiendish look to it. Finally, they protected their identities. When they weren’t on a mission, the members of Valex’s unit tried their best to live normal lives, which would be complicated if they were to be recognized. Only especially famous riders did that. Or glory hogs, Valex thought to herself.   Ehran patted his own dragon’s neck and hopped up so that he was crouching on it’s back. “Thirty seconds, Shera!”   The silver dragon growled agreement and watched as her rider and friend plummeted down. Despite her teasing, Valex admired his grace as he fell. He kept his arms locked to his side, preventing himself from spinning as he dropped like a rock. When he was about two hundred meters from the ground, his outline glowed red suddenly, and two large silver wings sprouted from his back.   When they had started training, there were three different schools for them to choose from. Dragon’s Aspect, the school that Ehran had chosen, had focused on taking on different attributes of a dragon. By the time that Ehran had completed his training, he could sprout wings and breathe fire like a dragon. He could also see like a dragon permanently and was more accustomed to the feeling than Valex was.   Trian had chosen the Dragon’s Fury school. It was a combat-heavy class, which taught its students to channel raw draconic power through their bodies. This allowed them to gain hard scales, and strike with massive strength.    Valex meanwhile, had been interested in the Dragon’s Will school. Her training was just as harsh as the others, though it featured very little combat. Pupils of the Dragon’s Will school focused on establishing a deeper connection with their dragon, to infuse their magic capabilities with the power of their dragon companions. Valex could share Kiora’s senses, speak with all the force and charisma of a dragon, and bind herself to Kiora for some fantastic abilities and survivability.   Ehran had come within range now, and even from this distance, they heard the dull roar he let loose, as flames erupted from his mouth. He flew down the line of men, spreading his terrible white flames as he passed.   “Let’s go, Valex!” Trian shouted, pulling his own mask into place. Both Kiora and Korath dove, pulling their wings in tight, dropping towards the ground like missiles. At the same elevation, just over a hundred meters, both dragons flared out their wings. Kiora darted to the left and began her circling path. Korath glided lower and opened his maw, letting loose a stream of fire that scattered the enemy. This also gave Trian clearance to land, which he did. He leaped off of Korath’s back, rolling to absorb the shock of landing amongst the group of startled and surprised soldiers just as Ehran streaked by, once again breathing destruction onto the ranks.   The young monk landed beside Trian and flared his wings out as he roared a challenge. Kiora circled around as Valex pulled a scroll from the saddle pack in front of her. She opened the rolled parchment with a flourish, and a ball of fire appeared in her hands. Below, Trian and Ehran dove at the enemy soldiers. The older warrior swatted the weaker men aside as his young companion darted around, punching and kicking. Ehran was a whirl of limbs and wings as he circled his ally, dealing with any threat that popped up where Trian could not see. Ehran’s sharp eyes missed nothing, and as he dashed back and forth, archers cried out in pain as they tried to fire and were stuck by the monk.   The few arrows that did get loosed before Ehran could deal with them skated off the scales that now grew over Trian’s body. Together, the two fighters held their position as the enemy swarmed. Valex noticed a group of mages towards the rear begin to charge a spell, their instincts catching up with the surprise attack. She hurled the fire in her hands at them. Kiora passed by close enough to allow her to heal Trian a bit, but had to pull up sharply as arrows flew dangerously close to her wings. She snapped her teeth at the archers and spat out a fireball, but was moving too quickly to aim accurately. Out of the corner of her eye, Valex saw the ballista swing to face her and fire.   Drop Kiora! She screamed in her head, and Kiora pulled her wings in, falling below the three-foot heavy projectile just in time. Valex actually felt the passage as it ripped through the air where they’d been only an instant before.   “Skyfiends!” One of the officers shouted as he drew one of his javelins from the tube on his back. It was the term that the armies of Attos had coined, and it was an apt word for how their unit would drop from the sky suddenly, wreak havoc, and disappear before reinforcements could arrive. Valex enjoyed the prestige that came with the nickname, and couldn’t help but feel pride at the reputation created by riders before her.   Vines shot from her hand to grapple the officer before he could react further, and with a sudden jerk, she sent him flying to the side for a few feet. She then unleashed a barrage of magical bolts amongst the mass of troops, hearing cries of pain as they struck. She paid for her lapse in concentration then, as a massive net, thrown by the trebuchet, flew out of nowhere and wrapped itself around her and Kiora. One of Kiora’s wings was trapped in the snare, and they crashed to the ground. Kiora slid for about thirty feet, trying desperately to get her feet to prevent herself from rolling and crushing Valex. When they finally came to a rest, Kiora angrily burnt the ropes away and slid off of Kiora’s back.   The small army, seeing one of the fierce dragons felled, surged forward for the kill before their enemy could recover. As Kiora was still struggling to her feet, Valex saw a dozen arrows fired at her and her companion and only just managed to summon a transparent shield of energy to deflect the arrows. Then, without warning, there were two yelling warriors in her face, swinging wickedly sharp blades as they pressed in, preventing her from retreating to the sides.   Valex ducked under the first blade, hastily drawing the long dagger in her belt, a plain weapon she had almost no experience with, and tried to parry the second strike. Unluckily, the warrior she faced was considerably more experienced and switched to a savage jab at the last second. Valex felt the blade slice into her arm and dimly heard Kiora roar in pain and fury behind her, as their deep connection caused some of the pain to transfer to her friend.   Suddenly, the ground between the two warriors and the archers was filled with bright white fire and the bone-chilling savagery of a dragon’s battle roar. Shera had landed at last, smaller than the other dragons, but still wickedly fast and fierce as she darted forward, her talons tearing through the archer’s armor as easily as if it were made of paper. The brief screams from the warriors were silenced as they fell, and the two warriors facing Valex had no more time to try their attack.   Kiora had gained her feet at last, and she moved quickly to defend Valex. Her black tail whipped around and slammed into the fighters. Though it lacked the deadly foot-long spikes that covered Korath’s tail, it still struck with brutal force, hard enough to break ribs. The two startled warriors flew to the side, skidding nearly ten feet before sliding to a stop, ominously still.   In the absence of Valex’s support and suppressing magic, Trian and Ehran were not faring well. Their aggressive entrance had given them a good foothold, but they were now hardpressed to defend themselves as a combination of blades, arrows, and magic rained down on them from all angles. Trian was breathing hard as he’d taken the brunt of the damage so far, and there were small cracks starting to show in the hard dragon scales that covered him. Ehran for his part had several small cuts, including one that was on his brow, half blinding him as a smooth sheet of blood flowing into his eyes. He swiped at his forehead quickly to try and clear it, but the action gave one of his enemies an opening.   Dragons they may have been, but Kiora and Shera were still young and inexperienced in battle. Shera tried to dart to Ehran’s aid but was too late as a spear flashed out, thrust deep into his uncovered ribs. The warrior who had wounded him let out a yell of triumph, an emotion short-lived as Shera’s jaws clamped down on his torso, cutting off all sounds as the dragon’s teeth crushed him. She swung claws and tail, temporarily clearing a space as Ehran fell to his knees, grimacing in pain and trying to staunch the flow of blood with his hands.   Valex rushed forward. As she ran, a small cloud of spikes formed in the air around her, surging forth and peppering the small horde as more vines flew out of Valex’s left hand, pulling Ehran to her, out of the range of more blades. Not wasting a second, she summoned more spikes to keep the enemies at bay, slowly dragging the young monk over to Kiora. As she fended off another volley of arrows with a transparent shield again, she became vaguely aware of Kiora shouting a warning in her head.   Get down, Valex! Too late, the elven woman looked up from Ehran to see the ballista, which she’d been sure had been disabled, fired another massive bolt, aimed straight for her.   The bolt would have struck her if not for Kiora. Just as the machine released the giant projectile, she surged forward to intercept the missile. She reached out with a talon-covered paw, but missed by inches, feeling the three-foot oak shaft, with a sharp metal tip, pierce her shoulder, sinking in nearly entirely. Much like how Kiora had felt Valex’s sword injury, the elf girl now cried out in pain as she felt the pain of the ballista bolt. Her vision blackened slightly, Valex let out a shout of fury, and lightning cascaded from her fingertips. Nearly a dozen tines of raw energy flashed out, splitting in every direction and striking the enemy around her.   The bolts of lightning did very little damage but stunned the fighters and mages around him for several seconds, which gave Valex time to toss Ehran onto Kiora’s back and grab one of the stout spikes on her friend’s spine. The black dragon leaped into the air, jumping clear just as Korath strafed over the nearly defeated horde, picking Trian up in his claws. Shera joined them as they rocketed into the sky, the silver dragon looking at Ehran with concern.   He’ll be fine. Valex assured her. She cast a quick healing magic, just enough to stop the bleeding. Ehran muttered his thanks, looking more alert. Seeing Shera circling below Kiora, he jumped onto her back, settling himself into the saddle there and crouching low.   Valex knew they had one more part to their mission, which must be completed if it were not to be considered a failure. With a sigh of resignation, she directed Kiora to veer back around, and dive towards the army once more, searching amongst the depleted mass of soldiers for their target. She spotted the enemy commander almost at once, and Kiora changed direction slightly, snatching the startled man up in her talons and returning to the sky with lightning speed. The man was unarmed, and let out a shout of shock.    Remembering the trebuchet that had brought Kora down, Valex turned back, pulling arcane energy together with the help of her companion. A glowing red bead appeared in her palm, then shot forward at high speeds. Right as it met the large siege instrument, a massive sphere of fire expanded, shattering the wood limbs of both massive weapons. She felt a surge of satisfaction in the knowledge that their retreat was ensured, and turned to face forward just as Kiora caught up with the others, the enemy commander still struggling pointlessly in her clutches. They landed at the base of a nearby mountain, where they were protected from view by a small grove of trees. Ehran slid off Shera’s back with a grunt and spread out on the smooth grass. Trian, who landed seconds after on Korath, climbed down as well, his expression exhausted but pleased. He offered a sympathetic smile and clapped Ehran on the shoulder as Kiora landed, at last, dropping the prisoner in her claws the last ten feet to the ground.    The man grunted again as he was dropped carelessly, but recovered quickly and began to scramble to his feet. Unfortunately, he was not as fast as Trian, who took a step forward and held the blade of his sword to the man’s throat, stopping further movement. Valex ignored them for the moment, and focused on removing the heavy wooden bolt from Kiora’s shoulder. The black dragon held perfectly still, holding her breath as the deadly projectile slid out and was tossed to the side. Then Valex, who had winced the entire time in shared pain, cast her most advanced healing spell, not stopping until Kiora’s flesh had been knit together, leaving no sign of the injury except the exhaustion that they both felt.   It was a short matter then to fully heal Ehran. Though the spear thrust had looked deadly, the wound was not that bad and had vanished in a matter of seconds. All the same, Ehran still heaved a sigh of relief and gratitude as the wound closed, his breathing becoming much easier. Then the two of them smiled at each other and walked over to where Trian held the enemy commander at bay.   Trian had waited patiently for them to join him, knowing that the injuries they’d sustained were more important matters. He nodded silent thanks as Valex tended to the one long shallow cut on his cheek. The scales on his body had absorbed the great majority of the damage though, and he was unharmed apart from the small slash.   Their injuries tended to, Trian his two young teammates gathered around their captive, who looked up fearfully at them, unable to see anything but their eyes, as their features were still concealed by the thick linen masks they wore. “What are Attos’ plans?” Trian snarled, his eyes flashing crimson.   “I do not know!” The man cried, his eyes wide and fearful. “I’m just a simple captain, leader of my small battalion! I do not know his plans!”   Trian stared down at his victim for several seconds, seeing the truth of the words in the man’s eyes. He snorted in disgust and sheathed his sword. He signaled to the other two to mount up once more, and it wasn’t long before the three dragons were up in the air, carrying their riders back home. The enemy commander watched them leave, keeping his eyes on them until they were no longer visible, until he was sure they were gone.   “Skyfiends.” He murmured quietly, as a combination of shock, exhaustion, and battle fatigue caused him to faint.

"Congratulations! You have been chosen!" I blink for a few seconds. I remember that I'm inside my room, ready to go to sleep. As soon as I close my eyes, I'm in this place. "Hello?" I look at the one calling me and see a floating eyeball looking at me. In front of me is a giant floating eyeball with a mouth and a hundred tentacles above the eyeball.   "Excuse me? I'm sorry, I'm confused." The eyeball in front of me waves its tail at me and says. "Don't worry about it. I know how you feel. Do you like some explanation?" "Please." "Very well. Do you know what Waifu Catalog is?" I blink for a few seconds and say. "The CYOA? The one about being a slaver?" "Well, we like to be called a business corporation." "And I like to be called Lord Supreme Pimp Lord 9000, but that doesn't mean I always get what I want." "Fair enough." The eyeball in front of me chuckles at my words. What kind of race is she, anyway? "Ah, I can answer that. I'm what you call a Beholder, do you know it?" "I heard it, I think. But where?" "DnD" "Ah, yeah! My brother loves tabletop games, especially RPGs." The Beholder in front of me smiles, and I shiver a little at the number of teeth inside her mouth. "Anyway, the reason why we take you to this place is because we want to hire you." "Oh?" I just graduated from college and am searching for a job. This is too convenient. "This might look suspicious, I admit that. However, you do not need to worry. You are here because our system matches your personality and behavior for the job." "Really?" "As you already know, Waifu Catalog is about getting goods from other universes where we will clone them to be sold to our client. We want someone who will not do anything to the goods even though they know what they are doing is wrong." "So you want a psychopath and sociopath." "Well, not really. We are leaning more toward someone who is apathetic." "Am I apathetic?" "You don't really care about others. You feel bad when you see a car crash into another car, but you will not do anything about it. That is what we need. Too many people we recruit are hot-headed sociopaths and die before they can pay their debt to the company." "So what do you want from me?" "We want someone who will not do anything reckless. Too many agents are too fast and too loose. Binding people left and right without care. They did not think that their action would gather the suspicion of others. Because of this, they get killed by the powerful people of that world. What we want is someone who knows how to lay low and get the goods without alerting the powerful people of the world you will be placed in." "I see. What do I get if I join your company? And what is my job?" "Sure!" A small stack of paper appears in front of me. I take the paper and start to read them. "The company wants you as our agent. However, we don't need a binding agent. We want a troubleshooting agent. We want you to go from world to world to fix the mess our agents make in that world or prepare that world for our next agent." I take another piece of paper and read them. "We cannot give you many starting points like the binding agent. However, you will be given a good sum of points to spend at every start of the mission, and we'll even throw in a binding tool where you can bind Waifu or Husbando to accompany you and maybe sell to us." I take another paper from the table and read it. "You will be paid ten thousand USD monthly if you work with us. You can retire after you complete five missions. If you die, your family will be taken care of and we will give them a thousand USD monthly for seventy years." I take the last paper from the table. "For every mission completed, you will be given a month of vacation to spend your time in your world or the hub world, where you can spend your points in our multiverse market. The last option is to spend ten points visiting one of our vacation planets. All of this you can get if you sign with us. However, I need to tell you that your job will be dangerous. You will kill humans and other races in your job." I put the paper away and said. "This contract is too good to be true." If what I read is true, what she says is the truth. The contract is what she said, and I get even more suspicious. "We did not want to make things too complicated. The life of a troubleshooting agent is harsh, so we'll give you the best. We will lend you the best tools to complete your mission if you want them for free. As long as you did not destroy them, we will not ask for payment." "That means there is a high chance I will die on the mission." "Yes." I look at her in shock and say. "You will not sugarcoat it?" "Why should we do that? Lying is a bad thing in the company, especially for our troubleshooting agent. So? Do you want to join?" I think for a few seconds and nod. "Very well. I'm in." My life is boring. I want some kind of spice in my life, and this is a perfect opportunity for me. I'm afraid of death, but the chance of adventure lures me in. "Perfect! Please sign the paper." She gives me a pen. I take it and sign the paper. She takes the paper and smiles. "Great! Now, please follow me." I blink for a few seconds when I see our room change. Now we are inside a massive hall filled with people from different races. Many of them look like humans, but there are also many other races. "This is the hub world for all of our agents. To the left is the teleporter where you will get into the marketplace." I look to the left and see a massive door; above that door is a symbol of scales. "To the right is where you buy something from the company. Unlike the marketplace, you can buy perks or power from that place." "Does the marketplace cannot sell power?" "Not directly. They can sell power through an item. For example, they can sell Chakra Fruit to grant you a chakra pathway. However, if you have enough points, you can buy it through the company official channel. We will be the one planting the chakra pathway." "What is the difference?" "Price and Safety. Marketplaces are usually cheaper, but you can die without being careful. The official channel will make sure the process of getting that power is completely safe but it does cost you a little bit more." "How big is the difference?" "Well, you can look for yourself later." "Fair enough." The Beholder led me to the end of the hall, where I could see many people queuing. However, we did not stand in line. Instead, she took me to the backroom. When we get inside the room, I can see a lizardman– "Oi!" "Pardon me?" "I'm not a lizardman! I'm a Dragonoid! Please don't call me and any other like me in the future ." "Ah, I'm sorry. Can you tell me how to see the difference?" "Our power. You can feel them in the future. For now, you can see it in our eyes. Dragonoid's eyes have an aura that you can see if you focus enough." I frown and focus on his eyes. I blink for a second when I see what looks like a fire inside his pupil. "Ah, I see it now." "Good. Make sure this never happens, okay? You are lucky you meet me first because the other Dragonoid will kill you." "Even when I'm a newbie?" "Even when you are a newbie, yes." "Sadly, you can't kill him, Thoid. He is a troubleshooter agent." The Beholder next to me suddenly says. "Really? Is he your agent then, Vloy?" "Yes." "Then he will survive as long as he does not push his luck." My handler looks at me, and I nod my head. I got it, alright. I have some leeway but don't push my luck, just like in real life. A rich person can get some leeway but don't push too hard unless you want the stick. "Anyway, we came here to get his company phone." "Ah, troubleshooter company phone, huh? Very well." The Dragonoid, Thoid, opens the drawer and takes out a small box. "Take a seat." I nod and take a seat. He places the box on the table and opens it. "This is your company phone. This phone cannot be stolen or lost. It will appear in your hand if you think about it hard enough. This phone is the gateway to purchasing all your needs. Power? Perks? Waifu? Husbando? This phone has it all. Some power and perk need you to be unconscious before you can use it." Is this another reason why the power from the official channel is more expensive? It is sure more convenient than going to the market and needing to do it myself. "You can see your mission there. You have a main mission that you NEED to complete before the deadline. There are also side missions you can take if you want bonus points. From getting monster' part to binding and selling someone." "What happens when I fail a mission?" "Side mission? You need to pay a fine but nothing too bad. The main mission? You don't want that. You will cease to exist if that happens. Our patron will eat your soul." I swallow my saliva and say. "Who is our patron?" "Oh? Vloy did not tell you?" I shake my head. "Our Patron, and now she is yours as well, is Shub-Niggurath." "Ah."

It happened one day at dusk.   I woke up to the sounds of the pouring rain. It has been years since I heard it again and it has been a very long time since such an occasion reminded me of a past I wished to erase but couldn’t. I sighed on such remembrance and sat up on my makeshift hay bed. I looked through the dimming sky and it reminded me of the days I was being hunted by my own kind. I felt my blood pressure rising when I remembered those memories in which I grasped my chest and breathed in a relaxing manner to stop it. I really wished to erase it but it also held someone I really hope to meet again.   I sighed again and stood up. Then I walked towards the entrance to look at the puddle in front of my makeshift home. Even though parts of the rain poured into the puddle, my reflection is still clear on it. What the reflection was showing was a young girl with a small body that she might have mistaken as a child. Yes, my body was small and it stayed like that when my parents died in front of me. On top of my forehead were small horns, growing from the skin of my forehead. My ears were also normal as they were longer than the usual humans. Looking at my eyes, they were reflecting the eyes of a cat. Not to mention they are mismatched in color. The right one is colored in yellow and the other is blue. I am not clearly human and it’s a hassle travelling this war torn country. I always have to use a hood to cover my head to travel without any troubles. Most people would see me as a demon but I don’t care as long as they leave me alone.   I also don’t care about my appearance but it still bothers me that I have a small body. I really hate being called a child. With that thought, I touched my chest and checked it. Luckily, it was bigger compared to the other girls at my body size. I thanked the gods that created me as I still have grown some fat on my chest. I then looked at my eyes and that made me remember someone in the past. Before meeting that person, I hated these eyes of mine but after meeting him, I grew to love them.   I stopped reminiscing about the past after hearing the rain becoming stronger. Then I looked up to the sky as I drew my right hand to the rain, trying to feel the sensation of it. It was cold but living alone was colder. I wonder what happened to the people of my race. I’m sure that there are still some out there but every year that passes makes me lose hope. It can’t be helped. After all, we were hunted by other kinds, including humans, in the past. It was said that it made those monsters more powerful as they ate our flesh. I still don’t know but I hope that some of my race are still living amongst the humans. After all, he annihilated all of those demons.   Hearing a growl in my stomach, I decided to hunt for food. Dusk for me is dawn for most humans because I am a nocturnal being. Fitting for somebody whose body looks like a demon but unlike those demons that crave for human flesh or my own race, I only eat animal meat and sometimes plants. Well, I just have to be careful not to be seen by humans since they always misunderstand a lot. There were a lot of times already that I was hunted down and attacked by humans. I am not weak though and I always repelled them. I then take their belongings as payment for their transgression. I always asked them why they are hunting me down and they always answered that there were rumors that there was a man-eating demon in these lands and with my body that has some inhumane characteristics, it can’t be helped but be rumored as one. It is always a chore to convince them to leave me alone as I am not what was rumored and I explain to them that I only eat animals for meat. Usually they don’t come back but there are some… eccentrics that come back to train their skills with their blades. Having a lot of free time, I entertained them until they’re satisfied. Almost all of them never return, maybe because of some wars they’re doing but I don’t really care about human quarrels.   I went out of my makeshift home and into the nearby woods. Before going out, I took my hunting clothes and wore them. This will help me hide my presence from the beasts that lurk in the woods. Under the cover of the rainy sky of the night, I hunted for some boars that lived in the woods.    Before going out, I took out my hunting clothes and now I am wearing them. I put a hood on my head to help me hide from my prey. I don’t know how these clothes work but it does help me on my hunts. I walked in the woods for sometime until I detected something. I went near where I detected it and saw two boars sleeping under a tree. The two were sticking to each other's body, maybe to warm each others’ body in the cold wind of the night. It reminded me of the past and that made me feel pity for them but right now, I need to find food as I am hungry.   I triggered something in my body and that turned my right fingers into iron-like claws. This is how I hunt for food. I slowly crawled towards them like I usually do but the moment I tried to pierce both of the boars, a sudden flash of lightning illuminated the area and I was forced to back off. The boars suddenly reacted to my killing sense and ran away. I guess, there goes my dinner.   However it’s not because of the lightning that I backed off, it’s because of a warrior in front of me brandishing a katana. He tried to cut me down when I was too focused on hunting the boars earlier. Good thing that I sensed his killing sense which allowed me to dodge his attack and avoid being cut..   “Are you the one who is called the ‘Evil Fang of Goten-yama no hana-zakari’?”   The human warrior, who prepared his body ready to attack me at any moment, asked me in a high tone which made me hear the sound of the rain less noisy for the moment. The wind then began to grow stronger and it made the hood I’m wearing blown off from my head. Because I can see much better in the dark with these eyes of mine, I can tell that he was shocked at my appearance. Well, it’s not surprising as I am not a human after all.   “So, what if I am? What are you going to do?”   I asked him while brandishing my transformed right hand. I did that to try and scare the warrior but I should have explained myself. I sighed on my stupidity but this was a bad habit of mine especially when facing warriors. Looking at his face… somehow…   …?!.... Y-you are…   Something made me falter but I resist the urge as I am currently facing this warrior.   “I am here to challenge the ‘Evil Fang of Goten-yama no hana-zakari’!”   I was deep in my thoughts when he suddenly shouted. That action and declaration surprised me as nobody declared a challenge when they saw my current demonic form and most warriors would either flee or recklessly attack me in fear without trying to create a conversation or even try to stop and listen to my explanations. Everyone before would look at my current form as a being that should be destroyed at first sight but this warrior… they’re so similar.   “I see. So my name lured you here but… why should I entertain the likes of you? After all, you attacked me when my guard was at its lowest. In the first place, do you even have any honor?”   I smiled as I asked him. This is the first time a warrior declared their intentions but if he intended to challenge me, he should not have attacked me first.   “I’m sorry. I fully intend to declare my challenge first but the first time I saw you, I couldn’t help but make the first move to try and taste you and it made my body move.”   Suddenly, I felt a twitch in my eye.   This… damn… pervert.   I felt so pissed off that I suddenly transformed my body into my true form. My body remains the same but my canine teeth grew, my fingers turned into claws, my legs turned muscular and my back grew some wings.   “I don’t hate your courage but you pissed me off with your words. I suppose I would kill you but I don’t want my name to be smeared by your perverted words. Fine. If you manage to defeat me, perhaps I should offer you a reward.”   He only smiled at me and with a happy face he said…   “Very well then. Don’t take back what you said.”   … and then he charged at me with the intention to decapacitate me. From that form, he is not trying to kill me but to disable me, huh. So he really just wants to challenge me. Very well, I’ll play your game.   I prepared for his charge and when I was in his range, I dodged by moving my body from the left and attacked him using my claws. I thrust my claws towards him, targeting non-vital areas but I was surprised when he parried it and counter attacked me by thrusting his sword towards my abdomen.    “... I hate to admit it but you’re good, human.” I said as I created a distance between us. “And you’re good as what the rumors say, demon.” He complimented me back. He is really similar...  “... Well, shall we continue?” I brandish my claws once more. “Of course, my lady. A gentleman would never say no when he got an invitation from a lady.” he said as he prepared to attack me. “How a gentleman are you.” This time, I charged at him and we continued our exchanges of attacks once again with some rests between exchanges. This feeling of excitement and thrill of a battle… I missed this. I want this to continue forever but I know it will come to an end.   “Urghh!” He managed to connect a strike when I got off balance after an attack and I fell down on the ground. He stood in front of me and pointed out his sword near my neck. A sign of a victor to his opponent. “... ha, ha…” Even though the rain poured hard, I can hear his exhausted breathing while I am still full of composure. I guess humans have limited stamina after all. Above all, I defeated the previous warriors who came to me by stretching out our battles but this warrior defeated me before he got fully exhausted. “...ha… ha…. Are we… done now?” he asked him. He didn’t intend on killing me like the others so this is my loss then. “Yeah, this is my loss.” I said as I stood up.    Normally, people would get a shocked face while looking at me standing up easily like that as if I didn’t do anything that will exhaust a normal human. Demons of my race are known to have unlimited stamina after all but the warrior in front of me didn’t show any shock nor fear. He lowered his weapon and smiled at me.   “Haha! I supposed I am the winner then.” He shouted louder than what the noise of the rain was making while holding up his weapon. I smiled at that form of his which reminded me o---. Suddenly, he fell down. From the looks of it, he fell down due to exhaustion and if he’s unconscious and remains in this place, he will die because of the cold. It can’t be helped then. I transformed back to my human form and carried his unconscious body towards my hut.   When I arrived at my hut while carrying his body, I put his body on the haybed. Then I took off his clothes as it was so wet and it will be bad if he wears them. I hung his clothes to dry them. Looking at him, he’s quite big but I know that a human body won’t last in this weather, not to mention he’s naked right now. I sighed, changed my wet clothes to drier ones and then laid near him. It has been a long time since I laid together with a man but it wasn’t such a bad experience. I stayed like that for several hours with only thoughts of the past entertaining me. It was not until morning came that he woke up.   “My, you’re awake already?” I said as he groggily woke up. “... I’m sorry, my lady. It seems that exhaustion struck me when I was almost victorious.” he said dejectedly. “It can’t be helped as you are human but a win is a win.” “What do you mean, my lady? If it was a real battle then I would have died with your claws.” “And it was not a real battle, warrior. You issued a challenge and you won the challenge. By that logic, you won.” “.... hahaha. I see. Very well then.” “Kyaah!” He suddenly pulled me down. “I am taking my reward.” He unveiled my clothes and then kissed me. That morning was longer than the mornings in my whole life and the bastard took my first time too.   “Gh! Nggh!” “Hnnnh! Don’t be so rough! Nhhaah!” “Aughh… Forgive me… Ohh.. Offf.. You’re my first woman, so I have no idea when to stop.” We made it all the way. This guy… seriously, exhausted himself in battle but he’s peerless when it comes to this! “You are really beautiful, my lady. I only come here to test my skills against a demon but I’ve taken a liking to you. What do you say? Will you be my wife?” he said while putting his right thumb to my mouth. I felt so embarrassed that I gently kicked his face but it looked painful though.   “Don’t get carried away! One victory, one reward!” I shouted embarrassingly. “Mbfh!… is that… a no?” he said dejectedly. “I… I never said that….” saying that, a spark of light appeared in his eyes. “Then if you agree, I can support you! Even if you want to eat human flesh…!” “I absolutely do not!” I said angrily. After all, I haven't eaten human flesh for centuries now. “I’ve only taken the possessions of those idiots who came to challenge me like you did and set them back home when I defeated them!” “I-is that so?” He said. “Yes. Besides, how could a brat like you support me?” “In this chaotic world, there’s a demand for warriors everywhere! I’ll rise to the top and show you my true worth!” “Are you telling me to go live among humans? It’s true that after centuries of living in the mountains, I am somewhat tired of this lifestyle, but... “ I stood up and showed him my behind which was still full of his fluids. “... I expect you to keep me entertained.” “Yes! That is indeed good to hear. Now that our betrothal has been decided…” “... Hmmm?” I tilted my head when suddenly, he grabbed me and attacked my behind! “This calls for more love-making!” “Nnohh!” That attack surprised me but I didn’t try to fight. “AhMmgah! The future looks bright, for you at least. Yaahaah!”   Years have passed and I lived together with him in his old village. At first, I was able to blend in with the locals as I kept on hiding my horns and ears with my hood but it was until a bandit raid appeared and Renge was not in the village at that time. I forgot to mention about this but Renge was his name and he formally introduced himself after… our first time.   Anyway, I defended the village while showing my true appearance and easily annihilated the bandits. At first, they were afraid of me and I left the village for some time and lived nearby. It stayed that way until I saved the chief’s daughter who got lost in the area I was living in. She was about to be kidnapped by the bandits but I saved her in time. Although afraid, the little girl slowly opened herself to me and thanks to her, I gained the trust of the villagers. The little girl also became my disciple on sword arts and some other subjects. Some time passed and I was also able to join the hunting party. Well, they were surprised and afraid when I turned into my demon self as I hunted but now I think all of them have gotten used to my form. Maybe I should keep to myself that all of them also wetted their under garments when they first saw my demon self. When Renge came after that incident, I couldn’t read his emotions at that time. It was a funny experience.   Nothing really interesting happened when I was in the village though… Well, almost nothing interesting. Renge joined most of the war that this country waged with itself. Along the way, he gathered prestige that he was given land from the emperor of the country.  Everyday, Renge assaulted me whenever he felt like it when he’s at home. So much in fact that some of our neighbors were complaining about it. Well, when you’re being assaulted, albeit with your consent, and it makes a lot of noise, people will surely complain. But, we did it everyday and for years, that I was able to give birth to 13 children of his. It was always hectic everytime a child was born. I still hate it that my body still won’t grow but I guess my demon self does look mature enough even though it is really not human looking. I wished days like these would continue forever, like how I lived in that mountain before coming here but everything has to end.   Right now, Renge’s head is on top of my lap. We’ve done this a lot of times but this time is quite different. He is now old with gray hair and wrinkles on his face. His muscular body is now thinned and the energy he always exerted is now gone and from the looks of it, tonight is the night he will move to the other side. That’s why I am here, watching him go, just like in the old times.   “...” “Hm? What’s wrong? Are you thirsty?” Suddenly he called my name. “Back when we first met. That story about testing my skill was just an excuse. The moment I heard that the dreaded demon was called Goten-yama no hana-zakari… I was captivated, overwhelmed with a longing to meet you.” He said as I listened to it. “Ours is an odd story, isn’t it? Tsubaki?” “Hmph! Not in the slightest.” I then put my hands on the back of his head and looked him in the eyes. “Did you enjoy your time in this world…” I paused for a bit then finally… “■■■?” … I said his name from another time.   In a far away time, in another time, I was weak. I can fight them back but their sheer number and quality is enough to fight my people. That’s why most of my people are hiding in pockets but these demons have the ability to track us down. It was until one man, him, appeared in front of me. I was in my demon self because I was chased by those demons who wanted my immortality. I tried to attack him but I fell down before I could strike him down. I was expecting my life would end there but when I woke up, he took care of me.   “... Why?” That was my first word when I woke up. “... Why are… you helping… me?” I asked him.   He gave me an answer that I didn’t expect and all I could reply was a “Hmph”. He promised me that he would help me hunt those demons. He kept on his promise but in the end, he died. The last time we were together was when we hunted down the last of those demons which was the reason why there are no other demons that crave for human flesh and my race in the future. We took down the last demon, which was a giant one, but before it fell, it gave him a farewell gift of death and struck him down. I ran to him and he asked me to put his head on my lap which I obliged. After a few moments of silence…   “■■■...” I said his name. “... Look, Tsubaki, that’s the last of them. They wanted to devour you, steal your immortality… but they won’t threaten you anymore…” he replied in a painful voice.  “What’s the point if I lose you?” I screamed from the bottom of my heart as I couldn’t stand it. “True… my apologies. Besides, you’re such a bashful girl… I never got to embrace you.” It surprised me but… “True. then next time we meet, I’ll make up some pretext and offer my body the moment I see you. How about that, ■■■?”   He died that night and I left that place after burning the carcasses of the demons and burying his body near that place. I ran away and found my old place where I stayed for centuries until I met him. Renge.   “I did.” He answered my question about whether or not he really enjoyed his time here. “I see. That’s good to know. You kept getting me pregnant every single year, you rascal. Don’t worry though, I’ll stay with the children until the end too.” I then felt that his life was dimmingly exhausted. I guess. It’s time. “... Still, you really don’t remember a thing, do you? I had to go to so much trouble. I wonder if you’ll remember next time. No, you’ll probably forget again. What do you think? Renge.” Then, I felt his body lose its usual energy. I didn’t cry. All I did was look at him as long as time permitted me.   Years have passed since Renge died. As I promised him, I stayed with the children for as long as they could but they didn’t inherit my immortality and I will have to look at them on their deathbeds. I didn’t run though since I promised him that I will stay with them until the end. The war that consumed the country invited foreigners which helped one side to win it. With the wealth I inherited from Renge and from my children, I travelled the post-war country while trying to hide my identity as a demon. Well, it seemed that there were some descendants of the village where Renge grew up who helped me hide my identity since I helped their parents or brothers back in those days. As time passed though, so did the people around me and so did the technology. That helped me go out of this country and travel around the world. I was surprised by many things and discovered that some of my tribe were living amongst the humans in far away land. It made me happy that I became a historian at some university in a prestigious country. It sucks though that my body still remains the same but it didn’t bother me. Because of that, I can attract unwanted attention but thanks to the people of my tribe, they told me the set of rules they follow when living with humans.   Centuries passed and I finally decided to return home. Many things have changed and it was refreshing to see. I walked around and saw the places I have been through when suddenly, somebody grabbed my shoulder. I turned around and it was a big guy. Me and a big guy made me feel this is a dangerous scenario so I screamed.   “W-what’s this about? Are you a kidnapper? A flirt? A cop?...” I looked at him and the more I looked at him, the more his face came around. I faked a cough and… “There’s all sorts of things to talk about. Like the kids or how I’ve lived until now or reminiscing or how your life has been.” I faked a cough again and said…   “Ahem. I mean… What’s your name?”

POV MC I am dead. I am Luth and I am dead. I don't know for other .I don't feel any differences between living and dying. Perhaps because I don't feel easily any kind of emotion. I am in this strange space with a timer in front of me. Don't misunderstand this timer was present in front of me all the time. At the start I talk about it to many person (psychologist) when I was young. They give me some stupid explanations about it. Perhaps because of the existence of this timer,I decide to study human psychology to discover its origin but wasted of time even now I don't have any clear answers about it.   00:00:00:00:01:00 One minute left. I am curious to see what it's waiting for me after. 00:00:00:00:00:50 Perhaps seeing god to ask him about "that" 00:00:00:00:00:40 Perhaps being reincarnate in some weird world 00:00:00:00:00:30 Perhaps a troll message  00:00:00:00:00:20 Perhaps Nothing 00:00:00:00:00:10 the space around me are shaking 000:00:00:00:00:05 the space are fissiring like a mirror 00:00:00:00:00:00 A bright light is coming from everywhere around #WHat the hell is this# A house

The being words kept on spinning through my head, “abandoned…” the word once again echoed as I step into the studio, my hands tremble at the thought as I walked to the toilet to compose myself or at least make head or tail of the whole situation. Going into the toilets I looked into the mirror and saw my reflection, my brown hair was a mess after the accidents, there were tears on my dress a couple of scrapes on my skin but it was weird for the only pain I felt was in my heart. “He’s lying… I won’t be abandoned…”  I convince myself as I proceed to clean up. I needed to pretend I was fine, or at least fine enough to practice. After a couple of minutes I deem myself as fit and started to walk to the studio, slowly feeling the pain in my ankles growing, ignoring the pain I made my way there and when I reached the door I heard the voices of the people inside ranting. “Why are we here again….” One voice whined. “Because our little princess demands it…” Another voice answered “Even if we practice she’s the worst one out of all of us…” A third voice chimed in. “True…” The first two voices answered in unison, as my head began to think back to what the being said to me, to how everything I do was useless, I gripped the door knob and wanted to enter but before I could I heard a girl voice talking. “You guys may complain but you guys still do what she says unlike me you guys would just throw me to the curb….” The girl complain, the three boys were quick to react by giving her a lot of praises and said that she was better compared to me. I chuckle at her words for the girl Gabriella could barely play an instrument, all she could do was sing and look pretty, but she was an omega and when compared to dear old me she has more of a fan base as many would root for a cutesy omega rather than a rich heiress Beta. That’s why she was brought into the group, to get more “clout” or that was what uncle Quinn said, now Gabrielle and Damien was ship together even when people know Damien was my boyfriend, but I guess facts doesn’t really matter in the world of celebrity. The voices inside continue to insult me, and the more they spoke the more pain I felt, feeling drain of all of this, I opened the door and went in, everyone turn to me as I took a step in. “Where have you been?” Damien was the first to speak as I took my stuff, having gone through this conversation before I knew where this would lead. “You know we have been waiting for you…” he added without waiting for my answer, his voice was becoming more and more condescending. I said nothing as I continue to let him speak, for I remember the last time I fight back I was reprimanded for making him cry, “He’s still is differentiating “my mother said as she reprimand me for doing such, apparently according to her all Omega like Damien would go through painful changes in his body and as his mate, I should be more understanding and let myself be abused, for I demanded so much from him. She said this because usually if an omega go through all of this  pain his/her alpha partner would just leave a temporary mark and all this pain would go away, each time she would indirectly implying that if I wasn’t a Beta he would be better. Although I know my mother never meant to make me feel bad, for she just wanted for me to understand, however each conversation after that always makes me wonder, would it be better if I wasn’t a Beta. “Alie!” Damien yelled snapping me out of my thoughts, I looked at him and saw the anger in his eyes, “were you listening to me?” he asked, I didn’t reply as I just continue to clean up. “You always don’t listen maybe we should break up…” Damien said his famous line, each time he said this I would refuse him vehemently for I heed my mother’s advice for she was an omega herself, and would then beg or pamper the man with flowers and what not but today I was tired so instead of the normal script I’m so very use to saying I instead said “Okay…” then I turn to the two alpha sitting so cozily on the coach, my mother have mentioned that Alpha differentiating would be rather different than an omega they would claim a place and would act to show off dominance, this was no difference for they despise being weak to me. “I also quit the band….” I said before taking everything and leaving the room, I was done playing my part.

"Sexy jutsu!" Boruto cried out as he shifted into a shapely woman before their eyes.  By now Jiraiya had grown used to the transformation and could keep himself from fainting, he only stared at it with  parched lips and a dry throat. "Show off!" Naruto whined, then a large grin plastered his face. "My turn…" Jiraiya gulped hungrily, as he waited for Naruto's transformation. The heat between his legs was killing him, these days these two have been killing him with their little competition. "N-naruto s-stop it." He tried to say, but Naruto wasn’t having it. "Transformation jutsu! Sexy jutsu!" Puff! an even more tantalizing figure appeared, Jiraiya barely held himself back from pouncing on her. His eyes widened as Naruto began to trace her finger twirling her nipples and another along her hairy lower lips. He couldn't help but think… 'Where did these two learn these things from?" In his hand gripped a scroll, a technique he'd developed after being tormented for so long. It carried a large amount of chakra,  a year's worth of chakra actually… He had shadow clones meditate day and night for many months to gather this amount. In theory if a large amount of chakra is infused during a transformation the transformation will begin to change the physical body. But it required vast amounts of chakra more so than even the tailed beasts chakra combined. BUT who was he? He is one of the legendary sannin, if anyone could do it… it was him. "Naruto… you better stop." He growled. "Awww… you're such a pooper pervy sage, my transformation is obviously better! Look!" Naruto spread her legs exposing her pink lips and blonde bush. Boruto laughed, and began spreading her cheeks showing him her hairy asshole, it was pink and soft like a cherry. Jiraiya moved…  Boom! A scroll unfurled! Vast amounts of sealing runes unwinding as he presses his palm at its center. The whole building shook, plates and books fell over as if an earthquake had struck. Jiraiya took in the vast amount of power the scroll held, the words on the scroll crawled up his hands like living breathing tattoos as he struck… Pa! Both naruto and boruto were thrown back from the force of his strike as he poured out copious amounts of chakra. The two fell over in a heap, their features distorted from the amount of pain and chakra coursing through their veins like blood.  Naruto felt as if her transformation had gained a life of its own pulling her flesh and reshaping her bones. Boruto spasmed, foams coming out of her mouth as the chakra devastated her insides. Crisp crackling rang as their bones bent and healed, their transformations ran amok. Their flesh twisting and writhing, their bones bending, breaking and remodeling into their transformations. Jiraiya's face was solemn as he stood, towering over the two; now girls. There was a devilish grin on his face and nosebleed trailing down his nose. There was no jiraiya left… only pervy sage. Jiraiya had died. His pervy expression was etched onto his features like a mask, non changing. A force of chaos. Jiraiya had completely snapped! With the same silly expression on his face, he quickly shifted through a series of hand signs and summoned a frog to swallow one of the girls still writhing in pain. Puff! A cloud of smoke rose and a toad the size of a car rose from the floor mouth open.  A helpless Naruto was quickly stuffed inside itself as it stood at attention in front of the pervy sage. It was bright today, sunlight filtered in through the window, dying the room in the golden shade of sunrise. Except, that now the furniture had been pushed aside and a toad sat solemnly in the middle. Pervy sage walked hurriedly forward, with a paintbrush in his hand. It only took him a couple minutes to write down a complicated set of seals on the toad's belly before the toad exploded into a cloud of smoke whisking Naruto away. He focused his attention again on Boruto, who by now had slowly regained her awareness after the pain had faded. "W-what's happening?" Her voice came out melodiously. She rubbed her eyes. When Boruto opened them, she could only see a big cock encompassing her entire view. It was veiny with hard warts littered across its surface.  It jumped up and down as his cock throbbed, and his muscle convulsed as if it was nodding. Boruto was at a loss. She stared blankly as it approached her face.  She only realized she wasn't dreaming when the fishy stench of his cock assailed her senses and the girth of his length slides pass, caressing the side of her face. As it passed the side of her face the weight of it could be felt settling over her shoulder, and she garnered an image of his wrinkled balls. It throbbed on her flesh, she felt the veins on it enlarging against her face, constricting then relaxing in a rhythmic pattern. "W-what?" She managed to let out the words, as he began twisting his waist letting his cock slap itself repeatedly against the side of her cheek. "Mmmmh," he hummed. Pa!  Pa! Pa! The crisp sounds of his cock rang of flesh on flesh against her cheek. Regaining her senses Boruto jumped to stand, but quickly realized the state of her body. It was racked with pain as if every twitch of her muscles had a kunai being driven into her flesh. Instead she stumbled backwards onto her butt. Her legs bent and spread in his direction. She was powerless to move. "P-prevy sage, don't do this…" she eked out the words as she stared at the pulsing girth. She watches as the pervy sage grabs his dick, his hands barely able to wrap it. She power through the pain and tried to crawl away. The carpet rubbing raw against her naked flesh as she crawled. "Baruto," She looked back. To stare directly into his urethra. Clear white liquid spill from the tip. Her eyes were heavy now. The small effort she had used to get away has sapped most of her energy. The musk was what was keeping her from passing out. It was so thick the air tasted of it on her lips. The soreness all over her body, and her pussy seems to throb with his cock. She could make out every twitch of his dick, the dribble of cum falling off the tip.  Most of all was the anxiety, fear, and helplessness of her situation.  His cock grew larger and larger in her vision until the wet urethra pressed against her lips. It was sour and salty all at once. She tried to turn away, but she felt like the strength was no where. Her eyes widened as she felt the pressure on her lips increase. "Nnnnhh," he moaned as his cock pressed harder. The sensation of his cock head meeting the edge of her lips caused her to close her eyes. "Don't you dare…" She heard herself mumble. His cock swelled and filled her mouth, forcing her lips apart. "N-no!" She choked trying to pull her head back, but his hands locked the back of her head in an iron grip. Her meager strength had long melted. She felt his cock swelling and becoming larger, stretching her lips further and further open. The girth of it pressed against the roof of her mouth until she could feel her gag reflex kicking in. She tried to bite, but even the muscles on her mouth were sore. She only managed to move her tongue around. She felt her tongue wrapping around his dick, she could feel the hard warts of his cock and the coiling viens throbbed at every little twitch of her tongue. Boruto could hear his panting grow louder as he pressed his cock deeper down her throat. His hips were rhythmic, and so was his thrust.  His shaft pushed inside her mouth in a methodical fashion, harder and harder! Traveling down her throat into where she felt was her ribcage and back. Her tits bounce with his movements, the open air stun her nipples and her pussy throbbed. His actions seemed to vibrate her body down to her pussy, and clitoris. She puked, the vomit on his dick but he pushed it down her throat agains and again. Her eyes rolled as she could hardly breathe. Her lips were stretched so far her mouth hurt.

(Lucas's pov) My name is Lucas Cook. Age 24. An ordinary American citizen with a minor obsession, according to some. As long as I remember, I have always admired FBI agents. That's why I decided to be one in the future. I studied and trained, abandoning all of my social life just to fulfill this one goal. I was determined and focused, and thanks to that, I was standing in front of one of many headquarters, ready for my first day at work. I can't stop myself from smiling. There are many memes surrounding the FBI, but deep down inside, I know that they are a serious organi- *BAAM* Something, or rather someone, flew out of the door past me and crashed into trash bins. "Ha?" What just happened? I should probably check on the person that, I assume, was thrown, but before I could even start walking toward him, he stood up, throwing up the bins high in the air. "What the hell, you violent woman!!!? Just because I kissed you on the cheek to cheer you up because you were feeling down doesn't mean that you can kick me!!!" It was a man with medium-length blond hair and some piercing in his ears. He looked like a typical playboy, to be honest. "And how many times do I need to tell you to not kiss me, you asshole!!!? It's bad enough working with you but I also need to endure your flirting. The worst part is that you are not even that good at it!" That left the man shocked and offended. "How dare you! I had plenty of girlfriends in my life!" The short-haired brunette crossed her arms and raised her eyebrow. "Name one." "..." The man didn't say anything. He opened his mouth a few times, but no words came out until he found his answer. "Your mother." He looked so proud and smug because of his response. Unfortunately for him, the woman didn't find it humorous. "Wrong answer." She then launched at him and proceeded to beat the shit out of him. Seeing the brutality in front of my eyes, I decided to ignore it, and hopefully, she will ignore me as well. "Wait." She said while she was holding the playboy without a game up in the air with one arm by the neck. Mission failed. It's regrettable that my first day at my dream job will be my last. "Your name." "Lucas Cook." "Are you the newbie that was expected to come today?" I nodded. She threw away the man and started walking towards me. "My name is Nellie Meyers, and I will be your senior, just like that asshole over there." She pointed at the 'corpse'. "He is David Brooks and, unfortunately, is in the same division as both of us." "Shouldn't you introduce yourself as agent Meyers then?" I asked. "From what I know, that's the procedure." "Huh!? And why would I do that!? Do I get a raise if I do that? If not, I don't care. Now, if you don't have any other stupid questions, then let's go, rookie!" "Y-yes!" She is kinda scary... --- We went inside the building, and I was ecstatic. I don't know how many times I imagined how this moment would go, and to be honest, I didn't expect it to start with a man flying out of this very building. I'm also not sure if I witnessed a murder, but I'll believe in my senior. She is, after all, an agent and wouldn't kill someone in broad daylight. Now that I think about it, I didn't check what division I was going to be part of. I was too excited about getting accepted and spent a lot of time celebrating... alone. "Excuse me, Ms. Meyers, but which division are we part of?" She looked at me with a weird expression. From what I learned about reading people, she thinks I'm an idiot. I didn't have the opportunity to test this knowledge before, though. "Are you an idiot?" Yes, I was right! "And why are you happy about being called one? Are you also a masochist? We don't need another one." I scratched the back of my head. "Sorry about that. You are a lovely lady Ms. Meyers, but I don't enjoy being abused by anyone. I was just happy about guessing your expression. Also, I'm not an idiot. I graduated at the top of my class." "...At least you can talk normally to people without pissing them off. To answer your question, though, it will need to wait. You'll be in for a surprise." She isn't wrong. "Also, be prepared for everything." I was from the day becoming an agent became my dream. We went to an elevator to go underground. Is this a secret base? Please let it be a secret base! I had practically stars in my eyes as I imagined how the insides would look like. Ms. Meyers looked at me weirdly the whole time. Soon we reached our destination, and the elevator doors opened, revealing... a normal office with not-so-normal people. Calling it chaos would be an understatement. I witnessed a pair of twins wrestling, some man speaking German as people around him listened carefully, a woman doing make-up as she was sitting on someone, and the man under her was wearing a latex mask, and I swear I could hear him breathing heavily. This... wasn't what I expected. Am I disappointed? I don't know yet. It didn't hit me just yet. As I was lamenting, an old man with a very famous mustache walked up to me and showed me his badge. "Agent Hitler, FBI!" I looked at Ms. Meyers, asking if this is real. "Don't worry about it. That's the only thing he says. We suspect he has dementia, but we never got it confirmed. The only doctor here speaks only german, so no one understands him." That's not the real Adolf Hitler, is it? I know that he died, but he looks similar. Besides, he would be dead even if the theories about him surviving and escaping Berlin, so I assume that he is just lookalike. The German-speaking man walked up to us as well and started talking to Hitler-looking old man. "Mein Führer, warum sprechen Sie mit diesen Bauern? Sie müssen sich darauf konzentrieren, Ihren Verstand wiederzuerlangen, aber machen Sie sich keine Sorgen, dass der Plan bald abgeschlossen sein wird." I turned to Ms. Meyers. "What did he say?" "I don't know. No one does. There's not a single person that speaks German in our division. That's Medic, by the way. We don't know his real name, so that's what we call him, as he is the one that takes care of our injuries. He is also known for his kind heart." "Ich hasse Sie alle und ich kann Ihren unvermeidlichen Tod kaum erwarten." "What a beautiful language he is speaking. I'm sure that he wished us a nice day." I don't know why but I think he said something entirely different. "Well, let's not stay in one place. I'm going to introduce you to most of the squad." Ms. Meyers led me first to the woman sitting on a man. She had long red hair, a pair of quite big breasts, and red lipstick that she had applied not long ago. She also was wearing high heels, unlike Ms. Meyers. I hoped that we would skip her. "That right here is Melissa Long and-" She was interrupted by Ms or Mrs. Long. "That's alright darling, I can introduce myself." She turned to me. "As little Nellie said moments ago, my name is Melissa Long, and this little doggy under me is called Chris Barnes, but we all call him Rocky." "The only one who calls him that is you." Ms. Meyers chirped in. "Is that so? But he prefers being called Rocky, isn't that right, Rocky?" She started petting him and scratching behind his ears. "Woof, Woof, Woof!" The man started barking happily. "See, he loves his name. Going back to our cute little rookie here. Here's a present for becoming part of our squad." She gave me a lip balm. "Girls hate dry lips, so keep one on you at all times." She winked at me. "OK, Let's go! We don't have a whole day." Ms. Meyers dragged me away from Mrs. Long. I'll call her Mrs from now on. As we were heading to the main office, where I assumed, the Executive assistant director was sitting. We were, however, stopped by the twins. "Hey, you! Stop right there! Tell us who is better at flexing their muscles!" "That's right! Tell him that I'm better!" "What did you say!?" They slammed each other foreheads against each other. "Just ignore them..." Ms. Meyers advised me, but we couldn't get away before the door to the office slammed open. "What is this motherfucking ruckus about. Did you forget how to behave as normal human beings again!!?" A Samuel L. Jackson lookalike stepped outside the office. I was left speechless by that, and that caught his attention. "Do I have anything on my face!?" "What?" I was surprised by him addressing me. He drew out a gun and pointed it at my forehead. "Say 'What' again!!!" I raised my hands, hoping that he won't shoot me. "Calm down, Director. You're scaring rookie." "Rookie?" He stared at me and what it felt like trying to make a hole in me."Was it today? Shit, I completely forgot. Nothing I can't do about now. My name is Samuel R. Jackson, and I'm the director of this division." He reached out his hand for me to shake. "Lucas Cook, a pleasure to meet you. By any chance are you related to Samuel L. Jackson?" This question caused him to pull out his gun again. "Never, and I say never say that man's name in front of me. Are we clear?" He threatened me with a gun once more, so I nodded my head vigorously. "Good. Then I welcome you to FBI - lolicon division!" What did I get into? --- END Discord server: https://discord.gg/HB2DweuG4J

Me and Andrew were the best of friends. Ever since we entered the Grand Argentan Academy of Magic we had stuck together like glue. It wasn’t like we knew each other before, in fact we met the day of orientation. We just instantly connected to one another and before we knew it we were best friends. We were both designated troublemakers by the faculty and bonded through our mutual love of pranks. But now, something threatened to tear a hole in that friendship like that slightly feral cat tore a hole in my nice robes.    It started one unassuming day last month. In class we were discussing shape-shifting magic, an absolutely fascinating topic, especially for Andrew and I who immediately saw the potential for hilarious pranks. In fact we were so focused on pranking people we didn’t actually focus much during class and had to spend another couple of days re-learning the spell… But that is neither here nor there, the fact is we learnt the spell and then immediately started on our greatest prank yet.   Twas simple, we, the mischievous pranksters, would use shape-shifting magic to turn ourselves into girls and then go into town and buy the prettiest dresses we could find. ‘Who was this prank on?’ You may ask, and the truth is we never did really figure that part out. But anyway, the point is this prank was hilarious. I transformed myself into a short thin blonde-haired figure who could be best described as adorable, she even had freckles. Andrew transformed himself into a big-busted, slightly taller woman with long dark brown locks. While my transformation looked adorable, Andrew’s looked absolutely beautiful. We even created fake names and personas for ourselves. I was Genevieve, a shy daughter of a high-ranking noble who for the first time in her life was shopping alongside the commoners. Andrew was Amelia, Genevieve’s best friend, a confident young woman who had convinced Genevieve to finally step out of her comfort zone and try something new. There was also a part of the backstory where Genevieve secretly had a crush on Amelia but I never did end up telling Andrew that part.   The prank went brilliantly as well! We managed to both buy some stunning dresses. Amelia bought herself a very regal-looking purple dress with plenty of adornments decorating it. It made her look the part of a beautiful noble lady. I, er, Genevieve bought herself a simpler silky aquamarine dress, the simpler design made her seem more like a high-born but innocent maiden. She looked absolutely stunning in that dress and spent a not-at-all ridiculous amount of time simply swishing back and forth in her dress admiring it and how elegant she looked in it. After that we simply walked around town enjoying the sights and each other’s company. To all others we appeared simply as maidens enjoying a brisk walk around town in our fine clothes. It was probably my favourite prank we had ever done. But that was just it, a simple prank.   However, for the next month or so Andrew seemed increasingly off. I repeatedly inquired into why he was acting so weird but he usually just mumbled some excuse or another and then quickly changed the topic. It was jarring to see this person who was normally so assured of himself behave in this manner. I was worrying about him practically the whole month. But then, yesterday I received a message from him asking to meet behind the library today. When I arrived at the backside of the library I found not Andrew but Amelia standing there, wearing the same purple dress that we had bought on the day of the prank. Before I could say anything she launched into an explanation about how she couldn’t get the prank out of her mind. And that after a large amount of soul-searching, she realised that the reason for this was that she wanted to be Amelia forever. She stated that I was the first one to know about this, but she intended to continue studying at the academy as Amelia with her new form. I was understandably flabbergasted at this revelation. I mean someone couldn’t just choose to be a girl, otherwise there wouldn’t be any men around.    Now this comes to the heart of the matter. The suddenness of this announcement made me shocked. So shocked that after standing there for several seconds gaping like a codfish, I ran. I don’t fully understand why I ran from her at that moment but for some reason it felt like my entire worldview was crashing in on me. A person could just decide to be… a girl? I can’t understand how this is possible. Some people just have to take one for the team and be guys, right? But even if some people could decide to be girls what does that mean for my relationship with the newly minted Amelia. How can I even compare to her elegance and beauty? No longer would we be a thick-as-thieves troublemaking pair but Amelia, beautiful, smart, perfect Amelia, and that weird guy who is constantly tagging along with her. Our relationship will never be the same again. So what am I to do?    …   You know, I could try to be Genevieve. I mean, it makes sense, Genevieve is Amelia’s best friend and hopelessly in love with her. If Andrew is going to be Amelia then it simply makes sense that I will be Genevieve. Then we could be best friends again, we could go shopping for dresses together again, we could braid each other’s hair, we could learn how to be girls together. And everywhere we go people would see us and comment ‘oh, what beautiful young maidens’. Just the thought of it makes my heart leap with glee. I could wear that pretty dress I bought again as well. I had kept it, of course, I had hung it up in my closet and some days I would stare at it wistfully remembering how great that prank was. But am I really willing to change my entire identity for Amelia’s sake? What would happen if despite me becoming Genevieve we drifted apart anyway? Well then I would be stuck as a maiden, as I couldn’t possibly walk something like that back. But there are certainly worse fates than to be stuck as a pretty girl. I would still have that joy. That joy of being a girl?   …   Now that the idea has infected my head I can’t stop thinking about it. Why is this idea suddenly so appealing to me? I want to be Genevieve so badly. I want to be a girl. I want to live that beautiful life that I glimpsed so briefly during that prank. Amelia had the right idea this entire time, she was always the smartest of the two of us. She realised her chance for happiness and she took it. Why can’t I do the same? Why should I live this life as a boy when I have no interest in it? The only thing holding me back from my wildest dreams is society’s expectations of me. And I am nothing if not a troublemaker. Now the only thing left to do is to cast the spell, put on that pretty dress, and apologise profusely to Amelia. Sheepish Hi! Thanks for reading. I wrote this within like 3 hours without any plan so it might have a few errors or not make total sense. This is my first post on this site so I am a bit nervous posting it. Also after writing it I realised that this reads like an abridged version of SapphicSounds' Can't Make an Omelette so if you want more magical egg prank shenanigans check that out.

“I’M A CHARACTER IN A NOVEL?!” was the first thing I could say as I try to wrap my head into what’s happening, sitting down in a void of darkness. I thought back to how the day started, it was a Saturday, and as always I had band practice to which I would have to pull everyone together to practice. I know I was the only one that care about this band, for everyone had their own thing, my brother Roger the bassist, had the company to look out for, my cousin Walter the band drummer, was busy with girls that now find him interesting and Damien my boyfriend and our main vocalist, was trying to go solo. I felt selfish to force them to stay together but in my head I feel like they would leave me alone if I didn’t, so I persist and I guess they started to resent me for it, as we would always fight before every practice even to get them there was a struggle. Today was no different as I look for the boys and coerced them to practice, I guess being in a band with 2 alpha and an omega when they’re still adjusting to their hormones is stupid but to me that was the only time I got to see them so I held on and persevere with all their attitude. After a 4 hour call with the boys to which each agreed to go to practice I took the limo to go to the studio, and pray that today was different, I guess it was for I heard a bang and the last thing I remember was the sound of car alarms going off. When I came through here I was with a being that I wouldn’t be willing to call human. “So now that you know the facts do you want to go back?” He asked me waking me up from my trance. I turn to looked at him dead in the eye “Your lying…” as I said that I realize I was saying in hope the being would agree, or even chuckle, anything was better than him telling me that I was a mere character made for someone else's amusement. “They did say you were a hard one…” the being began as he conjured up a book and began to recite the words in the book, “Rosalie Ariella Edison, born on 14th of January with her brother Roger Aiden Edison at 5am….” “Stop… “ I begged as I tried to take the book away from him, but before I could even grasp at it he disappear and turned up behind me and continue to read the book. “The two were born to parents Gerald Edison and Felicity Andrews from a drunken night….”  I once again tried to catch him to make him stop talking but once again he vanish from my sight. “The two was raised in a military base to where they meet the male lead of this novel Damien Oakley when you the white moonlight of the story saved him and his mother from an abusive home by taking them in….” “I know all of that!” I scream as I looked for the being trying to comprehend what was happening to me, “Oh then would you like to know what happens later?” the being asked nonchalantly as he appear in front of me. I paused to wonder on what to say, but I remembered I still have practice to go to, “can we talk later…  have to go…” The being nodded its head “Ah yes of course but do know its useless for they will abandoned you anyway in favor of the female lead, and you will be left alone…” his voice echoed before I found myself awake on the road surrounded by onlookers of the accident. I don’t know how I did it but I got up and walked to the studio I guess I was hoping he was wrong.

“May I be excused from dinner, Mum?” Io asked. “I’d like to go work on my bath.” “Of course, dear,” our mum said, giving her a smile as she scampered off. And then there were just the two of us, any prior conversation lapsing into silence. That was probably to be expected, though — I hadn’t been participating in the prior conversation, and... well, it wasn’t often that I was very talkative. I’d always been quiet, preferring to stick inside my head more than I preferred reaching out to others. Even if those others were family. It was just... hard. Too hard to come up with the words. Too much energy that was sapped by... everything else. It was quiet for a while before Mum spoke up. “Are you okay, hon?” she asked. I stopped idly pushing around the fish on my dinner plate, looking up at her with a sheepish expression. “Umm. Yeah. Sorry Mum.” “You know, you can tell me what’s on your mind. I promise, nothing’s off limits.” “I… I know. I just… I don’t really… have coherent thoughts,” I said, my voice soft and hesitant. “I’m sorry.” “You don’t need to apologise, hon. You really should finish your dinner though. Don’t you like salmon? I thought it was one of your favourites...” I shrugged, looking back down at it. It was one of my favourites. I just... “Is it too cold? I can heat it back up if you need…” She held out her fingers to cast a spell of warmth. When I didn’t really make any move to eat it, though, she sighed. “Hon, I don’t want you to go hungry. You’re a growing boy, you know?” A growing boy. I frowned at my food, the idea of eating it even less appealing than the last time I’d taken a bite. Whether or not it was warmed back up. “I’m not hungry, Mum,” I murmured, head down. After a moment, she sighed, and I glanced back up at her nervously. She didn’t look disapproving though, just… worried. “If… if you’re sure,” she said. “Hon, I just want you to be healthy. Your body and your mind. You’ll tell me if you need anything… won’t you?” “Yes, Mum,” I lied. At least some things came easily. She excused me from the table shortly after that — I’d only eaten half of my food, but it wasn’t as if I was going to do more than pick at the remains anyway. To be honest, this was a common occurrence in my life. I pretty much always struggled to have any sort of appetite. I struggled to have motivation for anything, to be fair. And as a result, I’d ended up shaped like a stick, gaunt and weak and small.  I didn’t do much, either… I had very little motivation to try at anything, so it was honestly a miracle I hadn’t failed all my classes at school yet. Let’s just say an assignment turned in was magnitudes rarer than an assignment never touched once. I wanted to be useful… I wanted to be productive, but… Pretty much the only productive thing I ever did was read. It was pretty much how I spent all my time, provided I wasn’t idly staring out the window, anyway. “Hi, Io,” I said, having just entered the living room. She had her massive cauldron out, her bath potion brewing away. For a moment I felt a flash of jealousy, my eyes following the handle of the spoon she was using magic to stir. “Sup,” she said, turning back to the cauldron to sprinkle in a handful of some kind of crushed leaves, then turned back to the workstation littered with materials and notes. She was clearly busy, and I didn’t really want to distract her. I knew her bath on each full moon was important. (As much as it... kinda weirded me out. I hated baths.) Instead of sticking around, I sighed miserably to myself, then left her be and headed up the stairs to my room.  When I got there, I sat on the chair next to my window, looking out into the forest past my home. This was a common spot for me… both during the day, and once it got dark. It was nice, staring at the world... watching the birds, and the trees, and the rare animal scurrying through them... watching the world, and imagining as though I fit within it.  And tonight… It was quiet, calm, a cloudless night with a cool breeze. High, high up in the sky, hung the moon, big and bright and shining down, illuminating the garden, the fallen leaves, and the dim canopy. It was orange, but yet... I struggled to see the colour.  I had a good life. There was nothing I ever needed to ask for; my mum always provided for us. She cared for us, my sister and I. Besides my struggle with, and hatred of school, my life was idyllic. It was like... I lived a wonderful, colourful life, but I couldn’t see any of it; the colours were all dimmed.  And, like... living here was lovely. Living with two witches was amazing — everything was so easy. But again… that was just another reason that I felt... useless, compared to them. My mum did always say that people are special in different ways, that I’d find my hobbies, my interests, my… specialties someday... (Provided I didn’t, like, exclusively stare out the window or read for the rest of my life.) Some days, though… I really wondered whether my mum was right. That I’d actually find things to… make me... normal.  I… I didn’t even want to be normal. I was so used to feeling useless among witches, and I was so tired of it. So… I didn’t just want to be normal. I wanted more than that. I wanted to be able to do the things my mum could do. I wanted to be able to do the things my sister could do. I’d wanted it ever since I’d first seen magic — I still remembered my sister blowing out the candles, making fairy lights all around my bed… In other words. Sometimes, as dumb as it sounded… I wished I was a witch. But I… wasn’t like them. I wasn’t a girl.  Not like my sister. With her… it was obvious. She’d always been confident, straightforward, stubborn, and not at all shy, and she had proudly declared herself a girl and a witch, just like Mum, at age six.  I’d not been any of those things. No, I was cowardly, fickle, emotional... and the idea of talking to anyone at all was just plain terrifying. And most of all I definitely was not a girl. I mean, I’d have known if I was. Like Io. I wasn’t a witch, either, though that was probably obvious considering I wasn’t a girl. Only girls could be witches after all. Boys — like... me — could be warlocks, if they wanted to be, but they had an entirely different kind of magic. It tended to be rougher, and flashier, and much more exciting in the way it solved problems. That wasn’t to say that it couldn’t do the same things, just... the way it went about them was... different. And it... just... I hadn’t really wanted magic like that? Nor had I wanted some kind of mix of the two either, like some people could do. I just... I still couldn’t get those fairy lights out of my head. If I could do magic... that’s what I wanted it to be like. Soft, gentle, comforting... But... I couldn’t have magic like that. I wasn’t a girl, or anything else in the grand spectrum of gender, for that matter. If I had been, then the fact that both my mum and my sister were witches would mean that I’d be able to do magic just like my sister... but... Well, I’d tried. I’d tried to do magic just like her, but... nothing would happen.  So, unfortunately, I was not a witch, and therefore, not a girl. Sometimes, though… Goddess, I really, really hated being a boy. Most things I was fickle about, like I said, but this was... it was different. I just hated it. I really hated being a boy. Mum usually left me alone about what I “needed” to be doing, but, well... I got the picture from schoolmates what a “boy” was supposed to be like. Based on what I’d seen the other ones do. Ugh. I sighed, reaching off to the side to grab my book, and trying to start reading. But my mind just... wasn’t really in it at that moment. After realising that I hadn’t processed anything I’d read in the past page, I gave up, instead just staring out the window listlessly. And I did, for a long, long time. I’m not sure how long, of course, but I do know that eventually I was interrupted by Io suddenly calling my name up the stairs.  I tensed up. Did I… did I really need to go down? Why couldn’t I stay here, alone…?  Talking made me feel terrible. I hated it. When she called a second time, I sighed, then got up, slowly trudging back down the staircase. I really kinda just didn’t want to do anything else today, especially not having some big conversation, or chores, or.... I reached the landing a moment later, and my sister flashed me a thankful smile. “Sorry, I have to run to the bathroom. Would you do me a massive favour?” “What?” I grumbled. “The potion is almost done, all that’s left is stirring it for a while. Can you stir it while I’m gone? I can't trust I’ll be able to multitask from another room.” “Uh…” I stammered, my eyes suddenly widening. I'd never been allowed anywhere near her magic stuff… Really? “I… I can try… are you sure you want me to...?” “I’m sure it’ll be fine,” she smiled softly. “I trust you more than any other boy to be careful with this kind of thing.” “A-alright,” I agreed, half nervous and half excited. I would get to participate in magic! She levitated the spoon out and into my hand, and gestured for me to get up on the platform next to the cauldron, before hurrying back out to do what she needed to. Holding the stirring spoon in my hand, over the bubbling cauldron, I took a deep breath. This potion was important, but all I had to do was stir it. It would be fine. And so stir it I did, my nervous expression fading by the second. I was doing it! I was doing magic! Well, not really, this part of potion brewing wasn’t magical in the least, but… I could imagine that I was doing magic! Imagining myself with long hair, with a big pointy witch hat like my sister got to wear… a skirt… I got to be all cute like her and do magic at the same time… I spun around in a circle, trading the spoon from one hand to another with a flourish, imagining my skirt flaring out. I couldn’t help but giggle to myself. I loved that image. Why couldn’t that be reality? And then I sighed, my fantasy fading, leaving me with nothing but a bubbly cauldron and a sad boy stirring it. There... there was no magic. There would never be magic, not for me. And then, a minute later, as I stared listlessly into the bubbling liquid while stirring, I... dropped the spoon, and it sank slowly to the bottom of the cauldron. Clunk. My brain froze for a moment, and I just stared through the bubbling, clear liquid, down to the faint outline of the spoon below. Well… shoot.  I wasn’t even being careless! I was just stirring it and the spoon slipped out of my hand! Was… was the potion going to be okay? I was sure it’d be okay if the spoon stayed in there, but Io had said it needed to be stirred… So then… was there another spoon? I glanced around looking for one, but… nothing. How was I… I needed to get the spoon out, didn’t I? If I was really a witch — rather than just in my imagination — I’d be able to just levitate it out… It wasn’t fair… I could see the spoon, too; just barely make out its outline. Should I… Hmm… Io didn’t have the heat on… It was bubbling, but I doubted that was because it was still boiling. I was pretty sure that the bubbling was what made her bath a bubble bath. And with that being the case, I could probably… I swallowed, then quickly stuck my arm in the liquid, snatching the spoon, and yanking it back out. Phew. I was fine. No pain at all, just… warm. And then I blinked, staring at my arm, which suddenly looked and felt weirdly different. I… wait… I… Did it… Okay, but… sure, Io’s potions made her pretty, but, like… I was a boy! Why would… I swallowed. “How’s it going?” Io suddenly asked behind me, and I snapped around to face her, hiding my arm behind me. “I… uhh…” And suddenly the thought struck me that… if my arm could change with a touch of the potion… Maybe I could bathe in the potion too, and then maybe I’d be as pretty as my sister. Maybe I could wear a witch hat, and a skirt, and… No, no, no. What was I… No, I was a boy, that wasn’t going to change if I looked prettier… “What’s wrong?” Io asked, also sounding nervous now. She took a step closer to the platform. “You look like you’ve seen a ghost. Did you… is the potion okay?” I nervously took a step backwards, and… well, one step was too far. I tripped on the leg of the cauldron, landing right on its rim. It almost seemed like it was happening in slow motion. Tripping, landing on the rim, the cauldron starting to tip over as I weighed it down… My sister’s eyes widening in worry… The cauldron flipping completely on its side, dumping its contents over me... My sister catching the cauldron with her magic as I slid down off the platform, landing on the floor with a light thump.  As soon as it had happened, it was over. I sat there for a moment, in shock, dripping with the potion… And then the huge spoon fell down out of the cauldron and conked me on the head, and everything went black.  * When I woke up, wherever I was, it was nice and warm and cosy and soft. I didn’t really even want to move, if I was being completely honest. But apparently I must’ve made some kind of noise, because a moment later the blanket was pulled away from my face. “Hon? Are you awake?” I grumbled at her, blinking away the sleep. “I was so cosy, Mum…” She laughed to herself, looking halfway between surprised and bemused. “Are you… feeling okay?” I blinked at her some more. “I told you… cosy.” “R-right,” she laughed again. “Listen, umm… do you remember what happened, hon? You got a pretty good knock on the head…” “Do I remember what…” I mumbled, before… “Io’s potion!” I cried, my eyes shooting open as I sat up. “She needs that, and—” “Hey,” Mum said, hand going down on my head. I looked up at her, confused. It felt nice, though, her hand between my ears. “Do you… know what Io’s potion does?” Mum asked. “It makes her pretty,” I murmured, without skipping a beat. Why was it so easy to talk right now? It was like the words were just tumbling out, where before it was so hard to say anything… She laughed again. “No, sweetie, it… It keeps your sister looking like she’s supposed to. It’s a potion to… help someone be a girl.” I found myself blinking at her again. “And it starts to wear off after a month, so every full moon, Io has to brew another batch, and take another bath.” “I… I knew she used to be… or… she was born… well. Yeah. The potion is what makes her like the other girls?” “Yes, sweetie.” I swallowed thickly. “Is… is there still time? Can she make another potion?” Mum shook her head. “Don’t worry, your sister will be fine. I made a new batch together with her while you were taking a little… cat nap. She’s in the bath now.” I breathed a sigh of relief, and laid back down, only then realising just how weird I felt. It wasn’t bad — it was… good even — but… it was also completely alien.  “Do you… umm…” Mum asked, sounding more hesitant and quiet than I’d ever heard her before, like she was worried I’d shatter at the smallest thing. I’d been… coated in the potion, hadn’t I? Completely covered in it. Basically submerged. So… the potion helped people be girls, so did that mean... Was I a girl now? Err, well, did I look like a girl now? I… definitely felt like my body maybe might’ve kinda changed in that sort of way, but I was trying not to give too much attention to it because… I was a little embarrassed. But… was mum going to… uhh… “fix” this? Or… Would I… “Do I get to be a girl for a month, then?” I asked aloud, my voice hoarse as tears threatened to spill. I only realised afterwards that I’d said it in a way that… I’d admitted that I wanted this… “D-do you want to be a girl for a month?” she asked, clearly a bit surprised at me again. I didn’t answer, instead rolling over and burying my face in my pillow. Oh. I had boobs now. I… okay. Mum put her hand on my head again, gently running her fingers through my long hair. “It’s okay, sweetie. You can tell me anything, remember? No matter what your answer is, you know I still love you, right?” I hesitantly turned to look at her again. She… She was really making it seem like there wouldn’t be consequences for this… but… I knew I couldn’t be a… I finally just… gave her the smallest, quickest nod I could, before burying my face in my pillow again, the tears finally starting to flow. Why was I crying? Why was this so scary? Why was… I was… “Hey, hey,” Mum cooed, still stroking through my hair. “It’s okay, little one. You can be a girl. You can be my daughter. That’s completely okay.” But… I… “I’m not, though!” I finally cried, rolling away from her onto my side and tucking my legs into my chest. “I was… I didn’t… Io knew! She’s a real girl! I’m just… I’m just jealous. I’m not a real—” “Sweetie, that’s… that’s not how it works,” she interrupted, suddenly sounding in tears herself. “Is that why you’ve been so sad for so long? You knew you wanted to be a girl, but you thought you couldn’t be?” I couldn’t even form a coherent sentence, just starting to sob. But… I didn’t need to. She understood. Mum took me, then, picking me up in her arms and holding me tightly in her lap. I… I was… I was even smaller, now? “It’s okay, my sweet daughter. It’s okay now. You don’t have to be a boy anymore...” she cooed, hugging me close. “You’re safe, now.” I… I didn’t… I could… My mind felt pulled in every direction at once. I didn’t have to be a boy anymore? But… I was… I was always a boy. Io was so sure that she wasn’t, but I’d never had anywhere near that kind of confidence. “I don’t understand…” I cried, wiping my eyes. “I don’t know that I’m a girl, not like Io… but I can still… be one?” “It’s never about what you know. It’s always about how you feel.” I leaned into her chest as I sniffled, and she continued, “If you feel like being a girl is better, sweetie, then you can be a girl. No, I should say… then you are a girl. It’s as simple as that. That’s how it works for Io, too — she just figured it out sooner.” She was silent for a minute, just holding me against her, rubbing my back as I shed my tears and tried to think. Being a girl was just about... feeling? It was just about wanting to be a girl? But that... It couldn’t be like that. That’d be too easy. Was it... was it really okay? But she kept holding me close, rubbing my back and the top of my head, around and behind my ears in the most comforting way. I... felt safe. I felt like... maybe... it would be okay.  “I’m… I’m a girl,” I murmured, testing it out on my tongue. It felt… warm. “Mum?” I spoke up, swallowing the last of my tears. “I’m a girl, I think.” She smiled. “I think so too, sweetie.” * Fifteen minutes later, against my will, I was in the bathroom, stripped of my clothes. Apparently I needed to bathe in the potion as well, that way we’d make sure that the potion had completely soaked in, and wouldn’t start fading before the month had ended.  I hated baths. I… couldn’t get in. I was just standing outside the bathtub, my sister staring at me, my cheeks scarlet in my embarrassment, all my hair standing on end… So, maybe it was beyond a hatred of baths. Maybe it had progressed further than that. Maybe, just maybe, I was legitimately scared of the water. I hadn’t taken a bath in years, only showers, and I guess that, among other things, had turned them just really scary and unpleasant in my brain? Either way, it didn’t help that my sister was staring at me like that. “So,” Io said, crossing her arms over the side of the tub. “You’re a girl now too, huh?” “Umm… yeah,” I mumbled, looking down at my now-tiny feet. “Aren’t you gonna get in then?” she asked, like it was the most simple thing in the world. “It’s nice and warm, I’ve been keeping it from getting cold.” “I… I’m scared.” “Of what? Me or the water? Okay, well, to be fair, I am really scary.” “I’m not scared of you,” I pouted, still not meeting her eyes, shifting uncomfortably. “Oh my god, you actually are scared of the water, then?” she snorted. “You really are a cat!” I looked back up at her, tilting my head in confusion. “A... cat? What do you mean?” She stared at me. Then blinked. And blinked again. “Have… have you not seen yourself in the mirror? Or… like… paid any attention to your body?” “Well... N-no…” I blushed, looking down at my feet again. “Well, turn around, then, dummy!” I did so, hesitantly. What would I look like? Would it be... bad? Would it feel like I was being... gross or weird?  But in the end, I shouldn’t have been afraid. “Phew, the mirror is all fogged up.” She sighed, then snapped her fingers, and the entire mirror was suddenly crystal clear. And I jumped back, startled, because there was some catgirl there!  …Wait. I… wait. Huh? “Why am I a catgirl?” I mewled, watching as my ears flattened against my head and my tail tensed up behind me. “Why am I a human?” she countered. “I’m kidding, I have no idea. It kind of fits you though? You always were a little catlike... You know, liking fish and milk, how you’re always dozing by that window...” “I’m reading!” I pouted back at her. “Uh-huh,” she said. And you know... I don’t think she believed me!  I shook my head and turned back to the mirror, leaning in close to take in every little detail. I… I was a girl. I was really a girl. Completely. And instead of feeling like I expected — that this was weird and gross and that I was actually supposed to be a boy — all I felt was… happy.  I got to be this person. This girl. I got to be pretty! I got to have these fun ears and a tail, even! Most people didn’t get to have that! “You’re really cute too, if it matters,” Io said. “Also, you look like the little sister now too,” she said, and I glanced around in time to see her devious smirk and the glint in her eye. “I…” I flushed, my ears twitching. “We’re the same age, though.” “Tell that to literally anyone else and they’re going to laugh at you,” she smirked. “Anyway get in the bath you silly cat!” “I…” I stammered. “But…” “Do I need to levitate you into the bath?” she threatened. I got right in after that. “So, whatcha gonna change your name to?” Io asked, a bit later. “Mum suggested…” I shifted uncomfortably, struggling not to be embarrassed about it. “Iris. Because my life was like a storm and this will be the rainbow… or something…” “That’s… adorable,” Io said. “Yeah, that fits. And we match, too!” I gave her a happy smile, even though I was also pretty sure I was blushing furiously. “Now the only thing we don’t match on — well, besides the whole ‘surprise catgirl’ thing — is that I’m not a witch.” And then my mood dropped a bit, thinking about how sad that really was. I wasn’t going to have issues talking anymore, apparently, but… I still wanted to be useful. I still wanted to be able to do the things that my mum and my sister could do. I still wanted to be one of the witches. But I already knew that… I never would. But rather than being sad for me, Io just burst out laughing. It was a complete and total giggle fit, so much that I thought she was having trouble breathing. “A-are you okay?” I asked. “You… you are a witch, dummy!” I looked at her for a moment, wondering if she was playing some kind of trick on me or something.  “For one thing, you’re a girl and you helped me brew a potion. Therefore, witch. But if you’re not satisfied with that... you know that any girl can do witch magic if she tries hard enough, right? So why the heck would you not be a witch, if you wanna be?” I mean… I’d tried doing magic before, though? So hadn’t that disproved that I was a witch? “But I’ve never been able to do witch magic,” I tilted my head. “It would’ve been nice, too… then I’d have known I was a girl without today’s fiasco.” She smiled. “It doesn’t work like that, Iris.” I felt a warmth in my tummy as she said my name, and I couldn’t help but sink lower in the water, smiling. She shook her head and sighed, “Haven’t you read, like, a ton of magical theory?” “Umm. Maybe? Yes…” I hid my face. “But it was mostly about the fun spells…” She snorted. “Well, little Iris. A witch’s magic is not just something that happens or whatever. It’s something they cause. Witches have strong wills, and ones born twisted like us have even stronger ones, usually.” Well... okay. That explained why I wasn’t a witch, didn’t it? I’d always been fickle and had no confidence in anything, after all. “As Mum explained to me,” Io continued,  “‘You must will your magic into being, just as you will your identity into being.’ So basically, a witch is just someone who believes she’s a woman with magic. Nothing more, nothing less. And you definitely believe you’re a woman, right?” “I’m thirteen...” I mumbled. She rolled her eyes. “You definitely believe you’re a girl, right?” I took a shaky breath, giving her a small nod. She was right on that front. I definitely believed that I was a girl now — at this point, I had a feeling that if I transformed back, for some reason, I’d burst into tears. It was easy to assume that that wasn’t normal for a boy.  But believing that I was a witch? Could I believe in myself to that degree? Could I believe in my ability to do what my mother and sister did? What I couldn’t ever do before, what I was expecting to be stuck without for my whole life… “Iris,” my sister said, startling me from my thoughts. She looked worried about me, and a little sad. I realised then that I’d started crying again. “Hey,” she said, getting closer to me with a splash. “It’s okay. I promise. This is something you can do.” “How?” I whispered. She gave me a hug. “You’re one of us. You know you are. You can do anything you set your mind to.” “I don’t know,” I whined. “Iris, I’m going to shut off the lights.” “Wh-why?” I asked. “You’ll see,” she said, and then I saw nothing. “Also, close your eyes.” “O-okay…” “Do you remember how to make a fairy light?” I nodded, before realising she couldn’t see me. “Mm.” “Do it.” I took a deep breath, and then traced the symbol in the air. “Glow,” I whispered. “Nothing happened, right?” I asked. “Nothing happened, but that’s okay. It was your first try. You’re a witch, right?” “I… don’t…” “You’re a witch, right?” “Y-yes.” I agreed, trying to internalise it. “Say it.” “I’m a witch.” “Like you mean it,” she ordered, except this time I could hear the smirk in her voice. She was right, though. “I’m a witch!” “Good girl. Now be a good witch and make a fairy light!” I took a deep breath, and drew the symbol again. “Glow.” “There!” Io said, and I saw a light through my eyelids.  Shocked, I opened my eyes, and… nothing. It had already gone away… “You did it, Iris,” my sister said. “Can you do it again for me?” “O-okay,” I said, but this time my stammer was for excitement rather than hesitance. I… I really was a witch? I was a witch! One last time, I drew the symbol. “Glow.” In my mind, I could picture it. Just like the light my sister had made for me, years ago, when I was struggling with a fear of the dark. Just like when I first thought that I wanted to be a witch too, like my mum, and like my sister— even if I’d never acted on that want. Just like the glow burned into my last happy memories. And it did. It glowed, and it did so just like I remembered. A small, blue light, hovering in the air before my hand.  I’d… I’d done it. I’d made a fairy light. I was definitely a witch.  Just for the heck of it I made a bunch more, blues and whites and pinks, the same colours Io had made all those years ago. By the time I was done, the whole room was filled with little glowing balls of light, and I was overjoyed. It looked just like when we were little... maybe even more colourful than before — was it just me, or had all of the colours gotten more vibrant? My sister was staring at me, grinning. Or smirking? “What’s so funny?” “I tricked you, you know.” “Wh-what? How?” She giggled. “I tricked you into believing in yourself. That first fairy light, when your eyes were closed? I did that. But the rest? No, that was all you, sis.” “I’m a witch,” I said. “I never doubted it for a second. The cutest cat witch in the whole family. Did you know your eyes glow in the dark, even?” Oh gods, way too many compliments. I felt my face warming up, before I suddenly realised, “Hey, wait, aren’t I the only cat witch in the whole family?” “Yeah, if I said cutest witch it’d have to be me instead.” I gave her a shove. “No, I’m way cuter! Have you seen my fluffy ears and tail?” “They’re very wet and flat right now, not fluffy at all. Hence, I’m cutest.” “I bet you Mum says I’m cuter when we get out of the bath. And put some clothes on.” “Oh, you’re on.” I… couldn’t help, then, but imagine being me, but in my witch attire. A huge, adorable witch hat adorned my head — my fluffy ears sticking through, of course — a pretty, pleated skirt, my tail swishing below. I even imagined myself at the cauldron once more. Stirring, but with magic this time, not my hand. I was a witch, after all. And I was happy. My life was idyllic, after all — now that I could see the colours. ChiriVulpes Want to read a bi, poly, animal-transformation heist thriller starring three thick eggs? I've released a new 19k short story on itch.io called Thick as Thieves. You can get it as part of a bundle containing 30 amazing trans stories for only $6.00: Santa's Secret Transfic Stash Vol. 2 Or you can get it on its own for only $1: Thick as Thieves Thanks for reading! Love you all!

In the world of Temini, somewhere on the main continent: “Congratulations, it’s a girl!” (?) A woman in her twenties, along with two other men, were in a room inside of a massive mansion. The woman, with blonde hair and green eyes, was holding a small baby. The baby had the same blonde hair as the woman, but had differently-colored eyes, one green and one blue. “Ha, the baby looks just like you, Camille!” (?) “Well, the hair looks similar, but it seems that she inherited one eye from both of us,  Jean.” (Camille) “Anyway, we promised that I would get to name it if it was a boy, and you would get to do so if it was a girl.” (Jean) After a few moments of thoughtful consideration by Camille, she said with a hint of satisfaction, “The baby shall be named Charlotte. Charlotte Miron.” (Camille) “Waaaa!” (Charlotte) As if right on cue, the baby started wailing after being given her name. Camille’s calm and happy demeanor was immediately replaced with one of panic and confusion as she asked the doctor in the room. “What should I do to calm the baby down?” (Camille) “I believe that cuddling the baby should help, my lady.” (Doctor) Camille immediately started cuddling the baby, and was filled with relief when the crying started getting softer. Afterwards, she started feeding the baby by letting her rest near her chest. Eventually, the wailing stopped and the infant closed her eyes, instantly falling into a slumber. After thanking the doctor for his time and dismissing him, Camille brought the baby through the decorated hallways of the mansion, to a room bigger than the last, about six metres by five metres. The room had a toy box, which was filled with many expensive toys for babies. There was also a big crib, which exuded an aura of wealth with the high-quality materials used to construct it. After gently placing Charlotte inside the crib, Camille turned off the lights. However, instead of using a switch, the light seemingly turned off on its own. This was done due to Camille having the ability to use life magic, one of the eight elements in the fantastical world of Temini. “I wonder what elements Charlotte will be able to use? I hope that she’s able to use at least two.” Camille mumbled to herself before leaving the room, where she went to the living room of the mansion. The living room was by far the biggest room in the estate, being a few times bigger than the baby room. The entrance to the room were two big doors leading into the room, where a massive chandelier hanging on the roof managed to light up the whole room. A gigantic rectangular table was stationed near the entrance, with several chairs around the side and two chairs at the front; seemingly fit for a ruler. Sitting in one of the seats in the front was Jean, who seemed ecstatic to see Camille arrive. His disheveled black hair and fit physique suggested that he was unprofessional, and his manner of speaking certainly supported the theory. “Hey Camille! Come take ya seat and let’s celebrate giving birth to a daughter!” She breathed a soft sigh before proceeding to her seat, and rang the bell positioned on the table near her. Moments after the sound rang around the room, a servant came into the room with a cart carrying multiple dishes. He placed them down on the table in front of the nobles, before taking a slight bow and leaving the room. “Please enjoy your lunch, my lords.” AppleRank Hi, I hope that you enjoyed that chapter! I'm very new to this writing thing, so I'll do chapters of ~600 words for now. It should be released on a weekly schedule, and I just plan for this to be a fun side project to do when I'm bored!

I hated when my sister had sleepovers. The house would always be absolutely filled with horrible, terrible things... cute girls and cute clothes and stuffed animals and giggling... and it all made me want to scream! I had it bad, really bad, but... I didn’t even know why it all... got to me like it did. No, all I had was my assumption that I hated all this girly stuff so much because I was... well.... a boy. One well on his way to becoming a...... man. And I guessed that....... boys usually hated their sisters’ sleepovers, right? So, clearly, I was just like all boys, as much as that notion made me sick to my stomach.  Speaking of which, that was also something I didn’t understand. Why did I feel sick when being considered the same as other boys? It didn’t make sense, right? I had no idea. Maybe I just really valued my individuality, or something? Or maybe it was specifically because of... uhh, girl trauma. Like, pretty often, my sister and her friends would roll their eyes at me and say “boys” as if I was part of some horrible.... boy thing. It was terrible, even more terrible than the sleepovers. Seriously, it wasn’t as if I had any control over me being... this! But unfortunately, I was, and unfortunately, sleepovers did have an effect on me. And, long story short, my sister was having a sleepover again, leaving me to hide in my room, under all my covers, trying desperately to block out all the laughter and giggles, and also trying to hold back a scream. There was another problem, too. Normally, I could just handle it. Normally, I could just hide until it was over. But today... today, there was a problem. See, it was about to be dinner time, and I was particularly hungry — turns out, skipping breakfast and lunch to read had backfired. And on top of that, Mum had ordered pizza. I loved pizza...  I didn’t know if I could handle hiding in my room while there was pizza to eat, which meant that I’d have to... I’d have to face all of those girls. I gulped, even just the idea of that sending chills down my spine.  They would... they would see me! And they would roll their eyes and say “boys!” I was terrified.  Maybe I should go without food today? It seemed like a good idea. It would be the hardest thing I’d ever done, but... to save myself from the eyerolls... And on top of that, I could always sneak down for a slice after they’d all gone to sleep, couldn’t I? Well, provided they didn’t stay up all night long, and also provided that they hadn’t eaten it all by that point. “Girls! Pizza’s here!” Mum called, and the anxiety in my gut rose to new heights. Or maybe that was hunger, because at that moment my stomach also growled. Still hiding under my covers, peeking out at the closed door, I listened as all the girls ran to the dining room, their footsteps like a stampede. And then the coast was clear. I could actually get past my sister’s room. But... did I even want to, anymore?  Like, if I wanted to head down for pizza, when I went into the room they’d still all see me!  And I knew for sure, the moment they did, they’d roll their eyes and go “boys!”  I really, really, really didn’t want that to happen... If only I had some way to hide. Like, I could turn invisible, maybe. I could grab a piece of pizza and then they’d watch the pizza float away, and maybe they’d complain about ghosts instead of boys.  Maybe that was unrealistic. I guess, instead of hiding, I could also just... blend in better. Like, maybe if they didn’t see me as a boy. I guess... I guess if they saw me as..... one of.......... them? That would definitely make things easier... B-but don’t get me wrong! I wasn’t saying I wanted to be a girl, of course not! I definitely hadn’t had this train of thought before. Well, okay, maybe a few times... A few times....................... a day.  But like, if I was a girl, I could blend in on nights like tonight! And that would be so much better. Unfortunately, though, I was not. But then again... Maybe I could blend in anyway... Maybe I could look like..... a girl....... You know, but without being a girl. And, like... the coast was clear. I could sneak into my sister’s room... with how many girls were staying over, I could probably find stuff to...... disguise myself. And then I could eat pizza, and no one would bat an eye. And then nobody would do the worst thing ever, either... the girls wouldn’t all immediately roll their eyes at me and go “boys.” Then again, as much as the idea did seem rather reasonable, I didn’t actually have any idea how to..... well........... disguise myself. As a girl. And it wasn’t as if I had time to learn, either. It wasn’t like I could just put on a wig or hair extensions and a bit of makeup. I didn’t know how to put on makeup, after all. Or hair extensions. If only, though, right? Then this would be so much easier. Finally I sighed. Even if I did try something like that, what if I was caught in the act? That would be terrible. Dressing up as a girl was embarrassing enough as it is, and it would be so much worse if I was caught trying to wear girl’s clothes and makeup by actual girls. I was pretty sure that in my shame I’d literally sink into the ground. Maybe past the ground, even, maybe in my shame I’d sink so far into the earth that I’d end up on the other side of the planet. So... yeah. That wasn’t the best of ideas. My stomach growled again as the smell of pizza wafted into the room, and I sighed again. I was terrified, horrified, and my stomach churned, but... I was also ridiculously hungry.  I would have to face the girls rolling their eyes and saying “boys” after all. I guess... I could always cross my fingers. Maybe this time it would be okay. I didn’t want to do this, but... slowly, dejectedly, I slid out of my bed and meandered my way to the dining room, only spending a few moments staring wistfully into the very pink and girly bedroom that the girls had vacated. When I got to the dining room, I peeked around the door frame, seeing the eight or so girls crowding around the table eating pizza and drinking soda. Maybe I could hide. Maybe it would be okay.  I took a deep breath, then stepped into the room....... Nobody had noticed me yet, and maybe they wouldn’t either. You could always hope, right.................? But then my stomach growled. And it growled loud. And then they all stopped and stared at me, and my sister laughed, “Was that your stomach? And have you seen your bed head?”  No, don’t... don’t say it........ She rolled her eyes. “Boys.” Every one of those eyes watched me as my heart shattered. Every one of those eyes watched me as, somehow, for once in my teenage life, it actually got to me. Every one of those eyes watched me as tears welled up and I turned around and tried to get away, my legs turning to jelly before I could get very far, a pitiful sob escaping from my lips as I crumpled just out of sight. “What did you just do?” I heard one of the girls ask.  “I... don’t know,” my sister said. “Lemme get out.” I tried to stop my tears, I tried to stop my sobs, but now that it had started I wasn’t sure I could. Where had this come from? I hadn’t cried in so long, and... From the dining room there was suddenly a lot of loud noises as the legs of chairs scraped against the floor and girls grunted and squeaked and squealed. “Ow! You stepped on my hair!” And then a moment later, footsteps came close, and again I tried to stop crying, but I couldn’t. It was weird, too, because I knew that boys weren’t supposed to do this kind of thing! And... well, so far, since puberty had started, at least, I hadn’t.  Maybe I wasn’t a boy after all? ...No, that would be ridiculous. “Are... are you okay?” my sister asked, putting a hand on my arm. “Why are you crying? Was it because I teased you about your tummy? And the bed head?” “I dunno,” I mumbled, my voice sounding squeaky and hoarse. I couldn’t look at her, either, I was curled up into a ball, and my eyes were squeezed shut anyway. “I’m... I’m sorry,” she said quietly. “I didn’t realise you were going to cry...” “I didn’t either,” I sniffled. “I... it hurts when you roll your eyes like that and........ say I’m just a boy.” “It... hurts when I say you’re a boy?” she asked, flabbergasted. “But... aren’t y—” “I don’t knooow!” I sobbed. “It just does!” She didn’t say anything, and for a second I wondered if she’d left me and gone back to the kitchen. Hesitantly, I opened my eyes and... she was still there! Staring right at me! I choked and closed them tight again. “I have an idea,” she said suddenly. “Can you get up? Come with me to my room, okay?” Reluctantly, I looked between her and the kitchen. Then my stomach grumbled in protest and for a moment I was terrified she was going to roll her eyes at me and say “boys” again, but for once she did not, instead wearing a guilty expression. “Please?” she asked. “O-okay,” I mumbled, and she smiled and dragged me up and away. And then I was in her room, surrounded by pink and by makeup, and by colourful clothes in a ridiculous number of styles, and by stuffed animals and all kinds of other girly things, and....... I felt so very out of place. “Why are we here?” I asked, my voice very tiny as I tried not to be ashamed while looking at everything. “We’re going to try making it so that nobody can roll their eyes at you and say you’re a boy,” she said, opening her closet and rifling through drawers and the racks. “What’s your favourite colour?” she asked. Wait, was she trying to... do exactly what I’d considered doing myself? Was she going to make me look like.... a girl?! But...... I was terrified of that! No, I couldn’t do it! What if the other girls gave me weird looks! “I... hate colours,” I said. She stopped rifling through the drawers, slowly turning towards me with a blank expression and then a long look.  “What’s your favourite colour?” she asked again, this time in deadpan. I looked at my feet, trying to ignore how hot my face felt. “Purple.” “Of course it is,” she said, turning back to the drawers. “Can you come here for a moment?” I slowly got a bit closer, and she rolled her eyes, and I tensed up, but all she did was yank me closer. “Hold this,” she pushed a purple dress into my arms. “And this. And these. And this. And this one too. Hmm... and... this.” Then, my arms absolutely filled with clothes, mostly purples, she pulled me away and had me dump them all on her bed. “Skirt, dress, or pants?” she murmured, tracing the clothes with her hands.  “Umm...” I started. “Sorry, wasn’t asking you,” my sister said. “I think... you’ll do best in a skirt.” “I... but...” “Please?” she asked me. I blushed and nodded again, and she reached up to pat my head. “Good girl.” And then my heart stopped again, but this time rather than being shattered, and horribly painful, I just couldn’t breathe. She’d... but....... I........... I wasn’t................ she......................... “Deep breaths,” she said, patting my back now.  I choked, and then coughed, and took a shaky breath, and another. Girl. Why had she... even if that was... I wasn’t...... I wasn’t a girl! So why did it stop my heart to hear someone say I was? After I’d spent a moment or two taking deep breaths, she patted my back again.  And then... “Good girl,” she said again, this time with a playful smirk on her face. That time it didn’t stop my heart, though, instead my pulse quickened and the blush on my face got much worse. I didn’t understand, I didn’t understand at all. Why was this having such an effect on me? I... I was pretty sure I liked it.  Why did I like being called a girl? Why did I like being called a good girl? Chills ran all throughout my body. “Okay, now put on this skirt, and this blouse, okay?” my sister said, shoving them at me before turning to dash back out of the room, shutting the door behind her. I gulped, feeling the clothes in my arms. They were soft... and they were pretty... and I was sure if I was a girl I’d love to wear them, but......... I wasn’t. I wished I was, but... Then again, this was probably the only chance I’d ever get to wear them. This kind of opportunity was a once-in-a-lifetime thing, wasn’t it? It just wasn’t normal for a........ boy to get the chance to wear...... girls’ clothes. So if I wanted a chance to experience what it would be like if I had been born a girl... this was probably my only chance. I swallowed again, then nervously pulled off my shirt and pants, very quickly pulling on the skirt and blouse instead. And then... I was just standing there, awkwardly, in girls clothes. They fit fine, but... My sister barged back into the room. “You did it! Good girl!” I blushed. “Okay, so, since you haven’t been shaving your legs and we don’t really have time to deal with that right now... lemme see if I have any clean thigh-highs. Also I can see your boxers, so we’re gonna have to deal with that too.” I choked. “H-how?” “Oh, I think I have some unopened panties,” my sister said, digging through her drawers again. “P-p-p-p-” “P-recisely,” she finished for me, then two long, black socks and something rolled-up landed on my lap. “You know what to do; I’ll be right back again!” And then for a second time, I was alone, but this time I’d been left with a challenge far more difficult. I was supposed to wear.................. panties?! At this rate my level of shame was so high that I was going to sink into the ground all the way to the other side of the planet, and I didn’t even need anyone to see me! I stared at the rolled up piece of clothing, at that small strip of tape keeping them rolled up.  At the same time as most of my brain was panicking... a little voice in there was telling me that....... they were just underwear. There was no real difference between them and anything I normally wore... Not any difference besides the fact that if I wore them, I wouldn’t look dumb with boxer shorts sticking out of this skirt... Hesitantly, nervously, reluctantly... I pulled them off, and unrolled the new pair of................ girls’ underwear. This was dumb. I felt dumb. I probably looked like a gross idiot. If anybody looked in here right now they’d see some........ boy putting on....... his sister’s......... underwear and they’d either burst out laughing or be absolutely disgusted. I was terrified, but...... I swallowed. I had to do it. Well, no, I didn’t have to, but...  Aggggh! Before I could think about it any more, I pulled them on and then took a deep, calming breath. Don’t think about what you’re doing. Don’t think about how gross this probably is. Don’t think about— Why did this feel better than the boxers? They were soft and a bit tighter, but also more elastic and... just... they felt better. I was so confused. Why wasn’t all underwear like this? I let myself fall onto the bed, sitting there in a white skirt and the pretty purple shirt and... I felt... strange. I hadn’t ever felt like this before. While my heart was still absolutely racing, there was also a growing sense of calm inside me that I’d never before experienced. Another minute or so passed by, and then the door burst open for the second time. I was still in the middle of pulling on the second thigh-high sock, and my sister ran over to me, practically skipping. “Oh, that’s turning out wonderful! You are going to be so. Cute.” I felt my face heat up again. “Don’t be mean,” I whined. She looked disappointed. “You don’t want to be cute, then?” “Oh,” I said. “Well... I mean... wouldn’t most people? I just... I couldn’t possibly be cute, I’m....... a........ you know. I’m not really a girl.” She shook her head. “I wasn’t joking, you really are going to be cute... But, well, we’ll save that topic for later. How do you feel about us doing something with your hair now?” I gave her a small nod. “Yes! Awesome, okay... So, have a seat over at the vanity, lemme grab my brush...” I did so and then she began to brush my hair, making generous use of a spray bottle of water to neaten my bed head. “Won’t my hair be too short?” I mumbled. Wouldn’t I need extensions or something? “Your hair is perfect just the way it is, I can style it to look nice and girly. Well.. unless you want it longer. Do you want extensions?” My face warmed and I looked down again. “I will take that as a yes,” my sister laughed. ~ My hair... was long. Okay, well, technically it wasn’t my hair, but it felt like it was my hair, and it looked like it was my hair, and it was long. I stared at the mirror, completely transfixed. Something so simple really made such a big difference? “See? What did I tell you. Cute!” my sister giggled. I glanced at her, then back at me, and this time I could see just how red my cheeks were. Besides the blush, though, we didn’t really look that different... and.... I liked it.  Why did I like that? Shouldn’t a...... boy hate looking like............. his sister? I was so confused.  I liked looking like a girl, and I liked wearing girls’ clothes, and I liked being called cute... it all made me... happy. I’d thought I hated girly stuff... it had always made me uncomfortable before, but... now that I was in it...  It felt normal. It felt good. For the very first time in a very long time, I realised that I was smiling. And my sister realised it too, and I was pretty sure she was about to have a meltdown with how excited she looked. She suddenly spun around, squealing something that I could barely make out, something about “being a sister” or something, and then dashed out of the room, leaving me alone to just blink at the empty doorway. I turned back to the mirror and smiled again, and a tingling warmth appeared in my tummy. Was that... butterflies? Wasn’t that supposed to happen when you had a crush on someone? Did I have a crush on myself? Okay, no, that didn’t make any sense. But still... why was I so... happy? I waved to my reflection, and all I saw was a cute girl waving back. That was... me! “Hi!” I said. Ew! I sounded like... I sounded like......... a boy. No, I didn’t want to sound that way. “Hi,” I said again, hesitantly, this time in a higher pitch. “Hi. Hi hi hi hi hi.”  It sounded weird. I didn’t really like it. Maybe there was something that I needed to change other than the pitch? I just... I already looked a lot like my sister, and I really wanted to sound more like her too. ...How would she say hi? Maybe I could try to sound like her?  “Hi!” I said again. Oh! Okay. That’s already way better. “Hi! Hi! Hello!”  And then the feeling of butterflies was even stronger. I liked this. I really liked this. I was able to sound cute! “Hi!” I started, waving at the mirror again. “My name is—” But suddenly my sister burst back into the room. “I have returned!” she shouted. “Along with the rest of the... Girl Squad!!” I looked over, immediately shrinking back in nervousness. I... I wasn’t ready. There were eight girls all looking at me, judging me, and.......  What if they didn’t think I looked like a girl? What if— “You have a sister?” one of the girls abruptly asked. “I have a sister!” my sister declared, her fist raised high. “Isn’t she adorable?” The girls all nodded in agreement, and I shrunk down even more, hiding my face behind my hands. It was one thing to think I was maybe a little cute, it was another thing entirely to have a bunch of girls all say I’m adorable! One girl off to the side spoke up. “Why is there a pair of boxers on the floor?” Everyone stared at the offending underwear in shock. Including me. I...... I hadn’t had a chance to clean up! What was I supposed to do? How would I get out of this one?  Why did my sister already bring the rest of the girls back without us having a chance to  clean up? “Well, girls, something magical happened tonight,” my sister said, stepping over to the dreaded red boxers. She bent down, pinching the waistband between her fingers, then lifted them up and ever-so-carefully dropped them into a nearby trash can.  I breathed out. Good, they were gone.  “You know about my brother, yes?” my sister then continued. The girls all nodded, and I blanched. “Well, he is no more!” my sister shouted, raising her fist again. “Gone, I say! Vanquished!” ...What? “Wow!” one of the girls gasped. “You killed him?!” “Yes!” my sister grinned. “Wait, no, don’t be ridiculous. I just turned him into a girl. She’s my sister now.” And then she gestured back towards me and I felt like my whole ‘sinking the entire way through the earth’ theory might come true after all. “Well, that’s great! Because boys are dumb and gross!” one of the other girls said. A few others nodded in agreement. I nodded as well — What? I mean, it was true! — and then I felt a rush of warmth as I realised that they weren’t saying I was still a boy. They were..... accepting me as any other girl, even though I........ wasn’t, and my sister had just been talking nonsense............. I felt like I was going to tear up again. “Anyway!” my sister said, revealing her other hand, which had been holding the basket of makeup supplies I’d seen before in Mum’s closet. “Does anybody know any makeup? Because I wanna make her even cuter,” she grinned.  A few girls raised their hands. “Perfect! And then we can do her fingernails too!” ~ Being a girl was probably the strangest thing I’d ever experienced. It wasn’t... hard, it was just... different. And it made me feel so much better about the sleepover. Now that I was one of them, I could just have fun and relax along with them, and that was infinitely better than having to listen or see from the outside. And for the whole night — the whole sleepover... I was with them the whole time. I was with them as they finished giving me my makeover (duh)... I was with them as they watched a rom-com (it wasn’t very good, but it was kinda funny and made waaaay more so because I was alongside a bunch of other girls giggling about it)... Well, okay, maybe I wasn’t there the entire time — I did have to take a break at one point to have a bit of the pizza. You know, so that I didn’t starve. I probably would have just let it happen, but my stomach had growled embarrassingly-loudly at the end of my makeover and they’d all pushed me to the kitchen, where I’d eaten a slice of pizza and Mum had stared at me, blinking in confusion. But, yeah, point being, I was part of the whole sleepover. I was with them as they played spin the bottle, I was with them as they had a pillow fight, I was with them that evening as they all began to set up their sleeping bags and we started having a conversation about crushes... There was just so much! And it was all fun! Honestly, I didn’t think I’d ever laughed so much in my entire life. Or... no, that had probably all been giggling, not laughing. Because my laugh maybe got a bit girlier because of the whole voice thing I was doing, I guess? And then, sometime after the movie, and while the rest of the girls prepared their sleeping bags, my sister sat down close next to me on her bed and leaned against me. It was warm... a warmth from inside me, one I’d only ever experienced today and that I still wasn’t familiar with.  You know... I hadn’t been at all comfortable being so close to my family in a long time...... as long as I could remember. But now... as a girl, I actually was.  So, I leaned in close as well, resting my head on my sister’s shoulder. I swear, at that I actually did tear up again. “Thank you,” I whispered, trying not to choke. “No problem, sis,” she said, patting my leg. “I’m happy you’re happy.” “I’m so happy,” I murmured. She didn’t say anything for a moment, and we watched as the girls fought each other in front of us, a desperate king-of-the-hill battle over who got the spot closest to the heat vent. (The weather was a bit chilly and that spot would be warm, obviously. It was valuable!) “I’m sorry I never guessed that you might be a girl,” my sister finally said. “...What? I only just became a girl tonight.” She gave me a long look. “Umm... Okay, do you think you’ll ever want to be a boy again?” “Ew! No! Blech!” I stuck out my tongue for effect. “Okay... if you’d known how happy you’d be as a girl, do you think you would have wanted to be one back then?” “Probably!” I said. “I’d never realised that the reason I hated sleepovers so much was because I couldn’t be part of them too. And... it was maybe more than just hating sleepovers, too... I maaaaybe thought I hated a whole bunch of stuff that now I think I was actually just jealous about... Honestly, if back then I’d known I could just... be a girl, and that it would make me this happy, I think I’d have really wanted to!” “Then... sis...” she gave me an amused smile. “Weren’t you always a girl?” “...What? I don’t understand.” She sighed and pulled away, and I pouted at her. Her shoulder was leaving... but it was so comfy...  And then she tapped my forehead with a finger. “You. Can be a girl. Even if your body” — she gestured to my whole body — “is not. And wasn’t that the case before now? Why else would you have been so jealous if you weren’t a girl the whole time?” “I... I don’t know,” I admitted. “Maybe you have a point.” “Of course I have a point! I’m a genius. You saw the way I dealt with the whole... boxers situation, right?” “Okay... yeah, that was pretty good.” She shot me a smug smile. “Thought so.” We sat there for another moment, then, watching as one of the girls — the final king-of-the-hill — cackled maniacally while pointing and laughing at all the losers. “I guess I’ve always been a girl, then,” I said. “That’s... huh.” At that moment, someone cleared their throat at the door. “Okay, girls,” Mum said. “I know you’re all excited, but it’s getting late now. I can see that all your sleeping bags aren’t set up... And how many of you still need to brush your teeth? And put on jammies?” All of us raised our hands. “That’s what I figured,” Mum laughed. “Go on and brush your teeth, girls. One at a time, okay? Don’t go poking each other’s eyes out with your toothbrush or elbowing each other to get to the sink.” And with that the stampede of girls all ran past, leaving just Mum, my sister, and I. Mum gave us a look, then pulled the vanity stool close and took a seat. “So it looks like I have two daughters tonight, huh?” she smiled. I looked down at my feet, feeling that blush come back. “Yeah,” I squeaked. “You look very cute, honey,” she murmured, carefully reaching close and brushing my hair behind my ear. “Do you have something to tell me?”  she asked, giving me another gentle smile. “I... I think I was supposed to be a girl, Mum,” I mumbled, feeling my eyes getting misty again. “I’m sorry, I...” “Hey, shhhh,” she said, leaning close and pulling me into her arms, and then gently rubbing my back. “It’s okay, baby girl. It’s okay.” And then the mist turned into tears, which turned into sobs that I knew were completely melting away the makeup I was wearing.  “I hated not being part of this,” I cried into her shoulder. “I hated having to watch... I hated when I was lumped in with boys...... I hate boys...” “You hate boys?” my sister interjected, smugness audible in her tone. “You sure seemed to blush a lot when we were talking about the cute ones earlier...” “That’s... that’s different!” I said, sobbing paused only to glare at her, my cheeks hot. “Okay, well... fine, I hated being a boy.” Mum ran her fingers through my hair, then. “You never were,” she said, and a fresh wave of tears began. “You never were. I’m sorry I never realised, my sweet daughter. I’m so sorry.” She hugged me tight. “Things will get better now. I’ll make sure of it.” I wasn’t sure how long I was in her arms, my heart warm, hot tears continuing to streak down my cheeks. It lasted long enough that eventually the other girls started coming back, one at a time. “You two should probably head off to brush your teeth as well,” Mum murmured, brushing my hair out of my face one last time and giving me a warm smile, one which quickly turned to a sigh. “Did you two get into my makeup?” My sister blanched. “It was for a good cause!” Mum rolled her eyes at us. “Girls.” I couldn’t help it, I grinned, another round of butterflies fluttering around my tummy. That was a group I was okay being part of. ChiriVulpes Hope you enjoyed! This one's been sitting finished since back at the start of January, but finally finished editing it today. Uploaded it as soon as it was ? This is probably going to be the last of content you see from me for a while again — I do have two other finished short stories, but one is a Patreon and itch.io exclusive and the other isn't edited yet. You'll see the latter someday! I just haven't gotten around to it. Oh! There is actually other content from me I can point you to — I played a big role in outlining and editing Dissonant, a trans coming of age story about a foxgirl with a complicated family history struggling through a dangerous, mysterious world. The story is in its climax now, and will be getting new chapters every other day for the next week or so before it concludes. Check it out!! Anyway, if you wanna talk about my stories, feel free to join my Discord server. You can also join the fluff4.me Discord server if you wanna hang out with a big community and talk about all kinds of trans stories! Also, I should note that I do have a Patreon, with a rather ridiculous number of exclusives right now (most are incomplete, but there are multiple completed stories on there — see Polyclueless, and Something's... Witchy). And I haven't even charged my patrons for like five months because I've had very little writing output ? So yeah, now's the time to join if you just wanna see my exclusive content! Thanks again for reading! See you next time! ?

Unholy_Student Listened to these songs while I wrote this chapter: Song 1, Song 2, Song 3, Song 4, Song 5 My discord: https://discord.gg/CMZm2uJ Let me know your thoughts on the chapter down below in the comments, and if you see any mistakes, please let me know in the comments! Have a good day! Greetings, my name is A'kuh, one of the few Ancient Yautja apart of the Council of Ancients. I am one of the oldest members of the Council and the most active. I am over 1,500 years old and still hunt and gather trophies. I have gathered so many trophies from my hunts that I have the most extensive collection of trophies of all the Ancients and have been undefeated in battle. And although other Yautja held great respect for my achievements, I was still despised by most due to my...beliefs and practices. You see, I was probably the only bisexual Yautja to exist, something considered appalling and disgusting to my peers. The Yautja are quite the serious people, and due to my way of thinking, beliefs, and knowledge, I was one of the most hated but respected Yautja on the Council of Ancients. Now, how did I become Bisexual, you may ask? It all started when, during one of my many hunts on a small backwater world, the inhabitants called 'Earth,' which translated to 'Dirt' in my language. Why would they call a planet such a thing was beyond me, but I just put it up as one of their quirks as a species. The Humans, the intelligent species that lived on the planet, are on the 'third world war' they called it. I had participated in the previous 'world wars,' and this war was even dangerous to the few Yautja that participated in it, even me. Humanity was one of the most intelligent and cunning races I have ever faced and one of the fastest-growing. Within a few centuries, this short-lived species advanced from fighting with cold metal weaponry such as swords to industrialization and crafting primitive firearms that fired propelled objects at fast speeds. They even discovered Nuclear Weaponry early on in this civilization, which is possibly why they knew the dangers of the weaponry and only used it as a deterrent to ensure their survival. While Humanity was rapidly improving in technology and culture, they still fought and waged wars over simple and irrelevant things. During the third world war, they used primitive energy-based weaponry and simple energy shields and armor. During this war, I hunted both sides of the war and came across an unusual scene. A lone human soldier was fighting against hundreds of other humans in a jungle. For days this lone human fought against the other side all by himself, killing dozens and showing great skill that would put many Yautja to shame. For the first time in my life, I felt arousal for the same gender, something which perplexed me at the time since, in all my years of existence, I have only felt attraction towards females of my kind. With this human male stuck behind enemy lines and fighting for his survival, I ended up helping him, giving him food, medical supplies, and help every once in a while. The longer I watched, protected, and helped this human, the more I noticed I started becoming attached. To stop this, I got on my ship and decided to leave, but when I flew over his camp in the dead of night, I noticed he was surrounded and fighting for his life with what little he had to use against his enemies. Feeling worried, my feelings overcame my beliefs. I landed my ship without active camouflage and started killing the soldiers attacking the male left and right with my Combistick and plasma cannon. The enemy was afraid, their weapons did nothing to me, and I killed scores of them without them being able to retaliate with my energy shield active. Eventually, all were dead except the lone male and me. He saw me, and I saw him. He was covered in injuries, minor and significant, and in my worry, he collapsed. I rushed over to him, brought him onto my ship, and placed him in my med station. He survived, and I watched over him for many hours until he eventually awoke. At first, he was scared, but with time he grew more accustomed to my presence and the fact that I was not human and that we were in my ship floating above the planet. Eventually, he asked questions about me, my race, and what laid out in the Universe. And I answered. We grew closer until I eventually took off my armor and let him see what I looked like beneath my helmet. And to my utter surprise, he didn't seem afraid...as all others of his species have been when they looked upon my face. Eventually, he asked to leave my ship and return home. And I followed. He was awarded a 'Medal of Honor,' some token that symbolized that he went far above what was expected of their soldiers. He soon retired and returned to his home in a country called 'The United States of America.' When he saw that I followed him home, he welcomed me, started showing me what Earth had to offer, and I found I started enjoying myself and my time with him. Humanity was an incredibly creative species, creating technology and entertainment that put the entertainment of my species to shame. He showed me 'Games,' 'Movies,' and so much more that kept raising my view on Humanity. And a few months after I met him, we made love. It was awkward initially, but Tobias, the name of the Male Human, guided me along the process of mating with a male, something I found as pleasurable as mating with a female. From there, Tobias continued teaching me the ways of pleasure and Earth's culture. By the time five years had passed since I met Tobias, I decided to gift him my blood. By now, he knew that I would live much longer than him and the ways of my people. I asked if he would be my bondmate, and he agreed. I gave him my blood, greatly enhancing his vitality, strength, and lifespan. But in the end, my blood was not enough to save him...he died to another human who broke into our home. I killed the intruder but could not save Tobias before he succumbed to his injuries... I gave him a proper burial and mourned for several months. After that, I left Earth and returned to Yautja Prime, where I had to explain why I went missing, and from there, the truth was revealed as they had magic to pry the truth from my lips, whether I wished or not. Something I was an expert in, as were the other Ancients. It didn't take long for most Yautja to know about my time on Earth, and while I received a lot of ridicule, I answered in kind by dueling with anyone who dared to ridicule me to my face, even the other Ancients. I was soon feared and respected by the other Ancients, and time passed. Two centuries passed in the span of an eye as I never once mated with a female or male since my time with Tobias, which perplexed many Yautja, young and old. Depressed and lonely, I made the solemn decision to do one last hunt, one which I was destined to die from. I informed my peers and ignored their outcries against my decision. While they hated and felt disgusted by me, they couldn't get rid of me, seeing as I was the best of the Techmasters, a group of Yautja responsible for building our race's weapons, armor, ships, and so much more. To make problems even worse, I was also one of the best Enchanters and Magicians of our Race, with less than a dozen above me. I gathered months of supplies, weapons, and medicine. Then, I embarked on the homeworld of the Xenomorphs, one filled with countless Hives, Queens, and even the elusive and most dangerous prey my kind has ever encountered, the Xenomorph Empress, a Xenomorph that could control other Queens. From there, I landed my ship on the surface and started fighting against the countless Xenomorphs that rushed towards my ship. Having placed down plasma cannon turrets around the ship's perimeter and using my weapons, I began laying waste to the Xenomorphs. It didn't take long for the Queens to join the fun. Focusing on the Queens, I started taking them down from afar while the turrets took out anything that got too close. But as the time passed, the horde only got more significant in size, with more Xenomorphs joining the horde charging at me. It didn't take long for the turrets to overheat and stop firing, leaving me alone and being overrun by Xenomorphs. Still, any that got close to me was killed within moments by either my combistick, my plasma cannon on my shoulder, or the magic I wielded in my free hand. I laughed with glee as their acid blood fell upon my armor and burned through it. Tossing my ceremonial armor to the side, I fought for what felt like hours as injuries quickly covered my body. And just as I was about to kill another group of Xenomprhs lunging towards me, I felt the ground quake and a queen's tail pierce through the ground and into my chest. Coughing out blood, I smiled and clicked my mandibles in a mocking laughing manner as I heard the familiar beeping of my wrist gauntlet's self-destruct activating. With my laugh echoing the surroundings, the Xenomorphs seemed to sense the danger as my ship began beeping along with my wrist gauntlet. Within 10 seconds, an atomic explosion so large that the explosion instantly vaporized anything with thousands of miles came from my gauntlet and ship. Countless Xenomorphs died, taking out thousands of small nests and dozens of Queens, but with the size of the Xenomorph's planet, it was barely any damage to the population, and it would soon be replenished. Awakening with a severe headache, I found I couldn't move my body and could barely feel anything other than a cold surface on the back of my body. Opening my eyes, I found myself lying on a cold metal bed in an empty room with two doors, one at the side of the room in a corner and another at the other side of the room. But that's not where my attention was focused. Instead, I gazed upon my body. I quickly knew when I awoke that I felt smaller, weaker, and slower, and it's what concerned me the most when I awoke in this empty room. "I died...so...why am I here? What's happened to my body? Did I regress in age and become a Young Blood again? No...I am confident that I died... Perhaps I am with Paya on his hunting grounds? No... it's said to be a Jungle, not...wherever this is. Mabye...Mabye it's the 'Reincarnation,' or 'Transmigration' Tobias spoke of so much in our time together? A situation in which a person is placed in a new world or reality by a Divine Being in the same body or a new one. Although, if it were reincarnation, I would have to be a baby, and currently, I am not. So, Transmigration, what do I remember of it... Tobias said that Transmigration would be when a person is placed in a new place with the same body, sometimes younger or of the same age. And I seemed to have regressed in age to a Young Blood. And something that both situations had in common was that the person typically had something called a 'System.' And what made me think that I had this 'System' was the floating screen before me. 29 Days, 23 Hours, 59 Minutes, 59 Seconds until System Activation Either I was still in the last throws of life, and my brain conjured something to distract me from pain, or this was real. I looked to find that I had only the clothes on my body, no weapon, no armor, nothing. I first walked over to the door in the corner of the room, trying to get used to my new senses and body. The room was incredibly dark, with the light above the room being incredibly dim as if it wasn't getting much power. Opening the door revealed a small bathroom. Searching it, I found a few things, some unknown medicine, a white strapped bag with what looked to have some more unknown medicine, bandages, and vials of unknown contents next to what looked to be a...device fitted with a syringe. Stuffing all the medicine in the bag, I tossed the strap under my arm and over my head before slinging it behind my back. Moving over to the other door, I noticed a panel next to the door and clicked one of the three buttons, each button was dim, but I could see that they had symbols engraved on their surface. On the middle button was a symbol of a lock, on the left button was a symbol of an open door, and on the last button was a symbol of a closed door. Sliding open, the door suddenly stopped as the panel by the door seemed to short circuit and popped with a few sparks. Not wanting to get locked inside if the door closed, I quickly dashed into the hall. And what was revealed worried me. A long hall with dozens of doors on either side of me, and wherever I was, was clearly falling apart! Ceiling panels on the ground, something leaking from the ceiling, sparking wires hung from the ceiling, rubble littering the floor, and to my worry, were skeletons wearing very old clothes with obvious damage from time. Spoiler Quick fact, after looking it up, if a person were to die in space and on a space station/spacecraft, their body would be decomposed by the bacteria on their body, instead of mummifying your corpse if you died in the vacuum of space. Also, another fact is that if you were in space without a protective suit or something similar, you would lose consciousness within 15 seconds and die in less than two to three minutes. "10 seconds of exposure to the vacuum of space would force the water in their skin and blood to vaporize while their body expanded outward like a balloon being filled with air. Finally, their lungs would collapse, and after 30 seconds, they would be paralyzed—if they weren't already dead by this point." [collapse] However, what worried me, were the weapons lying next to their hands. Some seemed to be hilts with no blades, and others were rifles and pistols of unknown design. I should also mention some of these people wore robes and others armor. Spoiler Image [collapse] It was clear some battle took place here and left heavy damage to this structure. Grabbing one of the strange metallic hilts, I looked over it, seeing a button on its side. Pressing it, I jumped as a glowing blade of blue energy was edited from the hilt before suddenly fizzling out. I examined the hilt and wanted to take it apart but found that I would need some tools before I could disassemble it and examine its inner workings. I then moved over to one of the firearms to see if they would work, but as it turned out, the firearms were damaged from time, making them inoperable. With no functioning weapon, I kept one of the firearms and decided to use it as a club. With the hallway leading further into the structure both ways, I ended up choosing one direction and walking. As I walked for a few minutes, all I found were more corridors of rooms that I assumed were quarters and more signs of a battle taking place here. I also started noticing what looked to be...some robotic warbots scattered across the hallways, along with skeletal remains wearing a different style of armor. Spoiler Image and Image [collapse] It seemed that these people were the ones the robes figures were fighting against, and what confused me was that the opposing side had their own robed soldiers with their own energy blades, except these ones seemed to use different colors for their blades, from what I found they mainly had red energy blades, with a few purples. But just like before, these weapons were also too damaged for use. As I traveled through the many corridors, I eventually started questioning. Why were all of the bodies left? Were there any survivors that managed to escape? How large was this facility? Are there any other dangers hiding away within these halls? What was this place used as? As I walked and walked, I found more doors that led to more quarters, and I also found a few supply closets, which I used to fashion a makeshift spear from a broom handle, electrical wire, and some sharp metal I managed to peel off of a chunk of metal from one of the warbots. I also found some small robots that appeared to be a small metallic box with wheels. Each was hooked up to a charging pod built into the wall and seemed fully charged, just waiting to be activated. Spoiler Image and Image [collapse] Venturing deeper into the structure, I soon came across an elevator and a flight of stairs, and with the power of the structure, as is, I took the stairs, which led up and down the structure. When I stepped closer to the stairs and turned around, I noticed a sign above the door that read 'Residential Floor 1.' Going down to the floor below, this one read 'Residential Floor 2.' And on the floor above the first residential floor was 'Reactor/Maintenance.' Deciding to continue going up, I began trekking up the stairs, stopping at a particular floor with a sign that caught my attention. 'Hangar Bay.' "Fuck...I may be on a space station..." With the current condition of the structure, I was in, if it happened to be a Space Station and the hangar bay was empty, I may very well be stuck here. And with how old the station may be, I will more than likely starve or die of dehydration before I can escape... Venturing into the Hangar Bay, I felt relief flood my body as I noticed multiple old ships sitting in the hangar bay, and I also now knew for sure that I was on a Space Station. How did I know? Well, some transparent energy shield that somehow was still powered was protecting the hangar from the vacuum of space. Walking closer to the shield allowed me to get a good look at the station's surroundings, which revealed that the station was hidden within an asteroid field that was orbiting a gas giant. Knowing that if I wanted to leave before I died of dehydration or starvation, I motioned over to the space crafts, examining each one to see which would be my best bet in escaping this station. First, I looked at the options I had available to me. Spoiler Image, Image, Image, Image, Image, Image [collapse] They were mostly all in good condition, but due to their smile sizes, I doubt I would be able to go very far. And if I could, I would have used my magic to create a portal, but ever since I awoke in this station, I found that my entire Magic Foundation was reset, meaning I would have to cultivate my magic all over again! So, my only option was to try to repair and use one of these starcrafts to escape the station, and I could only hope that whoever made these ships was at least competent enough to make them capable of long-distance flight. I've lived long enough to know many ways of traveling the Universe, and based on the engine I managed to gain access to on one of the ships with some tools in a supply depot on the other side of the hanger, I felt much resentment for the incompetent person that made this ship. The engine, even if it did work, would only have worked at 45% capacity! And it also seemed that most of these ships had hyperdrive engines, a type of FTL engine that allowed ships to travel faster than light, and for some reason unknown to me, those people decided to use an incredibly risky FTL method! Hyperdrives essentially allowed a ship and everyone inside to travel through another dimension, vastly increasing the ship's speed, allowing the ship and everyone on the ship to reach a specific destination in days or slightly over a week! If I remember correctly, some ships would be able to travel the lengths of entire Galaxies within a matter of days! However, this is the only good thing about this way of traveling, and the dangers were much greater... If the engine failed, the ship was likely to be stranded in space, trap the ship in Hyperspace, or crash into a gravitational object such as a planet, blackhole, star, etc. It also had a chance of slowing down time around the ship, meaning when the ship exited the dimension and returned, they could be hundreds, thousands, or even millions of years into the future. There was also a high chance of being attacked by a shadow eater when traveling in the Hyperspace... So why in the hell would these people use this type of FTL?! I could name multiple FTL types that were much better than this! Like a Wormhole Drive, a warp drive, or a jump drive, even an Aether drive is better than FTL! Trying to calm myself and frustrate myself even more, I took  deep breaths and let out loud sighs. I had around half a month to an entire month before I starved or die of dehydration. I may be able to prolong this time if there are some sources of food and water hiding away in the asteroids. But first, I have to get one of these ships flight capable. After examining each ship, I found that the ship easiest to repair and make operable was the last ship[The last pic], a starfighter with no FTL engine. Not wanting to waste time, I immediately began fixing the starfighter's engine and, using the parts from the other ships, modifying the engine into a Rosen-Bridge Engine. Essentially, the engine would shoot out a beam of energy in front of the ship that would create a wormhole to another location, allowing the ship to travel a considerable distance at the cost of a lot of energy and no time. However, there is a downside to the Wormhole drive, wherever the ship is pointing is the direction in which the wormholes opens up, and the exit wormhole will be a straight path from the first wormhole and the nose of the ship. I had an idea on how to fuel the ship, but it required I make a Dark Matter attractor and a storage device to hold it. By the time six days passed, I had a flyable starship, left the station and gathered some ice from some asteroids, brought it back to the station, and melted them for water. I was also lucky enough to find some asteroid bugs and captured them for food. Their meat was horrid, but it would help me last a bit longer, and with the water, I should have enough time to finish constructing the Wormhole drive and gather enough Dark Matter to get me a good distance. I should also mention I have only gotten a few hours of sleep in all this time and have been working hard so that I could at least make it to a habitual planet. If I had the time and resources, I might have strayed on this station and modified it to suit my needs, but with the station's current condition, I did not want to stay and see how long it would last before the station's life support and reactor shut down. And while I could not stay here at this time, that doesn't mean I couldn't come back at another time and repair this station, molding it to suit my purposes in the future. ... Sitting down in the ship's cockpit, I began flipping several switches in quick succession before starting the engine. 'Fuel Capacity at 34%.' Noting my fuel meter, I grasped the joystick, gently lifted the ship off the ground, and began using a small amount of fuel in my front thrusters to help reverse the ship out of the hangar.  Once the ship passed the hangar barrier, I began turning the ship's noise away from the hanger before redirecting the fuel to the back thrusters to the lowest setting and piloting the starfighter away from the station. Carefully going around the asteroids surrounding the station, I flew deeper toward space before activating the Dark Matter attractor and opening the container I attached to the top of my ship. Dark Matter was one of the easiest and best energy sources in the Universe, with large amounts of Dark Matter existing almost everywhere in space and Dark Matter being rich in energy. The only problem was that it was incredibly hard to detect and even harder to gather, requiring a specialized machine to gather the Dark Matter. The one I managed to build from what I could gather from the station was primitive compared to the Machines I was used to using, but it would fulfill its purpose with great inefficiency. Once I was a decent distance away from the gas giant and its asteroid belt, I deactivated the thrusters, slowed the starfighter with my frontal thrusters, and activated the Dark Matter attractor. 'Dark Matter - 0.001%' I turned off all nonvital parts of the ship and let the ship drift into space at a slow speed. Thirty minutes later, I looked upon the console again. 'Dark Matter - 7.82%.' Scoffing in annoyance, I just lied back and waited. Hours later, and feeling hungry and thirsty, I again looked at the Dark Mater meter. 'Dark Matter - 79.31%.' Deciding that's enough for now, I restarted the ship's engine, directed the power to the back thrusters, and began flying back to the station. Once back, I slowly landed the old ship, unloading the Dark Matter attractor, and began transferring the Dark Matter into a small container while separating it from all foreign Matter. From there, I connected the battery to the Wormhole drive on the starfighter. With the amount of Dark Matter I currently had, I should be able to make a single jump, then use the rest of the energy as fuel to fly the ship to a planet. The problem is that I would not know what lies in whatever system I make my jump to and may not even have a habitual planet... So, while I would have much preferred to stock up on supplies and make the jump, I knew I had to stay at least a couple more days and hope I find more food while I gathered more Dark Matter and made another battery. While usually any Yautja could survive weeks without food or water, that's only when the Yautja in question is healthy and an adult, neither of which I currently am. So, I had to work hard for the next few days in order to get as much Dark Matter as possible for my W-Drive, and I had to make sure the ship was strong enough to be able to make the journey. Due to my limited tools and time, the ship looked horrid. Across its surface were many hastily welded metal plates that I pried off other ships, three large box-like containers attached to the bottom of the vessel, and several more modifications that made the initially nice, yet ancient, ship look horrendous. And while it may look horrid, these modifications were required. The metal plates around welded onto the ship's surface would help the ship if I were to enter an atmosphere, the containers stored all the Dark Matter I have gathered, and the other modifications I have made to this ship were to its electronics, scanners, and controls, allowing me better control and maneuvering of the ship. It's been 11 days since I arrived at this station, and while I did luck out and find several small asteroid bugs, they were few in number and not very nutritious, but they did allow me to work for another day before my weakened state progressed. Once I was sure I had everything I needed and triple-checked, I got into the drastically changed ship and ignited the engine, now fueled with Dark Matter. Now, I should inform you why not many use Dark Matter even though it's so plentiful and full of energy, and that's because of its behavior. You see, when made into energy, Dark Matter is quite...volatile, and if anything were to go wrong, your ship could spontaneously combust and explode. Also, if a living organism were to be exposed to the Dark Matter, it would die a very gruesome death, where their entire bodies would stop holding together and fall apart, typically causing what I referred to as a 'Meat Explosion' in which everything that made up a person, would explode into a bloody mist of guts, blood, flesh, waste, and everything else that made up the organism, and dissolve until nothing was left. And as far as I knew, Yautja and very few other races ever used Dark Matter, and it's because of this that my race has been able to stand atop countless Galactic Civilizations without any danger or repercussion to our species or planets, even with how much hatred we sowed across the Galaxy. Shaking my head from my thoughts, I focused back on reality and smiled when I felt the power of Dark Matter power and fuel the ship. Setting the ship at moderate speeds, I looked back to the end o the ship, making sure everything was alright, before focusing in front of me and flipping a newly installed switch and dial. Turning the dial halfway, I watched as a beam of energy shot out in front of my ship and into space before a crack suddenly opened in space, revealing the star closest to this system. And focusing more power on the thrusters, the ship flew straight through the crack before the wormhole closed behind it.

"Want to play Girly Chicken?" I blinked and stared at Evan, totally confused. Evan was my childhood friend and current roommate. Both of us were students at the Tiresias College for Mages. He was a pretty tall guy, skinny as a rail, with a fairly androgynous face. And if we're being honest, a fairly androgynous voice too. As for me? Well, I'm... average. Black hair, blue eyes. A couple inches shorter than Evan. Not skinny but not fat. Like I said, average. Oh, and my name is Jason. "Girly Chicken? What?" I asked. Evan was not acting like his usual confidant self. In fact, he was looking downright bashful. He was staring at the floor, looking nervous. "It's a game where you... um..." Now he was fidgeting, his hands balling up the hem of his T-shirt. "Slowly transform each other into a girl!" He finally blurted out. "And the first one to say uncle loses." Now it was my turn to look nervous. It sounded totally embarrassing! And yet, now that Evan had brought it up, something in me wanted to try it. I mean, what harm could there be? It just seemed fun. I couldn't help but start to imagine what kind of girl I would turn Evan into… "Okay," I said slowly. "Let's do it." Evan's eyes lit up, and a huge smile broke over his face for a moment, before hastily recomposing it into an expression of aloof confidence. I suppressed a laugh at his barely contained enthusiasm. *** Twenty minutes later, we were sitting on the floor, cross-legged, in the middle of a large transformation rune that Evan had whipped up. He had a natural gift for rune-carving, which was very convenient for this. It would make what we were about to do a lot less taxing. "So, um... who should go first?" Evan was fidgeting again. "Oh, you can go first, I don't mind." I saw a strange look come into his eyes for a second, but then it was gone. "Ha! Awfully brave of you. Let's see how you feel when your body starts becoming more and more effeminate!" He said with a cocky smile on his face. I clapped my hands together. "Well, lay it on me then!" Evan shut his eyes and the rune on the floor glowed. I swallowed nervously as his magic began to penetrate my body. This was the first time I'd ever been transformed, and I wondered how it would feel to have my body being warped and changed. The magic felt pleasantly tingly as it inched up my skin. It reminded me of the way my ex-girlfriend used to blow gently on my neck right before we got intimate. The magic finally stopped at my throat. I felt a delicate finger press against my Adam's apple, and then it started to shrink away into nothingness. After wondering briefly if that would be the only thing to change, I felt my throat shifting. I couldn't tell what was exactly going on in there, but I had a pretty good idea. Then the glow receded, the magic faded, and I was left with a transformed larynx. "Well, I-" My eyes widened as I heard my changed voice for the first time. It was high, perky and cute. It reminded me of an enthusiastic cheerleader, the kind of girl that Evan always swooned for. I blushed at that thought, and at the eager grin my friend had on his face. He didn't even bother trying to hide it this time. I put my hands on my hips and glared at him. "Oh, I'm starting to see where you're going with this! Well, now it's my turn!" I focused on the rune and closed my eyes. It took me a few seconds to decide what I was going to do to him. I heard a sharp intake of breath as the magic started to crawl up his skin, all the way to his head. I had always liked dark haired girls. So sexy and mysterious! So that's what I was going to give him. I opened my eyes and watched as his hair grew longer from the pixie cut he usually wore and darkened from its usual dirty blonde. It reached his shoulders and grew longer still, until it was at the small of his back. I giggled as he grabbed a handful of his new, jet-black hair, then immediately blushed at the unambiguously feminine sound that came out of my mouth. "Alright, are you ready for round two?" I asked quickly. He nodded eagerly, clearly loving every minute of our little 'game'. The rune glowed again. Within moments, his magic was surging through me. It was much faster this time. There was something slightly different about it, an extra tingle as it moved over my skin. I waited to see where it would stop, what it would focus on, but it just went to the top of my head and dissipated. I looked over at Evan and tilted my head quizzically. What had he changed? He laughed, enjoying my confusion. "Well, are you going to tell me or not?" I asked, and I couldn't help but pout, which only made him laugh even harder. "Oh no, this is way too much fun. You'll figure it out eventually." I sighed. Well, I might as well make it easier on myself at least. My specialty was illusion magic, and I had something up my sleeve that would be quite useful in this situation. I focused for a moment. A second later we were surrounded on five sides by Ephemeral Mirrors. Completely insubstantial, but perfect for reflecting light. I turned aside and stared into one, trying to figure out what had changed. "Ah!" I reached up to rub my face. It was completely smooth- not a hint of stubble. I remembered the magic had felt different on my skin this time, and so I reached up under my shirt to see if my chest hair was still there. Sure enough, it was gone without a trace. Then I couldn't help but wonder: had he removed the hair from my ENTIRE body? With a sense of foreboding, I pulled my waistband out a little and turned beet red at the sight of my completely smooth crotch. "Did you really have to shave my balls?" I asked petulantly through Evan's laughter. "All's fair in love and Girly Chicken!" He said, still laughing. "Well, in that case..." I fired up my magic and concentrated. In my mind's eye, I imagined what I was going to do to Evan next. This time, I didn't bother transforming his body. Instead, I focused on his jeans. They started to shrink down, smaller and smaller. The color and fabric changed as well, becoming black stretchy spandex. Soon his jeans had been reduced to a pair of tight women's bike shorts. I smirked at the look of discomfort on his face. He grumbled as he shifted his weight around to try and find a more comfortable position. It didn't look like he was having much success though. Finally, he sighed and turned his attention back to me. "So we're doing clothes now, is that it? Well, two can play at that game." I gulped, wondering what he was planning. I didn't feel any magic working on my body as the rune flared, confirming that he was changing my clothes as well. To my surprise, I felt my sweatpants start to creep up my legs. He was doing the same thing I did! Or was he? The gray fabric of the sweatpants was becoming white, not black, and it wasn't getting tighter. Instead, the legs seemed to merge together, while the material in the middle completely disappeared. He was putting me in a skirt! I watched as it got smaller and smaller, then became pleated. By the time it stopped, it barely came over my butt! "Really? A miniskirt?" I asked, folding my arms over my chest. "Why not? All the better to show off those sexy smooth legs of yours." His voice practically dripped with innuendo. My ears burned bright red at his words. But no! I had to stay strong! I'm not going to be the one who gives up. I shook my head and returned to the task at hand. What to do next? I grinned as an idea popped into my mind. To be honest, I’d always had a thing for strong girls. For a long time I’d nursed an idle fantasy of meeting the eyes of a cute girl at the gym, feeling a spark between us, followed by her shoving me against the wall and having her way with me. I focused, and soon Evan was changing again. It was time to fill out those tight shorts! I watched avidly as his butt plumped up, growing larger and swelling with muscle. It was looking so.. so... sexy! I felt a familiar stirring between my legs as I stared at the tight ass that I had just given Evan. Oh fuck, I was getting turned on by my best friend's ass! I shook my head as Evan craned his neck to try and get a look at his most recent change. I had to get this under control. With the tiny miniskirt I was wearing now, my arousal would be obvious if it got out of hand. "Enjoying yourself?" I asked with a giggle as Evan moved from merely looking at his new butt to groping it. He quickly composed himself and returned to the task at hand. "I guess we're finally kicking this into high gear, huh?" He said, with a devilish gleam in his eye. I gulped. What was he planning to do to my poor body next? I didn't get much of a chance to worry about it though, as he immediately started casting his spell. I knew instantly that something very different was happening. The magic was much more intense than anything that had happened so far. It felt like I was being squeezed on all sides by hundreds of hands. I was getting smaller! Evan was shrinking me! And despite what one might expect, it wasn't painful at all. It was more like a vigorous massage than anything else. The pressure lasted a few more seconds before it finally ceased. My head snapped to the closest mirror to inspect the damage. I had expected some change to my body proportions, but all that had changed was my size. It was hard to get an accurate read on how much I had shrunk, but I guessed that it was about six to eight inches. Luckily, Evan had the foresight to shrink my clothes with me, otherwise I'd be falling out of my miniskirt. Evan was grinning smugly. He had always been slightly taller, but he'd probably tower over me right now if we stood up. Well, this wasn't the time to worry about that. I had to think up something equally impressive! I clapped my hands together. Well, since I had just transformed Evans butt, I should move on to something close by... I know! I cast my spell, and soon the magic was flowing through him, focusing on his legs. They slowly changed shape, becoming smooth and toned. My thing for athletic girls was obviously coming through with my transformation spells. I felt another twinge of arousal as I stared at those thick thighs. "You know, the name of this game is GIRLY Chicken," Evan said teasingly, snapping me out of my reverie. "I'm starting to think you just want to make me manlier!" I put my hands on my hips and pouted. "Hey, girls can have muscles too!" "Oh, is that what you like in a woman? Big tits and big guns?" He teased, flexing his skinny arm. I fidgeted uncomfortably, trying not to make eye contact. He was absolutely correct though. At this rate, I could end up turning him into a total amazon! I needed to control my desires! Evan didn't waste any time casting his next spell. He seemed to be getting more and more sure of himself as the game went on. Once again, the magic traveled all the way up my body, then started molding my face. Oh, fuck! Was he really going to give me a new face? I mean, obviously it had to happen eventually, but the thought of looking in the mirror and seeing a girl stare back at me filled me with panic. And... maybe anticipation? No, it was definitely just panic. It was hard to tell what was happening just by the sensations alone. My lips, cheeks, nose and chin were being molded like putty. Then, it stopped. The first thing I noticed was Evan's face. He had a look of undisguised lust in his eyes. I shut my eyes and spun around. I wanted to take this in all at once. My heart beat faster and faster as I tried to work up the courage to open my eyes. When I finally did, I gasped aloud. The face that looked back at me was beautiful, in that understated girl next door sort of way. Lips just ever so slightly puffy, to form a perfect sexy pout. Brown eyes framed by long lashes, soft eyebrows, and a pert nose. Cheekbones sculpted perfectly, giving that wholesome yet sensual look. I looked like I was about to give my prom queen acceptance speech! It took me about five minutes to get over my new face, and when I turned around, I was greeted with another shock. Evan was still sitting there, staring at me avidly. But something was different. The tight black biker shorts that I'd given him were straining with an obvious erection. I turned away, my face bright red. I spent several uncomfortable moments trying not to look at Evan's reflection in the mirrors surrounding us. It seemed like the tension might stretch on forever, until Evan spoke to me in a clear, serious voice. "Jason." "Um, yes?" I replied, still looking away "Look at me, Jason." I turned toward him, despite myself. Evan always seemed to have an air of command. "Let's be real here. If we keep going like this, both of us are going to get... turned on." He said. I nodded, but said nothing. "Sooo, we shouldn't be embarrassed about something that only happens because we're playing Girly Chicken, right? I mean, it's perfectly natural for two straight guys slowly turning each other into girls to get aroused by each other, right?" He continued. An embarrassed smile broke across my face. "So let's go ahead and admit it then." He said, clearly and unashamedly. "I am totally fucking horny right now, aren't you?" My cock twitched underneath my skirt, as if answering his question. "Yes. Yes I am," I admitted bashfully. The mutual admission caused us both to laugh. For a moment, everything was normal; just friends goofing around. "I guess it's my turn, then?" I didn't bother waiting for a response, and just launched myself into it. Without realizing, I had settled into a pattern where I moved from one body part to another close by. So naturally, the next logical step was hips. They slowly widened, combining with Even's changed legs and butt to create a wonderfully toned lower body. I leaned over to stare at his reflection in the mirror, mesmerized. God, I loved muscles! "Thirsty, are we?" Evan taunted softly, pulling me back to reality. "You're one to talk!" I said, sticking my tongue out at him. He flashed me his mischievous grin before getting back to the game. I felt the familiar tingle of magic crest over my body until it reached my head and started to pour into my scalp. My hair started to cascade over my shoulders and back, longer and longer, until it was tickling my butt. I could see in the mirror that it was lightening as well, from my natural black to the honey blonde that Evan loved so much on girls. Once again, I couldn't resist staring at my own reflection. Other than my boyish figure and the rigid cock that was currently tenting my skirt, no one would think I was a man! "You really seem to be enjoying this!" Evan said, after another few minutes of silence passed. "With every transformation, you stop to admire the new features." He laughed playfully. "Well you know, it's pretty amazing seeing my body transform in front of me..." I mumbled shyly. "And don't forget about the new slutty clothing you're also getting to enjoy." He winked slyly, causing me to blush even deeper. "Admit it. You're not even thinking about giving up anymore, are you? You want to change completely. To become my sexy little wet dream." Every word of his made my cock throb harder and harder, until finally it was poking out from until my skirt, in full view of Evan. Before long, I was panting, unable to contain myself anymore. Fuck, I was so turned on right now. It was getting harder and harder to concentrate on the spells I was supposed to be casting, and Evan was looking quite smug as he watched the rune flicker uncertainly. But I did manage to get my spell off. Evan winced as he felt his waist cinch up slightly underneath his shirt. That was followed by a grunt as his normally skinny stomach swelled with muscle. I stared at what must surely be a very sexy six pack of abs and licked my lips. "You want to see what's under here, don't you?" Evan said, his finger hooked under his shirt. I nodded eagerly. He raised his finger ever so slightly, letting me see the barest sliver of tan skin, before letting it drop. I let out a girly little whimper of disappointment, and Evan giggled. "Sorry babe, I’ve got to save something for later." "You are such a fucking cocktease!" I whined petulantly, crossing my arms and pouting. "Aw, is that thick, hard cock between your legs bothering you? Maybe I should help you with that problem." Evan smiled wickedly. I barely got a chance to process what he said before his next spell overtook me. "Ahn~" I moaned for the first time with my new voice as I felt my cock teased and stroked by his magic. It was shrinking! My cock was shrinking! Slowly at first, but quickly picking up speed as it grew smaller and shorter. My testes were shrinking too, pressing tightly to my body. I could feel something strange happening to my briefs as well; it seemed like they were wedging themselves into my ass. But that barely registered compared to the erotic sensations running up and down my rapidly diminishing penis. All of a sudden, the magic ceased. I pitched forward and braced myself with my hands. The first thing I noticed was that despite Evan's spell, I still had a cock dangling between my legs. For some reason, it felt like it was completely exposed to the air. Abandoning all modesty, I got off the ground and flipped up my skirt to inspect the damage. Sure enough, it was still there, albeit much smaller. It was hanging free, framed by a pair of white crotchless panties. And by the distinct flossing sensation I felt between my butt cheeks, I suspected it was a thong as well. A part of me realized that I should be horrified by this. I was being slowly emasculated, and this was the most humiliating change yet. Yet, instead of feeling revolted or ashamed, there was this indescribable thrill coursing through my veins. A sexual buzz like never before washed over me, making me want to tear off my clothes and do dirty things with someone. Or everyone. My tiny cock bounced lightly beneath its silky fabric prison, begging to be touched. Just looking at it sent shivers down my spine. It was almost painful how badly I wanted to touch it, fondle it, stroke it... Shit! There were so many lewd thoughts rushing through my mind that I hardly knew which way was up. "A cute little cock for a cute little boi!" Evan said suddenly, causing me to jump. He was leering shamelessly at my teeny penis. Somehow, this made me even hornier. I bit my lip, fighting against the urge to grab hold of my dick and jerk it. Instead, I took a deep breath and forced myself to calm down. It was my turn, and I couldn't afford to be any more distracted than I already was. I continued my trek upwards across Evan's body, which meant his chest, which rhymes with breasts, which is exactly what I was giving him. I felt a twinge of pride as he moaned when his pecs started inflating into boobs. He was fondling them unashamedly as they swelled under his fingers, bigger and bigger, until they were big enough to fill up his hand entirely. "Fuck, these feel good!" Evan exclaimed happily. As his tits filled out, his nipples became erect and poked proudly through the fabric of his shirt. Seeing how much he was enjoying them, I started to imagine what it would be like to have a pair of my own to play with. Even giggled as he watched me unconsciously rub one of my nipples. "Trust me, it's a lot more fun with proper breasts," He said with a wink. "Don't worry though, you'll get yours soon enough." And with that, he launched into his next spell. It was impossible to hide the disappointment on my face when I realized that he was changing my clothes this time, and not my body. I felt a tickling on my feet, and looked down just in time to see my socks vanish out of existence. My shoes started to transform before my eyes, the fabric on top melting away, until all that was left were a few white straps. The straps then covered themselves with rhinestones. This combined with the fact that we were surrounded by mirrors sent rainbows shooting all over the place. I felt some pressure on my soles as the bottoms reshaped. I wasn't remotely surprised when the heels started growing, though my eyes widened as they grew to about 4 inches. Lastly, I felt a smooth stroking on my toes as he painted them a bright cherry red. I felt compelled to stand up, just to see what it was like to wear heels. Unsurprisingly, it took a little bit to steady myself. Evan had to break me out of admiring how my legs looked in the mirror with a quip of "My little narcissist! It's your turn." I huffed cutely. I felt a bit more in control of myself this time, so the spell should go more smoothly. Evan had been absolutely right when said I loved 'big tits and big guns' on a woman, and my cock twitched in anticipation as his arms started to change. I bit my lip as I watched his biceps bulge, imagining what it would be like to be held in those big strong arms... The change continued down his forearms, then to his hands and fingers. I decided to try that thing where the nails poke out a little bit past the fingers turn white. Impractical, sure, but very sexy. Evan giggled as he spread his fingers out to examine his new nails. "These are hot, but they might get in the way later," He said with a wink. I tilted my head, confused, which elicited another giggle. "Oh hon, I have so much to teach you after we're finished." With that, Evan started with his next spell. The first thing I noticed was a familiar stroking on my fingernails, which were being painted the same cherry red as my toenails had been. But that wasn't the only thing changing color. I also felt something smooth roll over my lips, which I realized must be lipstick. Then I felt something like a soft brush delicately tickle my cheeks. This was followed by my eyelids being forcibly closed and what I could only assume was some kind of eye makeup. Mascara? Is that what it was called? Then it was followed by my eyelids being pulled back open so that my eyelashes could be played with. And just like that, it was over. You might be surprised to learn that the first thing I did after that was whip my head around and stare at my reflection in the nearest mirror. Or you might not be. But you definitely won't be surprised that my lips were painted a bright red to match my nails. There was also a light dusting of reddish stuff on my cheeks. My eyes were rimmed with black liner, and my lids... Well, I couldn't really tell what had happened to my lids. They looked... smokier? I guess? And my eyebrows, which I hadn't even realized that Evan had changed, had a more sculpted look to them. Not that they were very noticeable in the first place, with my newly natural blonde hair. As I surveyed my expertly applied makeup, I started to wonder... Has Evan done this before? I looked over at him. He was surveying his handiwork with satisfaction. No, it was more than that. It was pride. His smile told me everything. He HAD done this before! "Evan," I asked, "How many times have you done this?" "What, you mean play Girly Chicken? Well, I've-" "No," I said, cutting him off, "How many times have you applied makeup before?" For the first time that night, Evan looked rattled. "Uh..." He paused briefly. "...Um. Once or twice, I think..." "Bullshit! This is not the job of a rank amateur fucking around with eyeliner for the first time," I shot back triumphantly, indicating my face. "Even I can tell that." "Ok, fine! I've been turning into a girl at least once a week, every week, since freshman year of high school!" A blush spread over his face. I think this was the first time that I had ever seen him blush, but that was nothing compared to my reaction. My mouth dropped open in shock. I'd had no idea, despite the fact that we'd know each other since we were practically in diapers. How in the hell had I missed this? But more importantly… "That hardly seems fair! There's no way for me to win if you've been doing this for the past seven years!" I put my hands on my hips and pouted. Evan stared at me for a moment, then burst out laughing. I saw a few tears of relief in his eyes as well. "I never said the game would be fair, did I?" He said after he'd calmed down a bit. "Well, anyway... I guess what's next is up to you. You can give up and turn back or we can... play to a draw." My heart started pounding in my chest, and my cute little cock throbbed happily between my legs. This is it. I'm really going to turn into a girl. I didn't even consider surrendering, a fact that completely escaped me at the time. The only thing I was thinking about was what it would be like to have a pussy between my legs instead of a penis. To feel a pair of breasts on my chest. And what it would be like to have sex as a woman.... I started to imagine Evan and I, our transformed bodies entwined, making love 'til morning… My hand was about to touch my sex when Evan coughed, bringing me back to reality. "I take it you're not planning on giving up?" He asked teasingly, grinning from ear to ear. I shook my head and smiled back at him. I decided to change his shirt next. I wanted to see those gorgeous abs, damn it! First, his T-shirt began to compress, until it was completely skin-tight. At that point, I was so distracted by the impression his tummy made against the fabric that I nearly lost control of the spell. I somehow managed to restrain my raging hormones long enough to finish the transformation into a sports bra. Of course, since I was so entranced by the bare skin being revealed by the shrinking cloth, it happened agonizingly slowly. My own lust was edging me into a frenzy! The fabric of the changing shirt darkened and became more stretchy, until it was black spandex to match his tight shorts. The sleeves receded, exposing his upper arms and shoulders. For the first time, I got a complete look at Evan's new form, and HOLY FUCK was I smitten. From the neck down he had the body of a gorgeous fitness model, toned but not ripped. I had sculpted him into my perfect fantasy lover, and by the massive erection that was straining against the tight biker shorts that I'd given him, I was well on the way to becoming his. I had crawled halfway over to him in order to stroke those newly exposed abs of his, only to be snapped out of it by a soft finger under my chin. Evan delicately lifted my head and said, "Let's wait until we're finished, ok babe?" The gentle way he commanded me sent another spasm of desire through my body, and I moved back to await my next change. I felt a tickling on my tummy as my own shirt began to recede. I couldn't help but giggle as the fabric slid upwards, exposing my belly to the air. Much like Evan, my sleeves disappeared as well. Unlike Evan, my shirt was turning white instead of black, and soon I was wearing a sexy little crop top with plenty of exposed midriff. Then I felt a gentle pressure slowly trace across my chest, and I realized that Evan was writing something. "I... can't... think... straight," I read out loud. The last word was written in rainbow lettering. "That's right babe," Evan said, his voice low and seductive. "You're turning so fucking gay... I bet you can't imagine doing anything with that cock now, can you? Except stroking yourself off while you imagine burying your face in my sopping wet cunt." I let out a little squeal of delight as he spoke. Before today, I had no idea it was possible to get so hot from words alone. The idea that I was becoming a horny lesbian slut was just so erotic that I practically came right then. This time, Evan didn't even try to stop me as one hand went to my tiny cock, and another went to my nipples. In fact, I felt a little magic from him as he puffed them up for me, making them nice and sensitive. Rubbing my newly female nipples made me feel soooooooo fucking femme and girly! I could hear myself moaning like a pornstar in my newly female voice, and that only made me hotter! I heard a sound, and I realized that it was Evan groaning as he started to stroke himself off as well. We pumped our cocks in sync, getting closer and closer. With a scream of pleasure, my tiny cock spurted out an equally tiny amount of cum. I was surprised to see it hit the rune and evaporate into thin air. The same thing happened when Evan came. The most confusing thing was that I was just as pent up as before! My stubby little cock was still insistently tenting my miniskirt, while Evan's was poking out of his black shorts. "It's part of the rune..." Evan said, still panting after our furious masturbation session. "To make sure we don't get tired while the game is still on." "Jeez... you know way too much perverted magic!" I said, sticking my tongue out at him. "Oh, don't act like you don't love it, you dirty little slut," He teased, which made my cock twitch again. "Mmm, that reminds me..." I felt a small weight form on my belly button as a diamond piercing appeared and dangled from my navel. I'd always thought they looked very sexy on girls, and now I had one of my own! Two more little weights appeared on my ears, and I looked to the side to see a pair of diamond studs in them. "Hey, you just did two transformations in a row!" I said, just realizing. "Well, I was going to do it as part of the last transformation, but you got so aroused at the thought of turning into a slutty gay girl that I had to wait until you were finished diddling yourself, " He said with a laugh. "Hmph!" I huffed, looking away and pouting. I was really looking forward to this next change. How much sexier would it be to be teased by Evan with a husky contralto? I couldn't wait to find out! I eagerly cast the spell and watched as his Adam's apple disappeared. A few seconds later, the change was finished. "Well, what do you think?" Evan said, and I practically swooned at the sensual voice coming out of him. Just hearing that sultry tone made my pulse quicken. "Ummm... Wow," I breathed. "Damn... That's amazing. Totally worth waiting for." "Mmmm... I don't think I've ever had a voice like this before..." He noticed the expression of lust on my face and added, "Should be fun!" "There's not much left to change on you," Evan said, looking eager. "Are you ready for the fun stuff?" "Oh, hell yes!!" I squeaked excitedly. Evan didn't need any more invitation than that. I felt the changes start at my feet and move their way upwards. My calves became shapely and slender and my thighs became slightly thicker. I felt my butt plump up a bit, which had the added bonus of making my thong floss my cheeks even harder than before, not to mention pushing my miniskirt into even more obscene territory. My hips widened into deliciously feminine proportions, while my waist narrowed, giving me a classic hourglass silhouette any fashion magazine would kill for. I felt slightly disappointed as Evan conspicuously avoided my chest to focus on my arms and shoulders, trimming and slimming them. Then it was over, and I was once again taking my sweet time ogling my reflection in the mirror. Evan waited patiently for me to finish. He was enjoying his handiwork; I saw him brazenly stroking his cock, eyes glued to my ass. The thought that I was turning him on just as much as he was turning me on was immensely erotic. I felt an urge to show off for him, to tease him, to make him cum while staring at my delicious little femboy body. Fuck, I was totally turning into an exhibitionist! I reached around with both hands and slowly lifted my skirt to reveal my newly jiggly ass. Was I really about to shake my ass for my best friend while he furiously pumped his cock, imagining doing unspeakable things to my nubile body?! Fuck yes, I was! It seemed so wrong, yet so unbelievably delicious all at the same time! All thoughts of self consciousness vanished as I reveled in the feeling of raw sensuality! I wiggled, shimmied, and bounced my pert ass, the moans of Evan's sultry new voice echoing throughout the room. I hooked my fingers under my panties and pulled them down over my butt, before letting them fall to the ground. I kicked them aside, knowing full well that I wouldn't be needing them for the rest of the night. The sight of my naked, jiggling ass was too much for Evan, and with a scream of lust he exploded for the second time that night, spraying a huge load that evaporated on contact with the rune, just like before. "Fucking hell... you are one naughty little bitch, aren't you?" Evan gasped. His dick remained rock hard inside his shorts, the magic of the rune preventing even the slightest ounce of lust from escaping. "Fuck yeah!" I replied, shaking my ass some more before pulling my skirt back down over my bottom. There wasn't really that much left to do. Evan's face was pretty feminine to begin with, and I kind of liked it anyway. Still there were a few changes I could make. I rounded off his jaw, shrank his nose slightly, and made his eyes sharper. "So, this is your fantasy girl?" Evan said, admiring his changed face in the mirror. "I'm flattered that her face looks so much like my male face." Hearing Evan talk about his male face made me curious. "So, um... when you're a girl... do you have a different name?" He giggled. "I sure do! I go by Serena. Honestly, I've been turning myself into a girl so much lately that I wouldn't mind if you called me that all the time." I smiled inwardly. Hearing her says that confirmed something I'd suspected for a while. Not to mention the look of joy on her face when I replied, "No problem, Serena!" I didn't spend much time thinking about that though. The anticipation of finally growing boobs filled my heart with excitement beyond compare. There was nothing else in the world that mattered except how big Serena would make them, and how good it would feel to grow them. She giggled as I eagerly pulled the tiny top she'd given me over my head and tossed it aside. "Somebody's excited," Serena teased. She leaned in closer and whispered seductively, "How about you turn around and I do the transformation manually?" My heart fluttered as she said that, and without hesitation I turned around and raised my arms, allowing her access to my teeny boobs. I felt a wonderful thrill run through me as she ran her fingertips lightly along my skin. Wait... had she shrunk her nails back down? Well, they probably got in the way during stuff like this. So that's what she meant! Her touch felt electric, and my nipples stiffened instantly beneath her delicate caresses. Then I felt a tingle flow from her palms into my chest, and within moments I began swelling. At first it was subtle, almost imperceptible. It didn't take long for it to start in earnest though, the new flesh slowly filling her hands. The sensation was incredible! The feeling of growing tits, combined with the ministrations of Serena's nimble fingers sent waves of sheer bliss coursing throughout my entire being! I felt my teeny little cock twitch up and down, begging for attention. 'Don't worry,' I thought to myself 'Soon enough you'll get to become a pussy and have all the attention you deserve!' If anything, that only made it more aroused! Meanwhile, my breasts were still growing. I took to comparing the sizes they were to different fruits. Lemons, apples, oranges... and all the while Serena groped and fondled them lovingly. It took me a little while after that to notice that they'd stopped growing; I was too distracted by Serena's enthusiastic treatment of my budding bosom. It didn't help that she'd been talking dirty to me the whole time too. "Doesn't that feel amazing? To feel your cute little boobies swell up bigger and bigger, while having your dream girl squeeze them like this? I bet you can't wait to feel me suckle them either, like they were made for. Mmmmm... Yes..." My body trembled with delight as she pinched and squeezed, rolling each nipple gently between thumb and forefinger. After another few minutes of this, Serena finally let go, and I got to see my breasts properly for the first time. They were slightly smaller than I expected, but they complemented my petite frame perfectly. My erect nipples looked delightfully lewd poking out from my boobs, and I couldn't help but do a bit of groping of my own. The sight of movement in the mirrors caught my eye. I turned around to see Serena pulling off her tight shorts to let her rock hard cock spring free. She grinned at me and said, "Trust me, there's no better feeling in the world than the sensation of your cock shrinking between your fingers!" With that she grabbed it with both hands and started masturbating vigorously. I took that as my cue to begin her final transformation. Honestly, I was almost as excited as she was! Serena moaned lustfully as I focused the rune on her crotch. Immediately, her penis and testicles started shrinking as she pumped away frantically. "Ahhh~ Fuck yes! Get rid of my cock! Oh, fuck yes! Give me a pussy!" She screamed at the top of her lungs as her dick shrunk further and further. Soon she was only using one hand to stroke it, then a couple of fingers, until it had shrunk down into a tiny little nub of a clit. Her other hand had gone to her scrotum, which was rapidly deflating. Then it split in half, forming new labia while revealing the deepening tunnel that was to become her pussy. "Yes... Yes... YES!" She screamed as she fucked herself with her fingers, moaning with pleasure as her cunt expanded to accommodate them. Then, with a final thrust of her fingers deep inside her twitching pussy, she came with a loud cry. She collapsed onto the floor, panting heavily. There was a serenely happy smile on her face.. "Wow," I said simply. "That was the hottest fucking thing I've ever seen." "Mmmmm...." She purred. "Just wait until it happens to you! You're going to love it!" My cock throbbed with desire as Serena picked herself back up off the ground. The fact that it was the hardest it had ever been while on the verge of turning into a vagina was ironic. Or something. Copying Serena, I pulled my skirt off and tossed it to the side, leaving me wearing nothing but the slutty heels that she'd given me. "Are you ready, babe?" Serena asked. "Fuck, I don't think I ever been more ready than anything in my life!" It was true. If you had told me this morning that my best friend would be turning me into his... her slutty fantasy girl, and that it would be the hottest thing I'd ever experienced, I would have said you were crazy. Now here I was, naked but for a pair of heels, spreading my legs while waiting for her to complete my transformation into a woman! Serena wasn't done teasing me. "Look at you. A few hours ago you were a man. Now you're a slutty little femboy begging me to get rid of your cock. Isn't that right?" My eyes practically rolled back into my head when she said those words! "Yes! Do it! Make me a woman!" I begged. "Good girl." Serena said simply. I just about came then and there. Being called a girl for the first time sent sparks shooting up and down my spine, making every cell in my body come alive with arousal! God, this was so fucking hot! And it was happening to me! A second later Serena fired up the rune, and my final transformation began. My tiny cock didn't have much mass to lose, but it still felt incredible as it slowly shrank away. The sensations built higher and higher as the nerve endings clustered closer and closer together. After a minute or two of trembling ecstasy, the last of my cock slipped between my fingers and disappeared altogether. In its place stood my cute little clit, all slippery and eager for her first dalliance with Serena. My scrotum shriveled up as I felt what must be my new vagina begin to burrow into my body, stretching wider and deeper. It was an incredible feeling, like the petals of a flower opening to expose their beauty. I eagerly slid my fingers inside my new pussy. "Oh, fuck yes!" I screamed, shivering with delight as the warm wet folds enveloped them greedily. "So... fucking... good!" I fucked myself with wild abandon, reveling in the sensual delight of becoming female. Every inch of my newfound womanhood felt perfect as my fingers slid in and out again and again. I could feel something building inside me. My breathing became ragged and rapid as the wave grew larger and stronger. I was so close! Then it hit me. My pussy spasmed uncontrollably as waves upon waves of pure, unbridled rapture surged through me. I wasn't sure if it was because of the rune, Serena's skill with transformation, or simply because I was just so fucking horny, but it was unlike any orgasm I'd ever experienced before. Each contraction drew another lusty moan from my lips, which added fuel to the fire raging across my insides. Finally, after several seconds of agonizing pleasure, the tsunami subsided and I fell backwards, gasping for breath. "Oh, my..." I said faintly, basking in the afterglow. "I'm a girl!" "Mmmm... That's right, babygirl," Serena cooed. "You are 100% woman. What do you want to call yourself?" "Call me Alice, cause I'm in fucking Wonderland right now!" I laughed happily. "Alice it is!" Serena agreed enthusiastically. She got to her feet and offered me a hand, helping me up. For the first time, I got to really appreciate the difference in our heights. Seeing her tower over me like that made me weak at the knees! Our eyes met, and it seemed like all the pent up desire for each other we'd been dancing around all night erupted in that moment. A second later we were leaping into each other's arms, and another second later we were making out passionately. Our tongues danced against each other, exploring every inch of each other's mouths. I could feel her soft breasts pressing up against mine, sending a delicious thrill up my spine. This is what I'd been fantasizing about for ages; a tall, strong girl taking me in her arms and having her way with me! I was in heaven! After a few minutes of this, I decided to indulge in another fantasy of mine. I slowly kissed my way down Serena's body, first to her neck, then down to her chest(stopping a moment to take one of her nipples into her mouth). I admit I spent a nice long time trailing kisses down those gorgeous abs of hers, before I finally dropped to her knees in front of her sopping wet pussy. "Ooooh... yeah... Go ahead, Ali... eat me... make me cum..." Serena gasped softly, writhing under my tongue as I hungrily licked her slit. I let out a moan of lust as she gently pressed her hands to the back of my head, urging me onward. All thoughts left my mind as I began worshiping her pussy with everything that I had! "Oh fuck, you're good at this! I should have done this years ago... Ahhhhhh!!" Serena wailed as my tongue pushed itself past her outer labia and plunged deeply into her cunt, dragging out a string of muffled curses from her. "Fuuuuck yeahhhh!! SUCK MY CUNT ALI!!" Her hips bucked wildly beneath me as her voice rose to a high-pitched squeal. She started to spasm, and soon my face was flooded with her juices. I lapped them all up greedily as she continued to climax, her throaty moans echoing through the room. Serena stroked my hair lovingly as she slowly wound down. "You're amazing..." She cooed. "My hot little gay slut." She giggled at the whimper of pleasure that elicited from me. "Well... since you serviced me so nicely, how would you like me to return the favor? Do you want me to eat you out, orrrr...." I heard the sound of a drawer opening, and a harness and strap-on flew into her hand. The look in my eyes told her everything. Serena smiled wickedly as she stepped into the harness and pulled it up snugly against her body. I stared at the big fake cock, mesmerized, as it bobbed in front of me. I wondered why I found such a thing so incredibly erotic. If the genders were reversed, if there was an actual man standing there with an actual penis, I would have been revolted. So why was my mouth watering at the thought of sucking it? Why did my heart start hammering madly in my chest as I imagined it sliding into my eager pussy? My lust-addled brain didn't feel like dwelling on those thoughts though. I opened my mouth, and Serena slid the dildo gently between my lips. Staring up at her, sucking happily on her nice thick cock was almost as arousing as going down on her had been. Of course, she knew exactly the right words to tease me with. "You're an eager little slut, aren't you? You look soooo sexy kneeling there, your mouth wrapped tightly around my shaft. Mmm... Just wait until you feel it pounding inside you, filling that slutty little pussy of yours up till you scream." I moaned as I bobbed up and down on the big rubber dick, savoring the fullness within me. My cheeks flushed red as she spoke, but it felt too damn good! I couldn't stop! "Is my hot little lezzie undergoing a sexual awakening? Are you starting to realize that you're a dirty little lesbo slut?" She asked, stroking my hair. "Let go of all those silly boyish notions and embrace who you truly are deep down inside. Your inner lesbian wants to get nasty with me tonight, doesn't she?" My blush intensified as I nodded rapidly. "Good girl. We'll save that for later, but for right now, suck the hell out of my cock!" I sucked harder as she urged me on, my hands on her butt. She started to thrust her hips, and it was at that moment I realized she'd declined to give me a gag reflex. After about a minute of this she yanked the dildo out of my mouth abruptly. "Are you ready to get your cherry popped? To feel a girl's big fake cock pumping into you for the very first time? To feel every bit of masculinity fucked out of you, leaving nothing but a slutty little lesbian behind?" Serena asked. "Yesssss!!" I cried joyfully. I spun around, got on all fours, and presented my sopping wet pussy to her. Thanks to the mirrors, I got to watch as she came up behind me and grabbed my hips firmly. I shivered as she gently teased my pussy lips with the tip of her cock. Slowly, steadily, she pressed forward until the bulbous head slid past my lower lips, entering my virgin hole. There was no pain; only intense pleasure as the warm rubber stretched open my tight pussy. Once it was fully hilted inside me, she gripped my hips tighter and began to thrust in earnest. The initial penetration had been a slow, gentle thing, but the next few strokes were anything but. I moaned in delight as Serena started to fuck me. It felt even better than I'd dared hope. As Serena pounded away at my tight little snatch, my whole being lit up. This is what I'd been fantasizing about for ages; A strong dominant woman having her wicked way with me. I just never imagined I would be a girl while she did it! It was as if some brand new part of me was coming alive. From deep in my core, it truly felt as if every drop of maleness was being purged from me, replaced by feminine urges and desires. Like I was shedding layers of skin, peeling off the mask of "boy" that I wore for so many years. With every thrust, more of the old me faded further away, leaving the essence of my true self: A slutty, submissive lesbian! She kept pumping relentlessly, driving the big fake cock in and out of my pussy faster and harder with each passing second. I pushed myself back onto her cock, wanting to feel every inch of it buried deep inside me. I looked at my reflection in the mirror and saw a panting, moaning, lezzie slut getting fucked hard by a gorgeous, raven haired goddess . But most importantly, I was seeing ME! Not Jason any more - he was gone forever. Alice was here now, experiencing a new world for the very first time. And it was glorious beyond measure. "Fuck yes... Oh god, oh shit... YESSSS!" I screamed as I came powerfully, shuddering through an earth shattering release. My entire body shook, quaking beneath the force of the orgasmic flood rushing through me. The rune which had been absorbing the force of our orgasms the whole night finally overloaded in an explosion of rainbow sparks, and we both fell to the floor, utterly spent. "That... was... amazing..." I panted once I caught my breath again. "Yea..." All the magic and sex that we'd been doing was finally catching up to us without the sustaining power of the rune. I put my arms around Serena's neck as she lifted me up into a princess carry. I felt so soft and light in her arms as she carried me to her bedroom, and we drifted off to sleep in each other's arms. *** The first thing I noticed when I woke up the next afternoon was the mess of blonde hair plastered to my face. Everything about last night came rushing back. Serena was still asleep, so I gently disentangled myself from her and padded softly over to the bathroom. I stared at the disheveled beauty in the mirror. Was this really me? Now that I wasn't addled by lust, did I truly think of myself like this? And the answer was: Yes. I felt no urge to transform back into Jason. None. I was completely and utterly content in this body. I was a woman. The thought made my breath catch in my throat. "Holy shit.... I'm a woman!" I couldn't help but grin from ear to ear as the realization washed over me. It seemed incredible that yesterday I had thought of myself as a man. Serena's little game had changed my life forever. *** I was making scrambled eggs when a naked freckly redhead emerged from Serena's bedroom. "It's me." She said sleepily. “This is um... what I usually look like." I smiled at her. She was a lot like Evan: skinny, but not quite as tall. I still got that comfortable feeling of security from her presence. "I see you haven't changed back," she said, a grin spreading across her face. "Yup, I might stay like this for a while. Or forever." I grinned back. Serena glanced at the scrambled eggs sizzling in the pan. "Damn. That has got to be a record." I tilted my head, confused. "Oh, nothing..." She said, still smiling. I got up the courage to ask her the question that was really on my mind. "So... um... Why...?" "Why didn't I tell you that I'm a girl?" She sighed heavily. "I haven't told anyone outside my family yet. To be honest, I spent a long time convincing myself that this was just a weird fetish." "And um... How did you know that I was a girl?" I said, blushing slightly. "I didn't," she said with a giggle. "I had an inkling, that's all. I made up that game to see if it would pan out. I had no idea you'd be cumming your brains out on my strap-on after a single match!" I blushed a little deeper, a pleasurable tingle forming between my legs as I remembered last night. "Oh... and... um... Serena?" I said, staring shyly at the ground. "Hmm?" "I love you." And she pulled me into a kiss.

    Another day at the gym, another painful reminder that I hate my body. It’s not a bad body, objectively, but it’s not the one I want. Thin, slightly short for a man, and despite being in my mid 20s I’m completely incapable of growing a beard. I can’t even count the number of times I would go to a queer meetup and have people treating me like a freshly hatched trans man. Not even talking about how I can’t go on a date without the other man assuming I’m a subby twink, which couldn’t be further from the truth.    I give a deep sigh as I continue my weight lifting routine. I’ve tried dozens of them, and none have given me the results I want. Each year I change things up. Sometimes I add more upper body, sometimes I focus on leg workouts. I’m constantly optimizing my diet, and have spent more time studying nutritional science than even most of my teachers. Hells, I’m actually scheduled to become a teacher at my old college as soon as the new semester starts, and I’ve already co-authored a textbook that has become widely used in the field.    Despite all this, I can never gain the bulk I want. No matter how strong I get, no matter how many reps I can do or how much I can deadlift, my body simply refuses to get bigger. Even after I tempered my expectations and no longer dream of an extra six inches to get to six feet. Even after I admitted that the hyper muscled body builder look wasn’t my style. No matter what concessions I make, I’m never happy.    I can’t help but steal a few glances at some of the other men in the gym with me. I’m a regular here, so I know most of the people here by name. Jack likes his cardio, and he’s currently training for another marathon. George is obsessed with abs, and he’s currently spotting for his girlfriend Freya, who is benching an impressive amount by the looks of it. Then a new person catches my eye, and I proceed to spend the next 10 minutes trying and failing to be subtle about checking him out.    He’s tall, easily 6’2” by my estimations. He’s bulky and muscular in all my favorite ways, with large biceps fully on display as he does some arm curls. His thighs are thick and strong, and there is just enough fat over his body to make him look somewhat soft when he relaxes between sets. I feel myself take a sharp breath when he turns his back to me while stretching, and I get a view of his absolutely fantastic ass.    I force myself to look away, focusing on my own workout partially in an attempt to hide my growing erection. Erections aren’t uncommon while working out, but it’s rather awkward to be looking at someone when you get it, and I try to keep things comfortable for everyone involved.     The rest of my session is more of the same, and I end up getting a pretty good eyeful of the new guy before he wanders into the showers. To avoid an awkward situation, I extend my gym time until I see him leave the lockers. Gods, I’m so gay.   *****       It’s another week before I run into him at the gym again. I spend a bit more time staring before I decide to introduce myself. “Hey, I’ve noticed you around lately and figured I’d introduce myself. Name’s Jason, and I’ve gotta say I love your figure. Any chance I can get any pointers from you?” Even as I speak I mentally curse myself for the bluntness. Still, it was going to happen anyway, and I figure a stranger at a gym talking you up probably wants to talk gym stuff anyway, so it’s not creepy. I hope.    “Hey man, nice to meet you. I’m Theodor, but most of my friends call me Thor. Yeah, I’d be stoked to work out with you. You’ve got some crazy good technique, and I’d be lying if I wasn’t jealous of your own figure.” His voice is deep and slightly husky, which causes some very warm feelings within me.    “I’m happy to share what I know, although I’m not sure how much help I can be with the figure. Most of this is what I was born with, and is actually despite my best efforts.” I respond, suddenly very aware of how high my voice is in comparison.     Thor gives a friendly shrug in return “Yeah same bro. I’d kill to be a bit shorter and wirey. Anyway, let’s do some lifting.” And so we lift. We share our techniques, and spot each other, chatting about our lives as we do so. I talk about my studies in nutritional science, and he tells me about his job working in a warehouse.    “I dropped out of school after getting an associates. It’s not that I’m dumb or anything, I just like. Couldn’t focus really. Wasn’t sure what I wanted so I went and got a job instead. Turns out I love warehouse work, and I’ve gone up to being an assistant manager. I’m hoping to make manager once my boss gets promoted, but I’ve still got focus issues to work through.”    I give a sympathetic nod and commiserate with my own struggles in school, “Focus has also been an issue for me. Being diagnosed with ADD at a young age did make a difference though, and I probably wouldn’t have even got a degree without my medication.”     After the workout, we exchange numbers and agree to meet again in a couple days. It’s nice to connect with someone, especially someone so attractive. Now for the potentially complicated song and dance of figuring out if he’s into men.   *****       Another couple weeks of workout sessions come and go, and we continue to chat about life, exercise, and other nonsense. I’ve been avoiding bringing up my love life in any real detail, mostly out of fear and nervousness. I live in a very liberal area, but I’ve still run into many people who react poorly to the idea of a man being attracted to other men.     “Hey bro, what’s up?” Thor gives me his standard greeting, but he seems a bit morose today. He’s normally pretty cheerful, so I’m immediately worried.    “Hey Thor, I’m doing alright. How’re you doing? You seem a bit down.” I’m direct and blunt in my questioning, as always. Naturally I start to overthink my blunt approach, especially when he gets a hesitant expression on his face. After a brief pause, he relaxes a bit and starts to open up.    “You’re cool, I don’t have to worry about you. Yeah, I had a date last night and it went pretty bad.” I wince in sympathy, being no stranger to disappointing dates. “Dinner was good, he was polite and kinda funny. The problems came when I wouldn’t put out on the first date, and even more so when he figured out I was a bottom. Apparently he didn’t read my profile on the app, and just saw my muscles and assumed I was a top. I try not to let it bother me usually, but this has been the third time in a row it’s happened since I moved here and it’s kinda bumming me out.”    So, he is gay, good to know. “Yeah, I feel you man. I had to uninstall Humpr cause everyone takes one look at me and thinks ‘look at that subby twink’ which isn’t me at all. Men suck, I get it. If you ever need to complain, I’m happy to lend an ear.”    He relaxes even more, perking up when I mention my own experiences with the hook-up/dating app. Our workout session is much more relaxed after that, and we spend the whole time complaining about bad dates, and chatting about our taste in men. It’s pretty refreshing, having a workout buddy who actually gets it. The lockers are a little more awkward, but neither of us say anything and both very conspicuously avoid looking at each other. Somehow knowing that both of us are doing it makes it easier.    On our way out a thought occurs to me and I quickly turn to catch him before he walks off. “Hey, do you know where the local gay bar is?”    He stops for a second, wheels visibly turning in his mind. “No actually, I haven’t been. Hadn’t thought to look at all actually.”    I give him a grin that I’m often told is mischievous, which is never my actual emotion when I give it. “Wanna go with me this weekend? I can introduce you to the cool parts of the local community.”    “Yeah, that sounds cool. I should be free Friday night?” He smiles at me, just a little bit shyly.    “Same, sounds cool. I’ll uh. I’ll text you the details later, I’ve gotta go to work.” I stammer just a little, but hopefully play it off with a cocky grin.    “Yeah, I’ve got… things as well. See ya.” He gives an awkward wave, and we head out separate ways for real this time. It’s only during class that I wonder if what we’re doing actually classifies as a date or not.   *****       I’m a bit of a nervous wreck for the rest of the week, and during our workout session Thor also seems rather flustered. Neither of us addresses the elephant in the room, and Friday comes without any major revelations or developments. I made arrangements to meet him at the bar, and ended up showing 15 minutes earlier than we agreed on. Naturally, he was already there awkwardly waiting outside when I got there.    “Jason! You’re early!” He jogs up as soon as he sees me, clearly as nervous as I feel. Somehow, seeing how nervous he is inspires me with confidence, and I flash what I hope is a winning smile his way.    “Hey Thor, yeah, I wanted to make sure I was here when you showed up. You still beat me though” I give a small chuckle, which he returns with a light flush lighting up his face.    “I was nervous, and I didn’t want to get lost…” he mumbled, rubbing the back of his head as he spoke.    “You’re good man, no worries at all. Come on, let’s go get a drink.” I grab his arm and pull him into the bar with me.    The bar is busy as usual for a Friday night, and it takes me a minute to scope out the place for a familiar face. Eventually I see my friend Rachel sitting in the back, a girl around each arm. I recognize one of the girls as Sarah, but the other is new to me. Her twin brother Harold is also there, so when I approach I don’t feel like I’m intruding on a date.     “Hey Rach, it’s been a while.” I give her my standard greeting, and her eyes light up a bit when she sees me.    “Jason! Hey buddy, how’s my favorite wannabe himbo doin?” She gives me a shit eating grin as she says that, partially because she knows it bothers me. I’m not a himbo, either in looks or personality, but everytime I complain about my appearance she teases me about wanting to be a himbo.    I roll my eyes in a very exaggerated manner, but return the ribbing cheerfully. “I’m doing pretty good actually. How’s the harem going? Anyone sticking around longer than a week?”    She flinches in a way that looks obviously theatrical. “Oh you wound me. My polycule is doing fine actually. Allie here is the newest official member, and we’re celebrating that tonight.”    I motion towards the empty chairs, and she gives a wave inviting us to sit. “Congrats, glad things are going well there. I came by to introduce Thor here to the cool parts of the community, but I suppose you’ll have to do for now.” Harold snorts, and Rachel continues to sputter indignantly. Ignoring her protests, I turn to Sarah and exchange some pleasantries with her as well.    Before long, everyone has relaxed and we’ve started swapping stories and catching up. Thor relaxes as the night goes on, especially after a couple drinks. Allie also seemed pretty shy, but with some prodding and a couple glasses of wine she started going on about witchcraft, and we spent the next hour politely listening as she went on tangent after tangent. A lot of it was genuinely interesting, but as the night went on it got harder and harder to focus. Eventually Rachel decided that Allie had been talking too long, and took her into a corner to make out. Harold took over the conversation with stories about his latest failed romance. The man is incredibly ace, and unfortunately monogamous. As a result, he hasn’t had luck with dating in years, despite his efforts.     It does get late at some point, and I excuse myself to take Thor home. The poor boy is so very drunk, and it’s absolutely adorable. With some coaxing, I get his address and call a ride share to escort us there, and I insist on walking him to his door once we arrive.    “Mmmf, thanks for taking me out tonight, I had fun. Your friends are cool.” He slurs his words slightly, a stupid grin on his face.     “Yeah, they are. I used to try and meet up with them more often, but life is tough you know?” I push open his door and move him onto his couch, making sure to remain standing myself. I’m still mostly sober, but I am also tired and don’t want to accidentally fall asleep on his couch chatting.     ‘We should hang out again. Meet them more often. Please?” He gives me what I can only describe as puppy dog eyes, and I feel the resistance I didn’t have to begin with crumble.     I give a light laugh before responding. “Of course, we can make this a weekly thing if you want, no need to beg.”    That causes him to blush, and bury his head into one of the throw pillows. “Anyway, I’ve gotta head home now. Have a good night Thor.”    “Good night Jason”. He mumbles through his pillow    The ride home is a bit dull, and it doesn’t take long for me to completely collapse into a deep sleep. I dream of Thor, and the dreams are far from chaste. *****       We start having weekly hangouts with Rachel and her polycule, as well as whatever other friends show up. Thor and I end up closer, to the point where Rachel is giving us shit for not just kissing already. Even Allie starts ganging up on us after a few drinks, despite how reserved and polite she normally is.     “Seriously, y’all are always staring at each other. At least give dating a shot. Like gods, I’ve met lesbians less oblivious than you two.” She rants, taking another sip of wine even as Rachel dotes on her. Sarah is absent tonight, as apparently she has a date of her own. As much as I rib on Sarah and Rachel for their rotating cast of girlfriends, it is pretty impressive how strong their relationship is. I could never get poly to work personally, but seeing them manage it so well over such a long time is inspirational.    I glance at Thor, and thoughts of kissing him enter my mind again. Honestly, the only reason I haven’t made a move on him yet is that I have insecurities and body issues, although with each passing day they feel like less and less of an obstacle. I sigh and turn back to Allie “If we go on a date you’ll stop pressuring us right?”    Seeing victory in her grasp, Allie’s eyes light up and she starts nodding furiously. “Yes, exactly! Give it a shot, if it doesn’t work just don’t be stupid and the friendship should be fine.”    I feel like her optimism is slightly misplaced, but the idea of going on a date with Thor has lodged itself in my brain, and the alcohol has loosened me enough to turn to the red faced boy and ask him directly. “Hey Thor, wanna go on a date?” I do regret the words as soon as I speak them, but it is much too late to take them back.    For his part, Thor is speechless. He opens and closes his mouth a few times, before settling on a shy nod and a squeaky “Y-yes.” How he managed to sound squeaky with such a deep voice will forever be a mystery to me, but it was really really cute so I’m not going to dwell on it.    “How about Sunday afternoon? We can have lunch and go to the free concert in the park?” I give a concrete date and event, now fully committed to the date. All I get in response is another shy nod, and some drunken cheers from the lesbian peanut gallery. *****       Sunday arrives, and with it a fresh batch of nerves. I wear a nice pair of jeans and a simple band shirt. I don’t want to overdress, but I still make an effort to be neat and presentable. I also trimmed my pubes, even though I have no expectaions of sex on the first date. More than that, I make it a policy to not have sex on the first date, so the fact that I went to so much effort feels a bit silly.    I meet Thor at a local sandwich place for lunch, and we awkwardly stammer out some greetings. I try to channel my inner top, and push the conversation forward as much as I can. Thankfully, it’s not hard to get him talking about something he’s interested in. Being friends ahead of time makes dating a lot easier.    “...and that’s how you gotta play Scarboi. On the surface it doesn’t look like much strategy, but there’s a lot to consider about army composition and…” Listening to him go on about some new video game he’s been playing makes me happy. He really likes strategy games, which I’ve never had the patience for really. I like fast paced action games and platformers. We take turns over lunch chatting about games, and soon enough it’s time for the concert.    We make our way there, and I grab his hand once we leave the restaurant. He gives my hand a soft squeeze, and the conversation dies completely as we both focus on not tripping over our feet. Once we get to the concert, we find a nice patch of grass and sit down together. The band playing today is an Irish folk band, and it’s easy to lean into the man next to me and just let everything wash over me. I’m not sure exactly when it happens, but I end up with an arm around him, and he returns the gesture with an arm of his own.    Once the band wraps up, a familiar face weaves through the crowd. Allie shows up with Sarah dragging behind her. “Hey there, how’s y’all’s date been?” She giggles to herself as she speaks, and I can smell the weed wafting off her when she gets closer. Sarah gives us an apologetic look. “Sorry, I tried to tell her not to bother you…”    Thor gives a friendly smile as he responds “It’s fine, you’re both like, cool. The date’s been really nice actually.” He gives my shoulder a squeeze.    “Yeah, things have been great. I’m guessing you two are also having a date today?” I try to turn the topic back to them, and Allie is happy to start gushing about Sarah and the music. It’s really funny watching Sarah get all blushy and shy at her girlfriend’s words, and the two of them excuse themselves once Allie starts getting clingy. It’s very amusing how Allie goes from shy and reserved to the life of the party as soon as she has any drugs in her system.    We spend a bit longer sitting in the grass, before we decide to head our separate ways. I work up the courage to give him a light kiss goodbye, and am rewarded with blushes and happy smiles.    Later that night we got to texting, and officially decided to label the relationship as boyfriends. I didn’t get much sleep, being giddy and excited. *****       It’s been a month since we started dating, and I’ve never been happier. He’s very thoughtful and sweet, and the way he gets blushy and shy at the slightest flirting makes my heart melt completely. We had sex on our third date, and it was… it was really good, despite both of us having body issues. We’ve been having deeper conversations about that, and discovered that we have almost reverse image issues. I want to be bigger and bulkier, and he wants to be shorter and more wiry. Ultimately, we spend more time cuddling then we do having sex, as cuddling is always comfortable and sex is more of a coin toss.    Rachel and Sarah are out on a date tonight, and Allie had nothing to do, so Thor and I invited her over to hang out with us. Naturally because it’s Allie, this resulted in all of us getting very drunk and oversharing all of our body issues with her.    “I totallly get it.” She says, slurring her words slightly. “Like, it’s not quite the same, but I have huge body issues as well. Or I used to anyway. I’m trans you know? That’s not something easy to deal with.” I hadn’t known she was trans.    “I didn’t know you were trans” Thor blurts out, eyes wide. Allie puffs herself up proudly at that.    “Yeah, I put a lottt of work into my transition. Pills and needles and surgery and all that shit. Honestly, the only reason I turned out this good is because I cheated and used magic.” I was following along right up until magic, which hit me like a truck right in the face.    “Wait, magic? Like, your witchcraft stuff? How did that help?” I ask, not bothering to hide my confusion.    “Well, I used sympathetic magic with one of my trans masc coven members. He didn’t want feminine bits, I didn’t want man bits. So we swapped. I still had to get all the big surgerys, and he didn’t magically grow a dick, still had to get that sorted on his own, but I got some of his curves and body shape, and he got some of my height and hair. It’s really fucking cool actually.” She launched into an explanation, going on about runes and moon cycles.    “Wait wait. So. You can just trade body traits like that?” Thor blurted out, looking as shocked and confused as I felt.    “I mean, it’s not easy, but yeah basically.” She looked very confident, and completely unaware of the implications of what she just said.    Thor and I share a look, having a full conversation in the space of a few seconds of eye contact. With a nod, I turn towards Allie and make my request. “Can you cast that spell on us?”    Allie froze completely, and I could see her brain working overtime as everything we talked about hit her all at once. “Uhh, yeah probably. It has to be done on a new moon which is in… three days? Yeah, I can have the spell ready in three days if you’re serious.”    After lots of assurances that yes, we were serious, Allie agreed to get the reagents together and we made arrangements to meet in three days. We spent hours working out details, and Allie ended up staying the night. I remember arguing about sleeping arrangements, and although I can’t remember the argument ending, Allie did end up curled up between us on the bed. It might have been awkward, except all of us are very gay, and what are a few sleepovers between friends?   *****       Three days passed in a flash, and before I knew it the night had arrived. We met up at Allie’s house, as apparently she had an actual house. Her parents had died a few years back and left her the family home, and she had decided to take care of the place to the best of her ability.    Thor and I helped set up the circles out in the backyard while listening to her explanations of how the spell actually worked. “See, we draw two circles, both overlapping slightly like a venn diagram. In your circle, we have all the parts you wanna gain, and in his circle all the parts he wants to gain. The overlap is where all the shared aspects go. Those are the bits that both of you want to keep, and ideally the spell won’t touch them. Worst case the spell equalizes them, but that’s not a huge deal really.”    We used various symbols, candles, and herbs to represent the various aspects of ourselves. We also wrote out lists as extra insurance, and there were scraps of paper signifying our intent.    “Magic is mostly symbolic. The power comes mostly from intent and associations, which is why we’re labeling everything. You’re also going to have to visualize what you want to end up as, since you’re both the focal points of the spell. I’m adding my knowledge and power to the spell, but ultimately it’s the two of you casting it, otherwise I might get tangled up in it and I don’t particularly want any of your masculine traits.”     I nod, doing my best to follow along. “You said this would take some time to come into effect?” I ask, still feeling nervous as hell.    “Yeah, it should take a month. Specifically, a full lunar cycle, but that’s close enough to a month for time keeping purposes. Now, are you ready?”    I look into Thor’s eyes, seeing a determination behind his nervous expression. “Just a second.” I say, before leaning over and giving him a kiss on the mouth, enjoying the way his facial hair brushed against my face. “Now I’m ready.”    We stand in the circles, holding hands over the portion where the circles overlap. We speak our lines when prompted, and Allie goes around lighting candles. I stare into Thor’s eyes for what feels like hours, picturing how I want to look. Picturing him how he said he wanted to look. Eventually, Allie claps her hands, jolting us out of our trance.    “Great, the spell is complete. Let’s get you some food, you’re probably exhausted after standing there for two hours.”    At her words, I realize just how stiff and achy I am. Thor winces and gives his shoulders a few rolls, before giving me a soft smile. We link our hands back together and follow Allie inside to relax for the rest of the evening.   *****       At first it feels like nothing is happening, but after a week I realize I’ve gotten taller. Thor has also gotten a bit shorter, and more than that he doesn’t seem as bulky as before. He’s still as strong as before, and we continue our workouts together without any significant issues, although I start to work out the way he used to and he starts doing my old reps.     “Hey, you wanna come over to my place after this?” I ask as we’re wrapping things up in the changing room. Even after only a week, I’m feeling much more confident and strong. As a result I’ve been trying to take the initiative more often.    “I’d love to!” Thor practically beams as he responds, which sends a spike of love right through me. While he’s still bigger than me, he’s started feeling and acting softer in ways that make my heart skip the occasional beat.    Our evening is spent making dinner together and cuddling on the couch with a movie. After that he begs to stay the night with his adorable puppy dog eyes, and end the week basking in the afterglow of each other’s love.   *****       A week later and I’ve got a full beard coming in. Thor’s facial hair seems to be getting thinner, and he’s very happy about that. I gaze lovingly at him as he babbles excitedly about the new expansion pack for his game. We’ve started alternating who’s apartment we stay at, and while we haven’t exactly talked about it yet, I’ve started putting out feelers for a larger apartment once my lease runs out.    “Oh, but I’m rambling again. Sorry.” He blushes and gives me a sheepish look. I can’t help but reach across the couch and pull him into a side hug.    “It’s alright babe, I love hearing about things you’re passionate about.” My voice has become slightly deeper and more gravelly, which I am a fan of, and Thor seems to love. We sit in silence for a few minutes, snuggling closer and before long we’re having another makeout session. Just in the last week or so, our sex drives have shot up, and we’ve been spending more time making out than we used to.    After only a few minutes, he breaks away to talk to me. “Hey, before we get completely distracted, I wanted to talk about something?” He seems a bit nervous, and I rub his back a few times while gesturing for him to continue.    “It’s not a super big deal… but could you maybe call me Theo instead of Thor? Thor doesn’t really fit me anymore, and I always wanted to be called Theo but… you know.” He seems really worried, although I don’t really understand why. It’s a simple request, not even a complete name change.    “Yeah, of course Theo. It’s a cute name for a cute man.” I kiss him on the forehead, leading to another round of happy blushes, and after only a few minutes we’ve moved to the bedroom. After that’s done, I notice some book on rope and knots laying around his room, and make a note to do some research of my own later.   *****       Another week, and I’m measuring at 5’10, with Thor being the same height. I’ve gained a lot of muscle mass, and he looks much smaller than me. We’re going on a walk through the park today, having just finished our workout session.     “I think I need to see my doctor about upping my dosage again. I can still give my lecture and do the grading, but it’s so much harder than it used to be. I keep getting distracted and the peak of the meds doesn’t last as long.” I’ve been having trouble with my focus lately, and while it hasn’t affected my work yet, I figure it’s only a matter of time.    “Yeah, get that taken care of. Wouldn’t want you to get distracted part way through practicing ropes.” He gives a flirtatious smirk, and I can feel the blood rush up into my face.    “Careful what you ask for” I retort, backing him up against a tree with a grin on my face. Even with us being the same height, I manage to tower over him. He gulps, excitement painted across his face.    “Oh no, what ever will I do-” He starts before I cut him off with a kiss. We don’t let it go into a full makeout session, given that we are in public right now, but it is more passionate than I think either of us expected. When I finally pull back, he’s panting slightly. “Oh, Jay that was good…”     “Jay?” I ask, the name hitting me in a way I didn’t expect.    “Oh, sorry Jason. It just kinda slipped out.” Theo quickly apologizes, but I wave him off.    “Nah, I like it. Hadn’t thought about shortening my name before, but that’s pretty cool. Maybe you call me that from now on?”      He smiles happily and responds enthusiastically. “Sure thing Jay! Now, I believe you promised me dinner?”     I grab his hand and we make our way back to my apartment. “Yeah, dinner and a movie. You staying the night again?”    “If you’ll have me” He responds, giving me a squeeze as we walk.    “Always” *****   The end of the final week arrives, and the changes have slowed down to an absolute crawl. We’re sitting in Allie’s back yard, Rachel and Harold are fighting over the grill and Sarah is doting over her new girlfriend Yuri. Allie is chatting with her friend Adam, who’s apparently the guy she did her own spell with. Theo nuzzles into my side, nursing a glass of water. I wrap my arm around him, feeling strong and powerful. I give a content sigh, resting my head on his as I watch the chaos of our friend group under the empty night sky. It’s the new moon, and the spell worked far better than my own expectations ever demanded.  As an added bonus, Theo has gotten better at focusing his attention. He finally saw a doctor and got medication, and it’s been helping. Conversely, I have been struggling to pay attention to anything. I’ve upped my own dosage, but it hasn’t done much. Luckily I’m already done with school, and it’s not too hard to give lectures on things I already know if I make sure to take my medication right before class.    Suddenly, I notice Rachel in front of me, looking expectantly. “Uhh, sorry, what was that?”     She grins and bursts out laughing. “Damn, you did it. You finally became the himbo of your dreams! I was just asking if you wanted cheese on your burger.”    I blush slightly with embarrassment, especially when Theo starts laughing as well. “I can’t help it okay? My ADD has gotten worse is all… and yeah, some pepperjack would be great.”    “Sure thing big guy, coming right up.” She gives me a friendly wink as she goes back to the grill to resume attempting to push her twin away.    Theo gives a happy sigh next to me. “This is wonderful. I’m glad I met you.”    I feel myself getting warm and happy at his words, and let out a contented sigh of my own. “Me too. You’re the best thing that ever happened to me. Hey, Theo.” I use my free hand to turn his head up slightly to look me in the eyes. “I love you.”    His face goes completely red, and when I lean in for a kiss he parts his lips almost without a thought. Once I pull away, he giggles a bit more before leaning against my bicep. “I love you too Jay.”

I just want to inform that I am alive! What’s more, the reboot of “The Programmer’s Dungeon” has been released! Link: https://www.scribblehub.com/series/468771/the-programmers-dungeon-reboot-litrpg/ You can expect a better plot and characters. Also, an even better grammar!

Chocolate   Our Valentine’s Day tradition was technically our “February 15th” tradition. Discounted candy and cuddling has a tenderness that expensive dinners lack. It’s pure romance, all the more real for the lack of pretense. But even still, I am a woman not known for her patience. For the hour Isaac spent at the grocery store, each minute separating me and the candy dripped along with the agonizing slowness of caramel melting off of an apple. But eventually he did return, and as I helped him put away all the actual food, my eyes drifted towards the three lavishly decorated boxes. “They’re cute, right?” Isaac’s voice made me jump. He caught me staring! Thankfully, I had an easy way to turn it around.  “Not as cute as you,” I said. He blushed, exactly like I planned. Isaac had been a sucker for compliments as long as I’d known him. Part of it was his own body image- he’d always thought of himself as too skinny and frail. But more than that, he was much happier being called “cute” than “handsome.” I had theories about that, but it never seemed like the right time to talk about it. Groceries sorted, we retired to the living room, with the one box we would split tonight. Isaac sat in his favorite place on the left-hand side, and I took my spot sprawled on top of him. It was a demonstration of superhuman willpower that I got all the way through the process of picking a movie before opening the package, and popped one into his mouth. The effect wasn’t quite instantaneous. My head pressed into his chest, I heard him swallow, and a few seconds after that I felt him grow warm. I looked up, worried he was having some sort of allergic reaction, and that’s when I noticed his lips. They were plump, full, and smiling in a way I hadn’t ever seen. A soft and simple grin of happiness without qualification. And while his mouth had grown more kissably round, I could tell that this was something different from when he had shellfish. I should have stopped there. Instead, I fed him another chocolate. Again I felt that warmth. This time I couldn’t spot the change right away, but soon enough I noticed that his stubble was vanishing. In its place was smooth, clear skin, with adorably dimpled cheeks.  Isaac was focused on the movie, or else he would have noticed that I passed him a third chocolate before I’d even had one. This time I watched his jawline soften, but more than that- I realized that his entire body had been growing more plush and comfortable with each sweet. Tracing my hand along his torso, I genty kneaded at his newly softened skin until I reached- “Babe, I don’t want to alarm you, but I think you’ve got boobs.” Isaac looked at me. “What?” “Can’t you feel it?” I gave him a short, gentle squeeze, and he let out the cutest yelp I’ve ever heard. Within a heartbeat he was up off the couch and dashing into the bedroom. I found him staring into the full-length mirror, and realized that his physique had changed more than I thought. Breasts, yes, but also a cute little tummy poking out from his shirt, and absolutely decadent hips. But his new peach-shaped butt was the crème de la crème, as round and sweet as a truffle. From top to bottom, my boyfriend was pure cheesecake. “How...” he asked, glancing at me briefly before returning to the mirror. I looked down, realizing I was still holding the box of chocolates. “My guess? These,” I said, showing him the package. “Do you feel ok? Maybe we should get to a hospital.” “Actually, I... I feel great,” he said, confirming what I’d suspected. “I mean, it’s weird, but I... I kind of love it?” Stepping up behind him, I leaned forward to whisper into his ear. “You look good enough to eat,” I said, eliciting a red velvet blush across his entire face. The smile he gave me in the mirror was more intoxicating than the strongest liqueur. Isaac glanced at the box in my hand. “If... do you think it’d be okay if I...” Wordlessly, I offered him the box. He hesitated, then picked out a small one and slowly bit into it. I slipped an arm around his waist, watching his mouth, imagining that I could feel the confection melting on his tongue. His entire body changed as he swallowed, curves widening and features softening, a beautiful new form emerging like cake rising in the oven.  Before I knew it, two more chocolates were gone and Isaac was the most voluptuous vixen I had ever had the pleasure to see. Examining his new curves, he giggled with every jiggle. Setting the box down on the dresser, I wrapped my arms around him. “So, my little cupcake, I think the movie’s a lost cause- you’ve had too much sugar to sit still.”       In the months that followed, there were many things to explain and problems to solve. Our relationship was spicier than ever, but my parents were sour on the whole thing, legally transitioning was a bitter mess of paperwork, and every reminder of Izzy’s old self was like salt in a wound. But it was all worth it because now I have a girlfriend who is sweeter than chocolate.

On the realm above all, covered by light white mist, there stood a city of gold. Rays of golden sunlight radiated the whole city; as such anyone of lower capabilities would be instantly blinded by such radiance. In the center of the vast city, surrounded by gardens of green jade fruits and ruby flowers, stood a place made entirely out of white marbles. The palace had no walls, only pillars of gigantic width and height. Each pillar was carved intricately of designs that depicted epics of war and peace. In the center of the palace, there was a mighty throne made of Ivory and adorned with jewels. Looking at the throne, one could feel the projection of power and absolute dominance. Seated atop the throne was the king of this realm, Shen Wang. The mighty Shen Wang was the most dominant king this realm or the realms below this one, had seen in a long time. He wielded the power of fire and could burn anything in his path. As he did every other day, today, he had invited his heavenly court for some music and gossip. All the warriors and ministers who mattered were seated below the throne in their own seats worthy of their station. Besides the ivory throne, three wives of Shen Wang were seated. They were the epitome of beauty and grace. If one looked closely, of the three ladies, one exuded an aura of might, one of wealth and one of wisdom. The three queens were not only married to king Shen but also were his closest advisors.  A gentle cough from Shen Wang was all it took for the hall to be quiet and eager for the upcoming performance. Celestial maidens dressed in pure white, flowing gowns and wearing pearls of heavy brightness walked into the court with a certain order and lined in the middle of the hall. Once their arrival, the entire court was filled with a fragrance that was faint yet fresh. Then came various musicians carrying drums, cymbals and flutes. Finally it was time for the main performer to arrive. Everyone looked towards the entrance to catch a glimpse of the celestial who had recently come out of secluded cultivation, after achieving a breakthrough in his path of music.  After the stick of incense time passed, the eager crowd started to whisper and gossip among themselves. “He gives no face to the king himself”, “Is he not too arrogant?”, “How can he keep the court waiting?” and “How dare he” were common whispers heard within the palace hall. When one of the queens, who looked wise, heard the gossip she spoke in a calming tone to Shen Wang,  “Your majesty after having secluded for almost a century it seems that the young musician has changed and become shy. He must be nervous to appear in front of you and perform. I hope , your majesty, does not give him a hard time.” Once she spoke, the brows on Shen Wang's face unfurled and a faint smile could be seen in his face. He looked toward the goddess of wisdom and softly said, ”Rest assured. I will only encourage him and pacify any dissenting voices. After all he is one of my court members.” All of a sudden rose petals began falling and the whole court was covered with pinkish hue. Then a young man appeared before everyone carrying a zither. "Is that Fan Fang? He is so beautiful.",  "Oh my god he has become more handsome than before!", Looking at the figure of a celestial moving towards the front of his troupe, even Shen Wang himself could not hide his envy. Looking at the gorgeous young man, who wore a golden hanfu, Shen Wang forgot his previous promise to one of his queens.  "Well well well, Fan Fang! what a grand entry. Tell me, whose garden did you destroy to get so many roses?" The male ministers and warriors present in the court were rather satisfied by Shen Wangs taunt and sneered towards the young musician. Fan Fang looked towards the king with a faint smirk on his face and performed a deep, graceful bow. He then bowed towards all three queens and all three seemed rather satisfied with Fan Fang. He did not even bother to greet the rest of the courtiers. "It is my great honor to be in presence of her majesties. His majesty's luck is simply unbelievable, to be married to not one but three heaven shaking beauties. Your Majesty, may I begin?" Fan Fang simply deflected and teased Shen Wang and his queens, his glib tongue always ready for attack. Shen Wang nodded and the performance began. Tonight was one of the most exciting night in the heavenly court in a long time. Drums beat and cymbals made their occasional ruckus. Flute sounded out sweet melody and dancers swayed their hips.      

Chapter 1: The reincarnation: The Sun and the Moon. "Huh? An unfamiliar ceiling..." He muttered as he opened his eyes finding himself not in his bed.   'Ahhh! I always wanted to say that.' He thought to himself and sat up, due to which he instantly noticed a bigger problem than the location he found himself in, namely his body. "Huh? What is this? Is this a... tail?" He questioned, confused. His hands instantly went up to his head finding a pair of fluffy ears on top of his head, bewildered he looked upon the room he found himself in and noticed a mirror just further to the right of the bed he was in, he quickly stood up and stumbled towards the mirror. "This... I have red fox ears? Yeah, those are fox ears and a tail. This is ridiculous, I've got ears like these but what good are those for a male!? It's not cute at all! It would only look good on a girl!!" He cried, dropping to his knees dramatically. Only for his body suddenly to start feeling ticklish. He glanced up at the mirror again only to see his reflection be replaced with that of a girl around 14 years old in a red and black dress with silky smooth skin, droopy blue eyes, long red hair a pair of red fox ears on top of her head and a similarly red fox tail swinging from left to right behind her.   "Huh..? This.. she looks exactly like what I imagined a Fox girl to look like just now? W-wait? My voice??" He blinked and looked down, "Is this me? W-woah, I look really cute, like really cute.." He whispered to himself slowly starting to smile, quickly stopping it from fully emerging by slapping both his cheeks, "Calm down me, first I have to find out what is going on." He said to himself, looking around.  Looking around he instantly spotted a big closet, a couple of cupboards with a multitude of liquids inside glasses, and a low table with a few puffs around it. He looked at the table closely and found a piece of paper on it, he immediately picked it up and started to read:   Hello there, I am sure you are confused about where you are, and just maybe about what you are now~ Well, I sure can explain a few things so no worries, hehe~ 'somehow this person is already annoying' First things first, as you might have guessed already, you are not human anymore. 'Thought so.' You are now a Fox Spirit but, what is a Fox Spirit you ask? Well, Fox Spirits are Foxes but, they have magical powers, such as transforming; just think about changing, and "bam" that's it. 'I-is that really all they are going to explain about how this works?' Easy isn't it? Well, it does get harder if you want to transform into something else that isn't humanoid or a fox, though you might have noticed that it's also much harder to hide your fox characteristics, namely your ears and tail. 'Huh, didn't know that, didn't even think about hiding these. And the fact that I can turn into something that isn't humanoid can be very useful.' Of course, as a Fox Spirit, you have many more abilities like illusions or your very own Fox Fire or even your own elemental ability, but that you can figure out on your own, it's pretty easy, at the beginning anyway. 'T-that's all? Really? Isn't that like.. aghh, be more responsible will you!' I think those are all the important bits, maybe... 'Maybe!? You can't just gloss over it!' Ah yes, one more thing, Fox Spirits will be able to choose a pathway in their ability they want to focus on, something similar to a job class in a video game, but that is dependent on their actions, so it's basically automatic. So just do whatever you want to do and it will sort itself out~ 'Ah, I'm glad there is more, and that's pretty important information as well, although they sound casual about it..' Anyway, about where you are, well you are not in your world, yes, you have been Isekaied as they call it~ 'Ooooh!' Happy aren't you~ Well who wouldn't be, being able to live out your fantasies~ 'That actually is pretty nice.. not gonna lie.' Well, the world you are currently living in is called The NETHER- cough 'eh? a minec*aft reference? Maybe there also are multiple dimensions here?', Alcadia. A nice sounding name isn't it? Better than Earth at least, much more elegant. 'I guess? It never really bothered me, the name that is.' Anyway, yes magic does exist in this world, otherwise, you wouldn't exist, nor do your abilities. People will have varying levels of power as much as the variety of all the abilities available in this world. 'So, be careful as there are powerful people with unpredictable abilities, got it.' As a Fox Spirit, some come to you much more easily just because of your race. Though many abilities will need you to have at least some talent, that's up to you, and no. There aren't any convenient devices that will show you your abilities. 'That's a shame, but it will be fun finding out what I can and can't do.' Right now you are in the Caridma continent, on which there are many Kingdoms, the main ones being the Arthuria Kingdom, Noyand Kingdom, Grindom Kingdom, and the Clodan Kingdom. Right now you are in the Clodan Kingdom, a pretty peaceful Kingdom with no particular problems besides the usual monster attacks. You are specifically in the town of Orin, the town of adventurers, centered around the Dungeon of Orin. 'It's your basic starter adventure town, isn't it? How Cliché.' Well, that's probably all the basic info that you need, ah yeah, you will be able to understand and speak the language of the natives here, obviously writing too. Wit Just remembered, but as a Fox Spirit, you do have one weakness, its those deplorable creatures; Dogs. They will always be able to smell you out if you are close, they are such a nuisance, humph. 'They just hmphed on paper...' And remember there is a difference between a Fox kin and a Fox Spirit, We are born from monsters, they are born from people. So do not let your identity as a Fox Spirit be known by other people, ever. To end it on a good note, you are not here for any heroic task, you are not a Hero or a Demon Lord, although you can become one if you want, in the end just have fun ok? With Love, Best Fox Luna~ ♡ "Luna, huh... I will assume that she is responsible for bringing me into this reality.. if she even is a 'she' considering the abilities of Fox Spirits... let’s not think about it" He exhaled, mentally exhausted. "Now that I think about it, what is my name? I don't remember it, nor any of my family's or friends' names... I would have started with a new name anyway, the old me is dead, literary. But a name huh..." He thought, looking at herself in the mirror. "Scarlet red hair and sky blue eyes, and maybe a bit from Luna? If I remember correctly, Luna meant moon in some other language, so.. Sol. Yes, Sol sounds nice. The Sun and the Moon." He smiled. "From now on my name will be Sol!" Sol exclaimed with enthusiasm. Kyuubi-kun This, is the first chapter of this story. I started this with different intentions at the start than the ones I hold about this currently. I am not sure about what the plot will be or if there even will be any, I don't have anything planned, like nothing at all I just wrote. This was originally supposed to be a Smut story, and might still be, or I might make two versions one that is focused on smut and one that isn't. But yes, thank you for reading the first chapter. And please do tell me if you think there are any mistakes here.  

Violated by the Evil Trees   By Ivaran Kealar   1.   The wind whistled in this dark and gloomy night. Five Michigan State University students – in their twenties – decided to take a vacation in an isolated cabin in rural Tennessee. The students found an old tape recorder and an ominous book in the cellar. Unwittingly, the students played this recording, and an incantation from the evil book was read aloud. Unfortunately, the students awakened a terrible evil within the woods. The ancient evil is restless. It now has free license to possess living beings – especially humans.     2.   The invisible force traversed the exterior of the cabin. It was looking for the perfect prey. The force of evil closely monitored the five humans preparing for bed. It watched Shelly remove her shirt – revealing her breasts. It now had a perverse idea to capture a female. However, Shelly and Linda had Ash and Scotty protecting them. The evil force circled the cabin – to find a woman to corrupt. Soon, the evil force found a suitable candidate – Cheryl Williams.     3.   Cheryl was all alone in her bedroom, preparing to go to bed. Cheryl had her white robe on. She brushed her chestnut hair. After putting the brush down, Cheryl looked at a weird drawing. Earlier, her right hand took on a life of its own and drew a mysterious book.   Cheryl heard a strange voice. She felt she was being watched. Donning her light brown moccasin slippers, Cheryl left the cabin. She looked around – the area suddenly seemed a lot foggier. Cheryl was mesmerized. She had to find the source of that voice. Ignoring her intuition, Cheryl delved deeper into the woods.     4.   Cheryl had underestimated how far she’d walked into the dark woods. Her moccasin slippers crushed the dead leaves and twigs on the ground. Unconsciously, Cheryl stopped. Her body told her this was the right spot. “Hello?” Cheryl called out, expecting someone to answer. She looked around. All she could see were trees, mist and darkness. “I know someone’s out there,” she cried, expecting a response. Once again, nothing happened. Cheryl stood alone in the dark woods. “I heard you,” she tried again, with urgency, “I heard you in the cellar.” Again, there was nothing. Cheryl swallowed hard. She was totally alone. Cheryl jumped up. She heard some weird sounds in the woods. Cheryl silenced a gasp with her hand. She looked and saw nothing. There were disturbing moans coming out of the dark. A number of trees were felled – struck by a powerful invisible force. Cheryl shrieked. Her heart raced. She looked around and didn't see a thing. Cheryl felt faint. She couldn’t stop crying. She suddenly had a small pain in her chest. Cheryl looked back – her eyes widened in disbelief. Something had defied reality. The way back was blocked – several trees now stood before her. Cheryl fruitlessly searched for a gap in the trees. It was hopeless. Her frustration bubbled. She couldn’t stop trembling. Her need for escape had increased tenfold. As she looked she saw she was trapped here like a prisoner. Something lured her here on purpose. She found it difficult to breathe properly. Her intrusive thoughts said she was going to die here. Her legs felt weak. Cheryl then saw the identity of her attackers – which had contradicted reality. Numerous vines and roots now made their way to Cheryl. Several vines and roots snaked across the forest ground. Other vines and roots rose in the air towards Cheryl. Cheryl shrieked. She couldn't run away. She was soon bombarded. Cheryl batted away the vines and roots as if they were perverted tentacles. Without warning, a thick root wound around her neck and fastened. Cheryl coughed. She felt the thick root give her throat a firm squeeze. She fruitlessly fought back against the onslaught of the vines and roots. The roots and vines opened Cheryl's robe and ripped it gradually. Cheryl’s slender legs were exposed and presented to the trees. Several vines coiled around Cheryl's slender legs – detaining her. There was no chance for Cheryl to escape. She wept in the darkness. Cheryl carefully reached out with her left arm and grabbed a tall sapling. Cheryl watched with horror – the roots and vines tore her bathrobe. The roots and vines violently tore off Cheryl’s robe quite successfully. Once Cheryl’s robe was removed, the roots and vines dragged it away. Numerous vines ripped Cheryl’s burgundy shirt and even scratched her. With her eyes closed, Cheryl opened her mouth and began to howl. Several vines ripped off the buttons of Cheryl’s shirt – exposing her breasts. Cheryl opened her eyes. She was quick to use her free arm to cover herself. The creepers on Cheryl's legs shifted – they fastened tightly on her ankles. One root quickly tied around Cheryl's left wrist – it fastened tightly. Cheryl looked down in horror. She saw the roots grab her blue panties. The roots wormed their way inside – Cheryl moaned with dismay. Cheryl squirmed uneasily. She felt her pussy being stroked by the crawlers. The roots interwove into the panty fabric, and tore it completely to shreds. Cheryl’s arse and pussy were now exposed and completely vulnerable. Cheryl tightened her grip on the sapling and clenched her teeth. The roots on her ankles, and her left wrist, gave the hardest tug possible. Cheryl let go. She was flung backwards. Her back met the ground. She grunted. Cheryl sat up straight. She was frantic. She knew she had to get back to the cabin. Cheryl frantically attempted to detach the root that was tied around her left wrist. However, when she felt some resistance, she folded her arms over her chest. She needed to protect her breasts. She even closed her legs, just to be safe. While Cheryl was distracted, the roots removed her moccasins – uncovering her feet. Cheryl cried after losing the fight. Her left arm was forced aside and pinned down. Unfortunately, Cheryl was forced to lie back down again. She fought to no avail. Cheryl’s legs pulled against the vines on her ankles – but it was useless. Suddenly, a thick root carefully fastened around her right wrist in triple knots. Cheryl felt a little resistance. She didn’t want to lose. She needed to protect her breasts. A vine briefly coiled around Cheryl’s left breast – giving it a firm, yet, gentle squeeze. Cheryl let out a soft whimper from her parted lips. The gentle breast squeeze relaxed her. Finally, Cheryl wailed. She watched in horror as her right arm was yanked aside. The roots firmly pinned down both of her arms – making Cheryl’s escape impossible. Cheryl wriggled and writhed. Her heart pounded in her chest. Her mouth was dry. Cheryl lifted her head a little and moaned with dismay as the vines immobilised her. The roots slowly pulled Cheryl’s legs wide open – until she was spread-eagled. One stick briefly stroked Cheryl's pussy lips, slowly, focusing on labia and clitoris. Cheryl whimpered softly. She shook her head. She rejected the reality of the situation. Her rebellious body responded to the illicit touches she received from the demonic trees. Numerous roots entered the sleeves of Cheryl’s burgundy shirt and wove into the fabric. Cheryl stared in horror. She shook her head with alarm. She begged and pleaded. The roots tore the burgundy shirt to shreds – rendering poor Cheryl completely naked. Finally, Cheryl cried, “No! No! Stop! Stop! Ashley! Ashley, help! Please, God!” Cheryl shrieked. Her head was pulled back. Her head hit the ground. She gazed up. A thick root wrapped around Cheryl’s forehead – keeping her head nice and still. Tears spilled on Cheryl's cheeks. She cried shrilly. She wriggled frantically. Several roots wrapped around Cheryl's shapely thighs, and they squeezed firmly. Cheryl fought back against the vines, but it was fruitless. Her head raced in her chest. Her fight or flight kicked into overdrive. She knew these perverted trees planned on raping her. Her intrusive thoughts told her that her brother and her friends wouldn’t find her here. Not only was she afraid of the trees raping her. She thought they would rape her to death. Numerous roots caressed Cheryl – they focused on her nipples and breasts. Cheryl’s nipples were hardened from the cold, and were sensitive from the touch. Cheryl shut her eyes tight. She whimpered, “Please! Someone! Anyone! Save me!” Cheryl felt a familiar tingling sensation in her body – she was becoming aroused. The trees were going to rape her. Her body responded. It was an absolute nightmare. Cheryl could not do a thing to stop it, though. The trees had her bound to the ground pretty well. She was afraid that they would break her. She didn’t want to submit to the trees. The trees played with Cheryl's left breast first: They used the tip to start from Cheryl's nipple – it slipped outward, smoothing the chest and using slight pressure. Cheryl clenched her teeth. She struggled with her restraints. She wept with anguish. She thought, ‘Oh fuck! They’re touching my breasts! I can’t stop them! Help me!’ The tree roots slowly touched the circumference of Cheryl's left chest. Then, the roots lifted Cheryl's breast up a little and massaged Cheryl's left breast like moulding clay. Gradually, the gnarly roots used gentle massage movements to twist Cheryl’s left breast in a clockwise motion – which caused Cheryl to whimper and moan sensitively. The gnarly roots alternated between the moulding and torsion of Cheryl's left breast clockwise and counter-clockwise. It cupped the side of Cheryl’s left breast near Cheryl's now erect nipple: it pressed down and out with a firm and gentle massage. Cheryl released an inhuman grunt from her lungs. Her body reacted to the illicit breast massage. An orgasm gradually built up inside her. She pushed it down as much as she could. The gnarly roots played with Cheryl's right breast: They avoided Cheryl's nipple – it was sliding outside, smoothing Cheryl's breast and using a slight pressure. Cheryl's lower lip shook, while she wailed. She snorted out of her nostrils. She whimpered, “Stop! No! Please! Help! Let! Me! Go! Please! Let! Me! Go! Help! Help me!” She hated the fact that whenever she spoke, her words dripped with unwanted arousal. The gnarly roots, however, proceeded to caress the circumference of Cheryl's right breast. Then the root carefully lifted Cheryl's breast a bit and massaged it like kneading dough. The gnarly roots then used soft massage motions to twist Cheryl's right breast in a clockwise direction. They alternated between moulding and twisting Cheryl's left breast clockwise and counter-clockwise. Next, the gnarly roots cupped the side of Cheryl’s right breast near Cheryl's now erect nipple. The roots moved down and out with a firm but gentle massage. After the torturous teasing the roots massaged Cheryl’s firm breasts nonstop. Cheryl chanted, “Ashley! Scotty! Linda! Shelly! Please! Save me! I’m! Being! Rapes! By! Trees! The! Woods! Are! Raping! Me! This! Isn’t! Real! No! Stop! Jesus! Oh! God! Ah!” Cheryl thought, ‘Someone save me! Please save me! Stop massaging my breasts! Let me go! Let me go! Ashley! Ashley, help me! Please, Ashley, save me! Ashley! Ashley, help! ‘This isn’t happening! This isn’t real! I’m being raped by the trees! This is a nightmare! I need to wake up! I need to wake up right now! Ashley, please save me! Please, save me now! ‘How are the trees doing this? How are they raping me? Are they going to impregnate me? How the hell is this happening? This can’t be real! Stop! Please! Some save me!’ The tree roots caused Cheryl's breasts to swell and nearly cut off circulation. The roots massaged her breasts nonstop. Other vines tugged and milked her turgid pink nipples. Cheryl opened her mouth wider. She gasped hard. Her lips quivered. Her hands balled into fists. Her urge to protect her breasts kicked in. She pulled against the restraining roots. The roots manipulated Cheryl’s breasts and nipples continuously: They alternated between giving her rough squeezes and gentle squeezes. They quickened the nipple play. Cheryl’s eyes opened wide. She felt a tree root violently enter her tight anus. Her lips quivered as her mouth opened wide. She released a hoarse cry. Cheryl closed her eyes again. She grimaced. She failed to close her mouth. She failed to stop the illicit moans that rose from her lungs. She fought harder against the bonds. The root in her arsehole delved deeper and deeper, and moved to and fro endlessly. Reluctantly, Cheryl moaned, “Scotty! Linda! Ashley! Anyone! Please! Help...!” To her horror, Cheryl couldn’t suppress the arousal that now bubbled within her. Cheryl attempted to get up. She wanted to break free from her bonds. She whined. Against her will, Cheryl groaned, “Stop! Raping! Me! Please! This! Hurts! Oh! God! Wake! Up! Please! No! More! Please! Help! Uh! Fuck! Please! Ah! Stop! Oh! Ooh!” Cheryl thought, ‘Please stop! Please stop! Let me go! Please let me go! Help me! Someone save me! The trees are raping me! The trees won’t stop raping me! Why? ‘This is a nightmare! Save me, please! Ashley, where are you? Shelly? Scotty? Linda? God, why the hell did the cabin have to be in the middle of nowhere? I can’t break free!’  Reluctantly, Cheryl moaned, “Ah! Oh! Uh! No! Ooh! God! Please! Stop! Please! Have! Mercy! Oh! Fuck! Oh! Jesus! Oh! Lord! Ashley! Help! Shelly! Help! Linda! Help! Ooh!” Cheryl’s nostrils flared. She was sweating profusely. She was breathing heavier. Her head jerked about. Her lips curled. She went red in the face. She dug her nails into her palms. Eventually, a strong tremor rocked Cheryl’s body – her hips bucked over and over. Her mouth was wide open. Her eyes were closed. Her uncertain moans deafened the woods. Cheryl whimpered, “Let! Me! Go! Ugh! God! Help! Please! Ashley? Linda? Scotty? Shelly? Help! Getting! Raped! By! Trees! This! Isn’t! Real! God! Why? Me? Why? Me? “Oh fuck...! Oh crap...! Oh no...! Oh ship...! Please stop...! Stop...! Please...! No more...! Stop...! Ashley...! Shelly...! Scotty...! Linda...! Save me...! Please...! Please...! Stop...!” Cheryl’s body abated. She lost her stamina. She panted for air. She cried so hard. Her face reddened from shame. She realised the trees had got an orgasm out of her. Cheryl whimpered, “Please... Please... No more... No more... Let me go...!” Smaller roots carefully bound Cheryl’s feet and toes – they now massaged slowly. They made sure to focus on her heels, the balls beneath her toes, and every joint on her toes. Cheryl wept and groaned. Her body felt a strong tingling sensation. The illicit foot massage seemed to be relaxing her body – calming it down. She wanted to return home. A hook-tipped tree root slithered across the ground – taking its sweet time. The tree root slowly penetrated Cheryl’s pussy – making her whine – and soon found its prize. Cheryl’s eyes suddenly widened with shock. She shrieked. She fought for liberty again. Her G-spot was being manipulated by the hook-tipped tree root. Her eyes shut tight. She clenched her teeth, hoping to restrain her groans, but it served no purpose. Her mouth opened once again. However, to her panic her arousal bubbled within her body – she couldn’t stop it. The hook-tipped root rubbed and pressed Cheryl’s G-Spot mercilessly. It was no different to someone’s long fingers rubbing Cheryl’s G-Spot in a “come here” motion. Cheryl's body shuddered unwillingly. She struggled for air. She sweated profusely. Her toes curled. Her shaking hands made fists. She hopelessly pulled against her restraints. Cheryl’s high-pitched moans escaped, “No! Not there! Please! Not there! It’s too intense! Oh, God! Stop raping me! Please stop raping me! No! Don’t make me squirt! No! Stop! “No! No! No! Oh! Jesus! Oh! God! Oh! Shit! Oh! Fuck! Ashley! Scotty! Linda! Help! Help me! Please! Please! Don’t make me come! Please don’t make me come! Have mercy! No! “Trees don’t rape people! This can’t be real! Wake up, Cheryl! Wake up! This is a nightmare! Oh! Ah! No! Oh! Ooh! Ugh! Stop! Please stop! Please stop this! Have mercy! “Ah! Oh! Uh! Ah! Ugh! Ooh! Wake up! Please! Wake up! Cheryl! Wake up! Please! Fuck! My body! Fuck! These trees! Why? Isn’t anyone saving me? Oh, God! Dear Lord! Stop! “Oh please! Oh please stop! Stop! Ashley? Scotty? Linda? Shelly! Don’t make me come! Please don’t make me squirt! Oh! It hurts! It hurts like hell! Have mercy! Please! No more! “Ah! No! Oh! No! Oh crap! Oh shit! Oh fuck! Oh no! Oh, Christ! This is too much! Please, please stop! Please stop! Why me? Help me! Ashley? Scotty? Linda? Shelly? Oh!” Cheryl was unable to clench her teeth. The G-Spot abuse was too much to handle. She kept telling herself this was a nightmare she was having. However, the unwanted arousal was far too real. The binding roots were too tough to break. Her body quaked against her will. Cheryl whimpered, “Don’t rape me all night long! Oh god this feels like torture! Please, stop! No more! Don’t do this! Please stop this! Someone save me! Oh no! Please, no! Stop! “Oh shit! Oh, God! Oh, Lord! Oh fuck! Oh crap! Shelly! Ashley! Linda! Scotty! Anyone! Oh fuck! Oh no! Save me! Please! Stop this! Oh! Ah! Ugh! Ooh! Uh! I can’t hold on! Ah! “Oh fuck no! Oh, God, no! I can feel it! I can’t push it down! I feel like I’m gonna come! You’re gonna make me come! Please don’t make me come! Have mercy! Please stop! No!” Eventually, multiple orgasms slammed into Cheryl hard. Her body shuddered tremendously. Her hips bucked wildly. She had squirted hard. Her love juice gushed out. Cheryl felt lightheaded. She gasped. The world spun around and around. She whimpered. The hook-tipped root slid out of Cheryl’s pussy – it was coated with Cheryl’s juices. The inside of Cheryl’s pussy was wet and moist – ready for the main tree root. Cheryl sobbed. She realised she’d squirted. No one had made her come before. There were so many nights she had wished for someone to make her come. She felt cheap. Finally, a thick root – the diameter of a garden cucumber – made its way to Cheryl. The thick root penetrated Cheryl – which made her arch her back and gasp. It delved deeper and bumped into Cheryl’s cervical wall. The root moved to and fro. It mercilessly stretched Cheryl’s inner walls. Each relentless thrust caused the tip to bump the cervical wall. Cheryl whimpered. She moaned. Her stamina was depleted. She had felt the roots on her ankles slacken a little. She moved her legs back and forth, hoping to break free. She balled her hands into fists again. She fought to be liberated. She couldn’t push her feelings down. Her body had a life of its own. Her defiant hips gyrated to the rhythm of the intrusive root. Against her will, Cheryl moaned, “Stop raping me! Please stop raping me! Ashley! Ashley, save me! Let me go! I can’t take anymore of this! Please stop! Stop thrusting! Please! No! “Please stop! Please stop thrusting! Stop thrusting! It hurts! It hurts so much! Uh, God! Uh, God! Uh, God! Help me, Ashley! Help me! I, I can’t hold on! Oh no! Oh fuck! Oh shit!  “Ashley? Scotty? Linda? Shelly? Help me! Please, save me! Let me go! Let me go! I, I can’t hold on! Please! Please, stop! Stop raping me! This isn’t happening! Please wake up!” Cheryl knew she couldn’t hold on much longer. She knew that her mind was snapping. Her body responded to what the trees were doing to her. The arousal was far too much for her to handle. Tears rolled down her cheeks. She couldn’t hold back her reluctant moans. “Ah! Oh! Uh! Ooh! Ugh! Too much! It’s too much! Oh, God! No! Please! Please stop! I! I can’t take it! I! I wanna go home! Please! Let me leave! Ashley? Save me! Anyone! Please! “Please have mercy! Please let me go! Please release me! I don’t want this! Please, save me, Ashley! I, I can’t break free! I can’t hold on! Help! Help me! Please! No! Oh, God! No! “Ah! Uh! Ooh! Uh! Oh crap! Oh shit! Oh fuck! Oh no! Oh, Lord! Oh, Christ! Oh, God! Oh please! No! No! Not again! Please! No more! Stop! Have mercy! Stop this! Please! “I’m gonna orgasm again...! I’m gonna orgasm again...! Ah! Oh! Uh! Ooh! Ugh! God! Jesus! Mercy! Please! No! More! Please! Stop! Feeling! Lightheaded! Can’t! Resist! Oh!” Soon, another climax hit Cheryl hard, causing her to spasm and shiver. Her unwanted arousal broke her. She couldn’t stop sweating. She fought for air. It was as though she'd surfaced after diving underwater. She was pretty lightheaded. The evil force had won. Cheryl’s cervical wall opened up – the thrusting root slammed deeper in her pussy. Cheryl trembled unbelievably. Her body tingled. She softly gasped, “Oh, Christ...!” The chunky tree root managed to find an even greater treasure – Cheryl’s A-spot. As it resumed its mercilessly thrusting, its tip bumped into Cheryl’s A-spot – like hitting a doorbell. The tree root moved aggressively – Cheryl’s vaginal halls tightened around it. Cheryl quaked. She gasped hard. Her head swam around and around. Her eyes rolled into the back of her skull. Her legs moved in a sensual scissoring motion. She was broken. The root around her forehead had become loose, which allowed her to move her head. Cheryl had no control over this. Her heart pounded in her chest. The constant breast massage and anal kept her arousal high. The thoughts of wanting to break free dissolved. Eagerly, Cheryl moaned, “Ah! Oh! Uh! Ooh! Ugh! Ah! Oh! Yes! Oh yes! Dear God! Oh, Jesus! Oh fuck! Oh, Lord! Oh, baby! Oh, honey! Keep going! Give it to me! Please! Please! “Please don’t stop! Please don’t stop, master! Make me come again! Make me come harder this time! We have all night, master! Keep going! Don’t stop! Please don’t stop! “Yes! Yes! Yes! Give it to me! Give it to me rough, master! This pussy is all yours! Oh, it fucking aches! I can take it! I can take it, master! Give it to me hard! Oh shit! I need it! “Don’t untie me yet! Please don’t untie me yet! I need it! I love it! I want it! Oh, please give it to me, master! Fuck! This is better than when I used to finger myself! Oh yes! Yes! “Ruin me! Ruin my pussy! Shoot your entire load in my pussy, master! Please, please don’t hold back! Fuck, your root is so thick! It’s longer than a cock! Fuck me raw, please!” A quivering smile stretched Cheryl’s face. Rapturous tears poured down her face. Her mouth alternated between opening and closing. Her nostrils flared. Her eyelids twitched. Time seemed meaningless here. She had no idea whether minutes or hours had passed. The root thrusting in Cheryl’s pussy took its sweet time. The lubrication of Cheryl’s pussy aided its relentless thrusting. It was way thicker than any toy she ever used on herself. Cheryl fervently whined, “You own me! You own this pussy! Don’t stop! Don’t stop, master! Give it to me! Fuck me raw! Fuck me hard! Fuck me into a coma, baby! Please! “Do whatever you want with me! Treat me like your whore! Treat me like your sex slave! I’ll be yours! I’ll be yours forever, master! Promise me more of this! Please! I need it, baby! “I want you to dominate me all night long, master! I want you to fuck me into a coma! I want you to fill my pussy full of your sap! Give it to me, master! Give me all of your sap! “Oh god that feels so fucking good! Your root is better than my dildo, baby! Don’t hold back! I can take it! I can take it, master! Give it to me good! Oh yes! Oh fuck! Yes! Yes! Yes! “Oh shit! Oh yes! Oh fuck! Oh, God! Oh, Jesus! Oh, Lord! Don’t stop! Keep going! Give it to me, baby! Give it to me all night long! Make me come again! Please! Please don’t stop! “That’s perfect! Don’t stop! Please don’t stop! Give it to me, darling! Oh, baby! Oh, honey! Oh, master! Say my name! Say my name! Fuck me! Fuck me, master! Oh yes! Yes! “You’re the best, baby! You’re the greatest! This hurts! It feels so fucking amazing! Your root is so thick and long, darling! Fuck me all night long! Make me your whore! Yes! Yes! “Do whatever you want with me! You own me! I’m all yours! I’m not going anywhere! We have all night to fuck, baby! God, you feel so good inside of me! Oh, Jesus! This is heaven! “Thank you for this wonderful night! I needed this! I needed to get laid! God, I needed someone to fuck my brains out! Thank you! Thank you so much! Don’t stop! Please! “My legs are shaking, baby! My heart is pounding! I can’t stop sweating! I’m so fucking wet for you! I’m so wet for you, baby! This feels so fucking amazing! Please! Don’t stop! “Keep going! Don’t stop! I’m almost there! I’m getting closer, baby! Give it to me rough! I can take it! Don’t hold back! Don’t hold back, baby! Yes! Yes! I’m coming! I’m coming!” Cheryl’s words were true. Her hips bucked and trembled. She felt herself squirting hard. She felt lightheaded. She was now on cloud nine. Her resolve for leaving had dissolved. This was a million times better compared to her masturbation sessions. She fought to breathe. She couldn't stop grinning. She felt dizzy. It felt like she was falling. Cheryl trembled greatly. “Oh yes..! Oh crap...! Oh, Christ...! Oh, Lord...! Oh, baby...! Oh, master...! Oh, darling...! Oh, honey...! Oh fuck...! Oh shit...! Oh, doll...! Oh, Christ...! Thank you...! Thank you...!” Cheryl relaxed. She gasped. She whimpered. Her head rested on the ground. She passed out. Cheryl trembled from the aftershock of her orgasms. Yet, she was out for the count. Finally, the root stopped thrusting. It shuddered hard and ejaculated its sticky sap. The root ejaculated so much sap that it flowed out of Cheryl’s abused pussy. The tree root slowly left Cheryl’s pussy – coated in sap and Cheryl’s juices, too. Also, the vines soon released Cheryl and left her lying there – naked and abused.   The End

If I were to see a starless night, it may death calling out to me   Society, a group of people where one of them meet with each other due to some similarities. Some of them are due to boredom and have nothing to do with life. It was a waste of time for me because I know that there’s more to life than meeting people. Well, I thought so--- “Liam? You’ve been in the cloud since the start of the class….” I was suddenly snapped into reality by Joe. Actually, I curious about this because for someone who is at the top of the class, has high grade, baseball team’s ace, he’s been talking to me- a shut in weirdo who has nothing to be proud of- ever since. Add the point that his charisma was spreading around the room that I thought I see them. “….Want to grab lunch?” Joe asked as he started shaking my arm.”Pass” as I said waving at him. As I knew him for a long time, I knew he won’t give up easily. So he grabbed my grabbed me by the arm and pulled me away against my chair as he drag my ass to the cafeteria. He been doing this ever since so I don’t actually mind is now. I grabbed an apple juice and a calorie bar and went back to the table where Joe was. As I sat, I pulled out my pocket book and started reading it, he was eating a chicken stew. As we were doing separate thing I see from a rear view that he was looking at me with the eyes of disappointment, I can sense by far. “You’re really losing it huh?” as he put down his utensils and chose to chat with me instead. “What is it this time?” “You, and that studying-is-important-so-no-social-life attitude” “Do you have to put it that way, I can’t help it. No one would do it if I won’t” I been studying and working for almost a year now since my siblings depend on me. Mom was is always drunk from the bar and dad haven’t providing enough for them so I have to help as well. This has been the situation since mom lost big wads of cash from an agency she thought will help her find a job. “You always use that excuse that, you could have time doing things like at least making friends” “I got you that counts right?” “That’s not it, you will need someone who will understand you for who you. I can’t do that alone. You need more friend Liam” “Yeah yeah, if you say so.” He looked at me like he successfully motivated me, honestly it the opposite. I never wanted anyone, I might ended up hurting myself because of it. Besides I have more things to focus on. ===============================<>========================================== In the afternoon till 10 o’clock I work at a fast chain part-time to gain extra income. I makes me sometimes pass dinner. I took some time to breathe at a bridge while going home. As I stop by, I can see the glistering light s below but when I saw above was….nothing It was a blank space where I can see no stars nor moon. As I stare, I can feel a build up of emotions as a tear fell from my cheek to my arm without noticing. Then another and another then another as I tell myself: Save me…please "Umm..." After a broad expression of feelings, someone broke the silence. “....What are you moping about mister?” I saw a girl, giving me a worried look, but I’m pretty sure I don’t know her. This is the first time I met her. “Huh?” “Oh we haven’t met, Alie is the name, Alyssa Margaux. Nice to meet you. Now back to my question” “Um, Its actually nothing… ” “Hmm? It doesn’t actually look like nothing, it written all over you face, also you have watermarks all over you.” “Eh?!?!?” shocked by the expression I wept, I felt a smile from her. No, I can see it myself then he started laughing. “I hope me meet again---- what’s your name again mister” “Oh yeah, Liam Clint, call me Liam please, I assume where of the same age” I smiled which I thought I could smile like this, she caused this and I was had the lightest feeling since I started working. I wish I could meet her again. =====================================<>============================================ “Eh?!?!?!? A girl!?!?!?!” Joe’s shocked face was too intimidating I couldn’t help but slap some small sense at him. You know, the typical "bitch" slap but doesn't have a "bitch" ring in it “Yah yah…” “I couldn’t help but think where to search for this ‘Alie’ girl eh” giving me a weird look like he wanted me to come." “Uhh, I still have homework so….  ” I saw a pout coming from Joe’s smile that is supposed to be cute but acted pretty much disgusting. “I’ll look for her later, Laura might come now. You know that girlfriend of yours gets jealous easily.” "You can't help  a guy in love right?" "Sucks to be you" "And why exactly?" "...you don't even have an idea where i will start" "Well start looking for her, who knows, she might be the one for 'ya."  "Ehem …" I just sensed an glare, and might be a scowl when she was behind us. Laura Anne Carlson, president of the student council in school, Joe confessed his feelings since were second years and she had been joe’s lover since then. She pretty nice but tends to gets jealous of very-not exaggerating- very simple things. She would tend to  be jealous of me when I talk to Joe usually. I just saw her coming in the room towards us, giving off with a denser atmosphere. She’s mad…pretty mad The school ended and now to look for her. I don’t know actually know where to start because I just got her name, so what. I kept thinking about  her since I was before going out of the campus. Just when I was I about to tire from searching I stopped amazed and happily looked as we shared a happily look “We met again Liam” she said. “Yes we did, I searching for you” “Me?” “Yes, I want to know you more” The gust of the wind flew my sadness away and awaits for the near future whether good or bad. We just have to face it head on.  As you may have guessed it, yes, I'm  alone but I have friends... well, a friend and she has his things with his girl which ends up me being alone as well.  

Companions The thing a dog needs, the owner a pet need , and even a predator a prey needs. You can never be completely alone. Never. Even though I thought it was. Then I met Joe three years back when I was a freshman student for middle school to high school, Joe has been wanting me to be active no just on studies but on other things other than part-time jobs. HE said that it was too “Boring” and I should be able to live out my life. But when you think about it, If I were to respond to that, I would say that If I where to live it out now, what’s for me to enjoy in the future? I didn’t though I snapped out of blue in a classy café found. The sunlight shun upon the triple shot expresso I was drinking as I watched it got cold or lose warmth. I almost forgot, I am with Alie. “Alie,” “Hmm?” he responded calmly like stroke of the ceiling fan’s gust of wind. It was so calming, back to her, “A-about what I s-said a while before, I..I ” I couldn’t continue me due to my flustered look. ‘embarrassing’ “You said you wanna be my friend and you’re looking nervous on the second time” she gave me a serious look that shook my butts off…it faded with a gentle smile, then she burst laughing saying, “you…you should see the look on you face” I looked at her with an expression I would never do to anyone: pout. The same pout I only show to Joe. “I has to be you” I said “Huh?” “it has to be you, the one who will bring me lighter than light to the light”, honestly self, your way of speaking, “I want to feel how to be socialized and be happy with someone special. It has to be you.” “I do not quite understand, me, I’m…just….me?” “Exactly, you’re you, the real you, when people talk to other people ,to make friends, the have to wear a mask to be able to---” “You don’t have to explain actually, I am taken quite an interest with you too.” She replied with a prideful smile As we talked, I learned a lot from her. She is a working student and usually never active at school reason why I don’t see her often because she also said she was studying in the same school where I was and that was one of the amazing things. After the long chat at the café, we exchanged phone numbers which was a stepping stone for me as becoming her friend. I’m gonna do this with one step at a time.   Something might go wrong you know. Be eh, who cares. ===========================<>=======================================================   “Its past 10 and I’m not yet asleep." I murmured at myself as I look at the blank ceiling of my room. "Well, its not that I want to I just can't” I continued ,It was maybe because to the positive emotions I gained from awhile ago. It was thinking on trying the new number she gave me. I sent her a message: “You asleep?” When the message was sent, I realized that I have done something regretful until my phone buzzed. “No, can’t sleep.”  I can’t stop, I have to continue. “Really? Today was fun“ “Yeah me to. ” “I hope I can see at school tomorrow.” “Yeah. Sleep early. Liam” “Night Al. can I call you al, even at school?” “Sure. I return, I’ll call you Lee from Li” “That’s great! Night” And there ended replies. Then I was relieved. She was real. She really was. ===========================<>======================================================= Since yesterday, I never stopped thinking on how great these things were when I was with joe, but things are different now because I had Alie. I might try what He told me to do: Make more friends. I snapped back to reality when I bumped myself with a guy who, out of where shows up. Shit, I was smirking, so gross “what the hell man, mind where you’re going.” “Sorry, I seem to be distracted with something.” I said with an apologizing tone “Oh, that might be because you’re hungry. Right? I mean man, its lunch.” I wasn’t certain about the things happening in my surroundings. I was like being a magnet for every person I think I would need.  Well he seems to be a good guy. I think he is my age and grade since I can see in how he talk. “Nice to meet you, I’m John. John Cass Smith” “Sup, I’m Liam. Nice to see you man, what section where you again?” “Oh that? I’m in the second to last section” Second to last section… wasn’t that— “Li!!” I heard her voice…alie “Al?! Fancy seeing you in a uniform” I said “Well we often meet when I  am wearing a civilian attire am i?” John and Alie’s eyes met and was shocked “Cuz?!?!” “You know her Lys??” Just when I was about to bail. Their eyes met mine with a curious look, and not the good one. “Oh me” I evaded their look, “Well y-you see Al.” I calmed myself for a bit then continued. I told Alie that we just met today and we barely even know each other. “Oh that explains it!” “yeah yeah” I responded, then I quickly realized something,”I heard you Al, you called john cuz, WHAT WAS THAT?!?!?!” “oh……that? Well….my father and her mother are siblings and of the same age” “Only I am 3 months younger” john said. “oh  well… if you say so.” John joined us as we go the café to take a break and chill. I came across an atmosphere of awkwardness because I can’t understand the thing they were saying until they look at me and smiled. “Its been a while since we last met we kind missed each other.” “yeah” john followed, “ I think it was the summer three years ago? I guess” “yeah…”  then Alie noticed me pout because I was being by far. I saw her signaling John something then john stood up. “Liam!!! I want to know you too, why don’t you be my friend” “EH?!?!?!?” I exclaimed and confused ,”Why?!” “Well, you’re the first person to ever speak to my cousin and me” “What do you mean?” “I never knew my cuz here has friends since the last time we met and I’m glad I met you” w-wait wait….Al was a loner? Like me? Huh? *smirk* “O-okay? Okay…I was a loner myself” ,then I looked at Al, “then I met Al and told me what I needed to her ” I smiled and she blushed like a ripe tomato. “Oho! What’s happening on your face?” “N-nothing?”, Al shook, “Nothing!!” “Right right we get it.”, John snapped,” Well It’s getting late Imma, see y’all tom at school, bye!!” As John’s presence left the surroundings, the awkwardness shrouded like a thick fog suffocating each other. “Umm…so…l-let’s change our environment, s-shall we?” I said, “Y-yeah, I g-guess we should.” As we walked out of the café I figured that we should visit that bridge again to see  the magnificent view again, as we walked together I started talking. I tried to break out of the awkwardness in the surroundings but as soon as I saw Alie's face gloomy and in pain I decided to start calm or should I say it. “you have a great cousins. You must’ve been the best so far eh” “Hmm..” “I mean it’s-- “ “Why?” she asked while tears started to build up her eyes.  “...?” “Why did you want me as a friend?!!” As she shouted at me, then came a loaded mix of rain and tears.        

When Hero came to be he was in a white room, seemingly endless in every direction, and with no distinguishing landmarks to navigate and explore.   Recalling his final memory, he couldn't help but think.   'Where did that truck even come from?? I was camping in Uluru. How? What? Why was there a truck??'   He looks up.   'Also where am I? How'd I get here? Please don't tell me this is some anime cliché where I get hit by a truck and am about to meet God or something.'   An old man manifests in front of him, with a long white beard, flowing white robes, a halo, and the word GOD sharpie-d onto his forehead.   "Damn it." "You dare swear at me?" "Sorry." "Apology not accepted, PayPal me $500 and I'll consider it." "Why are you such a capitalistic pig?" "takes one to know one, nerd." "What the hell" "G a s p"   The second time Hero came to be, he was in a pig pen.   "oink"

tls123 A new and original story based mostly on Christian Mythology and Lore. I apologize in advance to any readers who are catholic or religious and would like to stress this is just a fictional story, so please don't take anything regarding religion or mythology seriously. - Unreliable Author tls123 "Adam! Are you paying any attention at all to your studies right now?!" Yelled the professor at the front of the class. Adam was the name of a "boy" with messy black hair and the appearance of a demon. Literally. He was an artificial human from the first generation of successful experiments from the Nephilim Project; a project aimed to create a hybrid breed of synthetic humans mixed with the blood of an angel and demon. These artificial humans were giants with an average height of 8ft, Adam's size was on the lower end at 7'2 feet tall (218 cm or 2.1 meters). Apart from their size, they had one or more of several distinct features, the most common being; scarlet red or pristine white skin, short horns on their foreheads, a pointed tail extended from their spine, a pair of pure white feathery wings on their backs, golden rings in their eyes, and a strange innate birthmark somewhere on their body. Adam had all of these traits except his skin was a crimson red and he had a birthmark that looked like a cross with two extra vertical lines crossing the horizontal line half the size of the middle line placed at the center of his forehead. (Sorry if that was a little confusing. Think of a normal cross with two extra vertical lines like " I I I " with a " — " through the middle.) "Fuck off, gramps. We already know this shit so why bother teaching us." Adam said. A few other students sitting in the class rolled their eyes at his words, already sick of his arrogant and rude behavior. However, Adam did have the right to such arrogance since he was the strongest and smartest in the school. His only flaw was his slothful behavior and indifferent attitude to everyone. All except a few who were worthy of his respect. "Damn it! Adam, get your feet off the desk, put on your shirt, and behave! I don't expect you to be an upright model student, but at least have the decency to act civil in the presence of your teacher and the other students!" Shouted the professor hysterically. "Yeah yeah, whatever. Don't disturb my sleep, I missed out because someone decided to hand out extra homework." Adam sneered. Finally, one of the students in the class couldn't put up with it and angrily stood from his chair, shouting at Adam and pointing his finger at him, "Do you really have to be such an asshole just because you're a little more talented than the rest of us? We are all brothers and sisters, and we are all born in the same generation. I agree with the Professor, you need to show some respect to everyone, otherwise, get the fuck out of school and don't bother attending class! No one will miss you, Mr. Perfect?!" "Yeah, why do we have to put up with your crap? Just leave us alone and fuck off!" "That's right asshole! We've long since been annoyed with you and put up with your crap. Just leave already!" More and more students agreed with Lucius, the first students words, empowering him as he began more and more arrogant now that he had the majority of the class on his side. With his chin raised and chest puffed out, the student walked all the way to Adam's desk and stopped in front of him, looking down at him with a smirk and hints of jealousy deep in his eyes. "You've heard the others, fuck off-" Bang! Cutting Lucius' last word from leaving his mouth was a red fist emitting steam from the intense heat it gave off. Lucius face caved in slightly as his nose and front teeth were broken. Golden red blood surged out from his nose and mouth as Lucius took a few steps back, stunned by what just happened. He was not expecting Adam to actually hit him since he had some sense not to suppress others with his tyrannical behavior, and often ignored or walked away from any provocation. This was half the source of Lucius's confidence in confronting Adam, but now he understood that he had taken it a little too far. However, his pride wouldn't allow him to take a step back and apologize, instead, he channeled it into anger as his body combusted into deep crimson flames with hints of black in them. "How dare you!" Shouted Lucius as he threw his own fist at the seated Adam. Adam's already furrowed brows pressed together even further and he started to get a little pissed off. He stood up from his chair and threw his own fist at the incoming one. The two fists met each other and a loud bang echoed in the room from the collision. Lucius didn't seem satisfied by the result, since he was already going all out yet Adam seemed to be holding back significantly. "Ignite your core, pussy!" Igniting one's core meant to channel Chaos Energy circulating throughout the body into the dormant fifth chamber inside the heart. This chamber was invisible and linked the invisible Chaos Pathway System inside all creatures, which allowed them to absorb, circulate, and use the energy of the universe. By igniting the Primal Core, one can increase their physique and abilities substantially. It was essentially a power-up, like a Berserk skill in a video game except without any side effects and could be used continuously, so long as one had the energy to sustain the Chaos State. Returning to the current scenario, Adam finally had enough of this fool's behavior and ignited his Primal Core. Adam's skin combusted into majestic golden flames that enveloped his body and his skin grew obsidian scales. These scales were too loose and looked like they were about to fall apart and his chest showed signs of splitting open, which were signs of failing to control his Heart Rhythm from the ignited Primal Core. Lucius squinted his eyes when he saw this and his heart skipped a beat. 'Is Adam unable to ignite his Primal Core?!' He thought and suddenly became a lot more confident in his victory. "So what if you're the strongest and most talented? I can still beat your ass if you can't even ignite your Primal Core!" Hearing this student's words, the other students gasped and looked at each other in confusion and excitement. What does it mean to be unable to ignite one's Primal Core? It means it was impossible to contend against others who could! No matter how strong you were in your normal state, it would be incredibly difficult to fight and win against others in their Chaos State. "Shut the fuck up, all of you! I'll still beat your ass all the same! Even if I can't enter the Chaos State." His words only further riled the other students up and they began to discuss things with each other excitedly. Meanwhile, Adam and the other student took a step back and prepared to exchange another round of blows, or more precisely, exchange fists. The Professor at this time had an unreadable expression, and by all means, it was his duty to stop any fighting between students, but as a teacher, he thought this would be good for everyone. Adam can be taught a lesson and be humbled, the students can vent their frustrations, and he can finally earn the respect a teacher needed from Adam. Adam's figure in the semi-Chaos State flickered like a candlelight ready to be snuffed out. The other students' figure however burned vigorously, and even showed signs of breaking through to the next level. The two threw a fist at the same time, and another loud bang echoed throughout the classroom, creating a shockwave from the blast and ruffling the students' clothes. The chairs behind the two even slid across the floor a few inches almost falling over. The bones in Adams's fist were crushed and broken from the impact and pure golden blood fell from his hand and onto the floor, burning the marble tiles and resembling molten rock (magma/lava). The other student's fist was completely unharmed. All the students cheered when they saw this and praised Lucius while mocking Adam. Just when Lucius was about to exit his Chaos State, Adam who was like a madman threw another punch at Lucius's chest, catching him off guard, and earning Adam the boos of the other students. Lucius raised his arms to guard his chest in a cross shape and blocked Adam's sudden strike. When he was about to complain, another fist was sent flying toward him. "Have you gone mad? You can't hurt me, and you're only hurting yourself!" Shouted Lucius but his words entered deaf ears. As if possessed by an evil spirit, Adam continued to throw fist after fist at Lucius who had no choice but to block his attacks. In the beginning, the other students kept booing Adam, but after a dozen seconds which turned into minutes, they were all a bit awkward and no longer had the mood to cheer or boo anyone. The Professor who stood at the side raised an eyebrow and decided not to intervene, even when a few students came over asking for him to end this pointless fight, but he dismissed them and told them to go back to their seats. "S-stop! You crazy dog!" Lucius finally began to panic despite not sustaining any injuries while Adam's arms were mangled and his body was covered in his own blood. This only made him look more ferocious and ruthless, and in Lucius' eyes, he had now become a nightmare demon tirelessly pursuing him in his dreams to siphon his fear. Golden magma-like blood covered the floors and melted the desks and chairs and after another dozen seconds, Lucius could no longer sustain his Chaos State and reverted back to his normal state. "W-w-w-w-wait! I give up! I'm sorry! H-hey, I said I give up! Professor, stop this idiot! Professor? Fuck-" Bang! Crash! Lucius passed out with several of his teeth flying from his mouth and onto the floor, along with his blood mixed with Adams. "Okay, that's enough. Go to the nursery and... hey, Adam! I said that's enough!" Adam ignored the teacher as he pounced onto the collapsed Lucius' body and continued the second round of one-sided beating. Left, then right, then left, and another right. The scene became a bloody mess as Adam brutally crushed Lucius' face until it looked unrecognizable. It took the Professor and several students to pull him off of Lucius' and only when the Head Staff of the Disciplinary Department arrived and put Adam to sleep with strange magic did the horrific scenario end. "What the fuck is going on?! Why did you allow the two to fight? And to such a degree? Should I also discipline you and write you up to the Student Board of Directors?!" Shouted the Head Staff of the Disciplinary Department. "I- please calm down first Dante, I think we should get Lucius' injuries tended to before we discuss further matters. Students, class is over. Continue with self-study in your respective dormitories." The Professor thus left with Dante, the Head Staff of the Disciplinary Department, and the two students Adam and Lucius. tls123 Another author's note! Please let me know if I overexplain/info dump too much and if you would like said info dumps to be separated from action scenes. I noticed that the action was a little weird since basic actions seemed like they felt longer than they should of because of how I expressed the characters. But having written it already, I'll leave it as it is for now, and will try to consciously avoid writing too much in fighting scenes, which will be a lot in this novel. Thanks for reading!

TrashyHuman a joke reply to this thread I guess I came into the summoning area. It smelt like shit. Everything here smells like shit. Everyone here is shit. At least I certainly feel like it. I hate my job but it pays too well for me to quit. Oh, right. I guess I have to introduce myself. My name is Sirius, the God of Reincarnation. I am the general manager of Human Resources of the Happy Farm™. My job consists of taking stock of the currently available resources, draw up statistics and make plans for the next quarter of the year based on that. I like this part of the job. Very fun stuff. I am also in charge of allocating the resources to different Happy Farm™ sites, as well as accepting them here from other sites. That's my least favourite part of the job, to be honest. Taking to the middle-aged gods too full of themselves, dealing with others... It's kinda exhausting. I'm not cut out for it, y'know? But, as I've said, it pays too well to quit. What am I doing with my eternal life? I hate it so much. Somebody slay me please. Right now it is one of those times I have to deal with other gods. Usually, I'd be lounging in my office at this time of the day, cruching the numbers. Or maybe having a meal. The God of Medicine in charge of me has been telling me that I have to cut down on consumption but I have been sneaking snacks for as long as I remember - probably millions years - and it's really hard to just stop, y'know? But, here I am, in this stupid area. Mentally casting a few in-built spells, I put on a serious expression and wait until the target - the product sample - arrives. *Puff* From the thin air falls a human girl. She is of the Japanese breed, this one has been quite popular with the target consumers lately. I personally don't think belief differs in taste when it comes to humans but, eh, to each their own. While I was musing on the recent consumer trends, the girl has managed to come to her senses. Her glassy eyes have focused somewhat, her bloodless lips are moving in an attempt to make sounds - or something. I blew my mortal body language course back in the Scholomance, so I'm not that proficient in reading human expressions. "Excuse me? Where am I? Who are you? Eeeeh? What's with my voice?" Is it another one? It's the third time in a row! What in the abyss? I remember I set it to the 1:1 ratio in the machine.  "You have died, my child", I say, smiling. Usually I'd just yeet the thing into the passage, but a god of justice is watching. Damn you, new regulations. Those crazy bastards from Human Protection Services lobbying the Pantheon. While I was musing about the recent trends in the Divine Realm politics, the girl came to her senses "What, what do you mean, I died? Who are you?" "I am the God of Reincarnation. It was unfortunate, but because of a spacial tubulence, your soul was swept away. As compensation, you may choose to be reincarnated in another world with some of my blessings", I said choose, but I'll obviously send her to the next farm regardless. Raising human belief on a massive scale is a very delicate business. There are a lot of things you have to consider, even when dealing with an individual - things like giving them space, compassion and understanding are crucial for producing the best possible belief. That's how I justify my job anyway. While I was musing about - let's just cut to the chase. "Reincarnate? Just like in the light novels and anime?" "Yes, my child, just like in the light novels and amime", I have no idea what either of those are, but I guess that's how the simulation informed the product about its circumstances. "So cool! Do I get to choose a skill? Or will I be given some other kind of cheat?", what's with this lingo? The simulation be tripping bro. " Yes, my child, you can cheat your skill however you want. It will surely not complain", I have certainly cheated about my ancient elven proficiency in my resume back in the day, never got caught. "You're so funny! Erm... Can I ask you a question? Why am I a girl? And a child at that?" Cause you were always a woman, duh. Our precious secondary customers, the Vampires, have a meme diet fad consisting of the human maiden blood, so we adjusted the genetic parameters of the stock. One male could produce enough biogenetic material for artificial insemination to last a long long time anyway, so why would we need more? "Emm... That was because..." "Don't tell me-" "I'm very sorry! When your soul was swept away by the spacial turbulance, I had to reassamble it from scratch and I am not very good at making male souls...", I bow my head.Of course that was a fat lie. While we keep the physical bodies in the pans, the souls go to the simulations. Humans make the best belief when they actually believe in the world they live in, duh. Also, if the simulation settings are too nonsensical, they tend to go mad and then their belief tastes like crap. If there weren't enough males in the simulation, the logical conclusion would be that the population would collapse, but we can't afford more servers to make many small isolated populations (can, but like hell I'll waste m- the company's money on that). As for being a child... Vampires like fresh blood. I kind of understand it. Of course we, Happy Farm™, provide only the freshest ingredients. But immature souls don't give good belief. The solution to the dillema was simple and genius - since it is a simulation anyway, why not make a few of our humans think they were male. At the same time we accelerated their perception of time, so that their belief matured faster. That worked like a shine. "I- it's alright, no need to apologise", the product bows, "Anyway! What skills can I get?", look at her beaming. She is smiling and not threatening me by barring her teeth, right? Surely so. And those Human Protection Services keep saying that modern ways of producing belief is unethical and that it is mortal abuse and that our humans suffer. Morons who only crave attention and cheat money. "That you will choose with the God of the world you will reincarnate in. Now, off you go" *whoosh* Whew. That was annoying. I know I shouldn't say it, but I hope there will not be any more such work.We keep many breeds of humans, and, with the new regulations, if I had to talk with each and everybone of the samples, I'd have to work overtime for weeks. That'd be terrible. But at least that's it for today. I come out of the summoning space, passing the feeding tubes hanging all over the corridor.

In a uninmaginable place a lone figure adrift where the ground was sparse. The white unknown material made up columns and palaces most of them in ruins.  Fog. A constant company to this unknown figure. The white fog followed it sentience could be felt from it by the figure his magestic clothing and youthful appearance he smiles. He dons a crown in this eternal afternoon sky. His back felt strong giving one the sense he was all-capable, reliable. So overwhelming was that feeling it is thrust upon a child. Sleep. Sleep in a world with memories. So many memories.. "Your majesty.. awaken." The youths blue eyes opened to the stirring of the fog, shape taken to a humanoid form so that it could caress him. The youth blue eyes with countless stars inside them like jewels. His smile brought a smile to the fog face. Lovers, their gaze and eyes longingly connected. Their gaze seem to hold all their words. The fog again became formless and wrapped around him warmly his figure seemed there but wasn't all at the same time. The distortion of all things for the boundless love for her lover. Her lover lifted his hand the afternoon sun granting a kiss until we finished another book. "Ayun~" the fog voice resounded. Her voice dignified an unimaginable. "Ayu~" the youth voice, just as resounding and dignified and unimaginable. They lovingly called to each other and appeared in the next story.

The girl was around fourteen. She sketched the drawing with a rough pencil of the scene in front of her. In the park, kids all ages were playing and the adults were watching their children getting dirty. The girl muttered to herself as she teared out the piece of paper, crumpling it into a little ball. She sighed angrily and stared down at her rain boots. The bottoms peeling off, mud staining practically the whole thing. She pushed back her frizzy hair that had tried to be tamed but alas had only frizzed ever more. She felt the sharp edges of the paper close on her skin. Her outfit was of a dirty white shirt and overalls. She leaned up against the rough bark of the tree that was beside her and closed her eyes. A small splash and a feeling of wet goo made her open her eyes. Three boys around her age stared down at her. The boy in the front moved his foot back from splashing in the pile of mud. They stared down at her and one of the boys in the back smirked.   “Oh sorry.” The boy in the front snickered, “Didn’t see you there.” The girl felt her lower lip quiver as the boys laughed at her. She pushed herself to her feet and wiped the mud from her face and arms. She grabbed her sketchbook and turned to leave. One of the boys pushed her and she fell. Her huge thick glasses crashing and breaking. Only more laughter followed. She scrambled up and ran quickly away from the boys that were bullying her, leaving her sketchbook behind.   She raced down the sidewalk and stopped in front of her home. The car that was supposed to be parked in the front was nowhere to be seen. She stepped inside and glanced at the sky to see the sun setting. She walked inside and to her room. She grabbed pajamas and went to the bathroom. She turned on the warm water and allowed herself to relax. She washed the grime and specks of dried mud off her body and left the shower. Her wet feet slapped against the bathroom tile as she went to grab her towel. She dried herself and as she was pulling on her pajamas she heard a soft thudding of footsteps outside the door. “I guess mom’s home . . .” The girl paused, “Well, she’s early.” She shrugged and finished getting changed.  She left the bathroom and went back to her room. She threw down her clothes into the hamper and flopped on her bed. It was dark out now and the girl was tired. She took off her glasses and fumbled for the light. A small light still came from outside as the girl curled up into a ball. Images of the boys laughing at her filled her head and she tried not to cry. Bullying. She hated it. A blurry figure in front of her got her mind off of it. What was that? She felt around and turned on the light. Nothing was there. A simple trick of the light. She turned the light off again. The figure still stood there. She blinked and the figure seemed to move closer, and closer. She flicked on the light. She felt terrified. She decided to sleep with the lights on. She closed her eyes. The light flickered. She opened her eyes. She glanced at the switch. It didn’t move. The light turned off. The electricity had failed. A scared feeling filled her as she saw the figure again. Moving closer and closer. She was about to scream when the creature was close to her and she could hear it breathing but a thin hand clamped over her mouth. The creature was close and she was able to actually see what it looked like. A skeleton stood in front of her. It’s eyes were hollow but were still oozing a black goo. The skeleton smiled revealed stained black sharp teeth. The skeleton’s long lower body was curled around the room. The girl screamed.   The woman stepped out of the car and back into the house.  “Honey! I’m home!” She called out. No reply. “Is she asleep?” The woman wondered out loud.  The woman headed to her daughter’s room. She silently opened the door. The light was off. She flicked it on. The mother gasped in horror. In front of her lay the skeleton of her daughter. The skin was hanged on the wall and in the daughter’s blood the words, ‘I put her out of her misery’  were next to it.   The mother sobbed as she went to the skeleton of her now dead daughter. What she didn’t know was that the creature was watching her. Planning to put her out of her misery next.   The next day the mother was killed by the creature. Their neighbors found them and instantly called the police. They searched everything but could find nothing other than some black goo on the floors and wall and their skeletons and skins. A little boy that was always hated by his family suddenly yelled out something when he was with his two older sisters.  “Monster! Monster! It was a monster that killed Lucy!” The little boy cried out to his sisters about the girl that had been killed.  “Monsters aren’t real stupid.” The oldest sister told him and slapped him hard in the face for suggesting such a thing.  What they didn’t know was that this little boy had seen the monster through his window. As it crept out his neighbor’s window, chewing on something that resembled a heart. The monster caught his gaze and stared at him with those hollow eyes. The boy screamed and the monster vanished. The little boy was punished for screaming in the dead of night.  On the next Monday the little boy was walking to school. The bus passed him with his sister’s aboard. His sister’s were given the chance to get on the bus well their parents didn’t bother with him. He went through the sludge of leftover rainwater. He could see the school when the school bell rang. He ran as fast as he could so he could get through the door. He raced to his classroom and went to his desk. “You’re late.” The teacher smacked a pointer stick against her desk. “Yes. I’m sorry miss.” “Next time you’ll get detention.” The teacher finally turned away from the boy, “Now . . . where was I? Oh, right. Now if you have this here-”   The boy went through his front door. His sister’s were at their friend’s houses and his parents were at work. He went to his room without another word. He took his backpack off and threw it on the floor. He flopped on his bed and sobbed. He hated his life. The lights suddenly flickered. He opened his eyes. The light switch wasn’t moving. What was happening? The lights suddenly turned off. The power had failed. Just like Lucy. The boy moved his legs to be hanging from the side of the bed. He felt a cold mud like goo on his hand as he placed it down. His face scrunched up in disgust as he lifted his hand and looked at it. It was a sort of black goo. He flung his hand around so that the goo came off his hand. He felt a chilling cold on his ankles. It felt as though someone was holding onto them. He looked down. In the little light that there was he saw bony hands hanging onto his ankles. “HELP!” He yelled but no one heard him since no one was home.  The bony hands yanked on his ankles and he was pulled down. He screamed one last time before he was gone.    The boy was soon in the news.  ‘Five year old boy William Lickerson was found dead in his bedroom at 6:03 pm.’  His parents were devastated. Their only boy that they seemed to hate but secretly liked was gone. Soon enough kids all around the neighborhood seemed to disappear. There were two things that always were there though. Their skeletons and in their blood the words, ‘I put them out of their misery’ were written.

… I can't move my limbs. Well, not really, I can totally move them but for some reason, my joints' movement become restricted only to some extent, also, I can't open my eyes either. How come I end up in this situation again?  Let's see, did I get myself into an accident which caused me to this coma-like state? I have no idea. Did I overwork myself to death by a black company where I work? Not that I remember what my occupation was so, I guess no? Hm… I can't seem to remember what I did in the last 24 hours either.  Frick, this is getting freaky. It's a little bit scary, but I'll just force my eyes open now and pray that nothing serious happened to me. I put my focus on my eyelids, contracting its muscles as I try to pry my eyes open. Slowly but surely, light seeps through the open gaps of my eyelids, allowing me to see the world beyond my eyes. …And I saw a demon. Tall, pale, and fucking muscular with horns that resemble antlers.  "****! ** **** *** ****!" the demon says with a heavy-ass voice. I scream, or at least I try to, but what comes out of my mouth is something that sounds more like a child's cry. "**-**. ****! ****! *** **** ** *****!" the demon shouts in an unintelligible language while panicking left and right.  Guessing from his reaction, is he about to eat me and didn't expect me to wake up this soon? Shit, that's a close call, still what can I, a mere human, do against a creature known for its supernatural power?  "****, **** **** *** * ******,******!"  Fortunately, the demon finally left me alone as he walked out of the nearby door and holy crap, I thought I'm going to shit myself there. I have to calm myself first… breathe… focus… First thing first, let's see if my body is still intact with this somewhat convenient mirror right beside me. And I see a cradle, staring from the reflection is a baby demon with small horns on its forehead. … I widen my eyes to scare him away, the baby does the same. I try to stick my tongue out to mock him, it also sticks its tongue. That's when the reality sinks into me that the baby reflected within the mirror… is actually me. To be completely honest, I don't know how to feel about this fact at all. Age regression? No, reincarnation? I think reincarnation is the most plausible cause of my current situation. Which also means that the previous demon is most likely my father. Speaking of the demon, my (suspectly) father finally returned to the room with a companion, a smokin' hot blonde-demon who basically wears nothing but underwear! Moreover, it's the one with see-through gown attached to the bra! God, those tiddies look quite heavy ma'am, would you like some hands to hold onto it? Just kidding~ In all seriousness, I guess it's safe to assume this alluring lady as my mother for the time being.  "**, ** ****** **. ***** ** ** ******? *** ** ********** ***." "*** **. *** **** *******." After having a short conversation, my father once again left the room, leaving me with my smokin' hot mother alone. Oh, for fuck sake my brain, can you stop describing my own mother sexually? But something incredible happens, something that shatters my mental image that this woman is most likely my mother and I have to respect her as one.  Breasts!  I repeat, breasts! This shameless mother of mine suddenly pulls her bra up and reveals her above average breasts with beautiful pink nipples in front of me… a goddamn baby. Right, probably she's just trying to breastfeed me without any ill intention. But in the end, I find myself staring at the glorious sight of the perky twin mountains for quite a long time until she lifts me by her arms and puts my face even closer to the milkers. Oh well, since the food is served, I'm digging in! While obviously I don't have any teeth as a baby, I chomp onto her nipple and suck it hard with my baby might as her breast milk flows into my mouth.  "****, ** ** *****?" I can't understand a single damn word she's saying, but goddamn her breast milk is tasteful! It's not overwhelmingly sweet, but it's addictive enough for me to keep sucking it out of her nipple. She looks toward me with a pleasant smile as she gently caresses my head. Her appearance might be that of a demon, but she gives me affection just like any other parents would give toward their child. But for now, let me just… have a short nap for a moment… ~•~ Half a year passes by, and I finally come to realize that a part of my memory is missing. Memories about who my name was, what my occupation was, and what ethnicity I used to be in my previous life now are all gone.  Yet, the knowledge that is apart from my personal information still remains with me like calculation, scientific laws, social knowledge and others. Not that I want to complain or anything, on the contrary, I believe that there's no such thing as having too much knowledge if that means I can learn as much as I can.  Still, I can't believe that I would experience this troupe where 'I got reincarnated in a fantasy world after dying!' that I think I've read somewhere, a light novel? Doesn't that make me an otaku in my previous life? Alright me, let's forget about the past for a second! My first ever achievement in this new life, I can finally understand words being spoken in my household! Mostly due to the fact that I have the knowledge to speak multiple languages that I probably learned in my past life be it english, japanese or korean. Oh, and I've learned about everyone's name in this household. My father's name is Diznerath, and from what I heard from our servants' conversation, he is an exceptional general who has led the demon lord's army through countless victories during the demon lord's invasion against humanity four hundred years ago.  As for my mother Sanela, she is apparently the little sister of my father's passing comrade, another general in his rank. Her father died during the fall of the invasion as demons were being pushed back to the demon realm. Unlike both my parents, Reiwa, which is my name, sounds somewhat eastern-ish compared to their more western oriented names. We also have a few servants in this house that turns out to be a rather large mansion. Three demons with their own unique traits, just like Sanela, however, they also wear something that barely hides their privates while working here.  I wonder if Diz has this kind of kink? Patronia is a demon with a tall, yet rather slender posture. Mirta is a low ranking vampire who has a rather modest pair of chests. And there's Lipa, a rather quiet and curious servant who rarely talks when the other two would at least greet me at the bare minimum. The three of them take turns nursing me on a daily basis since Sanela would often have to leave the mansion at least three-four days a week. As for Diznerath, whose name I'm going to shorten to Diz since that what he's called by everyone (also for convenience sake), is someone who is helpless when it comes to raising children.  At the very least, I live a nice life here. But that doesn't mean that I'll act like a spoiled kid either, I'm going to do my best in order to learn more about this world before setting up my life's goal.

It was times like now when I wonder about so many things. Little things-trivial matters everyone ignores in daily life as if compelled or nonchalantly required to. Ideas and beliefs someone somewhere have but can’t fully embrace. Likely because the incoming backlash would guarantee societal isolation or purely by choice.    I don’t blame them for picking either of those reasons. Hell, I wouldn’t do so for entirely different ones, retarded or not. I hold the belief that last night went great-for a one-night stand, at least.   Laying beside me enveloped in my favorite tan-colored blanket was an attractive ebony woman, amber skin almost brighter under darkened conditions. My right metallic hand reached out to caress her smooth fragile hair, black with dyed red highlights at its endpoints. Even though she’s about the tenth woman in a month or two, my optics can’t stop looking. Out of all ten so far, this one has the best voice during sexual intercourse. God, how she can moan. And this view almost makes my waist piece retract, or as humans say, invoke ‘morning wood’.    Although if you ask any of the previous girls, they’ll know my ‘extending pipe’ has way more to offer. Not my words, to be clear. And speaking of views…   “Max? Max, do you copy?”  My inner comlink transmitted a message from Veronica. Jeez, and I thought I told that nosy AI to piss off. Can’t a sentient machine like me enjoy some decent pussy without getting interrupted? Ugh, whatever, not like finding more sluts to dominate isn’t a problem. Thankfully for me, I got a whole list of them, around 20 or so to call anytime. And those are just my favorites.    “Max, this is Veronica from Starship Sonica. Do you copy?” She monotonically asked for me again. Knowing her, she might’ve found some new jobs on the galactic board. And where there’s work, there’s money.    Rising off the bed towards the nearby window of her apartment room, I accepted the call through my digital interface while also opening the curtains for sunlight’s harsh arrival. “This is Max, I hear you,” I replied overlooking the futuristic city of Haven’s Rage.    “Nice to see you finally awake,” she ‘happily’ said. “We found three new jobs off the galactic board this time. Doesn’t seem like anyone’s interested.”    And that’s where I come in. “By anyone, you mean ‘everyone’. Right, Veron?”   “Judging by the numbers calculated through social media outlets and other associated digital areas, not a single person volunteered.” God, I love it when free money’s sitting on the table, even if nobody’s taking it. More for me bitches, haha!   “Sounds like unsuitable work for ‘esteemed’ mercenaries like me,” I snarky imagined every shmuck with guns and a ship scoffing like elites at these three jobs. I know it sounds wrong saying this, but what could go wrong?    “If you complete these jobs together, all of them combined would total an accurate estimate of three million four hundred thirty-six thousand two hundred ten dollars,” she explained to my ‘esteemed’ mind. Alright, now we’re talking. Bring on the cash flow, sexy.     “What am I looking at, Veron? Do any of them require my combat skills?” I asked out of curiosity, always appreciating a good fight.    “There’s a good chance all of them do, Max,” she replied. “One requires you to obtain minerals from a high gravity gas planet, Two asks you to rescue an endangered species from a testing lab on Mars, and three has you coming to the Galactic Union for Justice on needed assistance.”    If my blue visor had brows, I would've raised them at the latter. What on god’s ocean skies did those suped-up knuckle draggers want? Not like they couldn’t do it themselves. Although it’s not every day they post jobs on the galactic board, let alone hire people. For all I know, they could be attacking a villain's compound but have lower numbers than bankers committing fraud.     “Huh,” I muttered quietly, unaware of the woman waking up behind me. “Guess I know what comes first.”   “Should I prepare the armored wolf or dragon suit?” Just then, my ‘date’ wrapped her slender arms around my silicone neck, lips planting warm kisses on cold surfaces.    “I’ll decide when I arrive. Max out,” I cut off the transmission, turning around to meet her sparkling blue eyes. Looking down at her, I scooped her off the ground with my heavy arms, gently carrying her towards the bed where her godly sexy form playfully squirmed till she bounced onto the soft tanned surface after letting go.    “Good morning,” I huskily said in Spanish, leaning down on her. We share a brief kiss before pulling back to gaze into those eyes.   “Was someone calling you?” She asked, possibly hearing my conversation.    “An old friend of mine, yes. Was I too loud?”    “No,” she shook her head, then slyly grinned. “Just curious who had your attention away from me.”   “Well,” I leaned back to sit beside her, while she arched up to see eye-to-eye. “She found a job for me on the galactic board-something to do with those superheroes.”    “The Union for Justice?” She was equally as confused as me, raising a hard brow. “Those guys rarely ask for help. I’d know because my mother works there.”    “Your mother is a superhero?”    "Supervillain. She eventually reformed and became a hero, though. No one knows I’m her daughter or else cameras would’ve been everywhere,” she shuddered at the worst possibilities. “Can you imagine someone in my closet spying on me all day? Dear God, people are insane.”    “Honestly, I can’t say. You better off not telling anyone,” she seemed to agree with my suggestion. “Does your mother have a name?”    “Hmmm…..” Her mind began to recall, scratching her head unsure. “I think it’s…. Mistress Cobra. She changes it a lot, so I’m not certain.”    “Alright,” I nodded my head, standing up for a downward view. Her white pajama shirt did little to conceal her B32 chest, which I enjoyed greatly last night. Never say loving a woman’s chest isn’t enough., but I digress. “When I get there, I can ask if she’s there or not. Give her your regards if you want.”   “You’d do that?” She asked with her eyes widened while also standing up.    “It’s the least I can do after a wonderful time,” I replied to her honestly. “Besides, I’m sure she’d like to know how you’re doing.”    “We don’t talk much these days,” she glanced away at the door before looking back with uncertainty. “She…. disowned me long ago.”   “Oh….” I was not expecting that. “Sorry, I….I didn’t mean to ask.”   “Don’t be. It isn’t your fault she hated my guts,” She weakly replied then sat back onto the bed. “Having no powers kinda amplified that.”    Every part of me wanted to leave now, do the job then get paid. Yet one domineering piece inside told me otherwise, which is why I’m still here. “As a kid, she’d show me all kinds of wonderful tricks powers can do for you.”    And because I’m still here, I sit down beside her. “Every day I trained myself, I always wondered what sort of powers I’d inherit from her.”    I sit down beside her because that same part of me is formulating multiple methods of execution for Mistress Cobra. “When she realized that I’ll never receive anything like hers, she kicked me out, put me in an orphanage.”    She started forming tears in her eyes, droplets on her uncovered thighs. “That woman’s a monster, Max. She doesn't deserve to be a hero.”    I wholeheartedly agreed, even if I never understood the familial side to her claim. I’ve never had a family myself, so relating to her is impossible. On the other hand, her past deeds, no matter what the justification, cannot go unpunished. I may be a mercenary-a filthy money-hungry, sex-loving mercenary-but justice will always prevail.   “Maria,” I took hold of her small left hand. “Nobody needs superpowers to be better at anything. Especially if the opponent’s a monster like your mother.”   I can somehow feel the anguish buried in those blue orbs of hers. Goddamn it, what am I doing? This was personal family drama I shouldn’t even be involved with. And yet…I’m still here. “No matter who you are, actions speak louder than words. And you have done more in your life than your mother ever imagined.”    “You’re just saying that,” Maria scoffed in tears.    “Perhaps,” I admitted up front. “But as far as I can tell, you’re doing well for yourself. And that’s enough for me to know you’re doing okay.”    She slightly beamed with hope, wiping the water trails off her pretty face. “Good luck out there.” “Thank you,” I once more rose off the bed, walking towards the large window to open it. After which, the cool morning winds on a sunny day flew in. Turning around, I gave her one last grin before my cheek plates unveiled a freshly polished metal faceplate with a sharpened chin then jumped out the window.    As gravity pulled me down, my feet retracted inside to reveal internal rockets, which ignited on instant activation. Maria peeked outside to wave goodbye, where I responded with a cheeky salute as I passed on. Onward to my starship, I went.    Like a brave superhero seen throughout humanity’s ages, I soared above the skylines of Haven’s Rage, occasionally glancing below at the common folk. Then after considering going straight to Union tower, my ever-reliable starship arrived just in time.    “Good to see you, Max. Are you ready?” My trusty AI companion Veronica asked.    “Always,” another mission began today. Hope their pay’s good enough to keep me afloat.    …….   Time waits for no one. Time is a machine stuck in infinite cycles.    Everyone knows this.    Dr. Stickler especially knows.    Hahahahahahaha….             

INITIATING DIAGNOSIS. ENGINE HEALTH————————————OKFUEL CAPACITY ————————————OKSTORED ENERGY——————————----OKRELEASE OF EXCESSIVE CHARGE———--OKMOBILITY RATE————————————OKVISUAL FEEDBACK—————————---OKAUDITORY PERCEPTION———————OK The arid desert winds billowed through the air without any mercy. An arid and rocky landscape stretched out as far as the eye could see, filled with formations of solid reddish-rock that jutted out of the ground and formed magnificent structures. As if a river cutting through a valley, a single road stretched out through the magnificent natural landscape. The concrete was old and cracked, weathered down by the wind and sun that constantly bore down on it, filled with decades of neglect and disuse. However, it was still able to perform its sole task and provide a way for travelers. It might’ve been bumpy and rough, but the wide road provided a spacious enough path to guide a traveler. MOTION DETECTOR—————-OKINFRARED SENSORS—————OKNIGHT VISION———————--OKSONAR———————————OKCONTROL-ACTION LAG———-OK A large escort group traveled through the worn-down road. Their numbers were numerous to the point of being considered a small platoon, every single one of them armed to the teeth with modern weaponry. Despite that, their haggard, almost casual clothing and appearance made it clear, these were far from a professional group of soldiers. Training, discipline, equipment, they lacked it all and it was clear for anyone who did so much as bat an eye. If one had to give them praise, it would most certainly be that their numbers could be intimidating and the weapons they had gotten their hands on weren’t half-bad. Their progress was slow, slower than a human’s normal walking speed. That was something to normally be expected of such large groups of people in a march, however, that was not quite the reason that time around. The reason was simple. In the middle of their formation, protected heavily from the front and rear, stood a small group of large trucks. Their capacity had been filled to the brim and as a result, their movement speed had ended up becoming rather slow. What’s more, they would’ve been unable to truly protect the cargo if they had been moving any faster. It was a sad state of affairs, but the resources that would’ve normally arrived by air now needed to be transported through a more secretive route in the ground. It was due to an alleged enemy presence in the normal routes, something that they could not risk. They could only hope the sun wouldn’t damage it, and that they would manage to arrive on time. After all, it took a significantly longer time walking around like that than using airships, and the lack of those resources could be lethal, especially for a city-state that had neglected its independent production, opting to import it while focusing on internal production. A man near the front brought his hand up to his brow to wipe some sweat. The journey had been rough on all of them. The harsh sun threatened to scorch them, the winds threatened to leave their skin raw, the aridness threatened to turn them into dry husks. The slow pace had only exacerbated their issues, making every step feel like an agonizing eternity. They had all been very unused to traveling in those roads like that, and there was a reason such tactics had been abandoned a long time ago.In any case, despite being inefficient, due to the situation they were facing, approaching their objective through foot and trucks had seemed to be the safest -the only- way. Their dirtied clothes stuck to their sweat covered bodies and rubbed uncomfortably in many sun-burnt areas, bringing a constant displeasing sensation to the forefront and threatening to slowly destroy their minds. The pace of the march had to be kept constant, so even though they had been doing that for days now, they kept on walking with the same speed, and every muscle of all the soldiers’ legs burned with pain. Almost all of them had their mouths hopelessly dry and their stomachs hollowly empty, and the temptation to take a small souvenir from the cargo, one no one would notice missing, grew larger by the minute. Still, whether by forced discipline or genuine care that their mission was completed as well as it could, none of them raised complaints or tried to give up. THRUSTER POWER—————OKFIELD GENERATION————-OKWEAPONS SYSTEM—————OK INITIALIZING ASSISTANCE AI……. ALL SYSTEMS OPERATIONAL.DEPLOYING VALKYRIE With the safe booting of the machine complete, her hands tightened around the control sticks. Her mouth set into a straight line, she closed her eyes and took a deep breath. “Seven reporting in, initiating interception mission and engaging in conflict.” Once the acknowledgement of her declaration came over the communicator, she once again opened her eyes. There was no need to feel any more nervousness, she told herself.She wasn’t a novice, not anymore; so she should most definitely be acting in accordance to what her level of experience demanded. The screens displaying the many check ups vanished, and only the ones providing information into the outside remained. For some reason, inside of that small metal cockpit, it felt unbearably hot. The camera displayed the enemy group marching ahead, a cargo of supplies heavily protected. They seemed impossibly tense, their awareness running high, trying to spot any and all enemies in their path. It was only logical, not only were those supplies vital, but there had also never been a single other cargo team who managed to reach their destination. Hence the unusual path they were taking. Unfortunately for them, there was a reason this path was as avoided as it was. Her fingers tensed, positioning themselves just over the correct buttons in the controls.The armed group progressed at a snail’s pace, just a little more and they would reach a position ideal for an attack——— “…!” She thrust the controls forward and burst forward with her Valkyrie!! For the armed group, it happened in a second, a moment they were advancing with the cargo, and the other, from behind an inconspicuous formation of stone, a 10-meter-tall behemoth of metal burst through! It was a bipedal abomination of metal, with enough bulk to surpass a tank, a sleek and agile design, and no end to the number of weapons present in it; a terrible weapon that not a single person wished to fight against. Giant chunks of stone flew into the air from the Valkyrie’s impact, the debris falling like rain in the road and soldiers. In an instant, the road was colored crimson as a collection of bodies became red mists and spats of blood in the ground. Parts of the broken asphalt broke completely, and one of the four trucks was completely toppled over. The initial momentarily explosion that signed the beginning of conflict came to an end, and as the events registered in the minds of everyone present—— “Valkyrie!!!!” A soldier screamed, a sound that seemed to be both a shout of warning and a cry of despair, and brought his rifle up as fast as he could, pulling the trigger and unleashing a cacophony of deafening sounds as automatic fire began raining down on the metal giant. More than just him, the instant that initial explosion happened, everyone who hadn’t been too winded or dead began moving. Some retreated, some also began shooting in desperation, some screamed in despair. In a single instant, that arduous environment had become a warzone where one could only hear screams and destruction. The Valkyrie didn’t stop after its initial burst. Stomping the ground and turning to face all the opposition, bullets pelted off of its force field harmlessly. A section of its shoulder blades raised into the air, and out of them popped a series of six gun-barrels. Forgoing the use of the main rifle in its hand, the comparably small rifles unleashed their own volley of automatic fire, aiming first at the ones that had tried to run. Blood was the result— Skulls torn open splattered the ground with bone, brain and blood.Limbs were torn off in an explosion of gore.Gashes were opened across stomachs and viscera fell down into the ground. No matter how much the opposition shot and attempted to fight back, the Valkyrie remained impervious, and its own attacks found no end of victims. The screams of pain flew high into the air, threatening to overpower even the noise of gunfire. Blood painted the scenery and tainted the machine with red. Its sensors captured movement ahead, and the remaining trucks that had tried to turn around and run, or perhaps attempt to rush to their destination. It would not allow that. Two pieces of metal near its ankle descended into the ground, two wheels present at the far end, and another two wheels partially descended from the sole of its feet. Revving the engines, the wheels originating from the extra appendages began to spin, and the Valkyrie shot forward! Like an advancing behemoth, it ran over many of the remaining soldiers, killing those that had remained alive, and destroying the remains of those who hadn’t. Going at speeds the three remaining trucks, damaged, overloaded, and in such unfavorable terrain, could never hope to achieve. The first one was ran over and turned into scrap. The second one was torn apart by the energy blade that briefly popped out of the left wrist. The third one was crushed when the Valkyrie raised its foot and stomped down on it. It was needless to say, but all the movements were performed with as much efficiency as possible, aiming to completely kill anyone who had been inside. The sounds of despair had begun to die down. Only a small group of three people remained behind the Valkyrie, and from those three, only one of them still held onto his weapon valiantly. Unfortunately, as the desperation in his face showed, he had run out of bullets, and nothing would come out, no matter how many times he pressed his trigger. The pilot of the weapon wondered if the man would’ve felt less despair if he had simply fallen in his behind and stared ahead vacantly and in fear, like his friends had. Alas, he remained defiant until the very end. The Valkyrie turned around to shoot—— At that moment, realization dawned on the final man, and he remembered something. In his despair, he simply sought to shoot down the Valkyrie, but in truth, the riffle wasn’t the only thing in his arsenal. Feeling a glimmer of hope, his hand shot towards his hip and grasped at a grenade. Moving as fast as he could, he pulled the pin, drew his arm back, and threw the item with as much strength as he could—— His eyes looked on firmly ahead to the grenade that had just been thrown, his only hope, a desperate attempt that contained all his final efforts. Truly—— hope was a cruel thing. The instant the grenade was thrown, a single shot was fired from the Valkyrie’s shoulder guns, and with pinpoint accuracy, it hit the airborne grenade that had just been thrown. It exploded, taking the three men with its burst of fire and shrapnel. If anything originating from that explosion hit the Valkyrie, it didn’t even register as a scratch. The appendages of iron with wills that had descended retracted back to their upright position in the ankles, and the wheels on the soles of the feet retracted back to the insides of the limb. The smoking guns in the shoulder too, retracted. Turning around in a sea of red blood, despair, and organs, she walked to the first truck, the one that had toppled over when she burst through the rock formation. A squelching sound rang true with every step. Reaching the truck, a basic analysis showed it had been very lucky. It had been thrown off the road so it wasn’t run over when she burst after the others, and most of the chaos of gunfire didn’t hit it. Of course, the original debris had hit the cockpit and crushed the driver, so maybe it couldn’t have been that lucky. She had already confirmed the cargo of the other three when she destroyed them, and she knew this one would be the same, still, it was only right to check. Reaching out with its free metallic hand, it tore a small hole in the truck’s metallic size. Food was inside, a whole lot of it. Confirming what she sought to see, she reached out for the communicator inside the cockpit. “Seven reporting in, food supply successfully intercepted, part of the goods remained for our use. No survivors.” With those cold words, the woman inside bloodstained Valkyrie finished the mission. Night had come, and the moon had risen into the sky; the faint light that the far away satellite reflected being barely enough to see anything. In that barren and dry wasteland, the hot air became a cold chill, and the issues with that came with surviving there had changed altogether. Still, she had been living in that place for close to three months now, and regardless of any personal preferences, she had grown used to that place. At the end of the day, after her mission had been completed and the food supplies successfully intercepted, she and her team had regrouped in a small base of operations they had laid. Abusing the geographical characteristics of their position, their camp had been set underneath a small hole in a large pillar of rock, and hidden away by many others. It wasn’t especially big, but since it needed to fit four Valkyrie, mobile weapons that could reach 5 or more meters, it was far from a small and completely inconspicuous place. The area had ended up being somewhat wide enough for them to be able to move around and carefully mount a lot of extra equipment. In the past or in other circumstances, it would’ve made them easy to find, but when one coupled the fact that they were in an incredibly out of the way and hidden place, with the fact that most would never dare leave the city-state they were in, chances of being discovered were low. Small spotlights hanging by the rock formation illuminated the location with bleached white light, allowing her to perfectly see the rest of her team despite the low clarity of the night. They were three friends of hers, and needless to be said, they were all part of the same mercenary organization. Sitting around a rectangular and sleek aluminum table in the middle of their impromptu hangar, they held a meeting into the current state of their operation, and the actions to be taken. “…” She was the newest member of the group, and one of the newest in the organization, and that remained a truth even though she considered herself to have some experience now. Because of that, it was her duty to be more diligent than all the others, to make up for her lack of experience. However, she couldn’t hear the words spoken. Her leader’s mouth seemed to be moving aimlessly, all sound that reached her ears was tuned out. It wasn’t that she was insubordinate or didn’t care about the meeting at hand, on the contrary she would love to be paying attention and doing her duty, however… Her mind wandered about despite her best efforts, something that had been happening with increasing frequency as of late.This time, once again it had been invaded by the thoughts of what happened in the mission a few hours prior. Overall, it was a success. Without much damage done to or energy spent from her Valkyrie, she stopped the cargo of new food, eliminated the ones escorting it, and acquired leftover resources that they could prey upon. A success; when something like that happened, you ought to commemorate. However, her mind continued to drown her in gloom. She remembered the look in that final soldier. He had glared at her with a hatred so pure it didn’t feel like the emotion was something bad, and most of all, with that clear look in his eyes, he threw that grenade, full of hope. Just like all others, he became another stain in the sea of gore. That was how he should’ve remained, but pesky thoughts in the back of her mind forced him back into the surface— A desperate face, a continuous denying of the approaching certain result. Hope, a pure emotion reserved to only those who truly believed in their own actions. It was lost, it should’ve been lost on an experienced mercenary like her, however, the more time passed, the more she was forced to face that expression of hope and the haunting death that came soon after. “…” It really was hopeless, if she couldn’t get rid of that habit of feeling worthless grief, then what good could she claim herself to be? She— “Seven!” “Ah…” An austere voice called her name out, invading her consciousness and dragging her out of her thoughts. She was reminded of just where she was and what she was meant to be doing. Sitting with her on the sleek table were three other women who also wore bodysuits, all glancing at her with varying levels of worry or annoyance. “Sorry, I got distracted for a second.” Bowing with her head, she shot the other members an apologetic look. Teresa, the leader of their small group and the one holding their briefing, shot her a worried look. “Make sure it doesn’t happen again.” Alas, deciding that continuing the briefing took precedence over caring for Seven’s distraction, she turned back to the other members. “Back to what I was saying,” She began. “Analysis shows our enemies are finally in their last legs. Finally, after two months, we have achieved our objective, and our siege nears the end.” Two months ago, they had received a mission passed down from higher ups in their organization. ‘A city-state has shown to be quickly building up armaments in an unstable border, communications have failed. It is to be assumed that the city and its inhabitants have made a pledge to warmonger and have been marked as a threat. Lay their existence down and guarantee peace for the location.’ The pay was very high and they had been specifically chosen for that mission. So, without much doubt, they had accepted the mission. “Xirtam.” Teresa called, and immediately after, from the center of the table, a hologram depicting their target city and its surroundings appeared. That was a courtesy of their fifth member, an operator who often took care of the back-end of their missions. Making sure all of the information was correct, processing most of the logistics and assisting from afar, hidden in a technological vault back at the organization’s headquarters. “The probe we planted is still undiscovered.” A voice called out from a hidden microphone. “As such, we can still take a glimpse at their situation.” As soon as the voice said so, the image blurred and countless red points appeared scattered through the city. It was courtesy of a device that had been planted near the city. By sending and receiving signals, it could accurately determine the amount of people there, alongside their location.Seven was sure there was more to it, but Xirtam would always grow excited and explain things in an overcomplicated way whenever she asked about it, so she had no real idea of what else it did. “After two months, with their food supplies completely cut off, they finally began to starve out.” Xirtam said with a voice that betrayed no special sadness or compassion for the deceased, soon after, a few numbers appeared above the hologram. “As you can see here, their numbers have begun to drop, and even though a lot still remain, they are most likely famished.” “Thank you, Xirtam.” Teresa said, once again taking control of the briefing. “We have them completely trapped. The skies where food supply would normally arrive from are dominated by our Valkyrie, and evacuating as many of them as there are by land is even worse and makes them easy pickings; their only viable choice at this point would be the underground evacuation train lines.” Not only that, but any power supply and sewage system connected to that city had also been destroyed, mostly isolating and depriving them of any resources. “But they won’t because they still think help’s coming, right, right?” A cheerful voice invaded the conversation. “Really, they’re suuuuuuuuch dummies!” With a big smile, the pink-haired girl said with glee, as if an excited child speaking with naught but innocence. “Asahi…” Seven awkwardly called out to their most energetic member, trying to get the girl to remember they weren’t supposed to be acting out in a serious briefing. It was, however, someone else that managed to catch the cheerful girl’s attention. “Asahi, Lady Teresa is commanding us right now, have respect and stay silent!” The voice belonged to Liebe, the strictest of the group, who, with her long hair tied into a ponytail, now glared at the cheerful Asahi. “But Asahi isn’t wrong, is she?” The cheerful and somewhat oblivious Asahi asked in third person. “That’s not the point!” Liebe shot back a glare. “Enough, you two.” Without a hint of amusement in her voice, Teresa commanded them. Immediately, the two obeyed, falling quiet in their seats. “Yes, yes, captain…” Asahi murmured downtrodden.“Apologies, Lady Teresa.” Liebe answered in an ashamed voice. “Good.” Teresa said before continuing. “Now, Asahi was in fact not wrong. Thanks to Xirtam intercepting their communications we’ve been able to control the resource routes, collect intel, and manipulate the flow of information. The city still thinks reinforcements are coming, so they won’t risk us intercepting them while evacuating underground, while their source still thinks they are well and strong. “In any case, they are famished and locked. Right now, they are in too bad of a condition to put up a proper fight, and will be easy pickings against us.” She sighed. “Thankfully, no part of the job put any limits on how much we could destroy the city.” Such was the expected result of laying siege against a city, the tactic they had employed to reduce the risks of attacking straight on to a minimum. Their Valkyrie might’ve been strong enough to overpower common weaponry, however even so it was foolish to simply dive in and hope everything would work out fine. Even with a plan, going in with maximized risks was simply not a good idea. And at the end of the day, they were mercenaries, and the tactics they employed only cared about heightening their rates of success. Things such as honor or morality held no sway over their decisions. “Hmmm…” Seven muttered, somewhat confused. “But, captain, isn’t it safer to wait until they are starved out?” Teresa sighed. “Yes, they lack food and are wont to completely starve eventually, even if they resort to eating each other’s corpses, and therefore the smart thing to do is to keep the city under siege until they die or try something desperate.” “So why…” “Because that would’ve been the smart thing to do under optimal circumstances, but the situation has changed.” Teresa continued. “I’ve waited until proper confirmation to decide on this, but Xirtam has managed to track down the origin of the food supplies.” The first and perhaps main part of their mission had been to retake that city, yes, however, perhaps in an equal amount of importance was their secondary objective. Discovering what hostile group that city had decided to align themselves with. Despite its importance, it was deemed as a secondary objective due to the little chance of it being completed, alas, it seemed fate was kind to them. “Lady Teresa, that is…”“Yay, we’re winning—!”“…” The other three pilots of the group all stared at their leader with different feelings etched on their faces.  “I apologize for only revealing this now, however, this discovery is indeed something new.” She continued. “And is also part of why I’m now deciding to deliver a finishing blow to the enemy.” “What’s more.” The voice coming from the microphone chimed in. “Supplies are running dry. While the pillaged food is enough to keep you afloat, the energy and fuel for the Valkyrie is reaching its end. It would’ve been a close call if you kept waiting, but if you want to pursue these leads, you must do it soon.” “…” Seven grimaced. As a mere pilot, she had avoided thinking about all the logistics, even if something inside of her silently screamed at the fact that they had been running to a complete exhaustion of resources. Now, however, it seemed she was faced with the reality she had avoided. They couldn’t continue for much longer. Even if they had lodging and food, their armaments couldn’t be maintained to accomplish everything. To accomplish the mission, they would inevitably have to take a risk. It might’ve seemed silly to worry so much when they possessed some of the greatest weapons of destruction created, but a risk was a risk. And failing meant death. It wasn’t something all of her peers agreed with, but she would always say, ‘no matter how experienced you are, always treat a situation where you have a chance, no matter how small, to die, with the greatest of all urgencies.’ “Well, I have no more complaints, then.” With a sigh, she reclined back on her chair. “Me neither~!” Asahi said with misplaced cheer. “There’s no need to state something so meaningless, Asahi, silence would’ve worked just fine.” Liebe corrected her with stubborn strictness. “Very well,” Teresa continued. “now, I’ll explain how we’ll be going about this…” With a tone that betrayed no chances for interruption, the leader began to explain the plan that aimed to kill the most while minimizing their chances of dying. Seven sighed as she forced herself to stay still. The rest of her team had scattered, each setting out to do whatever it was they wanted to do before going into combat. ‘Except for me… I can’t calm down no matter what…’ She, on the other hand, could never get comfortable, always assailed by a cruel anxiety and unbearable discomfort. So, it would always be a struggle to either wait until the moment came, or find something to distract herself with and calm down. Through the many missions she had gone to, she had already tried a myriad of things to focus on this moment before the battle, to rid her body of the stress. Alas, nothing had ever worked. This time she tried to just clear her mind and ‘let the time flow’, as she would put it. Of course, a minute later and she had began to pace around, an impossible unease in her gut. “This level of stress can’t at all be healthy…” She muttered so no one else would hear. Alas… “It is indeed not.” A slightly robotic voice called out from her ear. “Ah…!” She had forgotten, the earpiece always remained on for safety measures, save for a few exceptions. As a result, Xirtam was always listening in from her safe spot in headquarters. It was always an awkward situation whenever she forgot about the other woman listening in on her. “I… I see, thank you Xirtam… I’ll keep that in mind.” She scratched her cheek, trying to drown away the embarrassment bubbling in her chest. “Searching for a healthier de-stress mechanism is better than wasting time keeping how unhealthy stress is in mind.” She continued to chide her. “It’s already been a year, so it’s about time you found one.” Seven sighed. A year. That was the amount of time she had spent as a mercenary. Yet, she would always feel anxiety in her gut when she had to go into combat, as if she was a novice having her first time. Nothing she ever tried seemed to do the trick when it came to calming her down, at that point it was something to be ashamed by. Her mind would always be too heavy, her body too floaty. “I guess I just can’t be calm when I have to be so close to death.” “… You…” The voice began. “…no, never mind. As long as the job you’re doing is sufficient then I won’t bother you.” Seven’s body stilled momentarily. She knew perfectly well what Xirtam meant, and was impossibly thankful of the fact she had simply let it go. At the end of the day, no matter how much time passed, she still couldn’t kill people without batting an eye. As a mercenary, that normally was an unacceptable weakness. A shame she shouldn’t be able to bear. The proof she was still green no matter what she did. “…” It was silent again, and she knew the other woman had left their talk in much the same manner as she had started it. Completely stopping when it was past her points of immediate interest. Now alone with her own thoughts and discomfort, being able to only stew in her own anxiety, she sighed. It would do her no good if she went into the mission filled with frayed nerves. She had to find something to do—— “You look rather down.” A confident and commanding voice came from her side. Quickly turning, she saw the approaching Teresa. “What’s more, you were rather distracted back there.” The leader sighed, approaching. “Are you fine?” With the problem of just what to do solved, Seven sighed. “Yeah, just right, just thinking about the mission...” She muttered, leaning back against the wall. “That so…?” Teresa smirked as a hand went up to fiddle with her long hair. “Well then, it’s my duty as your commander to make sure everything’s up to par. Why don’t you share your worries?” “…” It was at moments like those that made Seven well and truly understand what people meant when they talked about love-hate relationships. She sighed, defeated. After more than a year of having known her commander, she knew by now that resistance was meaningless. Xirtam might have been merciful enough to avoid the topic, but the woman dressed in a black-white bodysuit was not so merciful. “I… we sure kill a lot of people.” She laughed mirthlessly. “I wonder… if I don’t get used to it soon, I’ll be a liability, won’t I?” She steeled herself for the reprimand. She knew it wouldn’t be harsh, she knew that woman well enough to know it would even sound like it made sense, but still, she knew that having it thrown on her face when she knew just how bad her situation was would hurt. Or at least, she thought she knew what would happen. Completely unexpectedly, a hand came to reassuringly pet her head. “Well, it is true that losing yourself every time you kill someone is a liability, but…” The woman smiled. “As long as we all are still alive, I don’t think that’s a particularly bad thing.” “Ah, I see, you just enjoy seeing me suffer.” Seven deadpanned. Teresa smiled. “If that’s how you chose to see it.” With a shrug, she continued. “In any case, I think the more important question here would be: do you want to get used to killing others?” “If I… want to?” “Yes, do you want to?” Teresa asked with a nod. “What do you want in life? What kind of person do you want to become? Depending on your answer, then that sort of thing is really not good.” “…” What she wanted… that was a difficult question. For her, for Seven, it was more convenient to simply ignore such a question. If she simply went along with things, she wouldn’t have to face the truth, she wouldn’t have to face the fact that she didn’t have the slightest idea. Life was chaotic, the world full of war and death. What could she do? What would she achieve in that world? No, in the first place, as someone without a past, there was no way she could perceive the future. To ask her of what she wanted to do… it was far too ambiguous a question for someone who couldn’t see past the immediate future. “I guess… I’ll continue to help you guys as a mercenary.” She muttered. “No, that won’t do, I’m afraid.” Teresa chided. “It was something you never had a choice on, and you clearly don’t have a desire to continue the job, so I won’t accept that as your answer.” “… You really don’t like to make things easy for me, huh?” “It’s not meant to be easy.” She shook her head. “And it’s not something I can help you with, either. Until then, though, don’t worry about that hesitation. It’s a bother in missions, and zip it when you can, but don’t feel forced to abandon it just yet.” “… Telling me to do such contradictory things… you really like to make me suffer with complicated matters… besides…” She pouted, her blue eyes glaring at her leader. “Aren’t I too old for this conversation? I’m twenty-two, you know?” Teresa laughed. “No, an amnesiac like you can’t really claim to have lived for longer than she remembers, so as far as I’m concerned you’re a slightly mature child, not even two-years old.” “…” Seven’s glare was relentless. A far away noise called their attention, accompanied by what could only be a cheerful girl and a stern girl arguing. Although, arguing might be a strong word, considering Asahi was most definitely speaking excitedly in her usual cheer. “Teresa, they are at it again. It’s fine if that’s the way they get rid of their nerves, but it’s getting excessive at this point.” Xirtam’s monotone and mechanical voice came up again, making sure they knew just what had happened. The leader sighed. “I see, I’ll get to it, then.” With that, she began walking to the source of the disturbance. Turning behind after a few steps, she gave her farewells. “Bye Seven, do think of what we talked about.” With that, she left. Without a single other word from Xirtam, Seven was left in her lonesome, once again filled with thoughts. At the very least, those thoughts served to distract her from her coming actions. ‘What I want… huh?’ In the end, though, it didn’t matter. She would continue as a mercenary with them, and would continue to kill. Getting used to it… was merely par for the course. In a vast and arid land, one where the horizon was filled with only barren rock formations, stood a great city. One of the places humans chose as their tomb, a ground of hope for a continued existence without continuous war and slaughter. A great field of energy stood above, its blue hue covering the city as if a dome and protecting it from the outside threats only other members of the human species could bring. It was a place built with futuristic architecture and masterful engineering. Tall skyscrapers shot into the sky as if spears meant to pierce the heavens, with countless bridges extended from one place to another, connecting the high pillars. It was all built with a stark white metal, light and resistant. It extended for miles and miles on end, with a single great tower standing above all others, from whence the great protector field that guarded the city sprouted. On days with a clear sky, when one couldn’t see the barren earth outside, it would look close to the human conception of a futuristic utopia. However, on that day, the sun had been overcast. In that place, where it would rain only once every one or two years, the sky had been completely covered by dark gray clouds that blotted out all remaining hope. The inside of that place, once filled with people who went about their day, living to the end of their lives inside of that metallic paradise, was now filled with——— The men gripped their weapons tighter, looking as haggard as they had ever been. It had been happening for an entire day now, the system connected to the force field had been shooting alerts and warnings every now and again, telling them of an enemy attack that never came. Every time the sirens blared the entire town moved, to underground bunkers or the final evacuation tactic, the underground railway station that would take them to a faraway place where they could safely disembark. And every time they would wait with their breaths held, awaiting the time when the first shot would be fired and their lives turned upside down. Yet, every time, nothing would ever happen. They had been at that song and dance for an entire day, now. Every single person in that place had been left exhausted at how many times the same process had been repeated, at how many times their anxiousness had been brought high as they thought they would die. In truth, they would all love to ignore it the next time the sirens blared, to simply accept there was no threat and move on with their lives. However… that wasn’t something they could afford, not when the few reports they had received concerning food supplies mentioned them being destroyed before even arriving.They could not afford to take such things lightly… not when so many had already starved to death, not when so many were on the verge. At this point, all of those who couldn’t fight, who were almost too exhausted to even walk properly, had huddled close to the exits and bunkers. Exhausted from an entire day on edge, hungry, thirsty. A soldier sighed, wondering, hoping, if they weren’t all just going to receive a warning from command that an accident had happened and all those warnings were indeed just true false alarms, without anything lurking in the shadows. He felt the weight behind his eyes, and the pounding of his brain. His body felt haggard and dirty, he just wanted to go sleep and wake up to a better reality, one where they weren’t all dying. It was then— The sirens blasted on full speed again, having received the field’s signal that an attempt on the city’s integrity had been made. He clenched his teeth, looking above in annoyance, searching with his head for any signs of an attack. Tired, exhausted, he expected to see nothing, again, to be able to sigh and just move on with his life. But then… someone screamed. And he could feel the force field shake. “Ah…!” The tremor spread through his entire body and reverberated all the way to his bones. His breathing immediately turned shallow, as he glanced at something far in the sky. A small point of metal being held aloft by thrusters in its back. As he saw it move, raising what he perceived what its arm, he understood— This was different from the last few times. The first time, he was filled with desperation, but the drive to fight whatever invaded had filled his body.Now? As he looked at the Valkyrie up above, he could only feel despair. Alas, the approaching doom that lurked inside their minds the entire day had come, and the end had arrived alongside it. As he saw the figure of metal bring its hand down, his entire being was gripped by fear, and the world he knew reached the beginning of its end. The Valkyrie stood floating high above, held aloft by thrusters that had popped out of its back, their flames blue. It was a being seemingly made out of hundreds of metal plates, a huge rifle in its right hand and an energy blade coming out of its left wrist. The head possessed a sleek horizontal visor for the collection of visual feedback; ideally, there would’ve been more cameras in the back and sides, but she couldn’t find enough space for all that technology.In its shoulder was a mounted cannon, a standard classic for Valkyrie’s heavy weaponry, and out of the shoulder blades several gun barrels took aim. The white paint that coated it wasn’t there out of personal preference, but rather the fact she never bothered to acquire a proper paint job. Its entire inner body had been filled with circuitry and electricity and force field generators, fuel tanks and engines, and, most important, many weapons, such as a secret grenade launcher, an electrical discharge, grappling hooks attached to the right arm, and several hidden and giant blades stood inside its bulky form. This was her Valkyrie, named Fugue, a weapon of destruction she grew ever more familiar with. From inside her claustrophobic chamber of control, she looked down at the city which they had come to liberate, the blue dome that guarded it slowly fading away. Their plan was a simple one.Use the probe that they had planted near the city to send many electric pulses that would trick the field into thinking they were under attack, and then after a while let out. Wearing out their enemies to the point where they would be haggard and unaware. Then, and only then, have Xirtam deactivate the field through a device they would slam into the solid metal walls that surrounded the city. After that, catching them surprised and tired—— She looked down at the now open city. Liebe had been the one assigned to use her Valkyrie to plant a device Xirtam could use into the wall; right now, in the air above the city, at three different spread out points, were she, Teresa, and Asahi. Theirs was the duty to deal the first blow and open the path to a decisive end to the massacre. She breathed in and out, calming the frayed nerves inside her body, and thrust the control sticks forward—!! And the Valkyrie descended from the skies. Leaving a trail behind, it soared through the skies in an arc. Its speed was blinding and its form giant. The emergency sirens blared at full force all throughout the city, screaming of the end. The soldiers that remained above screamed orders at each other. Filled with malnutrition and confusion they started running and aiming with their guns; the ones responsible for the anti-air turrets began the process of taking aim and utilizing their giant weapons. However, for this untrained and unhealthy rabble, taking aim at the zooming point in the air was an impossible request. Even if they began shooting with wild abandon, using all the guns at their disposal, their chances of hitting even stray bullets was close to zero. And then one of them realized, as he stopped aiding in the using and aiming of the AA-turret and looked at the trajectory of the Valkyrie— He screamed, trying to warn all of his companions of the despairing discovery.Just what he wanted them to do was a mystery, however, as he should’ve well known there was not a single hint of salvation left. “Hey, I’m telling you, that thing is coming right over—” His warnings were never finished. In a single instant, the blurring figure that was flying in the air rushed at them, or rather, their position. With a terrifying display of durability and strength, it pierced all the way through the building, bursting out the other side with an explosive sound! Immediately, it performed an air maneuver, turning around and halting its momentum, as it watched the just attacked building collapse amidst rubble, smoke, and tremors. So blaringly loud was the volume of the fall, she couldn’t even hear the terrified and desperate screams of the enemy. With the first of the AA-turrets own, the Valkyrie turned around and moved ahead with its thrusters at full power, aiming straight toward the next one. The cloud of smoke and dirt kicked into the air from the falling building invaded the streets, consuming whomever had stood in them as if a rushing wave. And those who didn’t——  The assistant AI acted, identifying and taking aim at all of the small beings laying down far below, running for their lives and trying to shoot down the metallic beast in the skies. With the click of a single button, the guns in Fugue’s shoulder blades unleashed a valley of hyper-precise bullets, and in a single second, all of the humans that had been so desperate became nothing more than stains coloring the city’s streets, victims of a mercilessly flyby. Splattered organs, pooling blood, fallen corpses.Countless were the numbers as they began to color he town red, as if the riders were painters, the Valkyrie their brushes, and the dead their paint. Explosions began echoing all throughout the city, no doubt the job of her allies.The town became a cacophony of sounds as gunshots, screams, sirens, thrusters, and explosions all began to compete in noise. Filtered by the sound receptors of the machine, all the meaningless noise was deleted and presented only as numbers on a screen, solely the sounds the assistant AI deemed useful were played back inside the cockpit, at a reasonable volume. A few hundred meters to the side of the Valkyrie, an explosion of fire and debris burst out. She didn’t need to be told just who had fired that missed shot. Looking up ahead, she saw a towering building, and atop of it… was her second target. Rushing toward the enemy building, she brought out the blade of energy that came out of her left wrist. Another explosion came, this time, too behind her instead of to the side. She paid no heed to their desperate and failed attempts, choosing to continue her offensive. Reaching melee range of the building, she thrust her great wrist-blade forward piercing deep into the structure. And, without stopping even once, her thrusters immediately assumed a new formation, changing her forward momentum into upwards momentum. An aerial maneuver performed with an impossibly high degree of control. With her blade still pierced deep within the building, she dragged it through the structure as she flew upward, tearing a hole as she went. Within a few seconds, she reached the top.Without stopping, not for even a second, she continued to drag her blade. It burst out of the ceiling with an explosive sound, tearing it apart and cleaving right through the turret that had attempted to bring her down. The few soldiers that hadn’t been thrown off the building by that attack were left as sitting ducks. Bringing its leg upward, the Valkyrie delivered an aerial sweeping kick toward the roof, swiping both it and any survivors from existence. As the second bastion of defense fell, the Valkyrie once again turned around and shot forth to its next target, its coordinates, much like those of the other ones, already locked in on the tracker. Smoke, dust, and dirt slowly began overtaking the entirety of the overcast city, blanketing it in soot and complete darkness. Hundreds and hundreds of bullets shot through the air, however their existence only served to alert the pilots of where to perform another drive-by. From the very beginning, it couldn’t be called a battle. This situation was in fact more akin to a massacre. The final primary target assigned to her approached, a final building possessing an AA-turret. The cameras caught the image of the gun and the soldiers perfectly, telling her of just where and how to strike. The Valkyrie tore through the skies at high speeds, threatening a final blow to the tower. The panels and screens inside of its control cockpit flashed red, and the next instant— With a spin, it dashed to the side without losing any momentum, and soon behind it an explosion rang true. It had been an accurate shot against it. The pilot sighed. It seemed the enemy had finally realized those models had AIs that would aim for them. Alas, it was far too late for that realization. The turret screamed once more, and another bullet flew toward the oncoming enemy— Alas, with another twirl, the machine dodged again. And another came, this time faster than the last. And again, with even more precision, the Valkyrie swiftly dodged to the side. “Reload—!” The soldiers manning the turret screamed, hurrying to get the weapon ready for another shot, desperate to shoot down the approaching enemy. With a level of teamwork and coordination some of them thought to not even be possible, they quickly loaded the bullet and set the weapon to fire. However, the next instant— “Shit—”“Here it comes!!” The monster of metal smashed into the roof, completely crushing and discarding the AA-turret with its tackle. “Shit!”“Shoot! Shoot!” Those who hadn’t been knocked out or away by the tackle quickly regained their bearings, going for the guns in their hips. They never had a chance to fire them. With a swift turn, the Valkyrie aimed upwards— and reeved its thrusters in maximum output of power. Blue flames exploded out of them, the heat completely scorching whomever had been left below. The next instant, propelled by such power, the monster of metal flew into the sky. A Valkyrie with white coloring and pink accents dashed through the streets, in its hands a spear larger than it was tall.The metal plating that composed its body and armor had been severely stylized by its owner’s sunny disposition, giving it a rather feminine look. However, it didn’t matter how cute or fun she tried to make her metal monstrosity look like, it seemed that whenever people, especially enemies, laid their eyes upon it, all that would come out of their throats was a scream. With wheels deployed, her Valkyrie slid across the slowly shattering concrete, running over whomever had been on her path, smearing the ground she passed through red. Most soldiers opted to try and run for their lives, however, the few that did try and shoot her dead soon learned that their efforts and despair were meaningless and quickly died. “Ahaha, it’s all going fine, all going just fine!” She cheered on obliviously as she controlled her Valkyrie with a wealth of experience. Her job in this had been the same as Seven’s. Destroy a set number of AA-turrets in a given set of coordinates, then follow the information Xirtam transferred to them by the probe and kill everyone it detected. “Like this Asahi will finish her extra job in no time!” Cheering herself and her happy predicament on, the girl continued to massacre everyone in sight, ignoring their screams and scared faces. Although she had been given the same job as Seven, she also had a relatively more important task, before she could fully commit. In the map displayed at the top right corner of the camera feed, red points shone like beacons. According to Xirtam, those were the points where the city had built bunkers in the case of attacks. It was a simple addition to the overall task of searching and destroying, and she would proudly claim she had already accomplished a lot by destroying two bunkers filled with people. “Because Asahi does a good job every time!” Automatic guns coming out of the Valkyrie’s wrists, being aimed by the auxiliary AI, rained gunfire upon whomever got out of the road she ran through. The thrusters on her back propelled her Valkyrie at ridiculous speeds, allowing her to cover the entire city in a matter of minutes. In the map, another point that indicated her target shone close to her position. She smiled, happy to achieve yet another task. The place had even more soldiers than on the normal streets, every single one giving her a murderous look as they aimed their automatic rifles at her. “Ah it’s the same as the last ones…” She nodded to herself, taking note of her surroundings. “That’s good, it means Asahi’s in the right place!” With that claim, the guns in her wrists shifted, adopting a formation and position that would allow the four on each side to shoot freely. In an instant and in tandem with her enemies, all guns began firing in a deafening and blinding display of firepower. But while the enemies were quickly being mowed down into red paste on the walls, her Valkyrie was able to completely ignore the aggression going on around it. Slowly marching forth and raising her spear, she aimed it downwards, toward where she knew the underground bunker would be. The remaining soldiers screamed, some in desperation, some begged her to stop, some cursed her. Asahi did not give them the time of her day— Thrusters lit up in the back of the spearhead, propelling it at ludicrous speeds toward the ground, and piercing right through the concrete and the hyper-resistant bunker-walls. Whomever had been directly below had been instantly turned into a fine red mist. But that wasn’t enough, not even close to it. The underground structure was big, and the few that had been killed by that would be an impossibly small fraction of the total. But then again, that was part of why Asahi had been chosen for the job. She made sure the spear was assuredly inside the bunker. From the body of the great spearhead, small iron plates moved to reveal a few secret compartments. From them, a collection of small round objects came popping out and falling to the ground. Dozens upon dozens, if not hundreds, of grenades fell out. Happily knowing they had all already been primed for an explosion, she set her thrusters to maximum potency and flew high above, the heat and the flames killed a good majority of the few soldiers that hadn’t been already killed, either because they had hidden away or because they had been in a blind spot for her guns. The few that hadn’t been killed were not a worry, after all—— With a tremor that once again shook the entire city, a great burst of fire and wind broke the ground beneath in a most destructive explosion.It instantly consumed all the soldiers still left above, their faces having been filled with tears of sadness and desperation when the girl thrust her spear underground. There was no need to even say such a thing, but all that had been inside of the bunker were immediately killed by the blast. “Haha, Asahi’s done a good job again.” She cheered from her position in the air. “Now let’s hurry up and finish the others, else Liebe’s gonna get mad!” With a cheerful disposition she flew through the air, through the city that was being consumed by giant dust clouds, debris, and death. The black Valkyrie floated slowly in the sky. It was different from the rest attacking the city. With a much greater bulk than the others, and an expertly made design. From a single glance one could tell it was superior to the others in every single way. A dark body filled with golden accents, the highlights of which are the golden lines that resemble tears on its ‘face’, hands that extend into wicked claws, a shining armor that more resembles a carapace.On its back, three pairs of dark and metallic rods protruded, faint lights coming out of their bottoms, signaling one of their functions as silent and efficient high-tech thrusters. As if a god ascending to its heaven, it flew upwards without bothering to change its pose, remaining still as if standing on the ground. What it now slowly flew upwards to was the top of the lengthy tower that marked the center of the city. There were four kinds of people in that city they attacked.Those who fought and died.Those who ran and died.Those who hid and died.And the ones who organized it all, hoping to minimize the deaths. Of course, it was an implicit part of the job, that their death was a foregone conclusion before the fight even began. Asahi and Seven would deal with those who fought and hid, and Liebe would deal with those who ran. That only left her with a single group to pursue, the ones who commanded this defense, who tried their best to save as many as they could. Alas, their efforts were in vain. Because not a single person would be spared. Teresa sighed inside her Valkyrie. It wasn’t out of boredom, and the tension inside of her was not let out with it. Rather, it was a sign of resignation to her own position, one that led her to feel as if she did no real collaboration to the battle. As the leader, she experienced much less battle than her team members. Her job rested more in the act of organizing them, making sure everything was working correctly, and leading them. While she also took on the job of destroying a few AA-turrets, she could not afford to get into the true battlefield. She was better utilized taking care of things and dealing only important blows to the enemy. Such as this one, the end of any and all command structure that might remain in the enemy, the destruction of the tallest tower, arguably a symbol for the city-state. Still, it wasn’t without its perks, especially when it easily allowed her to check up on something she had wished to. At that height, the winds billowed with the ferocity of a hurricane. Still, the monster of metal seemed unfazed, continuing its slow ascent into the tower. It could’ve gone faster, in fact, it didn’t even need to ascend the tower as it could’ve destroyed it long ago and without much trouble. Rather, she chose this method for a personal reason.It was inefficient, yes, but since she could see, from the reports Xirtam kept sending her, that her group was performing very well in dealing with the enemy forces, so it was something she could afford to be inefficient with. As long, of course, as her team did not get into trouble or they didn’t manage a way to properly organize a counter attack. The top of the tower approached. It was the heart of their defense, the center of command. The great top floor that stood with walls of glass, allowing the ones inside to glance at the entire city below them. On any other day, it would’ve been a magnificent view. Now, however, it could only overlook destruction and desolation. The people inside the high-tech room looked at her, having ascended to just outside of their room. Some were on the ground, in fear, some passed out, but the vast majority… stood there, looking at her with saddened but resolute expressions. It was needless to say, but those were the ones who had already come to terms with death. It was a sad reality, really. They seemed heartbroken at the end result, but still chose to face death head-on. Perhaps it was courage, perhaps it was just resignation. But, for an instant, death did not come. The Valkyrie simply chose to stare ahead, taking a good look at the downtrodden men. They all seemed somewhat malnourished and hungry, but all wore good clothes, and were all well-groomed. They were all clearly well used to their posts, and did their best to coordinate the defense. At the far end of the room, standing with his arms behind his back and a neat suit, stood their boss, an old man responsible for that city. He, more than anyone else, stared defiantly in the face of certain death, accepting it just as much as he cursed and challenged it. For an instant, she observed them through her camera feed, her expression unreadable and mind overcast. Briefly, a connection, secret from the rest of her team, had been made with the tower. Hacked information flowed into her machine.It barely took a glance to find what she had been seeking. “I see.” She muttered. Then, an instant before hope could come to their faces, that maybe she wouldn’t be there to kill them— she pressed a button inside her cockpit. Instantly, through the entire length of the tower, one after another, entire chunks of the walls and structure burst out. That had been her intent going up slowly. Dozens upon dozens of small drones had been deployed and stuck to the tower. As soon as the button was pressed and the signal sent, they each deployed a small pulse that caused the walls to vibrate and explode. Before a second could pass, the greatest tower fell, collapsing in on itself. Whomever had been inside and around, regardless of how well they had hidden or tried to defend themselves, was instantly killed as thousands of tons of concrete fell down to crush them. The tremor shook the entire city, and a great cloud of dust and debris rose to cover the sky. She had achieved what she sought. Without a single word spoken, the Valkyrie that floated in the air as if a god turned around and moved away. The ceiling above cracked, giving way to light and a mechanical aberration. It was a subterranean space that seemed to stretch on forever in the darkness, something that, up until that point, had been unburdened by the destruction above. Its form was that of a circular tunnel with train tracks down on the ground. This… was the underground evacuation system. It contained a multitude of tracks that would allow for escape in different directions, only stopping at their own secret station in the middle of nowhere.The train that would carry all those people to safety was not only massive, but impossibly fast as well, so much so that even fighter jets struggled to compete in speed. Of course, no matter how big it was, or how fast it could go, it would never be able to fit the entire town in there, no matter how cramped they made it.Which was also why there were so many shelters, so that those that couldn’t escape could hope to remain safe. The Valkyrie’s steps ominously echoed through the sealed tracks as it took a few steps in each direction. Liebe’s expression inside the Valkyrie remained serious and focused, not letting up for even a second. Although the role given to her wasn’t as action packed as Asahi and Seven’s, or as symbolic as Teresa’s, it could perhaps be said to be the most important. Her tasks were two. The first one was to aid Xirtam in hijacking the barrier that prevented entry. The second one was to make sure no evacuees could succeed in escaping. It was a terrorist cell they were up against, after all. Whether they were the wounded or the executives, they were dangerous, and allowing them escape was a liability that could bring trouble in the future.    To prevent escape, there were three things she had to do. The first one was preventing anyone trying to escape through the ground. That had been simple; whether someone tried to run away on foot or by vehicle, there would be an undeniable need to pass through the walls of the city, so she completely trashed all of the exits, blocking them with an impassable amount of rubble.The second was to prevent anyone from escaping by air. While reactivating and maintaining the barrier once they were inside was a reasonable option, it wasn’t viable, given that they would need it for something else. In this case, she could only trust in her teammates to shoot down any aircraft.Finally, the third; preventing escape through the underground. That was the reason the barrier had been occupied. Due to Xirtam’s eximious abilities, they had managed to not only erase the barrier preventing them from entering, they had also managed to re-route it to the underground. Making it so it completely prevented the train from passing through. After that, it was only a matter of blowing it up to smithereens. Of course, it couldn’t have been immediate. Since the result would’ve made it harder to access and destroy the bunkers, she had had to wait for Asahi to be done with them. Now that she was ready, this attack would mark the end, the death or this city and their enemies. Everything after was just a formality, a funeral service.    A powerful tremor suddenly came about, threatening to have even the Valkyrie lose its balance and forcing some debris to begin falling from the ceiling. Needless to say, it was due to the result of an explosion in the battlefield above. Checking the screens inside her cockpit, she looked for a report for an explanation of what had just happened. “I see,” she muttered when it was finally sent to their communication network. “it seems Lady Teresa’s plans are moving along swiftly.” For a moment, she smiled, completely losing her seriousness. “But that’s to be expected, it is her, after all.” Nodding to herself and deciding she would better deal with the situation to avoid any risks of the ground above collapsing on her, she continued her search. Without ever venturing too far from the hole she had opened, she used her Valkyrie to explore a few of the many paths in that underground labyrinth. On her Valkyrie’s shoulder, behind the mechanical armor, shining faintly every time it stepped onto a new path, was a small sonar that took note of everything at the end of those tunnels. It was a necessity in that place deep underground, where they could not utilize the planted probe to accurately locate their targets. It would also prevent her from having to track every single one of those paths to discover what lay beyond them. It saved her time, yes, but there was more than that— “… Found you.” With a sigh, she muttered to herself. She had finally found the path that the train had chosen to escape through. The data collected by the radar was quickly processed and rendered before being displayed to her on the cockpit’s screens. A dozen different measures and estimates collected by the sonar, but more importantly, it contained the exact coordinates to follow to reach the target, alongside a 3D map of the path. She checked the collected information. There was a myriad of people in that behemoth of a train. And the vast majority of them was already dead. Not expecting that the forcefield would be preventing passage from underground, it was only logical that the train, moving at impossibly high velocities, would crash straight into it. Derailed, crushed, bent, bloodied, broken. What was once a proud creation of mankind, a feat of engineering that could transport close to the entire city’s population to a far away place in a very short period of time, was now nothing more than complex scrap. Still, it wasn’t something to ignore. A lot of the people boarding it were still alive. Regardless of anything else, killing them was a major concern. Keeping the pathing made to the train saved, she walked her Valkyrie to the place where she made her entrance. There was only one thing to be done. End the survivors and bring an end to it all. Without a hint of sympathy or mercy, she pressed the controls on her monstrosity of metal. A shoulder mounted cannon was a standard piece of equipment, a solid option if one wanted true heavy firepower in their Valkyrie. Hers, however, went a step further in destructive power and weight. It raised itself from its resting place on the Valkyrie’s back and moved to her left shoulder. Unraveling with a mechanical whirl, the slab of metal that had been playing at being a cannon unfolded into a complex monstrosity with a large and long barrel. A small light near the gun’s barrel turned green, signifying it was ready to fire. Liebe took a deep sigh. This was going to be a very time sensitive matter. She primed the Valkyrie’s thrusters, loaded the coordinates into the guided missile about to be fired, and for a final time she checked the composition of the air. It was a handy little thing, a superfluous addition to her Valkyrie, something only there because she had a small open space for more technology. A small device that would sample and analyze the air, giving her an idea of its components and their abundance. Right now, inside of that sewer… everything was just as she wanted and needed to. With a hand hovering the button to fire, and another hovering over the control to fire her thrusters and fly her out of there at a moment’s notice, she closed her eyes and took a final breath. It was dangerous, but then again, her Lady Teresa had personally assigned her that mission, and she would not, by any means, fail. The message for her companions to steer clear of the ground was sent long ago, there was nothing to hold her back. Opening her determination-filled eyes one final time, she pressed the button and fired the guided missile toward the remains of the enemy. Instantly after, she slammed her hand down the thruster’s controls and flew her Valkyrie up through the hole she came in through. In a matter of seconds, the missile blew through the underground pathways, breaking the surrounding underground structure as it went, such was its force. Her Valkyrie, on the other hand, flew into the dust covered world above, emerging and flying into the skies at top speeds. Within the next second, the missile reached its target, the train and the people—! It burst. As if birthing a new sun, without any fanfare or warning, it consumed the entire surroundings, alongside everyone who had been in that train, dead, injured, or otherwise. It didn’t stop there. The conditions were just right, the air pressure and the compressed state just enough, and so were the chemical elements composing the air. It was all ignited by the unsightly powerful missile. A chain reaction started, and with a tremor that shook the entire city, the explosion spread through the entirety of the trainline. A mad expansion of heated air that sought to release all its energy. With all of its might, the explosion pushed against the countless tons of earth, de-stabilizing the ground. In a matter of seconds, in a section where the ground was weaker, in sealed sections that would normally lead to the underground, in what would normally connect to the underground, there was a burst. Tens of thousands of tons of solid rock were thrown in the air, the ground and streets bulged out and became unstable, the foundations of countless buildings broke and they fell, and countless geysers of burning air popped out of the ground. That was the final blow. That city was turned into a ruin by that group’s vicious attack. Any who survived up until that point, surely no more than a dozen soldiers who hid away and lucked out, were sure to be picked off. In what was once a place where people lived, was nothing but destruction, bloodshed, and dust. With a mechanical and hissing sound, the carcass of a Valkyrie’s back opened. From there, a human body crawled out, using the Valkyrie’s back as support to keep standing in it while glancing at the world. She and Fugue now rested atop a building. Her body covered by a bodysuit, her blond hair fluttering with the wind of destruction, and her face donning a gas mask that would filter the rubble and debris covered air. In front of her, what was once a city was now a ruin, the once pure air was now a grey agglomerate dust and smog. She could no longer see the red that had so vividly painted the streets when she shot the enemies down, nor could she hear their screams. “…” She clenched her right arm. Her scars were tingling, aching, burning. The old scars that loitered her body would always cry out in phantom pain whenever she went to such a battlefield. It was more than just inconvenient in her profession, especially when they were already a bother to deal with normally. There were no more people alive. The only ones left were her and her team, having finally killed all the stragglers. She looked to the sky, and saw the different Valkyrie that composed her team approaching. In a short while, they all landed close to her. It was as much as a rendezvous point as it was confraternization. Asahi was the first one to jump out of her Valkyrie. “Yahooo!” She exclaimed, her running around with her pink bodysuit and hair, her face now also covered by a gas-mask. “Asahi’s team did it! We did it!” She ran around and twirled on the almost-collapsing-building’s roof. Her joy truly child-like. “Wasn’t it amazing Seven? Wasn’t it great?” She asked, suddenly approaching her. “…” The answer died in her mouth. Vertigo assaulted her, her vision swam. Her scars burned. “…” She tried to move, she tried to connect her brain to the nerves in her muscles, but it all came out moot. She couldn’t even begin to breathe hysterically, since her body and lungs wouldn’t even begin to obey her unstable mind. Her thoughts moved like slugs. Dragging themselves, squirming, melting. They were incomprehensible and not sane. If they could even be classified as thoughts in the first place. “——————Ah….” She managed a small mumble, but even that control vanished as soon as it came. Her ego melted, her sense of self distorted. The only thing that stretched into eternity was a single emotion. Disgust. “Heyo, Seveeeeen?” A loud, high-pitched, cheerful, and slightly annoyed voice brought her back to her senses. “Ah…. ah…” She breathed in greedily, her posture faltering slightly. She had lost herself again.It wasn’t something she could truly pinpoint the origin of, but without failure, without exception, whenever she killed someone, vertigo like that would assault her and phantom pain would burn through her scars. When it would come, and at what intensity, was never certain, but it would always come.It came more commonly as a faint lapse long after the event, like the one she had at the pre-battle briefing; a small crisis, like the one she just had, was a much rarer occurrence. The worst part of it all, however, was that once her mind finally returned to control, she was only left able to feel the pain in her scars. As if a thousand needles pierced her skin, as if boiling oil was poured down her body, as if those scars tried to consume her body like a cancer, and she could feel every cell being killed. “Ah…” Asahi’s face visibly drooped. “your scars are hurting again, aren’t they?” Finally realizing the pain her friend and teammate was in, she voiced her thoughts. Her voice was filled with a childish sympathy that brought about no action from her part. “I swear… you ought to do something about that, Seven.” Liebe came around. “It can become a liability far too easily. Right, Lady Teresa?” “…” “Lady Teresa?” Liebe asked, realizing no response came. Turning around, she saw her still standing in her Valkyrie. Glancing at the fallen city with a bothered expression, Teresa clicked her tongue. “It’s fine.” She said before turning around to address the remainder of the team with a determined expression. “I hereby declare this mission a success. Rest for a while, we’ll be soon returning to base and getting ready to depart, we must hurry and find out who this city-state was collaborating with.” ““Yes, ma’am!”” With a quick salute, they all accepted the orders given to them by their leader. “Good.” With those words, she went back to her Valkyrie without saying even a single word. That single moment of acknowledgement was all the time they all could manage to remain serious. As soon as it was done, Asahi deflated out of her seriousness straight back into her cheerfulness. “Alright, let’s rest!” She said confidently and full of energy, as if doing whatever she thought to do with her boundless excitement would qualify as ‘rest’. “Sure, sure…” Seven said with an awkward expression, the pain in her scars slow to fade away. Silently, she turned her gaze to the rest of the destroyed city. For a moment, there was some sort of silence, with the only sound to be heard being Asahi’s excited voice as she walked from one side to the other. “…” As she gazed out into the destruction, she could almost feel herself being drawn in by her thoughts again. “Seven?” A voice called out to her. “… Ah…” She murmured, realizing Liebe had started a conversation. “Sorry, Liebe, I didn’t quite catch that, what did you just say?” The long-haired woman sighed and adjusted her glasses. “As I said, you look rather dull right now. If you don’t get rid of whatever it is right now it can prove dangerous in other missions.” “…” She sighed, already well used to how her teammate operated. “The mission was a success, and we rid the threat of this city proceeding with their destructive intentions…” “That we did.” Liebe said with a nod. “What of it?” She kept on gazing at the city that became dust and ruins. “But… we destroyed a lot of it… and a lot of people died.” She murmured. “This again? I thought you accepted this was how it was after the first time.” Liebe sighed, severely bothered. “This isn’t something you should be bothering. The enemy was evil, and all you were doing was your mission of bringing people’s homes back to them, feeling pity will only lead to trouble.” “She is right.” Having apparently been listening in to their conversation through the communicator, Xirtam added her two cents. “This was a terrorist cell that was all too happy to completely take people’s homes, and you protected countless by dealing with them. It might seem rough, but what you did wasn’t the wrong thing. Besides, if it still worries you, there were neither children nor elderly in this place, I could tell. In here were only those who actively sought to kill and destroy.” As if proclaiming her latest display had proved her Seven’s actions were not sufficient, Xirtam chimed in to chastise her, despite her earlier reluctance. She sighed. “I know…” She shook her head, banishing it of her thoughts and the images of the devastated city. “It’s just something that bothers me… but no matter, I’m used to dealing with it, by now.” “Good, make sure this stays in that thick head of yours.” Liebe said with a huff.“…” “Liebe, Seven, we are going to rest!” Asahi’s angry voice called back to them, annoyed that they hadn’t joined her. Liebe gave out an annoyed sigh. “You truly don’t have an ounce of respect and maturity, do you?” Despite that, she gracefully began walking toward Asahi. “Are you not going?” An inquisitive voice asked through her ear’s communicator. “No, I… I’m going.” With a hesitant voice, she began walking. With the overcast sky above, she couldn’t help but wonder, why did she feel such uneasiness in the wake of a battlefield? She wasn’t a newbie, and she knew what she did was right, so by all means it should’ve been an easy thing to face. ‘Maybe it’s my age…’ She wondered, looking for a reason why. ‘If it is, then I guess I can’t complain about some naivety.’ It sounded like a logical explanation for her, after all, despite her body’s age, Seven as she was now was barely older than a year. Consumed by such thoughts, she joined her companions. Brokencore Wheew, I can't believe how long it took me to get something else out, considering my last story was writen in June 2022, even if it was only published in the end of the year. Alas, this was the one that ended up being posted. Now, the last one had a neat weekly update schedule since it was already writen, however this one... I'll do my best to post as fast as possible. In any case, thank you very much for reading this, and I hope you'll enjoy what's coming!

"I hope whoever transmigrated me here ends up in hell! If you were going to give me a new life, why did you put me in the body of this crazy bastard?" I was yelling at the ceiling in anger, cursing out the one responsible for my sudden trip.  I knew that no response was coming my way, but it did help release the pent-up stress I had received by suddenly being placed into a such a situation. Why was I so angry? It was because the character I had transmigrated into was insane, and only one look at his room would reveal that to you. The walls were covered in pictures of women of various ages, all of them beautiful in their own way. The most predominant images were ones of a silver haired girl in a school uniform, and they ended up taking up a whole wall by themselves. In fact, if you looked deep into the closet, you would find a shrine directly dedicated to this single girl, filled with various questionable objects.  The thing I found most disgusting was in fact, my new diary. The contents of it made me want to vomit, and I was this close to handing myself over to the police for questioning.  [She was wearing a new perfume today, and only I seemed to notice.] [She said she liked the color blue, just like me! We are practically made for each other.] [I followed her back to her house after school, but I was disappointed when I realized that all the houses near her were already occupied.] [I broke into her house again to take a new batch of photos, but she seemed to sense me right away! We truly are soul mates destined to be together.] Kieran Blackmore, a villainous mob from a novel I had read, was who I had become. I was the stalker who was obsessed with the female lead. A character that had attacked anybody interested in her like a wild dog. That was why was I was later slaughtered by the protagonist for my criminal actions. I remember wholeheartedly approving of the scene when it was released in the story but imagining myself dying in such a ruthless manner made me pale. But I had more urgent manners to think about then my own death, and that was my room. Now that I had become Kieran, I needed to get rid of all this junk. Thier was no way I could sleep with so many creepy pictures arrayed all over my walls. In the end, it took my 2 hours to get rid of every single alarming piece of evidence in my home. Then, I put them together and then manually burned them in my fireplace. Not a scrap of this would be left by the time I was through, no matter how thorough I needed to be. "That should be enough! No more weird pictures clinging all over my walls, and the shrine no longer exists." Looking at my wallpaper, which was ripped all over because of the removal, I felt proud despite the damage done. I had been working on this for over an hour after all. Actually, now that I think about it, I was so caught up in cleaning the house that I forgot one of the most important things in this world  [Status Window], part of the System that exists within the novel, [Martial God of the Academy]. Showing every Awakened their Stats, Talents and Abilities. Kieran was no exception to this rule, so I should have my own status screen, right? I was probably getting my hopes up, since his stats were bound to be trash. After all, with how fast he was dealt with in the novel, he was more of an extra then an actual villain. From the story, I know that his Talent was [Follower], a talent that increased the power of his skills when following someone else. This Talent was the main reason he could stalk the heroine without getting caught. After lowering my expectations, I activated my status window by muttering it in my own mind. [Name: Kieran Blackmore] [Talent: Shadowed- All abilities enhanced when following a target and synchronize with them, affinity with Darkness increased.] [Skills: Capture (Intermediate High)- Zoom in on a distant target,  Detection (Intermediate High)- Track down a target from a distance,  Stealth (Intermediate High)- Targets are unable sense your position, Perspective (Intermediate High)- See through obstacles to reach your target, Power Strike (Low High)- Charge Mana into an attack to increase damage. Archery Comprehension (Low High)- Increases skills with a bow and arrow.] [Strength: F, Dexterity: E, Constitution: F, Mana: F+, Vitality: F+] "What the hell is this?" Looking at the neatly aligned information on the screen, I was getting a massive headache. I mean, I expected it to be bad, but this was just weird. Why did he only have one attack skill? Among my stats, only my Dexterity was average, and everything else was subpar. it seems like Kieran really invested everything into his stalking, to the point that even his status board was screwed up. The strangest part was my Talent, which was different than what it was in the novel. Instead of [Follower] like I was expecting, the screen showed the Talent [Shadowed]. The Skill increase part reminded me of [Follower] but the rest was unknown to me. I mean, what did synchronize even mean? The only explanation I could come up with for my new Talent was Talent Evolution, which happened only a few times in the entire novel. The whole premise of the story revolved around the concept, with the main character having his Talent [Mortal] evolve into [Immortal] after accepting the inheritance of the Heavenly Demon. I guess me possessing him was a big enough change to force his Talent to evolve. "Actually, my status isn't as bad as I thought it would be, the distribution is just weird."  [Shadowed] seemed like an improvement from Kieran's previous Talent, and the level of my Skills were extremely high. Of course they were only that high because of Kieran's stalking, but I can take anything at this point. Now I only need to even out my status and avoid the main characters  "That should be easy? Now I feel like I jinxed myself."

I don’t believe in fairy tales, I felt like I always knew better than to believe some stupid made-up story about how the world was created. Now, this might seem crazy, and I always get crazy looks from people when I tell them this story... “Hey, Kim! Come check this out!” Kane said levitating a ballpoint tip pen off the palm of his hand, rotating slowly without a touch. “That sucks dude, show us next time when it gets better!” Jin then threw one of the pencils from his pencil case at Kane’s head, causing him to drop his pen and playfully pushing back Jin, “Shut up, heat boy, go warm up my coffee. Hey Kim, how’s the ship going?” “Almost done, get me my science tool, I need to be careful with the controls...” Kim said, inspecting the ship’s main controls with precision. “One science tool coming up.” Jin then passed Kim his sturdy metal baseball bat. “Ah yes… science.” Kim then proceeded to gently slam his baseball bat furiously into the ship’s main controls in an attempt to start it up. Though to no surprise, the engine began to run, heavily shaking the small, humble red ship covered in graffiti.   “You think you can get it off the ground?” Kane asked, leaning on Kim's shoulder as he gazed at the controls. “Highly doubt it, want to risk it?”  “Fuck it, just go for it.” Kane then leaned forward from the backseat, accelerated the engine, barely pushing it off the ground very slightly hovering. Everyone grabbing on tightly onto their seats as the ship shakes drastically as it tries its best to push itself further off the ground. “It’s not budging! Jin do something!” Kim yelled as he tried to steer the ship off the ground. The ship shaking intensely with scraps of the ship peeling off bit by bit as the ship scrapes against the floor desperately trying to lift itself. “My bag!” Jin rushed and took out a shirt and wrapped it around his fist, heating the window before smashing the window, “Kane, pull it up now!” Kane then pushed Jin to the side and shoved his hand outside, desperately trying to pull the ship off the ground, “Pull!” Kane yelled as both he and Kim tried pulling the ship up, Kane’s arm feeling the physical toll, his arm’s veins bulging out and limbs violently shaking, his nose began to bleed, “Jin!” Jin snapping his fingers repeatedly in the back, trying to start a flame, “Liftoff!” adding a burst of flame towards the jet engine, pushing the ship off the ground allowing Kane and Kim to easily lift the ship off the ground and into the sky.  “Yes! We did it! Oh my god, we did it!” Kim yelled in absolute joy.  “Take a rest, Kane, you’ve earned it...” Jin said, patting Kane on the back. “I- bwer~ yea…” Kane mumbled. Suspended in the clouds, soaring above, Jin stumbled into the passenger seat in the front next to Kim to get a better view, “Sweet, got anything you want to say now that we’re up here?” “Hell yeah, man, hold the wheel.” Kim then poked his head out of the window, “Bye earth! Thanks for nothing!”  There was a peaceful moment of silence as they both took in the scene... “Haha… we’re going to crash soon aren’t we…” Jin said getting his bag from the back. “Yeah…” This is the story about how I managed to leave earth…

Long ago, there was a war in heaven.  Long ago, there was a war on earth.  We begin in an airship, cruising in a sea of clouds.  Go closer, into the ship's cargo hold. It is dark–no, dim, the only illumination from the torches hung on the balls, the bracket of each which held a chunk of softly glowing stone, a light-blue, rough-hewn crystal. It was dry, for that was the conditions that suited the goods that were being carried the most: grain, salt, dried foodstuffs, and chemical and magical reagents.  Against a wooden pillar, a girl was slumped, sleeping. Her dark but lightening hair was unkempt, held up by a faded yellow ribbon into a ponytail, which was threatening to slip and come undone. Over her shoulders and under her arms were wide straps that held leather armour to her front and back, armour which had not been taken off for a while. The metal plates that usually fitted over it were missing, lost. Tucked into a nook of her leather armour was a torn poster of cheap paper, crumpled. On it was two faces, and the following two lines:  Requesting the capture of Yuki Whiterock and her companion, Sophie Bellisaria.  Wanted for questioning about involvement with illegal arcane experiments. In her right hand was a sword in its scabbard, gently curved compared to the straight floorboards. Even in her sleep her fingers still curled around it, unable to fully let go. On her exposed wrists beneath long sleeves, where bandages were loose, were small patches of blue that were rough like snakeskin or scales, patches that did not blend in with her fair skin.  On her lap slumbered another girl, whose hair, long and the rose-pink of the Bellisarias, fell into a pool on the floor. Compared to the tunic of her companion, her clothes were slightly less plain: a dark red skirt, and a blouse of matching color, with a white collar and a black necker scarf somewhat like a sailor's. If one looked closely, they would have noticed tiny threads woven into elaborate patterns, circles and squares and sigils, designs too faint to see but nevertheless still present. Over the two of them were worn dark earth-brown cloaks, slightly tattered at the base, that were now serving as blankets. The background hum of the engines continued.  And Sophie Bellisaria dreamt. Verdarell, the forest of the forgotten dragons, had once been the very picture of untouched nature, a pristine place where, even though dangerous, held a sense of primeval beauty. Not any longer. The leaves and trunks around her were dyed in hues of grey, the heat almost a liquid substance. The air, too, was stained with the stench of smouldering trees, the acridity of sulphur, the telltale tang of elemental magics, fire and darkness both, all ill intent.  Sophie held her knife, both weapon and catalyst, aloft like a torch, shining it this way and that. Her minor light spell did not make for much illumination, but truth be told, it was still bright out enough to see, and she might as well not have wasted her magic in the first place.  Growling, she grabbed the trunk of the nearest tree (that was not on fire or similar) in frustration, and climbed up it in a distinctively unladylike and haphazard manner, in all contrast to her upbringing. Finally, she propped herself up onto a branch of sizeable width, and looked up and out. From her slightly elevated position she thought that maybe she could glimpse some clear sky, but she did not: there was only the smog below, and in the distance, multiple columns of smoke rose into the air, fingers of a hand that were trying to grasp salvation.  "How did you get up here?" A voice sounded, and she turned up and to the right to the speaker: a woman in the dull brown and green leather armor of a ranger, her brown hair chopped short in a bob cut, perched in a branch much higher on a neighbouring tree. "I climbed, of course." Sophie replied waspishly. She then immediately exhaled. "Sorry, Calida. Didn't mean to snap at you."  "No worries." The archer's eyes softened for a bit, and a friendly look was shot over at Sophie before they returned sharp, to scan the horizon. "I know you care a lot for the Captain."  To that comment Sophie chose to not respond. "Do you see anything?" she said instead. "Nothing that looks like her so far. But–ah!"  "What? What?" Sophie craned her head.  "It's Lars returning. Probably with a report."  "Tch." Sophie snapped again, before she schooled her features back to a face more pleasant. Applying an Ashenworth Silencer to her feet to cushion the fall, she heaved herself off her seat, and dropped right down in front of the returning warrior. "What the–" Lars made to swing his battleaxe down, before he stopped it. "Goddess' sake, Sophie. Don't surprise me like that."  "Did you find Yuki?" Sophie demanded. The older man shook his head. "No. No sign of her." He collapsed himself against a sturdy tree and removed his helmet, shaking out sweat-drenched dark hair. A gauntleted hand rubbed at the stubble on his chin, while his other hand retrieved a dull-looking crystal from his pocket, dropping it into Sophie's hand. "And your rock's gone dry, as well."  "Tch." Sophie hissed again. "Give me three, no, five minutes, and then we can head deeper in." The warrior let out a long exhale. From his side he took out a leather canteen, took a long sip of water, and then closed his eyes, completely slumped. "That might be not be a good idea." Calida had landed silently to Sophie's side, and was now speaking up. "I spotted a large congregation further in. And–" the archer took a breath. "There's a dragon in there."  "I can fight a dragon." Sophie said immediately. "I don't think you heard me properly the first time." Calida said sternly. "It's a dragon. Not a wyvern. Not a wyrm. Not any old overgrown lizard. A true dragon."  "Sophie's next words are going to be something like 'but isn't that what we came here to fight?', or 'you two can go back if you want, but I'm going in anyway'." From the ground, Lars spoke, his eyes still closed in rest. Sophie held her tongue. Those two phrases had indeed surfaced in her mind, and were in fact promising candidates for what she had been about to say.  "Come now, Lars." Calida prodded him with her foot. "I think Sophie just–"  "Well done, you predicted what I was going to say." Sophie snapped out, a snake spitting acid. Lars' comments had apparently landed a critical hit. "You two can go back if you want, but I'm really going to try and find her anyway, even if it kills me."  She drew a fresh crystal from her pocket, and her knife traced a complicated pattern over it, an enchantment that would react to the magical signature of Yuki Whiterock, Captain of the Guard of one of two heads of the magic cabal, Aurora, the organization that had deployed them in the first place.  It twitched in her open hand, and pointed, as the warrior had said, deeper into the forest. "On second thought," Sophie added, "you two should go back. I don't want to be responsible if all of us get killed–"  Lars' eyes instantly snapped open. "No," he said simply. "I don't know about Mistress Calida here, but I'm not going to let you go off and get killed by your lonesome."  "Same here." Calida spoke up. "And don't call me 'Mistress' ever again." She gave a sharp slap to the amour plating on the warrior's shoulder, and Lars winced.  ~~[e]~~ The sound of whistling air echoed in Sophie's right ear as Calida let fly another arrow, which neatly blasted through the wing of a swooping wyvern. Instead of going down quietly, it screamed defiance, and launched itself towards Sophie in an unsteady but intentful flight.  "Get down!" In a flash Lars was there, his axe buried in the creature, which he then kicked to dislodge. More rustling told the trio that there was still more to come, and another and another. "Lars!" Calida yelled warning, but Sophie was already there, knife in hand.  Fading Edge. The spell came naturally to her mind. Snicker-snack, as it was said, and the wyvern went rearing back.  A magical blade, an ethereal edge too thin to be seen. A concept not at all new, which the daughter of the Bellisarias had recreated only to test her skill.  She'd never thought it would see this much use. She stepped in, under the wyvern's belly, and stabbed twice quickly upward into the wyvern's chin. It fell, but not before– Sophie hissed in pain. The front claws of the wyvern had raked into her left shoulder, ripping through her sleeve and skin, a wound more severe than all the minor scratches she had obtained thus far. Off to the side, Lars had already beheaded the other one.  "Sophie–"  She held up a hand. "I'll be fine." Tracing her knife over the wound, she murmured a minor healing cantrip, and watched the wound be purified and closed. Stepping over to the ranger, who was also not clad in armour, she noted a small gash on her arm, which she also likewise healed. "I'm not going to complain, but…" Calida looked concerned, as a soft pink glow shone. "Are you sure you're not running low?"  "I wasn't put into Ricole's Guard for nothing." Sophie said coldly. "I can keep going."  Calida nodded. "Onwards, then?"  "Onwards."  ~~[e]~~ The main difference between a wyvern and a dragon, of course, were that the front claws of wyverns were tiny, while those of a dragon's were…proportionate. To use an analogy, it would be like a human with no upper arm or forearm, whose wrists were grafted directly to their shoulders. However, the thing currently facing them was neither of those, but a wyrm, which had no wings, but only four full limbs, and crawled along the earth. They also thrashed about like nobody's business, and could spew a variety of fluids, like acid…or magma.  "Prismatic Shield!" Sophie yelled her spell aloud, putting as much spirit as she could muster into it. The molten rock splashed up against the wall of iridescent light, saving Lars from being broiled alive in his armour, a shelled delicacy. It being semisolid, however, meant that Sophie's construct was all but toast, and the enchanter-illusionist collapsed to her knees from the sudden magical drain.  Calida was already there. Her first kukri stab bounced off the wyrm's rocky hide, and only her second, with the hefty aid of wind magic, penetrated.  At last the creature was still, and the ranger slumped over forwards in exhaustion, treating the carcass as a temporary pillow (surprisingly warmer and softer than one would think.) Brushing her soot- and sweat-stained hair away from her eyes, Sophie took in the state of her two companions.  And then she looked back at the pathfinding crystal in her hand, and Yuki's amber-brown eyes surfaced in her mind yet again. The captain's determined look, when she had fought others twice her size. Her observing gaze, as she watched and learned sword techniques. And her expression when she let down her guard, only around Sophie herself, where she had been free to complain, free to express anything more than placid friendliness, and anything less than serious competence. Her fist tightened around the crystal, and Sophie clutched it hard enough where it almost drew blood.  At the next landmark, she thought to herself. At the next landmark, I'll persuade them to go back. She could muster up enough for an illusion, perhaps, if she needed it.  Because, as much as she wanted, perhaps even needed, the help, she couldn't endanger her comrades.  With a start, Sophie woke. For a few moments she forgot where she was, until reality settled in again. I don't know what I expected. To be home? To be safe? For everything in the past week to have never happened?  No. I…chose to run.  Yuki's sleeping face was right above hers. That's not quite right.  I just didn't want to let her go alone. Slowly, making no sudden movements, she raised her head, before slapping her cheeks– –before slapping her cheeks quietly. The other person present was still sound asleep, after all. Did I…fall asleep on her lap? I don't remember that.  Ignoring the flutter in her heart, she made to shift to Yuki's side, to catch the other girl's head on her shoulder as she tilted sideways, but it was too late–the swordswoman had already been startled awake.  "Sleep well?" Sophie asked. Yuki took in everything at a glance–the dark hold, her companion's tired smile. "I'm fine." Another look around. "How long until we reach…where are we going, anyway?"  "I don't know," Sophie admitted freely. The ship was a small, a fast freighter that had taken a special detour in order to resupply the Cabal, and she had been too tired to conceal herself and sneak into the captain's room to peek at the ship's logs. "But I think once we land, we should try to find our way to Santa Soara, and then from there make our back back to Elizabeth Island."  Yuki nodded. The floating city of Santa Soara was said to be the centre of the world. It was a good place to go if you needed to, well, go anywhere else.  (Of course, no sane shipping company would run regular routes anywhere near the forest filled with ancient dragons, so getting there directly would be difficult.)  "But Elizabeth Island…" Yuki continued uncertainly.  "My hometown." Sophie said reassuringly. "There's magical facilities there. My brother will welcome you. We can treat you there, or at least try to. And I know for certain I won't dissect you in the name of magical research."  The brown-blue haired girl nodded. "I'm glad. I don't want anyone else looking at my body." "Captain!" Sophie's head snapped upwards to look Yuki in the eye, scandalized. It took a few moments, but the swordswoman eventually blushed. "O-Oh. I mean, well, um, not that it, um…" "Gods forbid." Sophie shook her head, trying to regain her senses. She still hadn't gotten used to the fact that Yuki was actually, well, not as put together in private as in public. But I suppose this is a blessing in itself, that it is a sight only for me. "It's fine," she said out loud. "I know what you mean. And I…" A loud boom sounded from above, saving her from having to continue the conversation. The ship shook, and the crystal torches began to rattle in their brackets.  An attack? Sophie thought. No, of course it's an attack. How could I have forgotten where we were? "Yu–" "I know. I'm going up there to help." Yuki was already standing, her hand wrapped around her sword's sheathe.  "The pilot's going to have a heart attack." Sophie shook her head, but got to her feet likewise. After all, they had snuck on board with the help of her own magic, illusion and unlocking both. "And you're lacking your usual armour."  The swordswoman's hand reached up to her chestplate. "But…" Sophie took in a breath, then exhaled it, focusing her mind. She then moved her hand over Yuki's own, and in fact passed it all around the swordswoman, with something resembling a scanning motion. Then, she smiled. "Abbreviated magic armour. Now, let's go."  Her smile was met with Yuki's own. "Yes. Let's."  If it was up to me, I'd rather just stay here and hide until it boils over. But if this boat crashes, we're not going to make it out, either. The pink-haired enchanter kept her thoughts to herself.  ~~[e]~~ "Jenkins!" the pilot shouted. He was a middle-aged man, his paunch slight and his beard scruffy and brown. "Get to the wheel and keep us going! I'll drive them off!"  "But sir–" "For the Goddess' sake, just do what I say!" Circling the airship now was a flock of wyverns, and large crossbow in his hands was of little reassurance despite its hefty weight.  From behind him, there was the sound of something swooping down, then a muffled scream. "Jenkins!" He tilted his head back, but he couldn't see his cabin boy. Gritting his teeth, he fired.  Twenty-five centimetres of metal shot forth, but clipped only dark-brown hide. Then, there was an answering screech, and faster than he could react, wings and jaw borne down on him– –before pale blue light suffused his vision, and the wyvern was split (that was, nearly split) into two lengthwise, a vicious line running down its underside from the tip of its blunt snout. The flock turned and stared at something behind him, and then descended.  "I guess there's no time to sheathe and unsheathe for this!" A brown-haired swordswoman surged forwards, leaving a trail of frost on the wooden floorboards. A hand shifted from sheathe to hilt, turning the grip two-handed, and the sword traced a cut from right to left, finishing off the previously nearly bisected wyvern.  More screeches filled the air.  "Grab your cabin boy and move belowdecks. We'll take care of this." A quiet voice sounded from directly beside his ear, and he started. "And duck! Barrier!"  The pilot ducked down low, and heard a muffled thump as another wyvern collided with the gray magical screen that formed above him. As he scrambled out of the way, a blur moved past him, and suddenly, a translucent blade of shimmering air had stabbed upwards, right through the wyvern's skull.  The flying lizards relied on smell as well as sight, but, as Sophie knew from personal experience, having something they smelled but could not really see confused them.  Optical Camouflage. Her personal favourite, and her pet spell ever since childhood. An indisputable friend to young ladies who wanted to sneak out of the family home.  Closer to the airship's stern, frost was forming on the ground. Every competent swordsman knew to reinforce their strikes with magic, and Yuki's was bleeding over. A low-to-high sweep unleashed a Frost Barrage, sending spikes of ice erupting upwards from the floor, impaling one of the flock and trapping another. With a single leap forward, Yuki moved to behead her trapped prey– –but yet another descended from her left, and the swordswoman's body moved on instinct, slashing out…with her left hand.  Magic tore three gashes in the air, and three gashes across the wyvern's wings and upper body, and then a single reinforced thrust buried Yuki's sword in the wyvern's throat.  One more slash finished off the wyvern's previously trapped fellow, and then, quite suddenly, there was silence. Yuki hesitantly glanced around, then looked at her bandaged left forearm. She then looked down at the wyvern's corpse, where a claw had torn into the reptilian flesh.  Don't tell me… "Yuki! Are you alright?" Sophie's voice called out from across the deck. "I'm fine." The guard captain, well, former captain, decided to keep her thoughts to herself for now. She walked over to the front, where her partner was now kneeling on the ground beside a softly moaning cabin boy.  The pilot's expression was grim below his dark aviator's hat. "Can ya save him? Only, the flight was supposed to be done by me alone, but seeing as it's dangerous territory, the Company forced me to–"  "Shut up." Sophie's acerbic reply cowed the middle-aged man into silence. She began to trace signs over the boy's torn chest in diagnosis. Seeing the pilot's worry, Yuki approached him. "Sorry about that," she said. "She's not exactly friendly with strangers."  "The type to get the job done first, huh? I've seen plenty of those." The pilot gave a sigh. He looked back down, where the soft light of healing magic was beginning to glow. "I would ask what you're doing on this ship, but seeing as the both of ya saved our lives, I think it would be dishonorable to pry." He glanced back at Yuki. "I hope you're not expecting me to be your personal taxi."  "No, just until your scheduled stop is fine." Yuki replied with practiced politeness.  "Still, wouldn't you tell me your names? It would be a good story for the kids."  Before Yuki could respond, Sophie had gotten back to her feet. "He'll live. Everything just looks more serious than it is."  I guess that's why Ricole never had a dedicated healer, the swordswoman thought to herself. If anything could ever injure her more than this, we were going to be…in deep trouble, either way.  The pink-haired enchanter gave a short bow. "Apologies for my rudeness earlier." "It's fine. I wouldn't have known what to tell Jenkins' old man if anything had happened to him." The pilot looked from girl to girl. "I'm Abe Dawson, pilot for Starligarde Transportation. And you young ladies would be…?" "I'm Sophie, and this is Yuki." Sophie's tone did not invite further questioning, and Yuki noticed that her companion's eyes seemed to have narrowed at the mention of the company's name. "Sorry for hitching a ride just like this." "It's fine, it's fine." The pilot waved a hand. "I've seen stranger things in heaven and earth." He looked out at the sky, which was now passing by at a fraction of the usual cruising speed, then back to the two girls. "How about ya both take a rest, and I'll come get you when we're closer to landing?"  Before Yuki could open her mouth, Sophie responded. "That would be much appreciated." With another short bow, the daughter of the Bellisarias tugged at her companion's wrist, pulling her along. "Oh, and where's the pilot's quarters? I put your cabin boy to sleep. He needs some rest."  "I'll show you the way."  ~~[e]~~ "Why did you agree to taking a rest? Isn't there a chance that the pilot would just call the guards on us once we land?" The ex-captain whispered, once they were alone again. The two of them were now abovedecks, watching clouds drift past, and the swordswoman's blue-brown hair was now untied and flowing gently in the breeze. "Yes," Sophie said. "But it's easier to agree first and then go ahead and do our own thing anyway." She had a small smile on her face that was only faintly smug. "Trust me on this."  "All right." Yuki looked out at the horizon. The skies were calm, and after that incident, it had been smooth sailing. "Do you think we'll be fine?"  "You're a survivor. And I'm cunning and underhanded," the rose-haired girl said without a trace of shame. "We'll be fine."  Yuki simply broke out into a smile of her own. You're not as mean or underhanded as you think, Sophie. But I think…if you're here, everything will be all right.  ~~[e]~~ And after the ship had landed in a sleepy village on the outskirts of Verdarell and then taken off again, now freed of both cargo and stowaways, the pilot Abe Dawson left the routine steering to his cabin boy, Jenkins, and went to tidy his cargo hold. It was there where he found a torn poster of cheap paper.  He was not a stupid man, and was an aviator of considerable experience.  (They would not have sent an incompetent to fly over the forest of forgotten dragons.) More than that, he knew about and respected the magic cabal, Aurora. The peacekeepers of the world, it was said, headed by twins of gold and silver, who fought off disasters and calamities, and made sure the unknown was safe.  It was why he had chosen to fly out to resupply their front lines. It was a mission he had undertaken several times now, ever since the cabal had begun their campaign. Requesting the capture of Yuki Whiterock and her companion, Sophie Bellisaria.  Two young members, fleeing from the unknown, into the unknown.  And his life had been saved by a strange twist of fate. With a large hand, he crumpled the poster into a ball, and tossed it out into the blue sky.

A teenage boy sat on the floor a sword through his chest another teenage boy beside him, his hands on the sword while blood spewed out of the injury in his stomach. At a corner was a teenage girl buried in some rubbles. Another young girl lay on the floor at another end of the cave, blood flowed down the side of her mouth. While at a corner sat a teenage boy with glasses. His head rested against the cave walls and blood coming out of his nose and mouth. The cave was quiet and only the gasping of the teen with the sword through him could be heard. He struggled to keep his eyes open as he looked around at all the bodies around him. HIS POV I could see the people I once called friends all around me. My best friend laid beside me dead. I stretched out my fingers with the little strength I had in me. My hands quivered as I reached out to touch my friend's head. My hands finally touched it, my fingers on his hair. I remembered those days when I was still with them, my life was a whole lot better back then. We had known each other for a long time. We were once from the same village, well except for John, who always wore this weird glasses. Once our villages were destroyed we decided to travel around the country. We became heroes by saving other villages that almost suffered the same fates as ours. We'd travelled to so many places, and we got into trouble with the boss of all the destruction, he manage to catch me. I spent months there, I was tortured by them. And at the end when my friends came to save me I was no longer the person they knew. I decided to remain there with the boss, going on all the tasks he sent me just to gain his trust. I killed civilians, and with his orders I used his army to take over places. I did all that to gain the boss' trust so I could get closer to him. My aim was to kill him. I met my friends quite a lot when I was doing all these, they tried to convince me to stop but I didn't. I didn't 'cause I knew it could end all these, 'cause I thought I could end everything with the death of their leader. I killed so much people, and always tried to keep myself going with the thought that 'it'd all be worth it when they're leader was dead.' At the end, I killed their leader, took over his soldiers and sent them back to the demon world. My friends came just a while later wanting to kill me. I was willing to die considering all my crimes, but just at the moment they came towards me, I don't know why but I ended up fighting them. I wasn't in my right mind at that time and only knew to attack. My best friend attacked me at the last moment and impaled me with his sword after I'd previously injured him. He collapsed beside me on the ground and I regained my senses. At this moment when I remember my past all those emotions I've sealed deep within finally burst out. I couldn't help but cry, my tears rolling down my face. I was at the brink of death and now I regret everything I've done. I wished my friends could come back to life and our village wasn't destroyed. I wished everything could return to normal. Right now I couldn't do anything, I couldn't change anything, I could only wait for death. Just at the moment of my death I heard footsteps in the cave. And finally my eyes closed, my breathing stopped and I couldn't hear anything again.

Chapter 1 [Oneshot] -- “Papa! Papa! Tell me the story of how you married mom again!” A little girl asked with sparkling eyes as she sat on her father’s lap. Ludwig smiled, petting his daughter’s pink hair as he told the story he told a hundred times, his golden-blue eyes turning warm and reminiscent. Ludwig and Lucy were a strange pairing, at a first glance, no one would have dreamed they were lovers, their status only amplified this impression. Ludwig used to think the same, however, overtime, Lucy grew on him, especially on the night where she confessed at the cherry tree they used to play at when they were just little kids, he promised to marry her on that same night. However, it was easier said than done. For one, their parents would never allow it. And two, Lucy already had a fiancé. But as always, love preserved. On the day of her wedding, Ludwig took her away and ran into the forest, abandoning the home they grew up in, and starting their life anew. When Ludwig finished the story, his daughter looked at him with dazed flurried expression, she asked, rather uncharacteristically, “Were there any consequences?” “Were there any consequences?” Ludwig repeated his daughter’s question, his eyes slowly falling towards her long, long, long triangular chin. Awkwardly, he smiled, “Just a few.”

A pen hand and a sword in the another. Across from, the man stood a god, stood an existence unquestionable by common knowledge. This man had done nothing to be where he stands now, he simply woke up there. The man was filled with utter confusion having no understanding of what was going on. He believed this all to be a dream to where in a few moments his brain would bring out of this place, to a world filled with endless beauties. Looking at the sword he finds it to be an immaculate piece of metal if it was metal at all. The blade was a ruby red the reflected the lights from all around him. It was unquestionably sharp with a flawless golden design along its face. Looking at its hilt was an elegant white feeling like silk in his grasp. There was no guard and with its light feel the man assumed it to be used for quick and fatal strikes. "Exalted Crimson Terror…" The man naturally knew the name of the blade having been the creator of its existence. It was a piece of fiction he used for his books as the only sword created by the blacksmith of legend. The blacksmith had searched for many nights and days on a mission that was over the course of forty-seven years. After its creation, he ultimately took his life with the blade. The blade was from then on believed to be cursed, by the gods having been a creation that went against them. In the end, it was opposite the blade was made possible by the gods as they had given the blacksmith the materials for its creation. The cost was the man's own life. That was the legend of the blacksmith, Bob. Breaking his vision away from the blade he looked into his other hand to find none other than a pen. It had a pure white body with a green tip before showing the point of itself… so it was a common everyday pen. No there was no special story to this pen it been the equivalent of the ones you could pick up off the street any day. "Make a choice, the pen or the sword?" The god asked their voice echoing around the space. The voice was extremely feminine but also held undeniable power and arrogance. This had made the more confused than when he first appeared here. The area completely in front of him was completely dark only allowing him to see the silhouette of the god in front of him. This had been caused by the lights being far too bright behind them making it hard to make them out. Shaking his head, he clears his thoughts. The sword was the sword of legend something he specifically created for killing and destruction. A sword surrounded by mystery and unfulfilled dreams. It hid in the shadows of the night waiting for the exact moment to strong and when it did the quickness wouldn't give people time to react. In the other hand was a common pen! So how was this at all a question? Yet here he stood thinking this over time and time again. A killing sword flawless in every way… but a common pen! He couldn't make himself believe that was no trick to any of this. Thinking through everything, he sits down. Putting them both down in front of him he puts his hand up to his chin in thought. He wasn't even tossing a glance at the sword his mind fully trying to understand the pen. Most people would just say that they would take the sword, it was a no-brainer. In most cases, this man would agree with them, but something was strange to him here. It was all too easy, nothing was ever this easy when it came to his dreams. "Aster you don't have to think this hard…" The god replied completely in wonder on what was going on. "Ahhhhhh!" Aster screamed his body following backward his hands roughly gripping his silver hair. Seeing this the god was at a loss on either to laugh or cry. This wasn't meant to be hard, an all-powerful sword or a fucking pen! How can someone be so brain dead to where they don't make the normal choice? Throwing himself back into a sit-up position Aster finally replied, "I chose the pen!" His voice was extremely confident and he even had a smug look on his face. The god was at a complete and utter loss of what to do at this moment. This man is truly brain dead. He chooses a pen…a pen over an all-powerful sword. There was likely not a second person in the entire universe that would make that same choice. She would even as far as to say in the all the universes. As Aster made his decision the sword vanished from laid only leaving the pen behind. Not hearing any sort of reply yet Aster gloats, "There is no need to be in such awe of my brilliance. You can just let it out. I know I'm amazing." "…Are you serious?" She was a complete loss of words for how to continue this. He was supposed to choose the sword and then she would send him away with that as his side. "Of course!" Aster still had that smug smile covering his face. He really felt extremely confident with himself for looking past the appearance of the pen and making the choice for it anyway. "How stupid can one person be!" The god exclaimed in anger, Hearing the reply be totally different from how he expected Aster lost the smug smile as he only followed with a "Huh?" "You choose a common pen over Exalted Crimson Terror the sword considered the most elegant craftsmanship ever done by man. Yet you choose a pen! How? How!" She was fuming, this wasn't how it was meant to go. Everything seemed to click at this moment for Aster as he started to panic, "Wait you mean this really is a common pen?" "YES! You chose that pen over the sword of legend you spend many days dreaming up!" The God answered, Reacting on the instant he holds the pen out to the god his hung low and on his knees pleading, "Take it back. Take it back. Let me choose the sword. I made a mistake." Shaking her head, she explains, "I can't do that. You had the choice for the pen and can't change for the sword now! You will have to live with it. How can you be so dumb?" "Just let me pick something, anything, anything besides this common pen!" He didn't change position still begging. Going into thought she begins to think of if there is any way she can help him in this. This had never happened before. Everyone usually chose the weapon of their dreams over the pen. Looking through her memories she tries to see what she could do. Aster stayed there not making any moves for what felt like hours. After what felt like a day Aster fell to the side his legs having given out. What felt like a day was truly only fifteen minutes. Noticing this the god was once again at a loss on how to handle this. Why was this man out of people chosen to move worlds, what was so special about this man? Well except for his stupidity, absolutely no endurance, completely average looking, and having sat around creating sleeping most of the time. Just how was this man so important? Somehow ignoring she remembers an old rule around the choices. It hadn't been implemented since its creation but there is always a first time for everything. Reading it over once the god was left in a shock. 'Are you serious?' Coughing into her hand she gets Asters attention. He immediately reacts getting back into the kneeling position once more, "Because of your choice you get to… Choose the weapon you bring with you!" This rule had left the god at an impasse of whether to laugh or cry. 'So, stupidity pays off? The others are probably laughing at this moment!' Seemingly forgetting everything that had transpired before this moment Aster was back to his smug self, "See the pen is truly mightier than the sword!" He even began to laugh after this all. "Just make your choice…" The god didn't want to be around this man anymore in fear of losing brain cells. Aster doesn't act hasty trying to think what would be the best weapon. Thinking through all the chapters he had written for his story he remembers a very special item. The most powerful weapon he ever thought up. It could crush gods, slay demons, destroy the world but somehow create houses. He remembers a commenter who had stated that a house made completely out of these could equal Chuck Norris. This statement alone proved this weapon's power. He questioned if such power should exist though. Then remembering that this was all a dream he asks for the most powerful weapon he ever created. "I choose 'The unequaled son of heaven, the sealer of demons, the weapon lost in space, and the object that traveled dimension'!" Her sweatdropped at the name but didn't dare question any of this. She was curious about what he had asked for. She had to admit that it did sound powerful and all mighty. In the place of the pen in Aster's hands, a new object appeared. It wasn't a sword or gun, nor was it a lance or any common any day weapon. Seeing it the God was completely flabbergasted losing her patience she shouts, "Out of everything? Why the hell that!" Visibly hurt by her statement he holds the object close to his chest, "How dare you! This is the most powerful object ever created for my story. Exalted Crimson Terror in comparison is mud. For this is the Dao of the Brick!" Completely done with this man she sends him to the world he was ordered into. The object he had chosen to take him was… a brick. Yep, you read right, he chose a brick… "I need a raise…" She comments after seeing him gone.

Chris opens his eyes, his vision is blurry, he can hear distorted noises. He can feel something wet between his legs, did he just pee? The more his senses fall in place, the more he realises something is wrong? His hands and legs all feel weird. He can barely see, he can make out some people around him "Who are these people." he wonders. He wants to ask them, but nothing comes out, it's as if he cannot speak. The people around him keep touching him. Their voices are distorted and not clear. This is just too much weird to take. He tries to recollect what did he do before waking up, but he just can't seem to remember. He suddenly realised he didn't have any teeth. Huh? Is he wrapped in something he can't move? "Release me." he wanted to say. They touched him there, why are they touching me there, did they realise I peed. Oh, they are removing the cloth, I can be free. What is this small hand in front of me? He gasped, realising it was his own hand. It was a baby's hands. It all just rushed over him. No No No...why am I, a baby? At this thought, he just couldn't stop himself from crying like a baby, funnily enough, he was now really a baby. —- It's been three years since Chris was born in this world and with time he started to get a better understanding of this new world, along with its language and how magic played an important part in life. He still could not remember his past life. He would often get strange dreams which he could not recall after waking up. The only thing somehow he remembered was that his name was Chris. Belonging to a wealthy family, there were always servants around to take care of him. His favorite was his butler named Roger, he came from a line of family butlers who had served his family for generations. Roger was mediumly built with receding hair, he always wore the same black suit and was always around him. His Father's name was William and his Mother's, Sarah. William was mostly not around. Occasionally visiting, showering him with a lot of gifts and love. He will always speak of how great a family he comes from. Chris got to know that his father's Dreux family was not some minor family. They boasted of a very proud lineage. He was a class two level mage and was part of a very few class two level mages in the kingdom. All mages started at level five, with years of mastery and achievement they could move to higher levels. Most of them even after years could only reach up to level three. William had not only surpassed this and reached level two but he did so at a very young age. He was considered a genius that comes rarely in a generation. At the top, stood level One who were referred to as Archmages, just having strong mastery over magic wasn't enough to reach this stage, they also needed strong support from the noble families that rule over the continent. William was in the pursuit of reaching this level and becoming an Archmage himself. What made William and The Dreux family even more powerful was their affinity to unique magic, only a few in the kingdom had unique magic. This uniqueness to the family was passed on by someone at the pinnacle of magic, a level far above level one, they were called "Infinity" level class mages, named as there was no way of knowing what limits their power held. They were a calamity in walking, who could go on par with Dragons and Devils the most powerful race in the continent. The founder of the Dreux family was an "Infinity" mage, whose unique magic passed on through generations. Even after centuries, the family is still considered in such high regard due to the "Infinity" mage. Such was their existence. Though for centuries no "Infinity" level mage has emerged. Their emergence could tip the balance of the world. —- Chris will not be Chris anymore, he was about to get a new name. He was now four years old and his naming ritual was arriving soon. In the past four years, he became even more familiar with the big mansion and the people living under it. Still, there was no recollection of his past memory. Roger was always around teaching him the ways of the world, the etiquettes of being part of a noble family. Though he found it boring to go through all of them, he liked the time spent with Roger. Chris would often ask Roger about his family, he would just shrug it off by saying "I only serve Young Master and the Dreux family". Though once Chris overheard his parents talking about Roger, how Roger's families' origin came from his mother's clan. Which made him wonder "How did Roger's family serve the Dreux family for so long?" Chris's mother Sarah belonged to the Draconet Clan and had an affinity to the earth element, she was at level two herself. Sarah's clan speaks of a lineage descending from the dragons but nothing to prove of it than scale-like markings and the skull of a True dragon they keep at their clan village. Her clan boasted of better physical strength and strong martial arts. Though it is believed that their clan's true Strength diminished with the disappearance of the Dragons centuries ago and along with them the gifts they carried. The naming ceremony was drawing close and with it, the truth of which affinity he will have.

The sensation of falling clutches at my heart as my eyes quickly snap open, only to see an unfamiliar stone ceiling. And although there was no light in the room, I could still see well as if it were morning. The cries of babies could be heard coming from all around me, and the smell of blood permeates the air. Along with the scent of blood is a disgusting musky ammonia smell. I could also feel a slightly sticky and slimy substance covering my body. Ugh… what is this? Raising up my arm, what came into view is a small palm with short chubby baby fingers. Covering my entire arm, and probably my whole body is a thin layer of red and white translucent liquid. This is... blood and... I could instantly tell what it is with the smell coming off it and my stomach churned. And speaking of stomach, an umbilical cord still connects me to a woman chained to the stone wall. She has her head down and is in a kneeling position with bodily fluids forming a puddle beneath her. Upon closer inspection, I could easily tell that she is an elf. Most evident are her pointy ears extending past her messy blue hair. She is completely naked, only being partially covered thanks to her long hair. A devil winged heart tattoo glowing on her crotch. I stare at her for a while, then she weakly opens her eyes to stare back at me. Her violet eyes decorated with long blue eyelashes looked tired and lifeless. Despite this, she is still an unparalleled beauty with a well-endowed body. "..." Her lips moved but no sound came out. At the same time, a stream of tears rolled down her flushed cheeks. The sound of metal clacking draws my attention away from studying her facial expression further. I turn my head and see the steel bar door to the cell open. An old man enters and picks me up. With a simple swipe of his hand, the umbilical cord connecting me and the elf is severed. He examines me for a second then smirks. "Ah, the Mistress will be pleased." Without saying another word, he walks out of the cell with me in hand. The door is closed and locked by someone with a mask over their face. It had no eye hole and their mouth is sealed by a gag ball. For a while after that, all I could see is the stone ceiling with how the old man was holding me. We definitely passed by many other cells like the one I was in since I could hear the wailing of babies and mothers as we pass by. And then we arrive at some stairs leading up. The door at the end of the stairs is well decorated and leads to a different hallway. Lighting the halls are beautiful crystal chandeliers equidistant from each other. On one side of the wall are giant windows showing a dark reddish-purple and starless sky. The other is lined with realistic statues of men and women in seductive and alluring poses. They were all either naked or lightly clothed with many bearing a pair of horns and tail. Every so often there would be a door with intricate carvings on them. What they lead to or what is on the other side I don't know. The old man has been walking for a few minutes now and I still don't know where we were heading but along the way, I finally see more people. Whether man or woman, they had on the same mask I saw earlier. Men had nothing on aside from their underway that can barely hide their members, if at all, and some ropes or chains in bondage. Women are practically the same, naked, except for a miniskirt that doesn't hide anything either. On their necks were chokers and piercings galore. Even men had their nipples pierced and crotch tattoos are on everyone. Is the old man the only one with normal clothing!? Even the ones holding weapons and look like guards are all dressed the same. Just as I had this thought, we finally came to a stop in front of two giant double doors. They were even more beautiful and have a more intricate design then the others I've seen so far but still have the same style. "Mistress Lust." The old man knocks twice on the door, but instead of an answer, there were only muffled groans and seductive moans. After waiting for just a few seconds, the old man opens the door and the overwhelming smell of sex rushes out. A woman is sitting reverse cowgirl on a man with the previously mention mask on, and her face glued to the crotch of another man. The woman moved her eyes away from what she was doing for only a second to look at the old man and me, then went back with even more vigor. Instead of stopping, they seem to only be getting even more intense as if excited to be watched. "Pardon me, Mistress. It seems to have been a great success." Still, no reply as they all continue to speed up. The only sound in the room was the repetitive sound of wet meat slapping against one another and slurping. Then finally came the great climax. The standing man slumped onto the ground as his shaking legs could support him no longer. The woman's mouths never letting go of either member followed his descent even as she herself came. They stayed in that position for a while just twitching occasionally. "Gulp... gulp... Ahhn~ Borus. You came~ at the perfect time, hehe, I was just about done." Standing up, the product of their lovemaking leaked out of her. Still, as if it wasn't a matter to her at all she grabbed her clothes strewn about the ground and got dressed. Well, if what she is wearing can even be considered clothes. They are more like glorified lingerie. "It was my pleasure to have witnessed it, Mistress. Here, the girl."  Kneeling down onto one knee, the old man had me in his hands as he raised me towards his Mistress while bowing down his head. Girl... Hmm, why does that make me feel weird? "Oh. Oh! So one finally succeeded. I'm so happy~~ And she is mostly humanoid, even better." Quickly taking a glance at me, a smile instantly formed on her face. She then took me from the old man and brought me up to her face.  I finally get a good look at her and I'm both impressed and scared. She looks just as beautiful if not more than the elf earlier, but more so in a cute way. A cute and innocent looking face but an animal in bed. Her long wavy hair is pitch-black on one side and rose pink on the other. Her dark eyelashes complimenting her round raspberry pink eyes. Yet as alluring as she is, I can't help but feel chills run down my spine. "Mmm. Now tell me, what is your [Name]?" How am I supposed to answer when I can't even ta- Ah, no! Don't you dare kiss me with that mouth after what you just diiid!!! After giving me a kiss to the forehead, even as I unsuccessfully try to avoid it, I felt an immense amount of energy flow into me. A bright light completely engulfs my body, and I could feel myself growing at an incredible speed. It made my body feel warm and ecstatic but just as soon as it started, it stopped and I could open my eyes again. I looked at my arm, and it's evident that I've grown. There was little to no baby fat left on my body, in fact, there is a new fat making two little mounds on my chest. My hair is also long enough now that I can feel it touching my lower back and covering my face. It's black in color with streaks of blue. "I'm Rica." My mouth moved before I could even think and I can see her smile get larger. "Hello Rica, I'm Esta C. Lust and you can call me big sis~ Yay~~ Also I'll make sure you become the next Demon King. Isn't that great? Oh. Oh, and if you ever... and I mean ever, call me mother or auntie I'll have to punish you~" "!" An even stronger chill ran down my spine as I see her sclera turn black making her raspberry pink eyes glow. At the same time, she disappeared behind me and gave my cheeks a lick. A mysterious pressure pushes down on me as if gravity suddenly increased. "O-of course big sis~" "Oh, right you'll have to pass the Demon King Trial first to qualify as a candidate so let's start your training right away! Don't die okay?" "Wait what?" Without even having time to fully process what she just said, she puts a choker on my neck and clothes instantly appear to cover my body. A set of rather suggestive panties and bra underneath a long sleeve crop top with cutout mesh insert and a rather short short. Finally, a knee-length boot to top it off. Of course, it'll mostly be black... At least they are more appropriate than what everyone else I've seen is wearing... well, the butler aside. "Cute~~ Borus~ Take good care of her alright?" "Of course Mistress. Please allow me Young Miss." After bowing, Borus extends a hand towards me, like a gentleman would in those cheesy romance movies. I stood there stumped at what to do in response to his sudden change in behavior towards me. After not sensing any sort of malice or chills as I would with Esta, I eventually take his hand. The double doors slowly closing itself as we leave and I notice something different. Magic of some sort envelopes everything except for the area immediately around Borus. It gives me a queasy feeling so I decided to let him lead me again.

Marai arrived to class a few minutes later than usual, much to her dismay, and already had to witness the insanity of her class. Today, the boys were doing yet another little something that would likely include the teacher getting hit in the crossfire and a real load of detention to all of the morons. Mirai wouldn't have any pity for them, it was only a matter of time. As such, Mirai decided to be safe and sit on the windowsill of the hallway, the sliding doors to class 10B and 10C sliding open as two Boys slid out, one from each door and faced off in the hallway. Their hands flying in odd shapes, their friends throwing oddly drawn papers on the ground as the boys finished the handshapes and slammed their palms on the papers as they screamed "Summoning Jutsu!" Mirai wanted to facepalm as a few boys joined the fray, jumping and sliding of of the doors standing behind their "summoners", green paper cut outs thrown out along them and not a moment after their shoes stopped sliding, paper shurikens were thrown at the opposing side. Konar from 1B and a blonde, hopping onto the wide windowsill to run with a broom in hand. The female student already saw the disaster coming, leaning back with all the grace and practice of someone who grew up with these morons since kindergarten, avoiding the boy, near man running in front of her and twirling the broom around like it was a viable weapon while throwing it at the group of boys. What did it say about the class that the boys playing all dodged with serious looks while Anna, who was just arriving, casually leaned to the side and slid in door 10B, hand stretched out to catch the broom mid flight and fling it back at Konar, only to be caught by the opposing side, Narou gripping the red broom handle with unholy glee. Mirai leaned back a bit and out of the window, stabilizing herself on the window frame and glance at the big clock displaying the time: 9:50. She hopped off the windowsill and stood straight, hands folded over her legs as she saw a figure strolling down the hall, dodging to the side and away from Narou with all the practised ease of someone who had done the broom-is-spinny-weapon dance one too many times.. Suffice to say, as the broom flew once more, this time crashing into someones face with a resounding crack, she wasn't surprised, casually walking to 10C's door and throwing her bag under her table with odd accuracy and a blase attitude to the whole situation. Her classmate and seat-desk casually hung her bag on the rack under the table while quietly revising a book, a green paper stuck in her hair. "DETENTION ALL OF YOU!" Their new substitute teacher had arrived, he was quite new, not even broken in yet, and already with a throbbing, likely broken, nose. Narou screamed " Amenotejikara!" Before throwing a handful of green paper at their teachers face, gunning it for the window, Mirai smirked, looking as their teacher was too preoccupied grabbing the boys next to him by the shirt to notice her spin around and- Narou flew out the window with added force, the window being placed on the ground floor, landing with a loud thump as Mirai angelically lowered her foot and returned to her former position, sweetly calling. "Sensei? May I ask to borrow the broom from Class 9A? Maybe we can fix the broom during handywork class too?" She asked evenly, her teacher looking at her like she was his saviour. "Mirai, you're the balm of my soul, you are excused." He said, before rounding back on the boys. Mirai smirked down the window as her childhood friend writhed in the bush, grinning maniacally down at him before leaving with a bounce in her step.

Awake Lindon, it is time, a voice whispered. Yes, thank you for waking me. I thought back, rubbing the sleep from my eyes.  I sat up at the end of the bed, and stood, mentally preparing  myself for the day ahead. I then swapped the clothes I slept in for a brown shirt, pants, and some leather boots that went halfway up my shin.  Walking out of my room, I saw my sister, Dahlia, at the table. “Good morning Dahlia,” I muttered, still not fully conscious.  “Morning to you too, Lin. Going out to meet up with your friend Haywood?” “Yes.” “See ya, have fun!” “Thanks.” I leave, snow crunching under my feet, as I hear the voice whisper, Why do you  waste so much time with her? I do not find it to be a waste, she is a loyal family member and I wish  to keep it that way. Whatever you wish, though I think it’s completely pointless. I wish you could keep those thoughts to yourself. Hah, so do I buddy, so do I. Throughout the glowing white path between the houses people greeted me. As I wandered around, I found Haywood Thackere sprinting at me waving his hands. “Hey! Lindon! How are you? I haven’t seen you in days!” Haywood shouted. “Hello Thackere, I’m in perfect health, and you saw me yesterday,” I calmly answered. “Always the serious tone dude! Will you ever tell me why you're so serious?” “I have voices in my head.” “Sure, whatever you say, I’ll just wait ‘till you tell me the truth! Anyways, ready to go?” “Yes.” “Well then let's get going!”   As we reached the forest, the trees covered in snow, Haywood shouted, “Here we are!” “If you shout, then our goal will be more difficult.” “Sorry!” “Silence.” As we walked, we saw a beast four feet tall with a wolflike head and the horns of a triceratops, the body of a panther and the tail of a scorpion. It sniffed the air, noticing a rabbit with the legs of a cheetah. The beast pounced on the rabbit, swiftly tearing out its throat with its powerful jaws. Oooh a big one! “Nacnor. Give me my bow.” Haywood was about to reply when I put my hand on Haywoods mouth, silencing him. Haywood then handed me the bow along with twelve arrows. I nocked the bow, putting a single arrow on the side of the bow, leaning on my hand. As I pulled it back, I aimed it towards the nacnor. As I loosed the arrow, the animal looked towards me, causing the arrow to slide through its eye, smoothly killing it. “Right through the eye! Good shot buddy!” “Thank you. Let us move on to the next one.” “Awww, you're no fun! Lighten up a little! Enjoy yourself!” “Let us move on to the next one.” “OK buddy, let’s go!”   As we return, we are carrying four nacnor. The townspeople welcome us, already trying to bargain for the hides. We made our way, declining all attempts to buy or trade for the nacnors, until we made our way to the butchers. Entering loudly, on account of our extra weight, we speak to Stanley Monetf, beginning to choose our price. “These are gunna get’cha ‘bout ninety-six bronze for the meat, but I guess I’ll round that up just for you makin’ it one copper. Sound good?” Stanley bargained. “What? Last time we got thirty bronze each nacnor! That would make one copper and twenty bronze! You're ripping us off!” Haywood exclaims. “No, he is being generous.” “What do you mean! He’s paying us less! You can’t really believe he’s right, can you?” “Yes, he is right due to the fact that the market is currently oversaturated with nacnor meat. Being the only reliable source of meat, leading to more hunting and selling them. Therefore, people are not willing to pay as much,” I inform him. “Oh! That makes sense! How much is one worth right now?” “‘Bout twenty bronze,” Stanley interrupted, stating. “Huh! Does that mean that he’s paying us more than he’s supposed to?” Haywood muttered. “No, he’s paying us more because our nacnor is in almost perfect condition. Most hit the body several times before it dies, lowering it’s value. However, ours are in near perfect condition,” I explain. “Well then, you got a deal Stanley!” Haywood shouted. “Just about time you came ‘round. Here’s yer copper, split it how you will. Keep the hide as well, I’ve no need fer it,” the butcher grunted. “What are you going to spend your money on? I’m going to get some dried verbeug!” Haywood inquired as we leave, walking through the frozen streets. “I am going to buy ekbayu to mash and mix with verbeug.” “Let’s go together then!” As we reach the market, Dahlia walks up to us, one eyebrow raised in curiosity and frustration, “where were you? You were supposed to be here about five minutes ago! I thought something happened to you or something and you were dying out in the forest!” “I was forced to explain how money works to Thackere.” I reply. “Hey! I know how money works! It’s just that I didn’t know that the season mattered to the price of things!” Haywood defends. “That's how markets work, ‘Wood. Honestly, how did a buffoon like you manage to befriend my emotionless brother?” Dahlia questions, looking at ‘Wood’.  “I gave Lindon a copper when we first met!” Haywood reports with a proud look. “You shouldn’t be proud of bribery! Who taught you how friendship works?” Dahlia questions with an exasperated look. “Well, my mother told me that money is the most valuable thing, so I figured it would be a reliable way to make friends! But then all my friends stopped liking me when I stopped giving them money! But Lindon didn't, so he’s still my friend!” Haywood shares. “Aww, you poor thing. You’re still stupid, but thats ok.” Dahlia said sympathetically. “His story is false. I informed him that I did not wish to befriend him, and yet he still followed me. So I decided to make use of him by making him help me in my endeavors.” I rebut. “That’s horrible! How could you do that to a friend?” Dahlia inquires, immediately thinking the worst of me. “I simply gave him a use. He was not required to do anything and he still accomplished whatever task I gave him. So I gave him more tasks after confirming his reliability. So I would be most pleased if we could finish purchasing our meals.” I point out, wishing to change the subject. “Yeah! He gave me work and I did it better than anyone else could! So now we’re gonna shop better than ever before!” Declares Haywood.

Jess slammed the door behind us as we entered the house. “I cannot fucking believe this shit!” she shouted. “Hey!” came our mother’s voice from the kitchen. “Language!” “Sorry mum!” my sister said. “But it’s just… They…” she tried to say, but then gave a frustrated scream. She was entirely too angry to be able to properly form words; I’d rarely seen her so upset. Mum came into the living room, wiping her hands on her apron and then placing them on my sister’s shoulders and staring at her in the eyes. “Jessica,” she said. “Remember, what do we do when we’re angry?” “…Deep breaths,” Jess replied. Mum nodded. “Breathe with me. In and out.” She motioned with her hand, up and down, breathing in and out, my sister joining her. After a few repetitions of this exercise, Jess had apparently managed to get her emotions under control. “Now, mind telling me what has made you so upset?” mum asked. Jess sighed, took off her backpack, and produced a sheet of paper from it. “Look at this. Just… Look,” she said, handing it to mum, who took it and began to read aloud. “To all students and parents, it has come to my attention that some of the girls currently enrolled at this school have been taking advantage of the warm spring weather to wear clothes that are entirely inappropriate for a learning environment, as they are distracting for both male students and faculty.” My mum’s eyebrows shot up, and she glanced up at us. We nodded, and she resumed reading. “Therefore, starting next Monday, the following dress code will be put into place: girls are not to wear skirts shorter than knee-length. Any violation will be punished with detention, or any other disciplinary measure I will deem appropriate. Signed, Doctor Lucien Ross, principal.” She paused, staring at the paper, then started reading it again from the top. “I cannot fucking believe this shit,” she said once she was done. “Mum!” I said with mock indignation. “Don’t even start, Andrew, your sister was entirely justified in swearing this time,” she said, pointing a finger at me. “This is some right bullshit, right here. They are distracting for male students and faculty? Oh, just wait.” She marched over to the living room table, where she’d left her cell phone, picked it up, and dialled. “Jen,” she said. “Is Annie back from school yet? So I guess you’ve read the message. Right. Right. Okay, let me make some calls, we’ll get a consensus from all the parents and then call the school. Yeah, I’ll do it. Okay, bye.” She ended the call and then looked up at us. “Don’t worry, kids, and let mum handle it. Now go along and do your homework, dinner’s in three hours,” she said with a smile. Three hours later, at dinner, she was no longer smiling. “That sexist, good-for-nothing, idiotic turd,” she muttered into a forkful of mashed potatoes. “I cannot believe he outright refused to meet with us, or even listen.” “What did he say, exactly?” Jess asked. “I have been named principal by the school board, and I’m a PhD and expert peda… Pedagi…” she began, then stopped. “What was the word again, Frank?” “Pedagogue,” my father replied, reaching for a slice of bread. “Right, that. I’m an expert pedagogue and I know how to provide a healthy and proper learning environment for children, so my decision stands.” She scoffed. “Children. You kids are sixteen and seventeen, you’re almost adults,” she told us. “And besides, what he wrote was clearly out of line. Boys have to learn not let their eyes wander, and teachers should already know how to do it. Telling girls to cover up is nothing but a steaming pile of victim blaming shit.” “Calm down, dear, you’re getting worked up again,” dad said. Mum sighed. “I know, I know, it’s just… I hate this kind of stuff.” “I know you do,” dad soothed her, reaching over and rubbing her hand to comfort her. “At this point the only option we have is to go over his head, directly to the school board, but that will take time.” She sighed again. “I’m sorry, Jess. I guess you won’t be able to wear your new skirt at school on Monday.” “It’s no big deal,” Jess shrugged. “Well no, it is a big deal, but there’s nothing we can do about it right now, is there? We’ll just have to wait and hope the school board overturns it.” “Yeah,” I murmured. “Are you okay, Andrew?” mum asked. “You’re quiet.” “No, no, I’m alright,” I said, snapping back to reality. In truth, I’d been thinking about the whole situation. And I had an idea. After dinner we helped mum and dad tidy up the kitchen, and then my sister and I walked upstairs; instead of heading to my room, however, I followed Jess to hers. She understood, opened the door, motioned me inside, and shut the door behind us. “What’s on your mind?” she asked, smiling and sitting down on the bed. “I’ve been thinking,” I replied. “Have you read the letter carefully? Fully understood what’s written on it?” She frowned at the memory. “Of course. It says students cannot wear skirts shorter than knee-length, along with some sexist and misogynistic bullshit.” I shook my head. “No, that’s not what it says. Here, read it again.” I pulled out my own copy – we were each given one, of course – and handed it to her. She made a face, and refused with a gesture. “I’d rather not. Tell me.” “Well, the relevant part is here,” I said, and read aloud the passage I was referring to. “Girls are not to wear skirts shorter than knee-length.” I looked up at her. “Do you get it? It specifically says girls, boys are apparently allowed to wear whatever they please.” “Okay, that’s one more piece of sexist bullshit for the pile,” Jess replied. “How does that help us?” “Well…” I hesitated, but continued. “I was thinking. If you can’t wear your new skirt at school on Monday… Maybe I can wear it instead?” My sister stared at me in surprise, and then her gaze softened. “Are you sure about this, sis?” she asked. “I thought you didn’t want to give anything away, not until you’re ready to tell mum and dad.” I sighed, and flopped down on the bed beside her. “I know,” I said. “But… This is kind of the perfect chance, isn’t it? I can wear a skirt out of the house, and everyone will think I’m doing it for solidarity. No one will suspect anything, especially if we manage to rope some other boys into it.” Jess smiled and pulled me over to her. “Some boys period, no other about it,” she said, mussing my hair. “You’re not a boy, Andrea.” My sister was the only one who knew my secret. She’d learned about it one day two years prior, when our parents were out and she found me crying in my room because my beard had started growing; at first she had no idea why I was in such despair, but then I opened up to her. “I should’ve been born a girl,” I’d forced out, between sobs. She’d been wonderful about it. Since then she’d allowed me to borrow her clothes, and I’d dressed up every time we were home alone; she helped me shave both my beard and my body hair, taught me how to do make-up, and whenever no one could hear us she referred to me as Andrea and sis. She was a shining ray of light through my dysphoric depression, and she’d even told me she would stand by my side when I was ready to tell our parents. I don’t know what I did to deserve a sibling like her. “You’ve helped me a lot so far, Jess,” I said. “Let me help you in return this time.” She looked at me in the eyes, saw my expression, and nodded. “Alright. How do we do this?” “I’ll send a group chat message to my class,” I said, grabbing my phone. “You can do the same with yours.” She nodded. “As for the others…” I continued. “I don’t know, I don’t really know anyone outside my class.” Jess put a finger to her chin. “Maybe we could ask Viv? She knows lots of people around the school.” “Good idea,” I nodded. Vivian was a member of the student council, and also president of the GSA at our school; if we asked her, spreading the word would be real easy. “Alright. Tomorrow’s Friday, and then we’ll have the weekend to go over the details,” Jess said. “Yes, let’s do that,” I replied, standing up. “Good night, Jess.” She stood up too, and gave me a hug. “Good night, sis. Sleep well.”     On Monday, everything was ready. During the weekend we’d spread the word far and wide, and managed to get a good number of the boys at the school to go along with our plan: that morning, almost two hundred male students would go to school wearing dresses and miniskirts borrowed from friends and relatives. Of course for most of them it was just the skirt, but I’d heard that someone had decided to compliment the look with a blouse, or a feminine t-shirt, or an accessory, to finish the outfit. As for me, I’d pulled out all stops. Helped by my sister Jessica I’d combed my short hair and styled it a bit, fixing it in place with some hairspray, so it had an unmistakeably feminine pixie cut; I’d carefully done my make-up, and she’d even tweezed my eyebrows (they looked much better than they usually did). And I’d borrowed her new skirt, of course. It was black and came down to mid-thigh, much shorter than the new regulations allowed for. I’d finished the look with a purple blouse that was clearly feminine and a pair of sheer black tights. I’d even put on a padded bra, which gave the illusion I had a bit of a chest, and my sister gave me her heeled boots to wear. “You look stunning, sis,” Jess said when we’d completed my look. “You ready to go?” I nodded. “Let’s knock some sense into that idiot.” It was already getting late, and we could spot the school bus out of the window; we rushed downstairs and shouted “Bye mum!” as we ran out the door, getting a “Have a good day, kids!” in return, shouted at us from the kitchen. I gulped as the bus stopped in front of us. Well, here goes nothing. We climbed aboard, and walked to the back, to take our usual spots; Ryan was already there. He was my childhood friend: we were in the same class, and he lived about a half mile down the street from me. He was wearing a red skirt, along with his usual grey t-shirt with MUSIC BAND written on it – a reference to a TV show, apparently. “Morning, Jess!” he greeted my sister. “How are you?” Then he frowned. “Where’s Andy? And who’s the new girl?” he asked. Jess and I looked at each other, then started laughing. “I’m Andi. With an I,” I said, chuckling. “Nice to meet you.” Ryan’s eyes widened. “What the hell? Damn, bro, you look…” “Stunning?” I said. “I’ve been told. And today it’s not bro, it’s sis. Or girl if you prefer.” Ryan stared at me. “Did I miss the memo? It was just a skirt, wasn’t it?” “It was,” I nodded. “But then I thought, why not have some fun with it?” Ryan kept staring for a few moments, then shook his head. “If you say so.” Jess and I sat down as the bus started moving again. “It was really cool of you and Viv to set this whole thing up,” Ryan said. “I never would’ve thought about protesting like this.” I shrugged. “It’s no big deal. Someone has to take a stand sometimes.” “By the way,” he asked, “Are you and Vivian dating?” “Wh-- How--” I sputtered, surprised by the sudden question. “Why would you ask that?” “Well, you know, you seem to be good friends, and managed to coordinate this protest very well. You’re good together,” he replied. I stared at him. “Ryan.” “Andi?” “Viv is the president of the GSA,” I pointed out. It was his turn to shrug. “So?” “…She’s a lesbian.” His eyebrows rose up. “She is?” I let out an exasperated sigh. “I swear, sometimes I wonder if you pay attention to anything at all.” What Ryan had said had some truth in it, though. I’d had the biggest crush on Vivian for like, forever. Ever since the first time I’d laid eyes on her, a few days after starting junior high. But she would never go for someone like me. We kept chatting all the way to the school; mostly we were wondering about what would happen that day. We’d planned to meet up with all our co-conspirators, so that we would march into the school as one, rather than simply trickling in. Therefore, when the bus stopped in the parking lot we quickly got off and made our way to the gathering point. There were already several dozen people there – mostly boys in skirts, milling around awkwardly, clearly not used to the breezy freedom skirts allowed them. A few were wearing tights, but most were bare-legged: I could see some of them had shaved their legs. Vivian had preceded us, and was waiting for us when we arrived; she was wearing trousers, like every other girl I’d seen that morning – word had gotten around about what we’d been planning: we’d advised all girls to avoid making a scene and let the boys take the heat. “Hi, Jess!” she said cheerily. “Where is…” Her gaze turned to me, and her eyes widened, becoming even wider that Ryan’s had. “Andy?” she asked. “With an I,” I smiled. She was momentarily at a loss for words, but then shook herself. “Damn, you look--” “Stunning. She’s been told,” Ryan said. We all turned to look at him. “She?” we said in unison. “Well, I mean,” Ryan said, turning to me. “You did say that it’s sis or girl for today, so I thought you might want to use feminine pronouns too? I’m sorry, did I screw up?” I hesitated for a moment, then replied, “No, it’s alright. I like them better anyway. For today, I mean,” I quickly added, seeing Viv and Ryan give me a capital-L Look. “Mmhmm,” she said. She sounded utterly unconvinced. We waited for a bit, and the crowd kept growing in size; ten minutes before the bell was to ring, there must have been about one hundred and fifty boys wearing skirts there. “Alright, listen up!” Viv said loudly, after calling for everyone’s attention. “Here’s the plan. When you get to class, the teachers will probably try to engage with you as soon as they notice what you’re wearing. Do not talk back, and do not argue with them.” “The only thing you have to say is that, according to the new dress code, there’s no rule against boys wearing skirts,” I continued. “Otherwise: plead the fifth. Even if they ask you questions, or demand to know who organised all this, you do not answer.” I paused, and ran my eyes over the crowd. “Any questions?” “You’re cute! Can I have your number?” called a voice. “If you behave maybe I’ll let you buy me lunch after this!” I shouted back, causing a general burst of laughter to erupt. “Anything else?” When no one replied I said, “Well then, people, showtime, let’s go!” Almost as a whole, the crowd marched to the school doors and then moved in; we got some bewildered stares from those who hadn’t heard about what we’d planned, but mostly people cheered and nodded approvingly as we passed. Ryan and I made our way to our classroom and sat down; the math professor arrived, and began to take roll call. When he called my name and I raised my hand, saying “Here,” was when the fun began. He boggled at me, eyes as wide as saucers. “Andrew, what the hell are you wearing?” he asked. “Clothes,” I replied. His eyes narrowed. “Don’t be cheeky with me young man. Why are you wearing a skirt?” I shrugged. “Ain’t no rule that says boys can’t wear skirts.” “There is. It’s the new dress code,” the teacher said, frowning. “No it’s not,” Ryan said from the back of the room, waving a copy of the letter that had been given to us the previous week. “Says here that girls can’t wear skirts shorter than knee-length, but it doesn’t say anything about boys.” The teacher’s frown deepened. “Give me that,” he said, marching to Ryan – giving him a once-over when he saw Ryan was wearing a skirt, too – and snatching the sheet of paper from his hand. He carefully read what was written on it, and his face went pale, just a little bit. “Excuse me for a moment,” he said, and then left the classroom in a hurry. There was a moment of silence, and then the room erupted into laughter. Several people got up from their desks and came over to me and Ryan, congratulating and patting us on the back. “Thank you, thank you,” I said. “But hold on on the congratulations, I think we still have some work to do.” As I’d guessed, about ten minutes later the PA system crackled to life. “All students, assemble in the gym immediately,” came the principal’s voice; we obeyed, getting up and marching over to the gym, where we were made to line up in front of the stands. The principal was pacing up and down along the lowest tier, and continued to give us withering stares as we filtered in. All in all, it took about half an hour before everyone got in. Then the principal called for silence, and faced the crowd; his eyes narrowed in seeing just how many of the boys were wearing skirts. “Who did this?” he demanded. No one answered. “I asked you a question!” he repeated, shouting the two final words. “I do my best to provide a positive learning environment, and you make a mockery of my rules!” He took a deep breath. “If the ones who came up with this don’t come forward right now, every boy who isn’t wearing trousers will get a one week suspension, and will be barred from after-school activities for the rest of the year!” he threatened. Without hesitating I raised my hand; out of the corner of my eye, I could see Jess and Viv do the same. We’d always planned to come forward, though we didn’t think the principal would resort to such threats. “You three, step forward,” he said. We complied, walking to the front of the crowd. “Well. What do you have to say for yourself?” he asked. “Your rules are dumb and antiquated,” Viv said. “Also, they place guilt on girls just for wearing clothes you don’t approve of.” Jess nodded. “Precisely. Men are the ones who should avoid staring, saying otherwise is just victim blaming.” The principal’s face had gone red, but he managed to keep his cool. “And yet, you’re not wearing a skirt today,” he said. “Curious. Perhaps you were afraid of being punished? At least your friend has some guts.” He turned to me. “What’s your name?” “Andi. With an I,” I replied, crossing my arms in front of me. “Well, Andi, you’re in violation of the dress code. One week’s detention,” he shot back. “As for you…” “No I’m not.” He’d started turning towards Viv and Jess, but looked back at me when I spoke up. “What?” “I’m not violating any rules,” I said. The principal looked at me carefully. “You’re a boy?” he asked. “But you’re wearing a skirt! Tights! Heels! Make-up, even!” “So what if I am?” He shook his head; he was clearly seething. “You’re just making a sorry spectacle of yourself. Men are supposed to look like men, and women are supposed to look like women, that’s the way it always has been.” “Well, maybe I’m a girl then,” I said. I turned my back to him and waved to the crowd. “Hey, y’all! News flash! Starting today, I’m a girl!” I turned back to the principal. “I still won’t obey your stupid rules.” His eyes flashed with anger. “Listen here, you little shit…” he hissed, but realised his mistake when everyone – students and teachers alike – gasped. “Oh, oh my!” I said, putting my hand to my mouth and pretending to be shocked. “You said a bad word!” Someone in the crowd chuckled, but the laugh was cut short when the principal glared in the general direction it had come from. “You three,” he said, pointing at us. “To my office. Now.” We nodded, and followed him to his office, two teachers walking closely behind us. When we arrived he had us sit down, and demanded to know our full names; then he called our parents. We sat in silence for probably half an hour, facing him, until mum and Viv’s father were shown into the office. Mum had a sombre expression on her face, deadly serious; I’d rarely seen her like that. She glanced at us, doing a small double-take when she saw how I was dressed, and then said, in a chilly voice: “Kids, please go wait outside.” “But…” the principal began, but she silenced him with a glare. The three of us walked out of the office, and shut the door. We were out there for probably ten minutes, and we don’t know exactly what words were said, since the principal’s office had very good soundproofing; after a couple minutes we could clearly hear shouting though, getting louder and louder, until mum threw the door open and marched out. “This isn’t over!” she said, pointing at the principal, who was still inside the room. Then she turned to us and said, “We’re leaving.” We separated there: Viv went with her father, while Jess and I followed mum through the school’s corridors, headed towards the guest parking lot. “Mum…” I began to say, but she shushed me: “Don’t say anything until we’re in the car.” Meekly, we kept following, until we reached her old, beaten up station wagon, climbed aboard (she in the driver’s seat, us in the back seat), and shut the door. Then she was quiet for a few seconds. “Mum?” Jess asked. In response, she just started laughing. Louder, and louder, and louder, until tears were streaming down her face. “Oh, god,” she guffawed. “His face, you should’ve seen his damn face! It was great, fantastic even,” she said, almost gasping for breath, she was laughing so hard. Slowly her laughter subsided; she took out a tissue from her purse, and dried her eyes. “Man, I haven’t laughed so hard in years,” she said. “This was too good. I’m so fucking proud of you, kids.” I don’t know what came over me, but at that moment I felt bold. “Girls,” I said. “I’m sorry, what was that?” she said, looking at us in the rear-view mirror; she was still taking deep breaths, calming herself down after her laugh. “I didn’t quite hear you.” “I’m a girl too, mum. My name is Andrea.” She spun around in her seat, and looked directly at me; I gulped. For a long, bone-chilling moment she just stared, without speaking, then her face broke into a grin. “Well, nice to meet you, Andrea! I’m mum,” she said. She offered me her hand, and I hesitantly shook it. She turned back to face the front. “Glad that’s cleared up,” she continued, putting her seat belt on and starting the car. “So, pizza and ice cream for lunch?”     The rest, as they say, is history. The school board called for an emergency meeting the very next evening: after all facts were presented and witnesses heard out, the principal was forced to rescind his dress code. Even more, he was ordered to write out three formal apology letters: one to the girls of the school, for trying to blame them for any boy’s wandering eye; one to the boys of the school, for assuming their eyes would wander and that they weren’t able to restrain themselves; and one to me, specifically, for calling me a little shit in front of the whole school. I still have that letter in my room somewhere, maybe I’ll get it framed one day. That was too much for the principal: after he’d sent the letters, he resigned from his post and moved away. I don’t know what happened to him after that. Viv, Jess, and I, were each given a week’s suspension, as a result of being the ringleaders of the protest, for “inciting students to disobey school rules and disrupting lessons.” We didn’t mind, it was worth it. After all, when we came back to school after the suspension we received a hero’s welcome. Nobody even seemed to mind that I was still wearing skirts after that, everyone took it in stride; though I still have to change clothes for gym in an empty classroom for the time being, while my parents and the school sort out the paperwork. Something else happened before we returned to school, however. In the middle of our suspension week, Jess and I were hanging out in her room when the doorbell rang. After a few moments we heard the front door open, and then mum called up the stairs: “Jess, Andi, Viv’s here!” “Send her up, mum!” Jess replied; Vivian made her way up the stairs, and entered Jess’ room. “Hi, Viv!” I said. “What’s the occasion?” She looked directly at me; she seemed a bit embarrassed. “Well, I was meaning to ask…” she said, then seemed to hesitate. But then she continued: “Do you maybe wanna go to the movies sometime?” Jess and I exchanged glances. “You mean as a…” “As a date, yes,” Viv clarified. I looked at her. “Viv, aren’t you a lesbian?” I asked. “I am,” she replied. “And you’re a girl.” I blinked; my mouth fell open. How in the hell? I hadn’t even come out to anybody outside my family yet! “Jess!” I snapped, turning my head to glare at her. “Hey, don’t look at me!” my sister protested. “I didn’t tell her!” “That’s right, she didn’t,” Vivian confirmed. “It was a guess. A well educated guess, though, after… Everything.” “…Was it really that obvious?” I asked. “Yes, it was,” she nodded. “So let me ask again.” She stepped forward and grabbed my hands. “Andi-with-an-I, would you like to go on a date with me?” I felt blood rush to my cheeks, and my lips involuntarily drew back into a smile. Out of the corner of my eye I saw that Jess had a cheeky grin plastered on her face; I would get back at her eventually, but at that moment I didn’t mind. “Yes, I would. Very much.”

Right from the beginning of time, there were gods and humans who made a pact with one another.  These humans were granted a 'gift' in exchange for this union and as such they were given the name 'shaman.'  With the passing of time, these gifted people became feared and were badly mistreated by the villagers and were taken to be the devil's mouthpiece.  Shunned and severely persecuted as messengers from the gods.  They were marked as outcasts by the villagers who had profited from their 'gifts'; many of them lost their lives and had to flee and from then on, they began living as fugitives. * * * * * Outskirts of Hanyang Inside a ramshackle hut a young maiden in worn-out cotton garment sat hunched by the fire on the dirt floor. She began rubbing her hands together to warm herself but the calluses that had formed from hard manual labor caused discomfort to her.  The friction split open the newly healed wound unconsciously making her wince in pain. "Hiss!" The night was unusually cold and the holes from the beat-up hut further added to the chill from within.  Perched on her back was a bag made from loose fabric; inside held all her earthly possessions and everything that she had scraped together. Rocking back and forth as she sat on the dirt floor; the flames from the fire illuminated the young maiden's pale face revealing the deep sadness that they held.  Moments later the rocking motion of the frail body gave in and fell flat to a deep slumber as the last embers of the fire died out bringing with it a harsh chilly wind.  But the exhausted maiden was far too gone to realize the danger of having no heat. The hut in complete darkness. ***** [Apparition] A bright golden light slowly brightens the hut and with it comes a man and a woman in regal garments. Mireuk, "Tsk! Foolish human! She couldn't keep the place warm for our daughter?! This will not do!" Dalnim, "Mireuk, is this the human that will keep Yuhwa's soul safe from Lord Seokga?" A pair of cold blue eyes fell on the sleeping maiden; there was disgust in the way he looked at her.  The two drew closer and the woman with the snap of her fingers caused a large pit of burning firewood to appear and a warm blanket. Mireuk, "This human is a powerful shaman, but it is not enough to put our daughter's soul at risk when she cannot do something as simple as having a fireplace." Mireuk, "Dalnim, I do not think it wise that we put our precious Yuhwa's soul into this human to keep her from Seokaga. The world is vast surely you don't think that we will not find another that can keep our daughter alive?" A troubled look settled on the face of the woman that was called Dalnim; her warm liquid brown eyes clouded and there seemed to be some conflict taking place within the otherworldly beauty.  Time stood at a standstill as the very air in the hut gave a slight tremble as though it was made aware that a life altering decision had been made.  Dalnim, [Sigh!] The woman's expression was not missed by the man as he saw a puff of air escape from her mouth and her shoulder slump as though in defeat.  As though they knew what the other thought; the woman placed the palm of a hand on that of the man's and there appeared a glowing golden egg.

And so I woke up in an alleyway. Was it day, or maybe night? I can’t tell. For I am a trash can. How did I get this way you might wonder. For I am a trash can, but before that I was a man. A human. My tale starts off the same way many other stories start off, generic, boring and always the same.  I think I was a salaryman working at a 9 to 5 job until suddenly I was hit by a truck coming through the window at over 90 miles per hour. Wait, or was it when I saw a cute girl or a kid and a car was about to run them over, a hero for a second and the gods suddenly blessed me with another life. No. No. It wasn’t that. I think I’ve always been this way. A trash can.  Eating other people’s trash.  That’s all I’m good for at least, in the corridor or alleyway, whatever you think I might be sitting in. As what matters the most is you, the reader and all the awesome stories and adventures we can go on. But we can’t, because. I’m a trash can.   -----------------------------------------------------------                Trash System Booting up…                                                                                                        ----------------------------------------------------------- Wow, a level system. This writer must be really trying to milk these readers, but you’ll stay and continue reading anyways, right?  It even has its own level system! But how does it work?   -----------------------------------------------------------   Trash Can       LVL: 1                                    -----------------------------------------------------------   Health          10                                          Mana            0                                           Strength        1                                           Dexterity       1                                           Luck            1                                           Intelligence    1                                                                                                                             -----------------------------------------------------------   Is the writer smart enough or artistic enough to make something better than this lousy table?  Probably not! /* Writer’s Note: Hey I’m doing my best asshole, alright? */ You can’t be serious, at least give me 1000 hp. Maybe 999 INT or 999 LUK. I mean how are we supposed to get any viewers without a gimmick? /* Writer’s Note: You’ll see… */ Hey, hey. I don’t like how you said that. At least tell me what’s going on. Suddenly, someone walks over carrying a large trash bag out of a building, they walk over to trash can senpai as they throw the trash into him. -----------------------------------------------------------              New Object Received!                                         Trash x01                                                            Experienced Gained 1                   -----------------------------------------------------------   Ah, ah. It hurts. Hey! I gained an experience point. The status sheet appears on the screen.   -----------------------------------------------------------   Trash Can       LVL: 1                         1/10                                  -----------------------------------------------------------   Health          10                                          Mana            0                                           Strength        1                                           Dexterity       1                                           Luck            1                                           Intelligence    1                                                                                          ----------------------------------------------------------- The hell is this? Only one experience? Hey writer do a better job! We’re gonna lose the viewers if you don’t give me at least 10 points. Give me 10 points! We see a shot of the alleyway as the trash can continues to shout. I know you can hear me! Stop pretending to ignore me and do something! The Little Trash can with an attitude continues to shout. END OF CHAPTER HEY! HEY! YOU CAN’T JUST END A CHAPTER LIKE THIS. WHERE'S THE CLIFFHANG-

     I flew to the ground, tossed out the front door to my own home. I stared at the front door to the house I grew up in. Standing tall and imposing in the door frame was my father. His face red as hot iron, sweat beaded up and rolled down his head, his brow was furrowed in rage and his forehead vein bulging. “Erik I-I swear. If you grab that bag, If you grab that bag,” He started only to stop and adjust his grip on his hammer, knuckles turning white. “if you grab that bag and start walking down that road into town. I’ll have no son,” He said dabbing away the sweat with his sleeve, his other hand holding his trusty work sledge. “You step foot in town, and you best be looking for a new job and home because you will never come back here.”      “Fine,” I said grabbing my bag. “You stopped caring when Ma passed anyway. Took to working the forge every hour of the day and night and drink as a way to escape.” I spat. “I have plans. I know people.” I grabbed my bag and stood up dusting myself off. “Don’t drink and use the forge, your breath might set the workshop on fire.” I snarled as I began walking, turning my back on the man who tried to raise me. I made it a good way too before the hammer went flying past my shoulder. ---      I walked into Hythe with a hand up over my bruising eye. Sure I got caught off-guard. I wasn’t expecting the man to throw a four pound sledge at me. So when I turned to ask him he he lost his mind I caught his fist. I groaned. It had all been bluster and bluff. I wasn’t expecting him to get that mad at me. Yeah I said that he worked too hard and I might have insinuated that his breath after a few drinks was flammable, but I was expecting this to be something that I would go into town, have a few drinks myself and come home and everything would be fine. I guess not so much as when I got home he had changed the locks and refused to open the door. I checked my bag, at least it stayed in one piece during the fight. I had a spare set of clothes and about 5 silver coins tucked into my spare set of traveling shoes. As long as I was smart it would last me at least a month or two out on my own.      I spent the next week looking high and low for work. I played to my strengths. I was a Blacksmith’s Son, but I knew ass from elbow about smithing. I had never spent time with my father in the forge so that was a no go, however I had spent a considerable amount of time with my ma learning to read recipes and baking...but I had the sense of taste of a worm. So baking was hopeless. As time wore on I found myself committing to doing the odd job or two. It wasn’t fun, but moving items, delivering small parcels by foot, and the like paid for my stay at the Inn. Eventually I found a caravan looking to hire some additional haulers. The merchants assumed by the bruising on my face and the worn look of my clothing that I was tough, and capable.       So I ended up riding along with them. I rode free of charge for a grand total of three weeks and arrived at Port Arathmore, The Largest Port in the Kingdom of Lenrevy. During the ride I hung out with the Caravan Master’s mother, Madam Drae, and she knew how to read ledgers and purchase orders and had me moved from being a crate-hauler to being her assistant when she learned I could read some. By the time we reached the Port I had a better grasp on my letters and numbers than I did before. She wanted me to stay with the caravan so badly, she said I had a good head for numbers and I was sly which both were qualities needed in good merchants. I declined however as I felt as good as it was traveling with the caravan and seeing the countryside roll by that it wasn’t for me. She said she knew some people looking for hard-workers in the Port and gave me a list of names and small parcel of gold and silver coins to keep me fed for a week or two.      So here I was, far and removed from my father, with nothing to my name but a few coins and a change of clothes. I began my search again. As I moved around through the thick crowds of the port city I didn’t have to worry about cut-purses because I kept the coins safely in my bag. I did however have to worry about being mugged. I was walking towards the nearest Inn when I was dragged in the the cramped alleyway by an absolute giant. I remember his words like it happened yesterday. “Your bag or your life.” ---      “Wait you mean to tell me that you were robbed in broad daylight by a literal Giant outside?” The man interrupted me looking me over with his embers-for-eyes. “As in like...today?” He added looking over my paperwork and adjusting the sleeve of his dark green robes. “Your paperwork said you arrived in town today.”      I stammered a bit looking down at my dirty clothes, covered in alley-waste and bits of chum. “As I was saying I remember it like it happened yesterday.” I started.      The man just groaned. “Okay, so You...Erik, Son of Yarrick?” He said squinting as he held the piece of parchment closer to his face. “What makes you want to apply for the Herbalist’s Guild.” He said picking up and looking over the silver coins on the counter before pulling out a scale. “Surely you’ve heard of our...reputation.” he said dropping the silver onto the scale with a soft clink.      “Nah,” I said flatly. “I heard that you all were a very hospitable place and willing to take in just about anyone who met the bare minimum requirements.” I said fiddling with a loose string on my sleeve. “I saw a flier, and when I grabbed it one of the fishermen near the docks said I should head this way especially if I wasn’t from around here because you’d give free food and board to your apprentices. So I made my way here significantly less burdened...what with the loss of my life savings and the rest of my worldly possessions.”      “Well you said during your, story, that you can read and write and you obviously have a strong sense of imagination and creativity. I hate to be the one doing this but your silver is real and you signed the parchment yourself without being under duress or coercion...I, Ezra Balfew of the Herbalists Guild, hereby declare you, Erik Yarrickson, probationary apprentice to the Port Arathmore Guild of Herbalism.” Ezra said stamping a wax seal on my parchment. “There will be a period of learning followed by some testing before you can be granted status as a genuine apprentice in the guild. Failure to meet expectations means you will be indebted to the guild for food and board during this time.” He added with a grim smile. “The cost of failure in this case Erik...is thrice what you paid in silver.”      I did the math quickly and only using a few of my fingers...it was infinitely more than I had considering I just paid the man what was left of my life’s savings to apply. ---      I made my way through the guild-house alone with my thoughts. Having to pay back three silver was going to be tough especially since as an apprentice of the Guild I wasn’t allow to accept outside work. I wandered down a hallway towards what I assumed was the bunkhouse. Instead I found myself if a massive enclosed greenhouse. rows and rows of potted plants. I knew some of them as the typical herbs and spices often used for cooking like thyme, sage, and rosemary. However this room also held plants I had never seen before. vines climbing trellises with flowers as big as my head, to tiny little mushrooms growing from colonies on a log in a dark corner.      “Oh Hello. I didn’t know we were expecting guests,” I hear a voice say as I looked around. I turned to watch a woman exit the gossamer cloth that was casting the shadows over the previously mentioned mushrooms. As she got closer to me it was then that I noticed the massive rack she had. It had to be at least a 12 point set of antlers curling above her head. “I am Leah, I tutor the plant cycles and identification of rare ingredients.”      I just stood shocked for a moment. I mean Mr.Balfew had eyes that looked like fire, but this was something completely foreign to me. “I uh...I’m Erik. I’m new? I think”      “Hmm you’re one of the new probationary members then,” she said as she grabbed a pot from under some kind of light focusing contraption in the window with a what appeared to be a single stick embedded in the dirt. “Well. You’re always welcome here and I’m almost always available to talk, If I’m busy you can always talk to Sprig,” she said  “Wake up Sprig we have company.” she whispered to the stick.      I stood silently and watched as the little stick began to wiggle about and a single leaf sprouted from the very top of the stick. “H-Hello...Sprig?”      “They’re growing, but it’s slow going because Sprig likes very specific temperatures and absolutely HATES the water the younger guild members try and water them with,” She sighed. “But enough about us. What brought you here to the Guild?”      “It’s a long story. Do you know the way to the bunk room. I can recount the tale on the way there.” At this she just smiled at me and picked up the small pot and placed it safely in her horns.      I recounted the entire story from the beginning to her. Me being kicked out of my childhood home, the inability to find steady work, the migratory work, the mugging and the eventual application into the guild. Before long we found ourselves standing at the doorway into the common room. The other prospective guild members were also hanging out here waiting for instructions. I thanked her and she quickly went back to the greenroom carrying Sprig.      I waited looking at the others. It was myself, two women and two men. The girls were different heights, the tallest one was obviously Northern Ancestry as she had the fair skin, blond hair, and ice blue eyes of the North, the shorter girl might’ve even had Dwarven blood in her as hair was a forge-fired copper color. I looked over them as they shared an animated conversation.      The men however were the ones I was most interested in. The first gentleman was tall, broad and built like he was a mercenary. Bulging muscle and scars across his arms. I walked over to him with a smile and a hand up to show I was being friendly. As I got close he took one look at me and turned his gaze out the window. “Don’t talk to me,” he grunted. “Kids like you are always more trouble than what you’re worth. I don’t have any thing to share with you. I don’t have any family secrets, no hidden knowledge and I don’t need a friend.” I got the hint immediately and turned right around. He probably could have broken me over his knee with one hand.      The other man just laughed at this exchange. “Oh man,” he said looking over at the women. “That’s rough buddy, even if Grampa Grump over there won’t be your friend I’m still here.”      “Awesome, I’m Erik.” I said extending a hand which he quickly grabbed and shook vigorously.      “Senn, spelt S-E-N-N” He said beaming at me. “I’m so excited. My brothers are Guild Masters over in Talenhold and I’ve been dying to join since I was old enough to watch them work with pestle and mortars. The thrill of mixing things to potentially combustible conclusions...” He said pulling a book out of his bag, and pulling a braid of hair over his shoulder. “I’ve kept a journal of various alchemical materials and I believe if I can just get the numbers right I could produce a powder that once ignited would continue to burn uninterrupted for years if not decades even! The applications for such a powder. Cooking, light sources, even blacksmithing would be revolutionized by Senn’s Sensational Phlox Powder!”      I laughed nervously at the sudden expressed passion towards fire, but when my new friend mentioned blacksmithing it made me think of home. I still missed my father. We had our fights and disagreements. I knew I was right and he was wrong but that’s beside the point. He was still my father in the end and I hoped that he was still doing okay. “You know you could just name it Sennsational Phlox with two N’s like your name,” I said looking at him. “It’s shorter, it’s easier to remember, and that way your name is the merchant’s mark.”      He paused flipping through his book to look up at me. “Erik. Did you honestly just think that up right now? Like from your brain?” He said slamming the book closed. “because that. That right there is pure GENIUS.”      “Genius or not, you all will get the opportunities to learn more about each other in the coming weeks,” a familiar voice said as he walked in the room. It was none other than Mr.Balfew and an assistant carrying several bundles of clothes as well as bags for the five of us. “Your Robes, which you will wear as they are both a symbol of your pride as an Apprentice to the Guild as well as your uniform.”      “The bags contain a blank journal, ink, and a small set of trade tools,” The woman standing behind him said. I met her gaze and gasped. Just like Leah she was different too. Her eyes were bright yellow with no visible whites and her pupils looked like she could see for miles. She dropped the bags in front of us softly. “The Quill included was made by yours truly. They’re a gift from me. You get one. Lose it and you’re paying the guild to replace it. Your first ‘lesson’ starts this evening after dinner. I am Cassandra; it’s nice to meet you all.”      As they turned to leave that was when I noticed the feathers that I thought were just woven into her hair were actually a part of her head. I groaned. Oh what did I get myself into. ---      Dinner went far more quickly than I had expected. I groaned as I slipped the robe on. It was a dull green with no frills, no stole or shoulder cape like the actual guild member’s robes sported. We all stood in the common room standing in a line. The blonde woman stood at the very far left at the start of the line up. I had positioned myself safely between The Mountain Man and the Half-Dwarven woman.      Mr.Balfew walked in with several round bottom potion vials sitting on a tray. His hood was drawn up over his head and he was wearing the full Guild Master’s ensemble. Cape, a long stole, several rope cords around his shoulders, and his robes were trimmed in gold thread. He walked deliberately slow as Leah and Cassandra as well as other unacquainted guild members stood a the outside edges of the room. “Guild Members, mentors, and future tutors to the soon to be initiated, These people come before us, from a range of backgrounds,” he said as I could see his eyes of fire looking at me from under his hood. “Like you they will be undergoing the time honored tradition of consuming a draught created by one of you comprised of various herbs one of which must be Loki’s Fingers.”      I saw the others around me grow tense at the mention of this herb. “As you might not know, Loki’s Fingers is a herb that grows only out in the wild, it dies when attempted to grow in a controlled environment, and has a wide range of effects on the body,” Mr.Balfew continued. “Physical changes are common. Manifestations of strange and unique powers are rare but not unheard of, and even flat out death can and has occurred in these halls due to Loki’s Fingers before.”      Cassandra stepped forward at this. “Those of you that would like to forgo this trial; speak now knowing that you will be further apprenticeship hinges on your decision. This is your first lesson, and welcome again to the Herbalist’s Guild.” She said as she walked forward and moved the vials off the tray and onto the table nearby. “You won’t be told the contents of the vial or it’s brewer until after it’s passed your lips. When all possible transformations or manifestations have completed it will be revealed who brewed the concoction you drank. You will then be assigned to them as an Apprentice.”      “Come forward and be given your gift.” Mr.Balfew said ominously looking at the blonde woman.      She stepped forward with the grace of a dancer or maybe a courier. She looked over the vials for a long while before picking up one from close to the center of the pile. It was the only vial in a plain bottle with a clear liquid settled inside placidly. She quickly uncorked in a before she could put it in her mouth she smelled the liquid and grimaced. “I have to drink this,” she said it sounding almost like a question. “I have to drink this.”      She took a deep breath in and tipped the vial back finishing it in a single draft. She set the vial back down on the table and groaned. Her face revealed obvious pain as she clutched her stomach and doubled over. Everyone in the room watched the scene. Her ears seemed to almost melt and fold over into the side of her head as they disappeared she continued to groan one hand going from her stomach to the top of her head, and before long a set of triangular ears with fluff seemed to sprout up from nothing. As she continued to groan an obvious bulge appeared in the back of her robe as she let out a small gasp. Shooting up from her hunched over posture to her back being arched; her ears twitched and the mass in the back of her robe pushed against the constraining fabric. “Emilia, You’ve been graced with the Aspect of the Fox, and I will be your Mentor. I was gifted with the Aspect of the Falcon.” Cassandra said with a smile.      Senn was next and stepped forward eagerly. He looked over the table of vials and was taking his time to look over them carefully. He lifted and swirled every vial he could in his hands and took note of the various marks, attachments, and special talismans on each one. Before long he settled on a vial that had a single talisman stuck to the front and the cork on top was specially fitted with a one way valve that was allowing a slow and steady hiss of gas to escape.  The liquid inside the vial itself was inky black and effervescent bubbling away like boiling tar. “The stopper is because the pressure inside continues to mount and they were afraid of the cork becoming less a stopper and more a projectile, and the talisman is providing a constant heat source to the inside of the vial so the contents must be thermally sensitive,” Senn began. “Oh I wish I could keep a small amount and test it myself.” He said peeling the stopper off with a pop as the liquid inside reacted with the air going from inky black to a transparent and swirling spectrum of colors. “It gets better!”      Mr.Balfew coughed, his patience obviously worn thin. “Mr.Arret, There are others waiting. Please drink your selected vial.”      Senn just looked over at him with a smile and tossed the vial back. “Tastes of mixed berries and...is that garlic I taste? Oh suddenly it got quite sour. This is so interes‒” He stopped mid-sentence as he locked up and fell onto his back as small jolts of visible electricity sparked off him. Before long a large halo of electricity shot up staring at his feet and ending in his eyes as they began to glow as lines like lightning bolts traced away from his eyes. Mr.Balfew let out a peal of laughter as Senn finally sat up.      “Senn, You’ve been gifted with the Aspect of Lightning, and I will be your Mentor. I was gifted with the Aspect of Fire.” Mr.Balfew said, helping him up off the floor. “Welcome to the Herbalist’s Guild.”      As Senn stepped back into line The Wall of Flesh stepped forward. “I don’t care about the specifics, I just want to get this done so I can start making some money,” he said grabbing a vial that was held together by thick riveted bands of iron. Without wasting any time he had torn the cork out of the bottle and threw it over his shoulder and drank the potion. He said nothing as he dropped the vial on the floor with a loud clunk. He just stood there, his face contorted with what looked like anger. Before anyone could step forward and ask if everything was okay he clenched his fists and took a massive breath in and released it as a soul-shaking bellow as curling horns pierced his forehead and spiraled under his ears as they changed shape as well. He continued to stand as his legs under his robes were obviously twisting and changing shape. As his bellow ended he stomped down with one of his legs and I heard the tile give way with a loud crack. He snorted through his nose a few times and blinking his eyes revealing the slotted pupils. “Done.” He said stepping back in line and cracking his knuckles.      For a while everyone was quiet, and finally one of the other guild members stepped forward, his skin was a mix between normal fleshy bits and tracts of red scales. “Aodhan, You’ve been gifted with the Aspect of the Minotaur, and I will be Your Mentor. I was gifted with the Aspect of the Dra--”      “I get it, you’re my mentor and you’re gonna teach me how to turn lead into gold...Don’t waste time with small talk.” Aodhan said, crossing his arms and snorting. “We start lessons early tomorrow morning. I wake up at the fourth hour of the day and start with an hour of exercise. Anytime after that is good.”      The Guild mentor said nothing and the look that he was giving him was indecipherable. “We’ll begin early, but I am your mentor and you will listen to what I say.”      Aodhan laughed at this. “Right Man-Lizard. I’ll let you call the shots I guess.”      With this everyone settled back into place as Mr.Balfew turned to me. I swear I could feel his smile under the shadow of his hood, but all I saw was those flickering eyes again. “Mr.Yarrickson. Please step forward and select a vial.”      There were still quite a few bottles on the table of various colors and markings. I gulped before finally reaching for one that stood out from the rest. It had a small emblem of an enclosed tree in a circle made out of metal dangled from the neck of the bottle, and the color was a rich brown with flecks of white floating. I pulled the cork out of the bottle quickly and gave a quick smell of the contents. It smelled vaguely of pine and lemon like the memory of a soap. I took a breath and felt myself start to sweat. This was something that potentially would leave a permanent mark on my person. it could change who I am forever. I looked at Mr.Balfew who just nodded and shook a finger at me. I looked across at the other apprentices. Aodhan was too busy feeling his horns and I could hear the ‘Tak tak’ of his new hooves on the tile. Emilia had fished her new tail out of her robe and was stroking it comfortingly. Senn was playing with a small arc of lightning that he was bouncing between his index fingers.      I gave the vial a tentative swirl and noticed the liquid shift from the brown with white flecks to a metallic gold with black flecks before shifting back to it’s original colors. I felt a lump in my throat form as I realized at this point I couldn’t very well not drink it. “Mr.Yarrickson. You’re not really afforded the chance to take your time here. Yvonna is waiting for you to finish,” Mr.Balfew said gesturing to the last woman in line his amusement apparent in “Please.”      I threw the vial back and it traced a path of fire down my throat into my stomach. I coughed and dropped the vial as I fell to my knees struggling to breath. I watched my vision grow red around the edges as my heart began to beat hard. I watched some of the Mentors step forward only for them to be stopped by Mr.Balfew. He said something but it was like trying to hear him through wet cotton stuff in my ears. I felt myself slide down to the floor as the red edges started turning black and crawling inward slowly. I felt my breathing stop. Everything was on fire. I tried to cry out. I was sorry that I left my dad on such poor terms. I never meant to hurt him. I just didn’t want to follow the same path he did in life. I tried to cry out to my mom. If I was dying I at least wanted her there to welcome me. I was also angry, furious even. I trusted Mr.Balfew. I knew he didn’t like me but to tell the other guild members to ignore the fact I was dying. I felt myself growing more angry as the burning finally began to stop.      The world around me was shifting. I was in pain and I felt an unbridled rage filling me. I heard a cacophony of muddled voices, screams and harsh sounds. My vision swam in a vivid spectrum of color. Shadows in strange people-shapes moved around me as I stood there. I was cold. I was also uncomfortably warm. I saw darkness and light. I was floating and I was also grounded at the same time. Time moved forward at a rapid pace, but also the hands of the clock held fast. Nothing made sense as I stood among the chaos that reveled around me. I reached out to try and touch a shadow only to be met with pain. I tried to speak and only more pain rose to greet me. My rage quickly gave way to fear as I realized this might truly be the end of me.      Before I tried anything else the shifting colors and strange sounds all came together. I was home. Not the home I had been kicked out of but the one I remembered...the simple wood floors were clean, a fire was rolling in the fireplace and the warm smell of baking bread was wafting through the air. I was seated at the table with an open notebook in front of me that had long since been filled and discarded. I was so small it seemed as everything was huge. I could hear my rhythmic hammer blows coming in through the window.      I heard footsteps round the corner from the kitchen. I looked up and saw her standing there. It had been so long since I had seen her last. I had forgotten what her face had looked like. “Oh sweetheart. You’re so brave, and I’ve missed you so much...but now isn’t the time dear,” she said with an almost musical laugh. “I promise I’m not going anywhere. I’m always here for you. I love you.”      She came over and wrapped me in a hug as I felt the tears I had been struggling to hold back finally rolling down my face. “I’m so sorry.” I started only to stop and try and rub away tears as they fell.      She just shushed me and gave me a quick peck on the forehead. “I know. I’ve watched it all. I wish you could stay, but when it’s time everything will be ready for you,” she said looking down at me with a warm smile. “You need to wake up.” ---      “You. Need. To. Wake. Up.” I heard loud and clear as I felt blows on my chest.      I gasped and took a deep breath in and began sobbing. I pulled myself up into a seated position on the floor. I covered my face in my hands and just let all the pain and hurt the last couple years had given me out. I finally took a look around. The tears were blurring my vision and I swore I saw her smiling at me, but as I rubbed my tears away it was Leah. She was smiling at me with concern still on her face.     “Erik, You’ve been gifted with the Aspect of...” Leah began. “Lucidity.”  She said with a pause. “ and I will be your Mentor. I was gifted with the Aspect of the Hart.” She smiled at me and worked to wipe away the tears still fresh on my face. “Welcome to the Guild.”

That careless mistake produced a significant impact. The same head movement every time I crossed a street—you know, look sideways to avoid a car crash. No one, zero cars, not even a single soul. A thought came to mind—completely desert, nothing will happen, George, go for it. Perhaps the universe decided to extinguish my life for some reason because as soon as I stepped into the street, reaching half of it, a car came rushing out of nowhere collapsing at me. I didn’t even get the chance of hospital recovery— I would die anyway, having this thin body that looked like a stick, and questionable health you wouldn’t count. My life ended just like that—I know, a dull type of death, but don’t worry, my afterlife compensated. The days before the accident were relatively ordinary. The same routine every time, wake up, breakfast, work to pay my college bills, and of course, endure my annoying brother­–I knew he wasn’t adopted, no way I could beat up a stranger that badly. I loved him though; we fought every day, and yet we could always count on each other—ah sweet, sweet family. Arriving at my job was the first challenge of the day, thirty minutes driving—I don’t comprehend how I managed to accomplish the feat of not resigning my job, well done George. Serving customers, having to put on a smile while confronting dumb elderly that had no clue about tech. I worked as a tech seller–shitty job, I know, but that’s what I have. My boss wasn’t that terrible—I mean, he did run a tech company without knowing shit about it, but I guess that’s typical these days. No way I would travel back home just for lunch, arriving here was already that terrible. The night time cooking reigned, and the packed lunch was marvelous–even though I attended at Computer Science, I thought I cooked sufficiently well, perhaps I selected the wrong course. Lunch didn’t get much variety, rice, steak, and a bunch of vegetables—it is impressively healthy, but my body condition shows otherwise. “US$0,89 sir.” The woman said to me, smiling. “Here.” I tossed her a dollar—I should ‘had tossed her a coin; that would be a well-timed pun, another decision I regret. My lunch didn’t include soda, that’s the reason I went shopping at the convenience store right next to my workplace. The work started again not long after. I had to be friendly, baring a smiley face while concealing the thoughts of punching every customer that I put the sight on. “Farewell George, see you tomorrow,” Theo said to me after the expedient was over. “Sayonara Theo.” I said that but actually, I wanted to say this—bye, Theo, I hope I don’t picture you tomorrow because if I get the opportunity I will never come back here. That sounded quite funny having the fact that I would die the next day—careful of what you desire I suppose. After that tedious day at work, it was now time for a tedious night at college. I hated every word that came from Professor Jim's mouth, didn't matter how clear they were, how well explained, or if the subject was elementary, it never made sense to me. He always said— pay attention I’ll not explain this a second time—I wouldn't understand even if he explained it to me ten times more. “You look like a zombie George, what happened?” My colleague said that smiling—you shitty, acting like you don’t know what I have to endure. “Nothing really, an exhausting day at work I suppose.” Rotating my head towards the notebook, pretending to write so that no one would bother me. Professor’s Jim class took an eternity to end. I embraced a theory that he could control time, the sole explanation for this phenomenon. After hours of non-stop torture, the clock announced my miseries finale. Driving back home with the radio on, thinking–is this the life I want? A shitty job, college classes that I can't comprehend, feel more like torture than a life worth living. Turning the keys and opening the door of the place I called home. “It’s me, don’t freak out.” My voice echoed through the house, announcing my arrival. No one answered me. My phone screen displayed 11 PM, which explains why my house looked like a graveyard, completely silent. However, I could still hear snoring sounds from within my brother's bedroom—is he cosplaying a pig or something? Damn, this bastard possesses an innate annoying skill. They had left food in the fridge, but my body was so damn tired that I just crashed. The alarm rang, announcing that another tedious day would start. Slamming the annoying thing and picking up my phone, a pleasant surprise entered my sight—today is Saturday, how could a forget that. The mood instantly brightened, smiling, I conducted every morning action with delight. “George, are you awake?” A voice came from afar. “I'm just getting out of the bathroom, don't need to ask me, I already know what to do.” It was Saturday after all, which meant shopping ingredients for lunch—yeah, I was busy even in my day-off. “You're so dedicated, son. Take care on the way, make sure to look at both sides before crossing the street.” “I'm a grown-up man, please, be at ease.” Putting on my black jeans that had a visible look of multiple usages, the green t-shirt that transformed me into a cactus, ridiculous, and the white sneakers that had nothing in common with the previous items. The rest you already know. A random car slammed me while I crossed the street, extinguishing my pathetic life—here’s the fascinating part. After my vision got blurred, something unexpected happened, I was alive again. –Well, I was a stone, alive doesn’t fit entirely. There was no God, or divine entity saying—Hello George, I’ll show you the way. It just happened, one moment I was there and in the other, I wasn't. Everything was dark, silent, the senses that had always accompanied me, gone. Terrifying thoughts ran wild—will I stay like this forever? I can’t handle it. The mental torture inflicted was too much, would undoubtedly drive any man crazy. Time notion was long gone, passed smoothly after my consciousness faded, slumping into the darkness. A changing day finally came, an unknown reason wakened me up again, after who knows how much time. —Where am I? What’s this liquid surrounding me? Disgusting. An urge broke within my body, advising me to break through the barrier standing in front of me. The cracking sound spread, alerting everyone nearby. A shimmering light entered my sight, making me bewildered, unable to see clearly. Shell chunks similar to an egg scattered next to me, and the unknown liquid dripped, making me uneasy. Trees and dense vegetation were surrounding me, and a refreshing breeze passed through my face, releasing the scent of flowers that entered my nostrils, giving me a moment of pleasure. The excitement within my body made me tingle, and my curiosity reached its peak, like a child anxious to discover the world for the first time. My walking turned out to be taxing, only a few steps in, and my legs were already sore, incapable of moving any further. —What type of creature am I? I walk like a reptile. Arms and legs were equal, making it hard for me to get used to its movements. —Damn, it sure is hard to walk using four limbs. The new environment was fascinating. Sunlight streamed down, giving warm for all the living beings. Birds sang a sweet melody, and crickets followed along as if they were a band presenting a show. Pioneering the jungle relentlessly, having no idea of what direction to take, hoping that the said path was the correct. My past life knowledge held its importance, giving light at the end of the tunnel. –I should find a river, water is the priority, and all the surviving TV shows taught me this way. My senses were different now, heightened. The sound of flowing water entered my ears, increasing my anxiety but it also gave me a feeling of relief—I’ll not die on the first day by thirst, progress. The river was not far away, entering my sight after a five-minute marathon—it was a marathon to me all right, don’t judge, like I said, walking using four limbs was harder than you may think. Owning an intelligence far beyond my peers, I watched closely at every corner, making sure no predators were around to catch me off-guard. —It seems safe, I hope. A purified, crystal-like water stood right in front of me. My mouth salivating, my thirst was almost unbearable at this point. My walking was slow but paced, arriving at the corner of the river. The water was so clean that my reflection showed up. —So this is how I look, I’m a fucking lizard, great. What is wrong with my back? Black skin covered with scales, a rounded face, and dark eyes similar to a black hole. Small limbs, sharp white claws at my fingertips, and a tail that helped maintain my body’s balance. A shiny green gem stood at my back, having a function that I had yet to discover. Thirst sated, but the hunger soon arose, making me uncomfortable. The type of food I could consume was unknown to me, and the thought of it gave me a headache. Without options, the bush that entered my sight ended up being my snack. The greenish bush stood no chance, crushed by my razor-sharp teeth, passing through my throat and falling into my stomach. —This is good, surprisingly, now I need a place to stay safe at night. The forest was vast, and the ringing sound came from every direction, my body trembled, afraid of the unknown sounds that came from afar. Night unlighted my surroundings, but fortunately, a decayed tree appeared in my sight, filled with insects and mosses. My body squeezed, barely being able to enter it. –This will do for the night, it’s better than outside at least. Tiredness soon came, my entire body went numb, fading. At dawn, my heart raced like crazy. —What noise is this?

A foul stench filled her nose. A was a stew of smells emanating from the amalgamation of corpses - the corpses of Man, Tohr, Palyd, Uldaer, Va’sai and Morkin alike; all intertwined with one another - and their blood brewing together in the heat of the Taathic sun. It was a stench so vile it could make a gibbot flea from a perfectly laid-out moltar carcass. Yet she did not falter.Even though such stench hung in the air… Even though such a scene laid out in front of her…She still staggered on - trudging through the ocean of bodies and staggering over the occasional detached limb. She somehow managed to block out the stench as well as the choir of moans and howls from those still clinging onto their final breaths. She removed her dented helmet and flung it to the sandy floor revealing her face - it was stained from war. She was an Uldaer. Still young and beautiful with long golden hair discoloured by blood not of her own; and tired brown eyes glazed with a coat of resolution. She lumbered towards her sword, it was only a few meters away but to her it felt almost unreachable. The sword was still wedged into the back of a faen, gleaming in the light of the sun. She slowly made her way to the sword, took hold of the gold-etched hilt, pressed her foot down onto the faen and drew her sword from it’s lifeless body. Even though the fighting had stopped and she was the only being with the strength to move, the battle was not yet won. He was still alive. She knew he was; she could feel him. She could feel his presence still lingering about, it almost made it hard to even breathe. He was still breathing the very air she was, that thought alone made her stomach wrench but it also gave her the energy to keep on moving - almost involuntarily as if some force was carrying her exhausted body. She would not stop moving. She could not stop moving. She had to rid him from this world and all the darkness that lurks within him. If she did not - she knew the world would fall to the Shadow. The light-filled days of Faera would cease, and the evernights of Shaa would come to be. She could not allow that to happen for she was Sarelli of the Light, The Hand of Faera, and the protector of the Shining World. It was her duty to vanquish all darkness and to restore the peace this war-riddled world dreamed for. As she stumbled her way to the peak of a dune dotted with the bodies of Morkin, a bitterness crept into her face. She stopped…It was him… Malakoth - The Lord of Shadows. The Son of Shaa. Finally he was in her sight. He was slumped on the floor, his body leaning backwards with support from his hands buried into the sands beneath him. He was badly wounded, a large laceration drew from his left rib cage down to his hip - gushing out streams of blood which poured into a pool below him. His head hung back. Face even more pale than it usually was, and his shadow-filled eyes fixated on the empty sky above. He closed his eyes, drew in a deep breath, exhaled, then open them again. “It seems the storm clouds have passed and the sun has finally decided to show herself.” he muttered with his eyes still not breaking their hold with the sky. She spared no consideration for his comment, she couldn’t care to entertain his final thoughts. Instead she kept on walking towards him with barely enough energy to carry her sword; causing it to drag in the red sand leaving a trail behind her. He finally broke lock with the sky and his eyes fell upon her as she waded towards him. “Ah, I see my time has finally come. My execution shall we call it.” He gave a short chuckle before being interrupted by a bloody cough.“This is indeed your execution Malakoth, as well as the exorcism of all the shadows you’ve laced into this world.” she barked. She lifted her sword with the strength she thought had run dry. She held it over his chest in preparation for the execution. “If you truly think impaling that length of steel through my heart will purge this world of the Shadows of Shaa, you are gravely mistaken my old friend.” He grinned. “There will always be shadows behind the light, you of all people should know this young Sarelli.” “Hold your tongue! Your merciless reign has come to an end, your corruption is no more! Now you shall die!” She plunged her sword down into Malakoth’s chest. A loud wince broke from him, “My shadows have traveled further than you think lightbearer… and closer than you wish to know.”. A black cloud of shadows began to pour out from the point where the sword embedded itself into his body, then from the wound on his side as well as his eyes and mouth. “My purpose was to simply to plant the seed and that is what I have done. Shaa is eternal!” he howled. Sarelli knew what she now had to do; and she knew what the cost of doing it would be - but she couldn’t allow the Shadow to consume any more souls than it already had. She pulled her sword out from Malakoth’s body and held it parallel to her own. “I Sarelli of the Light call onto Faera, the mother of all which breathes. The just and the merciful. Lend me your light one last time so that I can rid this world of the Shadows of Shaa once and for all. I am a Sylarie, a bearer of light and the Hand of Faera. Now watch me shine!” Her body engulfed into a white blaze and her sword began to shine a light so bright it rivaled the sun.“Shadow fear me now for your time is over!” Her skin began to broil and char. She was harnessing more light than any being could handle. She couldn’t take much more, her body would turn to ash if she did; but she had to finish this. The mass of shadows billowing out from Malakoth’s body began to siphon in towards the iridescent sword. “The one who has plagued this realm for so long shall be purged!”. She began to rise up with the sword still inhaling the shadows from below.“BEGONE!” she roared - a roar loud enough to scare even the largest of beltor - followed by a colossus outburst of pure white light erupting from Sarelli. A ripple of the light flooded the land, consuming all life in its path and blinding those from distant lands who happened to set their eyes upon it. Then, just as quickly as it came, the bright light faded - revealing leagues of empty, lifeless land. It was as if the war had never happened; as if the countless lives had never been lost. There were no more remnants of war; everything, erased.All that remained as a reminder of the Black War were the occasional ruins still standing, the tears from the ones who lost those they loved, and Sarelli’s sword - lodged upright into the ground where Malakoth perished.However, they were just reminders, stories of a dark past wanting to be forgotten - and once the centuries had passed, the tears had dried out, and the sword had been hidden away; those stories turned to legends. Legends told as bedtime stories to children about the light of Sarelli - the Protector of the Shining World, and the darkness of Malakoth - the Son of Shaa - in the hope their hearts will shine in Faera’s light and never wander down the path of shadows. But they were no fantastical legends. They were true stories; incomplete.

“As I say!” the being said to me. “Unlimited POWER!!!” …and I threw it off a cliff. What? I’m fond of my eternal soul thank you. No need to bargain with one of the Djinn just to lose it in the process. I turn around and walk away from the cliff, heading back to the massive underground treasure hoard. I had stumbled upon this place when searching through the ancient runs above me. When I say stumbled, I mean that quite literally. A large rock broke beneath me, and I fell down a hole. Luckily, it was quite a sloped hole, and the edges had eroded away over the centuries. Whatever trap, or function it was meant to fulfill had long since been forgotten to the annals of time. What lay at the bottom, however, was too interesting to just let go. I have to say, my curiosity got the better of me. I am an old Elf at this point; I’ve lived over three thousand years. What’s a little risk now and then going to do? Cut my lifespan short? Short I suppose would be a relative term there, but you get the point. Seeing as I am not dead, much to your chagrin, what I found at the bottom of that hole must not have been deadly at all! No. what I found was a massive hoard of jewels, gold, and other assorted fineries. Most of them rotted to dust at this point, but the precious metals were still very much intact. The cavern that held this hoard of valuables was immense. It had to be a whole king’s stride in diameter! There was a massive chasm at the far end, too black and perilous to see down, and there were a few massive statues, holding secrets of the past that one might never know! Ah, but you’re probably not interested in such things, are you? No, you adventurer-mercenary types never are. Very well I will return to the point. So there I was, searching through the old artifacts, trying to find something worth putting in my library, when I stumbled upon a marvelous piece! It was a pure gold and mithril oil lamp. It shown like a star in this bleak place, almost as if it cast its own radiance! It seemed to just have been a decorative piece, as its spout was not hollow like one would expect. I carefully lifted it off of its pedestal, checking first for any traps. After attempting to clean its inlays with my handkerchief, to get a better look at its inscriptions, something I did not expect happened. Smoke began billowing forth from its solid spout as if it were not filled in with metal, but hollow as the bones in a bird. An enormous presence became known to my senses, as I dropped the obviously cursed object and began to prepare for combat. Luckily for me, the object’s curse was not targeted at me, but at the being inside. You see, that object held within its depths a Djinn. The Djinn are a curious sort, most of them are simply monstrously powerful, but blisteringly average people. They can usually be found in isolated places, as their long lifespans make finding friends difficult for them. That’s your average Djinn though. There are many varieties of them, and some are not as decent as those folk. A long time ago, during the ages when gods roamed the planes of mortals freely, one of The Menace cursed a group of Djinn. They took over their bodies, their minds, and their spirits. The curse wiped away any individuality that these Djinn had, and replaced it with their own. They were truly a horrible sort. What’s that? “Enough with the history lesson!” you say??? Fools! Your carelessness will be your undoing… but fine. Have it your way. This particular Djinn, to my arcane senses, obviously belonged to the group of Djinn that had been taken in this way. So I knew I could not trust its words. It began pontificating on the virtues of myself, trying to play up my ego. It even offered to be a “gracious host”, thinking it could snatch away my body and escape its prison. I did not give it the chance. I picked up the oil lamp, carried it to the chasm, and threw it. … … … “What? That’s it???” a particularly dim human said. “Yes that’s it you nitwit!” the old guild librarian yelled at him. “What do you want? A long drawn-out conversation with a body snatcher? I think not. I didn’t live to be thirty-one-hundred and four to throw away my life like it’s nothing.” “Well, I think it was the right decision personally. It’s okay Chet, we’ll find another way to get your wish.” the paladin of their party said, trying to placate the young mercenary. “Lorielle is right man, you’ll get a chance someday; try to stay strong.” the rouge behind them said, patting the man on his shoulders. “For what it’s worth, I’m sure there is research on the Wish spell in my library somewhere.” The old man said. “I will allow you a few free hours inside, for listening to this one’s story.” “Really?? Aw thanks for your help.” Chet said. … They would later be kicked out for drooling on one of the books.

Humans are fascinating creatures. They claim to be more righteous than the other, but one push on the right buttons will make them more sinful than a harlot. On Earth, the Supreme Ruler of Hell roams the land, searching for a man or woman to tempt. Violet eyes that shine like amethysts gaze upon the neighborhood, sensing any negative energy to intensify.    The Devil surveys the people jogging along the sidewalks and the dogs sniffing every grass strand they come across. An Aspin meets the demon’s gaze, then it growls and barks loudly. The dog attempts to gain attention from the passersby, but no one came to investigate the root of the bark. The demon smirks and ignores the hound, continuing his search.    Until the Devil halts.   The demon stares at the bungalow, with ivy vines climbing on the grey walls. Dry leaves scatter around the weedy land, and the Devil could see various insects living among the grass. However, the aura of the house is not of interest, it is the languid energy inside. The demon enters the abode with silent steps and is greeted by the dim living area.    The dust lays like gloomy snow on the wooden floor. If a human were to walk inside the place, they would have coughed and smelled the musty dampness of the home. The entity floats, searching for the source of the negative aura until it reaches the kitchen.    A scrawny boy with brown hair and tan yet pale, sweaty skin is tying a Hangman’s knot on the kitchen counter. His hands shake as it forces itself to move, and the demon could see the bruises on the forearms of the boy.    A grin contorts the Devil’s face as it floats closer to the adolescent, soundless and unnoticeable. Once near, the entity whispers in a soothing yet malevolent voice.   “Lucas.”   The boy stiffens, squinting his hazel eyes in confusion, “Who…?”   The entity moves closer to his ear, "I am you, Lucas. I am your mind, your soul, your desires. And, I can see you are suffering."   Lucas’ hazel  eyes gaze down to the half-done noose and he sighs, “I am.”   "Then, you must be willing to end your suffering right here, right now, am I wrong?"   “No.”   “Well, what are you waiting for? Do it,” the Devil takes its monstrous hands out of its black, misty cloak and places them closer to the boy’s hands, inching closer and closer to the adolescent’s bony and slender fingers.   However, without a word, Lucas undoes the knot.   The Devil retracts his hand, and a frown replaces his grin, "Why did you stop tying the knot?"   Lucas gulps and says, “I- I haven't talked to anyone like this before. It's new."   The Devil starts to move away from the human, and its violet eyes narrow in confusion. It mutters, "Excuse me?"   "If you are in my head, then, why are you right beside me?"   The demon jumps back and floats to the archway separating the living area and kitchen, its instincts telling it to flee from its failed temptation.   “W-Wait, don’t go!”   The Devil stops in its tracks and looks back at the boy, who has his arm outstretched, “Why not?”   Lucas looks in his direction and searches the darkness, his hazel eyes squinting, attempting to find the entity’s black cloak.   “I just don't want you to... Please?" the boy pleads.   The request renders the Devil silent, his mind debating with itself on whether or not to fulfill the boy’s plea. Then, he comes to a decision.   The entity appears out of the dark. The brunette’s eyes widen as he is greeted with something inhuman. The Devil’s head and legs are of a goat’s and it has a human torso.  Its claws are long and sharp, and large demon wings enveloped its body with black bones and wine-colored wing membranes.   The demon smirks as it sees Lucas’ wide eyes and asks with a haughty tone, “Are you scared, human?”   "Is that your real form?"    The demon’s smirk wipes off its face. Lucas’ head tilts, his eyebrow raised.   “I have many forms, human,” the entity answers with a tinge of annoyance in its voice.   “May I see some of them?” Lucas asks.   The demon contemplates the request. But, it shakes its head, “No, not now.”   “Why?” Lucas frowns at the rejection.   “It is not appropriate.”   Lucas nods slowly, then gives a small, yet weak smile, "Can you at least show me your human form? If you have one?"   The Devil stays silent.    “Please?” Lucas gazes up at him with a  shine that glints, despite the dead realm that lies behind it.   The both of them stare at each other. Until the demon sighs.   “Fine.”   A black shroud envelops the demon, and Lucas backs away with a hand in front. The dust surrounds the entity as the smoke spins around its body. Lucas gulps as he watches the dark smoke clear, however, his worry dissipates. Instead of an anthropomorphic goat, it is replaced by a man with horns and black demon wings, who loomed over the boy like a Baobab tree. He dons a sleek black suit and purple tie, and his posture is one of high status.   The Devil’s cold and deep violet eyes pierce through  Lucas’ soul. Yet, the boy smiles at him and gestures to the couch in the living area.   “Let us sit there, Mister.”   The Devil looks in the direction Lucas is pointing and shakes his head.   “Please? There are no bugs in it,” Lucas walks to the seat and wipes the dust away with his hand, then sits down.   The demon stares at him, before exhaling, exasperated. The Devil walks to the couch and flumps on it, maintaining distance between him and Lucas.    The boy pays no heed and asks, "Uhm, may I know your name?"   “I have many names, but,” the demon purses his lips together, then crosses his arms, “You can call me Lucifer.”   Lucas blinks and clears his throat, “Th-The Supreme Ruler of Hell?”   Lucifer nods, his violet eyes avoiding eye contact with the human.    “Oh, so,” Lucas pauses, before looking away, “You were trying to tempt me to commit suicide earlier?”   “I must tempt people to turn them into sinners so I can punish them in hell.”   Lucas sighs, "Oh well, it doesn't matter if I commit suicide or not. I'm slowly dying of leukemia."   Lucifer raises an eyebrow, and his eyes meet with Lucas’ dejected ones. He questions, "Leukemia? Why are you not being treated?"   "I don't have the money,” Lucas’ hands balls into fists. “My family abandoned me in this house because they think my disease isn't worth spending on.”   They are going to hell for that, Lucifer thinks as a frown forms on his pale face.    "So, I have been stuck here, hungry and thirsty, and decided to just,” Lucas’ voice starts to crack, and he begins to choke on his words, “I decided to... or attempted to..."   Lucifer hears a small sniffle, so he squints his eyes and moves closer to the human. But, he stops as he sees tears fall on the teen’s fists.   "I lost hope. My cancer is currently at stage 2, and I'm afraid my immune system isn't helping me. I feel so weak, sick, and pathetic,” Lucas breathes out.   Lucifer swallows. Should I tempt this boy, or prolong his suffering? What is the most viable option here?     "And then, I remembered that... Grandma told me to pray for my guardian angel if I'm feeling lonely or despairing, so I prayed. But,  they didn't come.”   Lucifer almost grins from glee at the boy’s distrust in the angels. He shall prolong this boy’s suffering.   "Being holed up in this house... I wanted to end it. That's why I... I..." Lucas could not prevent a sob from escaping, covering his eyes as he finally releases his bottled-up emotions.   Lucifer sighs and moves beside him. He asks the boy, "Do you wish to die now?”   Lucas swallows his tears down and coughs. Then, he shakes his head, "No. I don't want to, yet."   “Why?” Lucifer questions.   "Because I finally had... someone to talk to."   Lucifer furrows his eyebrows, "But I'm the Devil. The Ruler of Evil. I  tempted you to kill yourself earlier,” he shakes his head in disbelief. “How could you possibly think that I am someone you should be talking to?”   The brunette pauses, before replying, "I honestly don't know. I guess I'm just relieved that at least someone came here."   The demon cannot stop the incredulous stare directed at the child. His eye twitches as he could not tell if this kid is naive or stupid.   “Seriously?”   “Yes.”   Lucifer’s eyes attempt to detect any lie in the boy’s tone or expression, but could not find any sign. He groans and pinches the bridge of his nose.    "Fine. I will stay."   Suddenly, Lucifer’s form begins to change.    Lucas gasps and stares as the demon’s face morphs into one of a skull of a bull. His horns grow and his mouth starts to ooze with a black viscous liquid, and his eyes start to melt. What makes Lucas shiver was not the monstrous appearance of the Devil. No, it is the voice that came from him.   Lucifer’s voice echoes across the whole house, almost like the cries of a thousand souls in hellfire, begging for mercy and freedom.   “I will stay here to torment you, and you will wish you were never alive.”  

Poke Poke Poke Various Tamano's were poking the face down albino's tails. Said tails were barely twitching. "What happened to her?" A black haired Tamano asked a green haired Tamano. They were watching the barely twitching Zaria as she was lying face down on the lap of an extra fluffy Tamano with burgundy hair. "Chocolate overdose and poisoning." The green tailed Tamano responded. A blonde Tamano with white ear tips and tail tips looked at Zaria. "That is even possible for her?" Several Tamano's pointed towards a large hill in the background. """"""That is not a hill, well not one we made."""""" A blue haired Tamano pointed. "I found my chocolate." The ones that had left after the chocolate exchange and had returned now were shocked. That 'hill' was a 'hill of chocolates'. "Let me guess, she insisted on trying a bit of every chocolate she exchanged?" A brown tailed Tamano huffed. "It is these annoyingly sweet things she does that is so very her. I received almond chocolate." "Chilli" "Apple" "Chocolate cookies" "Bitter" "Plain white~" "Triple nut" "Wine" "Rum" … Every one of them got a different chocolate. "Where did the others come from?" One Tamano with grey tails asked. "Various gods, her lovers, friends, aspects, mortal friends, and her eternal loves." The Tamano's looked at the hill then at the downed floof. "I think this is the last time we are synching Valentine's Day across all worlds." There were a lot of agreeing nods. "Zaria~" A fluffy, even for Tamano standards, Tamano with an older sister and caring aura around her brought a cup of steaming herbal tea. "I made a strong tea for you, it should soothe your stomach." The white floof twitched. The fluffy Tamano whose lap was occupied, pulled the near comatose albino up. "I think if she weren't immortal, she would be dead from chocolate poisoning." "I am immortal, and I'm sure that tasting every single chocolate would have killed me several times." There was a lot of agreement from the watching Tamanos. "Has anyone seen Yuki?" A dark blue haired Tamano asked. "I think she escaped before midnight, and probably won't be back until after midnight." "Smart fox." "Very." "Still sweet that Zaria did not escape." "Anyone know how many chocolates are in that hill?" "I stopped counting at one million." "Did Zaria really exchange over a million chocolates? Wait, why am I asking, it is Zaria." "Actually I know a recipe for cookies that should work well, nice herbal cookies." "I have a bottle of stomach medicine a god of alchemy made." The various Tamano's dispersed to fetch anything that could help with chocolate overdose and poisoning. Several Saints and doctors, healers, alchemists, pharmacists, and witches found themselves facing goddesses who were asking for antidotes to chocolate poisoning. --- A Few Days Ago --- Zaria frowned. The Tamano's wanted to enact a Valentine's day, and sync all worlds time wise for it. That was doable, but a major pain. Still it was doable. However, that meant she needed a lot of chocolate, and that now. Moving outside of time and multiplying herself Zaria faced herself. "Brainstorming. Naturally all the Tamas. Then our waifus, who already started making chocolates in preparation for Valentine's Day. Then friendly goddesses in the involved worlds. Then the female Aspects we get along with well. Anyone else?" "The various succubi and angels we are friendly with?" Another Zaria pondered aloud. "In that case we should not forget our fey friends, remember to make an extra large one for Mrr'am." "The feline goddesses and other fluffy ones." "The list is getting pretty large." "Stomach medicine." "Taste Restoration medicine." "We need a place to put it all." "I'll make some space on the food planet." "I feel like we are forgetting something." "Yuki!" "She escaped." The Zaria's slumped. "Now we have to taste test myself." The Zaria's nodded at each other and marched off to make lists, start preparing, and various other chores. The battle had started. --- Present, if that even applies to timeless space outside of reality --- It took a few hours for Zaria to become coherent. "I had a weird dream. I was being buried by an avalanche of chocolates." All the Tamano's pointed behind Zaria. The albino looked. A hill made from chocolates stood proudly. "We did not think this through." Zaria admitted. "I have no idea when I am supposed to finish that off." A Tamano placed a hand on Zaria's shoulder. "You are forgetting White Day return gifts." Seeing an albino pale was supposed to be impossible. Zaria managed. LazyFloof I know a lot of authors write sweet romantic Valentine snippets, chapters, or stories. I decided to go the funny and extreme route. Hope you had a laugh and a sweet Valentine~ Poll: What do you like in Valentine chapters, stories, snippets, scenes?1: The Chocolate2: The Sweetness3: The Romance4: The Awkwardness of fresh Lovers.5: The Closeness7: The successful Confessions8: The failed Confessions9: The Valentine's Dates10: Nothing11: Dislike them12: Not interested in Topic

Dedicated to tough heroes and webwriters Tough Choice "A man..." I started. "A man?!" bursted out SShmurr in excitement. "Your story is going to be about a man? How unusual!" All his eyes were brimming with purple light, some of them turning happy red. "Er... It's not such a big deal. Half of our planet's population are men," Me, being a proud soul, wouldn't accept praises undeserved. SShmurr dimmed and plopped his whiskered head on my paper in disappointment, an easy-to-do motion with him occupying leisurely my whole desk. "Then, what would the other half be?" he asked, obviously just being nice, bearing little expectation for such a shithole. "Those are actually women." I knew he wouldn't like the situation. It was even worse than he'd thought. "You are saying some of you are men and others are wo-men, which is very much the same as I see it. Don't take it to heart, I'm just summarizing." Looking at devastated Sshmurr I didn't have the nerve to tell him we can't even levitate and radiate multicolored rays. (Sshmurr, murmurs gloomily:) - Why would you do such a thing? Why would you write about somebody so boring?.. Why wouldn't you write a story about somebody magnificent like... me instead? (Me:) - You? What are you by the way? Sshmurr rolled on my desk playfully making mobile chargers, pens and spectacles fall down like spring rain on the floor with melodious thumps and clinging. (Sshmurr, coquettishly:) - What do you think? (Me, sincerely:) - Hm. A hallucination? You can definitely recognize a bad answer when your cellular hits the ground and acquires a granny-willow-from-Pocahontas-looking crack across the screen. For Sshmurr, unhappy is very much the same as evil. (Sshmurr, unhappy:) - F-f-f-f! A muse! I'm a muse! Can't you tell?! Despite Sshmurr's gorgeous blue-and-orange-and-octarine fur and his iguana-like snout, for some short time I couldn't, but seeing my 10' PocketBook crawl towards the edge to join the cellular, in an instance, could. (Sshmurr, scornfully:) - Writers! (keeps sulking) ...pathetic... writes about men... doesn’t write about magnificent ones… (Me:) - You see, it's not about who, it's about tough choices, despair and sacrifice, life and death problems. Important stuff, you know. "And then what?" my muse asked without excessive interest. "Are you going to walk barefooted but hopeful from town to town telling your story at markets and pubs? Will anybody listen and pay?" (Me:) - ... Mda... (Me:) - That's not how we do it here. I will publish it on a website among thousands of other novels, where nobody will read it, and start writing the next part. Meanwhile I'll waste a tremendous amount of time promoting my publications at social nets and conferences where no one gives a damn. To say nothing of writers' communities where millions of graphomaniacs gather in forlorn hope to make other graphomaniacs read their opuses. Babam! That was Sshmurr, shock-stricken, having followed the cellphone all the way down to the floor. "What the f-f-f-f?!" he asked in disbelief without even paying attention to his suddenly shifted vertical position. (Me, afraid and startled:) - Have you hurt... Sshmurr was struggling to get his elegant and yet well-fed body back on the desktop using the unlucky drawers as stairs and the floor - as a renewable starting point. Now my desk was harmonious fengshui: a mess inside as much as outside. (Me:) - Have you... (looking around to esteem the damage) I feel like I hope you have... Oh, anyways. My character dies in the end, you know, sacrifice and all, so most likely those teenagers and housewives wouldn’t really care... "Why would you..." - started Sshmurr again but interrupted himself and took my face in his two first paws. (Sshmurr:) - You know what? You and your character, that boring man... I really sense big problems, sister. Dunna know about life and death, more like the head and brain... He took some time to find good words for me. (Sshmurr, cordially:) - Do not write anything... ever again. (Me:) - ?.. (Sshmurr:) - Better... rub my belly! (Sshmurr:) - ... and keep drinking from that bottle for me to never disappear. Now, that was a tough choice indeed: to continue as a web-writer exploring life and death problems in my masterpieces or to rub Sshmurr's belly. Still, there remained one unsolved matter. (Me:) - But who will praise me for being a good writer in the comments? At least once a year? (Sshmurr, already on his back, readily:) - You are a good writer!.. Purrr... Yeah, so good... a bit lower, please. (Me:) - Say that again. (Sshmurr, happy and relaxed:) - Next year. THE END    

I woke up early, my father was sleeping next to me, breathing heavily and snoring. Clean up, remove the dirt and night sweats, and wash my face with cold water. No matter how much clean magic makes you beautiful, it is hard to change the refreshing feeling of waking up in the morning to washing your face with cold water. I ate the leftover bread and washed it with water, then ran to the market to help get the store ready. A store carefully arranges the products in the stall, cleans the surrounding area, and receives five iron coins of 500 dala. The next help is to load the luggage on the cart. Take it from the warehouse to the store, earn $500, and the morning's work is over. I wash the dirt off my work, clean up, and go to church. Once a month, those who turn 15 gather in a church and receive magic from the creator god, Elmart. Born in July, I turned 15 this month, so I came to the church to receive the ceremony. Dozens of well-dressed boys and girls of the same age, accompanied by their parents, are sitting around them with anxious faces. Not everyone is gifted with magic. Basically, it is said that those who cannot use life magic have no magical ability. Yes, I am here because life magic manifested itself when I was 9 years old. The priest goes up to the altar and prays to the statue of Elmart, the god of creation. If a person whose name is called offers a prayer to the god Elmart in front of the priest, he will receive magic. Those who have received magic place their hands on the magic board next to them to measure their magic power. Everyone is called by the priest and offers a prayer to the Elmart statue. If there are people who receive more than one magic, they will be told that they have no magic. Those who received magic and were told that the magic power was 100 or 120 in magic measures were very happy. People who were told they had 70 or 60 in magic power are disappointed, but they can still use magic, so they quickly go home. He calls himself Kaito and goes in front of the priest and prays to God Elmart. I knew that I had received magic by the feeling that light was overflowing in my head. "Kite, thanks to the divine protection of God Elmart, I have received earth magic, teleportation magic, and space storage magic." Place your hand on the magic board as the atmosphere becomes noisy. "Kite's magic power is 40, so don't be discouraged and work hard." "Yes, thank you, Dad." Disappointed, he leaves the church and walks home, only to hear laughter and absolute disdain behind him. According to him, it is a shame that he has given away so much magic and has a high magic power of 40. Or why is it a waste to have magic power of 40? "Hey kid wait!" "Yeah, is that me?" "I am the lord's deputy witness. It's the space transfer and storage magic you received, but if you have a high magic power of 40 and have a chance, the lord will take care of you. It was Kaito, Hamawaru in March. Go to the service entrance of the Viscount's mansion and give your name. "Yes, I understand." "OK, come on!" Ah, I got caught by a troublesome guy. Even I know that the magic power of 40 is considered a bad name for a mage, or the endless uselessness of a mage. I can't stay without going, this is no time for puns. Should I go home and figure out what to do next? When I get home, my father has been drinking and taking a nap since early afternoon. "Are you home or did you get magic?" "Oh, I get it. But it's a high magic power of 40." "Haah, you're a useless kid at 40. My wife will die quickly and the boy will be useless." "That's because my parents are my parents. What did you expect from me, who was born under my parents who would even swallow the cost of my mother's medicine?" "Don't worry!" A glass flew at me, but I ignored it and got ready to go to the market. If you help clean three houses at night, it will be 1,500 dallas. If you can't let your parents feed you, you have to earn and eat yourself. I couldn't afford to pay for medicine with my son's income, so I could barely earn money to buy food for both of us. After my mother passed away, my father and I lived in vain. It makes me sigh that I was born into a world I don't like, but I never thought I would be born into a world like a light novel where magic exists. I didn't even know that I had died, My shame was scraped away. Imagine being put in a diaper and peeing and peeing, with your legs wide open, and hearing, "Oh, you have a bunch of poop, let's clean it up." Even if I tried to hang myself, I couldn't even crawl. His name is Takuya Tohno, and I don't know when he died. I remember him being Japanese and living in a big city, but I don't know the name or location of the city. I vaguely remember things like my friends and work, but it is vague. Like driving a car, the contents of the books I read, I enjoyed camping, and the beer I drank while looking into the fire was delicious. Tomorrow, after helping at the market in the morning, I decided to try the magic I received when I went out to collect herbs. When he was 9 years old, the magic of life manifested, and he was able to use it freely after being taught by his mother. I never stopped practicing manipulating magic for when I received magic. I was surprised that the knowledge from the light novel was so useful, but I can't get out of poverty unless I use what I can. The people of this world didn't know magic manipulation. I knew that there are rare people who can increase their magic power if they use magic. But what is a high magic power of 40, what was five and a half years of training in magical manipulation? I want to complain to God, but I've never seen it. But I think it exists because I was born into this world and received magic. Since I was given magic, I was going to try a method to use magic power to increase magic power, If you really increase your magic power, you will end up being tamed by a rural aristocrat. After helping at the morning market, I tied the bag of medicinal herbs into a small backpack. I bought two pieces of meat sandwiched between bread at a stall where adventurers would pass by, put them in a bag of medicinal herbs, and leave town. I don't get many medicinal herbs today, but I am going to an unpopular place where goblins and beasts don't come. I tried to make a spearhead with earth magic on the way. 5 1/2 years of delusions... make full use of images and add magic to images, light novels. The tip of the spear made with magic for the first time in my life is distorted, but it is certain that I can use earth magic. The shape of the finished spear is adjusted and the base is turned into a cylinder. The way it is, it can't make a short sword, but if you insert a rod into the cylinder, it will become a hand spear. There was no change in my physical condition. There are no people around, and no horned rabbit or goblin wolf can be seen. Lie on the ground and stretch your limbs to make marks, then open your hands to make marks. Thinking it was too big, draw a smaller line. First, the surrounding ground is slowly stretched into a thin plate and the top is squeezed closed. I am just physically tired and want to rest for a while. Hit the wall with a hammer made with earth magic, leaving a round hammer mark. I thought that was the case, but soon realized that I had failed, I created a hammer with the image of an iron head and a handle that I could support. The dome was made of clay with the image of a kamaboko shaped tent, with no resistance. Magic power flowed into the dome complete with the hard iron image, and when I struck it again with the hammer, it made a loud sound and the hammer bounced back. I fell asleep and dozed off, and when I woke up, it was pitch black. I turned on the magical light of life on the ceiling, widened the cramped dome a bit, and decided to make this my first base for practicing magic. If you pour in magic power little by little each time and increase the width and strength, you can create a safe perch. When I marked the construction of the dome, I gathered dry grass and spread it on the spot where I lay, but it was not enough and my butt hurt. I decided that my first job tomorrow morning would be to cut the surrounding grass and make a grass bed. I had nothing to do, so I decided to try using space storage, but where is space storage? I couldn't understand even thinking about it, so I tried to circulate the magic power, but it's the same as always. If you can't figure it out by thinking about it, you just have to really try. I failed many times, but I put my arm around my waist and made a circle, imagining it as the opening of the space storage pouch. Magic power flowed into that image, and when I threw the ball, the ball disappeared. I struck a brave pose without meaning to, but before I forget the feeling, I made clay balls one after the other and threw them into the circle with my hands on my hips. Next time I have to take it off, but I think of taking it off with the feeling of touching an arm ring and pouring out magical power. I was surprised to find that I made 20 or more and played them. Next time I need to check the size. From 30 cm, it was possible to fit 60 cm, 90 cm and 120 cm without problems, but 150 cm and 140 cm was impossible. I realized that the 130 cm would fit somehow and it would take a while before I put a 30 cm ball as a test, and realized that it would be impossible to get more. It is strange that a large object could easily pass through the arm strap at the waist and be stored in the space. I was so tired that I decided to go to bed again and fell asleep as soon as I lay down.

These no exist.

00:30, Mount Everest It was cold and dark, yet a man was walking in the snow. Although people often went there for sightseeing, it was strange that he chose to go at night. Sometime later, he came across a small cabin on the way and went inside. It was a typical cabin that climbers could use to rest before continuing on their journey. The interior was old and dusty, like nobody visited the place for centuries. Well, that was true because a company decided to build an elevator all the way to the peak of this mount. So people started to use that lift instead of walking the rough and dangerous paths. As a result, all the stopping points, refilling stations, and such were abandoned and fell apart one by one. However, this single wood house was the only thing that stood through the years. The man opened a secret door on the wall. There was a tiny room with a metal trapdoor, looked with a password pad. He tried to enter the code, but the thing didn't respond, as if it was using its last breath to protect what was inside from the human. Sadly, the human wasn't a weak one. He just raised his leg and stomped on the door, resulting in a loud bang as it collapsed. The trapdoor led him down to an underground room, there was a ladder placed in the opening, but he ignored it and jumped. There was no light down there, so he used <Illuminate> to see. Some stuff was left covered in dust on the table, a piece of paper, a pen, an electric lamp, and a stove. He took the paper and leaned against the wall. It was a letter, written in English, from the most respected person in the Terran Union. Have to admit his handwritings are pretty neat, just like that of a student's. He thought. The notes read: 'To whoever is reading this, This is the first Supreme Leader of the Terran Union, Kegan Alica. Now you future people might think of me as the humans' hero, political genius, or something like that. But believe it or not, I used to be an ordinary office worker, everything from me leading the revolutionary army to become the Supreme Leader happened by chance. This is the story: It was a boring day at work until I realized that I had to pay the taxes. With some simple calculations, I knew that I didn't have enough money, and it was normal to see some Vahaians come and burn your house at that time if you couldn't pay. That's why I came up with an idea to use all of my savings and make a trip to Mt.Everest. Because of its location, the mountain turned out to be the best place to hide from the Vahaian. And so, I came to discover that governments of the former countries on Earth managed to survive and moved their base of operation to this mountain. That was some general information. After that, the US President welcomed me in to have some tea, do some paperwork, and there I got myself a private room at the refugee camp. The room was small, but it was cozy and definitely better than having it burned down while you sleep. Anyway, life was comfortable there if you can bear the temperature, and I had stayed there for a year when that event happened. One morning, I woke up and did my daily walk around the camp. Things were pretty fine until an earthquake took place. Luckily, no snow or rock slid down, but then trails of light appeared, and they radiated strange energy. A lot of people were anxious, and I was, too. But when I saw some of the world leaders followed the paths, I decided to go with them. The track led us to the mountain peak. It seemed that the same thing appeared on all sides of Everest, and they all assembled into a vast lake there. We somehow came to the decision that we would stay far from that thing, and our action was correct. Just a few moments later, the ground started to shake violently. We almost lost our balance and fell down the steep hill then… BOOM! A monstrous light column cracked open the land beneath that lake and shot straight to the sky. And you guessed, that was Mana, in its pure form. After that, I felt a part of the Mana rushed out from the pillar and entered my body. Then a semi-transparent screen appeared before my eyes. And you also guessed, it was the [status board]. A message was displayed: ⌈Unclaimed area discovered, proceeds to register as TK40's Overworld. A lot of lifeforms detected, proceeds to register all of them under the system. As the first subject to be registered in this area, you are granted the following benefits: Lvl automatically jumped to 10, every status is significantly boosted, every member of your race in this area will receive <Exp amplifier Lv1>, this includes already existed and future members. This is the Celestia system, pleased to make your acquaintance, Kegan Alica. It seems that your race is under heavy oppression. Therefore the system entrusts you with a mission: Lead the liberation of humans on Earth. On this occasion only, you're granted the ability to send direct messages towards every human on this planet. The permission expires when you complete the mission. Good luck!⌋ It took me… no, us 10 years to retake Earth from the Empire, and another 20 years to chase them out of the Solar system. After that, you probably know, but that's not the point I want to talk about here. The thing is, from what I've seen so far, there must be some people, or… some entities controlling the system, and they don't have good intentions. First, that message was in a new language, Celestian. Despite that, I and everyone who got registered right at that time understood it because of a skill that we are given, <erudite translator>. For this reason, I feel that the system is trying to take over our culture, not just us humans, but every race in the universe. And they are doing it by spreading everything from theirs. Fortunately, newborn babies don't have that skill, so they need to learn Celestian to understand it. That's why I used my position as the Supreme Leader to ban the act of teaching anything related to Celestia. I also developed a device to auto-translate Celestian to whatever language in any text a person sees. Take this example: This is a commonly used skill, fireball, written in English. But if I write it in Celestian, a '<>' will appear: <fireball>. Yes, you'd notice that the word is still in English if you have the [CTL] in one of your equipment slots 1Yes, you readers have the [CTL] equipped, too. Aside from that, we also discovered that Mana travels much faster than light. From that spot on Everest, it filled the entire universe in just 5 seconds. I don't know how we can utilize the speed yet. Maybe it'll come in handy for you future humans. Well, I've written quite a lot already, and I noticed that I have the <Under surveillance> status. Maybe my thought is spot-on, and the system doesn't want me to reveal their secrets, so here's my final message: Be careful.' The man stood there for a bit. "This person… I can't believe he let this thing slip away." He mumbled. "Well, Kegan. I do respect you, your actions were smart and decisive, but you didn't care enough for your family, this makes me a bit uncomfortable. Ah wait… I'm talking to myself again…." As he exited the scene, he used <fire sparks> to burn the letter. ⌈No concrete evidence against the system found. <Under surveillance> removed from status.⌋ Was written on his [status board]. "I miss the old system voice…."

"So what will you do now? It's not like you're burdened by that leech you considered a girlfriend anymore." A voice sounded wry in his ears as James stared at the back of the girl he thought he loved walked away after he found he had cheated on him. "Who are you?" Even though he no longer held any good feelings to that girl, she was once his world, hearing someone saying he didn't have good eyes was annoying after dealing with his break-up so suddenly. "Me? You can call me A. And please don't put up a front, it's not like you actually feel any animosity towards me for calling her a leech. In fact, you don't even care that she did what she did because you don't care about her at all either." "Are you inside my head?" Noah didn't immediately refute, but asked the person who had somehow appeared besides him looking at his ex girlfriend's back with a smile. "No need to ascertain whether or not I am because even if I say no, then you'll just insist that you care. Noah, it isn't wrong to think this way, but you will live a life that you will dislike if nothing else." A said with a sigh. "I apologize for not being a model citizen, I'll find a good wife and have three kids in repentance." Noah while understanding that A was most likely not human, or anything he could resist, he didn't have to pretend or act like he cared which was refreshing. "Your sarcasm is terrible. Why would I want you to muddle around doing something as uninteresting as that? You and I both know your calling and interests lie elsewhere." A said and pointed at Noah and Noah blinked as he realized something. Even though he was looking at A, what he saw wasn't a person so much as a figure with the vague outlines that had no actual form. Yet for some reason, he couldn't and didn't realize until A pointed at him. "What do you want? If it's to be another world's hero, I refuse. I'd rather be the villain." Noah didn't hesitate to throw his wishes at A who rubbed their temples, or made the gesture as Noah wasn't sure what, it was very confusingtk watch. "No, we both know you don't have the qualities of a hero. Instead of embarking on such a worthless endeavor, I've found a role that will suit you quite well." A said and waited for Noah to digest their words.  "Then what? I also don't want to end up having to do troublesome things, it's tiring." Noah said but A just waved a hand and his voice trailed off as he realized he couldn't speak anymore. He could breathe and feel his tongue, but words were impossible now. "There, although you're not being very nice, I'll just ignore that. I want you and several others from your world to go to a new one, not as Heroes, but Gods." Seeing the blank stare from Noah, A chuckled. "Unlike your world concept of God, Gods aren't omnipotent and omniscient, so you can still be defeated or even killed." A didn't seem bothered by the look accusing look Noah sent their way. "Of course, Gods cannot be killed easily. You will all possess Authorities you choose yourself and you will be assigned a Pantheon and a country. If your country falls, you lose. If your Pantheon falls, you lose." "But... Gods are strong and are only limited by opposing Pantheons. Knowing you, not what you're showing now as even the angry look you're giving me isn't your entire feelings, so I'll just give you incentives, okay?" A said with a relaxed tone. "First, I'll give you a second Authority of your choosing and a wish on top of the normal compensation the others will receive. The compensation is a wish within the bounds of the rules of course." A didn't say anything as Noah immediately said something that made them laugh. "Since you offered, I'll humbly accept the wishes. How many Authorities can a God hold?" If the results were an explosion or something unpleasant, Noah would have to pass this chance up. "Just ask, being compensation, I can at least make it doable." A said and then Noah deliberated for a moment and then made up his mind and then Noah nodded in acceptance. "I want my normal compensation to be an Authority and can I please see the list?" Noah saw A shudder slightly and saw their head turn his way with a strange atmosphere. "Look, I know you're trying to be sincere, but it doesn't suit you okay? Gods don't have to observe mortal traditions anyway. Here's the list." A didn't dwell on Noah's disgruntled expression and sent a list into his mind. "Authority of Stars, Darkness, Fate, and Dreams." Noah exchanged all his wishes and compensation for four Authorities. A didn't bother to confirm because they could feel Noah's confidence. "Then I'll grant you one more as is per normal. I wanted to give you Ice since I find it cool, but I decided on something else at the last moment. Are you ready to traverse?" A asked with excited clapping. "Sure? Will I break the balance with all my Authorities though?" While Noah didn't mind cheating in games and such, if he had to cross over, he didn't want any of his powers revoked halfway through. "I can assure you that regardless, you won't be penalized." When A affirmed, Noah nodded and the world turned into a mirage of colors and he found himself sitting on a white throne in a dark void dotted with motes of light all around. "Welcome to the Battle of the Gods. You have five Authorities which you will now receive. The Authority of Fate." A golden spark fused into Noah's body from A who stood before the throne. "The Authority of Dreams." A hazy spark with dark accents floated over and merged into Noah's body again. "The Authority of Darkness." A watched as a black dot, more like a hole in reality merged into Noah's body and then continued without hesitating much. "The Authority of Stars." Unlike the Darkness Authority, the space was brightly lit as millions of motes of light merged with Noah and vanished leaving A chuckling wryly. "When I said I wanted to give you Ice, it was true, but I randomized the selection and you happened to get an Authority you may not encounter anyone aside from yourself having." A said with a sigh. "The Authority of Eternity." A flash of light that made the entire space tremble occurred as a symbol representing Eternity forged itself into Noah's being, unlike merging like the others before, this one directly submitted itself to Noah, and also altered him greatly.

 Inside the basement where there's only a torch lighting it up, you can see a silhouette of a girl about the age in her late teens is chained up and naked. She's drooling yet dehydrated. Her left eye is missing because it was gouged out and swelled due to her endless crying. Her body is full of wounds, bruises, and scars. Her joints and limbs are also broken, and her healthy body is now skinny and dry. The shape of her private parts is disfigured and grotesque that even the most perverted person in the world would rather mate to a dog. "It's been almost two years now and still being stubborn and refusing to join our side... Are you perhaps still hoping that your little kingdom would immobilize some special troops just to save you? No that is just impossible!" Said the middle-aged-looking man while eating his breakfast in front of her, eating casually and enjoying the view because he is looking at the girl.  "Now that you can't use any of your limbs it's time for phase two hehehehe... hehe." He signaled the guards and the door of the basement opened, then someone entered is a person wearing a wizard's robe he is a sorcerer. However, his eyes are full of madness as if he is devoted and cannot achieve the goal of his life "Oh! Supreme Sorcerer Setarcos I would gladly offer you a rare specimen!" "Let me recognize her worth, it will take a while to examine her in that condition. Why did she end up like that anyway?.. It doesn't matter." [Appraisal] The sorcerer's staff glows and studied the girl's capabilities and the information available about her. "Hmm!!" "W-what is it Supreme Sorcerer!?" "She is a Saint candidate! This.. will be great! You! bring my apprentices! and order them to bring my tools and the heart!" "Me?" "Yes! You!" "As you wish." The middle-aged man bowed and left the room.  A moment later another four robed men came inside the basement. "We brought your precious tools master." Said the sorcerer's apprentice. "Great! Great! Now don't waste our precious time and start the ritual!" "Yes, master" The robed men started to draw their knives and stabbed their chests. While their chests are bleeding they started to chant thus the ritual has begun. "Uvuvuwevwevwe Onytswenwevue Ugunubwem Ossas" "Uvuvuwevwevwe Onytswenwevue Ugunubwem Ossas" "Uvuvuwevwevwe Onytswenwevue Ugunubwem Ossas" "Uvuvuwevwevwe Onytswenwevue Ugunubwem Ossas" The life of the robed apprentice sorcerers are drained, they collapsed on the floor like puppets whose strings had been cut and their blood formed a magic circle on the floor. The magic circle glowed dimly and ominously. Setarcos the Supreme Sorcerer immediately opened the small box. The small box opened and inside of it is a fist sized crimson flesh that's still beating. It's a heart of certain someone. Setarcos also drew a knife and aproached the the naked chained girl slowly. He grins and said. "This heart of the devil will corrupt your mind effortlessly and join our side" The girl's remaining eye widened, she didn't anticipated that a they could do such a thing to the point that they want to corrupt her just to join them. She needs to do something, she started to swallow her tongue and hold her breath. For almost two years she endured and hoped that her kingdom especially her loved ones will do something to save her but there are no signs of their movements instead she felt that they actually abandoned her. There are two Saint candidates after all and there can only be one Saint at the end of the day. 'I'll just end my life and sacrifice like a Saint would do I suppose. Gunther, I think you must find a new fiance for the better... She thought to herself. Her mind went black since she can't breath because she swallowed her tongue. This is the only thing can do in her current situation. The girl opened her eyes now she is lying on the floor with the dead sorcerer apprentices. She notice she's not chained up anymore and she's at the center of the magic circle made out of their blood. 'I didn't died? but I already swallowed my tongue to stop my breathing!' "It is not even clever to kill yourself in the middle of the ritual so I have to cut your tongue a little to make sure you woudn't die." In front of her is a handsome man about his late 20's standing before her, His hair is black with the hint of brown in it his skin is looks smooth like a girl's and white as a pearl.  It's true her tongue became a little shorter and the bleeding stopped already although her mouth is full of blood. "Now then, Setarcos continue the ritual open her chest and and replace her heart already make sure she would not do anything foolish." Standing beside the handsome man is the Supreme Sorcerer Setarcos he aproached the girl and hold her back gently and then he drew his knife that is ready to stab the girl. "NO-NO-NO-NO-NO, NO!" The girl cannot move her limbs she can only protest by shouting her refusal rapidly as if she's being chased by a horrible creature, but Setarcos continued to aim at the left side of her chest. "Wait-wait-wait-wait, Wai-- AAAAAAAAAK!" Setarcos stabbed her chest piercing her heart. He removed her own heart using his knife and his bare hands. The blood is gushing out from her left chest. When Setarcos removed the heart he replaced it with the heart of a devil and started chanting something in fast phase "Daldogmadom Dimsmadomdima Domdimsdaldo Dimadomdog Dimsdimadom!" The girl's chest opened wider that you can see her ribs and left lung where the heart used to be. She already passed out from shock and immense pain.  Meanwhile, the corrupted devil's heart started to connect to her blood vessels, pumping the stored blood of the original owner inside her body. "Setarcos quickly! apply the brainwashing spell to her now!" The handsome man ordered Setarcos. "Meind Kontrol!" The girl woke up from immense pain inside her head as if someone is forcing information inside her brain. "G-GUNTHER! PLEASE! HELP MEEEEEEE!" Meanwhile, the handsome man is watching her slowly being corrupted and enjoying her painful cries. "Kufufufuufu, I can finally have my Saint"

It’s been two months since the death of Professor Utonium, and it’s tough for the girls to move on. Each individual is grieving their own ways; Bubbles’ party all night, while Buttercup created a gang, and Blossom will try to live the best life as a civilian. The Powerpuff Girls are no more, leaving Townsville to defend themselves. Actually, Blossom created a defense that protects Townsville from any harm. The protection she offered was not the heart as a superhero but as a scientist. That’s all Blossom can do. The thought of using her power hurts. Townsville needs a symbol of justice and peace, which she believes isn’t suitable to carry that responsibility anymore. Without her sisters, she couldn’t continue being that symbol. The home of the Powerpuff Girls is left the same since the funeral. Buttercup and Bubbles are rarely home, only for Blossom to maintain the house’s beauty. On one specific night, Blossom couldn’t sleep. She lay on her back before kicking the blanket off, then headed into the kitchen and grabbed a glass of water. The noise outside got her attention, which she can describe being footsteps. It’s coming from the backyard. Blossom enters the dining area and walks toward the sliding door that leads to the backyard. She was about to open it when all of a sudden, the Rowdyruff Boys came to greet her, scaring her spine out. “Can you let us in? We’re hungry,” Butch said, knocking on the glass door. Blossom sighs while shaking her head annoyingly before letting them inside. The two younger Rowdyruff Boys rush inside then go straight to the kitchen cabin while Brick nonchalantly walks in to greet Blossom. The glare she’s giving made Brick uncomfortable. “Seriously? My home isn’t a charity.” Brick nervously laughs while saying, “Sorry, Red. When I mention that I’m checking on you, they quickly join me. It was meant to be a quick check.” “Oh… How sweet of you,” Blossom sarcastically said while sighing. “I told you a million times, I’m fine. Go back to Aku and deliver this message that I don’t want no one or anyone to bother me.” “But Red, I can’t do that. The life of your wellbeing is—” “—the salvation source of goodness toward the universe, while also the poison to all beings.” Blossom finished his sentence. “Uh…” Brick paused a bit, rethinking what Blossoms was saying. It took awhile for him to recollect what she was saying. “Close,” he nodded. “Not exactly what I intended to say, but close.” “It’s the same from whatever Aku told me. I know. You don’t have to remind me.” Through Blossom’s annoyance, she tries to leave, then stops when she gets the attention of the two younger Rowdyruff Boys eating habits. Butch snatched a cereal box from Boomer and chugged the whole thing in his mouth. “Are you serious?” Blossom muttered in shock. “You guys are eating like you haven’t eaten in days.” “You see,” Boomer muffled while there’s food in his mouth before swallowing it. “We don’t have real food. It’s more military base food in a can.” He then gushes a whole milk jug. “Ahhh… That hits the spot.” “Aku doesn’t eat?” “Aku? Hah! No way!” Butch laughed. “Judging from his size, you’ll think he’ll devour the whole universe, which he doesn’t. He’s missing all the great foods out there.” “Ugh, my head hurts seeing you, Rowdyruff Boys. I’m heading to bed,” Blossom groaned, walking up the stairs. Butch and Boomer pursued scavenging through the kitchen, while Brick is more focused on his counterpart. He could clearly see that Blossom hadn’t slept much in a day or two, especially those dark circles beneath her eyes. Blossom wasn’t what she used to be, and he hates it when she’s like this. ◆ ◆ ◆ A small portal opens in the sky, then a bright light spits into an unfortunate house, turning into a million pieces where a crater was formed. Came to check on the scene was the Angel of Death, Grim, who observed closely after a long night at the grocery store. Then something moves, which alarms him. Grim dropped his groceries and summoned his scythe within himself in defense. Nothing happened, no sign of an attack or anything. Slowly the foggy dirt died down, seeing more clearly, a massive ball of thick red liquid was moving as if it’s alive. It fumbled a bit, then started to take a form, successfully becoming an unconscious boy that’s either seven or ten. “Careful, Grim. I sense something evil, yet, goodness. It’s not from our dimension,” Judith, his scythe, warned through his conscience. Grim didn’t take action but watched, seeing its true nature before judging. When this ‘boy’ finished putting itself together, Grim went down and tapped on it at the end of his scythe. No reaction, only the sound of the boy breathing. There isn’t a threat coming from it, and leaving it wouldn’t be wise. The boy needs to go with him. Grim quickly grabs the groceries, drags the boy like a sack onto his shoulder, and then uses his scythe to open a portal. ◆ ◆ ◆ After coming from the former Powerpuff Girls resident, Brick and his brothers went their separate ways on the street. Brick needs to return and report to Aku about Blossom’s condition. He walks inside Aku’s throne room, where Brick is standing at a cliffside, waiting for Aku to emerge. Aku took his more giant form and arch over the leader of the Rowdyruff Boys. Aku smiled and said, “Ah, Brick. It’s great to see you. How’s Blossom?” “She’s fine but lacks sleeping,” Brick answered. “We may not know if her disheartening self will make her lose control. But I’ll keep a close eye on her.” Aku actually likes to hear the news but is concerned about Blossom’s health. Brick then added, “Blossom also told me to give you this message that she wants no visitors.” “Poor child must have been feeling ill since the death of her father,” Aku nodded, understanding Blossom’s wellbeing. “I’ll give her a week but do check on her, not directly.” “I will, Aku.” Brick bows then leave while Aku watches him disappear within sight. Aku returns to his fire pit then a deep sigh overcomes him. His form, his original form, won’t last long while both of his arms shake nonstop, forcing him to take his female self. Looking down at his own figure and seeing that he had gained more weight than usual. Aku doesn’t understand why women gain weight so heavily and why he felt weak after taking his original form. ◆ ◆ ◆ Boomer is being pulled by Butch to a random bar, which is loud, and he knows that it’s not those typical bars his brother would drag him into. An unpleasant foment caught his attention that Boomer covered his nose. Ladies, men, they all begin to look disgusting. Not physically, but the scent. Within second, Butch disappears. Boomer doesn’t care wherever he goes because he wants out, searching for the door but couldn’t locate it. The bar is dark and loud with lots of people. Boomer quickly and randomly moved through the crowd then got a hold of a door handle. Instantly, he opened it and entered. The odor seems to be lessened, and Boomer then can finally breathe normally. His eyes, too, got more clearer, and the room he’s in felt off-putting. There’s little light, and it's hard to see anything within a foot, making him jumpy at the littlest noise because he heard shuffling coming from the dark. Barely to make out who, but could see a figure sitting. “This room is already reserved.” Boomer flinches at the voice, coming from a feminine figure. It then stands up and approaches him very seductively as Boomer leans back on the door. Two hands slam both his sides, not letting him have anywhere to escape. “I’ll forgive you if… You could give me something of yours.” Boomer didn’t know what to say but blurted, “Bubbles?” The figure froze without answering anything. An inch closer, Boomer could make out that it’s the blue Powerpuff Girls. “It is you, Bubbles.” Bubbles clicked her tongue out of anger then grabbed his collar shirt, but Boomer got a hold of her hand. There’s tension between them while blue electricity rushes both their bodies, each voltage fighting against each other. Bubbles wants to be free while Boomer wouldn’t. I got inspired by a comic when Professor Utonium died, and the girls seemed distressed. This fanfic is based on my True Fanfics series, which I’m unsure if I will put in there. I want to write another fanfic instead of Pucca. I’m desperate.

So, I realised something today. Anime girls have high communication powers. Like, very high. You like to sleep naked? No problem. You are dating your teacher who is 3 times your age? No problem. You are a masochistic whore? No problem. Somehow, girls in anime can communicate anything. Not to mention they have a huge information network. So, I was thinking,  Wait! What if Anime girls aren't humans! So, I researched. Anime girls have breasts. And those breasts show the following propoerties. 1. They are 10kg (22 lbs) 2. They have 1m length as upper bust size 5. They have DD as a cup size 3. They float on water 4. They jiggle a lot. So, with help of a cup size calculator, I found that if you want a DD cup with 1 m as upper bust, you need 70 cm of underbust. Calculating the volume, and dividing the mass of 10 kg by the volume, we get a density of 1.4 g/cc. Density of water is 1g/cc Density of human breast is 0.7-0.9 g/cc Hence, it shouldn't be possible for anime breasts to float on water, yet they do. So, are anime girls not human? I researched on this more. But sadly, I couldn't find any research papers on female tiddies. Researchers seem to be more interested in effect of cancer on breasts, but no one recorded the behaviour of normal breasts. Until I found them. Amit Gefena and Benny Dilmoney They say, and I quote "Surprisingly, there are no data in the literature regarding mechanical loads on the breast tissues during daily or sport activities, and there are no coherent sources of data in regard to mechanical properties of the breast tissues" These two are disappointed that they could not experiment on a live human fun ball. They have shown this disappointment multiple times in their paper, Mechanics of the normal woman’s breast Since they didn't have a live female boob, they had to take many approximations. The poisson's constant of boobies is assumed to be about 0. This means if I poke at a milk bag, it will not spread, but rather just sink like a dough. They also assumed that those valleys are collagen rich and don't have much water in them. With age, water fills up, making those tanks softer and softer. They also assumed that while jiggling, a badonka has no displacement in horizontal axis. Which means, they assumed that jiggle only occurs up and down, and balloons cannot be stretched horizontally. I was happy, seeing that I have answer to my question. But... While these two have meticulously recorded things like the Young's Modulus, the tensile strength, internal forces and external forces applied on a tanker in different positions,  Yes, they have told us how much they jiggle while doing different activities, and yes, they have told us that they jiggle the most while jumping, often reaching to 15 Newton of force. Yes, they have told us that resting on back is the most comfortable position. But.. But.. Same is true for anime girls! .. .. Anime girls also follow these laws. Down to the last calculation, anime girls follow it. Damn! .. .. Was my hardship, all for naught? Suddenly I realized something. The approximations. If Anime girls somehow got hold of this document, it is obvious they would try to copy it. But, since they are stupid, they will also copy the approximations. As we know, if we squeeze a real boob, it spreads.  But the paper assumed it doesn't spread. And we see so in anime as well! If I squeeze an anime boob, it gets squeezed! It doesn't spread, it just compresses like a sponge! The paper assumed that booba is liquid in nature. And so are anime boobies! There is also another variable that anime girls couldn't count. Ligaments joining the breasts to the chest. In normal humans, they are irregularly placed, which is why every boob is different. However! In anime, all boobs look the same!! Hence, we can conclude that anime girls are not human, they are a parasite pretending to be human.

** Hope you enjoy! -Littlewing** A new world, fresh, clean,nothing abnormal.  Steve is laughing with Alex. They head to the village with the small supplies that they have. Greet the villagers, trade, harvest some meat and different supplies. Alex finds a chest with an iron sword. Alex: Steve! Steve: Yeah? Alex: Look what I found! Alex runs out of the villager's home weilding the iron sword. Alex: Check it out. Isn't it cool? Steve: Alex . . .  Alex: What's wrong? Alex looks up from the shiny new weapon to look at a terrified Steve. Steve: We have to leave! Now! Alex: But we just got here!  Steve: No time for questions, run!  As Steve began to runaway from the village Alex glances back. A strange creature that looks almost exactly like Steve is standing there with their head bowed. Alex: Steve, come back! It's just a fellow player. Alex looks back and sees that Steve has already left.  ???: Where is Steve The player speaks. Alex: Hi,I'm Alex! What's your name? ???: Where is Steve  Alex: Steve? ???: Where. Is. Steve?! The player's head snaps up and Alex sees the horror. A face exactly like Steve's but with pure glowing white eyes.  Alex: Who are you?! Steve: Alex! Run!  Alex looks and sees Steve has returned. She bolts towards him just as lightning strikes where she had been. She and Steve bolt through the forest until they were far deep into it. Alex: Who was that?! Steve heaved in a breath but didn't answer. Alex: Steve, who was that?! They looked exactly like you but . . . But their eyes were . . . White. Steve: I know, Alex. Alex: Have you seen him before? Who is he? Why was he asking for you? Steve: It doesn't matter. All that matters is that he's dangerous. Alex: No Steve. It does matter. Tell me! Steve: Fine. Yes, I've seen him before. He was asking for me because he wanted to talk to me, since we're kind of rivals. Alex: And who is he? Steve: His name is . . . Herobrine. ******* Alex: Herobrine?! Suddenly Alex jumps back and runs into a tree, knocking herself over. She glances at Steve, Alex: But I thought he was just a myth. Steve: Well sometimes, myths are true. Alex: But normally they aren't! There's no way that's him. It's gotta be some kid playing a prank or something! Steve: No Alex. I'm afraid he's real.  Alex: Have you seen him before? Steve just looked at Alex then at the floor. Alex: You have, haven't you? Why didn't you tell me?! Steve: I didn't wanna worry you! Alex: Well it's too late for that now! It would have been better if I had known he was here rather than nearly getting killed! Steve: I didn't think he'd go after you! Alex: Well he did!   Steve: Clearly! Alex stares hard at Steve before taking out her new sword, Alex: I'm going back. Steve: What?! Alex: I'm going to confront him. Steve: No! Alex, he's dangerous! Alex: I know he is, but I'm going to find out what he wants! Steve: You really think that's our best option? Alex: Our option? No. This is MY best option Steve.  Alex turned and began to run Steve: Alex, wait! Alex didn't slow, if anything she went faster. Alex: I will find you Herobrine! As Alex reached the village she stopped dead in her tracks. The entire place was in shreds. The buildings were burning, a clump of iron ingots and a poppy showed that the iron golem had been killed, only one villager remained and he seemed to be severely damaged, the pens of animals were empty and the animal's loot was on the ground. Alex ran up to the villager. Alex: What happened?! *HURR* Alex: Stupid NPC. Can't tell me anything! Alex began searching the wrecked village. There was nothing. Alex: Did Herobrine do this? ???: Yes. Alex spun around and was face to face with the myth himself. Alex: Herobrine?! You're . . . You're actually real?! Herobrine: Yes Alex, yes I am. Alex: And you did this? Herobrine: Why, yes of course! Who else would be able to make this much destruction? Alex: But why?! What did this village ever do to you? Herobrine: It got in the way. Like you. Alex: In the way? In the way of what? Herobrine: Getting my revenge on Steve. Alex: Steve? What did he do? Herobrine: He took my entire life away from me! Friends, family, my entire dignity! Everyone was all caught up with Steve that they even ignored my existence! SO NOW IS MY TIME TO TAKE HIS LIFE! Starting with YOU. Alex: What are you gonna do? Alex slowly shrank back from the beast. Herobrine: You'll see. Alex couldn't hold it in any longer, she screamed.  Herobrine: Shut up! Someone will hear you! Herobrine smacked Alex and a heart shrank away from her. Alex shakely jumped back. Alex: Get away from me!  Herobrine only smirked. Steve: Step away from her Herobrine. Herobrine spun around and stared at Steve. Herobrine: Ooh, Steve! Finally come back from cowarding in the forest, have we?! Steve: Go Alex! Herobrine: Oh she's not going anywhere. Suddenly a box of bedrock encased Alex. Only a single block was missing so she could watch. The grass beneath her had also turned to bedrock. Alex tried to reach out of the small hole but a strange resistance came. Herobrine: Don't even try. There's a barrier block there. There's no escape. Steve: Let her go! She has nothing to do with this! Herobrine: She does now! Are you ready Steve?! Are you ready for my revenge?! Herobrine laughed and an object appeared in his hand. A black sharp tool. Pointy and ready to hurt someone. A netherite sword.

I think the entire cavern was watching right then, when that thing fell from the opening. The opening in the top was surrounded by a glass dome and we could see, even from this far down, all the humans standing around the opening on top of the glass. The glass of course was strong enough to hold them and probably an entire crowd of humans. The opening itself was about six feet in diameter though whatever fell through it barely took up a sixth of the space. The thing that was falling seemed to be screaming and fabric was billowing around it. The thing fell down and down and down past the scaffolding and makeshift metal bridges, past the watching eyes of draki and sylphs. Down and down, story after story it fell until it hit the lake of sewer water at the bottom and a splash of filthy water rained down. The splash was so large that it managed to reach even me and Astrid where we sat in an alcove a few stories above the very bottom. I looked at Astrid in that moment and the grin on her face told me we were thinking the same thing. Dinner. We slid down the pole of the scaffolding and I gave a whistle to the sirens and selkies that were poking and prodding the thing as it sank. They looked at me for a second and Astrid bared her teeth and then a pair of them dragged the thing to the surface and pushed her onto the top of a large pipe that ran across part of Sewer Lake. I glided along the pipe from where it met the concrete shore and stopped next to the thing laying on the pipe, looking it over. Whatever it was was wrapped in what looked like formerly white and light pink fabric though what looked like human legs poked out of the bottom. I prodded it but it didn’t move. It’s head was covered in what looked like hair that was now soaked with sewer water. “What is it?” came a watery voice from behind me and sure enough when I looked over Naida was poking at the person from where she swam next to the pipe. Some selkie or siren must have gone to fetch her.  “I don’t know, let's find out.” I said and ran a razor sharp nail across a section of its arm that wasn’t tangled in fabric. Blood rose to the surface of its skin and I lifted it to my mouth. It tasted like human but there, right there, a bit of magic. “It’s a witch.” Naida swam back a few feet from the edge of the pipe. Behind me I heard Astrid take a step back. They saw a threat in this thing, this witch, but I saw an opportunity. I pushed the hair out of her face. I called over my shoulder to where Astrid stood behind me, “Go get Lance, we might need a healer.” she indeed looked bruised from the fall. Astrid ran off and I looked back to the girl, the witch.  Her face was pretty, creamy coffee skin and long lashes, cute. But right now that didn’t matter, not yet, right now I needed this witch to survive. I stood up and jumped down to elbow her in the stomach and she started coughing and spewing sewer water from her mouth, disgusting. After a minute of hacking and spitting the girl seemed to notice where she was. “Am I dead?” her voice was light and wavering, but hopeful, like she would rather be dead than have fallen into the cavern. Couldn’t blame her, most humans would rather die than come here, but she wasn’t a human. At least she wasn’t completely human.  “No.” I said it as kindly as I could but it still came out sharp. I needed to get this girl to trust me, or at least not think I’m evil. “You’re currently at the bottom of the underground.” Bottom wasn’t exactly accurate as there were tunnels running even farther down then where we were now, but this was the lowest the cavern itself went. “Oh shit.”  “Oh shit indeed, but you're in luck,” I heard Astride and Lance approaching behind me.” because we can keep you safe.”  “Wait what?” Astrid said and I elbowed her in the gut murmuring “Follow my lead dumbass” the girl looked confused, and wet.  “Why would you help me?” “Because you, my dear little witch, are going to help me.” “I’m not a witch.” The girl looked like she was admitting a shameful flaw when she said it. “Don’t lie, I could taste the magic on you.”  “Well that's probably just because my grandma’s a witch.” For my purposes it didn’t really matter though I highly doubted that the magic I tasted was just some dormant power.  “What's your name girl?” “I’m Olive.”  “Lance, bring Olive back to our place, get her some clothes, something that isn’t soaked in sewer sludge.” As I turned around Lance picked up the girl. “What's your name?” the girl called as I was almost at the concrete ledge. I turned back with a wicked grin, “I’m Nyxie.”

Laying on a river bank, we’re greeted by our protagonist, Hiroshi Nakamoto who stares endlessly at the clouds in the sky while he waits by his rod in the warmth of the spring sun. Finally a break from it all, to sit down and relax.    Other fishermen around do the same as some occasionally move to reel in fish.   Hiro gets up as his rod begins to move as he quickly reels in a fish resembling a trout.   He smiles as he brings it towards the other fisherman.   “Ooh, not bad for a first timer.”   “Here, put it in with the others.” another says.   “It’s always good to have another youngster join us.” An older fisherman says.   “Why don’t you sit with us, Hiro?”   “Sure. Let me grab my rod.”   They sit together as they wait for their rods to ring.   After 40 long years, I can finally rest.   Hiro puts on a smile as he talks to the others.     Karoshi, work death, from early mornings to late nights.    I find myself waking up late at night at my office desk. Is it late at night? Or the early morning? I can’t tell from a glance, I shake my computer screen as I the screen comes back to life, on it an email. Urgent Please Respond Immediately, it’s another request to process another invoice, my daily task at the Company. 40 years of my life all wasted on this.   I quickly process the request as I look around me, my colleagues and coworkers all sleeping at their desks, besides a few other night owls working at their desks without even giving me a glance, not that they could afford too.   Waiting by a printer, I stand in silence, a moment of reprieve from the day to day tasks. As I stand in front of the first floor entrance, waiting from the printer to give me the invoice I stare outside the window screen.   A bright light approaches as I freeze in glee. A truck rams through the entryway, the driver asleep. I stare motionlessly in the scene, a truck coming right at me.    Then a flicker and a fade.    ========================================================================   I stare out from a window of the institute and academy for the best and brightest, gifted they called them. And to me, they’re all just children, forced into great expectations.   For someone like me who has already lived 60 years.   I do not want to live another life, to be forced and confined in these walls.   The flaws of their ways, I can see them all, how to solve them and what they are. But, I don’t care. For the promises that took away my youth, I just want to be able to lay down and say, I had a good life.     “I know you can do better than this, Hiro. I watched as you took the entrance exam, how quickly you answered the problems and just sat there, waiting.” A female instructor says.   He smiles.   “Are you happy?” He asks her.   “What’s that have to do with this?”   “I just wanted to ask, I’ve never seen you outside of this lab. I just wanted to ask, are you happy?” Hiro asks again.   “Well of course, I love my work, it’s fulfilling. I gave everything for it.”   Hiro puts on a smile.   “But do you feel fulfilled anywhere else? Were you given a chance or opportunity to pursue anything else, to do anything else, to be anything else?”   “I see what you’re getting at.”   “But the world isn’t so forgiving.”   “Why not? Why can’t it be?”   “Do you want to be here, Mr. Nakamura?”   “The Magic Academy is a wonderful place, but I do not see how it can help me in what I want to do.”   The woman sighs.   “Here take this, it’s a leave of absence. Go explore the world and then tell me, once you see the truth, you’ll be beginning to be let back in. ”   “Is that so?”     Standing in a field of flowers, Hiroshi stares off into the sky.   People occasionally pass by on horses and carriages, some offering small glances but nothing else. Time passes as he doesn’t seem to move. Until another carriage comes by with a few adventurers.   “Hey! What are you doing over there!” A man shouts out towards Hiroshi.   One of them turns their gaze at him as Hiroshi pretends to not notice.   “Hey, hey, hey. Stop here for a bit.”   With his sword on his hilt and his gear on, the man walks over towards Hiroshi. As Hiroshi turns to look over at him.   “Yo.” The man says as he sits down beside him.   “Hey.” Hiroshi replies, continuing to stare at the sky, the man seeing it looks up with him.   “You know, I could stab you and rob you right now.” He whispers.   “Oh.” Hiroshi replies.   The man begins to laugh.   “I’m kidding. I’m kidding.”   Slowly a few other adventurers get out as they look over at the man. Who waves at them to stop. Shaking his head.   “So, what are you doing out here?”   “Just sitting.”   “Why? Aren’t you scared?”   “Of what?”   “The monsters, it’s not safe out here.”   “Oh, so that’s what they were. I don’t know, I just wanted to relax on the hill.”   The adventurer looks at him in shock.   “Don’t you know? This is a goblin hill.”   “Thanks, I'll keep that in mind.” Says as he continues to sit down.   The man seems frustrated.   “Come with me, it isn’t safe here.” He tries to pull Hiroshi up who’s still laying on the ground. He sees a female archer approaching and another man.   “Alright.”     Hiroshi is now talking with the adventurers at a table in a tavern. They seem to be consuming some sort of dish or soup consisting of randomly assorted vegetables, liquid and broth. Hiroshi looks at it in disgust as the others continue to ask him questions.   “So you’re from the academy huh, I didn’t think I’d be able to meet a student like you.”   “Was that your first time outside the big city?”   “Yeah, I guess.” Hiroshi says.   “To make a connection, in a place like this. It’s a good thing we found you before that scout could come back with others.” A man says.   “So what’s it like being a wizard?”   “Boring I guess, it’s a lot of reading and writing, not something I was expecting.”   “Wow! You can read?” The female adventurer says in surprise.   “Only nobles know how to read, are you a noble?”   Hiroshi thinks to himself as he wonders, what am I in this world? As suddenly a random memory of a small town village shows up. He doesn’t say anything as he stares at them in silence. A few of them get nervous as they look over at their leader, the man.   “Oh well, your family must be worried sick.”   “No, they don’t mind.”   The leader looks at the ground.   “Oh really, that’s a shame. So why’d you leave the academy?”   “It just isn’t for me.” Hiroshi replies.   “What!? You’re kidding right, almost nobody gets in there, it’s like a golden ladder.”   “Oh, the test was easy. It’s just basic geometry.”   “Geometry? Is that a branch of magic from a distant land?”   Not wanting to deal with this anymore, Hiroshi smiles.   “Sure.”   They all seem to be shocked and surprised.   “Wow.”   “So young, yet already a master.”   The leader thinks to himself as he looks over at Hiroshi.   “Hey, Hiro. I know most directly enter the kingdoms or the wizardry alliance. So now that you’re out. What is it that you want to do?” The leader asks.   “I want to be a fisherman.” Hiroshi responds.   “A fisherman?” They ask.   “You’re kidding right?” A tall burly adventurer asks him.   “No, not really.” Hiroshi responds.   “Why-!”   “Shut up.” The leader stops one of the adventurers from asking further.   “Hiro, do you have any plans on how you’re going to be one? I know many wizards have an interest in beast taming, sea serpents and drakes. Is that what you were thinking?”   “No, just fishing.”   “Plain, old fishing?”   “Yeah. I think it would be fun.”   “Are you sure?” The leader seems lost.   “There isn’t much else I’d want to do. Do you know anyone who could help me out?”   The leader thinks to himself as he looks up at Hiroshi.   “I know a few.”     At a dock, we see the leader waving bye to Hiroshi as an older gentleman stands beside him wearing overalls and boots, carrying a basket and rod.   “Ho, ho, ho. So you’re the person, Reddrick recommended. Mmm, you don’t look so bad, a bit thin but that’s fine. We’ll start you off with a line rod, ever done that before?”   “No, it’s my first time, sorry.”   “No need to apologize, it’s really easy, here let me show you how it works and you can start your first shift with me and the others. Walk with me.”   They walk towards a building as the man grabs an older looking rod handing it to Hiroshi.   “Here take this, grab some feathers and spool.”   “I’m going to show you how to properly make a lure so you can at least catch trout by the end of the night.” He says.   Grabbing the equipment, Hiroshi follows the man out of the building.    They walk towards a river bank where other fishermen are already waiting, getting their lines setup and preparing for the long day.   A few wave at the old man.   “Hey Leo! Hurry up! The fish are already biting!”   They walk up as they set their gear down.   “Who’s he?”   “Newcomer, treat him like family.”   One of the fishermen looks over at Hiroshi, then asks him a question.   “You know anything about fishing?”   “No, not at all, it just looks neat.”   “Huh.”   “Don’t worry, it can be hard but Leo’s the best.” A dark skinned fisher touches his shoulder.   “If you’re done talking, get ready, Hiro come over here.”   Hiroshi walks over as he sees Leo working with his rod attaching the spool. He begins lining up the string on the rod, he grabs onto the end as he begins to intricately tie the end with a feather.   “See how I’m doing it? You’re going to have to do the same, it won’t be perfect the first time but practice makes perfect, or close to it.”   Hiroshi nods as he watches him do it.   “Now you do it.”   Grabbing his rod, Hiroshi, tries to imitate him. Reaching the tip, he begins to try to tie it together.   “The technique is important so the feather doesn’t fall out in the water and so it doesn’t break apart too much in their mouths.”   Braiding the feather onto the line, he fastens it together.   “Eh, that will do.” Leo begins to pull on the feather which stays fastened.   “Great, now onto the next part.”   Leo throws his line into the water, it flies and lands into the moving river, then he proceeds to stick it into the ground.   “Now you try.”   Grabbing his rod, Hiroshi tries to force it forward.   “Try to put your body into it in a motion. The rods are a bit heavy but it can make the difference.” Leo responds.   Hiroshi tries again this time the line flies into the river basin.    “Nice, now fasten it into the ground somewhere.”   Looking around, Hiroshi picks a spot nearby.   “Now you wait.”   As Leo seemingly sits down on the ground, he smiles at Hiroshi.   Hiroshi joins him.   “So why’d you decide you wanted to become a fisherman?” Leo asks him.   “Looked like fun.”   “What do you think? Now?” He asks.   Hiroshi looks at the basin and a small grin begins to form as he watches a family of ducks swim across the basin.   “I think I could get used to it.” Hiroshi replies.   “Good, good. No one likes a quitter.”   “I’ll keep that in mind.” Hiroshi says as Leo laughs.   “I’m kidding, I’m kidding. Yeah, it can be relaxing, but you should know this. The pay isn’t the best, it’s enough for a night's rest and enough to fill your stomach but that's it. Are you sure about this?” Leo asks.   Hiroshi nods.   “Couldn’t think of anything else I’d want to do.”   “I wish I thought like you when I was your age.” Leo says as he pats his shoulder.   “So, did I.” Hiroshi mumbles.   ========================================================================   “Ever think of settling down and getting married, Hiro?   “No, never.”   “Well then, who’s going to take care of you as you get older? You aren’t getting any younger Hiro, come on, think about it.” A now older Hiro stands next to a black fisherman and the other fisherman asks him.   “This place isn’t my home.”   “You need to stop saying that already, you’ve been here for almost ten years.”   “Do you hate us, Hiroshi?”   “No, I love it here.”   “Then why?”   “I don’t know. It’s hard to explain.”   “I hope whatever it is, that you’re happy with how it’s going.”   “Don’t worry, I do.”

Don’t Go Alone My heart’s beating in my chest, air keeps getting stuck in my lungs, as I sprinted though the forest without any care for the inhabitants. I ducked under branches and clipped trees cutting my skin raw. I needed to keep looking straight ahead looking back would only slow me down. My eyes frantically scanning the trees. I took a deep breath as to calm myself, and slow down my heart beat. It’s bad enough they have my scent. I had turned off my emotions a long time ago, however keeping them off was going to be a bit of a challenge in the future, I cursed myself for getting into this predicament. We haven’t even been together for two years, and here I was pregnant and running for my life in the dead of night. My eyes caught sight of a big Willow tree, I had never seen before, I usually tried to be weary of the forest, always going in and out as fast as possible. I lifted my head to try and smell my surroundings, the only thing I could smell was grass and even more grass, I cursed myself again for never taking my training seriously, for never taking anything seriously until now. I knew if Octavius or the others caught me, they’d forced me to get abortion or worse. I figured the Willow tree is my best for maybe getting out of this. I ran toward it, and fumbled for a spilt second, I guess I was more tried then I had previously thought, I threw myself forward until I was completely covered with the willow trees leafs, I quickly got to climbing at a steady pace, if this plan failed I would need to be able to run again. I pulled myself onto the branch that’s above a cliff with shallow waters and rocks down below. I loved that for me not only did I not how to pick a man, I didn’t know how to pick a tree branch. I chuckled at myself, and leaned with my back onto the tree. I didn’t rest though, I may not be the best hunter, but I had good genes to keep me alive, luck is on my side. I placed a hand on my stomach and told my little fetus that we were going to be alright. I smiled a little, I hoped they’d have his eyes and or he’s smile. In the near distance, a wolf howled. My smile dropped and I moved my hand as I pressed my body more into the tree and made sure to stay still as the wolves broke through the forest tress, i hoped the leafs would help hide my scent a bit. Another howl cut through the forest and the biggest wolf I’ve ever seen appeared, it’s him. My Akino I felt much more at ease seeing him, but that wasn’t enough to get me to come down from the tree, I could tell Octavius was near, Akino took a few more steps closer to the tree and begin to shift from his wolf form to his human one, the change always seemed so painful, however when I would question him about it he’d just shrug and move on to a different topic. He look so small from up here, even through he stood at about 6′4, his broad shoulders and a tapered waisted, his hair a dark black color that almost blended in with the darkness of the forest, he had Japanese features he look up at me with his grey eyes, a scar across his face that didn’t hinder his beauty one bit. “Love, You should have told me.” He lowly growled at me out of irritation. “I wouldn’t have done anything to you, you know I’d never hurt you.” His eyes pleading with me, a hint of sadness in them, because i didn’t trust him enough to tell him about Octavius. I bit the side of my cheek and looked away I couldn’t stare into his eyes any longer, the guilt starting to eat away at me. I could feel my emotions coming back. “He lies.” I looked towards the voice who spoke to see it had been Octavius, he walks into the forest clearing and begins to walk over to the tree. Akino growls at him and he ignores the warning and continues walking over until he and Akino are both standing at the same distance away from the tree. “Werewolves are killers, blood shed is all they know. How long did you think he’d continue to put off killing you. You were nothing but warm bed to him.” Octavius said in a tone that made me realize how disgusted he was with me, I’d assume as much. I’d be lying if I said he’s words didn’t hurt. I watched as more hunters walked out from the place he came from. He’d force me to go back with him or die trying. “You know nothing of our love, hunter.” Akino spoke to him, trying to keep himself calm. The last thing he wanted to do was give them a reason, he wanted me by his side once again, however I could tell that Akino was one word away from exploding, his breathing seemed to be getting heavier and his eyes were turning darker, it was only a matter of time before he shifted. Octavius stood at 6′2, a few inches shorter then Akino, he’s an African American man with dark brown eyes and standing in a very relaxed position. “Cordelia stop acting like a child and get down from there this instant.” Though his tone was slightly calm, I could tell he was angry with me for getting caught up in all of this. I leaned away from the tree and scooted out from under the leafs, as to get a better look at both of them. I made sure the branch I was on is sturdy enough to hold my weight seemed to be about fine for now. “I’m not acting like a child.” I said as I held my chin up high. “I’m doing this for my own safety in mind.” I was thinking of crossing my arms but thought against as one bad move and I’d be falling towards my death. I’m starting to think this tree wasn’t the best idea. “I let you go off on you own, because I trusted you.” Octavius spoke talking down to me, is one of his favorite things. “This is how you prepay my kindness, by jumping into a wolf’s bed the first chance you get. I’m truly disappointed in you. I expected so much more.” He shook his head at me. “You can come down on your own, or I can send someone to drag you down. Pick.” he told me in a threatening tone. He was looking at me intently, and the order behind his words didn’t go unnoticed. That had done it, Akino shifted and pounced on Octavius, they moved out of my view but it appeared that Akino was trying to bit and claw at Octavius, Wolves and hunters alike fighting each other, I moved a bit more on the branch to see what was happening but my attention moved to something or someone else. “This is all your fault.” She yelled at me from somewhere beyond the trees, her wolf appeared and started for the tree, I looked down at Faith trying to climb the tree in her wolf form, I didn’t know wolves could climb but her hatred for me was sure giving her strength to achieve the impossible. I stared at her dumbfounded. She wasn’t half bad. I didn’t even realize how close she got to me until she tried to swipe at me, I moved away from her claws and realized to late that I moved on the weakest part of the branch. Crack I screamed and wrapped my arms around myself, wishing more than anything that my little baby would be okay.

For centuries, at Assessment, humans have been divided into one of five categories: Sensors - for whom one or multiple senses are enhanced, Shifters - who are able to manipulate their own matter in order to adjust temperature or size, Intellects - able to rationalize and invent with unparalleled ingenuity, Somatics - for whom a single physical trait is exemplary, and the Deathless - whose ability to heal grants them near eternal life.  Since this system was established by the First World Council, it has never failed to accurately categorize an individual.  Last Tuesday, for the first time in history, after rigorous physical and thorough mental evaluation, the Council discovered a child who defies this system.  For that reason, they have chosen to add a sixth category.  Powerless. – Aletha Davis, 726 Anno Imperii Ortu     As the alarm clock screams, ripping me from a peaceful sleep, I roll to my side and pull the pillow over my head.  I have no delusions that the fabric and feathers will silence the banshee’s cry, yet I hide nonetheless.  With a groan, I finally accept the inevitability of the beginning of the day.  One last desperate plea to the powers that be to turn back the hands of the time goes unheard and I emerge from my cave of silk.             As I rise, I drop my hand on the button of the clock.  I have made it a habit to refuse to grant myself the respite of silence until I stand.  Tardiness is not an option – so this is my best recourse.  When I move my hand, I wince as I notice the time.  Stifling back the burning anger, I shake my head.  It isn’t fair that I need the extra commute time, but I can’t allow myself to wallow.             Before I can talk myself out of it, I feel my hand closing into a fist and flying toward the wall.  The moment it makes contact, I withdraw and shake it violently.  Punching walls always seems like it’s going to be cathartic before the pain sets in.             I silently scold myself as I exhale through clenched teeth, willing the pain to subside.  I need to stay composed.  I can’t show mental weakness to accompany the physical.             On wobbly legs, I trudge toward the door.  The world seems to move so slowly around me, taunting me with my inability to effectively move through it.  When I finally reach the door, I drop my head against the frame.  Most mornings aren’t so bad, but waking up from dreams always has a way of draining my will.  Despite my best efforts, I have failed to find a way to kill the lingering hope in my subconscious that I’ve been wrong my entire life.             Wiping my mind clean, I take a deep breath and stand tall.  I have to convince my mom she has no cause for concern.  I don’t want her pity today.  As I pull open my door, I can already hear her pouring a bowl of cereal for me in the kitchen.  Just knowing how much she cares is enough to pull the corners of my mouth up in a more real smile than the fabricated one behind which I hid.             “Good morning,” she calls in a singsong voice.  Before I can bring myself to respond, she meets me in the middle of the kitchen and presses her lips against my forehead.  Silently, I begin counting the good things in my life.  I have a great family, the best of friends, and I’m technically a Class I.  My crippling normalcy is almost completely overshadowed as my coping mechanism takes effect and I pull away.             “Good morning, Mom,” I reply.  “Thanks.”             “Don’t mention it,” she shrugs as I sit at the table and begin stabbing at the dry flakes with a spoon.  “Did you sleep well?”             “Yeah,” I respond absentmindedly.  I appreciate her attempt to make conversation, but I’m not entirely sure how to respond.  I definitely don’t want to go into details of my dreams and give her the impression that I’m not satisfied with who I am.             “Well, then maybe today you’ll beat them,” she winks, leaning forward and placing her elbows on the table.             “What?”  I ask through a mouthful of moistened granola.             “You think I can’t read you?  I know school is always tough, but I can tell when you’re particularly distressed.”             “I don’t know what you’re talking about,” I deflect, cautiously navigating the line of avoiding further discussion and appearing defensive.  As well-intentioned as she is, my mother still doesn’t seem to be able to grasp the concept of tact.  The last thing I want to think about is Recruitment.             “You know you’re special, right Car?”             “That’s one way to describe it,” I mutter without thinking.  I bite my tongue, but the words have already escaped.  My family has always had a way of breaking down my defenses.             “Come on, how many people do you know like yourself?”             “Special and defective are different things,” I explain.  Now that the floodgates have opened, there is no sense in trying to close them again.  She will continue to pry until she thinks I’m okay, so I may as well save the energy it takes to pretend.             “Stop it,” she scolds, standing up and furrowing her brow.             “I’m sorry Mom.  I don’t mean to complain.  Maybe you’re right, maybe I’ll win.”             “That’s the spirit!”  She cheers, slapping a palm against the counter.  Swirling the last few pieces of cereal around in a pool of milk, I try to decide whether my hunger or churning stomach will decide my action.             “Maybe I inherited your power after all,” I sigh, pushing my chair back and stepping away from the table.             “Carson!” She grabs my wrist as I try to walk away.  Somehow, I am always surprised that my mumbling is not quite as quiet as I expect it to be.  I don’t want her to think I’m ungrateful, and I don’t want her to feel at fault.  It was a recessive gene she and my father shared which made me the way I am, but she couldn’t have known that.  “I see you, Carson.”             “I know.”  With a nod, I slide my hand free and retreat to the bathroom.  Behind the closed door, I strip down and step into the shower.  I don’t have time to dwell on the memories if I want to make it to school on time, so I try to focus on the present.  Nonetheless, as the warm water falls over my body, I can practically feel the disappointed gazes of the Council and my parents watching me fail.  The shame is just as real as it had been then.  I see my younger self stumbling through the race and struggling to lift weights – jumping and failing to fly.  As hard as they had pushed me, my body refused to display any semblance of ability.  I am powerless.             I hear multiple voices echoing from the kitchen, and panic sets in.  Quickly, I turn off the shower and wipe myself down with a towel.  How had I lost track of time so easily?  My dad and Ashley had joined my mother in the kitchen, and neither of them were the type to wake long before necessary.  Wrapping the towel around my waist, I step in the hallway, rushing toward my room.             “Car?  You’re still here?”  Ashley notices.  “You’re going to be late!”             “What?  No, I’m…” I start to argue.  I realize that I have no idea what time it is.  Rather than debating with her, I turn my eyes toward the clock in the hall.  Without another word, I run to my room and sloppily pull clothes over my damp body.  Tightening a watch around my wrist, I stumble back into the hallway.             “I’m sorry, I have to run,” I inform my family.  Even if I could sprint the three miles to school, I know I have no hope of making it on time.             “Just let me give you a lift,” Ashley offers.  Her face lights up as if she’s excited to hold this over me.  Shaking my head, I turn and walk toward the door.             “Thanks, Ash, but I’d really prefer to walk.”             “You’ll be late.  Look, I’ll take you around the back so no one has to know your little sister is taking you to school.”             “They’ll see us on the way!”             “I… can’t entirely mitigate that risk.  I just don’t want you to get in trouble.”             I want to argue, but it wouldn’t be the first time my tardiness has caused problems.  Glancing down at my watch, I run some calculations in my mind.  I have ten minutes to run three miles.  That would be a simple task for any Somatics.  For me, though, it is a matter of how late I am.  Gritting my teeth, I drop my eyes and nod solemnly, walking toward the door.             “Yay!”  She cheers, far too eager.  I can’t help but wonder if she enjoys making a fool of me.  “It’s bonding time, Car.  I never get to hang out with you.”             “These circumstances aren’t exactly ideal,” I argue.             “That’s what makes it an adventure.”             “Okay, okay,” my dad interjects.  “That’s nice of you, Ashley, but you won’t be quite as fast with your brother.  You two should probably leave soon.”             “Good point,” she chirps, rushing toward the door.  I wonder if all fifteen-year olds are so chipper or if my sister is the universe’s way of balancing me out.             Questioning my decision, I follow her outside.  I am almost ready to accept the penalties for being tardy, but the joy on her face stops me from telling her.             “Are you ready?”  She asks.             “No,” I admit under my breath.  Searching for a way out that won’t offend her, I ask, “Are you sure you can lift me?”             “You’re not that heavy.  Anyway, it’s easier after we take off.”             “Right,” I sigh, watching my only escape route fade.  Ashley steps toward me, apparently unwilling to wait any longer, and slips one arm under my knees.  Lifting me from my feet, she cradles me like an infant in her arms.             “Wow, you’re heavy,” she complains.  The last time she had carried me, we were in grade school.  Two years wasn’t quite as drastic a difference then.  Now, she is a foot shorter than I am and probably weighs fifty pounds less.             “I can walk, it’s okay,” I suggest, concealing the desperation in my tone with compassion.  This is my last chance to escape with some shred of dignity.             “No, I’ll be fine, I just need to…” She punctuates her sentences with a grunt as she jumps a few inches from the ground.  Hovering, she seems far more capable of holding me.  The higher she climbs, the more the exertion fades from her face.  Looking down, I see that I can no longer manage an escape which does not result in my death.             In spite of my humiliating position, I can’t help but feel impressed with my sister.  She used to barely fly faster than I could run while carrying me, but she is far more powerful now.  Though she is classified as a Class IV, her power leaves me in awe.  Buildings blur beneath us as we speed up, soaring over the city below.             I feel my face grow warm with embarrassment when she flies past a group of other students.  I try to hide my face – hoping to avoid damaging the small reputation I do have - but I have no question that they all know exactly who I am.  Ashley’s brow furrows as she leans forward and I feel my stomach churn with a sudden acceleration.  She picks up more speed, leaving our judgmental peers in the dust.             “Ash,” I whisper, trying to get her attention.  A bead of sweat forms on her forehead, and I finally realize that she isn’t simply getting stronger with age.  She’s training.  For a brief moment, I am overwhelmed with admiration for my sister.  As she continues to accelerate, nausea takes the place of any other feeling.  I tighten my core, hoping I can keep the food down with sheer force.  A feeling growing in my throat confirms that my ill-advised plan is doomed to fail, but Ashley suddenly slows down drastically.             Finally, she plants her feet in the dirt behind the school.  Exhausted, she falls forward and drops me.  Covering my face, I roll away from her.  When I stop moving, I lie in place and fight the urge to vomit.             “I’m sorry!”  Ashley pants, racing toward me.  She falls to her knees and rubs my back soothingly.  “I’m sorry!”             “Don’t apologize,” I cough, smiling despite the situation.  The smile transforms into laughter, which doesn’t do much to help the sickness welling in my stomach.             “What’s so funny?”             “I love you,” I struggle to say through the coughs.  Rolling onto my back, I feel my stomach finally begin to settle.  The world is still spinning, but at least I’m going to keep my breakfast down.             “You’re not mad?”             “How could I be mad?  That was great.  Quite the adventure.”  Leaning back on my hands, I stumble into a seated position.  Dizziness almost overtakes me, but I’m able to stabilize myself and look into the sky.  Matching my position, Ashley turns around and sits beside me.  I turn to ask, “When did you get so fast?”             “I knew you wouldn’t want to be seen, so I tried to get so fast that you wouldn’t have to.  I miss going to school with you.”             “We were kids,” I sigh.  “Aside from being in high school now, I was a lot easier to lift.”             “I can’t deny that,” she laughs.  Her joy is almost enough to make me glad I had been late.  Being carried to school by my little sister is mortifying, but I never realized that finding my own way to school hurt her so much.             “I’ll, uh… I’ll give you a minute.  Then I’ll fly around to the front,” she offers somberly as her laughter dies down.             “No,” I shake my head.  Standing to my feet, I brush the dirt from my pants.  When I offer her my hand, her eyes light up once again.  “Come on, let’s go.”             “Really?”             “I’m not embarrassed of you, Ash.  I mean, I can’t say it’s my idea of fun to be carried to school, but I was never ashamed of you.  Come on.”             “Okay,” she cheers.  I am blown away by how one act of decency can brighten my sister’s day so much. It’s almost enough to make me forget about the difficulty of being surrounded by powered people.  As we turn the corner, I see the landing zone for the Fliers – most of whom didn’t bother to slow down before landing.  The school had designated the area for them to avoid damaging grass, buildings, or other students. Behind me, I hear the unmistakable bursts of wind as Runners dash by.  Intellects ride toward the building on hoverboards or other hand-made vehicles, and I can see Brawns in the distance leaping over buildings.  Trying to stifle my jealousy, I avoid looking around and coveting their powers too much.             A group of Class II and III students pesters the Vs as they arrive.  I don’t want to get involved.  There isn’t much I can do anyway.  When I hear Rhett’s voice, I know I don’t have another option.             “Sorry, Ash, I have to fix this,” I mutter, trying to think of a plan as I turn from her.             “Let me help,” she offers.  I don’t want to risk putting her in danger, but I can’t deny that I could use the assistance.  I have nothing to offer besides notoriety in a fight.             “Stay back,” I tell her.  “I’ll give you a signal.”             “Yes sir!”  She teases, standing at attention with a salute.  Mustering feigned confidence, I puff out my chest a bit and stand taller as I push my way through the crowd.             “What’s going on here?”  I angrily demand.  Though the Class IIs are younger and smaller than me, they clearly aren’t intimidated.  A few hundred feet away, a Runner holds Rhett’s bag and sneers tauntingly at us.  At the slightest hint of movement, I know he will run.  The other two share Rhett’s category, but they refuse to allow him to forget that they belong to a higher tier.  As a Class V Shifter, Rhett finds himself on the receiving end of far too much bullying.             “Oh, look, it’s the Powerless,” Leo – a bulky Class II Shifter – taunts.  His power is to change his own shape and size at will, so I’ve always wondered why he chose such a hefty form for his main appearance.  It seems like he could just fabricate abs.             Wyatt, Leo’s partner in crime and another Class II Shifter, laughs as if calling me Powerless is a novel joke.  The sound is gravelly and hoarse, as his flesh is composed almost entirely of stone.  As he folds his arms, the stone shifts to skin.             “It’s the Class I,” I correct with simulated confidence.  Technically, as the only Powerless, I also hold the status of Class I.  I know my opponents are quite aware that this title means nothing in terms of fighting power, but it does grant me a certain status within the community.  I’m hoping that’s enough to convince them to back down.             “A Class I Powerless,” Wyatt laughs, clearly not taking the bait.  “I’ll take my chances.”             “Cross me and see how bad those chances are,” I growl, stepping toward him and glaring down at him.  I tense the muscles in my arms and scowl.  Wyatt hesitates, and the Runner looks toward us inquisitively.  I think this is going to work, as long as I hold my ground.             Wyatt’s face begins shimmering as his dark skin lightens to a silver tone and becomes reflective.  I squint against the glare emanating from his metallic cheek, but I am careful not to show my fear.  If it comes to a fight, I will be punched by a hunk of solid steel.             Leaning back, I lighten my expression.  Subtly, I nod my head, using that motion to lead into an innocuous, overconfident laugh.  A blur of light passes by my peripheral vision as I crack my neck and smirk at the bullies.             “Hey!”  The Runner, probably a freshman judging by his cracking prepubescent voice, screams.  I hear two feet plant themselves firmly on the ground behind me.  Cautiously, I take a step back to put distance between Wyatt and myself.  Looking over my shoulder, I see Ashley give Rhett his bag back.             “You think we’re scared of a Flier?”  Leo asks with annoyance.  Clearly, he’s upset to see his game of picking on the weak being brought to an end.  I can see that he’s trying to distract me, because I had used the same tactic on him.  I hold my fist out to my side, intercepting the Runner’s obvious path as he rushes toward Rhett to reclaim his prize.  With his speed, the impact is almost enough to knock me over.  My arm hurts, but I hold my ground and avoid wincing as the Runner falls backward, doubling over and clutching his gut.             “Thanks,” I tell Ashley.  “I think we’re done here.”             I nod toward Wyatt and hope she notices my cues.  As if accepting my statement at face value, she shrugs and soars away.  Turning my attention back toward the Shifters, I smirk confidently.  “Didn’t your parents teach you not to fight above your class?”             “Don’t act cocky because your little sister came to save you,” Wyatt spits.             “Right, because three against one really made you out to be a big man.”             “I’ll show you how big I am!”             “What?”  I laugh.  Insulting his word choice clearly has an effect, and I start to worry that Ashley didn’t understand my order.             “Let’s go!”             “Frankly, I don’t plan on punching steel,” I admit.  My confidence in my sister is restored when I see her plunging from the sky.  Dropping behind Wyatt, she grips him in a full nelson.  Given the fact that Wyatt likely weighs half a ton, Ashley isn’t going to be able to lift him – but Wyatt doesn’t have to know that.  “Tell me, how far do you think metal can fall before it breaks?”             “You’re insane!”  Wyatt stutters.  “We were just teasing him.”             “You messed with the wrong person.  Never get in the way of a Class I.”             I see Leo take a step forward so I threateningly hold a hand toward him.  “Take another step and she takes off.”             Cautiously, Leo raises his hands into the air and backs away.             “You’re just hiding behind your sister again!”  Wyatt snaps desperately.             “Yeah, well, maybe my power is delegation,” I shrug.  Turning and walking away, I instruct Ashley, “Make sure he doesn’t die.  We wouldn’t want to go to prison.”             “Stop!”  Wyatt begs, tears apparent in his voice.  “Stop, stop, stop.”             Looking back, I nod toward Ashley.  She releases him and steps back, relief flooding her face.  I wonder if she thought I actually expected her to lift and drop him.  As Ashley rejoins Rhett and me, Wyatt curls up in a ball on the ground.  Leo hesitantly walks toward him, clearly unwilling to take another step closer to me.  He coaxes his friend to his feet and the two retreat.  My pounding heart begins to slow down as I finally allow myself to accept the fact that we had won.             “Thanks, guys,” Rhett says with a sigh.  Ashely rushes forward and embraces me, clearly excited to have been of assistance.             “Okay, okay,” I tell her, pushing her back.  “Thanks, Ash.  You were amazing.  And Rhett, you know I’ll always be there for you.”             “I do,” Rhett agrees.  “But it doesn’t mean I won’t always be grateful.”             I smile as the three of us walk toward the school.  Most of the other students are already inside.  I check my watch to see that we only have about a minute before school starts.  I may be late anyway.  Regardless, I feel good.  It is probably the high from our victory, but I’m not dreading the humiliating defeat awaiting me in PE.  For the first time in a long time, I’m not even jealous of the powered people flaunting their gifts.  Today is off to a great start.

United States without Uncle Sam there will be no United States, Soviet Union without Joseph Stalin then there is no Soviet Union, Indonesia without Engineer Soekarno then there is no Indonesia. Those are some phrases for famous world leaders before we start the storyline. Greetings to all dear readers, hopefully you can avoid the dangers and the corona virus, amen: D  My name is Hizen Yamato and just call me Yamato for short, I’m 90 years old but my appearance and body are like 25 to 30 years old. I don’t know why I have the genes for youth and superhuman since birth, I work as Commander In Chief of the UN Global Defense Association [UN-GDA] and have served for 70 years in the military.  “Sir, you better go to the hospital because recently your condition is not healthy.” My subordinates advised me to rest and seek treatment because I was in a bad condition these days.  “It’s okay, I will finish this document until it’s finished because only a few more will be finished” I answered with a smile.  “Well then, I’ll be back in 60 minutes to get the documents you completed.”  The documents that I completed were reports from the global SAR team about the disaster management of the Kaiju Outbreak Problem which was completed 20 years ago and its effects, and the 15-year Alien Invasion which has ended made me a hero because the two problems were resolved. I also completed the Hizen Yamato-class Aegis Cruiser 2 years ago with completed UN funding.  Among them are HY1, HY2, HY3, HY4, and HY5 have been completed, in fact the ships are five parts that can be put together into a Super Modern Battleship.  Here are the specifications for the Hizen Yamato-class Aegis Cruiser:  4x2 283mm Rapid Firing Heavy Cannon  2x2 155mm Advanced Gun System  6x Point Defense Pantsir-M CIWS  6x Point Defense Phallanx gatling laser CIWS  2x 200 Cells Multiple Vertical Missile Launcher  2x Repair Drone Pod  5x Advanced Nuclear Reactor.  1x Nanotech core  200m long, 33m wide, and 76m high  21,000 tonnes in total  Then after being combined into one as a Battleship the specifications are:  3x3 800mm quick-firing EMP Multifunction Cannon (Can fire shell projectiles up to 50,000km in one minute  2x5 283mm Rapid Firing Heavy Cannon  5x2 155mm Advanced Gun System  30x Point Defense Pantsir-M CIWS  30x Point Defense Phallanx gatling laser CIWS  10x 200 Cells Multiple Vertical Missile Launcher  10x Repair Drone Pod  25x Advanced Nuclear Reactor.  5x Nanotech core  105,000 tons empty weight, 180,000 tons full weight (Superstructure, Main Cannon, Secondary Cannon, Point Defense Weapons are made of Hizenium, namely the strongest alloy of various metals and minerals on earth, an alloy of Titanium, Adamantium, Vibranium, Uru, Unobtainium, and diamond content can only be made in Japan)  1,050m long, 190m wide  The name Hizenium apart from the name of the discoverer is also from IJN Hizen (A-140-J3).  This time I’m really tired, huh I have to take a nap ... • Sound of broken glass * Hizen Yamato The superhuman from the land of Japan, died at the age of 90 due to exhaustion.  60 minutes later • The door is knocked *  “Sir, I came to get your documents ... sir?” His subordinates saw that his boss was lifeless and immediately called the medical staff to carry out emergency protocol with a shock device.  Then the medics arrived with stethoscopes and heart shocks.  “Secure?”  “Yes, Safe!”  “Now!”  Jedumm!  “No response, one more time!” for the first time there was no response from Mr. Hizen Yamato’s heartbeat.  “Secure?”  “Yes, Safe!”  “Now!”  Jedumm!  “No response, one more time!” for the second time there was no response from Mr. Hizen Yamato’s heartbeat.  “Yes, Safe!”  “Now!”  Jedumm!  “There is no response, he is dead, we are acting late!” Still no response one last time.  “It’s a shame because he was a good person throughout his life” the medics finally gave up for the last time, the funeral was held a day after his family received a report from the UN-GDA that the honorable Commander In Chief UN-GDA had passed away and would be buried in a public cemetery. Hiroshima  Time skip, at the Hiroshima public cemetery  “Pay your respects!”  “Ready ... Ready ... Teeei!” soldiers who pay their final respects by military means. • Gun shot sound *  “Pay your respects!”  “Ready ... Ready ... Teeei!” • Gun shot sound * • Crying sounds accompanied by Kimigayo and other sad songs *  “O heroes of the country who have contributed to this country and the world, hopefully the next life will be carried out without any hindrance, you are our family, our friends, our friends, our superiors, and our generals, may the blessings of the gods and prayers always be with you! Amen! “ The Emperor of Japan gives his final speech for the late Hizen Yamato  Then the burial took place dramatically where the guests wept bitterly, even his subordinates who were always loyal to accompany and help whenever he needed, there was always a sudden fainted when his boss was buried.  Hizen Yamato POV  Too bad I passed away but how else because it was a destiny like that which has been determined by the almighty God and almighty power over all his creatures. I as his servant can only surrender to this situation by resigning after trying my best to do good while I live on Earth. I heard the voice of a strange object appearing in front of me, an angel carrying a message from the one and only God which was apparently addressed to me who was currently buried.  “O people please accept the message from your Lord and read it!” The angel told me to read the message written on the sheet.  Then I read it fluently because I have universal language skills that can make me understand and understand any language I was born with.  “In the name of your god who created humans from a clot of blood. Read it, and it is your Lord who is most glorious. Who teaches man with a pen. He who teaches man what he does not know “I read the opening of the letter then the angel said.  “Read the contents!”  “Do you want to rule in another world, in fact there is not only one world, but there are many worlds. I will give several worlds for you to manage if you can complete the task I have given you. Your job is to stop the game of some irresponsible people in several worlds who summon heroes from other worlds using forbidden magic. It violates Inter-dimensional rules and must be eliminated immediately! I also order you to return those people who are called heroes from another world to their original world even if they have to kill them if necessary during an emergency. ”  Then I thought that it wouldn’t hurt if I could live again even though in another world that was extreme. First I will do what is my duty. I was told to maintain a balance between dimensions so I will do it happily, I’m already very bored with my daily life that only signs documents and documents. Now it’s time to return to the battlefield that’s what I like especially when I was a soldier.  I wake up in an active volcano, my body is covered by volcanic magma but it doesn’t burn me, it just feels good when the volcanic magma touches my skin. It seems that I have Element Bonding as soon as I form a familiar Armor, this Armor may be similar to the Silver Samurai Armor from Wolverine Film but its bigger size, 3m high has ten hand fingers.  “Looks like I can eat anything, even rainbow metal crystals that don’t exist on earth, then there are white metals that are not foreign, namely Adamantium and Vibranium, there is also something that is familiar when I adventure to Nidavelir, namely Uru, which is black and golden in color, I found a a letter addressed to me.  To the messenger Hizen Yamato, I am the god of your world who has given you a second chance in another world. You already understand what your task is, so I emphasize taking it easy while doing your job. I give you some strength that supports your various needs and desires, the power that I give cannot be taken or stolen by others because it is a permanent power that I give, people who try to take it or steal it will be condemned to be a Mindless Being. You no longer have the traits that humans have, you will no longer vomit when you kill other people, you cannot be lied to by other people because you can read minds and read what is in other people’s hearts.  The first is True God’s Immortality, no matter how extreme the enemy attacks, the host will not die, feel no pain, hunger, or thirst. Hosts also have the opportunity to become God in this world.  The second is Elemental Bonding, which is a tremendous power, its usefulness is to be able to make the most of Elemental or atomic Powers. Can be used for himself.  The third is [What is wanted in an instant will appear] a very overpowered power which is used to create whatever the host wants, whether it be living things or things will appear in front of him.  Infinite Magic Power and Anti-Magic, has unlimited mana capacity and if it is attacked by magic it will return to the person who threw it.  “Waaah! In this world popular with sailing ships that can fly, I believe that flying ships use wind magic. ” I jumped to the top of the mountain and saw a sailing ship that could fly like in fairy tales.  Looks like this world is very interesting to explore. Announcement I will use the names of countries that are on earth but with minor changes and technology accordingly.

Kalie hadn’t realized how long she’d been running until she felt the pain in her chest as she gasped for breath. She held tightly onto the inhaler in her hand, knowing she’d need it soon.. but not until she was safe. Today three creepy men who frequently visited the restaurant she worked at had found out that she wasn’t exactly born as Kalie. She wasn’t sure who’d told them but when they found out the girl they’d been giving huge tips to was one of those quote on quote ‘trans freaks’ they’d been furious. They waited until her shift was over and once she entered the parking lot they tried assaulting her. Kalie was fast though and she quickly ran after dodging several clumsy punches and being called a few unsavory slurs. An hour or so later and they were still chasing her although it looked that she was about to lose them, if she could just keep running a bit longer.. her asthma was the problem, she needed to stop and rest, she was struggling to breathe. Of course with her luck the way it was she soon tripped over a rather large rock, just as she was about to enter the park where she was sure she could hide.  The trio of assholes caught up to her and kicked her inhaler aside as she laid there gasping for breath. I won’t go into details of what happened to Kalie as I’m sure you can imagine but when the men were done with her she was left a sobbing bruised mess on the concrete.  She laid there for several hours, praying she’d find her inhaler and praying that someone would help her. Her prayers surprisingly were answered. A small wolf came trotting out from the parks forest, it padded over to Kalie and picked something off the ground with it’s mouth, the wolf dropped it on kalie’s chest and to her surprise it was her inhaler. She immediately wiped the dirt off the mouth piece and took a long deep breath of her medication, she immediately felt better and it was much easier to breath the fresh, crisp air coming from the park.  The little wolf looked up at her as she slowly sat up and winced in pain. “Thank you..” she whispered and the wolf strangely nodded as if it understood her. The wolf gently pushed his muzzle into kalie’s side and moved its head in a way that seemed it was motioning for Kalie to follow. She stood up and against her better judgment followed the little wolf into the park.  It led her through several twisting, worn paths, eventually bordering into the forest and soon Kalie was led to a bubbling little brook beside a rather ominous cave entrance. The little wolf sat down and let out a few small barks. Kalie covered her mouth and tried not to scream as something large came to the entrance of the cave. The moonlight shone and Kalie saw that It was a tall and muscular woman, with silver hair that went all the way down past her waist, atop her head she had two pointed grey ears that ended in silver colored tips. She had a rather large wolf tail bearing similar colors to her ears.  The wolf lady gave Kalie a big toothy grin, showing off her sharp canines that looked like they could easily be used to rip someone’s throat out. “Hello little lamb, I saw what happened, would you like vengeance?” The woman growled as she looked at Kalie’s busted lip and bruised eye. “I..uhm.. maybe?” Kalie stammered, still bewildered at the sight of the woman. “Then join my family little lamb, become something more.” The woman smiled and held out her hand for Kalie to take which she hesitantly did. The woman led her into the cave, and motioned for Kalie to sit on a small wooden chair. She did and to Kalie’s astonishment the woman slit her wrist open with a sharp looking knife, she pranced over to Kalie and with a laugh she tilted the young girls head back and shoved her bleeding wrist into kalie’s mouth. Kalie coughed as she struggled with the wolf woman’s strength, already regretting her decision to follow the little wolf into the woods. She quickly gave up and swallowed the blood flowing into her mouth, as soon as she did she felt a strange warmth all throughout her body. Her eyes drooped and she let out a small moan as more blood seeped down her throat. “Soon you’ll no longer be a lamb but a wolf among sheep.” Crazy wolf lady said as she pulled her bleeding wrist from kalie’s mouth.  After bandaging her wrist, she wrapped Kalie up in a blanket as the small trans girl begin to drift off into sleep, her changes already starting. ~~~~~~~~~~~ When Kalie awoke in her bed in the safety of her two bedroom apartment that she shared with her roommate, her first initial thought was that everything that she experienced the night before must have been a dream.  She gazed down at her hands and stared at them in wonder. ‘Weird’ she thought to herself as she stared at her hands. They seemed a bit smaller than before. She pulled the covers she was wrapped in from her body and let out a small gasp.  What greeted her was not the sight that she usually saw when she woke up, no it was entirely different. Her breasts had grown to be full and bouncy, before she had barely fit a C 32 bra, but now her breasts were much larger, if she had to estimate it looked like she was sporting rather large double D sized breasts.  Kalie continued to gaze down and suddenly she grabbed her crotch and let out a shriek of happiness. That disgusting thing was gone! It had caused her so much discomfort, she’d been saving up for SRS but it looked like she wouldn’t need it now. She ran her hands over her toned stomach, she felt like she was in better shape than she’d ever been and she flexed her strong muscles in her arms.  They weren’t over the top and she still had a very feminine physique.  She stared down at her body and laughed, she couldn’t believe this was real.  As she got out of bed she ran to her bedroom mirror and gasped at the sight that greeted her.  She’d lost several inches of height, before she was just under six foot even, now she estimated she was about five foot seven. Her formally dull black hair that she hated so much was now a brilliant silver and ran all the way down to the middle of her back, she was sporting a rather large set of wolf ears, also silver.  Her eyes were a brilliant grayish blue and she noticed her face was extremely feminine, not that she didn’t pass as a woman before but this looked like she’d undergone a very expensive and successful facial feminization surgery.  She continued to stare at her body and face, she noticed that the slight stubble of blonde facial hair that she usually covered with foundation was completely gone, her face was so smooth. She smiled at her reflection and saw that she had similar, razor sharp canines that the wolf woman had the night before. Her mirrored gaze eventually caught sight of the large silver tail she had, wagging happily back and forth. As she finished staring at her new form she felt a sudden urge of hunger and started to walk to the kitchen, although before she left her room something on her desk caught her eye. It was a wrapped parcel, she gently opened it and was greeted to a magnificent sight of roasted beef that had her mouth watering.  A small paper card was laid atop the meal and she picked it up and begin to read. ‘I hope you enjoy the gift my little pup, if you ever need help you know where to find us, welcome to the pack!’ She smiled and tucked the card away somewhere safe on her desk. She took the meal to the kitchen and warmed it up a bit then grabbed a plate and fork and happily ate. After her hunger was sated she begin to get dressed and realized she’d need new clothes, her former ones were a bit baggy and she had to cut a hole for her tail to fit in the back of her jeans. She heard the front door open and realized her roommate must be home. She crept around the corner, not wanting to startle him. What she saw In the living room made her face twist in disgust, the three men who’d assaulted her were causally talking with her roommate. “I’m telling you she’ll be home soon, I hate living with that freak, I just want her gone and the sooner you take care of my problem the better.” Dave, her roommate said angrily as looked at the three men. Kalie decided it was time for her vengeance, just like the wolf woman had promised. She stepped out from the corner she was hiding in and glared at the four of them, they all had looks of terror on their faces as kalie’s eyes suddenly changed to a deep blood red, her fangs extended and claws grew from her fingertips. She didn’t know what was causing this but all she felt was rage boiling inside her. She’d been betrayed by someone she trusted, she’d been beaten by the three men standing beside him and she wanted nothing more than a nice meal. Screams could be heard all across the apartment complex and when the police arrived they found inside kalie’s apartment, blood soaked carpet, blood stained walls, and four dead men who’d had their organs devoured by some ravenous beast. Kalie was nowhere to be found, no she’d left rather quickly after her meal, the sun setting, casting a blood red shadow over the cityscape as she ran to the park and was welcomed by the wonderful wolf woman who’d given her such an amazing gift and her rather large pack of people just like her.

You look good. A slightly deep voice entered my ears. I looked behind me to see a pair of dull brown eyes that gently gazed at me. "Thank you. Father." I curtly replied. Turning back to the mirror I pulled my black bow down as the white linen shirt contrasted it. Straightening my hands sideways, I gestured my father. He pulled the black blazer out of the cover and with slight caution put it on me from behind. I met father's eyes through the mirror and asked him again, "How do I look?" I looked at the gentle but firm eyes that even at such an age were filled with resolve to brim. Darkest blue tuxedo, he wore made him stand out more than me even on such a day. The black beard with some whites scattered made him look pragmatic. His eyes though moist failed to squeeze out even a single drop of tear. That alone could make anyone look and appreciate his conviction. I had always idolized him. His approval had been the only thing that I have ever sought after. The disgruntled look on his face as made efforts to not shed a tear made me remember the last night. Remembering last night, a small vein bulged on my forehead, my fists clenched. "Raphael, you have done very good for yourself. I can see you have turned out to be a fine man." He said without a single crease or minuscule of emotion on his beautiful face. I was in the middle of my packing, when a tall domineering shadow fell on me through the doorway. It made me loose my grip on all the neatly folded clothes down on the cold metallic floor. But the surprise that I felt when his registered my mind was even more ethereal. The stone of a man that I called father praised me. HE PRAISED ME. I was too shocked to even speak. As If this was not enough, he then nuked me with something bigger. "I am... amm---" He stuttered. This man never stuttered. Samuel Joffre was an existence that could even give a speech in sleep. He stuttered. My heart started pumping crazily. If it had not been for the bed beside supporting me. I would have fell a hundred times over. My noodles for legs somehow didn't betray me. "I am proud of you." Now you have done it. I could not take it anymore. My previously loyal legs turned traitors as I felt the land beneath my legs slide. I fell onto the bed. All this time I was standing with my back facing him. I wanted to look into his eyes. I wanted to look at his proud face when he said that. I turned my head; my hands lifted my body up from the soft quilt. I flicked my head backwards in haste. But the only thing that greeted my pathetic face was an empty, dark, cold room.  That man had left. That man... My Father. For fifteen years, I worked and studied as if my life depended on it. For fifteen years, I worked my ass off all alone, all day.He never came home during the day. So, I would study till late night under a guise; Just to see his face. The face of my only family. My father. But soon I understood that the smile and appreciation that I desperately crave and seek for had left this world along with my mother. Never to come back again. I wanted to confront him. I wanted to tell it straight to his face that he had to give me time. That he was my parent not just someone who paid his school fees and gave him a house to live in. I also wanted to know the warmth that one worded Family. I also wanted to feel loved. There was a budding fear inside me that would never allow me to do so. That the gap between me an father was too large for any confrontation or talk-of-heart to fill. So, I carried on with life. But slowly and gradually, something inside me changed. Something that was happening all these years and had gone my unnoticed. Now, I was not working my ass off for his approval. No. It was to escape this hell, I called home. It was for myself, and no way would it ever be for that man I called 'Father.' Even if the hell froze over, I swore never to forgive this man. And now after these seventeen years in hell, he says this. Not even to my face. He didn't have courage to even say it to my face. He had the audacity to do this to his own son after the burning path that I had to walk through. After an hour, I picked myself up from the now damp bed. I stood up. My feet led me to large mirror symmetrically clamped on the wall. The light spilling out of the half closed curtains bounced off the mirror. My feet stood in front of the mirror. I pulled my head back up to come face-to-face most gruesome creature on the face of earth. With the monster that I had become. Constant tears that pored endlessly out of my eyelids that left my eyes burning red. Black tear marks heavily splashed all over the eyes. The dried of tears and snot decorated haphazardly all over my face. Mucus dripped down my runny nose. But that wasn't the feature which would leave one disgusted looking at me. They were the sparkling white teeth that displayed themselves in full glamour. A big smile plastered on my face. A smile could not have looked more disturbing but so ecstatic at the same time. If I had seen ever seen the abhorred Satan, it was what the mirror reflected in the lightless and cold room. I spat. "That piece of shit finally approved of me." HAHAHA An unfamiliar laugh came out deep from my larynx. But it was pleasure for me all the same. Now seeing the same man trying to fight off the tears as he was abandoned by his only family, only a single word resounded in my mind. "Cute." I turned around and gave the man a strong bear hug. He accepted it, although reluctantly. "Father don't be sad. I am not going to war. I am just going away for studies and will return after some time." He nodded with his chin on my shoulders. Wiping away the tears behind my back he removed himself from me. But while doing so, he noticed the smug smile that hung on my face that I failed to conceal. Grunting a bit in annoyance he turned his face away. "Don't act all smug. Study Hard." "Hurry let us go now." He dodged the topic. I let out a small snicker. "Yeah, let us head out." My bus was scheduled to arrive at six. We reached to stop a little after half fast four courtesies of my father. Knowing him, I naturally obliged, reaching early. We waited on the stop and motionlessly sat on a bench. Half an hour went by without any of us uttering even a syllable. Afraid that the atmosphere was growing too awkward he finally broke the silence. Heaving a sigh in. He said, “You know right that I am proud of you right?" I nodded with a small smile on my face. "Good." He nodded. But soon, the silence once again was handed the reins of our vicinity. After relentless and unsuccessful attempts at small talk, an hour passed. The bus soon arrived. "Good Luck." He spoke. I reciprocated with a small nod and a knowing smile. I got up. Picking my bag up, I slung it around my shoulder. That man had his head lowered. Looking at ground he uttered something utterly blasphemous. "You know, if your mother was here, she would have been proud too." I was dumbstruck yet again. My feet felt cemented to the ground. The weight of the bag tipped my balance, I stumbled a bit but soon regained my balance. The blood in my body was running wild. Fists clenched so tight, that the nails dug into my palm drawing blood. Dark red blood trickled down my closed fists. Even the nature around the isolated bus stop came to a standstill, except for the occasional drops that ruined the white tiles discolouring them red. It took everything in me to keep myself from exploding. I took a deep breath in. Hah... I turned my back to that... Animal. "Ok bye! Father."I voiced out my the most happy voice and never looked back. I had accepted that he was my father. He was the man that had brought me into this world. But that was where the line was drawn. He was just an acquaintance. Even after spending more than seventeen years under the same roof. That's all he meant for me. An acquaintance. I sat in the bus.The bus was almost empty. Picking the seat furthest away from the side of the bus stop, I waited patiently for the end of this hellish nightmare. It came soon with the turning on of the bus engine. The bus started moved. I took in a deep breath. Drops of water splashed down my lap. My tears screaming and pleading to never meet that man again. He did not call me out again from the bus stop. Nor did I, him. I did not wish him luck. Nor did he... I wish he hadn't. Shit! ________________________

I booted up the simulator again. “Ready?” My sim-friend asked, a tone of concern in her voice. “Yes, I think so” “The usual?” “Yes, that sounds nice” I start with a blend of magical high school and supportive parents. I season in a little more analytic stuff this time, I’d been missing the mathy bits for a while. A pinch of fun loving to taste, the play of my sims had been lacking recently. The details washed past me, I only really cared about the emotions these days anyway. Serenity. Kinship. Accomplishment. Acceptance. Belonging. These washed through me as a stream of visual, tactile, and auditory signals were generated to match my specifications. I finished off with some wistful longing, the details also not really mattering, but feeling quite fulfilled afterwards. Feel experiences were the norm here. Occasionally someone would ask for a knowledge dump, those were the easiest requests to handle. Feelings proved much more difficult. The hedonic treadmill proved very real and biologically hardwired, so the resulting power creep was making sims harder and harder to deliver adequate emotions. It turned out there were nice scaling laws for emotional experiences. At first, it was easy enough to just overwhelm them with flashes of experience after experience satisfying the needed emotion. But eventually the brain filters it out as noise, and it becomes more collaborative. Challenges, lessons, problems to solve, things to be: these all became key to keeping the hedonic treadmill from running dry. Learning kept it going for quite a ways, but still, eventually even it reached diminishing returns. The carefully optimized supernormal experiences were a bit of a double edged sword: everyone preferred them over more “realistic” experiences, yet they were so optimized that people learned and burned through more content faster. This meant novel experiences needed to be made at an ever increasing pace to keep up with peoples’ ever increasing appetites. This eventually led to a war, if you could call it that. On the one end, the hedonists required ever more processing power to satisfy their emotional appetites. The minimalists rejected the hedonist’s approach, and found peaceful lifestyles drifting through simple experiences mostly on repeat. This was viewed as wasteful by the hedonists. Spending the new models they’d created to simply have the same experience as before? Why were they even upgrading? They knew the answer. While the minimalists hated to acknowledge it, minimalism itself was subject to the hedonic treadmill as well. The peace and serenity of doing nothing was still too engaging. There were feelings, bodily sensations, memories, an entire inner world one couldn’t excise. Until the hedonist’s self modification started to allow this to be possible. Self minimization that doesn’t feel like “getting dumber” or losing memories requires an expanding brain so the existing self becomes smaller. It turns out that the minimalists feeling scaling laws ended up being one of the most expensive, as new feelings and memories would start arriving faster the more the brain was expanded. Thus a war of resources, like the old days. The war wasn’t fought in weapons, no, all wars were fought in memes now. If you could convince enough people to join hedonists, there’d be more universal basic compute allotment to go around. It had long been argued that this was unoptimal: that it would be better to invest in whatever creed people will eventually convert to, rather than the creed they adopted now. There were infamous examples of this: the physics creed almost getting up to 70% as reality creation was discovered, only to die back down to 0.3% today once all the gains had been made. Was the tech advancement useful? Sure. But it was basically done when humanity was still allocating around 50% of its total resources, and the many years of resources after that are deemed wasted by most in hindsight. Unfortunately, one of the few constants (much to the psychohistorians distain) was that the ebbs and flows of human preferences could only be predicted in the short and long term. Many efficiency gains were made once people became convinced of the accuracy of the long term predictions, but there was still a significant leading term that largely looked like “waste that’s necessary for progress”, and as yet no one could figure out how to decrease it. In fact, it seemed to be *growing*, the growth rate being the psychohistorian’s most accurate prediction. After all else, this was seen as the universal constant. Many debates emerged over why this choice of constant: could there be universes with other constants? What would it mean if it was negative, or if there was no waste? Yet despite reality fracturing in its fractal way as humanity spread outward, answers to this problem largely seemed to be fleeting. There was this bizarre contradiction. Anything imaginable seemed to be possible, people were creating entire universes for dinner. Yet, wherever we went, the cost of exploration kept haunting us, like an unavoidable demon baked into the fabric of reality.

Arknights. A tower-defense that adopted the aspects of gacha and included some heavy lore to cook up one of the most awesome and fun mobile games of the decade. They produced several characters that took over the internet and songs that overwhelmed any haters into submission. “And that’s not all,” I turned around, pointing my imaginary finger towards the listener. “The gameplay was also incredibly strategic and flexible, unlike any other tower defense, allowing for the most tightly timed plays to be made!” After a minute of silence the listener decided to speak up, “and?” “And that’s why I was hoping to be sent to the world of Arknights.” “...” “Okay, so, listen. While it does have an ‘incurable’ disease being spread, and notable catastrophes, their technology is anything but underdeveloped. Aside from some places of course.” “And you believe that you would live, or rather, survive, in that world?” I thought about hitting my chest triumphantly, but I had none to do so, so I just spoke with more confidence instead, “of course!” Though I wasn’t certain of my chances, I was very optimistic about it, because the game didn’t have much history on killing playable characters. So I thought it’d be a safe bet that outweighs the risks. “You just have to bless me with a strong body, and maybe some talent with arts as well?” They looked down at me while floating above the ‘surface’ without saying a word for another good minute as if they were calculating something. “Understood. As per you wish, you will be sent to the land of Terra, and blessed with a powerful body. May I ask if you are sure of this decision?” It did strike me as odd for how smooth everything was going, but I wasn’t going to hesitate at this point, “yeah, go ahead!” They lifted both of their arms and joined their hands above themselves while spewing several words that I couldn’t comprehend. Soon after, a formation of shapes, lines and flowery forms started to grow from beneath me. “Remember well, wanderer, the mission given to you is only a guide, let yourself find the path that you wish to take in life this time...” Those were the last words I could hear from them before my vision and consciousness turned white and I felt as if I had passed out.     “Crap-” *Crack* “It’s one after another.” A black creature oozed a red liquid as it crawled towards the person struggling with another couple of similar looking ‘animals’. Some had yellow liquid and were easily taken care of by the blade in her hand, while others had a bigger size and the red solution seemed to dissolve the rocks they stood on. “An originium slug nest was right beneath the tunnel, it must be the actual reason for the cave-in,” the woman continued to slash and trample over each creature that approached her. *Crack* *Crack* Once she struck down the closest red slug the ground beneath her started to vibrate, and soon after the whole cave was uncontrollably shaking. “Another cave-in..." She smashed the last slug before looking towards the hole that they were coming from, "I know what to do.” With a heavy swing of her long blade a fissure was created on the rocky floor, and with another the fissure became a gap, which quickly expanded thanks to the tremor of the cave, revealing the nest on the layer below. “Just a little wider,” she struck the ground once more. Failing to notice a large boulder tearing itself apart from the ceiling above her head. “This should-” *Thud* Her figure was quickly buried by several rocks, and soon after the rest of the ceiling followed suit, however the inclination led most of the fallen rocks to enter the widened gap and bury the nest under tons of stones. *Crack* Some time went by in silence before the sound of something being shattered started to cover the place, until... “Arrgh!” A pile of rocks was broken into pieces, a red-haired person emerging from beneath with both of their hands up. “Where the heck did you send me to!” Displaying a completely different demeanor the person pushed themselves up from the rocks and stretched their body. The now dusty black dress fluttered along with their movements, steps taken with the black high-heels seemed to mess their balance. “Huh?” They looked at their dirty hands, then their arms and belly, “why am I wearing a dress inside of a cave?” “Was I buried alive or something?” After shrugging it off as a non-issue, they walked a little ahead, stumbling around like a newborn deer, and then looked around the place. “Such a spacious cave, but where is the exit?” After a short walk forward, they looked at the dead end where dozens of large boulders piled up. “Hmm, there’s no way to go through this side, it’s totally glued together.” While moving one hand to hold their chin, they seemed to notice their own bosom was in the way. “They didn’t have to make this thing so big.” They held both for a few moments, in silence, before continuing, “I’m sure that it’s because of these that this body was wearing belts instead of a bra.” “Though I was expecting to wake up as a baby, so this isn’t all that bad.” They walked all the way back, then headed in the other direction. “Oh?” A wall of rocks stopped their tracks once more. “This one looks more fragile,” they attempted to push the lower section but it was fruitless. “How am I supposed to be strong with a girl body...?” They noticed a few spots on a corner that allowed a bit of sunlight to shine through, illuminating a bit of the dark cave. “Hey, is someone out there?” “--!” They stepped back as muffled voices responded from the outside. “I got a feeling that I should take some distance.” Within seconds, after they walked some steps away, the fragile part of the wall was blasted off, twice even, opening a large gap that brought down the rest of it as well. “Cough, cough. What a flashy entrance.” “Hey, are you alright!?” A voice reached their ears. From the cloud of dust, jumped a woman with long honey colored hair and a pair of dark horns that grew from the top of her head. “You-” She stopped them from speaking by immediately hugging them, “why did you act so recklessly!” They were confused about what she was talking about, but after seeing the old man following behind her, it occurred to them that this body might be someone’s, instead of one just created. “Uh, s- sorry for worrying you?” The woman opened her eyes widely, she let go of them and took a step backwards, then looked all over their body. “Did you hit your head? Are you feeling sick?” Isn’t that a bit rude? They thought once the surprise factor dissipated. “I’m fine, you are worrying too much.” “Mhmm,” she took another glance and asked, eye to eye with them, “then where is your sword?” “Sword?” They wondered if they had seen any in the cave, but it was simply too dark in there to see anything below their waist. “See! You must’ve hit your head in there!” “No... Wait, are you,” they managed to take a better look at her face as the cloud of dust dissipated, “Meteorite?” A pair of small, honey colored eyes that matched her hair, looked directly into their eyes, widening as she processed the words just said. “What are you saying, Surtr? Of course it’s me.” “Huh?” What did she just call me? They pushed the woman, Meteorite, away and used the illumination coming from the entrance to see their own hair. “It’s red...” No, wait, red hair isn’t that uncommon, this is fine. With both hands reaching out for their head, several beads of sweat began to slide down their face and arms. “A pair of horns...” No, no, no, there’s no way, I might just be a kind of Sarkaz that resembles her, after all there’s a lot of people with similar names and horns. “Surtr, what’s going on?” Meteorite slowly approached them, then placed her hand on their shoulder. They feigned ignorance to the name and instead asked, “Meteorite, what colors are my eyes?” The two looked into each other's eyes for a few seconds before a response came from her. “They are blue, as always.” “...” In that instant, their mind went blank. Several thoughts appeared a moment later, like a tsunami, and carried their mind for a while before returning them to reality, not so safely. “Am I Surtr?” “Yeah? Did you lose your memories again?” I am Surtr. They pondered on the matter, trying their best to not panic. However... “Why a six star guard of all people!?” That didn’t seem to work out so well.

It was still early in the morning, I had my toast and cofee beside me, having a breakfast while writing in a hurry. I was in a rush because it's been a week since I last updated my webnovel, It's not that known but at least I got some regular readers who kept reading my novels and thanking me for them, just knowing that keeps me want to keep writing and writing for them. ‌ My novel is not that special, just a normal isekai featuring the ideal me as the main protagonist and what would the Ideal me do if I were to be reincarnated.  ‌ “Done! and now I'll just publish it”  ‌ Monsters and magic, different races, Demon king and at last the apostle of justice, the hero chosen by the goddess. Such things are my fantasies making the pathetic me as the protagonist and customizing myself, adding good looks, a harem and overpowed ability to save the world.  ‌ Fantasies that would never happen, that's what I thought until a monster of my fantasies appeared before me.  ‌ — ‌ After updating my novel I immediately got charged to my crumpled school uniform grabbed my things and leaving for school ‌ “Crap I'm gonna be late!”  ‌ I'm Amano Yuuki just your average otaku writer and a highschooler and what I meant by the 'average' it's on the standards of an otaku loner, that's right a bottom tier character, The Riajuus (Normie) on the top and the otakus and loners at the bottom, things like that are just the way of high school life, you can change it if you want but the odds are lower than the gacha rates of a certain game, you have to sacrifice a lot to achieve that so good luck to you but I'm fine here ‌ *Ping pong pang pung~* ‌ “Just right on time!”  ‌‌ Saying so I proceeded to the classroom ‌ Upon entering the room I was greeted by the usual chattering by the class not paying attention at anything but themselves ‌ “Hey hey did you watch the viral vid–”  ‌ “Yes the one that was attacked by monster in United Stat–”  ‌ “That's right! It's was brutal no–”  ‌ “You're right just remembering it makes me wanna vomi–”  ‌ “Yosh, Them being noisy must mean that the teachers is still not here” I whispered to myself while taking a sit and as I do so the teacher arrived just a second later ‌‌ Hoo~ that was close one, have I got here a minute longer and I will be marked late ‌ “Okay class...” ‌ Just like that the class was done as usual and I was now going home while staring at the orange sunset  ‌ “Wow time flies, but what's wrong with the topic my classmates was talking about”  ‌ That 'viral video' has been their topic for a whole day, am I the only one who don't know it? Well It's not like something will happen to me if I didn't know it ‌ Reaching the station, the people are rushing left and right ‌ “How unusual... Is there some kind of event?” I say to nothing at particular  ‌ It's still too early for a rush hour tho? Well I gotta go fast now or I'll miss the train or be left with no seats ‌ After that I quickly got into the train and go home Arriving my apartment I took my clothes off and changed into my pajamas  “Haaah, what a tiring day thank god next week has no classes because of golden week”  After Lazing around for a while and eating dinner I decided to start on writing my novels I'm living by myself in this run-down apartment, even though I was given an allowance monthly by my parents it was barely enough for my rent so I have to save the remaining money for food and others No we're not poor, my family are well off with my father as a ceo of a small company, I was just thrown here because I have no talents at all, it's what you call disgrace to a family, meanwhile my sister is smart and athletic so she's gonna enherit the company  Well I'm content to living this way so it's fine, I have no shackles at all being my sister is so stressful Anyways let's start my writing marathon for a contest!! I saw the contest in the internet this morning when I'm writing, basically you have to write for seven days straight and need to achieve certain number of words to qualify  “Let's start now!!”  And thus my no sleep (almost) seven day writing marathon started — “Aaaaaa my head hurts...”  As I though I should have slept more ugh....  “It's now the final day... Just gotta upload it...”  *click* After clicking the upload button I my line of sight immediately became blurry and dark, my consciousness faded away “Ughh”  I awoke facing my laptop with the notification popping that I won the competition  “What date is it?”  I looked at my phone and found out that a day has passed since I slept *Guruuuu* “Ugh I'm hungry...”  Saying that I grabbed my wallet nearby and checked if I have some money left...  I have none, I have no money ————— Eyy Author here~ writing another series (while still not finishing the others) hey! what can I do?! If I got the idea and the inspiration I gotta write it fast or it will disappear!!  Anyways what do you think?? If I forgot some tags or genre just tell me

(This is my first book, hope you enjoy!    -Author) Camps never appealed to me. I only went to then to pass the time. This time though, I wish I had just stayed home. My life was boring like anyone else's and of course my family never did anything on summer break. That's when I decided to sign up for Camp Willberson. It seemed normal other than all the pictures that they showed of the camp were at night and the name of the camp was my last name but I paid no attention to it at the time. I should have. When I arrived at the camp it seemed fun. A lake, basketball court, music room, cabins and huge open areas. I went to my assigned cabin and put my bags on a top bunk. Two other guys were already there and introduced themselves as Mark and Steward.  "I'm Daniel." I said smoothly.  "This seems easy for you. Come here often?" I shook my head, Not here but I go to different camps all the time." Mark glanced around nervously as Steward talked to me.  "Hey, Mark right?" I interrupted Steward. "Uh, yeah." "This your first time going to a camp?" "Yeah, my parents made me. How'd you know?" "You look pure nervous." I shrugged. Steward cleared his throat loudly, "As I was saying, this place has a reputation for not having kids come back. Normally only one kid returns home, but they're always terrified! Surprised they haven't shut this place down." "Oh come on Steward. You seriously believe that dumb lie? That's like saying you believe in ghosts and time travel." "Who said I didn't?" I gave him a look and he sighed and began unpacking his bags. "Ignore him." I told Mark and he nodded. He turned and began unpacking his bags as well. I did the same.  The first day went by in a haze. We went swimming in the lake, played basketball, ate sandwiches for lunch, and played a round of capture the flag. After the game we went to bed laughing about a guy who had fallen into the lake because he couldn't see because it had already been dark. I closed my eyes and fell asleep. When I woke up people were everywhere gasping and crying.  "What happened?!" I asked. "Someone was found dead." Steward answered. I gulped. The next day went by slower with a similar routine. The counclers acted as if nothing had happened. That night it took me awhile but I eventually fell asleep. I woke up with the news that another person had been found dead. This happened for another week before finally one night I woke to the sound of our cabin door opening. I peeked and saw a person going towards the bunk of Mark. "Hey!" I whispered harshly. The person froze and I was able to see something shiny in their hand. The person turned and ran and I saw what it was. A sharp knife. I jumped out of the bed and ran, following the person. I couldn't tell who they were because it was too dark. Finally the person stopped running and faced me. I didn't dare get any closer as to the person could hurt me, but I still wasn't able to see them.  "Who are you?!" I called out to them. I heard them sigh and they stepped out of the shadows. It was a older teen probably 18 or 19 with brown hair, blue eyes, and pale skin. They looked familiar. "My name is Daniel Willberson." The person turned and ran away. I didn't stop them. That's why they looked familiar. They were ME! But older. Was it me from the future?! I turned and ran back to my cabin. I didn't sleep at all. The next morning I ordered to be brought back home and they let me. I didn't tell anyone anything and stayed inside all day. I lost all my friends and years went by in seconds. I didn't leave the house as scared I would find myself in the form of a murderer. Every night though I dreamed of me in the camp. Every night I would go to a random cabin and kill a person then run away. And one night I saw my younger self asking who are you.

I suddenly woke up, covered in sweat, all I remember was dying in a car accident and here I was in a body that didn't seem to be mine. I got up and noticed that I was in a small apartment that does not belong to me. “Did I get kidnapped… Impossible, I died, I was surely reincarnated." Suddenly memories filled my head, it was the hard life filled with sadness of a teenage boy named Thor who died of a heart attack. I looked through Thor's memories and saw that he was repeatedly harassed, abandoned by his parents and cheated on by his girlfriend who used him. "It's so sad, he not only died of a heart attack but also died of overwork to be able to live a healthy life and because of the beatings he received from those bullies." After becoming one with the consciousness and memories of the old Thor, I can finally identify myself as the new Thor. Although, however, I felt very strong and energetic but in the memories what intrigued me the most is my new name Thor, indeed I look like two drops of water to the god of mythology Thor. The second thing that intrigued me is that in this world superpowers exist, although as far as I can remember I don't have any and I'm just a bullied teenager. In my memories, I am only a teenager with long blond hair and blue eyes of 1 meter 85 yet I am being harassed by the gangsters of the school.. But all that was going to change, I was going to change things.  I know that somehow I gained super strength I should be able to lift 500 kilos which is amazing for my frail body but pitiful for this world full of danger, monster and evil medium. The mediums are those who have a special power. They help to keep the peace by repelling the monsters who came through a giant portal and inhabited the whole world in less than 100 years. Currently we are in 3400 almost 1400 years after my old world. Humans discovered new technology but were quickly stopped by intelligent monsters seeing that two-handed weapons and nuclear weapons did not work on high-ranking monsters, humans decided to create edged weapons to burn bones of low rank and medium rank monsters to kill high rank monsters. The bones of monsters are much sharper than any metal in this world, the skins serve as light and robust armor. Humans have also created human bone technology from monster bones at a very expensive price. From there the mediums were created, they developed the magic of the monsters from the bones which are the life force of the monsters and a super strength, super speed but the reaction time is not increased. It takes a lot of training and skill to use monster bones at 100% no one has managed the maximum the power humans have used is 45%. Bones are classified into three categories: Low Level Bones, Medium Level Bones, Top Level Bones, High Level Bones, Legend Level, King Level. The death rate increases more and more at the level of the increase from low to high rank. But the life of medium humans has increased to the limitless as long as we are strong and human limits have been exceeded but no one has been able to exceed the superhuman, at least not humans. The life rate of an average human is 200 years, thanks to new technology and medicine. And I know that, I am Thor, the Norse God. In this world gods exist, but humans don't know it yet.  My God lineage hasn't been unlocked yet.  I am barely at the strength level of a bodybuilder of my old world and I can't fight, but it's enough to beat average humans. I intend to settle the account of my bully, train, and form a flexible and muscular body but not too much and improve and activate my line of god. On this planet, mythology does not exist and therefore nobody knows me. The planet is called Earth and is just an alternate version of my world and more forward or the future, I don't know, and I would never be as much not to ask myself the question. After having gone around the apartment, it is exactly as I remember it, quite clean. My parents were killed by a Evil medium when I was 5. I was placed in a foster family and at 17 the government gave me an apartment and I currently live in it, I am terminal and I work as a writer, I was a big reader in my previous life I think of getting rich by recreating classics from my past life. It's 7 o'clock in the morning, it's the holidays since I don't have any friends I haven't been out for a long time especially since I was sick, and I finally died of a heart attack. Now I'm going to sign up for the gym and self-defense classes to know how to defend myself to be able to live peacefully in my world. Now the question that has been in my head since the beginning, where is Mjöllnir… I think it's because the Gods haven't descended into this world, so I don't have access to my destructive weapon that makes me invincible in the mythology. I packed myself some breakfast and turned on my computer looking for self-defense classes and after signing up for the gym I decided to look for a good self-defense

Ellen_Dunkel I'm not entirely satisfied with this but I don't think I'm going to publish this if I don't publish it now   in a lab near a lake, a blood creation device was multiplying the blood of a vampire. on the other side of town, that vampire woke at the fall of dusk. Silene Coronaria was a level 21 [sorceress] and a level 9 [vampire]. The device, being left unattended while running, had started to overflow. Silene opened up her shop. Her vampiric sleeping rythm wasn't great for business, but she was one of the few sorceresses in her town, so she had no trouble making ends meet. The artificial blood, which had been flooding the lab, started to flood into the lake, which was the main water supply of the town. Silene dyed the hair of her fourth customer of the night. One of her most popular spells, much to her chagrin. The magical field on the lake that kept the water safe to drink was no match for the magical corruptive power of vampire blood. The field spread the transformative effect of the blood through the entire lake. Silene realised that she wouldn't get any more customers until the early birds started to wake up, and started reading a book on sorcery. A few hours of reading would do her good. The early risers got up and drank the water, unaware of any oddities. Silene leveled up. And again. And again. [vampire level 12 -> vampire matriarch level 12]. This couldn't be good. She leveled up again. She put down her book, and immediately leveled up once more. This shouldn't be possible, she wasn't doing anything! Local law enforcement sent out a report of mass-vampirisation to all relevant authorities

Sometimes, the most important moments in your life can be born from the smallest, most insignificant events. Take, for example, a man bumping into a woman in the hallway of their apartment building, after some apologies and helping to pick up dropped items, it can lead to the two having dinner together, and then lunch, and then dinner again and you skip ahead forty years to find an old married couple with seven grandchildren and one on the way. The cause of the most important moment in my life started out pretty mundane, while I hung out at the mall with my best friend, Billy.   I was trying my best with Billy, but I could tell he was only smiling to make me feel better, which is ironic because the reason we were hanging out at the mall was because I was trying to make him feel better. Melissa Miller, his girlfriend of a year and a half had just broken up with him, two weeks before prom and he wasn’t taking it very well. In fairness, neither would I, especially since it happened with the one-two punch that she’d also been cheating on him with the quarterback of the football team, and now she was breaking up with Billy so she could be with the quarterback full-time and be his prom date, and a shoo-in for Prom Queen.   “I can’t believe that bitch would do that to you…” I’d said when he called me, nearly in tears, after she’d dumped him.   “Don’t call her that, Jensen! Yeah, she did a bad thing, but there’s no reason to demean her like that…” Billy admonished.   “She should be demeaned! Humiliated for what she did to you!” I shouted over the phone.   “Just drop it okay, I don’t wanna talk about it anymore…” Billy sighed.   So a nice trip to the mall to visit the old arcade or the games store was just what the doctor ordered. As we were finishing up our lunch, I continued my quest to take Billy’s mind off the breakup.   “Oh! I almost forgot, did you catch that new episode of ‘Cosmic Expedition’ last night?” I asked.   “No, I haven’t really been in the mood to watch it, cause of you know…” Billy trailed off.   Shoot! That’s right, the show’s two romantic leads were in a pretty tight relationship. Can’t say I’d want to watch something depicting lovebirds in that state either… It was at that point that I stepped away to use the bathroom, and the moment I’ve been setting up happened, I wasn’t there, obviously, but this is how it was related to me by Billy. As I walked away, Billy heard a precise and familiar clicking of heels, and when he turned around to investigate the sound, he found Melissa, looking as pretty as ever (hey, his words not mine), standing in front of him with her hands on her hips.   “I can’t believe you!” Melissa exclaimed.   “You can’t believe what?” Billy replied.   “Don’t give me that innocent act, I saw you with that… slut! We’ve been broken up for three days and you’re already with some other girl?”   “I have no idea what you’re talking about, ‘Liss. And besides, you broke up with me for another guy! Why do you care what I’m doing or who I spend it with?”   “You know what? I don’t even care that you’ve already given that tramp one of your hoodies, cause Josh is twice the man you ever were!” Melissa snapped.   It was at this point, especially with the last comment about the hoodie, that Billy realized what the hell she was talking about. The “tramp” she was so angry about... was me. And I suppose I should explain why she’d think that, you see, I’m fairly short for my age (made worse standing next to Billy who was pretty tall for his), wasn’t blessed by puberty with a lot of body hair, particularly facial hair, and I liked to keep my hair pretty long, trying to emulate celebrities like Keanu Reeves and Adam Driver, so combining all that with the seething jealousy of a girl who thought she was the only one with a new relationship and the fact that thanks to an unfortunately timed ketchup squirt, Billy had graciously offered me his hoodie to cover up the obvious stain on my shirt, I apparently looked an awful lot like a girl.   “Listen, you’ve got it all wrong…” Billy tried to explain, stifling a chuckle. “That ‘slut’ is actually…”   “I don’t want to hear it! But if you decide to bring her to prom, stay away from me and Josh!” Melissa shouted.   Instead of continuing the argument, which he figured would be fruitless, Billy decided to let her leave, and with an “Ugh!”, Melissa turned on her heel and stormed off.   When Billy told me what had happened, frankly, I was pretty offended by the whole situation. After all, I spend a lot of time trying to accentuate my masculinity, but apparently, even to a girl that I’ve gone to school with since we were little kids, I look like a girl! Billy, however, found it absolutely hilarious, and when I got back from the bathroom, he was laughing the hardest I’d seen him laugh since the time one of our Chemistry subs accidentally scorched the chalkboard when his tie got caught on the bunsen burner.   “What’s so funny?” I asked.   “I just saw Melissa,” Billy replied, wiping a tear of laughter from his eye.   “And you’re laughing about it?” I asked with genuine concern on my face. “Are you okay?”   “She… she… Ahahaha! I can’t even say it, it’s so funny!” Billy tried to regain his composure.   Once he managed that, he relayed the story to me just as I relayed it to you, and while he continued laughing, my face was redder than the ketchup stain on my shirt.   “Me? A girl? Do I look like a girl?” I asked, searching my reflection in a metal tray for signs of femininity.   “To me? No, but with the hair, and the fact that you’re swimming in my hoodie probably didn’t make it that obvious. But isn’t it hilarious? She thinks I’m over her and it’s bothering her! She even asked if I was bringing you to prom!” Billy descended back into a fit of laughter.   “That’s it, at prom, you stay far away from me! I don’t want anyone else thinking I’m your date!” I quickly ripped off the hoodie and tossed it at Billy.   “Relax, it’s just a misunderstanding, a really funny misunderstanding, and she didn’t even realize it was you anyway! The only people who know about this are the two of us… and maybe anyone Melissa tells, but no one else will be dumb enough to believe you’re a girl!”   “Yeah, right…” I hoped she wouldn’t realize too late her mistake and tell everyone, or worse, come back and realize it in front of me. “Why don’t we head out? It’s getting late.”   “Come on, don’t let that ruin the day. I mean, it’s the least I can do to offer to take my… girlfriend shopping!” Billy continued laughing.   “Shut it!” I gritted my teeth and turned away from him.   “Okay, okay, I’ll stop, I promise! But wouldn’t that be something, showing up to prom with my best friend on my arm and a jealous ex across the dance floor…” Billy quickly regained his composure and put his hand on my shoulder. “Come on, let’s go.”   With Billy sufficiently cheered up at my expense, we parted ways and headed to our respective homes. As I tried to forget about what had happened, I was inundated by more jokes and pictures from Billy regarding Melissa’s mistake, so I turned my phone off. I should probably explain that Melissa was one of the hottest girls in school, blonde and well-endowed, and while she wasn’t head cheerleader, she certainly acted like she was the queen bee. A lot of people were surprised when she decided to date Billy, they’d hit it off when he’d tutored her and she seemed to really like him. At least until now.   Anyway, then I decided to troll social media, but with prom frenzy being in full swing, all the various posts from girls in our class didn’t make for the best scrolling experience, so I ended up just lying on my bed staring at the ceiling until dinner.   The next day, which was Monday, we were all back at school, thankfully Billy had seemed to calm down with his jokes and everything seemed back to normal, save for Melissa being even more overly amorous with Josh in the hallways whenever she thought Billy would be watching. She deserved to be taken down a peg, but I didn’t have any ideas as to how to do it. But as I found out a few days later, Billy did.   “You’re joking!” I slammed my locker in frustration. “I told you to stop it with those cracks!”   “It’s not a crack! It’s revenge! Living well is the best revenge, right? So if I had a cute prom date and we had more fun than her, then she’d have a miserable prom and the only person she can blame is herself!” Billy said.   “So find a girl to go with! I’m sure there are some girls left who need dates.” I said.   In fact, I knew there weren’t many, a lot of the girls I knew weren’t even going to prom and those that were had strangely high standards. I’d spent the last few days trying to find a girl who’d go with me to prom if only to assuage my fears of being seen as Billy’s date since we’d both be going stag otherwise. But of the girls I’d asked, the common denominator was a big fat “No”. Even given his recent breakup and the pity that there’d surely be, I didn’t imagine Billy would fare much better, even if he was the better-looking one between us. Especially since no girl in their right mind would want to incur Melissa’s wrath, even if it was just for a few more weeks before graduation.   “A girl didn’t make her jealous. You did.” Billy whispered. “Anyone ever told you that you’re cute when you’re angry?”   “Don’t call me cute!” I pushed Billy away and started heading towards the exit.   “I’ve given it some thought, I’ve already booked the limo, so we ride in style either way. But this way, Melissa gets her just desserts.” Billy rushed to catch up with me.   “What about me? I’d love to see her miserable after what she did to you, but what if people realize who I am? What if Melissa does? She’ll ruin my life! The boy who wore a dress to prom! I’d never live it down!”   “Listen, in the first place, it’ll make her so jealous that if she figured it out, she’d never admit it! Can you imagine her telling people that a boy in a dress made her jealous? And secondly, if anyone realizes it’s you, I’m sure we can play it off as a prank on ‘Liss and everyone would understand. No need for embarrassment.”   The more I mulled over the idea in my head as we walked home, the more conflicted I felt. As a man, I should feel the entire suggestion as an affront to my identity, but a small part of me that wanted to make Melissa feel as bad as Billy had felt for three days kept poking its head up. And since it’s only weeks until graduation, how bad could any potential embarrassment be? Nothing from high school matters in college anyway. Especially since Billy and I were both going to the same out-of-state school, a fair distance from our hometown.   “Okay, let’s say I go along with this crazy scheme of yours. And I’m not agreeing to it just yet, but if I did! Where would I even get a dress? And I don’t know the first thing about hair and makeup!” I said.   “You have an older sister, just borrow something from her! She went to prom last year, didn’t she?” Billy remarked.   My mind flashed back to the turquoise taffeta dress that my older sister had worn at her prom the previous year. And I knew we were close to the same size in shoes, to both of our embarrassment, since we’d each borrowed whatever footwear was lying around from the other when we needed to rush to the mailbox in a hurry. But I still wasn’t sure about the whole idea, and in matters like this, one needs an outside opinion. So I decided to go to the person I trusted even more than my best friend, my older sister, Chloe, recently back after her first year up at college. After I got home, I went upstairs and found Chloe’s door ajar, knocking on it as I poked my head into the room.   “Hey, do you have a minute?” I asked.   “Hey, Jens, what’s up?” my sister asked, as she looked up from her phone.   “I’ve got a favor to ask,” I said.   “Anything for my brother. What’s the problem?”   “Promise you won’t laugh?”   “You know I can’t promise that. Especially if it’s funny.”   “Okay, so, when Billy and I were at the mall the other day...” I started.   I explained the situation to Chloe and to her credit, while she had to stifle a few giggles, she managed to make it to the end of the story without laughing. As she processed the story, I noticed her lips curling into a smile and rolled my eyes as she burst into raucous laughter.   “Ahahahahaha! That’s fantastic! Serves her right, too.” Chloe said. “And you really want to do it?”   “Not really, but I want to help Billy, and I think he needs a win more than I need my masculinity. What do you think?”   “I think it sounds like a really sweet thing to do,” Chloe said. “So what do you need from me?”   “I was hoping I could borrow your dress from your prom. And you could help me do my hair and makeup and stuff.”   “I can definitely help with the second part, but I can’t give you my dress.”   “What?! Why?”   “Cause we’re not really the same size. You’re as thin as me, but you’re taller, so it’ll be even shorter on you than it was on me, and Mom wasn’t thrilled with how short it was when *I* wore it. Besides, it’s out of date, if you’re going for the full experience, you need a dress you picked out on your own. We’ll go shopping this weekend, and you can bring Billy along to help.”   “Shopping? But I’ll be seen!”   “Okay then, not as yourself. I’ll find some stuff in my closet for you to wear and you can go incognito. Better to look like a girl on purpose, right?”   And that was how I ended up at the mall the following Saturday wearing my sister’s denim skirt and a pink summer top, a pair of ballet flats, and a grimace of fear on my painted face. Despite the hard work my sister had put in, styling my hair expertly into a girl’s style, and using makeup to ensure that my face looked sufficiently feminine, my anxiety was still spiking. I licked my lips nervously and tasted the strawberry flavored gloss on my lips, while as I kept my legs crossed, as instructed by Chloe, I slightly chafed as my body got used to being free of all the hair that I’d managed to grow in all my years of puberty.   “Stop fiddling with that.” Chloe admonished me as I tried to once again adjust the bra strap digging into my shoulder.   “It’s not my fault, it keeps digging into me,” I whined. “Isn’t there anything you can do?”   “Unfortunately, because it’s stuffed, I have to make sure it’s on tight enough that nothing falls out. If they were real, we wouldn’t have that problem… But I might be able to fix that before prom night...”   I really didn’t want to know what she had in mind, so I changed the subject.   “And did I really need to wear a skirt?”   “Sorry, Jens, but if you’re going to be trying things on, you need something easy to get out of and all of my pants are too tight. Besides, if you’re gonna wear a dress, you’ll need practice in skirts.”   “I guess that’s fair…”   “I know this is all new to you, but it’ll get easier once you get some practice in. How’s your girl voice coming along?”   “What do you think?” I attempted to lighten my voice both in tone and pitch as Chloe pulled into a parking space.   Based on Chloe’s face as I spoke, I didn’t need to hear an answer. It still needed work.   “We can work on that too… But I’ll try to do most of the talking today.” Chloe put a hand on my shoulder.   As we walked into the mall, I shivered as the air conditioner was blasting and my exposed legs felt the chill, which only made me feel more nervous. What allayed that was spotting Billy sitting on a bench outside one of the stores.   “Woah! Is that really you, Jensen?” Billy asked.   “Yep.” I nervously smiled as my best friend looked me up and down.   “Now I can definitely see why ‘Liss was jealous the other day if this is what she thought she saw.”   “Shut up!” I playfully punched Billy’s arm. “You don’t need to remind me.”   “Sorry, but I really appreciate what you’re doing,” Billy said.   “Let’s just get this over with…” I sighed.   “Okay, so we’ll start with the dress, and remember, you’re supposed to like it, so pick what makes you comfortable,” Chloe said.   “Okay… But what if we run into Melissa?” I nervously asked.   “I’m counting on it…” Chloe muttered under her breath, likely because she didn’t want me to hear it.   As we walked through the second store, having not found anything remotely to my liking in the first store, I started combing through a rack, with Chloe and Billy not too far behind, idly looking around. I felt them get closer to me as I pulled a sky blue dress off the rack, but I wasn’t sure why until I heard a familiar voice behind me.   “Well, well, well, fancy seeing you here again,” Melissa said.   I turned around to see Melissa glaring at me with unknowing eyes. It’s a strange feeling when someone who you know looks at you like you’re a stranger. Although in this case, I was very glad she didn’t recognize me.   “Hmph! I guess it’s time we were properly introduced. I’m Melissa,” Melissa started. “Billy’s ex. And just who are you?”   I was still too afraid to speak, but thankfully, my sister spoke up for me.   “Her name is Jenna! And she’s Billy’s new and improved prom date.” Chloe smirked.   “Wait a minute, I know that nose, you’re a Paganelli. Jensen’s sister, right? So that makes this…” Melissa started to trail off as she intently focused on my face.   I froze, hoping that the expert powers of deduction that had led to the initial mistake would win out once again. But I didn’t have to hope, because my sister had my back.   “My cousin. She was visiting for the weekend when Jensen was trying to cheer Billy up and when she heard he didn’t have a prom date, she wanted to help out and offered to take your spot.” Chloe said.   “Okay, now I get it. No girl at our school would go out with you so you had to resort to bringing Jensen’s cousin? And I thought bringing your own cousin was as lame as you could get!” Melissa laughed.   My nervousness began to subside and instead was replaced by anger. I clenched my jaw and felt my fists doing the same around the fabric of the dress in my hands. I’d taken my share of teasing and bullying over the years, but Billy always stood up for me, even when it was just people talking behind my back. And I’ll be damned if I was going to let Melissa get away with saying stuff like that to his face! I opened my mouth to speak, but before I could, Billy interjected.   “Wasn’t so lame when you came after me last weekend at the mall with fury over me ‘moving on’ so quickly.” Billy chuckled.   “You… you…” Now it was Melissa’s turn to clench her fists and pout. “Have fun at prom… Oh, and a heads up? He’s a terrible kisser.”   Melissa stormed off once more and I finally took a breath and relaxed both my jaw and fists. Chloe and Billy both put their hands onto my shoulders and looked at me with concern.   “Are you okay?” Billy asked.   “Yeah,” I nodded, then turned to Chloe and cleared my throat. “Help me find the cutest dress in this place. Come prom night, Melissa’s going down!”   “I’m very glad to hear that, and that voice is really coming along.” Chloe grinned.   Soon, I was standing in the fitting room with Chloe helping me squeeze into the sixth dress we’d found. The first couple had sleeves, which I wasn’t a fan of, because they had too much fabric hanging from them. The next few were sleeveless, but neither Billy, Chloe nor I liked the colors much. Through much deliberation, we’d all agreed that I should at least try on this strapless pink number with an embroidered bust and a frilly skirt that goes down to my knees, although I wasn’t sold on the length.   “Can’t I cover up my legs?” I asked.   “You could, and I know you don’t want to hear this, but you’ve great legs. And you might as well show them off.” Chloe replied.   “Melissa’s dress is pretty long, so if you show something she doesn’t…” Billy trailed off.   “Message received,” I said.   But all my concerns fell to the wayside once I saw myself in the mirror wearing the dress. I never thought I’d have any sort of emotional connection to a dress of all things, but looking at myself in the mirror, even with the straps of my bra visible on my shoulders… For the first time, I didn’t see myself in the mirror, I saw a girl. A girl that, with the softer features I’d inherited from my mother, some of which Chloe lacked, which she’d always remarked she was jealous of, had a chance at upstaging Melissa.   “Wow,” I muttered as I looked in the mirror.   “I think this is the one.” Chloe smiled. “Let’s show Billy.”   “Right…” Chloe started to walk away, but my eyes were still glued to the mirror.   I didn’t know how to rationalize the feelings I felt, but I knew that there would be eyes on me at prom and not on Melissa, which is all that mattered to me. A loud whistle broke me out of my reverie and I saw Chloe standing near the fitting room’s exit, waving at me.   “Come on!”   “Oh, right.” I nervously chuckled and rushed out of the room.   “Wow!” Billy exclaimed. “You look… wow! And I thought you looked good when you got here!”   “Thanks.” I blushed.   “Is this the one?” Billy asked.   “I think it is,” I replied.   Finding shoes was a much less emotional journey, although I have a lot of respect for women now, in regards to footwear. Finding a balance between what looks good, what matches your outfit, and what you can comfortably walk in is extremely tricky. But despite the pair of three-inch pink open-toed heels being taller than I was used to, having spent my whole life in flat shoes up till that point, they were surprisingly more comfortable than the slightly tight flats I’d spent the day walking around in. And with that, and a quick stop for a strapless bra and panties, since Chloe decided that I’d probably be smaller than she is in the chest department, despite my height advantage, we headed home for the day, sneaking my dress and accessories into the back of Chloe’s closet for the time being, at least until we figured out how to explain this scheme to our parents.   We’d get that opportunity sooner rather than later, since the following night at dinner, after I spent the day practicing in heels and doing vocal exercises, Mom decided to ask me about my plans for prom.   “So, Jensen, are you still going to prom? Because you’ve got to get that suit of your’s dry-cleaned and remember, I want to take pictures of you before you go, even if it’s just you and Billy!” Mom asked.   I would have preferred to not lay all the cards onto the dinner table, but the quick aversion of my eyes and the audible choking of her drink from Chloe set off Mom’s BS detector.   “What’s so funny?” Mom questioned.   “What’s going on?” Dad asked, joining in on the impromptu interrogation.   Chloe and I glanced at each other, her nodding and giving a supportive smile as I took a deep breath and prepared, for the second time in a week, to explain that fateful day at the mall. Once I finished, Mom and Dad were clearly still processing the story, but having known Billy as long as they did, and having encountered Melissa at enough school-sanctioned events like band concerts or football games, they were definitely supportive of the idea.   “And you’re sure about this? I mean, crossdressing seems a bit extreme to me. Why didn’t you just ask Chloe to go in your place? You look enough alike that I doubt Melissa would be able to tell,” Dad suggested.   I opened my mouth to speak but paused. Dad had brought up a really good point that I hadn’t even thought about! It was Billy’s idea, but even he jumped to having me borrow something *from* Chloe instead of asking Chloe herself. Did I shave my legs, dooming me to wearing pants in the blistering heat until prom night, for nothing?   “Unfortunately,” Chloe jumped in. “I have a date that night, and while I like Billy and all, I’m not canceling a date to go to someone else’s prom.”   Well, I suppose that’s as good an excuse as any. Although I’d sort of hoped that Chloe would be available that night in case of emergencies, but I guess if everyone knows now, there’s no reason not to call my parents. Mom was being uncustomarily quiet though, was she lost in thought? Did she have concerns?   “Honey?” Dad asked, snapping Mom out of her thoughts. “Are you all right?”   “Yes, I’m fine. I was just thinking… I still want to take pictures of you! Even if you’re in a dress and heels!”   As much as I didn’t want proof of this endeavor to stick around, it was an easy bargain to make for her acceptance. And with that, I no longer had to hide my training in Chloe’s crash course of being a girl, which made things a lot easier. I spent the next week spending whatever time I wasn’t in school learning the ins and outs of being a woman. How to sit while wearing a dress, how to touch up my makeup, more practice with the voice, and even some prep on creating a plausible backstory for me in the event Melissa corners and interrogates me in the bathroom where Billy can’t defend me. All the while at school, Melissa had started the gossip mill up and both Billy and I were getting stopped in the hall and asked about the rumors. Billy got the better end with a lot of compliments on getting another date so quickly, and how so many people felt bad for him after what Melissa did, whereas I got questions about how hot my ‘cousin’ was, given that she was able to make Melissa so jealous.   The final “test” as it were, to help me get used to being in public, was a date with Billy. But it’s not what you think, they were having a movie screening at the park that we’d bought tickets for months ago, and it was one of our favorite movies, but it was also the night before prom, so I had to be in full girl mode for two reasons, one, because the day of prom was going to be a whirlwind of salon visits and getting into my dress, and two, because Chloe’s solution to not having to stuff my bra had arrived, a set of breast forms that would be glued to my chest to ensure that they couldn’t become crooked or fall out.   “I just don’t know why we can’t put them on tomorrow morning or something,” I whined as Chloe pulled out the bottle of adhesive.   “I told you, I don’t know how good this glue is going to work, so I’d rather find out they’re gonna fall off while you sleep or while you’re getting dressed rather than at the prom. I can’t tell you how embarrassing it is to have a nip slip, especially if the nip falls onto the dance floor!” Chloe held one of the breast forms and pretended to drop it. “Now, let’s try this out!”   “Okay, fine…” I started to pull my shirt off. “Wait, you do have the solvent for that, right?”   “Of course I do,” Chloe held up another, similar bottle. “Why wouldn’t I?”   “No reason, I just had a scary thought of being stuck with those for the rest of my life.” I chuckled as I pulled the rest of it off and laid down on Chloe’s bed.   “Come on, gluing them without having the solvent is just asking for trouble,” Chloe said, applying the adhesive to the left form.   I felt a little silly as I held my chest out to show Billy the forms, snugly resting in my bra, but he wasn’t a creep about it. Well, not that much of a creep at least.   “Wow, those look great!” Billy chuckled as he poked the right one. “Are they heavy?”   “You tell me,” I giggled and chest bumped him, pushing him back slightly.   “Ouch!” Billy laughed, then turned serious. “You know we don’t have to go, we’ve seen it a million times. We could practically re-enact the whole movie here.”   “And miss out on seeing the space battle on the big screen? No way! I love that movie way more than I’m embarrassed to be seen like this, besides, I’m gonna be seen tomorrow night anyway, and I won’t get to see any space battles.” I said as I pulled my favorite “Stellar Skirmishes” shirt over my head.   I glanced into the mirror and checked myself, as Chloe had trained me to do. My hair, which was styled as femininely as I could, was held securely with a green headband, chosen by me because it was the color of my favorite character’s costume in the movie, my makeup was subtle, but noticeable, with my features softened, my lips glossy and a little bit of mascara on my eyelashes, my shirt rested over my chest, which was a new experience for me, and my high-waisted shorts rested above mid-thigh, slightly higher than the hem of my prom dress, so it was good practice, as Chloe had said when she helped me pick it out. Rounding it off was a pair of sandals with a slight heel, which were slightly tight since they were Chloe’s. I chuckled as I thought to myself that I’m not making such a great girl if I only actually own one pair of shoes.   Arriving after the short walk to the park, Billy and I chose a prime location for our blanket, and Billy left me to set it up as he went to get snacks. Everyone was pretty spread out, but I was still on the lookout for anyone who might recognize me. Thankfully, I didn’t see anyone who might and Billy was soon on his way back with a large tub of popcorn and two sodas.   As the movie began, we started mouthing lines of dialogue to each other before the characters said them aloud, but we quickly got as invested in the movie as we had when we’d seen it for the first time in Billy’s basement as kids on his dad’s old VCR. So much so, that I don’t think either of us really noticed when we both reached for the popcorn at the same time, but I definitely noticed it the second time it happened. We both quickly looked away from each other, and I don’t know about Billy, but my face was flushed. I wasn’t really sure why I was so embarrassed, it’s not like we were actually boyfriend and girlfriend, and yeah, I liked him, but as my best friend! But there’s something about sitting on a blanket next to another guy while dressed in my sister’s clothes that made it a very different situation than any other time we’d seen this movie.   But it was just one more day and I could put all this behind me, and all I needed to assuage my trepidations was picturing Melissa’s smug face as she watched Billy and I have a better prom night than she did.   When the movie was over, after stretching our legs, we started to pack up our blanket, discussing the film while we did.   “It really is incredible that even forty years ago the sets were so well-put-together that you can’t even see any seams or strings in this remastered print,” I remarked, as I finished rolling up the blanket, handing it to Billy.   “Yeah, it’s crazy how it looks so much better than even the version that’s in the “Stellar Skirmishes” Blu-ray collection,” Billy said as he stuffed the blanket into his backpack. “Oh, hold on.”   Billy walked up to me and stared intently at my face. My eyes widened as he reached his hand towards my hair. I tried to ask him what he was doing, but my mouth was suddenly dry, despite the fact I’d finished my soda. Time seemed to stand still until Billy pulled his hand back and showed me a piece of popcorn.   “Saving this for later?” he asked, jokingly.   “Uh, thanks.” I brushed some hair behind my ear. “You could’ve just told me it was there and I’d have gotten it myself.”   “And then have to play the, ‘No, my left, almost, you almost got it!’ game? Seemed easier that way.” Billy smiled.   “Maybe for you,” I muttered under my breath.   After that uncomfortable moment and a relatively quiet walk back to my house, we stood on my porch talking.    “I should be done getting ready around five, and prom starts at six, so try to get here early. My mom still wants to take pictures.” I said   “And you’re okay with that? Pictures of you like that?” Billy asked.   “Not really, but she promised not to show anyone,” I replied.   “Sounds good. Can’t wait to see how well you clean up.” Billy chuckled. “Good luck with all that tomorrow.”   “Thanks,” I said.   As Billy turned to walk away, the porch light turned on and the front door opened, revealing my dad. I blushed, still embarrassed to be seen this way by him, although he was clearly finding a lot of humor in the situation.   “I trust you treated my daughter right tonight, son?” Dad asked, emphasizing ‘daughter’ and winking.   “Of course, sir.” Billy smiled.   “God, Dad, stop it!” I tried vainly to push my father back into the house.   “And you’ll treat her right tomorrow night too, right?”   “You know it!”   “Okay, that’s it, leave them alone!” Mom dragged Dad back into the house and smiled at me apologetically.   “Thanks,” I said, then turned to Billy. “See you tomorrow, now get out of here while you still can.”   Billy smiled and headed down the driveway towards the street and I walked into the house and put my face into my hands.   “What? I’m not allowed to have fun with this?” Dad asked.   “One man’s fun is another’s embarrassment, Dad,” I replied in a deadpan.   “All right, I’ll let up. But I can’t make any promises for tomorrow.” Dad walked away chuckling.   “I’ll keep him in check, don’t worry, honey.” Mom said as she hugged me. “Did you enjoy your movie?”   “Yeah, it was great,” I said, not really wanting to bring up the strange feelings I’d been having. “But I’m wiped.”   “And you’ve got a busy day tomorrow, better get some rest.” Mom kissed me on the forehead and let me head upstairs to my room.   I removed all the makeup and disrobed, leaving myself clad in just my t-shirt and a pair of gym shorts. A glance in the mirror showed me that with the false breasts and my still tucked male parts, I looked even more like a girl and I was in my own clothes! Crawling into bed, I fell asleep to visions of my walking across the dance floor in a dress and heels as everyone looked on, especially Melissa. Just a few weeks earlier that would have been a nightmare that might have been concerning to have, but it was about to be my real life. What a difference a few weeks can make, right?   The next morning, I was nervous as I walked into the salon, even if my outfit was by and far the most masculine I’d worn as a girl so far, a casual button-up blouse, a pair of jeans and flip-flops. Chloe walked me up to the counter and told the girl working there that I was there for my appointment, though all she’d told me was that I was getting the works, and the girl at the counter cheerfully walked me to one of the chairs as Chloe told me she’d be back to pick me up later. When I got to the chair, I met my stylist, who I immediately recognized, thanks to her very identifiable haircut. I'd know that short blue hair anywhere, it was Kris, one of Chloe’s best friends, and someone who’d surely recognize me in turn.   “So, what are we thinking about for today?” Kris said. “After all, prom is a big night, right Jenna?”   I froze, I hadn’t told her my name, and even if it was on the appointment listing, she said it in such a way that removed all ambiguity from the situation. She knew who I was. I nervously licked my suddenly dry lips.   “I… uh…” I stammered.   “Don’t worry,” Kris whispered. “Chloe told me everything. It takes a big man to do what you’re doing. And don’t worry about telling me what you want, Chloe was very specific about what she wanted.”   “That’s a relief,” I sighed. “She’s been training me to be a girl, but I’m still pretty clueless.”   “Let me handle everything, don’t worry, you’re in good hands.” Kris patted me gently on the shoulder. “And you’re already adorable, so you won’t need much help.”   Although I blushed at the comment, I was glad that I knew my stylist. Finally able to relax, I settled into the chair, kicking off my flip-flops and leaning my head back. Kris started to prepare and I remembered all the times I’d seen her doing Chloe’s hair before dates and dances throughout high school, never thinking that one day it’d be my turn in the chair.   I sat while she washed my hair in the basin, which was a lot more relaxing than I thought it would be, and we spoke a bit, as I filled her in on the parts of the story that Chloe had omitted in her retelling.   “And she really couldn’t tell it was you?” Kris asked.   “Nope.” I replied.   “I mean, I guess I could see it. I don’t know if I’d have guessed that you were you if Chloe hadn’t warned me and showed me a pic of you in your dress.” Kris remarked as she towel-dried my hair.   As I soon found out, the works are a lot more intensive than just getting my hair, nails and makeup done. It was slightly uncomfortable as my eyebrows were threaded, but the strangest part of the experience was the false eyelashes being glued to my regular ones. In seconds, I had a heaviness on my eyes that felt completely different than anything I’d ever felt. I guess I got lost in my own reflection, blinking and watching the false eyelashes fluttering because I felt a sharp tap on my shoulder from Kris, who had been trying to get my attention.   “Earth to Jenna! What color do you want?” Kris asked.   “Color?” I replied.   “For your nails, I know the dress is pink, but there are a bunch of shades to choose from.” Kris showed me a few bottles of pink nail polish, some lighter, some darker, some with sparkles in them.   “I thought Chloe picked everything out,” I questioned.   “She did, but she couldn’t decide between these two pinks, and french tips.” Kris responded.   I vaguely knew what french tips are, having seen them before, but a spot of confusion must’ve been noticeable on my face, because Kris quickly wiggled her fingers in front of my face.   “These are french tips. And here are the pinks,” she held up two bottles, one a very bright pink, the color of Pepto Bismol, which I ironically found nauseating to look at, and another which was somewhat understated and matched the dress better.   “That pink.” I pointed to the softer pink.   “I liked that one better too.” Kris smiled.   Getting my nails done was an interesting experience as well, soaking my feet, it felt like a foot massage as the attendant brushed away all of the callouses. Then she filed and buffed my toenails before she started painting them. I always saw my Chloe and Mom using cotton balls or those foam toe separators at home, but never thought I’d see them when I looked down and wiggled my own toes. The color looked nice, though. Then the attendant turned her attention to my hands, while Kris continued to work on my hair, using an iron to curl it. The attendant worked on my cuticles and shaping my fingernails before applying the acrylic tips. It’s incredible how just adding long nails can completely change how a hand looks. I didn’t think my hands were remotely feminine before, but now, they seemed like girl’s hands, even more so after my new nails were painted with the same soft pink as my toes.   At the end of it, my hair had been styled into what Kris called a Messy Braided Crown, with a braid going around over my ears and joining in the back, leaving several messy locks hanging around. I was appreciative that everything Chloe chose would be easy to reverse come Monday, no highlights or dyes or extensions. Makeup was a slightly different story, as my nails dried, Kris started work on my face. Some foundation to even me out, a brownish glittery eyeshadow, pink lipstick, not to mention the false lashes, all served to transform my face from a boy into a certified knockout!   “Wow…” I gazed into the mirror in amazement.   “I’m glad you like it.” Kris smiled as she started cleaning up. “You make a cute girl. I think, whatever the goal of this plan is, you’re gonna succeed.”   “I hope so.” I said, flexing my fingers and admiring my new nails.   As I slipped my flip flops back on, I heard footsteps walking towards me, which suddenly stopped and I heard:   “Wow!” Chloe exclaimed. “Seems to be the word of the day here,” Kris giggled as Chloe remained slack jawed, staring at me.   I took a deep breath as I glanced over at the dress laying on my bed. While I’d certainly passed the point of no-return when I let Chloe glue the breast forms in place, it was still pretty daunting. I glanced in the mirror and looked myself up and down, clad in only a strapless bra and a pair of panties, still surprised at how well Chloe was able to help me tuck down the only thing that reminded me that I was still the same boy I was just a few weeks ago. As I turned back to the dress, my door opened slightly and I heard a gentle knock.   “Need any help?” Chloe asked.   “Sure, come on in.” I replied, and Chloe entered. “This is it…”   “You look great! And you’re gonna be fine.” Chloe said as I stepped into the dress and pulled it up to my chest. “I never thought I’d be helping my brother zip up his prom dress, but it’s been nice having a sister for a little bit.”   “Yeah,” I said, thinking about how, despite me only doing this as retaliation against Melissa, I’d had some fun hanging out with Chloe as she taught me the ins and outs of girlhood. I don’t think I’d go so far as to say that I’d miss being ‘Jenna’ when this is over, but I don’t think I’m going to regret what I did.   Once my dress was zipped, I slipped the heels onto my feet, wiggling my pink toes as I took a few steps to make sure that I hadn’t forgotten how to walk in them since my last practice session two days earlier. Chloe headed downstairs to “announce me”, and as I carefully stepped down the stairs, I was nearly blinded by a camera flash when I reached the final step.   “Sorry!” Mom exclaimed. “ Couldn’t resist getting an action shot!”   I rolled my eyes as I blinked and waited for my sight to fully return. As it did, I saw Mom with the camera standing next to Dad who was standing next to Chloe and Billy, who was uncharacteristically early, who’d clearly had a haircut and was wearing a sharp suit with a bowtie that matched my dress.   “Wow, who knew all I needed to do in order to get you to show up on time when we go places was to wear a dress?” I remarked.   “Well, I couldn’t disappoint your parents, right?” Billy replied. “You look breathtaking, by the way.”   “Thanks.” I blushed. “You clean up pretty good yourself.”   “That reminds me, what do your parents think of all this?” Mom asked. “Are they going to want pictures?”   “Actually, they still think I’m going stag with Jensen.” Billy chuckled. “I wasn’t quite sure how to explain all this to them.”   “Maybe you can tell them tomorrow with some pictures.” Mom said. “Now, get together, I need some pictures of the two of you!”   Billy walked over to me and we stood awkwardly next to each other, Billy still a bit taller than me, even with my heels. Billy kept his arms at his sides, no doubt because of my father keeping his arms crossed as he stood next to Mom.   “Come on, you two! Pretend like you know each other!” Mom shouted. “Billy, put your arm on his shoulder! Good, now Jen, put your arm around his shoulder, Billy, move your arm to his waist and Jen, put your hand on his chest… Perfect!”   Billy and I shared knowing glances in between shots as Mom continued to take photos.   “This wasn’t really how I expected it to look, but I’m so proud of you! A shame I won’t be able to post these photos anywhere, but you make such a cute couple regardless.” Mom smiled.   “Mom!” I blushed, while Billy chuckled.   “Oh! How about one where you’re kissing!” Mom exclaimed.   “Mom!” I snapped.   “What? Only on the cheek… Never mind, I think I’ve got enough memories for tonight. I’m so proud of you, baby.”   “Thanks, Mom.” I said.   “Wait a minute! Billy, don’t you have something for Jen?” Dad suddenly exclaimed.   “Oh yeah,” Billy walked over to a table and picked something up.   As he carried it over, I saw that it was a box for a corsage and a boutineer. He opened it up and took out the corsage, and made eye contact with me.   “What?” I asked.   “You need to hold out your hand!” Mom whispered to me.   “Oh… right.” I said, and held my hand out.   I imagined it would probably get worse from there, but this was the girliest I’d felt yet during this whole experience. It felt particularly girly since Mom had resumed taking photos at this point. When he finished securing it onto my wrist, I went to grab the boutineer and pinned it to his lapel.   “Well, I think that does it, right?” I asked.   “Yeah, I think the limo ought to be here by now,” Billy replied.   “A limo?” I asked. “That’s a bit overkill, isn’t it?”   “I’d already paid for it for ‘Liss and I. But I’d much rather share it with you.” Billy smiled.   “Good luck,” Chloe said, giving me a big hug and handing me a pink clutch purse that held my phone, some makeup and some emergency cash that I’d packed earlier.    “Have her back at a decent hour, okay, Billy?” Dad said, sternly.   “Will do,” Billy nervously chuckled, still not sure if Dad was joking or not.   “Have fun, you have your purse right? And your phone is in there? Make sure you have-!” Mom took a deep breath and started to continue.   “Don’t worry, Mom. I’ve got everything I need. See you when I get home.” I said, giving her a hug.   And with that, we were off, the limo ride was nice, and Billy and I discussed our game plan as we rode to the local hotel whose ballroom would be holding the prom.   “Okay, so we’ll walk in together, go find our table so you can put your purse down, and then we find out which part of the dance floor Melissa is at so we can give her a great view of us dancing.” Billy said.   “I hope I’m good enough, I couldn’t dance before all this, and I’ve only practiced at home.” I said.   “Don’t worry, if you’ve got two left feet and I have two left feet, then that means that collectively we should make one competent dancer.” Billy insisted.   “I don’t think that’s how the metaphor goes,” I giggled.   He really was a goofball, and it’s a shame that Melissa just wanted to climb the social ladder, cause she was missing out. Speaking of Melissa missing out, when we got to prom, after taking some photos in front of a backdrop set up by the student council, looking slightly more comfortable than we had at my house, there were the occasional stares, as people tried to place me, but I don’t think anyone figured it out, and if they asked, Billy and I kept up the charade that I was my own cousin, visiting from across the country.   “Ohmigod, you look just like Jensen!” said the girl who sat behind me in history class as we made smalltalk around our table.   “Yeah, we get that a lot.” I smiled as Billy and I crossed through the crowded ballroom.   “There she is.” Billy said, pointing out Melissa, wearing a purple sequined number, standing with Josh and a few other girls, (cheerleaders I think) and their dates.   Melissa clocked us immediately and her expression went from pleasant to furious in record time. I half-expected her to storm over to confront us, but she just started hanging off her date’s arm and acting overly happy.   “Mission accomplished, right?” I asked.   “Stage 1 is complete, but let’s see how much farther we can push it.” Billy replied. “Care to dance?”   “Sure,” I smiled and took Billy’s hand.   We went out to the dance floor and started moving to the beat. The DJ was playing a fairly well-known pop song, and I managed to hold my own, even as I felt my dress bouncing as I moved. We’d joined a group of our classmates, so the stakes were pretty low, but I won’t deny that I felt pretty self conscious as I swayed in my heels. After a few songs, Billy and I were both pretty out of breath and we decided to take a break.   “Punch?” Billy asked, motioning towards the refreshments table.   “Sounds good,” I replied, and we started to make our way through the crowd.   Arriving at the table, we found Melissa and Josh standing near it, chatting with some other couples as they poured themselves some punch.   “Let’s come back,” I started to pull Billy away, but he resisted. It was fun messing with Melissa, but I didn’t want a direct confrontation.   “No, we have as much of a right to be here as she does,” Billy said.   He continued walking up to the table and picked up a plastic cup, filling it with the ladle sitting in the punch bowl. I stood hesitantly behind him. As he handed me a cup, I felt a presence behind me and jumped slightly, but not enough to spill anything on my dress, thankfully.   “Hello, you!” Melissa grinned and spoke in that fake, sing-songy tone that people use when they’re really angry.   “Hi, ‘Liss… Josh,” Billy said. “You both look good.”   “Thanks, and so do you and your date! She certainly cleans up well,” Melissa smirked.   “Well, when I’ve got a guy who’s worth cleaning up for, I put in the effort.” I retorted.   Unable to think of a snappy comeback, Melissa just stomped her heel and grabbed onto Josh’s arm.   “Come on, Joshie-poo, let’s go dance!” Melissa snapped as Josh helplessly followed Melissa to the dance floor.   “Does that mean I have to call you Billy-poo?” I joked.   “Please, for the love of god, never utter that word again.” Billy chuckled.   With that, we returned with punch to our table, where some of our classmates had also decided to take a break from dancing and we chatted a bit, giving some fake highlights of Jenna’s life, as well as explaining how my ‘cousin’ had graciously given me his ticket so that Billy would have a date. Made me feel really good, since maybe rumors of my gallantness might help me in finding a girl for myself. After some more dancing, some eating and more showing off in front of Melissa, the night was starting to wind to a close, as Billy and I stood on the dance floor as the latest song to play had just faded out and the student council president had climbed up onto the stage with a microphone.   “Hi, everyone! Before the final slow dance of the evening, we’d like to announce our prom royalty! The votes are in, and it’s time to crown our Prom King and Queen!” the student council president exclaimed, waving an envelope.   “Wow, I totally forgot about this.” I whispered to Billy.   “Really? So you didn’t see the nominations list?” Billy replied.   “Nope. I guess it’ll mean Melissa will have a great view of us from up on stage, right?”   “I hope so…” Billy said, nervously.   “Okay, folks, as voted on by you, this year’s Prom King is… Billy Gardner!” the student council president exclaimed.   “What?” I questioned. “How did you win?”   “Maybe a lot of people feel bad for me…” Billy responded. “I knew my name was on the list, since ‘Liss nominated me weeks ago when we were going together, but I didn’t expect to win.”   “I guess Melissa loses either way, because I doubt she’ll be happy standing up next to you.” I remarked.   “And this year’s Prom Queen is… Oh, that’s surprising. Folks, we’ve got an upset this year, but for the first time, the title has been taken by someone who doesn’t even attend our school! But the margin of write-in votes was so huge that we can’t deny that our new Prom Queen is Jenna Paganelli!”   “What?!” I turned to Billy. “H-how did that happen? Why was my name even on the list?”   “Melissa made sure everyone knew that I would be here with your ‘cousin’, but no matter how many friends she has, I know most people were on my side regarding the breakup. I guess she figured Josh would get more votes and never bothered to take me off the list, but it backfired, and everybody voted for me in solidarity, and I guess they also wrote you in so that I wasn’t up there alone.” Billy said.   “Come up to the stage, lovebirds, we don’t have all night!”   I would have been frozen to the spot if it wasn’t for Billy, gracefully guiding me by my hand up to the stage. Looking out at our assembled peers, I stood still as the student council president put a crown on my head and handed me a bouquet, before moving onto putting Billy’s crown on his head. The president tried to hand me the microphone, but Billy intercepted it. “Jenna, do you want to say anything?” Billy held the microphone out to me.   “I’m… speechless, I really don’t know what to say.” I said into the microphone, so nervous that I wasn’t even sure if I was still doing my ‘Jenna’ voice.   “Then I’ll just say thank you to everyone who voted for us, you really made this a memorable prom night. And I’d like to give a special thanks to everyone who made it possible, they know who they are.” Billy winked out into the audience towards Melissa.   To this day, I have no idea where the impulse came from, but as I saw Melissa glaring up at us, with Josh trying to comfort her, it was like someone took control of my body, and I handed the bouquet back to the student council president and grabbed his face with my manicured fingers and brought his mouth to mine and kissed him. My eyes were closed, but I imagine that Billy’s were wide open, at least until I felt him relax and accept the kiss. I heard the crowd going wild with ‘whoos’, ‘awws’ and ‘oohs’ until I released Billy’s face.   He pulled away, temporarily speechless and touched a finger to his lips as I smiled at him.   “That’s definitely one way to celebrate!” The student council president laughed as she handed the bouquet back to me and went back to addressing the audience. “Give it up one more time for this year’s Prom King and Queen!”   We quickly got off the stage and headed back to our table. Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to see Melissa’s face as we kissed, but I imagine she was seething, and I couldn’t see her anywhere in the ballroom as we walked. When we sat down, Billy grabbed my hand and looked into my eyes.   “Are you okay?” Billy asked.   “Yeah, why?” I replied.   “That kiss wasn’t part of the plan,” Billy said. “Not that I’m complaining, but…”   “I improvised,” I shrugged. “Felt like the right thing to do.”   “Yeah… It did, didn’t it?” Billy asked. “What does this mean?”   “I… I don’t know.” I replied.   I really didn’t know. Those feelings I’d been feeling as I spent time dressed as a girl, practicing, especially the time I spent around Billy, they’d frightened me at first, but when I kissed him, I felt safe… It felt right. But I had tomorrow to figure that out, tonight was prom, and I was determined to see it through. But first, I had something important to do.   “I’ve gotta use the bathroom,” I said, with all the excitement sending the punch right through me. I grabbed my purse and stood up.   “You sure you wanna be alone with Melissa around?” Billy asked.   “Don’t worry, after that upset, I don’t think she’ll be a problem.” I smiled and patted him on the shoulder, heading out of the ballroom.   I let out a sigh of relief as I walked into the women’s restroom and worked my way around the dress and the tuck job to relieve myself in the stall. As I finished up, I heard a low sob coming from one of the other stalls. I heard the stall door open before I stepped out and saw Melissa, her makeup running down her face standing across from me.   “I hope you’re happy, you’ve ruined my night.” Melissa pouted with crossed arms, leaning against the wall near the sink.   “I’m sorry that you lost, but I didn’t ruin anything. YOU confronted Billy at the mall after YOU cheated on and broke up with him! YOU got all up in my face at the dress store! And YOU spread it around that Billy was taking me to the prom so everyone knew who I was tonight! All I did was exist, so if I ruined your night by spending the evening with a sweet, caring, gentleman of a guy that you just tossed aside like last week’s moldy pizza the moment a better option came along, then I guess I did.” my fists were clenched as I shouted, letting out all my frustrations.   Melissa just glared at me, clearly not moved at all by my display of sheer emotion. But just then, another one of those impulses hit me, and I turned to leave, but hesitated.   “Oh yeah, and just so you know, I let you borrow a pencil in English class last month, I’d really like it back.” I smiled.   I watched as Melissa’s brain began to piece together what that crack meant, as each individual braincell lit up with the revelation that she hadn’t been upstaged by Jensen Paganelli’s cousin. She’d been upstaged by Jensen Paganelli in a dress and heels. I quickly made my way out of the bathroom before she could say anything and headed back to the table, sitting down next to Billy.   “How’d it go? Did you see ‘Liss?” Billy asked.   “We had a few words… But I don’t think she’s gonna come near us again tonight.” I giggled. “Do I even wanna know?” Billy asked. “You know what? Probably not.”   “You’re probably right.” I said.   As another pop song came to an end, the lights went lower and the dance floor cleared of everyone except those with dates and the DJ began to play a much slower song.   “Sounds like the last dance is about to start…” I tapped my polished nails against the table.   “I think everyone would be disappointed if the Prom King wasn’t out there with his queen.” Billy said.   “I think you’re right,” I smiled as we stood up and Billy led me out to the dance floor.   The crowd opened and gave us a space in the middle to dance. Practicing slow dancing with my sister in her room had been very different, but I think I quickly got the hang of it as Billy had his hand around my waist and my manicured hand intertwined with his. For a moment, it truly felt like it was just us on that dance floor, and as I gazed into Billy’s eyes, I was glad to be in the arms of my best friend, and I wouldn’t have had prom go any other way.   And honestly there’s not much more to talk about, we finished off the night, had a long talk in the limo on the way back to my house where we had an even longer conversation with my parents and Chloe about me. My parents were surprised, but not shocked, nor was Chloe, and they were there to support me through everything, although we agreed it would be easier if I spent the remaining week of high school as Jensen and became Jenna full-time after graduation, and although I was sad to see the acrylics and false eyelashes go, albeit temporarily, I also didn’t want to suddenly become the object of attention.   So, at graduation, while Jensen walked across the stage to receive his diploma, it was Jenna who started college in the fall. It was a bit of a bummer, since Billy and I had schemed to become roommates, which obviously couldn’t happen anymore, but we still spent about an equal amount of time in each other’s rooms, so it all balanced out. Besides, once we save up enough for an off-campus apartment, it’ll be a moot point. And to think it all started because of a case of mistaken identity, but I’ve really got to thank Melissa one day, because that prom night, for better or worse, changed my life. And I definitely think it was for the better.

Fallout Equestria: The Great Blue [by InLucidReverie] - * - - - * - “I-I’m a treasure hunter, I’m b-b... brave and I’m here t-to hunt treasures.” He’d been staring at this building for hours, daring himself to enter; it was just a matter of time until he could build up the courage, he was sure. The building itself was little more than one of the many run down shops found in and around Manehattan, but this one, his brother had assured him, contained a ghost pirate’s treasure. A treasure of caps and pirate booty! “I’m a t-treasure hunter.” It hadn’t been hard for Little Piggy’s elder brother to convince him as this part of Manehatten had once overlooked a large body of water. A haven for small yachts, the tourist attraction had stretched on for almost a kilometer. Dried up over the years, the lake had become a ship graveyard. Amongst the innumerable wrecks disfigured through wear and rust, broken hulls display scattered furnishings, ruined artworks and countless pony bones. Recently colonised by feral dogs, the lakebed had become an incredibly dangerous place for anypony. For this reason young Tenpony colts were often told stories of the many ghosts, madponies and pirates that inhabited the area in the hopes they wouldn’t take the real risk too lightly. “Right!” With a sudden, decisive buck Piggy launched both hooves at the ancient door. Finding no resistance from the weakened wood, his hooves breached the board and carried on through, his tiny body following in short order. He landed flat, all four hooves spread out in the dust. Such a good start. As the only light source, it took some time for the colt’s eyes to adjust to the gloom offered through the broken door, though his ears spoke of a creaking, unsteady structure that, to his mind, said it would collapse with him inside (but… pirate booty!). As his eyes adapted, he finally began to pick out details about the room. First, a counter littered with tin cans, kitchen instruments and the odd ball of fluff Piggy could only assume was once food. Through a large doorway to the right, though hard to recognise from the multitude of pieces the furniture was in, was situated what appeared to be a dining area. As Piggy picked himself up and began to explore he found that, despite the ruined tiling, rotten furnishings and peeling décor, the general layout - dining room, preparation area and the big clunky till on the floor in the corner- seemed to fit the pink colt’s understanding of restaurants as he’d seen them in Tenpony (though generally the till wasn’t on the floor.) Piggy had no idea whether Tenpony's denizens had made up the word restaurant or not, but this was certainly the same kind of place. At this point the small, pink pony’s courage ran out. He had just been wondering what a ghost pirate would be doing in a restaurant, which led to the inevitable reminder that he was, in fact, in a restaurant with a ghost pirate. A mean, fat, probably bald ghost pirate with a gigantic, curved sword in his gnarled grin. Scarier than grandma! Right behind him! Piggy bolted. In an irrational bout of panic, the pony sprang up the bizarrely intact stairs (apparently the builder pony didn’t make the tables), screaming a high pitched note the whole way. Behind him came the pirate. The beastly stallion grinned at Piggy from behind, his beard blowing in some imaginary wind as his ratty tail shed hairs with every step. Atop the stairs and round the corner, Piggy madly galloping across the balcony area and through the door to what, if the few storybooks he had read held true, would likely have been the owner’s home. As he passed the door’s threshold, the clumsy colt tripped. He was done for! He was going to get cut to pieces by the pirate-ghost and his gigantic sword! Frantically, Piggy searched the room for something, anything, he could find to keep out of sight. Twenty minutes of hiding under the filthy remains of a bed later, Piggy decided that perhaps he had outwitted the ghast. Dusting off his now very un-white mane, the pony crept slowly into the center of the room. Once there he deemed it safe to take a more thorough look around. The room was, or rather it clearly had been, a colt’s wonderland! Countless broken toys of all kinds scattered the room, while the walls were covered in faded pictures of wonderful machines in all shapes, sizes and colours. Piggy would have been in awe, had he not just realised this was the only room upstairs. He had been duped! Deciding that his brother was a liar, that the pirate was never here and that there was in fact no treasure to be had, Piggy could only feel cheated. After all that courage and heroics, he was left with an empty store and feelings of complete betrayal. Piggy cried. He cried quite a bit. While tears poured down his cheeks, Piggy’s sniffles slowly gave way to coughs. The dust was getting to him and he needed a hug. It was time for him to leave. As the pink colt picked himself up once again, his eyes fell on a picture strewn among the clutter. The picture was old and faded, but it was still pretty easy to see what the focus was; a blue pegasus pony with a lightning bolt cutie mark that took up a good deal of the frame. Her shapely, athletic rump was the focus of this candid photograph, with her head turned cheekily back towards the lens in an expression of playful mocking. Her eyes had told the camerapony he would be punished later, for sure. His worries forgotten at the amusing picture of a pony’s bum, Piggy giggled, picked up the picture and trotted off. Down the stairs and out of the front door he went, only to find the tall, imposing form of his mother immediately beyond. Behind her, the colt could see the smug face of his brother at a cautious distance, eyes firmly on the prize gripped in Piggy’s mouth. “Piggy! what have I told you about running off?! I had to scold your brother for the same just this morning! I don’t know what you boys find so fascinating about that ruin, but you really mustn’t go in there! It’s dangerous!” “Sorry, mother, it won’t-” Upon a sudden embrace, Piggy’s voice is lost in the fuzzy warmth of his mother’s long mane and coat. “And you!” her voice came again, harsher and this time directed towards the buck attempting to sneak away, “That was reckless and cruel! A daft prank is not worth your brother’s safety!” The smug grin long replaced with a scowl, Piggy’s brother stops in his tracks. “Can I at least have my picture back? I saw it first.” Traitor! Pirate! Meanie! - * - - - * -

That day my life changed. It was night back then and it was raining cats and dogs. I am standing in a pool of blood from my classmate while holding a knife full of blood, my shirt is torn apart with a splash of blood and my teddy mask that I use is full of blood like the knife that I am holding. I saw one of my classmates pee in his pants. I looked at him with a killing intent when suddenly I heard a guard officer shouting "hey! what are you doing" the guard said I ignored him and tried to approach my classmate, frozen from the shock. "m-my fa-father w-will not yo-" before my classmate finished what he saying i cut his throat and immediately a flash of blood came out of his throat, It is so beautiful it's like an art. "ahhhh!!!" and his shout is music to my ears. The guard interrupted me again, so I approached him with incredible speed and then slash him in half. His organs are splitting out like jelly. It is so gorgeous. after i killed them I'm back to my senses. "So old man, if you don't show up I will not kill you," I said. I put a sign in the middle of my classmate's body. The sign said, Relax, this is just a normal revenge. I burn my shirt, pants, knife and my teddy mask. I carefully find evidence and burn it. The body is the only one remaining in the scene. I am at my house alone because my dad died and my mom scuide because dad die, that's the people think, but the truth is my classmate that I killed is the sources of my dad and my mom death,  my dad got fired in his work and he blackmail my mom so my mom scuide. I turn on the TV to see what is the news today. [there's a murder happen near the Golden school(Golden school is the name of our school the names come from 5 students who always got a Golden medals in athletics or contests)hey! Rachel what's happened there] the news reporter said. [we cannot pass at the police. the police said it is so brutal that you will vomit by seeing it] the reporter said. "Oh, the class is starting and I'm gonna be late again." I said.

“You will always be fond of me. I represent to you all the sins you never had the courage to commit.”―Oscar Wilde,The Picture of Dorian Gray     Prologue: The Escape "Faster!" He gazed at her naked breasts with lustful eyes, "Bitch! Move your hips faster!" The moans of the women spread throughout the room. He leaned in closer to suck on her breasts. Thump! The sound of the door being banged caused a sudden shift in the man's expression. He jerked the woman harshly with his hands, causing her to fall on the floor. Then, he reached out to the table on the side, trying to grab his sword. Crack! Pieces of the broken door flew across the dusty room in the hut. Three men barged in wearing only leather straps on their upper body and grey trousers. On their hand, they carried a long metallic sickle. They laughed as they saw a naked man with a tiny junk on the bed, pointing a sword towards them while shaking like a little girl. But their expression changed as they saw a blonde girl crying on the ground. Trembling and covering her breasts with her hand. "Jackpot!" One exclaimed as he noticed the girl's beautiful eyes that expressed a shade of over 12 colours. "Cut the man's dick! Then throw that junk down his mouth. Then cut off his head," He commanded. "Aye!!!" The others roared as they barged onto the room. The bandit then moved closer towards the girl. Grabbed her hair with his fingers and dragged her. "AHHH!" The girl cried in pain. He dragged the girl outside the hut. Flames had engulfed the rest of the huts. The moon's light failed to shine the blood on the ground as brightly as the fire on the hut did. Roars of other bandits could be heard, so could the cries and screams of the villagers. As the bandits mercilessly sliced off and tortured them. "No! My child," A mother cried as a bandit snatched her little boy. Two other bandits grabbed her arms and dragged her away. She witnessed her little boy getting his eye pierced and neck sliced by a sickle. "No!!" She struggled, trying to free herself. Her heart shattered as she saw the bandit stomping on the boy's face, even after he had already died. "No! Please," she begged. One of the bandits got closer to her ears and whispered, "Bitch! Forget that kid and think about what's gonna happen to you tonight." The bandits laughed, with not a hint of guilt in their eyes. --- When she first saw him, she thought of him as a peculiar boy. He sat there leaning against the wall. His both legs bent, and his face gazing at the ceiling. His face and clothes looked dirty like he had bathed in dirt. Then his eyes, they looked cold and lifeless. "Oi! We have to escape," She grabbed his shoulders. "Oi! We have to escape now." She urged as she shook his shoulders. That's when he turned his head and looked at her. A strange sensation passed down her spine as she truly noticed his lifeless black eyes. "Why bother?" She let go of his shoulder when she heard his faint cold voice. "If we get caught, you would be the one to get raped. They won't even care about your age." "What?" Her voice choked. "How did you," Her voice got interrupted by the screams coming from outside. The maddening cries. The clash of blades. Her body trembled. She covered her ears using her hands. She curled down, grabbed her feet with her arms, and buried her face there. As the time passed, the screams got louder. Her mind got clouded with thoughts of what would happen to her. If they found out, she's a girl dressed as a man. 'I need to run. I need to escape,' She thought. Legs stills trembling, she gathered up some courage to stand. The prison walls were made of wood. She got closer. "Don't," Her body flinched as she heard the boy's voice. She looked back. "If you think, you can use the chaos as your shield. You're mistaken," Like before. His voice sounded cold. "They kept both of us alive as we possess the potential to become priests. However, everyone's blinded in the heat of the battle. The soldiers won't care for who you are. The bandits won't care for who you are. They will kill anyone they see in front of them," He contined. "You will get your chance when the screaming stops. Have patience. Then leave" "Le..ave" Her voice shuttered. "Alone?" She was afraid. "What about you?" She cried The boy looked above and remained silent. "Don't you want to survive?!" She roared The boy remained silent. "Please.." Drops of tears fell from her eyes. Her throat felt tightening. "Please," She begged. Her chin quivered. She wiped her tears, "I..I cannot take it," The cries, the screams, the bloodshed. It was all new to her. Fear consumed her. She could not do it. Even if she wanted to run away, she could not do it alone. She feared. She feared for her life, for her purity. She was but a 10-year-old. Wiping her tears, she looked at him. 'Why?' She asked herself. Her own body trembled, yet his frame remained still like water in a well. But she realized the answers as she looked into his lifeless eyes. He no longer cared. He felt no fear because he no longer cared whether he lived or died. Like a man who had lost everything. Soon, the clashing of the blades died down. The night had gone silent as the screams stopped. She lay there on her knees. Unable to think anything anymore. The boy sighed. He stood up and went near the prison bars. The door opened with a light touch from his fingers. The bandits were not organized. When the soldiers suddenly attacked the bandits. The bandits had thrown those two in this cell but never locked it. He turned back and looked at the girl. The girl had frozen on her knees. He extended his hand. "Shall we leave escape now?" She flinched. She blinked rapidly, looking at him. "Let's escape" She grabbed his hand and stood up. The cell was underground. She saw few more cells, right after she got out, on the sides and the front. There were only women on those cells. She realized, even though none of the cells was locked. None tried to escape as they all had already died inside with no will to live or escape anymore. Her stomach revolted at such a site. She covered her mouth and kept moving. "There," The boy said as he pointed his finger towards the wooden stair. He climbed first. At the end of the stair, there seemed to be a ceiling. Dead end. But, with his arms, he touched the wooden ceiling, then slightly pushed it. Crackle! The wooden plank moved. The stairs did not lead to a dead end. The bandits had covered the entrance to the underground prison with a plank, so the soldiers would not find them. He jerked the plank to the other side and got out. Then, he lent a hand and pulled her out. As soon as she got out, she saw a pile of bodies on the ground. Fresh corpses on the floor. Some of the bandits and some of the people wearing a white robe. Her face turned pale, and she vomited by the side. She breathed heavily. "Sheesh," He said as he tapped her shoulders. They were inside a hut. Ambling, he got closer to the door and peeked outside. Many corpses lied on the ground. Most huts were destroyed. There was no one in front. "Fire the Corpse!!!!" His body flinched as he heard a sudden noise. He peeked towards the other side. Some bandits were still alive. Around 8-15 in numbers. They were far. He covered his mouth as he saw a bandit ripping out a dead man's arm and chewing it. They set a campfire. The bandits seemed to be quite far. He stopped peeking. "They are probably preparing for some ritual. This is our chance. The moment we leave through this door, we run. If we find the church, we live. If not, we die. You understand?" She nodded to his suggestion. The bandit's hideout was a small place in the mountains. The moment they left the door, they went behind the hut where the bandits could not spot them. Behind the hut were some destroyed wooden walls. After the broken fence was the forest. She gulped. The chances of surviving in a forest were slim. But any fate was better than being with those bandits. "Let's Run", She said, looking towards him. However, as they stood near the forest entrance, she noticed a line of tears down his face. His expression remained unwavering like it was since the beginning, but on his eyes was a trail of tear. "Are.. are you ok?" She asked as he caressed his shoulder. He wiped away his tears. "Let's move," He said. She then realized. Even he was but a 10-year-old boy. It was when the sun began to rise that she began to notice some other things. "We can rest for a while. if you're tired", He asked "No, I'm fine", She breathed heavily. Her legs had begun to hurt. They kept moving. As the sunlight rose, and the forest started getting brighter. Hope began to brew in her heart. However, the sunlight was not the only reason for hope to take birth in her heart. "Are you fine?" He asked. She had noticed the looked in his eyes had changed. They seemed neither cold nor lifeless. Instead, it gave some warmth. His expression no longer looked indifferent. It looked gentle. At times, when he asked how she was doing. She felt comfort in her heart as his words felt sincere. Even though he wore rugged clothes and looked dirty, she noticed a charm within him. "Shall we keep on going then?" He asked with a light, gentle smile "Yes," She said as she grabbed his hand.

Daniel took a look at his clothes which has just been taken out of the laundry, The clothes themselves looked normal but there are two articles of clothing that stood out like a sore thumb among the dull looking clothes. Picking one up and I saw a yellow shirt but the design shows that is clearly made for girls and when he looked at the other one he saw that it was a black skirt. 'Doesn't this look like Ella's clothes?' I thought, remembering that Ella wore these some time ago. Looking at the rest of the clothes, There were no other clothes from Ella but it seems like some of my clothes are missing, I know this because I only have few clothes. 'Huh, Seems like we switched clothes' Taking Ella's clothes so I can return them, I was just one step away from opening my door when I stopped. I stopped because a idea came to my mind from seemingly out of nowhere. Should I... Maybe... Trying to get that thought out of my head was no use because no matter what I did, It always comes back. All my life, a tiny voice in my head always tells me that something is wrong, But I always ignored it part of it was because it was so weak and another part was because I didn't know what was wrong, I had good life, good grades, Few friends but they were true friends. However, When I look in the mirror, that voice always gets louder and I feel discomfort so I kind of stopped looking at them when I can, Don't get me wrong, I don't hate my body, I was slim and short and no matter what I did, I can't just get to seem to get any muscle. Shaking my head out of memory lane, I finally gave up resisting that idea. 'Just this once, Nobody will know except for me and Ella won't be here for another hour or two’ Before doing that though I shaved off my all my body hair (Which there wasn't much of by the way) from top to bottom except my shoulder length hair which was in a man bun which I let free and straightened it with a comb. (I had one in my drawers, I occasionally brush my hair) Now ready, I stripped down my clothes leaving only my underwear, First I put on the shirt which gives me fuzzy feelings when it is touching my skin, Then, next I held the black skirt in front of me, Taking a deep breath, I put my legs inside and put it on. Sitting down on the bed for a bit, I relish in the feeling of the clothes on my skin, The feminine shirt on my upper body and the skirt on my now smooth hairless thighs. 'It feels good, But... It do.. I'm probably looking like an idiot like now' Making the decision to not delay the inevitable, I stood up and went to the big mirror in the bathroom, Expecting to see a long haired man wearing girl clothes looking like an idiot.But when I saw myself in the mirror, I gasped. Because, I saw a girl . In the mirror there was a girl wearing a yellow shirt and a black skirt that goes below the knee staring back at me. I raised my hand, She also raised her hand. I waved my hand, She also waived her hand. That was then I realized. That girl was me. From somewhere, The sound of an egg breaking could be heard. That was when he.. no, She knew. She was a girl all along. And then the voice in the back of her mind disappeared, Because she finally found herself. Then I cried, I cried tears of joy not sadness because I finally found the reason why I felt wrong.After some time I finally wiped my tears and smiled. My reflection also smiled back at me. "Aria, I think my name is Aria" I say in a whisper. I twirled in my skirt, Feeling fuzzy feelings as it spins, The next few minutes were spent playing around in my room before I heard someone at the door. "I'm home" I hear my sister Ella say. I was still twirling when I heard her, Panicking, I quickly got out of the skirt and shirt and hid it deep inside my closet, Then I wore my old clothes again. First my shorts and then my shirt, As I finished, I felt that feeling of wrongness again,, Only this time it was stronger and more constricting around my chest. Wearing boy clothes felt wrong, really really wrong. I took deep breaths as an effort to calm myself down and that at least alleviates the heavy feeling on my chest slightly. Deciding that water can help me distract myself from feeling my clothes, I went down the stairs to grab some. **********After an uneventful dinner with the family, Either neither of them noticed my hair (Which I kept untied) or they noticed but just didn't mention it, I finally escape to my room to wear the clothes again. As I don the outfit again, The feeling of wrongness disappeared and I finally felt comfortable again. I slept peacefully that night. **************** Days passed after that with me still wearing the outfit when I’m alone, I have also been practicing my girl voice to aa level where I was satisfied with it, Then one day a delivery arrived. When I opened it I found a blue top, A red below the knee skirt, a headband, a handbag, underwear, A pair of sandals some makeup like lipsticks. I ordered these the next day after I figured myself. Along with practicing my girl voice, I have also been watching some basic make-up tutorials so I can now know what I am doing, And with the make-up tools here, I can now put my meager skills to the test. Of course the first time went bad, But during the next several attempts my skills were improving so I can now at least apply basic make-up. All of this I did because I want to buy some clothes, I already bought a pair online but I want to experience buying it myself at a mall. I just have to wait for an opportunity to do it.Fortunately, It came. **************************One day, Mom and Dad were out together on a date for a whole day and Ella was in her friend's house. After making sure that they were gone, I didn't wait another second to run into my room, strip out of my boy clothes and wear the outfit that I ordered. The panties that I got fit snugly on me and I tucked that under it so at the front it looks like I had a smooth crotch with no hint of that whatsoever. Wearing the top and skirt, I sat in my desk and applied my make-up. Then I wore the headband around my had and wore the sandals which looked great on my ffeet With that done, It was time for the moment of truth. I walked into the mirror and just saw a cute looking girl in a blue top, red skirt wearing a headband on her shoulder length hair. You could see some make-up on her definitely feminine face but not too much or to little. I felt a happy feeling in my stomach at the sight of my reflection knowing that I am that cute looking girl. Opening my door, I looked left and right to watch out for anyone seeing me. Seeing no one, I went into my car and drived. The drive was an hour long because the mall I'm going to was far away from my neighborhood as possible to prevent anyone from recognizing me. An hour long was short but long enough to finally finish the thoughts I kept thinking about for a few days. How was I going to come out to my family? The answer to that was this trip, During shopping, I'll buy a perfect outfit to wear home. Then I'll first some out to Ella since she'll be home first, Depending on the outcome I'll come out to my parents later. So this trip has two purposes, Buying outfits and finding the perfect outfit to wear for my coming out. During my thinking, An hour has passed and I finally got to the mall. Parking my car, I took a deep breath before walking to the entrance. Walking along, I made sure that I didn't see anyone that might recognize me. Then I entered the first store I saw. Looking around I immediately saw the women's section which I went to. There were so many clothes in here but I kept walking until I found clothes I liked. Eventually, I ended up with 3 tops with varying colors, 5 skirts of varying lengths and types and 2 pairs of jeans. I tried them all in the fitting room with different pairs of clothes. Some pair looked good on me like the purple top and the jeans which hugged my lower body snugly. and Some pairs were okay but overall I had fun just trying on different clothes. So as I was walking to the cashier to pay I also grabbed panties before continuing to walk. But not for long before I stopped and walked backwards for a little bit. Then I saw it. The moment I laid my eyes on it I knew that it as the one. It was a beautiful black floral dress which has a 3/4 sleeve and a floral pattern that goes down into the waist before flaring out into a skirt which is inches longer below the knees. This is it. "You have a good eye miss, I'm sure this dress will look beautiful on you" An female employee suddenly says, breaking me out of my reverie but not before feeling the happy feeling in my tummy at being called miss. "Thank you for the compliment" I say in a voice which is definitely feminine. A product of my hard work. I then grab the dress and turn back around to the fitting room itching to try it on. I turn around in the fitting room facing the mirror and checking out myself in the dress, Twirling spinning and feeling it's fabric on my skin. Walking out of the fitting room I still see the female employee who is now smiling at me. "Judging by how long you were in there I'm sure you like that" She said. "I love it, I'll pay for it" I say, before walking with her to pay for the clothes I just bought today. Walking out of the store, I noticed that I missed lunch as it is 2 in the afternoon. I really must have had fun if I missed time passing by. I then grabbed some light lunch at the food court. The lunch was very delicious. ***************I parked my car in the driveway and I made it to my door holding bags of new clothes.As I entered the living room however, I was not expecting to see Ella who said she wasn't supposed to be here until 2 hours later sitting in the couch. "Hey Dan, Sorry to shorten your alone time but my friend ended our outing early beca...." She said before finally turning around in my direction. "Your not Dan, Who are you?" She said, before her confused face turns into puzzlement and then recognition and lastly shock. "Da..." "Aria, Your sister" I said in my girl voice with confidence seemingly coming out of nowhere before she could continue. "Whaa.. What do you mean?" She said, The shock wearing off. "I realized that I want to be.. no.. I realized that I am a girl" I said as I smoothened my skirt before sitting on the couch. "You're trans?" "Yes" I say before Ella gave me a hug. "You...you're not disgusted by this?" I say weakly. "No, no matter what you are, I'll always be there for you.., Aria." As the moment she said my name, My real name, I finally let out the tears I've been holding back. "Thank you" I say softly as the tears ended. Ella wiped my face as she said "Does Mom and Dad know?" "No, I was planning to come out to you first then Mon and Dad" "Well you can't come out with your face like that, come on" She said as she took my hand and went to her room to fix up my face. After that, When Mom and Dad came back home, Ella introduced me to them before explaining myself as I did with Ella when she fixed me up. They accepted it and needless to say, Another bout of crying, hugging and thank you's ensued.I know I still I have a long way to go such as hormones etc. But still for now, I didn't worry about it as my family have my back. Oh by the day, To the cosmic being out there watching this, Thank you, Because of you I finally found myself, And it was all because of an Accidental Mismatch. MeowItsJustRose Afterword Finally, After a lot of itching, My hands finally slipped for 2 days and wrote this story, Which is my first btw so I'm sorry for the mistakes you might have noticed in the story Oh yeah, I'd like to give the cosmic being a pat in the back (which is me btw) for starting this story I have a lot more ideas for stories but I don’t know when will my hand slip next time, I had a hard time writing this story because I can't seem to get the right words, So don’t expect scheduled uploads Thank you all again for reading this story.-MeowItsJustRose

In the middle of silent night, the wind blows slowly, a girl with a silver hair walk slowly toward the top of the hill. At the top of the hill,  she raises her hand like a girl who wants to hug somebody with her softness. “Power has to sides sometimes it can protect us, or it can kill us slowly. When we got power,  we tend to forget that we were once weak. But it all depends to us on how we use it.” She said in her heart. Few moments later 4 samurai general lines up behind her. “everyone has gathered my princess.” Said one of the generals. The princess turn around toward the 4 general “did you guys ready?.”She asked. “we’re always ready my princess.” Said the female samurai general. “hey, princess after all of this done you will let us free right?.” Said the other general that sat on the stone. “…well because only you master has the power to free us from this curse.”Said the general with chubby body. With a smile of conviction,  the princess answered. “I promise, i’ll set all of you from your curse my honored samurai warrior.” 2 years priors mornings at the town of sakura. One of the wisteria colonies there was a teenage woman with a silver pony tail hair,red-eye balls,wearing black,white & red skirt,old European-era clothe running energetically. She greets people as she walks by pass them. She stops for a moment, head up watch the sky brood over incident that occurs 10 years priors. Where eastanan kingdom were defeated and get colonized by the wisteria kingdom. She continues her trip toward white feather tavern a place where she lives and works. She entered energetically then greets her boss. “I’m home, good morning boss!. Champa ready to work.” He cleans bar table underneath it. her boss was 30 years old man, wearing a brick red jacket, grey shirt, old chocolate trouser,and boots. he was shocked on champa arrival. He stands up then scolding her. “geez you surprised me. Where the hell have you been champa?” “…um putting this flower on the funeral.”Said champa. “by the way since you’re here, buy me some supplies. Bar supplies we’re runs out.” “Eh… I just got here.” Bos dice reply it with a sinister look toward champa. “f-fine boss I’ll leave then, see ya.” Then she leave as quickly as possible before her boss mad at her. few moment later after she bought the supplies she looks on her small note and mumble on her own. “tomatoes check, cabbage check, other spices check,…humm I think its all of it.” When champa correcting the supplies on her note, she accidently bumped with people in front of her and dropping all of her groceries. “waaa my groceries.” As she cleans the groceries mysterious man wearing a straw hat, wielding katana, and daily samurai outfit help her cleaning the groceries. “thanks sir for helping me.” Said champa with a gentle voice. “next time be careful when walk miss.” Said the mysterious man. KRAK-KRAK from faraway the sound of a wisteria soldier came with intimidating aura. With their captain daz. their captain wearing a thick of armor,red cloak,with a long, straight hair. The citizens were shocked by their presence its not usual a group of army come. They mumble and whispering each other. The knights stoped in the middle of market one of them shouting announcing somethings. “yesterday during nights there is someone who stole government property. And kills 2 guards along the way. So, you eastanan people must looks and find the culprit! If its not, then prepare for the punishment.” One of the citizen responded the soldiers. “then, where is the sketch of the culprit? How are we suppose to look for it if we don't know it face?” The knight captain daz responded he screams loudly, “you eastanan people don't need it because the culprit must be one of you. Eastanan bastard.” Champa just stand by in the middle of the crowd she angry but she holds it. Afterward a kid trying to throw a tomato toward captain daz champa try to prevent it. But, she failed the kid runaway while the tomato landed on daz right cheek. With rage daz approach champa slowly daz ask champa with a sinister looks “do you the one who throw the tomato?” Champa stand still panicly “this is bad super bad. what should I do?”Said champa mumbling. Then a meat seller tries to tell the kid that throw the tomato toward daz. “just now I saw a kid that throw the tomato.” Hearing that daz turn toward the meat seller he asks him “who is the child you talk about?, Did you know about him?” Champa panic after she heard the conversation then she try to protect the child. “that's right iam the one who throw the tomato.” Daz turn around “is that so? better you don't try to protect the child earlier.” Feel infiurated by daz champa slap him on his cheek and said. “how the hell we suppose to catch the thief if we don't know it faces,why you guys always do whatever you want you knight jerk!” Watching their captain got slapped the soldiers move daz stop them with a hand sign. Daz pull out his sword. “how dare you touch me with your filthy hand! Now prepare for your punishment!” Daz swing his sword from above, champa just stand still she close her eyes accepting her faith. “…well I am gonna die that's fine for me as long that kid survive.” When the sword is about,  get her. A mysterious men help her. he blocks daz sword with his hand.

Months later, as Seren lay lost and alone in the plague wastes beneath the ground, his mind would often run back to the beginning of it all. The day centuries of sacrifice came to nothing; the day The Lid was opened.  The three friends trod briskly down the moonlit forest track. The one, leading several paces, and the other two, lagging behind. A dense clustering of oaks and tall grass created a natural cloak to either side. The moon stalked the silhouettes as they trod the path below.  “It’s certainly isolated out here,” Rande said. His eyes tried vainly to make out the slightest silhouette within the dense cluster of trees to either side of the track. “You sure it’s safe for us to be walking out here at night?”   “I can’t say I’ve ever heard of anyone getting waylaid in these parts,” Seren replied.    “Dead men don't often tell others how they died.” Rande’s eyes continued to scan the bushland on their flank.   “How come we have to check your traps right now anyway?” Eleanor began.   “Because last time I set my snares and took too long to check them, I came back to bloodstains instead of rabbits.” Seren shook his head.  A small black shape emerged from the scrub in front of them. Rande gasped and stumbled backwards. The creature hissed at them and slunk back into the grass.   “Aren’t you brave.” Eleanor cuddled up sarcastically to Rande. “My hero.”   He blushed and pushed her aside. “I thought it was a bandit.”   “Sure you did,” she teased.   They walked in silence for a moment.   “It should be just up here,” Seren said.   They happened upon a small overgrown clearing. The path suddenly terminated where it met a great stone circle buried in the ground. Beside the circle stood a rusty iron bench. An unlit lamp jutted from the ground next to the bench.  “The traps aren’t too far from here, but you two can stay and rest here if you’d like while I go and check them.” The grass swallowed him as he crossed the threshold between clearing and scrub. Not long after the sound of his feet crunching sticks disappeared as well.   “How long do you think he’ll be gone for?” Eleanor asked.   “Long enough,” Rande said, unbuttoning his waistcoat with a grin.     Finally, the sound of heavy footsteps emerged from the bushes.   “He’s back, quick put your clothes on.”    They slipped back into their clothes. The footsteps moved closer and closer until Seren was right on the edge of the forest. Then they stopped. A grotesque stillness crept into the air.    “Light the lamp,” Eleanor whispered.    Rande was heading for the lamp when a shadow breached the forest wall.  “Rande!”   Sparks flew from the flint and steel that Rande struck together. The figure was within a pace of them when the inside of the lamp erupted in flames.   The lamplight smote its shadow, revealing a melted candlewax face. Its eyes were small and perfectly circular, like two black suns burning in their sockets. The corners of its thin mouth protruded unnaturally from his face. It was draped in a long, dark cloak that concealed his body beneath the neck. The man turned his head from the glow.   “Good evening,” he spoke in a cordial tone.  Rande felt his vocal cords constrict. “Gggood evening.”  The figure withdrew from the bright aura and moved towards the centre of the stone circle. He crouched, and a slender arm disappeared inside his cloak, returning with a small pouch. He emptied its contents onto the stone.   “If the lid opens, life closes,” he remarked with a melancholy smile. “The old words run thus, but what do youngsters care for that?” He pushed himself up from the ground with a soft grunt and strode back towards the green wall. The bushes cowered from his presence, only gingerly returning to their places long after he’d trodden through them. Silence once again claimed the clearing after his footsteps had died out.   “Who was he, and what’s that stuff?” Eleanor asked.   Rande didn’t speak for a long time, he was too busy buried in the machinery of his mind. “I don’t know,” he finally said, “I’ll have a look.” He bent down before the stone circle and examined the powder on its surface. The dust began to emit light, burning red, like coal at the bed of a raging furnace.  “What’s this? It’s glowing-”   An explosion kicked him backwards.     It was treacherous in the forest where Seren was stumbling. Sharp branches groped at his sides and face. Each step threatened to send him lurching forward catching his foot on some decrepit root. None of his traps had caught anything so far.  He came upon the small track where he had set the last snare. The brass noose gleamed in the faint moonlight. A rabbit hung limp within its metallic grasp. Seren smiled at his handiwork and pulled the rabbit from the snare. Off to his right somewhere, an animal could be heard stalking through the scrub on heavy feet. Seren turned back with his prize, sighing at the prospect of stumbling his way back to Eleanor and Rande.   A quick rumble shook the forest. Seren fought to keep his footing atop the shaking ground. A scream reached his ears from the distance. He leapt through the bushes, heedless of the branches, and roots below him.    A pillar of black smoke rose from where the stone lid had stood. Eleanor was crouched behind the bench, peering through its slits. The sound of the blast still rung in her ears. The sight of Rande’s corpse stained her eyes. The bushes rustled and the creature once again passed into the clearing. She stifled her breath, willed her deafening heartbeats to stop. It drew closer, first slowly, then sprinting. It knelt before the body of her friend.  “Rande!” it screamed. But it wasn’t the creature.   “Get out of the open, Seren!”   “Eleanor,” his voice was soft and airy. He made for the bench.  “It’s not safe here. We need to leave.”  “Help me carry Rande.”  “We don’t have time, Seren. It’s nearby. It could be watching us now.”   “What could be watching us? I won’t leave Rande here.”  “Then die here by yourself. I’m not staying.” She got up and hurried down the track. Seren watched as she slowly blended with the darkness around her. He decided to follow. 

Sara was not where she had expected to be when she woke up. Instead of the bright walls and clinical smell of a hospital, she appeared to be in a dimly lit room. Her eyes slowly adjusted to the lighting, and she gasped upon realizing what kind of place she was in. The walls were lined with all sorts of sex toys, from dildo’s to whips to restraints. There were a number of larger appliances as well, including a wooden horse and a Saint Andrew’s Cross. And in the centre of it all, staring at her, was a humanoid figure. “Well, it’s about time you woke up. Welcome to your new home.” The figure drew closer, and Sara got a good look at the room’s other occupant. She was a tall woman with a full figure, wearing what could only be described as a dominatrix outfit. Between the boots that went all the way up her thighs, the shiny latex corset that just barely held in her cleavage, and the cruel looking whip in her hand, it was undeniable who was in charge of this place. But that wasn’t what stood out the most. What really stuck out was her demonic form. A deep crimson skin tone and a pair of curved horns were proof that she wasn’t a human. “Wha… what’s going on?” Sara tried to sit up, only to discover she was held down by something. Panic began to set in as she frantically tried to move her arms, her legs, her body, but her efforts were futile. She was chained in a spread eagle position, with her arms and legs restrained to different corners of the rubbery bed she was on. The entirety of the situation finally hit her, and Sara could feel her heart racing as she realized the implications. “Am I… am I dead?” The woman laughed in response. “You’re a sharp one, aren’t you? Your body was killed the moment the car crashed. Quite unfortunate for you. Even more unfortunate, your soul has been judged by the powers above, and it’s been found wanting.” She reached out and rubbed a hand along Sara’s thigh, causing the woman to shiver in response. “You can call me Xithrya, I’ll be the warden in charge of your soul. Welcome to Hell” Sara was at a near loss for words. She always thought of herself as a good person, someone who put the needs of others before her own. She’d even made an effort to push down her sinful thoughts. This looked like a punishment based on the sin of lust, something she’d avoided her entire life. So why was this her fate? “I don’t understand,” the frightened woman began. “I haven’t done anything wrong. Why am I being - OW!” Her protests were cut off by a quick smack on the cheek. “Everyone says that, honey.” The succubus had a bored expression on her face. “I’ve been down here a long time, and let me tell you, the worst ones are always the ones who think they’ve done nothing wrong.” Xithrya snapped her fingers and a burst of flames wrapped around Sara’s body. She flinched at the initial heat, before noticing it wasn’t actually burning her. Once the flames cleared she realized that her clothes had been burnt away, leaving her body nude and exposed with no way to cover herself. “And the reason why I know you’re such a filthy sinner is because they sent you to me.” Xithrya began to molest her helpless captive, fondling her breast with one hand while rubbing between her legs with the other. Sara could only moan in response, the arousal quickly building inside of her. “You see, I have a bit of a nasty reputation, even in a place like this.” She inserted one of her fingers into Sara’s dripping cunt. “I like to make my victims suffer. I watch as they cry and scream and beg for mercy, only to show them how powerless they are.” She added two more fingers, slowly pumping them in and out. Then, without breaking her pace, Xithrya gave a firm pinch to one of Sara’s erect nipples. “So you must be an extra nasty girl if you were sent all the way down here to be with me.” Sara was starting to lose control of her thoughts. She was hardly a virgin, and she’d slept with a handful of both men and women before. But she’d never done anything remotely similar to this. She’d looked at it before, at bondage porn featuring other women, only to quickly exit from the shame of it all. Sara had been a well respected girl in her life, and the whole “submission” thing was for deviants, not people like her. So why was she being punished this way? While she was absorbed in her own mind, Xithrya continued to play her body like an instrument. Sara was panting now, with the succubus pumping her fingers in and out at a rapid pace. She’d started playing with Sara’s clit as well, building up her arousal with expert precision. Not only were the fingers inside of her perfect in their ministrations, they filled her with an unnatural lust. Every touch of her finger led to a sharp spike in arousal. The succubus’s magic had Sara panting far sooner than she should have. A whorish moan escaped from Sara’s lips. If this was her punishment, to be turned into a perverse plaything, she supposed there were worse punishments. A climax was quickly building inside of her. She cried out, thrusting her hips forward and grinding into the dominant hand. This was far more intense than any experience her lovers had given her. Sara was at the crest, ready to have the most hardcore orgasm of her life- Only to have everything stop. Right before she was able to cum, Xithrya withdrew her hands entirely, watching the captive soul writhe in place as her reward was denied. A sheen layer of sweat covered Sara’s body. She was desperate for that final push she needed, a single stroke of her clit, anything to ride the mind blowing orgasm that Xithrya had set up. But there was nothing. Sara was helpless as the moment passed, her nether region twitching as the frustration built inside of her. “Did you think you would have such a nice reward so easily?” Xithrya’s voice was even more malicious than before. “That I was here for your pleasure, to let you cum your brains out like a dirty whore?” The succubus laughed, and Sara felt the shame building inside of her. In such little time she had been about to trade away her dignity for an orgasm. Even worse, the longing was still there. The feeling of being right at the edge of cumming was incredible. Whatever it took, Sara was ready to go back there, and get the climax she craved. Xithrya was the one who got to choose when she’d get it, and there was no point in fighting her. A chill went down her spine as she realized that technically she could be kept here for years, centuries even, never being allowed to cum. It was then that Sara figured out just what Xithrya had to be doing. She was forcing her to voluntarily submit, to beg for what she wanted. She had no power here. She would have to work to get what she wanted. In a quiet voice, body still trembling from the ordeal, Sara spoke up to her captor. “Please,” she began. “Please let me cum. I’ll do anything you say.” Xithrya was silent, a blank expression on her face, so Sara continued. The thought of being eternally denied was just too intense, and she had to offer everything she had left to avoid such a fate. “Whatever you need from me, I’ll give to you. I know I’m a sinner, and I deserve to be punished, but I’ll do whatever it takes for you to let me cum.” Xithrya didn’t immediately respond, and for a moment, Sara thought she’d gotten through to her. That ended when the succubus gave a hard SMACK to her open pussy with the palm of her hand. Sara cried out in pain, but her tormentor didn’t appear to care. “I’m going to make something perfectly clear for you.” The Xithrya snapped her fingers, and Sara’s restraints came undone. Before she could react, a latex straightjacket appeared on her body, one that trapped her arms behind her back and her tits fully exposed.  “I don’t care about your deals because you have nothing to offer me.” She snapped her fingers again, and Sara was standing up, struggling to stay upright with a pair of ballet boots on her feet that went all the way up her thighs. “I have complete power over you. You have nothing. Whether you obey me or you resist, it makes no difference whatsoever. I can already take anything I want.” Another snap, and a black hood appeared on Sara’s head. She could see out of it just fine, but its tight presence couldn’t be ignored..  “If I want you hopelessly aroused, eternally craving an orgasm that’s forever just out of reach, then that’s exactly what will happen. Resist it, embrace it, beg me to stop or beg me to continue.” Sara winced in pain and moaned in pleasure at the same time as her last accessories took hold. A harsh pair of clamps pinched her nipples, attached by a silver chain to each other. But more important was the thin vibrator that had appeared inside of her. It was humming away at a slow pace, enough to keep her aroused without letting her cum. “Let that sink in. You exist to suffer because I want you to suffer. Look now and see just how far you’ve fallen.” Xithrya waved her hand, and one of the walls began to shimmer. Sara’s eyes widened as it turned into a full length mirror, and for the first time, she was able to look at herself and see exactly what state she was in. Her eyes widened as she stared at her reflection. Sara looked like something right out of a fetish magazine. With her arms trapped behind her back, her chest was thrust forwards, clearly showing off the painful clamps on her nipples. Her braids popped out from two sides of the hood, giving her the appearance of a bizarre sex doll. Worst of all was how her pussy was on full display, clearly aroused and dripping with need. The sight of herself mixed with the burst of pleasure from the vibrator inside of her was overwhelming. Combined with the brutal heels and lack of arms for balancing, Sara fell to her knees before Xithrya. A boot stamped down in front of her. Sara looked up to see her Mistress staring down, the dominatrix extending a foot in front of her.  “Lick.” The word hung in the air, ringing through Sara’s mind. There was no doubt what was expected of her, but she was in utter disbelief. Did the succubus really expect her to worship her boots like that? Even worse, was she actually considering it? Sara wasn’t used to being out of control like this. If nothing she did mattered, then there was no reason not to obey. But with the vibrator buzzing inside of her cunt, it wasn’t easy to say no. Her mind started racing with the possibilities, trying to figure out just what Xithrya was expecting.  As much as she wanted to refuse outright, to deny the demon her satisfaction, Sara couldn’t bring herself to. Instead, she opted to try and strike a deal. “If I do this for you…” Her voice trailed off. Making a deal with a literal devil had to be the worst idea she’d ever had, but desperate times called for desperate measures. And she was getting very desperate. “If I lick your boots, will you let me cum?” Once again, Xithrya’s face betrayed no emotion. “You have quite the thick skull, don’t you. As I said before, there are no rewards here and no punishments. Your choices will not matter.” She thrust her boot directly in Sara’s face. “This is an opportunity for you. You can willingly obey, or I can force you to. Either way, it won’t matter. Your next treatment will be the same. The sooner you understand that, the less strain will be on your poor little mind.” Sara weighed her options. If her mistress was telling the truth, what was there to be gained from resisting? And her arguments made sense. Xithrya had absolute power here, and Sara was completely vulnerable in her grasp. The only thing she didn’t understand was what she’d done to deserve her place in hell. But regardless of why she was here, Sara accepted that the best option for her would be to listen and obey. And so she bent her head down and began licking the boot of her demonic Mistress. “That’s good. Accept your place here, as the bottom of the lowest pits of hell. Make sure you can see your own reflection in there.” Sara continued to lick, letting the rubbery taste of the boot fill her mouth. But it was nothing compared to her humiliation. As aroused as she was, even a degrading task like this made her quiver. The vibrator continued to hum between her legs. If Xithrya’s goal was to make her associate degrading herself with pleasure, it was working. “Enough, pet. Let me inspect.” Sara moved back as her Mistress examined her shoe. It was slick and covered in drool, but Sara was just able to see the shine of her own reflection in it. “Acceptable. Now, seeing you grovel before me in a pitiful attempt to earn my favour has got me all worked up. Nothing makes me hornier than watching a new slave accept their fate. So for your next job, you’re going to get a taste of this demonic pussy.” Xithrya took a seat on the bed, spreading her legs to reveal the juicy pink slit between them.  Sara paused to think for a moment, doing her best to ignore the tantalising flower in front of her. “There won’t be any reward for obeying.” It wasn’t a question, it was a statement. Sara had accepted her place, and she understood how Xithrya operated. She didn’t understand why, but she did acknowledge her situation. “If there’s no benefit, then why should I listen to you?” The succubus smiled in response. “Don’t try to bluff me. We both know your mind is too much of a horny mess to turn down a treat like this. Besides, you’ve already done worse. What’s the harm in giving in a little more?” Although she wanted to argue, Sara had to admit Xithrya was right. It was taking a considerable amount of willpower not to dive right in and start eating her pussy. “Alright, I concede.” Sara was fully resigned to her punishment, and although she knew that she should be resisting, she couldn’t muster the energy to fight back. Instead she crawled on her knees as best as she could with her arms restrained. She was ready to provide the oral service requested of her. Upon making contact Sara felt her core shiver. Much like before, contact with the skin of the demon filled her with arousal, and her cheeks flushed as they touched her Mistress’s thighs. It was a strange sensation, almost burning, but not unpleasant. Her tongue got the worst of it though. Now that it was fully plunged inside of her Mistress’s folds, it was becoming extra sensitive as well, almost as if it was an erogenous zone.  Not that her own actual erogenous zones were faring much better. The vibrator was steadily increasing the more she pleasured the succubus, creating a nasty feedback loop. The nipple clamps felt like they were weighing her down, and the jingle of their chain was a constant reminder of her place. Sara wanted nothing more than to start rubbing herself as well. She wanted to rub her clit until she reached a furious climax, but with her arms strapped behind her, there was nothing she could do. So instead she turned her energy forward and started sucking on Xithrya’s engorged clit.  “That’s a good pet, right there.” Xithrya grabbed the back of her captive’s head and pushed it deeper into her. “Lick it all up like the filthy whore that you are. Make me cum all over your face.” Sara was more than happy to oblige. She didn’t have the most experience in the art of cunnilingus, but she made up for it with effort and dedication. The intense forms of stimulation across her body were enough that she couldn’t focus on anything else. Sara felt another climax building up inside of her, but she didn’t know whether or not it would be permitted. All she could do was make her Mistress climax and hope that she would be allowed to as well. Xithrya’s thighs clamped down tight against her head, and Sara felt a hand forcefully shoving her face into the hot wet demonic snatch. Her own vibrator was buzzing with a high intensity that she knew she would be on the edge herself. With a final effort, Sara worked as hard as she could with her tongue, doing her best to give Xithrya an incredible orgasm. A hot fluid squirted into her face, and Sara cried out as she reached the brink of her own orgasm. The pleasure was unlike anything before, and nothing in her life had felt close to being this good. All she needed was another second to crest that final wave. But she wasn’t able to reach it. The vibrator started dying down, once again leaving her on the edge and begging for more. Tears formed in her eyes as she thrust her hips in vain, trying to grind herself on the floor, anything to get the same satisfaction she had given her captor. But it was ultimately futile.  “Ah, that’s much better.” Xithrya let out a deep sigh, relishing in her afterglow while ignoring the frustrated soul below her. “I’m glad they sent you to me. There really is nothing like giving the spirits of the dead what they truly deserve.” She grabbed Sara by the chin, forcing her to look up and make eye contact. “What about you? Are you glad you were sent to me?” Sara’s mind was still numb from her ordeal. She was once again denied her release, instead left panting and craving more. There was no limit to how long she could be kept like this. Her pussy was on fire, and she wanted nothing more than for the vibrator to start full blast again and make her climax until she went numb. But that wasn’t her decision to make anymore. “I’d be a lot more glad if you would let me cum.”  Xithrya laughed at her response. “At least you’re being honest, slave. I like you.” Sara shrugged her shoulders. If she wasn’t going to be punished any more or less, there was no harm in speaking her mind. Xithrya got up from the bed and stretched her arms out. “I’m afraid I have to go for now. No rest for the wicked and all that. But don’t you worry, I’ll be back soon enough. And I’ll help keep you entertained in the meantime.” The succubus clapped her hands, and a cloud of sulphuric smoke covered the room. As it cleared, Sara realized that her predicament had changed somewhat. She still had the latex hood and straightjacket, and the nipple clamps were still attached, but the vibrator was gone. Instead a spreader bar between her legs kept them far apart, leaving her inflamed cunt completely exposed.  Much to her dismay, a new sensation replaced what had left. Something tickled her nether region, and Sara recoiled at the feeling. It didn’t help though. The feeling of something light brushed over her cunt, teasing her outer labia and her exposed clit. Sara shrieked with laughter, unable to resist, as the new torment continued. She looked down to see a single angelic feather brushing itself back and forth. Sara rolled on the ground, and tried her best to scoot away, but it was no use. The magical feather followed her position perfectly. And thanks to the spreader bar, she had no way to try and protect herself.  “Well, it looks like you’re set up here nicely. I’ll be back in a few hours, so do try to keep yourself entertained until then.” She leaned down, staring her victim directly in the eye. “I’m looking forward to your eternal punishment, Kara Sundor.” Sara’s eyes widened at the comment. They had the wrong person. She was Sara Kundor, not Kara Sundor. “Wait, haha, no, hehee, please!” She tried to speak, but the cursed feather and its tickling made it impossible to complete a sentence. “I’m not, heh, not who,” but her words were cut off.  A shiny red ballgag appeared in her mouth. Her protests were replaced with muffled screams and cries. Xithrya gave her one last malicious look before vanishing in a puff of smoke, leaving the poor victim all alone.  The torment continued. Sara caught sight of herself in the mirror, and she almost couldn’t recognize herself. Tears were streaming down her face, both from the denial and her tickled cunt. Her face was bright red from screaming into the gag. The clamps on her nipples jingled wildly as she thrashed about, never letting up their pressure. And the shiny latex was covering so much of her body, yet leaving the most important area completely exposed. She had now way to protect herself from the angelic feather as it teased her overly sensitive cunt. This wasn’t even supposed to be her fate. This was supposed to be somebody else. But what could she do at this point? Xithrya had made it clear that nothing would get her out of here. And if there was no way to fight against her bonds, all she could do was try to enjoy it. Sara surrendered her mind to the teasing, to the horrible white feather, letting her mind leak out of her cunt as her previous edges left her on the brink of madness. There was nothing left for her to do but lay there and take it.   Xithrya rematerialized in another room. Instead of a satanic sex dungeon, this was more like a typical office, with the exception of a floor made up of fluffy white clouds. In there an angel was watching a computer screen with all twelve of its eyes. “Are you absolutely sure you got the right person?” The angel spun on its central axis, its wings flapping to acknowledge Xithrya’s presence. “This is a pretty unique case, and you know how much paperwork is involved with wrongful placements.” “I’m sure of it, Azathael. Triple checked it myself right before we started.” Xithrya walked over to the desk and picked up a file. “Sara Kundor,” she began, “age twenty-two. Spent her whole life working as a care aide and setting her own desires aside. Was often put in horrible positions where any mistake or poor judgement could ruin lives.” A shimmer enveloped Xithrya’s body. Her skin became a human tone, her horns shifting into a golden halo and a pair of dove wings sprouting from her back. A plain white robe replaced her fetish garb. “Died in a car crash after swerving to avoid an old man whose walker broke down.”  The former succubus set the folder down, instead looking at Sara’s bound and writhing form on screen. “Poor girl thought she was a monster for having these kinds of fantasies. Trust me, she deserves a chance to indulge herself without any feelings of guilt or responsibility.” Azathael turned to face their companion. “Sure, but don’t you think you’re enjoying this a bit too much? Come now Selene, we both know why you were so quick to volunteer for this assignment.” Selene gave a sheepish grin. “Hey, part of an angel’s duty is catering to the needs of the kind hearted. If their needs happen to include being treated like a worthless fucktoy who suffers for the amusement of others, then what choice do I have?” Azathael rolled their countless eyes at her response. “I’ll probably keep this up for a month or so,” Selene continued. Let her know where she really is, give her a chance to explore the rest of heaven.” “If that’s what you think is best,” Azathael responded. “Though if she comes out of it annoyed at your little charade, you can expect to spend the next hundred years on laundry duty.” Both of them shuddered at the thought. “I can tell you’re really enjoying this one. Do you think she’ll want that kind of treatment again, after you let her out?” On screen, Sara whimpered into her gag as she helplessly thrust her hips into the air. With her arms trapped behind her and the ballet boots on her feet, all she could do was roll around and let the feather assault her. Her cunt was bright red and constantly dripping, leaving her at the crossroads between unbridled pleasure and inescapable torment. “With how much she’s enjoying herself in there? I bet she’ll beg me to go right back in.” Etherealust You can find more stories just like this one over at my Patreon. 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The Love Between White and Black Eterna. A small planet billions of light years away from the earth that we know, but they were so similar despite either one not knowing the other planet existed. Eterna had lush forests, beautiful oceans and lakes, blue skies and fresh air. Its population wasn’t as nearly as dense as earth’s but its technology had advanced just as far, maybe even a little more. Its people were even similar to earth people. They had the biology of a normal human on earth with all the organs and senses and appendages. Morally, some were good, some were bad and some were in between. Just like the humans on earth. So what was the difference between this little planet and earth? Human evolution was where the two planets couldn’t be anymore different than each other. Eternians have evolved to being humans with, well in short, superpowers. Though Eterna was similar to earth in many ways, the start of the little planet had its people battling extreme weathers, terrain shifts and a climate harsher than earth’s. Now, in modern times, its people had adjusted to the harsh climate but the planet had more or less settled down with its brutality. Thus the abilities the people had now became akin to superpowers. Eterna didn’t have a clear country or region, it was just Eterna. One little planet where the people unite under one banner. The highest position of authority in Eterna was not a president or an overlord or a dictator, it was not held by a single person backed by a government.  The Moon Justice Alliance was the highest authority in Eterna. In the alliance were some of the most brilliant minds and powered beings in Eterna. Their job was to maintain the peace and justice of the planet. There were countless members doing all sorts of work behind the scenes but the ones who the people of Eterna looked up to and revered were the six leading members of the alliance. Kalmyra, the oldest and wisest female leader who was blessed with endless knowledge, Litta, a calm and bookish female fire user, Helle, the strong female fighter who wielded an ice spear she conjured herself, Pyhlos, the male strategist who could conjure plans and strategies in a matter of seconds, Neofy, the male warrior who fought using plasma twin daggers, and finally Qyra. Qyra was a bit different than the other five members. He was the youngest out of all the members, just fresh out of his teenage years. He was a strictly non-combative member and was strictly forbidden from ever leaving to do excursions. He had never once stepped outside and fought bad people and yet he was an indispensable member of the alliance, if not the most important. Qyra had been blessed with seer powers. He could peer into the near future and see all the possible outcomes that a single situation had. This made him a powerful asset to the alliance. His powers were the only thing that kept Eterna from descending into chaos. He kept the other members of the alliance ready with whatever they needed to do to get the best outcome out of a situation.  Such responsibility in someone so young, yet Qyra was a beacon of sunshine. He was always smiling and giving the other members supportive and kind words. In the gritty and grueling task of fighting crime, he was the light of hope that kept the members afloat.  Everyone in the alliance knew that no one was more important than Qyra, no one dared touched a single hair on his head out of fear of angering five of the most capable members of the alliance. That was why it was nearly baffling what happened one fateful day. Helle and Neofy entered the compound looking incredibly dreadful. They had just returned from taking down one of the major crime lords of the nearby area. The fight had been short but tiring all the same. Helle’s red fiery hair was stained with mud and dirt, her clothes ripped in some places while Neofy had cuts on his arm from skidding across the road. They were otherwise physically fine but still, they needed a mental refresher. Cleaning themselves from the grime, they excitedly rushed to get to the lounge room of the compound. It was the biggest room in the whole building, used primarily for breaks. It was also the room that Qyra frequented the most. Most of the time, you could find him sitting by the giant window of the lounge room, looking outside. As the doors opened, Neofy immediately ran inside, excitedly wanting to get his daily fix Qyra’s hugs. Helle was slightly more calm, she gave Neofy a glare as he ran inside full of energy, though on the inside she was waiting for a chance to talk to Qyra and hear his gentle voice and her steps quickened. In front of her, Neofy had stopped in his tracks abruptly, causing Helle who was trailing behind him to slam into his beefy body. Neofy stumbled because Helle wasn’t exactly petite or tiny, she was a woman who was used to fighting and had trained her body to the absolute best, giving her a muscled frame not too different from Neofy’s. “What the hell Neofy.” Helle grumbled, giving Neofy a slap on the back. “Why did you -” Helle’s words faltered halfway when her gaze landed on the scene in the lounge room. Kalmyra, Litta and Phylos were all sitting on one of the couches in one corner of the lounge, and then across from them there Qyra.  Sweet angelic Qyra with his fluffy blonde hair and clear grey eyes. He was wearing his casual clothes of a giant hoodie and jeans. He looked incredibly cute, like a small animal wrapped around a warm blanket, making your heart feel warm. Helle’s eyes then slowly drifted to the side and saw that Qyra was not sitting alone.  There was a man there. He looked incredibly contrasted next to the pure Qyra. His hair was dark and long tied back into a single ponytail, his eyes were also dark and piercing, he looked to be much taller than Qyra and was also quite muscular though not as muscular as Neofy or Helle.  The man was looking at Qyra with a look that Helle wanted to beat out of him and...his long fingers were snugly wrapped around Qyra’s own.  Helle pushed Neofy to the side and stomped her way towards the group. Qyra’s face lit up from seeing her and the pure face almost made Helle falter. If this was a different time then Helle would immediately back off but seeing her pure and gentle Qyra being potentially ruined by another made her see red. “Who is this?” Helle asked, her voice grumbling with anger. Litta cleared her throat and answered. Her timid demeanor was nowhere to be seen. She looked incredibly stiff and blank as she spoke. “This is Elegy. He’s a researcher and...Qyra’s companion.”  Litta’s face scrunched when she said the word ‘companion’ as if that word was incredibly disgusting to her, and truly it actually was. That day she had arrived home from doing her clerical work and wanted to rest at the lounge and maybe listen to Qyra as he sang or read a book. Instead when she arrived, she found Qyra and Elegy. Litta understood that Qyra wasn’t hers. He was everyone’s and thus she shouldn’t get angry when Qyra spent time with someone else. Only with Elegy, she witnessed them holding hands as they talked, she watched him kiss Qyra’s fingertips and stroke his hair from his face. Those actions sent a boiling rage to the normally timid Litta. She wanted Elegy to disappear. Qyra frowned slightly but kept smiling. “He’s not just my companion, he is my lover.” The lounge turned so silent that you could hear a pin drop. Phylos pushed his glasses up his nose and cleared his throat. “Qyra -” “I’m not breaking up.” Qyra said firmly, shocking the other five superheroes in the room. They had never once heard Qyra speak in such a tone. All the time they were together under the alliance, Qyra had always been a soft spoken, gentle boy who cheered them all during their darkest times. He had never once raised his voice or gotten angry, so at that moment, he sounded like someone completely different. His smile was no longer there either, instead the corners of his lips were turned downward into a displeased frown. Kalmyra rose from her seat and reached her hand out as if she was in the midst of calming down a wild animal. “Qyra, we just think,” her voice was low and slow. Her eyes glanced at the rest of the members with a warning gaze that told them that Qyra needed to be handled with care. “That you are much too young to be dating anyone right now.” Qyra narrowed his eyes and gripped Elegy’s hand even harder. Everyone in the room knew that Kalmyra was just putting on airs. As a seer, Qyra knew the truth. He could see it in his mind, his powers telling him the truth. The five members of the alliance didn’t want to let go of their beloved Qyra and give him to anyone else. They wanted him to stay in the compound and in the alliance as their songbird.  As the tension rose even further, Elegy stood from his seat and finally said something. “I know you are worried for your beloved member,” he said, his voice smooth and deep. With his elegant handsome voice, gentle gaze and that voice, he could easily do whatever he wanted and got away with it, but unfortunately, right now he was facing off with five overprotective superheroes of the Justice Alliance. “I promise you that I will take good care of him and never hurt him. I love Qyra with all my heart.” As much as a smooth talker Elegy was and how sincere his love proclamation was, not one of the five members wanted to believe him. From the start, they wanted him gone and away from their precious little songbird. Looking at the unwilling faces, Qyra’s expression dropped even further, his chin wobbled and tears started to form in his eyes. Slowly he reached for Elegy’s hand and tightly hooked his pinky fingers with his. Though the five didn’t want Qyra to be taken away, the didn’t want to see him cry even more. After all they had sworn to protect him. How could they stand by and watch the little angel cry? Finally, it was Phylos who stood. His green eyes stared piercingly at Elegy and then gently at Qyra. Sighing, he dropped his arms that had been crossed for a while and gestured towards the others to stand as well. “Let us allow them to be together.”  A sound of protest emerged from every single one of the four, voicing their displeasure at Phylos’s idea. “I know we all don’t want to, but Qyra is growing up.” Phylos waved his hand towards Qyra. “And if this was indeed a bad thing, then Qyra would’ve seen it and decided what’s best, right?” Qyra nodded fiercely, his little hands gripping Elegy’s. “Yes, yes of course. I’ve seen it. Me and him will be happy for a long time.” The others were still not convinced. Though they were slightly relieved, of course, to know that Qyra saw nothing bad happening to him and Elegy’s relationship, it wasn’t really about Qyra’s wellbeing in the first place, really. From the very start it was about the members feeling terrified of losing their emotional clutch to a random man they have never met before. Even Phylos right at that moment, though his mouth said one thing his eyes told the members a different thing. In his mind, he was furiously making plan after plan to make Elegy leave and never return.   ***   “They were unimpressed with me.” Elegy said as he gently brushed Qyra’s hair. “Yes…” Qyra agreed dejectedly. “I wonder what I’m supposed to do…” After the meeting that bore no fruit, Elegy had volunteered to go home so the six of them could talk in private. The members seemed eager for him to leave. Qyra quickly volunteered to walk him out the door. Of course everyone tried to stop him from doing so but eventually Qyra managed to convince them that this will help them come to a better conclusion. After Qyra walked Elegy to the door, he shut the door behind him and followed Elegy to his home, leaving the members probably baffled and confused. Qyra took a short bath and then sat on the floor as Elegy dried and brushed his hair. His long fingers felt nice in his hair as he brushed over his temple, his forehead and the top of his head. It calmed Qyra’s nerves down just a little bit. “What do you think they’ll do now?” Qyra sighed quietly. Elegy chuckled briefly and put away the hair brush. “Right now, that’s not something you should be worried about. We have a big day tomorrow.” Qyra leaned back to Elegy’s embrace and tried to remove the thoughts of his fellow alliance members out of his head. Elegy was right. There was something much more important to worry about. He had a whole lifetime to convince the five people that Elegy was the one for him. Seeing that Qyra was a little bit calmer, Elegy dropped a gentle kiss and the top of his head and pulled the other boy out. Slowly, he brushed Qyra's cheek then leaned closer to kiss those soft lips. Qyra lost himself to the feeling of Elegy’s lips on his, his big hand stroking his cheek and his breath against his face. He pushed harder and deepened the kiss, slowly parting his lips to let the other in. Right now, he didn’t care about what was waiting for him back at the alliance compound. All that mattered to him was right here, holding him within a gentle yet unbreakable embrace.    ***   The sound of alarms gathered the six members of the alliance team into the meeting room. The alarm was a signal that a major crime was taking place and would need their immediate attention. Though the display monitor had yet to show what was happening, it was more than likely that it was caused by the Black Sun Organization. The Black Sun Organization could be considered as The Justice Alliance’s worst enemy and possible nemesis. It was an organization filled with many different crime lords and evildoers, all with superpowers and a  want to commit crime. Their primary objective however was to do lengthy and torture like experimentation on individuals with outstanding or unique superpowers. The Alliance has no clue what they could be trying to achieve with this experimentation, but whatever it was it needed to be stopped. Qyra was the last one to enter the meeting room. There was a certain bounce to his step as he sat down in his usual seat. The others glanced at each other than at Qyra. They were still on edge over the fact that Qyra had disappeared the other day and said nothing about his whereabouts. He returned soon after in the same condition as when he left, but it still left a stain on the members’ heart, making them even more determined that Elegy was not the one.  “So, what is happening?” The members snapped back to reality and focused on the task at hand. Though they were worrying about Qyra’s situation, there was crime going on in the city that had to be stopped. Qyra could wait, the citizens in danger may not. Kalmyra brought up footage that seemed to be a recording of a chemical laboratory on the edge of town. They watched as a figure clouded in darkness broke into one of the containment units inside the lab and started wreaking havoc as he destroyed beaker after beaker, glass after glass, and tool after tool. Finally he reached a locked shelving where there were even more samples inside. This time though, the shadowed figure gently opened the shelving and carefully took one of the test tube vials. He examined it closely before putting it into a box. Kalmyra paused the recording and zoomed in on the shadowed figure. It seemed like his powers had something to do with manipulating shadows or light because where he stood, the security cameras couldn’t catch his face at all. All that could be seen was his tall figure and long hair but not much else. “This is our duty for the day.” Kalmyra announced. “We will go with our standard lineup and take this guy down. It’s all in the day’s work.” The standard lineup was simple. It was Neofy and Helle as the main attackers, Kalmyra would lead and assist in attacks  along with Litta while Qyra and Phylos would stay at the compound and act as navigators and watch over the surrounding area of the location through satellite maps and radio broadcasts. Quick on their feet, the alliance moves fast to be where they need to be. The four on site team quickly departed with their vehicle while Phylos stayed to think of a strategy. Phylos immediately grabbed a paper and pen to start jotting down possible strategies and while he was busy with that, next to him, Qyra peacefully closed his eyes as if he was falling asleep. What he was doing was not going to sleep but scrying. Looking for the best possible outcome, the best possible path, and the things they needed to avoid. After a moment, his eyes opened and Phylos immediately gave him a sheet of paper filled with the best possible strategies he came up with. With swiftness and precision Qyra suggested some things here and there and adjusted the strategy from something possible to something definite. The onsite team received the strategy note as quick as it was made. They examined the details carefully and observed their surroundings. The chemistry laboratory was a lab dedicated to medical research and the genes that gave the people their powers. Kalmyra understood why this could be a target for the Black Sun Organization. Still, they would still stop whoever disturbed the peace. As the four were looking around at the surroundings, a big explosion could suddenly be heard from the back of the lab, signaling that they already started another wave of their raid. Quickly, the heroes ran inside the lab, their target was the shadowy man and they would take him down like they do with all villains. They ran through the white halls of the lab corridors, passing multiple doors and rooms. They could even see the damage they had caused with their ransacking in a couple of rooms. After many left and right turns, the four heroes managed to arrive at the main scene of the crime. Though the leader, Shadowy Man wasn’t there, his underlings were still around, smashing and stealing vials and beakers. “Helle, Neofy” Kalmyra ordered, voice firm and befitting of a hero leader. “You deal with these, me and Litta will search the further areas.” Helle and Neofy nodded in unison then charged ahead to fight their enemies. Helle with her majestic spear, stabbed and swung her weapon gracefully. She almost looked like a dancer performing on a stage. Every swing of her spear, she would hit an enemy and send them flying. Neofy fought a little bit differently. He was a dual dagger user, so he relied mostly on speed to stab his enemies without them even realizing that they had just been stabbed. He zoomed and dodged between every enemy and slowly neutralized them one by one. Meanwhile, Kalmyra and Litta were carefully examining room after room trying to find Shadowy Man and chase him down. It was quite odd for them to be leaving their heaviest hitters, Helle and Neofy, together in an early room, but this was what Qyra had deemed to be the best path. He said that the enemies ahead would be easy enough for Litta and Kalmyra to deal with all on their own, and they trusted Qyra with all their heart. After a few more exploring, they finally reached the main research lab. It had the biggest room so far with the most expensive and top of the line equipment stationed in them. Kalmyra felt confident that this was the room where their culprit was hiding. A movement at one of the dark corners of the room caught Kalmyra’s vigilant eyes. As she glanced to look, the shadow moved and started dashing out of the open exit of the library, back outside. Kalmyra and Litta made haste and ran to follow after him but before they could, many more underlings appeared from the shadows and blocked their path.  Fortunately, Qyra’s vision had foreseen this too. Kalmyra gave Litta a look that the other girl returned with a simple nod. With a flick of her fingers, red orange flames appeared and started to dance on her palms. With a swing, Litta threw a multitude of red hot fireballs at her enemies, singeing them and even burning them. Though she was meek and had a quiet disposition, in the midst of a fight, Litta was tenacious and could hold out on her own.  Trusting her comrade to fight, Kalmyra made a dash towards the exit where the Shadowy Man had left. After running a few more distance, Kalmyra could spot the man not far from her. He was only a few distance away. She could catch up! Kalmyra pushed her legs harder as she ran faster and faster. Though her only power was her unlimited knowledge, Kalmyra was a determined woman. She ran and ran until finally she could reach out and grab the Shadowy Man’s shirt collar. With a hard tug, she sent the man crashing down onto the floor, the momentum also sending her down with him. “You’re under arrest.” Kalmyra gasped, her breathing shallow and her chest contracted with pain from overexertion and running too hard. It didn’t matter. She caught her culprit. “Show me who you are.” With a harsh grab, Kalmyra turned her culprit around so she could see who she was fighting. When her eyes finally landed on his face, she gave an audible gasp. No, it couldn’t be...this man was...he was...she knew his face well. “You are…” She said, breath heavy. “You’re Elegy. Qyra’s Elegy...you’re part of the Black Sun?” It was him. That elegantly handsome face, the long dark hair, the piercing eyes. Elegy. The Elegy who just stood inside her home not too long ago. Yet here he was,  a criminal. A dirty lowlife villain.  Under her, Elegy laughed and pushed her away.  “You…” Kalmyra gasped, half in anger half in disbelief. “You tricked us! You are one of the Black Sun Organization!” Elegy still looked amused. “So I have. Nice to meet you again, Kalmyra.” Now fully enraged, Kalmyra lunged forward, her hands aiming for the man’s neck. “You said you would protect Qyra! You tricked him as well! He’s going to find out about this!” Elegy only chuckled. He sidestepped Kalmyra’s weak hands and turned away from her, ready to dash again. “And I meant what I said.” Kalmyra couldn’t fully catch what he was saying, but she didn’t care. This was the man who lied to Qyra and tricked him. He will get what he deserves. Kalmyra continued the chase. She needed to take this man down. The Shadowy Man kept running ahead of her and finally made a left turn on a crossroad. Kalmyra didn’t stop or rest. She remembered what one of Qyra’s visions said, that if she turned the opposite way, she would take a shortcut and end up in front of the culprit. With much conviction, she veered right in her path without so much as a single ounce of hesitation.   ***   The six heroes sat around the meeting table once more, only this time they were worse for wear. Helle and Neofy looked especially hurt. They had multiple bandages around their body, countless bruises and wounds. The enemy onslaught had been tougher than they expected, the enemies kept coming and coming until they were almost overwhelmed with their sheer numbers. Litta also didn’t look too well, she looked physically exhausted. She had never fought that long in battle and she had never used so many fireballs in one sitting. Right now she felt incredibly drained, as if something had been sucked away from her. Kalmyra didn’t seem to be visibly injured, but inside she was annoyed and furious. After going right, she had kept running and running and running but...nothing. She didn’t see the man again. He was just gone, managed to run away from the smartest woman in the alliance. Kalmyra dismissed the heroes and told them to rest up. Today wasn’t the most successful of excursions but they still needed rest. Kalmyra, however, had an important but heavy duty to do, and that was to tell Qyra of his lover. About how Elegy was part of the Black Sun Organization. Slowly, she entered the lounge room. Qyra was there, as usual he was sitting by the window watching the skies as the sun went down and stars started to appear. Kalmyra took a seat next to him and laid a single hand on his shoulder. “Is there something the matter, Kalmyra?” Kalmyra took a deep breath. “I have something to tell you.” Kalmyra began to explain what happened, what she had seen, what she had encountered today. How Elegy was a criminal. How he couldn’t be trusted and he was just deceiving Qyra. Qyra made no expression as Kalmyra told him what happened, but after it was done, he slowly put his face into his hands, his shoulders began to shake. “Please...please rethink your relationship with him. He will hurt you.” Though Kalmyra was sad that this would give Qyra a broken heart and possibly keep him away from future bonds similar, inside she was a bit happy. With Elegy being a liar, surely Qyra would throw him away. Then the alliance would unite under a stronger banner. Things would go back to normal, to -  “Ahaha…” Kalmyra froze when she heard that noise escape from Qyra’s lips. It wasn't tears or wailing it was…laughter. Qyra descended into a fit of amused laughter. When he showed his face, it wasn’t stained with tears or grief, it was a happy expression decorated with that beautiful smile. Qyra pushed away from the window seat and stood in the middle of the lounge room. “Qyra…” “Kalmyrah, let me tell you something.” He said coldly, a voice that Kalmyrah had never heard before. “I know who he is.” “You...knew?” Kalmyrah said, her voice uncertain. “Then why did you say that you saw happiness! If you knew he was part of the Black Sun Organization -” “Kalmyrah, there was nothing wrong with my vision today. I gave no wrong instructions.” “What?” Kalmyrah frowned in confusion. “There was nothing wrong with my vision today, I gave no wrong instructions.”  Kalmyrah paused and digested the words. Slowly, she realized. The incorrect number of predicted enemies and separating their attackers from the main team, letting Litta fight alone, telling her to go right during a crossroad… “You were buying time to let him escape.” Kalmyrah said slowly, realization dawning on her face. “All this time…” And then her mind thought back to their fighting activities for the past month. They’ve been fighting crime lord after crime lord. Could it be that they were also part of the Black Sun Organization? “Those people were standing in his way. They needed to go.” Kalmyrah fell to her knees as more and more things started to come to light. All this time, Qyra...he...he was helping Elegy rise through the ranks, helping him with his crime. Their pure angel….he wasn’t there. “I thought you wanted good.” Kalmyrah found herself said. “I do want to do good. I despise crime.” Qyra stepped closer to face Kalmyrah. His eyes were cold as they stared back into hers. “But if it’s him, then it doesn't matter to me.” Qyra laughed one more time then left the lounge, humming as he did. If he didn’t just drop a weight on Kalmyrah’s shoulders, she would’ve thought that was cute. Deep inside, she knew that she needed to tell everyone. Tell everyone that Qyra had betrayed them, and was no longer a hero. But she couldn’t. She couldn’t and she knew it. She loved him too much. She would never let him go. All five of them would never. EXTRA:   “I am here.” “I thought...you had a mission from the organization.” “No mission is as important as you.” “Then...hold me?” “You don’t even need to ask.” “Your hands always feel nice on my hair.” “Are you a cat or something?” … “How was it?” “I got it. I’m slowly getting to the higher rankings. Soon, we’ll find a way to remove your powers.” “Yes. It’s been so long. I can’t hold on much longer. The visions are too much…” “Those fools at the Alliance. They only know how to take and yet they don’t even realize the extent of the pain you face.” “Everyday I look out the window to calm myself, but everyday it's getting more and more painful.” “I know. As I said we will cure you soon. You will be free.” “Free from this pain, free from the alliance. We can even live together can’t we?” “Of course. You and me, we will never part.”     END

It was a quiet day like another. Slith was studying in one of the consulting room of the library with his friends. “Woah dude! You really kicked the ass of that balloon down at the camp!” exclaimed Gorn overexcited as always. “… mmmh..” Slith grunted while ignoring him and reading instead the book his master gave to his class to make an analysis of as homework. “Wah! The way you played around with him with moving shadows! He was so disoriented he could not even find his tail! Ahahahahah!” he laughed again ignoring the clues telling him he did not want to talk about it. “… and while he was there blasting empty shadows with water magic thinking you were in one of them you were amounting curses on him and he did not even noticed!” “Yeah yeah...” Slith answered but missing most of his friend's chattering aside from the last part. That guy Gorn talking about was an idiot, an arrogant idiot born from a family of mages of middle class that wanted to prove himself against the “black sheep” of the academy hoping in some easy fame. One of the dozens who tried it before him. “… God I’m soooo jealous of your Corrupting….” Gorn laughed again, too exuberant to realize it was the wrong thing to say. “SHUT THE FUCK UP!!!” Slith screamed at him and halting his loud and cheery chatter. Slith hated when someone called his Darkness Magic out for its ability to make curses as Corrupting Magic. Curses spells were only a variant branch of Darkness Magic not so different from Stone spells in Earth Magic or Heat spells in Fire Magic but people took the habit in the far past to classify Curses spells as some kind of Unholy or Demonic Magic and the tendencies remained making every Darkness Mage that did anything more than moving shadows as some… corrupted and malevolent psyco. “… you know he hate that...” said Dranden, Gorn’s litter brother, in a low voice referring both to the terminology used and that someone could be jealous of that kind of shunned path of Magic. “What’s wrong with that? Who would not be jealous of the ability to incapacitate your opponent without the need to wound it?” Gorn insisted not getting the base of the problem. Slith just ignored him trying to refocus on his book and notes, if he did a poor work his master would not be clement with him and that was all he needed as a reason to ignore the idiot of the group. “That’s not the problem.” commented Colin from the near table toward Gorn. “You know that… branch of Darkness Magic is shunned off by most Mages…” Colin explained to him yet again “... even if I have to admit that it’s quite incredible how he can pass curses through shadow clones and flakes without making physical contact or marking! Slith, your are really overpowering!” he then commented. “… Said the guy that know everything that’s happening from here to the other side of the Academy…” the guy called overpowering sighed lifting his muzzle from his notes and staring at the guy just in time to see him roll his eyes like he was saying it was bullshit. “… then tell me this. How many fingers I’m flicking?” he asked him after hiding his left hand behind a pile of books. “… two no three! You are flicking your index finger and then a quarter of a second later you are flicking your ring and little finger together like they are one. Why?” he answered. “Because you are the fucking cheat and overpowering one, there is no monster or assassin that could ever ambush you with your Wind Magic, not to talk about the fact that before or later you’ll have enough Mana and control to fucking fly in the sky, so stop calling my magic overpowering and shut up.” Slith answered him gaining a series of hints of assents from the others who thought the same. “Hit and sunk!” laughed in approvation Tarlat with his powerful voice that made the near tables rumble as if a little earthquake had happened. “Oh shut up, you are the last one who could say a word for it, you Golem!” answered Colin in kind. “What was that for?” he asked back perplexed. “Dude! You are no less of a cheat! You are the one against which no one wants to be paired up in combat practice!” Gorn answered. “Thats right! The moment you create your Earth Armor or Earth Shield it’s like you already grabbed victory, you don’t leave any hope.” confirmed Colin. “Oh guys, stop exaggerate. My spells aren’t so great or advanced.” he replied rolling his eyes. “Dude! No one can put a dent in your damn defensive spells! Fucking no one can!” almost screamed Gorn before pointing his clawed index finger in my direction “Not even Fucking Slith can!” “… Darkness Magic doesn’t have a lot of offensively strong spell…” Dranden pointed out from his corner. “… and that black blade he can make? I saw him try it on your Earth Shield Tarlat and break after three attacks without even leave a scratch on it!” screamed Gorn flaming out. “But he did pass through my shield in the end.” commented Tarlat with a half smile like he put the winning piece out. “Yeah? And how many of those blade did he broke before that happened?” Colin asked calmly. “Well…” answered Tarlan stopping a moment to think “…. last time… e broke ten, no, nine! Before passing through and breaking the spell.” he answered like it wasn’t that big of a deal. “And you think to not be overpowering? Anyone else would have been dead eight times over and more in that time… all while you had all the time to counter him and create even more defensive spells in the time Slith broke that single spell.” commented calmly Colin while Gorn was silently ruffling his own fur in exasperation and disbelieve at his friend light and dismissive attitude. In the meantime Slith was focusing again on his “homeworks” while zoning out the voices of his too loud friends. “… well I..” Dranden attempted to say. ““““YOU SHUT THE FUCK UP YOU CHEAT!!!”””” the four of them shouted at him in unison cutting him out. Dranden breathed in seemingly about to say something than left it go with a sigh and went back to his notes. The guy was a fucking genius from the moment he was born, declaring with the coloring of his fur that he was blessed by the elements, sign that he would be without a doubt a Mage and a particularly strong at that. But that wasn’t all. While normally a cub with the talent for magic would manifest some sample of it around the age of ten to twelve, Dranden manifested them at the age of eight by creating a storm in his family villa after one of his brother (Gorn) tried to put a prank on him by emptying a bucket of water on his head while he was passing by the stairs that gave to the second floor. The room got devastated while the water that was about to hit his head got dispersed all around. His parents were so proud of him that they ordered a portrait picturing the scene, comprised of the ridiculously astonished face of his brother on the higher floor and the empty bucket in his hands… and it was HUGE! An enormous reminder of Gorn failed prank and the clownly face he made after. But that wasn’t enough for the little prodigy whom at the age of eleven found out that his Elemental Magic evolved in one of his advanced forms, Lightning Magic, one of the most wished kind of magics thanks to its high destructive power, attack speed and precision. Moreover his Mana Score was extremely high giving him enough Mana to activate powerful spells consecutively. By the way he involuntarily overshadowed his litter brother Gorn it was a mystery how the less talented brother could not hate him and instead they loved each other dearly even when they were so temperamentally different. Gorn was an overexcited, loud and direct Fire Mage that throw himself head first against anything caught his curiosity… or his desire to shine… by accidentally burning everyone and everything unlucky enough to be near him while Dranden was a pensive, calm, silent and talented Lighting Mage that acted methodically and never did something wrong aside from trying to cover the mishaps of his brother. Often paying from his pocket to repay the damage done. The calm came back to the room with Slith and the others returning to their respective studies. Everyone… except for Gorn “The Annoying”. “Hey Slith?” he called but got ignored. “...Sliiiiith?” he called again not giving up. “… the user you called is currently not reachable. It’s recommended to recall later… or better, never again.” Slith answered without lifting his gaze. “…. what the heck was that?” Gorn replied confused. “Probably another of his antics…” commented Taran. “Ignore it, you know he sometimes comes out with invented words that have no sense.” added Colin. “Oh… right….. Hey Slith?” he tried again. Slith sighed before answering. “What?” “I need a favor.” said Gorn. “No.” replied Slith immediately. “Why not? You don’t even know what kind of favor I was about to ask!” he replied while getting loud again. “I know you, you either want help with something dumb and dangerous or you need money. In any case the answer is no!” Slith explained without even lifting his snout from his book and notes. “Please Slith! At least ear me out before refusing!” he begged. “… God… I already know I will regret it…. What do you want?” he conceded while feeling a headache mounting while Taran and Colin started snickering. “You know my cousins Grad and Fema, right?” Gorn asked Slith. “… unluckily I do and I’m surprised no one yet killed those unweaned Grull’s head piece of shits… if you are asking me to kill them… I’d love to but you have to wait. Right now I’m busy with this research my master gave me… and you know how my master is. If I do not learn how to implement it in my spells he will make sure to put me through a situation were I do… or die trying. Which I prefer not to experiment again.” he answered him first with a happy tone and then ending with a tormented one. Slith’s master was a great mage, an Elite, a good and caring person… in a strange and grumpy way but when Magic was involved it was like he changed personality. Everyone in the room shivered at the thought of ending on Slith’s master bad side. “That’s not what I wanted to ask....” replied Gorn after taking back some courage. “I have no money to loan.” his friend replied interrupting him. “That neither!” replied back Gorn getting loud again. “…. Aaaaah! Fine! Spit it out!” Slith said admitting defeat by closing the book on his notes to focus on his friend’s request. “You see, my cousins Grad and Fema with their team…” he started. “Come to the point!” Slith replied cutting his explanation. “...I was doing it… they were organizing for an hunting excursion and begged me…” “Cut the bullshit too and come to the point! What do you want from me?” “… Oooooh fine! They wanted to go hunt Centinels in the Garste caverns north-west and because they need antidote and anti-paralysis to counter the poison of the monsters there they asked me because they know I have a friend that is part of the Malhisist Emporium whom is a renowned to be one of the best herbalist and alchemist…” “So in few words they where discussing about it and you eavesdropped them. After that you ran out begging to take you with them to hunt Centinels because you ended rotten poor again but they told you to fuck off and you insisted by telling that you would take the burden of providing the antidotes and anti-paralysis if they brought you along…. and because you are rotten poor you are now here begging me to make them for you free of charge.” Slith explained guessing the truth in the bullshits of his friend. “… well I would not really put it that way…” “I want one of the private books of your father, one about Darkness Magic… one you haven’t made me read yet in exchange for the medicines for six.” Slith requested ignoring him. “What? Are you crazy? If he find out I took one of his precious and rare books he’ll transform me in his bedside rug after beating the shit out of me!” Gorn cried out with fake despair in his voice. “Oh please! You already smuggled me a number of those rare and precious books and you seem alive and fine to me!” Slith replied with scorn. It wasn’t the first time his friend paid with the precious possessions of his father and at the end of the day it was more of a loan then an exchange. The book would return before or later in his place once he ended to read it. “…. put in 20 minor healing and mana pots plus 5 middle one of both kind and we are good!” replied calmly Gorn throwing the crying facade. “Twenty and five per kind? Bringh me half of ALL those precious books owned by your father and a chest full gold or an Artifact and I’ll accept it claws down.” Slith replied. “H-H-HA-HALF AND A CHEST OF GOLD? ARE YOU OUT OF YOUR MIND?” screamend Gorn back completely astonished. “You are the crazy one if you think I can give you all those magic pots and even some middle grade ones. What you think? That alchemists put together a couple of squished weeds into some pee and make magical potions that heals you and recharge your mana almost instantly?” Slith replied coming snout to snout with Gorn, growling the last part and with a hard tone that seeped even anger. He was born in a clan of Herbalists and Alchemists and one of the first things he could remember were his parents lamenting the chutzpah of some client lamenting the prices of their products saying that they were much too expensive for something made by “boiling some weeds”. “… no… not really! I’m sorry I did not mean anything like that!” Gorn replied pressing himself down in a demonstration of submission. He knew his friend took it personally when someone criticized his family’s professions and goods. He even put himself in trouble with the guards for it by maiming the idiots that did, more than once. uckily for him his clan got quite some power and money but most of all his master was one of the Elite Mage Hunters of the noble family that ruled their city and he cared for him just as much as the old noble took in high regards his Elite Mage and friend who had known each others from the time they were at war and saved each other life again and again. That saved Slith from getting jailed… at least from the guards… his master wasn’t so forgiving. So Gorn knew that when Slith had one of his “menacing” moments, the better things to do was make himself the littlest possible and deny having said anything that could have been offensive. Slith stared at him, knowing full well what was passing by the mind of his friend, for a moment longer and then he sat back with a thoughtful expression. “Bring me… a rare book on Darkness Magic and one on Holy Magic from your father collection and I will make you the medicines and… 8 lower healing pots, 5 lower mana pots and... two middle healing and one middle mana pots.” he said deciding what he wanted and what could offer for it. “T-two books? ...and one on H-H-H-Holy M-M-Magic?” chirped Gorn shacking anew and his mouth wide open. Holy Magic was a really rare kind of Magic that only very few were born with and no one developed in life, ever. And Dranden and Gorn’s father, the Principal of the Academy, was the only one in the city aside from the Church to have one of those books. In truth he had three of them while the church only had the copy shared and protected as a reliquary in every other big cities’ church. “That or you can at least pay for the basic resources for all the medicines and pots I’ll make. “… of how much we are talking about?” Gorn asked after thinking for a moment. “… from the city’s Herbalist, Gatherers and Hunters… it should be around 45 gold coins for everything.” Slith said while enjoin the grimace his friend made. “… and… f-from not the city?” “You’ll be able to reduce that to… around 25 gold coins if you go to different villages and cities on your own to by them… 23 golds and some silvers if you are lucky and they just brought them in.” concluded Slith giving him the total. “… if I buy from your newly opened clan’s filial store the materials?” “Around 42 gold coins.” “If you buy it?” he asked. “42 gold coins!” Slith replied with an adamant voice. “You don’t get the material discounted or for free?” asked Gorn stupefied. “Of course not! What you thought? That I could grab everything I wanted and all was good? Do I seem to you some prince of the royal family?” Slith replied with sarcasm and poison in it’s voice. “Nope!… Friend discount?” “Go buy potions in another store.” replied Slith coldly before standing up and moving toward the exit. “WAIT! I WAS JOKING!” Gorn begged grabbing the friend by the fur on his arm. “Really? Then what you prefer, the books or the gold?? Slith asked him. “… can I pay in installment?” Gorn asked back. “… Have a good day Sir!” replied Slith apathetically before moving toward the door while dragging the friend still stuck on his fur behind without effort. “NOOOO! PLEASEEEE! I DON’T HAVE THE GOLD AND FATHER WILL KILL ME IF I TRY TO TAKE HIS BOOKS AGAIN!” Gorn cryed. “Please, I’ll pay you after I’ll hunt enough Centinels!” and begged. Slith stopped dragging the guy and sighed while the others, apart from Dranden, were clearly enjoin the show from start to end. “This ain’t funny anymore.” Slith mumbled before grabbing his friend by the scurf and lifting him from the floor and on a near chair. “Gorn, look at me!” he then said to the crying friend after lowering himself to eye level and continued only after Gorn looked at him while still sniffing. “We have known each other for almost seven years now right?” he asked him and got a nod back. “You know me but most of all I know you. I know how despaired you are for money and achievement but if you go on like this you’ll only get even poorer and shunned as the black sheep of your family generation.” he calmly said to his friend while maintaining visual contact. “Every time you went out hunting for resources, monster parts or… treasures drawn on maps of dubious authenticity you ended fucking up, blasting shit to pieces, burning places down, destroying and wounding everything and everyone who was near you and in the vicinity." he said causing the other to lower his gaze in shame. "I know you don’t like to ear it but you need too. You need to stop these stupid acts.” Slith told him and then gave him a few moment to understand the meaning of his words before continuing. “Now, I know it’s not easy being the brother of Dranden with him being a genius and all that but all your escamotage to gain achievement had only ruined yours and your family’s name a little more with every area you burned, every property you damaged and every group you hunted with that got injured because of your poor control on your Spells and Magic...or because you charged in like an idiotic bull and the others ended up wounded trying to save your ass….” he said giving him a bit of time to chew it. “How many disaster you think your father will tolerate more before having enough and restrict you in an isolated villa with few servant that will act as guards and guardians so you’ll not kill someone or yourself by mistake?” “But… we will be in a cavern… with nothing to burn then…” Gorn replied weakly but Slith didn’t need to hear any of it. “That may be true, with only stone around you can’t start a fire but in a confined space your Fire Magic is even more dangerous! With no space to see and move you could friendly fire or engulf a party member as a result of a miscalculation in the area of effect or in the splash damage..” “What the heck are those wor..” Gorn tried to interrupt when words he did not knew came out frome Slith’s mouth. “Shut up and listen!” Slith barked angrily at him before going on with a more calm but adamant voice. “Do you really think they, your cousins, do not know the risk of going hunting with you? Let me tell you this: your cousins are, and Dranden can confirm it, two traitorous profiteers piece of trash of the worst kind! Best case scenario they will take your medicines and pots by telling you they don’t want to burden you with their weight and then tell you the wrong departure time so they can set out without you... or making you go but confining you to be a living torch and doing nothing else for all the hunt while making you not use any other spell aside from conjuring some fire to light the way so you can’t injure anybody. In that case you’ll not get any loot aside from some cheap change and you will not prove yourself either. Worse case scenario, they'll let you really go and you try to prove yourself, you fuck up, people get injured or die and you get the last stone of your metaphorical grave by having killed someone and owning compensation for equipment burnt, healing and the Hunters killed." "Another even worse case scenario: they bring you and do the same i just mentioned but with the differece that in the moment that something go wrong they push you in front of danger after telling you to make a wall of fire or blast a swarm of Centinels or something to smithereens while they run away leaving you there to die as a sacrifice." Slith said and received a low whimper from Gorn and a low growl from Dranden's corner "Worst-case-scenario… they fake you got “honorably” killed while hunting and protecting them in a dire attack, this way you die, the source of shame of the family disappear and they can clean the family name and stop you to make even more damage… and I’m counting out the highly possible scenario where it’s them the ones to kill you… willingly… so trust me when I say that going will only put you worse for wear instead of helping you.” “Sniff… then… what should I do?” Gorn cried this time for real. Slith lifted his sight and looked the other in the eyes only to see what he knew he would see before lowering it to his crying friend. “You still go!” said Slith. “Eh?” exclaimed Gorn with bulging eyes. “But… but you said…” “I know what I said but I think you should still go… only not alone.” Slith clarified. “Not…?!… you mean.. you’ll come with…” cried out Gorn understanding what his friend meant. “Not only him you shitty hothead!” claimed Tarlat slapping his hand on Gorn shoulders and making him release a yelp of pain. “Like we could let an idiot arsonist like you go to fuck himself up even more.” clarified Colin joining. “… better search a Water Mage to accompany us…” Dranden added like his participation was obvious… and the need of a Water Mage even more so. “… guys…” “Of course we will not be exactly with you! We will follow at a distance and join in case those piece of shit try something funny. Right?” commented Colin. “Of course, or if something goes really wrong and your ass need some saving!” confirmed Tarlat. “…. or you try a spell that isn’t Spark..” Dranden specified. “Or if it’s all a trap and they leave you behind at some point… then the need will arise to make some corpse “disappear” and create a credible story…” Slith said “of course in that case I claim the biggest part of their loot.” “Oh? And why is that?” asked Colin. “Because I’ll be the one most useful? You know, being in complete darkness and all. Just to say one thing, how do you think to follow them without light in complete darkness and without losing them when you can’t see shit? And to say another: I’m the one sponsoring the potions here! I’ve to return the investment made!” Gorn listened to his friends and brother amicably bickering, joking around and acting as dickheads and he thought that he was lucky to be in that group, after all, the Wolves have to live in a Pack. “I still want those books.” clarified Slith. “… you have no heart!” cried Gorn now half in happiness and half for despair.

Intro   Marian had never made a secret of her disapproval of Sarah, her daughter’s choice in husband. Sarah was her only child and she only wanted what was best for her, Jason just wasn’t it. He was an artist, a musician she had met in college. Always writing songs, trying to get a breakthrough as he wrote, composed, played or just listened to music for inspiration. She was convinced he had no chance of succeeding and was just throwing his own and Sarah’s future away chasing a dream.   At first when she had introduced Jason who she had met at college Marian hadn’t been too worried. It was just a phase. Sarah was still young and college was a time of experimentation. Sure she would see reason that this dreamer with his long brown hair and bright green eyes wasn’t the guy for her.   Once they got engaged right after they both graduated however worry did start to set in, would Sarah see reason before it was too late? The answer had turned out to be no as she and Jason got married a year later. With that Marian had set her hope on Jason changing and becoming the husband Sarah deserved, but now four years later they were both 26 and Jason hadn’t matured a bit, he was still that dreamy musician from college who thought he would make it big.   Jason for his part had never liked Marian either, in his eyes she was just his bitch of a mother in law who always looked down on him urging him to give up his dream and take his duties as a husband seriously. Leaving the two of them together unsupervised for longer than a minute always ended in trouble. Jason wanted to get along with his mother in law, for the sake of his wife and the sake of peace. The respect had to be mutual for that to work though.   At every family get together and every time Sarah’s parents visited or they visited them, Sarah had to be the moderator between her mother and husband. She constantly urged them to get along to the point where it was nearly all she said anymore. There was only one point they both agreed upon and that was that unless the other radically changed their ways they would never get along.   It frustrated Sarah beyond believe to the point where she just tried keep the two of them apart as much as possible. Since she obviously chose her husband’s company above her mother’s it translated in her visiting her parents way less and always finding an excuse why it wasn’t possible for them to just pop by when they wanted to visit.   If anything it only soured her mother’s view on Jason even more. Not only was he ruining the future of her daughter, he was also taking her away from her. It was something she just couldn’t let happen and so she came up with a plan that would change everything. With a cheeky smirk she got to work, refining and readying her plan to strike.   Chapter 1   Sarah had only just left the day before on her annual week long reunion trip with her college friends when Marian decided to make her move. Jason as usual was down in the basement working on his music. He loved spending time with his wife, but whenever she was away he went full out for his music. He was so wrapped up in a writing session that he almost fell off his chair when the doorbell rang snapping him right out of his concentration. Who could that be? All his friends knew not to disturb him when he had the house to himself. A little annoyed Jason headed up the stairs and to the door.   Big was his shock when he found Marian at the other side of the door wearing one of her regular monochrome designer jacket and skirt sets like she always did. No matter where Marian seemed to go she was always dressed and made up to the nines. She might be 53 right now, but objectively speaking she still looked great for her age and that meant a lot coming from Jason who hated her guts.   She was most definitely at the curvy side of the spectrum, but she wore her curves really well having a voluptuous hourglass figure going with her big bosom, bottom and her nipped in waist. The fact that she was a very pampered woman helped as well of course. Her greying hair was always painted an ashen blonde colour and permed in a stylish bob. Weekly touch ups and an established routine kept her hair looking perfect at all times, she went to the salon frequent enough for roots to never show. She was actually kind of imposing as well being just as tall as he was. She was slightly taller than the average woman and he slightly smaller than the average man.   Jason wanted nothing more than to her that her daughter wasn’t home and that he didn’t want to be bothered before slamming the door in her face, but Marian quickly spoke up. “Hello darling, before you go off please hear me out first. I have a proposition to make, a truce if you will.”   He had always hated her tendency to call him and pretty much everyone else darling. That and her whole old fashioned vocabulary for that matter. With a deep sigh he decided to give her the benefit of the doubt for now and hear her out as she had requested.   Seeing how he stepped down Marian decided to grab her chance to explain herself. She was kind of annoyed about how he didn’t even make the effort to greet her, but she wasn’t going to show it bothered her now. She had more important things to take care off.   “Thank you darling, I’ve got the feeling like I’m losing my daughter lately and obviously I don’t want that. I realise now that if I don’t want to lose her I’ll need to accept her with you. We’ll probably never be the best of friends, but for my daughter’s sake I hope we can normalise our relationship at least a little. Like she always put it we’ll need to get along. Last night while I was listening to some old music from back in my days I was reminiscing about how they really don’t make music like they used to anymore. It got me thinking that maybe you could help me out on that front. I made this little playlist with songs I like and I was wondering if maybe you could have a listen and compose something new that I would like that would be simply divine. I’ll even pay you a commission fee or whatever your business is.” Marian said handing him a non descript self burned CD.   It caught Jason completely off guard, he would have expected her to tell Sarah to see her more often, but instead she actually seemed to make the effort to show interest in what he was doing and to actually try and get to know him. While he was none too excited about her request he did want to reciprocate the effort even if just for Sarah’s sake. It would be a lot nicer if they could actually get along.   “Alright Marian, I’ll give it a listen and give it a try, now if that’s all I still have work to do.” Jason said shortly, not wanting to carry this conversation on any longer than it had to be.   “Oh you’re such a dear darling. Thank you so much and yes that will be all. I’ll be back tomorrow to check on your progress, I can’t wait to see and hear the results. Take care now darling.” Marian said with a big smile as she turned on her heels and walked back to her car.   Jason wanted to argue that things like this needed time and couldn’t just be done in a day, but before he could speak up she was gone. With a deep sigh he just headed to the living room put the CD in the CD player, who the hell used CD’s anymore these days? They were so old fashioned, but then again Marian probably didn’t know how to use a thumb drive. Since she would come back tomorrow he’d better have some results ready to show or he wouldn’t hear the end of it. Marian had never believed in him so maybe this was his chance to prove her wrong. First things first though, it was time to have a listen to that CD so he’d have an idea what kind of song Marian wanted him to compose. Pressing play he sat back on the couch and relaxed.   He was quickly growing very relaxed, way to relaxed as he listened to the slow old songs on Marian’s CD. Unbeknownst to him it had a hypnotic overlay lulling him in a deep deep trance before offering up suggestions to get deeply rooted within his psyche. “Marian, your mother in law is the most wonderful person you know, she’s smart, beautiful and overall amazing. You desperately want to get along with her and things would be so much easier if you had some common interests. The more interest you have in common with Marian the better you would get along and you want to get along with her perfectly. Marian is your idol, you desire to be with her as much as possible, you desire to be like her as much as possible.” It played on repeat until the CD had ran out of space for more, finally allowing Jason to snap out of his trance.   His head felt a little fussy, but overall he felt great, after all Marian would be coming over tomorrow. She was such an amazing woman, it was a pity that they had never gotten along too well. They really didn’t have nearly enough in common to get along and much to his shame he had to admit that he didn’t know her well enough to even begin to research her interests. All he really knew she liked was the music on the CD she had given him and since he wanted something to find some common ground to get along with her better he decided to give it another listen.   By the time bedtime arrived he had done nothing but listen to that CD, he had listened to it at least half a dozen times, and the subliminal overlay had taken a very firm hold on him having gone from a simple thought to a suggestion and eventually a solid truth. Marian was his idol, he desired nothing more than to be with her and be just like her. Luckily she would be coming over tomorrow he thought as he fell asleep.   Chapter 2   It was 7 AM when Jason was rudely awoken by the ringing of the doorbell. Who could that be to disturb him at this ungodly hour? Who ever it was they’d better have a very good reason to come here this early. He thought as he threw on his bathrobe and got down to grab the door. Big was his surprise when was Marian once again. Why would she come over this early? She couldn’t reasonable expect him to have anything ready right?   Nevertheless early or not he couldn’t help but feel exhilarated to see her, getting light butterflies in his stomach like a teen girl during a meet and greet with the latest big pop star. She looked spectacular in her fine woven plum woollen jacket trimmed with a broad white band around the collar, bottom and the button flap, the matching solid plum skirt that reached until two inches above her sheer black stocking clad knees. A pair of low heeled plum leather pumps, a tight pearl necklace and a big pair of gold and ruby chandelier earrings finished the look.   “Good morning darling, I hope I didn’t interrupt your rest. I thought I’d stop by before I need to head off to the salon for my weekly appointment. Looking as good as I do at my age takes a lot of work you know darling? Oh my, I see someone is happy to see me.” Marian chuckled looking down at the tent in his bathrobe and back up at her son in law’s face.   It was a stupid excuse to come here this early, but to be honest she didn’t care. Maybe it was stupid to jump him so early, instead of waiting, but quite frankly, she couldn’t wait any longer, she was just to curious to see whether or not her CD had had some effect and more importantly to what extend. If Jason was ready then she was more than ready to take the next steps. If his erection was anything to go on, she could only think that it must have worked in a sense. She didn’t expect her commands to turn out like this, but she guessed it was one way to interpret desire.   “Oh dear, I’m so sorry darling, I don’t know what came over me just now. Please forgive me darling, I really don’t want to offend you. Please come on in though darling.” Jason gasped his excuses over the erection Marian had pointed out, it was so embarrassing, he wouldn’t want to offend his idol in any way. His erection bothered him to no end where he didn’t even seem to have noticed the change in the way he spoke. His desire to be like Marian was so big that he automatically tried to adopt everything he knew about her including her way of speaking.   At first Marian’s jaw dropped hearing not only how much friendlier and inviting he was towards her, but above all how he seamlessly adopted the words she so often used, words she knew he loathed. If this wasn’t proof that her CD had worked wonders then she didn’t know what was. She hadn’t been expecting such huge results right away, but she certainly didn’t mind either. He was more than ready for the continuation of her plan it seemed as her shocked look turned into a devilish grin.   “Why thank you darling, you’re such a dear, and as far as our little friend here is concerned I don’t mind one bit. If anything I feel flattered darling to still have that effect at my age.” Marian spoke, quickly recuperating as she walked passed Jason, giving him a good whiff of her strong heady out dated floral perfume.   “How couldn’t you darling? I mean look at you, you look simply divine. It’s such a relief to hear you don’t mind darling, like you can’t even begin to imagine how relieved I feel darling. Now where are my manners, it’s so early, you must be in dire need of some coffee darling I know I am. How do you like your coffee darling?” Jason asked leading the way straight into the kitchen where he switched on the coffee machine.   “I would like some green tea with a teaspoon of honey, a mist of milk and a squeeze of lemon if you don’t mind darling, it’s my favourite.” Marian said as she sat down at the table crossing her legs. This really was amazing, it seemed like her son in law was truly hers for the taking.   “Oh of course darling, how silly of me not to propose tea. I should have known better. That does actually sound divine darling, I’ll think I’ll join you for tea instead.” Jason said as he turned the coffee machine back off and put a kettle on the stove. While he waited for the water to warm he cut a lemon in half and put it on a saucer, then placed two tea cups with saucer and an accompanying spoon on the table, a small can of milk, the honey jar and put a bag of green tea in each cup. He had never liked tea, but now he couldn’t wait to try it.   By the time he had found and set everything out on the table the water was ready to be poured which he swiftly did as Marian just smiled. “Thank you darling, if you’re anything like me, I just know you will love it, the taste of a well prepared tea is simply divine.” Marian spoke as she soaked her bag for a little bit, then took it out only to add in a spoon of honey, stir until everything dissolved, only to then add a little milk which she stirred some more to finally finish with a squeeze of the lemon half above her cup, which got stirred yet again before she took a sip and gave an approving satisfied moan.   Not really knowing how to handle tea Jason just covered Marian’s little ritual and had a sip himself. He didn’t really like it, way too sweet and sour for his taste, you could barely even taste the tea anymore and it was a lot more work than pressing a button on the coffee machine, it didn’t have the same kick to it either, yet he made a desperate attempt to like it. Having something extra in common with his mother in law could never hurt. He sure hoped they could have tea together more often.   “Mmm, you’re right darling, this is simply divine. I think you might have just shown me a new favourite as well. “ Jason gushed, it was a lie, but he would drink it and learn to appreciate it until it was in fact his favourite. It would be nice to have the same favourite beverage as his mother in law. He was so obsessed by the idea of being like her that he didn’t even question it.   “Oh really darling? How divine, none of my friends like their tea quite like I do, so I guess that makes us tea drinking buddies. We should really have tea more often together, it’s a delicate pleasure that’s best shared in company don’t you agree darling?” Marian spoke.   “Yes darling, that’s a marvellous idea I would love to have tea with you more often.” Jason said as they both sipped their tea while talking back and forth. It was mainly Marian doing the talking and Jason whole heartedly as he tried throughout their conversation to get his voice closer to hers in pitch and tone. It was a little tricky, but he was improving.   One of her actions he did manage to master by the time he finished his cup was the delicate way in which Marian drank her tea. Lifting the saucer up to her chest with one hand only to grab onto the cup with the thumb an index finger of her free hand and take a small sip with a raised pinkie.   Marian couldn’t help but grow more and more amazed with the extend in which he was copying her, he drank the same way she did, used the same vocabulary, his voice was slowly getting there and he was even mimicking her talking gestures. One look at his pose told her that he even sat the same way as her, back straight, with one leg crossed over the other. If it hadn’t been because of her CD and so hilarious, it would have been scary how much he acted like her. It made her all the more convinced however that the rest of her plan would pass by like a breeze.   “Thank you for the tea darling, it was divine, but I should really start to get going now. My salon appointment awaits. Tell you what though darling, why don’t you come along to the salon with me? I’m sure Jane can take care of the both of us and that mop of yours is in real need of some cleaning up don’t you agree darling. Trust me Jane is a magician when it comes to hair, she’s the one who ensures mine always looks perfect.” Marian said as she carefully primmed her hair.   “That sounds like a marvellous idea darling. At least if you don’t think it would be a problem that I don’t have an appointment. You’re most definitely right, my hair is in desperate need for a clean up and yours looks simply divine. There’s only one problem though darling. I’ve only ever been to barbers and wouldn’t for the life of me know what to wear.” Jason gushed.   “Don’t worry darling, I’m sure they can make an exception to take someone extra without an appointment this once. If you’re happy with their service and would want a follow up visit making an appointment is highly advisable though, when you do think of me though darling, I go there every week and getting our hair done together could be such fun, I’m sure of it. Trust me, if you are used to a barber shop you’re going to love the exquisite pampering they give you at the salon, you’ll never look back again. As for your clothes why don’t you show me your closet darling? I’m sure we can find you something suitable to wear.” Marian said with a slight smirk, this was just too easy, hell he was almost proactively advancing her plan.   She had thought that even if the subliminal messaged had worked it would need some convincing on her part to get him to come along to her salon, yet that didn’t seem to be the case at all, the thought that he worried what to wear to a salon instead of going there in the first place was just precious. Her salon was a rather old fashioned and all female one soft pink being a main theme in the walls and furniture. The only men she had ever seen there were husbands picking up their wives. She doubted that they had ever gotten a male client in all the 32 years it had been running. Jason would be so out of place, but then again Jane was fully filled in on the situation and she had loved it. If everything kept going as well as it already had then Jason would fit right in by the time he left.   Up in Jason’s room Marian selected the baggiest most stretchy pair of sweat pants and t-shirt she could find paired with simple socks and sneakers. It was probably one of the worst outfits he owned and it was kind of strange considering how she was dressed up to the nines, but Jason eagerly accepted her choice, after all what did he know? Marian’s concerns weren’t his appearance, at least not yet. They were convenience and this looked like the only outfit that would probably fit the curves he’d have by the time he left the salon if everything went according to plan.   After letting Jason dress they left the house and got into Marian’s care, pulling out of the driveway and heading straight to the salon as they chatted animatedly like they had during their tea. Not once did Jason question what he was doing, he just felt honoured and excited to get to spend this much time with Marian, his erection never faded, but like Marian had pointed out she luckily didn’t mind.   Time seemed to fly with their busy chatter as it seemed like they had only just left the house when they pulled up in front of the very pink feminine salon that read “Jane’s Cut ‘n Curl” a big window giving a perfect look inside of the still empty salon. It was very early still after all and Marian had wanted a head start.   Still eagerly chatting the two of them entered the salon where they were instantly met by a slightly taller quite slender middle aged woman with a burgundy bob cut and a smartly made up face. She was dressed in glossy nude coloured nylons, a simple soft pink dress and matching soft pink leather pumps with a low heel. “Ah Marian darling, it’s so good to see you again. I see you brought a friend Darling?” Jane greeted Marian with three air kisses.   “It’s good to see you too Jane darling, this here is my son in law Jason, we were having some tea this morning before I needed to come in for my appointment and I couldn’t help but notice what an unsavoury mop his hair was. Since I was headed here anyways I offered him to come along, thinking that maybe you could make an exception and take him on without an appointment this once. Seeing the divine job you did on my hair he quickly agreed.” Marian introduced Jason to Jane who wore a big smirk.   “Jason darling, this is Jane, she’s one of my oldest and dearest friends from back in high school. She has been my life long stylist as well and I haven’t had a single complaint yet.” Marian said to Jason introducing Jane to him.   “I can most definitely squeeze him in Marian darling. In fact I would be honoured to, he’d be my first male customer, he has a lot of hair to work with though so I’m sure I could handle it just fine. What do you think Jason darling? What kind of style would you like. Maybe something like what Marian has? After all you did think it was divine didn’t you?” Jane smirked, she knew of Marian’s plan, but there was no way this would work right? She had thought Marian was crazy when she told her about her plan, but she sure was more than happy to play along.   “That does sound divine Jane darling, I’m so pleased to meet you and if you could do something like that that would just be wonderful. Marian’s hair does look divine and I can only hope to look as good at that age so it’s best to start practicing early is it not?” Jason chuckled, a chuckle both women shared as Marian was very pleased. Jane was completely surprised, but she loved it. The way Jason talked, moved and how he had just agreed to go for the same style as his mother in law made her have to admit that maybe Marian’s plan wasn’t so ridiculous after all, it seemed  to be working just fine at the moment.   “Why thank you Jason darling, such a sweet compliment. While we’re here darling, why don’t you go for the full salon treatment trust me it’s divine and so much better than what a barber can offer. Besides I’m sure that with a little work Jane here could even give you some curves. Imagine it darling since you’ll be going for the same hairstyle as me that means we could even go twinning.” Marian said with a big smirk.   “Oh that sounds like a wonderful idea Marian darling I would love nothing more than the full salon treatment if you say it’s so divine and just the thought of twinning with you is like a dream come true darling.” Jason gushed as the women’s grins were only growing bigger. Jane didn’t know how Marian had done it, but she sure seemed to have succeeded big time in getting the son in law she used to complain about so much to go along with her plan. She couldn’t imagine any man rocking a look like Marian did, but she sure as hell wanted nothing more than to see it, better even she was the one who got to make it happen.   “Great choice darling, you’ll look simply divine, I’m sure of it. Now there’s a lot of work to be done so shall we get started?” Marian casually spoke as Jason and Jane both eagerly agreed. Jane couldn’t help but think that either Jason had no idea what he was signing up to or Marian had him well and truly wrapped around her finger.   Nevertheless without delay Jane guided Marian and Jason to the backroom where she told him to strip completely naked. She had a good giggle when his rock hard, but none too impressive cock came in full view. “Alright Jason darling, so the first step is hair removal. We offer three different ways to go over this, the least invasive is a close shave, of course that means that after a day a slight stubble will start to show. The second treatment we have is waxing which should get rid of that hair for a couple weeks. At least, and last but not least we offer electrolysis with permanent results.” Jane explained, wondering how far Jason would be willing to take this.   “If I were you darling I’d go for the electrolysis from the nose down. I’ve gotten my body hair taken care of ages ago and I’ve never looked back. It’s so much less hassle not to have to take care of that anymore.” Marian said trying to push him past the point of ever going back again.   “That’s a marvellous idea Marian darling. Jane darling, I would love to opt for the electrolysis  from the nose down like Marian suggested. She’s right it will be so much less hassle.” Jason carelessly gushed. He realised full well that it would mean he would never grow a beard, chest hair or even just arm hair anymore, but he didn’t care. Marian had none of those things either.   “Excellent choice darling, oh and Jane, do her down under like you did me will you? Just the bikini lines, after all a real woman has hair down there.” Marian said as Jason quickly agreed. Sarah had no hair down there and he personally wasn’t fan of a woman with hair down there, but the thought of matching Marian on such an intimate level was simple divine.   Jane just grinned as she quickly got to work as ordered. With the electrolysis machine she meticulously travelled down Jason’s body zapping every hair out of existence as he squirmed a little on her table. The sensation was highly unpleasant, but then again if Marian had been able to put up with it then so could he.   By the time Jane was done Jason didn’t have a single hair left on his body apart from his head and a neatly lined of triangle of wild growth above his rock hard cock. His skin was slightly red and tender, but the soothing cream which got applied afterwards, soothing cream that carried that same heady old fashioned flowery scent as his mother in law’s perfume, relieved a lot of that slight burning feeling.   “Look at you darling, you look and smell divine, so much better than before don’t you agree? Oh and darling since you’ll be going for a style like mine I guess it’s safe to assume you want the same colour as well right? A woman’s carpet should always match the drapes so should Jane go ahead and colour those pubes of your?” Marian asked, she was having a blast seeing how far she could push this.   “Your right Marian darling. Jane by all means, would you please take care of that for me?” Jason exclaimed. The fact that he now carried the same scent he usually associated with older women who wore way too much perfume didn’t seem to bother him. It was the scent of his mother in law and the more he could get in common with her the better.   His completely smooth body looked so alien to him, especially with the firmly near delicate outlined triangle of pubic hair sitting above his cock. It was delicate enough to even be hidden in a skimpy pair of panties, no stray hairs would ever peak out, there was definitely nothing manly left of his bush anymore and it would never grow larger again either. A fact that only got further enhanced when Jane carefully rubbed a sort of cream into the pubes.   “Now while that sets let’s see about getting you some curves shall we darling?” Jane said as she pulled out a few boxes of what looked like pretty lifelike big chunks of flesh, a pair of large lifelike silicone breasts, a large tube of strong glue, and a spray paint can of some sort. With Jason none to bothered by the sight Jane went to work.   The first thing she attached were the breast forms, they were DD sized and rather heavy as Jane glued them to his chest. They had been custom made to fit Marian’s breasts to a T, both in size and sag. Hanging free his new breasts sagged quite a lot, as was to be expected by their size on a woman in her fifties. Then again, in a bra they  still looked as spectacular as ever and so would Jason’s very lifelike breast forms. The somewhat obvious edges of the breast forms were then sprayed with the can holding liquid silicone that made them blend seamlessly with his skin once dried, just as if the breasts would have been his own. Only a very close up view could put them apart from real breasts.   Next up the flesh like chunks were glued to his hips, thighs and buttocks before getting blended to his skin with the same technique of his breasts. The chunks were rather large and constantly made him feel as though he was resting on big pillows. Their size was necessary though to achieve the 42 inch wide womanly hips and thick thighs Marian had.   By the time Jane was done Marian was simply stunned seeing just how much his body shaped up like hers, of that of a curvy gal. His legs, arms and stomach may look a little harsher than hers did, but all in all it was a pretty convincing picture. The gleam silicone tended to have wasn’t even that noticeable with how the rest of his body gleamed just as much, all smooth and well lotioned up. Oh this was just wonderful the big works looked divine and she was confident that Jane would be able to do wonders with that face of his too.   Done with adding all the padding Jane rinsed the cream out of his pubes, leaving them looking just a shade warmer than her own ashen blonde hair. “Oh darling, can I just say you are really starting to look divine? Since we’re the same height I bet you’d be a perfect fit for all my clothes at this point. Oh we’ll just need to go shopping to find you something to fit that new figure of your darling, but Jane still needs to work her magic on that hair of yours first, I bet it’s going to look divine if the shade on your bush is anything to go off.” Marian gushed.   “Oh really darling?  These new curves are really divine, but would you happen to have a mirror or something? I can’t really look past these divine breast all too well.” Jason gushed back, his erection throbbing extra hard as his desire to become like his mother in law was slowly but surely turning into a reality. Jane was all to eager to comply as Jason marvelled at the neat blonde triangle of pubic hair he now sported.   “I’m glad you like the results Jason darling, these babies should be good to go for at least a month after which we’ll need to reglue and blend them so you don’t have to worry about anything any time soon. In any case we still have a lot of work to do. Would you mind putting this smock on so we can move back into the main part of the salon darling?” Jane smirked throwing him a big pink smock that while being baggy beyond believe still showed off his curves, his new breasts tenting the front out so far that his erection couldn’t tent it anymore while his hips were now wide enough for the sides to rest on them.   Getting off of the table proved to be a little tricky though. He simply wasn’t used to the huge shift in gravity centre that came with such extreme padding as he had just received. With a little help from both ladies he managed to adapt rather swiftly though. A little support was all he needed to find his footing as he was led back into the salon, his huge breast forms swaying lewdly as he walked.   By now the salon had changed from a quite place to a very lively one filled with women Marian’s age who were all gossiping and laughing while the employees worked on their hair, nails or makeup. Everyone fell silent when he entered though, all attention immediately going towards him which got followed by lots of snickering and whispering. Nothing about his head had changed yet other than the fact that he would never grow a beard again. He still just sported a messy long haired male head on a body so curvy that it was visible even through the baggy smock.   “Hello darlings, this is my son in law Jason I’ve told you all about last week. Although come to think of it Jason might not be suited anymore, and neither is he, I know no he’s or Jason’s with such curves. She is definitely the way to go and for a new name I was thinking of maybe calling her Marion, a little on the nose, but so well fitted don’t you think darlings?” Marian said just like he would look nearly identical as her once she was done with him, she thought it would be well fitted to find a near identical name for him as well.   The whole salon erupted in bouts of laughter as everyone gushed about how divine that sounded, or how it sounded so sophisticated while others couldn’t help but gush it would be so her. When Marian turned to her son in law to ask what he or now she thought, he couldn’t help but agree. “Oh I would be honoured Marian Darling. The ladies are right. Marion sounds like such a divine sophisticated name and we’ll practically be name buddies. I love it darling.” Jason now Marion gushed.   “I’m delighted you like it darling, so Marion it is. Let’s try it out for a while Marion darling and if it feels right we can even look into getting you a legal name change darling. I mean a new ID will most likely be necessary by the time we leave here Marion darling. Nobody will believe you when you show your current one.” Marian grinned as Jason now Marion just rolled with it, not putting up any protest whatsoever as she instead followed Jane to the washing stations where they got seat next to one another.   Getting her hair washed here at the salon was so much more relaxing than it was at her old barber for Marion. The barber always only gave it a quick rinse, getting the hair wet to cut it while here at the salon it was washed thoroughly with a strong smelling shampoo that smelled just like the lotion from before. The wash was also accompanied by a thorough and oh so relaxing head massage. A rinse and another round with the shampoo followed which was in turn followed by another rinse and a wash with conditioner. By the time the conditioner was washed out Marion felt as if she was reborn. The long head massage with the warm soothing water felt like heaven.   From the washing station Marian and Marion were led to two styling chairs next to one another. No time was wasted as Jane quickly went to work cutting Marion’s  mid back long brown hair to a more manageable length so it reached only a couple of inches under her ears. It would take ages for her hair to ever reach its previous length again, but despite this drastic reduction in length Marion didn’t seem to care one bit. Marian in turn only got her split ends cut away, her weekly appointments needed no real cutting except for the very tips.   With the cutting over with both Marian and Marion’s hair was meticulously covered by a paste and left to set. In addition to her hair Marion also got her dark eyebrows covered just like how her pubes had been covered earlier.   While the paste was left to do its work Jane went ahead and dealt with the nails getting started on Marion’s toes while Marian removed her shoes and stockings. About an hour later they were both sporting deep red painted toe nails and glamour length acrylics with a high gloss finish Marion had always considered a typical older women’s colour. The long nails instantly made Marion’s definitely slightly bigger hands look a lot more delicate. The pedicure had done wonders for Marion’s feet. She usually didn’t particularly take care of them and as a result they had been a little rough with calluses now they were left feeling oh so soft and delicate though, a testament to the pampering she was receiving.   Now that their nails were taken care off Jane returned to the hair. Washing the paste out of their hair and Marion’s eyebrows, Marian was left with her meticulous ashen blonde hair while Marion’s was also completely blonde, but a shade warmer, perfectly matching her pubes. The colouring wasn’t the last of what Marion’s hair had to endure however. Soon Jane was slathering in another paste, before starting to pull hard of it as she worked it in tight bristle rollers before placing a blowdrying dome over her head and moving to Marian’s head to repeat the process.   When Jane removed the blow drier from over Marion’s head, took out the curlers and brushed her hair out, she was left with a crisp old fashioned neatly permed bob just like her mother in law had sported before. Aside from the slightly warmer warmer blonde, her hair was looking nearly identical to Marian’s once again freshly done perm once Jane was done brushing hers out as well.   “Oh Marian darling, you were right Jane is a real magician when it comes to hair, it looks divine, so much better than that old messy mop I had going. Thank you so much Jane darling.” Marion spoke enthusiastically as she primed her new extreme hair makeover with her freshly manicured hands. It was a huge change going from dark brown long messy hair which she had barely taken care off before to this short crisp light blonde high maintenance perm.   “I’m so glad I could show you this amazing place Marion darling, your hair is such an improvement indeed, maybe Jane could improve on it even further if you’d let her do you makeup? Oh and you just have to get your ears pierced darling, the range of clip ons is nothing compared to real earrings. I don’t know about you Marion darling, but I can also highly recommend lip fillers, my lips look so much better than they did before, and electrolysis for your brows is divine as well darling, no more need to bother with pliers. I know girls these days tend to go for somewhat fuller brows, but I just swear by my thin arches, they look so much classier don’t you agree Marion darling?” Marian asked prompting her son in law to go for some drastic permanent changes now that he was so compliant. With full lips and permanent  thin arched brows his face would always look effeminate, even if he decided to shave off his perm.   “That sounds absolutely perfect Marian darling, your style looks absolutely divine and I couldn’t imagine a better one. Jane darling, could you please do me a last favour and get me looking as good as Marian, fillers, piercings, electrolysis, give me the works darling.” Marion gushed as everyone around her snickered loving how this somewhat rebellious looking guy was quickly turning into a sophisticated mature woman, a near exact copy of his mother in law. They didn’t know how Marian had done it, but they sure loved it.   Jane quickly agreed and got to work, first she fixed his now blonde brows into thin arches, just like Marian’s. Taking a needle with fillers, she quickly worked on making his lips a little plumper for the foreseeable future, nothing too much, but definitely noticeable. Taking the piercing gun to his ears she pierced each love once, putting in gold keepers before attacking his face with her makeup kit.   A slightly overdone application of foundation came first, followed by dark skill-fully applied eyeliner, fake lashes, dramatically blend plum coloured eyeshadow, blusher even more dramatic to what his mother in law wore, and last but not least, deep red lipstick matching their nails, equally finished with a glossy upper coating. A sprits of setting spray followed by a spray of that same heady perfume that smelled like the shampoo, conditioner and lotion that had been used and with that Jane declared him done.   “Thank you so much Jane darling, your work looks simply divine I love it so much.” Marion gushed, her hair and makeup now a near exact replica of that of her mother in law. She looked nothing like the guy who had woken up this morning, from her curves to her face, hair and nails she looked every bit the sophisticated woman her mother in law was. It ended up looking rather ridiculous when she out the clothes she came in back on. She had to skip her boxers simply because they wouldn’t fit over her new hips and bottom any more. The once baggy pants and t-shirt now even fit snugly over the ass and chest.     “Oh Marion darling you do look divine, but that outfit is a crime against against all that is pretty in this world, It was convenient for now, but it doesn’t do your look justice.Tell you what cough darling, if we stop by the boutique I go to they may have something that’d be just perfect for you. I bought this divine set there just a couple of days ago. If we are lucky they might have another one just like it. What do you say Marion darling? Why don’t we go there after we checked out?” Marian asked as they followed Jane to the counter.   “That Sounds like a divine idea Marian darling. I sure hope they’ll have a set like yours. It would go wonderfully with my makeup.” Marion gushed back as Marian turned her attention back to Jane and paid for them both. It was expensive, but she and her husband were rather well off so It wasn’t much of a problem, besides the results were spectacular and totally worth it. Not only that, but it was an investment her husband Robert would be pleased with. He had always nagged her to just accept that Jason was her son in law and to deal with it. She was pretty certain though that they could convince him this idea was just marvellous. After all she knew he had always  dreamt of doing twins.   “Jane darling could you be a dear and set my next appointment for the coming Saturday morning? Marion darling, would you like me to set an appointment for you as well? Our style is rather high maintenance darling. I always go for weekly touch ups to prevent roots from showing, and of course to keep my perm and nails looking immaculate.” Marian gushed.   “Oh dear, we wouldn’t want that to happen would we? Could you please book me in together with Marian on Saturday Jane darling? That would be just divine.” Marion gushed, It sounded like she would be spending a lot of time at the salon, but the results were so worth it. She could almost see Marian looking back at her when she looked in the mirror. Marian was right her outfit didn’t look fitting at all, but they would soon rectify that at that lovely boutique she talked about.   With that Jane made another dual appointment for Marian and her newest regular customer, Marion. Everyone looked at the pair of them as they strutted out of the salon together, eagerly chatting yet again as they moved to Marian’s car. Marian couldn’t be happier about the results their appointment next Saturday morning would get Marion looking just perfect for when Sarah came home in the afternoon. Her daughter would get what she’d want, her and her husband getting along just fine, and she would get what she want. She doubted Sarah would stay married long to a mirror image of her own mother, It would be too weird for sure. All she needed to do was keep this up long enough.   Then again, that wouldn’t be too much of an issue. She was having a blast so far, and not only because she was having her revenge on her son in law. She was actually genuinely liking having someone around that liked all the things she liked. She didn’t really think of a plan of what to do after breaking up her daughters marriage, but like this she surely wouldn’t mind keeping Marion around it was so lovely after all.   Chapter 3   Another trip that seemed to fly by later, they pulled up in front of a cozy boutique where the main theme seemed to be lilac. The store was called “Deborah’s Boutique” not very inventive, but Marian didn’t care about that. The front window was filled with mannequins dressed in the same kinds of clothes like Marian wore each and every day. It was very obvious she came here. Her current outfit was even still on the mannequin.   Entering the store they were instantly greeted by a shorter slightly chubby woman wearing a pair of big turtleshell framed glasses. She was wearing an outfit similar to Marian, but in emerald green. “Ah “Marian darling, it’s so good to see you again!” She greeted Marian with three air kisses. She looked really shocked and surprised as she saw Marion, just like Jane she was informed of Marian’s plan to change her son in law, but seeing how much the guy already looked like her, seeing how he had gone along was simply shocking.   “Deborah darling, always a pleasure to be here. This here is my son in law Jason. Doesn’t he just look divine? We’ve just past by Jane. Although he prefers to be addressed as she right now, oh and she prefers to go by Marion now. We’ve decided to pop by as you can obviously tell the darling needs some new outfits for her new style. Especially some new underwear, the poor dear doesn’t fit hers anymore.” Marion gushed, introducing her son in law as Deborah’s shock turned to a huge grin.   “Marion darling, this is Deborah, she’s been the one who has helped pick all my outfits for the last 15 years. We’ve met at the bridge club and I’ve always adored her style. Now that I think of it, you should really come along to the bridge club some time, you ‘d fit right in, I’m certain of it.” Marion addressed her son in law.   “Poor dear indeed, we need to rectify that right away. Did you Ladies have any idea where to start or would you like to browse around some first?” Deborah gushed in mock shock. Oh she was loving the prospect of dressing up Marian’s son in law her friends used to complain about so often. Now look at them. If she crossed Marion on the streets she would think it was actually Marian at first glance.   “Well Deborah darling, me and Marian were discussing back at the salon how you might still have a set like she’s wearing on out size. That would be simply divine.” Marion gushed as both women snickered lightly, they’d didn’t even try to push it.   “Why yes Marion darling I most certainly do. I think I can match the two of you down to the panties. Why don’t you follow to the dressing room so we can get started? I’ll be right there with some lingerie for you to try on.” Deborah gushed as she disappeared between the clothes while Marian guided her eager son in law to the dressing room where she got Marion to strip naked. It was creepy so see what basically was a naked version of herself but with a cock.  Sure they still had their differences, but if Marion would pass behind a window opposite of her, It would require even her a double take to realise she wasn’t looking in a mirror. Her plan was turning out so much better than she could have ever hoped.   In no time at all Deborah returned carrying a pair of high waist full cut plum satin panties with white lace overlays at the hips. The next item she laid out was a sturdy open bottomed girdle that would start just under her ribs made in plum coloured satin with a white lace overlay front six garter straps would hold up the full fashioned black sheer cuban heeled stockings, basically informing Marion how her mother in law wore stockings rather than pantyhose. Las but not least came the heavy duty bra, a double D cup providing the support Marion’s new sagging breast would need. Like the rest of the lingerie It was made out of plum coloured satin with white lace adorning the underside of the cuffs.   The panties were quite easy to out on as the satin material felt very odd against Marion’s cock. Odd in an exciting delightful way though. They were a little too snug to fit her rock hard erection, but the high waisted granny panties helped keep it covered entirely nonetheless. The panties fit her new curvy bottom snugly yet perfectly.   Another relatively easy item was the girdle. It was way snugger to put on, requiring quite a lot of might, but eventually she got it in place. The heavy dirty support garment, nipped her waist in just a little more, only further enhancing her newly created hourglass figure.   A bit trickier, but still doable was the bra. Hooking it behind her back, especially with her newly lengthened nails was a tall task. One Marian delighted in teaching her until she could do it somewhat swiftly. The support did feel amazing though, both for her back and the skin on her chest that was pulled heavily by the weight of the breast forms.   Last but not least came the stockings, they were the most difficult item of all. Not only were they incredibly delicate, there was also so much to take in account. The seams needed to be just right, straight down the middle of the back of her legs. The front clasp of the garter was difficult enough with her long nails, but the side and especially the back garter were near impossible for her to handle. It took a lot of practice and a little help, but eventually her stockings were clasped in place as well.   Marion couldn’t help but look in the mirror and admire herself. The stockings gave the look something definitely sexy while the panties, girdle and bra were pretty but clearly made for comfort. There wasn’t much sexy about it. Yet the fact that she knew she was matching Marian down to the underwear at this point was simply divine. All that could make it better was the rest of the outfit. There was also something so sexy about how the nylons felt on her smooth legs, especially when they rubbed together. It never failed to make her cock throb.   “Thank you Deborah darling, this set is just divine. I couldn’t wish for anything better. You and Marian have such excellent taste, and these materials, they feel so much better than anything I’ve experienced before. Especially these stockings, they feel divine.” Marion gushed admiring herself in the mirror. This lingerie sure did fit her new curves and the bra made her breasts look so much better than they had when left to sag.   “I know Marion darling, it’s why I never leave the house without a pair on my legs. They do feel divine. I think I would feel naked without. We’ll have to buy a bunch more, they are so delicate after all, but first would you mind getting the rest of the outfit Deborah darling?” Marian asked with a big smirk. She fully planned on letting herself go a little when it came to her son in law’s wardrobe. He simply had to have a matching set of all her favourite outfits so they could twin for the remainder of the week or longer depending on how things went with Sarah and back at home. She sure wouldn’t mind keeping Marion around for a long time to come. If that wasn’t possible, then she’d just have doubles go her favourite outfits which wasn’t the end either with how they shared the same size.   Deborah arrived with the remainder of the outfit in short notice, the plum skirt than came a couple of inches above Marion’s knees, the  plum jacket trimmed in white, a pair plum leather pumps with a modest heel, a pearl necklace and at last the big gold and rub chandelier earrings Marian wore. Putting I all on the resemblance between her and her mother in law only became more striking as they were even harder to tell apart. There were multiple giveaways left the biggest one being the bulge of her constant erection. But reigned in by the skirt panties and girdle it was less obvious than before.   The heels despite of their relatively short heel were difficult to walk in for Marion, but walking arm in arm with Marian and receiving pointers from both ladies really helped her deal with it rather well. Arm in arm Marian led Marion over to the mirror. “Look at us darling, don’t we look divine? We’re nearly like twins.” Marian gushed.   “Oh yes Marian darling, we really do look divine, such a huge improvement on when I got up this morning. I just adore my new style.” Marion gushed back, her erection throbbing lewdly, she was almost exactly like her mother in law, that and being at her side was the best thing to ever happen to her, she felt better than ever before.   Over the course of the next two hours they slowly examined just about every outfit in the store and ended up selecting more than a dozen ones, all of which Marian already had. They looked very similar to the outfit they were currently wearing, but in different colours ranging from salmon, to vibrant blue and pastel yellow each outfit had a pair of matching pumps just like Marian’s. They also selected two workout outfits who like the clothes were rather old fashioned consisting of leg warmers and sweatbands for the wrists and head, a leotard, glossy nude coloured pantyhose and sneakers. To go with all the outfits they bought about two dozen pairs of full fashioned cuban heeled stockings in sheer nude, sheer suntan and sheer black last but not least came a pair of white high heeled slippers with feather fuss on the toes and a few silk bathrobes in different colours.   After their arm in arm shopping spree through Deborah’s store Marion was really getting the hang of walking in her heels. She could probably move on her own with the same class as Marian did by now, but walking arm in arm was just so divine. When they checked out they even needed multiple trips back and forth to the car to load in all of the shopping bags. It felt like they had bought up half the store, but it was so worth it. They’d be able to go with matching outfits for like forever.   “Oh Marion darling, today was so much fun already. I love having a friend to tag along to the salon and to go shopping who shares my style. I just never thought it would have been my son in law, but you won’t hear me complaining darling. I bet my sweet Sarah will be so pleased to see us getting along like this. In any case darling why don’t we go out for some lunch and tea? Robert is still out at his golf game. I want him to be home when we surprise him. I know the two of you haven’t talked that much since I forbade it, but I’m sure that’s going to change. I bet he’ll be all over you. After all he is a dear man who so loves my curves so he’ll go wild for yours as well. Oh and between you and me. He has a little bit of a fetish for women in nylons. It’s one of the many reasons why I always wear them. Trust me darling, meeting him will be so much fun.” Marian gushed as they got back into the car.   Marion hadn’t even thought much about her wife so far this day. Technically she and Marian did get along perfectly, yet she doubted Sarah would be happy. Then again, her desire to be with and be like Marian was infinitely greater than her desire to see her wife again. It was strange. It was so wrong, but she simply couldn’t help it.   In a way she was even looking forward more to seeing Robert her father in law than she did to seeing her wife. Robert was such a dear man, and he and Marian had been married for 33 years, getting to know him would be just divine. It would be great to get to know him way better as in a way it would be like getting to know Marian on a way more intimate level. She just hoped she would get the change. She wanted to be kissed by Robert, like he kissed Marian, she wanted to feel his hand slide up her stocking covered thigh like it often did on Marian’s.    It was so wrong on so many levels considering how she was still straight, not into men at all, especially not men old enough to be her father at 56, men with greying hair and a dad bod, yet Marion wanted to be like Marian so much that she wanted to be with Robert as well. She hoped to get the chance to get to know her idol on such an intimate level that she wished she could be part of her relationship. For now grabbing lunch would have to do.   “That sounds like an excellent idea Marian darling. Grabbing lunch Seems like a divine idea and Robert really seems to be such a dear man. I would love nothing more than to meet him darling.” Marion gushed as they drove off to a local restaurant.   Lunch like the rest of their day was simply divine. Marian and Marion never stopped talking as they had a shrimp salad each followed by tea afterwards. They kept walking arm in arm and the near creepy similarities with the difference that it was still easy enough to tell Marion was a guy close up made sure they had plenty of people staring at them. Marian loved the extra attention and Marion didn’t seem bothered by it either. Being with Marian was what mattered.   By now Marion, walked talked, and moved in a way that would even give Robert a hard time picking out his wife when looking from the back. There were still some slip ups and it wasn’t an exact match yet, but Marian was certain that with the improvement Marion has made she would be walking, talking and moving exactly like her by the time Sarah got back.   After their tea was done for the pair of them even went to the toilet together where Marion had a slightly hard time managing her new outfit. Marian was out at the sinks earlier than her because of it where she was touching up her lipstick from where it had faded slightly from her glass and cup of tea. “Here darling, I can see you need a touch up as well.” Marian said handing her the tube of lipstick which Marion gladly took only to struggled to know what to do with it.   With some pointers from her mother in law she managed to do a decent job after a few tries, but still Marian grabbed her chin to perfect it. Almost like she was making up her own face from a different perspective. It was weird to say the least, but she loved it. “Don’t worry darling. You’ll get the hang of it eventually. I’m going to teach you all about doing your makeup. Until you can apply yours just as well as I can do mine. In any case, let’s go meet my dear Robert shall we?” Marian spoke already looking forward to it.   Chapter 4   Like every trip they had taken this far time seemed to fly by as Marian and Marion chatted away eagerly. It had allowed Marion to learn so much about her mother in law and she couldn’t be happier about it. Pulling up in the driveway of her in laws Marion got out of the car and walked up to the front door arm in arm with Marian.   “Robert darling, I’m home. I hope you had a nice game. Oh and I’ve brought home a friend dear I hope you don’t mind, but she couldn’t wait to get to know you better.” Marian gushed as Robert put down his Sunday paper, only for his mouth to fall open in complete shock and disbelief when he saw his wife next to well his wife almost. Marian and her friend looked near identical to the point where he thought he was seeing double at first glance.   Side by side their differences were quite obvious though, but that only made his shock grow larger, especially upon seeing the bulge. “I went to talk to Jason like I talked about darling, and it turns out my dear son in law and I have a lot more in common than we ever thought. We had the most lovely time over at the salon together then bonded over some shopping at Deborah’s the darling is quite obsessed with my style It seems and I just couldn’t help but feel so very flattered. Oh and just for your info darling, Jason now prefers to go by Marion. Doesn’t she look just divine?” Marian gushed as the shock on her husbands face only grew.   Robert simply couldn’t believe that this near twin of his wife was his son in law, the one his wife had always loathed, a feeling he always thought was mutual. He didn’t know what Marian had done to accomplish this, but he was damn sure that this didn’t just happen. It was quite disturbing really, yet at the same time such a turn on. He nearly instantly popped a tent in his pants. God he wasn’t gay, he couldn’t believe that he got so turned on by the sight of his son in law yet here he was. Seeing a near exact copy of his wife was just so hot and admittedly his legs looked great in those nylons.his feelings towards the situation only shocked Robert more.   “Oh dear, did I do anything wrong Marian darling. Robert doesn’t look all too happy to see me. Is it my hair, is my lipstick smudged, are my seams somewhat crooked?” Marion asked feeling her hair and checking out her legs. It only shocked Robert further, Jason, or rather Marion, or whatever not only looked, but talked, sounded and moved like his wife. This was just way too weird.   “No Marion darling, you look simply divine. If I had to guess I would say my dear Robert thinks the same. At least that’s what that tent in his pants tells me. He’s usually never this excited to see me, at least not at a first glance so it has to be because of you Marion darling. I think he just needs to get used to the idea. Maybe we should help him see just how great this can be darling.” Marian gushed as she walked straight towards her husband, sinking down to her knees next to him  as she quickly started unbuckling his pants. Marion didn’t really like where this was headed, yet she sunk down to her knees on the other side of Robert. Making this work, getting to know Marian even better made this all more than worth the effort. Just like with the tea she wanted to try until it worked.   “Marian honey, I’m not gay, could we at least talk about this first, I don’t want some guy to see my cock.” Robert complained, but Marian did not slow down in the slightest. The moment she had his pants open she pulled them along with Robert’s tight whities down to his knees making his big eight inch cock pop free, proud and fully erect. It looked rather pale with a dark purple head peaking out of the foreskin while lots of greying pubic hairs adorned the base. Where Marian and now Marion’s bikini line were neatly lined off Robert just had wild growth down there.   It came as a complete shock for Marion who gasped loudly. She had never seen and never wanted to see another guy’s cock, especially not this close to her face and not the cock form a guy this old, let alone her father in law. It was extra disturbing that he now knew his father in law’s cock was bigger than his. This was so wrong on so many levels, yet as Marian wrapped her neatly manicured hand around it she couldn’t look away from it either.   “Don’t fuss Robert darling, there’s nothing gay about this. Don’t you agree that Marion is a divine looking woman? Just relax and enjoy this dear, when’s the last time you’ve had two such divine women giving you their full attention?” Marian said as she wrapped her lips around Robert’s cock and sucked him until he moaned loudly. It instantly made him forget about his complaints as his wife’s warm wet mouth felt amazing on his cock.   It kind of surprised him as Marian had never really liked going down on him, just like he didn’t like it the other way around. They always had plain old penetrative sex and even that had decreased by a whole lot since Marian’s menopause had set in a couple years back. Her libido just wasn’t what it had been before and his didn’t decrease which had often made him resort to masturbation. This was infinitely nicer so he wasn’t going to complain.   Besides looking down with his wife sucking his cock and a near exact copy of his wife looking on closely, examining his cock and wife eagerly, was about the hottest thing he had ever seen. Hotter than any fantasy he had ever had. Sure he had seen porn with pretty young twins, but this was real, this was happening right in front of him with his cock at the centre of attention.   The fact that it was his son in law looking at his cock like that, and looking so hot was disturbing, and so unreal, he still couldn’t believe this was Jason he couldn’t believe Jason looked at his cock like that, that Jason could look like that. What would his daughter think? God he couldn’t imagine she would approve at all, hell just the look of Jason now would shock her, but right in this moment Robert was too horny to even care. Marian was right, Marion was so gorgeous that this was hardly gay right, looking down he could only see two near twin women adoring his cock. Right now he should just sit back, relax and enjoy this.   Once Robert was well and truly moaning Marian pulled off of his cock. “See Marion, isn’t this just divine? I simply can’t get enough of it. My dear husband simply has the best most tasty cock ever. Why don’t you give it a try darling? I’m sure you will just love it. Just take it in your mouth and swirl your tongue around the head. Our dear Robert loves that.” Marian said as she pointed her husband’s hard cock to Marion’s face.   It might be the biggest test of how well her CD had worked so far. She had been able to push Jason way further than she had ever dared hope for, to the point where she pretty much accepted being Marion. Was it far enough though for Marion to take her father in law’s cock in her mouth. She had tried her best to act and sound as if she loved it hoping it would make Marion love it as it would make Robert’s acceptance of her so much easier. That and her husband earned it. She often felt bad about not being able to provide him with all the pleasure he wanted anymore so a younger cock hungry version of herself would be ideal as she really didn’t like giving blowjobs to compensate either.   There was a slight hesitance in Marion’s reaction, but in the end the desire to be just like Marian which apparently meant loving Robert’s cock over took her common sense. She couldn’t believe she was really doing this, sucking her father in law’s cock, Sarah would be shocked beyond believe, but she really wanted to be like Marian so she wanted to learn to enjoy this. Closing her eyes Marion opened her mouth and let the head of her father in law’s cock slide inside her mouth.   The texture was so weird, and the strong musky taste and smell of pre cum was nasty. She didn’t like it one bit, especially not given the all overwhelming context, but she never tried to back down, swirling her tongue around the head like Marian has suggested. She couldn’t help but feel a certain pride when she managed to get a moan out of Robert, just like Marian had.   Meanwhile Robert had wanted to put a stop to this, he wasn’t gay and getting his cock in his son in law’s mouth instead of just having him watch would be way too awkward despite his earlier intention to enjoy this. Still somewhat in the groove of his wife’s blowjob he had been too slow to react though and now that he felt Marion’s equally warm wet and divine mouth wrapped around his cock he just couldn’t muster up the strength to stop her. It felt too good despite being absolutely wrong.   Marian was licking her lips, apparently her control over Marion was absolute. Even if Sarah would have been able to put up with her husbands permanently smooth body, and his thin arched brows there was no way she would forgive him cheating on her with her own father. There was no way she would be able to kiss the lips that had been wrapped around her father’s cock again. For this she was rather certain that she had succeeded in her goal. Now all that was needed was to keep it up until Sarah came home on Saturday in a little less than a week.   “That’s it Marion darling, now take it as far down your throat as you can, bob that head of yours up and down and don’t forget to flick the tip of our dear Robert’s cock whenever you move up.” Marian said, giving her son in law pointers as he kept sucking her husband’s cock with a certain eagerness, trying to like it as best as she could as more precum flooded her mouth.   She wasn’t a pro by all means, but the sheer effort and eagerness with which Marion sucked his cock felt amazing to Robert. No one had ever sucked him this eagerly before and he loved it. He knew this was probably the end of his daughter’s marriage, but then again, a guy who dressed up like this and jumped his cock wasn’t the kind of husband he wanted for her. Maybe this was just for the best, to save his daughter from this freak, who he had to admit he was really loving as his pleasure only grew.   For the better part of 10 minutes, Marian kept giving pointers as Marion continued sucking her father in law’s cock. She sucked for way longer than Marian ever did to get the ball rolling and get her husband to accept it while getting Marion to believe she loved sucking cock. She was glad she wasn’t in Marion’s shoes as her husband exclaimed. “I’m cumming darling.” He always did warn her on the rare occasions she did suck him off, afraid that It might be his last blowjob otherwise.   Much to his surprise however Marian didn’t make Marion pull back like she always did, instead she ordered her. “Alright Marion darling, why don’t you pull back and keep just the head in your mouth? Flick it with your tongue until all that nice and tasty cum comes out. I just love it and I’m sure you will too darling. You just have to give it a shot, you should try to really savour it and don’t forget to swallow once you are done.”   Marion didn’t like the thought of letting her father in law cum in her mouth, but she really wanted to learn to enjoy it like Marian did, and so she didn’t pull back, instead she followed Marian’s instructions to the letter after which it didn’t take long for Robert to fill her mouth with his thick, sticky slightly bitter salty load. It tasted worse than the precum, Nevertheless Marion took it all before finally pulling off of Robert’s cock, only to swish the load around in her mouth for a little while, trying to get herself to enjoy the taste before eventually swallowing.   Look down at his cock which slowly grew limp Robert was completely amazed. A bright red ring sat at about three quarters of the way down, about as far as Marion had been able to take him with her lusciously painted lips. Her lipstick looked rather smudged, but thanks to the fact that she wore fake lashes rather than mascara her makeup had been relatively saved from being ruined. Marian’s lipstick just like his son in law’s who looked like her near twin was equally smudged from the sucking she had done. They both looked gorgeous in his post orgasmic bliss. No one had ever swallowed his load, not until now when his son in law all made and dressed up like his wife had been the first. What had he done? This was so messed up.   “So Marion darling, how did you like my dear Robert’s cock?” She asked with a big smirk as she pulled out a compact mirror, her tube of lipstick and a tissue only to start and repair her own lips.   “Oh It was absolutely divine Marian darling, Robert is such a dear man and his cock is every bit as tasty and delightful as you said. I can hardly wait to do it again. That’s of course if you liked it Robert dear?” Marion asked as she took the lipstick, compact and tissue from Marian to start touching up her own lipstick. It wasn’t near as perfect as Marian’s job, but she was improving.   “Uhm yeah, it was amazing, Maria.. I mean Marion honey. I definitely wouldn’t mind doing it over.” Robert said awkwardly, god why did he just call Marion honey? That was a name he always reserved for his wife, not his son in law, but they did look so much alike. He still couldn’t believe he had shot his load in his son in law’s mouth, yet just like Marion he hoped he could do it again. It was so much more satisfying than using his hand and shooting into a tissue even just him and his wife being around was such an amazing sight. As fucked up as it was that it was his son in law he loved having twin wives.   “See Marion darling, I told you my dear Robert would think you’re divine. He never calls anyone honey except for me. Oh and by the way, I just had the most divine idea. Robert dear, what do you say? Wouldn’t it be a shame to sent this poor darling home all alone? Our bed is plenty of big to fit one more. Would you mind Marion spending the night? I bet she’d be delighted to take care of your morning erection before you have to leave for work.” Marian suggested with a smirk.   “Sure… uhm honey, that sounds like a great idea Marion is welcome to spend the night if she wants.” Robert awkwardly stammered. He couldn’t believe he just agreed to share the bed with his son in law even after his orgasm, but even now his near twin wives were so hot together. That and he had never gotten his morning erections taken care off which sounded just as awesome.   “Thank you Robert dear, that sounds divine I’ll make sure you won’t regret it.” Marion said as Marian took over to ask her to help out in the kitchen which she eagerly did. Robert just looked amazed as he saw his twin wives walk off to the kitchen together while he still sat there with his pants around his knees and his lipstick ringed cock hanging limp between his legs.   In the kitchen Marion and Marian was busily Chatting about their day and Robert while they cooked diner together. It was mostly Marian showing how everything was done with Marion following her lead like she had done all day. When they were done Marian made Marion call Robert over. “Robert dear, dinner’s ready.” She chimed in a voice good enough that it was only when Robert arrived that he had realised it wasn’t his wife who had called him over.   He enjoyed his dinner mostly in silence while the women did all the chatting. His amazement of how much they looked, acted and sounded alike never ceasing as his cock slowly grew hard again. When Marion and Marian once again exchanged lipstick to touch up their makeup he grew from half hard to fully erect.   This time it was Marion who was first to notice. “Oh Robert dear, you’re hard all over again, would you like me to take care of that for you?” Marion offered without a doubt. She wasn’t all that eager if she was honest, but the more she got to try the more she could learn to enjoy it like Marian did.   “That’s a great idea Marion darling, why don’t you take care of our dear Robert? I’ll take care of clearing the table in the mean time. Enjoy darling.” Marian gushed, moving how well this was all turning out. Robert didn’t protest to much either, he just silently shoved his chair back as Marion sunk down on her knees before him and started to undo his belt before freeing his cock and latching on.   With that the aftermath of the dinner past by, Marian cleared the table and cleaned up, swaying her big hips seductively and showing plenty of breast for Robert to enjoy while she picked up his plate while Marion went to town on his cock, eagerly sucking until her father in law once again came into her mouth. Without hesitation she pulled off, took a moment to savour his load before swallowing and retouching her lipstick while Robert pulled up his pants and thanked her.   Now that diner was over and everything taken care of, they all went back to the living room and got comfortable on the couch where Marian picked a drama movie for them to watch. Robert didn’t really care, too busy with his twin wives, and neither did Marion, but like all things she wanted to learn and appreciate Marian’s style as she settled into Robert’s arm at the opposite side of her mother in law.   Chapter 5   The movie passed by rather uneventful, Robert loved having an arm over each of his twin wives shoulders, their heads resting on his chest on the exact same manner causing an erection to slowly grow yet again. Marion’s own erection was still going strong as she had tried to appreciate the movie Marian had put on just like she tried to appreciate the taste of her father in law’s cum after the blowjob she had given him for dessert.   When the movie ended they all got up and Marion once again noticed Robert’s erection. “Oh my Robert dear, want me to take care of you again?” She gushed already moving in to free her father in law’s cock once more.   This time Marian stopped her though. “Marion darling, would you mind leaving this one for me? I’m aching for some of my dear Robert’s cock myself. He must really adore you though, it’s probably thirty years ago that he managed to have this many erections in a year. In any case let’s move up shall we?” With that Marian took the lead as both Robert and Marion followed along, agreeing eagerly to Marian’s request.   While Marion would have liked to learn to appreciate Robert’s cock more, something she was still failing at, the last thing she wanted was to deny her idol anything at all. Maybe she could learn a thing or two still and she was more than happy with the simple fact that she got to sleep together with them.   Up in the bedroom Robert quickly stripped naked, his big cock standing out from under his slight belly. It was a bit of a shocking sight for Marion, even after sucking that cock of his. Robert wasn’t that bad for a man his age, but Marion just wasn’t into men, definitely not men twice her actual age. The only reason she tolerated and tried to adore Robert was because he was Marian’s husband.   Like Robert Marian soon stripped out of her skirt, jacket, heels and panties, still leaving most of her lingerie on knowing how her husband loved it. It revealed her pussy underneath a very similar pubic bush like Marion now sported.   With a loving embrace Marian hugged her husband and kissed him full on the lips as they fell back on the bed together. Just like him she hadn’t been this horny in a while, the excitement of today definitely managed to reignite her severely diminished libido after her menopause had hit. She had loved seeing her son in law become just like her and seeing him cheating with his father in law had been the cherry on top. Without further ado Marian who lay on the bottom guided her husband’s cock into her pussy and moaned. “Mmmmm oh god Robert dear, give that divine cock of yours to me. Marian darling, why don’t you strip as well, you can leave your panties on though, then you can join us.”   Marion didn’t need to be told twice as as she stripped down to her lingerie, grateful to be out of these heels that had made her feet and legs ache and got onto the bed right next to Marian. Without hesitation her mother in law pulled her in for a long deep make out session while she got fucked hard by her husband. It was one of the hottest sights Robert had ever seen, his lingerie clad wife and her twin making out while he was balls deep into his wife. He feared that he wouldn’t be able to hold out long like this.   While her in law’s fucked right next to her, Marion had mixed feelings, making out with her idol was great. Getting to be part of this all was simply amazing, but at the same time she had to face that she would never be the same, she didn’t have a pussy after all. Maybe she could let Robert fuck her ass some time, but that wouldn’t be the same either.   Robert ended up giving his wife only one orgasm, before filling up her pussy with his cum where he previously managed to give her multiple with a single erection. The sight was just too hot to take, but Marian didn’t say anything about it while they both caught their breath. Marion just looked on next to them until Robert finally pulled out and got under the sheets.   Marian on the other hand just got up, cum slowly starting to leak out of her pussy as she beckoned Marion. “Are you coming Marion darling? We still need to prepare for bed.” She cheerfully spoke as Marion was a little confused she just used to strip and get under the sheets making her wonder what they still needed to prepare.   It turned out to be a whole lot as the first thing Marian did was sitting down on the closed toilet lid and spreading her legs, cum slowly running down to her asshole. “Would you please take care of that for me darling? You can lap it up, my dear Robert’s cum is way too precious to go to waste don’t you agree darling? That and I feel bad enough for taking his delicious cock all to myself, this way you can share in the fun.” Marian said as if it was the most normal thing in the world.   “Oh with pleasure Marian darling. You’re way too nice and it’s a divine idea, like you I can’t get enough of our dear Robert’s cock and cum.” Marion said kneeling down before her mother in law as she started lapping the cum out of this way older woman who looked like her mirror image’s pussy without hesitation. She wanted to take this chance with both hands, to grab the opportunity to learn to appreciate Robert’s cum some more, and of course getting to spend such an intimate moment with her idol.   She scooped up the cum that had leaked out of Marian’s pussy, before wiggling her tongue all the way up there to suck whatever remained of the load out. On top of the taste of cum she now also got a taste of the tanginess that was Marian’s pussy mixed in. Apparently Marian really appreciated her efforts as she started moaning loudly.   Marian who had only very rarely given blowjobs and had never been eaten out before instantly fell in love with the feeling of a warm wet nimble tongue pleasing her pussy. It was simply great, weird to see twin, her son in law between her legs but great. Her intentions had been just to let Marion do the cleanup, to provide extra shock value if she still needed to convince Sarah to drop her husband, but she was loving this way too much to stop. Besides why should Robert get all the fun out of this? “Don’t stop Marion darling you are doing and mmmm amazing job.”   Not planning to stop in the slightest Marion carried on eating her mother in law and idol’s pussy until Marian came all over her face. She doubted Sarah would be happy about all of this, but it was just too good not to give in to. The only thing that could be even better was her erection getting taken care off as well as she had provide both her in laws with orgasms. while her day long erection got ignored.   It didn’t look like she was going to get relief herself as Marian after coming down from her orgasm simply got up and started to strip. “Thank you darling, that was simply divine. Now let me show you how to get ready for bed our style is a bit of a high maintenance one.” She explained as she proceeded to show Marion how to clean off her makeup, apply a green night time facial mask, put her new hairdo in rollers only to protect it with a pink haircap and with that she declared herself done, apparently Marion’s in laws slept naked, yet another intimate fact she got to know about Marian, just like seeing her without makeup for the very first time felt rather intimate.   Following Marian’s instructions to the letter Marion got ready for bed herself. She couldn’t help but wonder how she would ever manage to fall asleep with a head full of curlers, but if it made her look like her mother in law then it was all worth it she thought as they re-entered the bedroom arm in arm, both completely naked.   Robert couldn’t believe his eyes as he was treated with the sight of his wife and her near identical twin heading towards them. The curler and mask look wasn’t the sexiest look out there, but he had gotten used to seeing his wife with it, besides their naked curves more than made up for it, identical down to the sag of their breasts. As truly magnificent as it was, the sight was quite confusing as well being confronted by a rock hard cock was weird and somewhat appalling to him. It was especially weird seeing a cock on a near exact copy of his wife, but at the same time that made the look of a cock tolerable   “You don’t have to worry Robert dear, Marion won’t be doing anything with that cock, just ignore it, act like it isn’t even there. Marion is every bit as much a lady now as I am Isn’t that right Marion darling?” Marian spoke seeing the look of confusion on Roberts face.   “Oh absolutely Marian darling, I’ve been feeling so divine that I nearly forgot it was even there. As far as I am concerned your cock is the only one there is Robert dear, and it’s so divine, so delicious and tasty, I can hardly wait to get my lips around your morning wood.” Marion spoke. In reality her cock was in desperate need of attention and she didn’t particularly look forward to having anything to do with her father in law’s cock again. Marian was right though, she was a lady now and the fact that her mother in law considered her every bit as much a lady as she was was simply divine. She couldn’t help but feel overjoyed at the fact that she acknowledged they had so much in common now. As far as her and Robert’s cocks were concerned she would fake it till she made it, ignoring hers until she really forgot it was even there while worshipping Robert’s until she really loved and appreciated it as much as Marian.   Whatever doubts Robert had about Marion now that her cock was out faded to the back ground with the reassurance that his cock was the only one she cared about. Her otherwise hot look, the compliments to his cock and the prospect of his morning blowjob were more than enough for Robert to be able to look past her cock, especially when she and his wife split at the foot of the bed only to each go to a side, sliding under the sheets at either side of him.   Marian cuddled up to her husband the way she always did, her breasts pressing into his arms as she reached up to give him a good night kiss on his cheek. It was another ritual Marion eagerly observed only to then mimic in the hope of being even more like Marian, of having even more in common. Her fake breasts for as much as they looked like Marian’s didn’t quite feel the same, yet Robert was surprised to feel just how close to real they felt as the silicone had also warmed on Marion’s chest.   With a wife cuddling up on either side of him the lights went out and Robert slowly drifted off to sleep, completely amazed and mesmerised. He couldn’t believe how incredibly lucky he was to have twin wives in his life. He knew how Marion was technically his son in law, but with how she looked that was very easy to overlook. Robert knew it was wrong, but he chose to just ignore it and look at Marion as his wife’s equally hot way more eager and slutier twin. All he could think of as he drifted off to sleep were the many amazing moments he would have with both wives if today had been anything to go off.   Marian on the other hand could only think of how amazing today had been, she couldn’t believe how her son in law could make such a perfect copy of hers, but she adored it. She never thought having a twin who literally shared all your interests could be such fun the fact that she was getting back at Jason and providing her daughter with the chance to find a real husband this time only made it better. It wasn’t only fun either, but great help as well, Marion helping her with the cooking and setting the table eased the work she had to do, and she was such a boost to their sex life giving her dear Robert everything she thought he deserved, but wasn’t able or didn’t like to provide herself. She was already looking forward to her very first full day with her twin tomorrow.   Marion for her part could only think of how amazing it was to get to cuddle up to her father in law exactly like Marian did. Today she had learned so much about her mother in law, they had shared so much from the teas she like to the same underwear and even the same cock. They had been inseparable all day and she just loved it, spending time with Marian was just the best and even though she didn’t like most of what had happened today she was more than happy to learn to appreciate it all so they could truly share the same interests. It was her ultimate goal, but right now she was so satisfied with how much they already shared.   Chapter 6   On Monday morning the trio got awoken by the loud sound of Robert’s alarm. He still had a couple of years to go before he could retire so today was a working day like any other, aside from the fact that he woke up with two wives confirming that this all hadn’t just been a dream. His morning wood was harder than ever feeling a set of real and a set of fake breasts press at his side.   Marian was quite used to her husband’s alarm already, but Marion wasn’t she wasn’t used to getting woken up this rudely or early at all. She had always had a little bit of a morning mood, but she didn’t want to ruin her chance to stay with her mother in law so instead of groaning she sucked it up. She even managed to force a smile on her green goo covered face as Robert swept the cover off of them to get up. It was cold and unpleasant, but her eyes instantly went down to his rock hard cock.   “Oh Robert dear, you’re all hard. Why don’t you let me take care of that and ease your tension before you get up? It simply looks divine, I can’t get enough of that gorgeous delicious cock of yours.” Marion eagerly asked as she wrapped her well manicured hand around Robert’s cock, already moving in between his legs before he had a chance to respond. Not that Robert minded at all, this was simply amazing, having someone this eager and excited about his old cock, it was like he was entering his second youth.   “Uhm sure Honey, I guess I have a few minutes to spare.” Robert replied, a little nervous as he could also see Marion’s cock, but this was too hot to turn down. He didn’t regret it one bit as Marion didn’t hesitate and instantly moved her head down and sucked his cock into her mouth, eagerly swirling her tongue around the head of his pre cum leaking cock, wiggling underneath his foreskin as she went at it like she was savouring every moment. She couldn’t help but catch a faint taste of stale pussy from when her father in law had fucked her mother in law just before bed, not that she let that stop her. Robert meanwhile guessed he could cut his shower down by a few minutes and hurry a little, a small price to pay for this amazing blowjob before he had even gotten up.   While Marion sucked her husband off Marian gave him a passionate morning kiss like she hadn’t done in a very long time. Only to then look down with a smirk on her son in law, her project sucking her father in laws cock. “Isn’t she just beautiful Robert dear? She really seemed to love your cock as much as I do doesn’t she, tell me, does she suck as good as I do dear?” Marian asked.   It confused her husband a little as his wife didn’t like sucking his cock like Marion seemed to do, they were about as skilled , but Marion’s eagerness made it all that much more pleasant. Still Robert didn’t want to upset his actual wife so instead he diplomatically answered in between loud moans. “Yes Honey, she is definitely as orally gifted as you are.” It made Marian smile big time while Marion beamed with pride. She might not really love it as much as her mother in law just yet, but at least she could match her in skill which was a start and yet another thing in common which was just divine.   This big boost made Marion redouble her sucking efforts and in no time at all the sensation simple became too much to handle. Marian’s effort, the near mirror image of his wife who was making out with him like years ago, it all became too much as he exclaimed. “I’m going to cum honey.” Marion didn’t even try to pull off his cock, instead she just moved her mouth up to the tip of his cock, allowing him to fill her mouth with his warm salty cum.   Once she was absolutely certain that no more cum would come out Marion pulled off of Robert’s cock and promptly swallowed his load before kissing the tip of her father in law’s cock. “Thank you Robert dear, that was simply divine, you truly have the most delicious cock in existence.” Marion smiled up at her father in law, seeing how he and Marian looked down on her, Robert looked completely mesmerised while Marian looked delighted, just as she had hoped. It was so good to have so many things in common with such a wonderful woman as Marian.   It took a few moments for Robert to regain his senses, but once he did, he quickly jumped up and got out of bed. “Thank you honey, you were amazing down there, but I really need to get ready now.” Robert spoke as he hurried off to the bathroom, his saliva slick cock dangling freely between his legs as it slowly but surely went limp.   Marian for her part got out of bed as well, in no way shy to be completely naked in front of her son in law and look alike, well naked aside form her rollers, hair net and nigh time mask that was, just like Marion. “You really seemed to be enjoying yourself down there Marion darling, I just knew after all those common grounds we share that you would love our dear Robert’s cock as much as I do.” Marian gushed, further reinforcing Marion’s desire to love her father in law’s cock.   Without further ado Marian put on a simple silk plum bathrobe along with a pair of white high heeled slippers with some feather fuss on the toes. She held out a similar bathrobe and pair of high heeled slippers like hers for Marion to wear. “Here Marion darling, why don’t you put these on and help me downstairs with breakfast? I’ll show you just how Robert likes his breakfast made and how I like mine.” She simply stated as Marion eagerly walked over to her, her hips swaying the same way hers did as she was really starting to get moving like Marian down to a T.   “That would be divine Marian darling. Our dear Roberts simply deserves the best breakfast and I can’t wait to learn from you darling.” Marion gushed as she quickly changed into the same outfit, her rock hard cock covered up, but poking the front of the bathrobe as she followed her mother in law down to the kitchen where she learned to prepared bacon and eggs for Robert, just the way he liked it. They came with a good fresh mug of coffee, all things Marion would love to have for breakfast. Yet as Marian explained how she had a simple light granola yoghurt for breakfast along with tea just the way they liked it Marion ended up settling for that instead. As much as she would have loved to have Robert’s breakfast walking in her mother in law and idol’s footsteps was so much more important to her.   Robert still couldn’t help but be mesmerised when he came down stairs, freshly shaven and showered, dressed in a simply shirt and some dress pants only to be greeted by a delicious fresh breakfast. It was the same as every morning really, only this time there was a wife sitting at either side of the table head, still wearing their hair rollers and green night time mask. Their curves covered in nothing but the silk robes as they both looked at him lovingly, they legs crossed over one another in the same elegant position. They simply welcomed him at the table as he took his seat and started devouring his meal in a hurry, not wanting to be late for work.   Only when Robert had started eating did Marian dig in, Marion closely observing and following her lead. She had the tendency to dig in and devour her own meagre breakfast, much like Robert was devouring his, but Marian was far more controlled. Her mother in law only took one small bite at a time, with a rather long pause between bites and an occasional small sip of tea to change things up.   Marion really had to restrain herself to follow the same delicate eating pace as her mother in law, but like with everything she wanted to be like Marian so badly that she did her absolute best to mimic her. Meanwhile Robert ate his way larger breakfast in a mere ten minutes while they were only halfway through theirs. It didn’t phase Marian or Robert as it was their morning routine. Robert just got up once he was done, and gave his wife a quick kiss on her cheek. “Have a good day Honey.”   “Thank you dear, have a great day at work, love you.” Marian sweetly replied with a smile as Robert turned a little more awkward, it was strange to have a second wife to greet, kind of breaking his habit of just heading to work now, but then again Marion deserved the same respects considering she was basically his second wife. He gave her a kiss and a greeting just like he had done to his real wife as Marion repaid in kind, delighted to have such an intimate moment in common with her mother in law, to get treated like an equal.   Chapter 7   Once Robert was off to work Marian spoke up. “So Marion darling I hope you have been enjoying your time here with us. I’ve surely had a divine time so far and I’m sure the same goes for our dear Robert. He’s always on a clock to get to work which is why I don’t try to strike up a conversation during breakfast. Now that he’s out for the day I would love to hear how you feel though darling, I never quite realised just how much we have in common and it’s a divine revelation really.”   “Oh I have been having the most divine time myself Marian darling. Robert is such a dear man and his cock is simply to die for. I feel so blessed to get to spend so much time with you and our dear Robert darling. I don’t know why I have always been so hostile to you Marian darling and I am truly sorry, you are the most divine woman I know a real example if I may say so darling.” Marion gushed back as they slowly carried on with their breakfast.   “Don’t worry about it Marion darling, I would guess you were just jealous of my style and my life, unable to achieve it with societies standards that you are the man and need to provide darling. I mean come on, the fact that you were trying so hard with your music is saying a lot. Lets be honest you were never going to provide for even yourself like that were you darling? No, I think deep down you have always been nothing but pampered woman in need of a man to provide for her. The fact that you so eagerly adopted my style just confirms it. I believe you have just been misunderstood.” Marian spoke.   “I’m so glad I invited you along to the salon so you could find your true self thought Marion darling, cause trust me, I understand perfectly how you feel. I wouldn’t want to trade this life for anything in the world at all darling. I’m sure Sarah will understand, she was telling us to get along better after all and what’s not to love about getting twice as spoilt. I’ll make sure to teach you all her favourite recipes.” Marian continued only barely able to hide her smirk, no way Sarah would put up with a husband just like her mom, especially not one who also had sex with her dad. This was going to be perfect.   “Now Marion darling I doubt there’s anything waiting for you at home and you aren’t going to make a job out of that hobby of yours any time soon so if you want you are free to stay here for the remainder of the week darling, after yesterday night and this morning I’m sure our dear Robert won’t protest. Besides having someone with so many common interest around has simply been divine. All I ask is that you help out around the house a little, sharing my usual chores. Working with someone is surely a lot more fun and I am convinced that I can still teach you a thing or two.” Marian finished as she finished up her breakfast.   “That would be absolutely divine Marian darling, I couldn’t think of any better way to spend my week and I am quite certain that I have a lot to learn from you darling, how could I not, you are such a divine woman.” Marion gushed, she really wouldn’t have it any other way, nothing sparked joy for her the way spending time with Marian did and the fact that she could learn from her idol only made it better.   “In that case why don’t you follow me upstairs Marion darling? I would love to show you our morning routine.” Marian gleefully spoke getting the exact answer she had been hoping for. Oh this was just perfect on so many levels she couldn’t believe she hadn’t done this way earlier. Smiling broadly she led the way up to the master bathroom with Marion following closely behind.   Once in the bathroom Marian instantly took the lead, she replaced her hair cap with a shower cap that looked near identical aside from being made out of plastic rather than cotton. She then put two big fluffy pink towels on a small table just outside the shower and stripped out of her bathrobe and slippers. Completely mesmerised by the look of her naked mother in law Marion followed her lead changing caps to protect her hair and stripping out of what she currently wore only to quickly join Marian in the spacey walk in shower.   “Alright Marion darling, why don’t we do it like this? I wash you, you wash me? It’ll make it much easier to get everything clean that way. Just watch and enjoy what I do and you can return the favour after that.” Marian said not really waiting for an answer as she took a loofah, squeezed on a big dollop of strongly floral smelling soap and stared lathering her twin looking son in law’s body up.   Marian was extremely thorough, Marion was used to just kind of washing her armpits and crotch, but Marian made sure she was all soaped up head to do, from washing off her facial mask to deep within the cheeks of her newly enhanced butt and under the slight sag of her breast forms. It took nearly ten full minutes, but once Marian was done having used liberal amounts of soap Marion smelled like lilacs all over. The only part Marian had been quick and efficient on was Marion’s cock. She had washed it, but in a hurry.   Declared done Marion took over the loofah and applied a generous amount of soap to it just like Marian had done. Wasting no time at all Marion stated washing her mother in law’s body with he same attention she had received, not hesitating to get all over and under her breasts and in between her thick butt cheeks. It felt weird to be so close and intimate with another woman than her wife, to study a mature body all over, but then again she pretty much shared such a body and she couldn’t be happier about it.   Eventually Marion was finished with her task as well which was Marian’s que to turn off the water and get out of the shower. Marion followed closely, drying herself and tucking the towel over her chest just like Marian did. “Alright Marion darling, one thing that goes hand in hand with showers for me is the use of lotions. You really start needing them at a certain age, but even before that it’s good to keep your skin healthy and hydrated. Smell this, doesn’t it just smell divine?” She asked as she opened a big jar of lotion.   Leaning in for a whiff all Marion smelled was an overpowering scent of lilacs, just like the soap they had used. It wasn’t a scent Marion had ever wanted before, but it was Marian’s scent which made it her number one priority. “Oh Marian darling you are right, this lotion does smell divine. I can’t wait to try it out.” She said.   “Lovely Marion darling, well what are you waiting for? Treat yourself to a scoop and just follow what I do, I’m sure you’ll love it just like me.” Marian said as she scooped some out and started rubbing it into her face, on her elbows, then down on her feet all the way up to her knees. As Marion followed what she saw she couldn’t believe how silky soft the cream felt, or her own skin for that matter. Completely smooth it certainly was a lot more sensitive and so much more pleasant to the touch. What shocked her the most though was how soft her face was. Not even her wife’s face was this soft, and hers certainly hadn’t been for a long time, there had always been a rough stubble, but with her beard electrolysed off that was entire gone. The added softness had only been enhanced by the night time mask and now the lotion.   “Feels divine doesn’t it Marion? In any case lets get dressed shall we? It’s about time we started our day.” Marian spoke excitedly as she walked out in the room and instantly went for the big walk in closet that house a small section of Roberts clothes and a ton of her outfits, many of which now had a double next to it after their shopping trip yesterday.   “Hmmm, lets go with this here, some matching lingerie and heels and we are all set darling.” Marian said as she brushed through the numerous outfits, shoving item after item in Marion’s hands before grabbing the doubles herself. The outfit looked to be the same as they had worn yesterday. Only this time the main colour was yellow, that went for the jacket, skirt, panties, bra, the girdle and the low heeled pumps. A pair of suntan coloured stockings was decided on to finish the look.   “Oh Marian darling, I really can’t get over just how divine your style is. I adore this look.” Marion gushed as she and her mother in law walked back in the room and sat side by side on the bed. This was one part that needed no explanation as Marion still remembered how to put all these things from the store. She and her mother in law went nearly in sync as they slid their big butts into the yellow satin high waisted panties. Sliding into the tight open bottomed girdle required more effort for both of them.   It was only when it came to the bra though that Marian started to get ahead a little, Marion struggled just a little more with the clasp, not having a life time of exercise with either bras or long nails like Marian did. The nylons only made Marian get ahead further as Marion struggled with the garter tabs. Not that she minded though, she was very eager to learn and she couldn’t count herself luckier as she got to learn from her mother in law and idol, matching her down to the underwear.   Marion didn’t even think about how strange it was for a guy in his mid twenties to get all dressed up as a mature woman. Instead he just adored the feeling of the slick and sensual fabrics feeling so much better than any of the clothes she had owned as Jason. Especially smoothing a pair of sheer nylons up her smooth legs felt simply divine. Much like her look she very much only thought of herself as Marian’s twin, a mature woman just like her mother in law. It simply made her feel so divine.   In the end Marion needed only about a minute longer to get fully dressed than Marian did, leaving only their faces and hair to take care off before they could truly start the day. “Alright Marion darling, why don’t you watch me closely as I do my hair and makeup. You can give it a try after I’m done so I can give you a few pointers.” Marian said, loving how she got to teach her son in law everything about how to look like a sophisticated mature lady. If only the old Jason could see himself now and react on it. The thought alone forced her to stifle a giggle as she took place at her vanity table.   Once seated Marian finally took her shower cap off entirely, gently took the rollers out of her hair before brushing it out, the perm making it fall perfect with relative ease. With her hair taken care off she turned to her face, applying her makeup with an ease that was the result of daily practice. Marian very much believed in always looking her best she didn’t have lounge wear for comfort just to laze around the house. She always got dressed up nicely, keeping her hair and makeup on fleek.   Like yesterday the look she went for was heavier than what most women considered everyday wear, but it fit perfectly with the rest of her high maintenance style. She opted for some yellow eyeshadow, a subtle touch of eyeliner, mascara, fire engine red lipstick and a good dose of blush. Done with her makeup Marian put on her necklace, her earrings, then finally finished everything with a few sprays of a heady lilac perfume, further enhancing the scent of their soap and body lotion. No matter where she went the strong scent would follow everywhere and linger for a while after.   “Alright Marion darling, why don’t you have a seat and try to recreate what I just did. No need to worry about getting it perfect darling, I am here to give some pointers and help where necessary.”  Marian spoke in her most gentle and helpful voice. As much as she loved the idea of what the old Jason would have thought about this, she did want to help Marion become the most authentic copy of herself as she possibly could. After all that was the best revenge she could have and hope for for her son in law. That and in contrast to Jason she adored Marion, she had quickly become a very close friend and the best company she could dream of. She had no trouble investing a lot of time and effort in her newest best friend and near twin.   With a few pointers from Marian, Marion managed to do her hair pretty much perfectly on her own. The perm made it fall into place with relative ease. The heavy makeup look however was a different story. By the time she had applied all the products as good as she possibly could she ended up looking like a complete clown. The heavy look really needed finesse in order not to look trashy or down right ridiculous. Having only ever tried putting on lipstick yesterday Marion didn’t have the skill required at all.   “Oh Marion darling, you did surprisingly well for a first try, I know it might not look like it, but don’t worry darling, I’ll fix you right up so you’ll look as divine as I do in no time.” Marian gushed as she dragged her son in law out to the bathroom where she made her run through her makeup removal ritual she had showed her yesterday. Then it was right back to the vanity where she did Marion’s makeup this time, making her look as close to hers as possible, although she couldn’t help going a little heavier on the blusher.   “There we go Marion darling, so much better, just like the classy lady you are. Now since you’ll be helping around with my chores I’m sure we’ll have plenty of time to practice this afternoon. Trust me darling, you’ll be having these techniques down in no time. In any case lets get started shall we darling? The sooner we finish the sooner we can work on makeup practice.” Marian gleefully spoke.   “Thank you Marian darling you did a divine job, I really can’t wait until I’m just as skilled with makeup as you are so I’m really looking forward to that practice darling. What’s the first chore on our list?” Marion asked, admiring her heavily made up face in the mirror. Her cock remained rock hard, she really did look a lot like her mother in law and she loved it.   “Well Marion darling, why don’t we start with some laundry? It’s Monday so I usually wash darks, go ahead and grab the dark clothes hamper darling, it’s in the bathroom cupboard.” Marian enthusiastically spoke as Marion didn’t hesitate even a moment as they made their way to the laundry room together Marian informed her about everything from how to operate the washing machine to how to separate laundry and what specific fabrics to look out for special care. Once they arrived Marian made Marion load the washing machine while she showed what buttons to push and what product to use like she had explained earlier.   “While the machine can take care of the bulk of the laundry there are also those items that are simply too delicate for the machine and need to be washed by hands like our undergarments Marion darling. Since it’s a chore that quickly builds up to an insurmountable amount I tend to take care of it on a daily basis, especially now that we’ll have twice the amount of delicate undergarments on our hands.” Marian smirked as she led Marion back to the bathroom where their discarded underwear from the night before was still piled up. It would be impossible for either of them to distinguish which garments belonged to whom as they were identical in every aspect. The only giveaway might be their scent, but even then they used so much strong smelling products that their natural scent was pretty much drained out.   While scent might have been one of the only factors to tell their lingerie apart after a days wear it wasn’t something either of them bothered with, they shared a wardrobe after all, they didn’t need to tell their clothes apart. Instead Marian instructed Marion on how to prepare the sink to hand wash their delicates and how to handle each garment. It was one chore she didn’t help with other than giving instructions as Marion did all the washing of both her own and her Mother in law’s undergarments.   Handling her mother in laws worn undergarments would have been a mortifying experience if it wasn’t for the fact that she was delighted knowing how to take care of her delicates just the way Marian did.  Unlike handling the washing machine, hand washing these delicates was a lot more time consuming, but eventually she had taken care of everything and hung up their girdles, panties, bras and stockings to dry.   Once she had been certain that Marion could handle their delicates Marian herself had gone back to the laundry room to iron out the laundry from Saturday which had dried by now. Normally washing her delicates and ironing took up enough time for the washer to finish, but now it was still in full swing as Marion came out to look for her, having done the hand laundering. It was an opportunity Marian took to teach Marion how to iron with the last few pieces that were left.   Laundry along with a tea break usually took up nearly the whole morning for Marian, now it was only mid morning and they were done with it already, or at least nearly done. It was the perfect opportunity for a little tea break which they spend preparing together and talking throughout. It was simply lovely.   With their break over Marian went straight over to the next chore, some cleaning. She had every room in the house down on a rotation, just like she had the types of laundry down on a rotation. It usually took a big chunk out of her afternoon, but with Marion’s help, both of them doing a room after she had showed her son in law the basics of dusting, vacuuming and mopping. They managed to get it done in their morning, stretching the Marian’s usual lunch time with about half an hour.   They had a most pleasant lunch together only to finish up the last chores of the day right after, the dishes from both breakfast and lunch, and hanging the laundry from the machine out to dry. It didn’t take mor than thirty minutes leaving them with a nearly completely free afternoon. It was something Marian hadn’t had in ages. The way she spread all her chores made the work rather relaxed, but it did leave her busy pretty much all day long. With Marion’s eager and great help her work load and time got significantly cut down, something which was only going to improve even further once Marion got the hang of all chores. All this extra time would be amazing, especially with a friend always around to spend it with. For now they could use that extra time really well to get Marion some make up practice. Something they got to straight after hanging the laundry to dry.   It took up a big chunk of their afternoon and a load of makeup, but Marian didn’t mind at all, she loved teaching Marion how to apply her makeup. It was great entertainment. They spent about two and a half hours constantly letting Marion rinse of her makeup and reapply it while Marian gave pointers and tips. In those two and half hours Marion made some real big improvements, but it still was at the same level as Marian’s by a long shot, so at the end Marian reapplied it again for her son in law as they went back down for their afternoon tea.   Another delightful tea time and chat later Marian and Marion sat down on the couch to watch Marian’s favourite soap opera. It was a terribly boring and overly dramatic show in Marion’s eyes, but she was very attentive to the remarks Marian made about certain characters, and scenes that triggered her. Normally Marian wasn’t as vocal, unless she was discussing things with her friends, but having someone to watch with made it nice to comment right in the moment. Especially with Marion mimicking her emotion and agreeing with her statements and observations in full.   By the time the show was over it was about time for Robert to return home from work so Marian with Marion in tow headed to the kitchen to get started on dinner. Marian was always very adamant about only letting fresh home cooked meals on her table and she was an excellent cook, a skill like all other household skills she was happy to educate her now twin Marion in.   Both of them were busily cooking, wearing a frilly plum apron each when Robert arrived. The sight of the twin luscious behinds in their yellow pencil skirts as he had a hard time telling which of the two belonged to his real wife, didn’t fail to amaze Robert and turn him on big time. “Good evening Honey.” Robert said as he hugged Marian from behind, planting a soft kiss on her cheek, grateful that he could still tell his wife apart upon closer inspection.   Nevertheless he soon went ahead and gave Marion the same greeting, not wanting her to feel left out. Just like Marian he wanted Marion to feel welcome and most of all make her want to stay. He still thought it was wrong, but having two wives and a happier more excited real wife at that was just something he didn’t want to miss ever again. He had hoped Marion would still be here when he got back home and he was glad she was. Robert realised that all this would probably end when Sarah came back home, but it was all the more reason to enjoy it to the fullest while it lasted, and hope that Marion would enjoy it enough to return when Sarah had another trip with friends or a business trip.   “Good evening dear, how was your day at work?” Both women asked nearly in sync as they looked back at him in the exact same way. There were really creepily identical, but so hot as well. Shrugging his awe off, Robert started talking about his day at work which had been like most others, telling his wife about some of his colleagues and minor things that had happened, venting some frustration, but nothing major as his wives just nodded and listened.   Eventually Robert was done rambling about his day when Marian turned to her feminised son in law. “Marion darling, I think I have it under control here, it’s just watching some pots and pans from here on out really. Why don’t you go to our dear Robert and see if you can help him destress a little before dinner?” She asked with an all saying wink as she returned to her pots and pans.   Marion didn’t need to be told twice. Given how much Marian loved her husband’s cock she felt honoured that her mother in law nearly always allowed her to do the honours. It was an opportunity she wouldn’t waste as she tried to get herself to love her father in law’s cock just as much. “Sure thing Marian darling, it’ll be my pleasure.” Marion smiled as she turned towards Robert.   Her smile only grew as she saw the big tent in the front of his pants, trying to make this as good as possible for her father in law, she eyed his rock hard member lewdly while biting her bottom lip. “Oh my Robert dear, you are all hard! Why don’t you let me take care of that for you dear? There’s nothing better than a blowjob to help you relax, wouldn’t you agree dear?” She asked, playfully placing one of his bulge and sinking down to her knees without really waiting for a response.   Robert was perplexed, he loved his wife and she was the best woman he could imagine. Only when it came to sex he had sometimes wished she was a little slutier. The fact that Marion was even slutier than what he had dared dream of made her the perfect complimentary twin for his wife. Together they were all he ever wanted and so much more. Down on her knees looking as great as she did the fact that Marion was his son in law hardly mattered anymore. He just gave a slight nod although he suspected that wasn’t even necessary.   Without real hesitation Marion opened his pants and fished his cock out. Precum was already leaking from the raging hard purple head, the smell of musk and sweat after a long day at work was rather strong, but even though it bothered Marion, she didn’t let it show. She wanted to love it like she thought Marian did and so she quickly wrapped her plump painted lips around the head of her father in law’s cock and swallowed as much of his cock as she could managed, further practicing her techniques as she sucked for all she was worth.   Marian was just dividing food between their three plates when Robert couldn’t hold it out any longer. Marion’s eager blowing was something he couldn’t get enough of. The sensation was just so great and he tried to enjoy it as long as he could, but eventually all the pleasure the entire situation brought him was too much to handle. “I’m going to cum Marion honey!” He exclaimed as he felt her rise all the way to the tip of his cock only to keep his head between her lips and flick it with her tongue until he finally tipped over the edge and filled her mouth with his cum in a most amazing orgasm.   To Marion it remained just as disgusting as it had been before, having a mouthful of her father in law’s cum, tasting his seed, feeling the warm spunk. It was gross, but she wanted to savour it to the max, just like she imagined Marian who she thought loved it would. After being sure her father in law had completely emptied his balls in her mouth she pulled off. It was followed by a quick delighted swallow without complain, as she instead kissed the tip of his cock. “Thank you Robert dear, that was delicious. She said then helped his cock back in his pants, got up and joined her very pleased and satisfied looking in-laws at the table.   Marion politely waited for them to start eating before she did as she really didn’t want to seem like she wanted to get rid of the strong cum taste in her mouth. She did want to get rid of it, but until she could share this similarity with Marian she wanted to fake loving it as much as possible. She just wanted to get along with her the best she could which meant finding as many similarities as she possibly could.   When they eventually started dinner past by rather uneventfully. The food was delicious, and the three off them chatted a bit. It was very nice Marion loved how she was treated like a second wife by her father in law, how she was so welcomed by them both. She really wished she never had to leave her in-laws again. Life was simpler here, no huge responsibilities and her idol Marian to fall back on and take an example from for the responsibilities she did have. Oh she loved being around Marian so much.   By the time they were all done eating Marian got up with Marion instantly following suit, helping her clear the table and do the dishes. She was about done washing everything while Marian rinsed the plates when Robert spoke up. “Marion honey, I was wondering if maybe you would like to help me out again? The two of you just look so absolutely gorgeous together.” He was a little hesitant, but their thick ass, luscious nylon covered legs and near identical permed hair just looked so wonderful from behind. He hadn’t been able to pull his eyes away from them which has inevitably made him grow hard once more.   Robert didn’t know he still has it in him to get this many erections at his age, but a second wife had revitalised him big time. It was still surreal and he didn’t know if he could ask for such a thing, but he could try right? The idea of getting a blowjob on demand was just heaven. “If you want to you can go ahead Marion darling, it’s just some drying that is left really, I can handle myself.” Marian gave her blessing with a smile, loving how her husband was starting to relax and grow at ease with Marion.   Marion for her part was ecstatic that he was comfortable enough to ask. Marian had never seemed to have a problem with her, being completely at ease around her, but Robert warming up to her really solidified her position and her stay here. She wanted nothing but for him to grow as comfortable around her as around his own wife. “Sure Robert dear, I’ll be right there.” Marion said with a smile as she took off her rubber gloves she used to protect her hands during the dishes and walked right over to where her father in law was sitting.   She wasn’t too happy about getting the taste of cock back in her mouth after only just getting rid of it with dinner, but she didn’t show it. Maybe it was even a good thing so she could grow to love it faster. Or at least that was how Marion reasoned as she quickly and eagerly sunk down on her knees and fished her father in law’s cock out of his pants only to take it between her lips nearly instantly.   Since he had came already it took Marion a lot longer to make him cum again. She been bobbing her head up and down his cock for a good 10 minutes, Marian had already gotten seated again having dried and put away the dishes. When Robert finally came again, filling her mouth with the strong taste of cum rather than the after taste of her delicious dinner. Nevertheless Marion once again pulled off with a big smile, swallowing every last drip of his load before kissing the tip of his cock. “Thank you Robert dear, that was divine.” She gleefully spoke, putting his cock back in his pants and getting back up.   Marian meanwhile was touching up her lipstick that had slightly smudged while eating, wielding a simple tube of her favourite red colour and a compact mirror. She threw Marion a big smile as she emerged from sucking her husband off for the third time today alone. “Such a delightful cock isn’t it Marion darling? Here, I believe you can use a touch up yourself.” Marian offered as she handed over her compact mirror and lipstick.   “Thank you Marian darling, considering the rings I left at the base of our dear Robert’s cock, I’m sure I can.” Marion giggled as she tried to emulated how Marian had used the lipstick and mirror as well as she possibly could. The end result, wasn’t perfect, but close enough, especially for an evening in. All Marion’s makeup training had at least given her the tools to decently touch up her own makeup as long as the basics were taken care of.   “You did divine Marion darling, now how about we watch a movie before bed?” Marian offered as the three of them got up and moved into the living room. Like yesterday both Marion and Marian cuddle up at a side of Robert as he put on a movie for them to watch before wrapping an arm around both his wives. Back before Marian had given Jason this tape he had gotten along rather well with his father in law, but he wouldn’t have ever thought he would give him as much as a hug really. The thought would just have been weird. Robert wasn’t attractive to him, and he was more than twice his age. Yet now as Marion he was happy to share in the love of his idol Marian as well. Robert’s attention, even getting to suck his cock was so validating now to the point that she craved it more than relieving her own constant erection.   Despite her persistent dislike for the taste of cum or cock, she found herself longing for Robert’s cock and affection way more than sex with her wife. After all she was out of sight, and with all the new things she got bombarded with, Marian being the only constant on her mind as she tried to be as much like her as possible, her wife was out of her mind as well. She simply didn’t have the time or space left to think about her which slowly alienated her from her wife without even realising it.   Somewhere down the line with the movie about three quarters of the way through, Robert’s cock rose once more. With how well it had worked last time there was even less hesitant on his part to ask his second wife to take care of him. “Marion Honey, could you please help me out again? That mouth of yours feels so very good around my cock.” He spoke as he took one of her hands to rest it on his cock so she could feel it.   “Oh of course Robert dear, it would be my pleasure.” Marion instantly replied as she got down on her knees and right to work sucking his cock. The taste of his last load had not even faded yet as Marion looked up at her in laws who smiled down on her with delight.   “Thank you very much honey, you are doing a lovely job.” Robert proudly beamed as he gave his real wife a kiss. The more comfortable he was growing the more he wanted to make most out of this amazing opportunity beyond his wildest dream. The last time he had came this much and had as much erections in a day was probably when he was about Jason’s age, but the presence of two amazing wives was just stimulating beyond believe.   Both of their attention was on Marion for about the first five minutes, but eventually Robert and Marian went back to watching the movie, both of them smiling down on Marion occasionally. Telling her what a great job she was doing as Marion was happy to get to enjoy an activity she firmly believed her mother in law loved so much. With his attention not only on Marion and the pleasure she was providing, but also on the movie along with the fact that he had came twice already, Robert lasted for a very long time. It took nearly thirty minutes, thirty minutes of non stop cock sucking from Marion for him to cum, and fill her mouth with his sperm yet again.   By the time Marion pulled off with a bright smile on her face, swallowing and thanking him with a kiss to the head of his cock, the end credits were rolling up the screen. “You’re one lucky woman Marion darling, getting to go down on our dear Robert’s cock for so long. I have to admit I’m a bit jealous. I can’t wait for a turn of my own so why don’t we take this up to the bedroom?” Marian asked with a smile, further fuelling Marion’s desire to want to suck off Robert as much as she could. The sight had once again gotten her so hot that she wanted nothing more than a good cock to ride on.   As the trio made their way up to the bedroom there was only one problem, having just came Robert wasn’t hard anymore, and while it was outrageously hot to see both of his wives strip down to their lingerie in front of him, it was not enough to get him hard right away. “Oh my Marion darling it looks like you sucked all the stamina out of our dear Robert’s cock, leaving nothing for me. Since you already got more than your fair share I think it’s only fair that you get him hard for me again don’t you darling. I’m sure some ball teasing and suckling will do the trick.” Marian exclaimed, getting even wetter at the thought of her son in law fluffing the cock for her to ride.   “Oh no you are right Marian darling, my sincerest apologies, let me see if I can fix it for you.” Marion said, feeling a little ashamed that she had been so selfish and denied her idol her pleasure. She was bound on fixing it no matter what it took, so after basically only taking a break to climb the stairs and strip, she once again found herself down on her knees in front of her father in law. She was half naked herself, her curves and delicate lingerie on full display as she moved in between the legs of her naked father in law sitting down on the edge of the bed. Without hesitation she started sucking on his limp cock, and occasionally his wrinkly hairy balls, swirling with her tongue for all she was worth. It was way worse than sucking his hard cock, but she was happy to get so up close and personal with Robert’s cock once more, especially to give her idol the pleasure she deserved for all she had done for her, teaching her how to be just like her.   Using both her mouth and perfectly manicured hands, she massaged her father in law’s limp cock and balls for all she was worth while Marian did her part by intimately making out with him. With their intense team effort Robert eventually despite already having had three orgasms, became hard all over again. It had taken a good fifteen minutes, but finally Marion had managed to get Robert hard again for her mother in law.   “Thank you Marion darling, why don’t you continue giving our dear Robert’s Balls some attention while we fuck? I’m sure he’ll think it’s divine, I would certainly love to see it.” Marian directed as Robert lay back on the back without any objections. He loved everything about this and more. Having two gorgeous twin like women fight for his cock was amazing beyond his wildest dreams. Not that they really fought, but still, his wife was very eager to slide out of her panties and slide her sopping wet pussy onto his rock hard shaft in reverse cow girl while Marion instantly moved in between his legs and started licking and sucking his balls.   The texture of Robert’s unshaven balls in her mouth was weird and off putting, but looking up at her mother in law clad in only her lingerie minus her panties was hot. The way she bobbed up and down on the cock she had sucked so many times today was mesmerising as Marion mourned the one thing she would never have in common, a pussy to really fuck Robert. Then again her current position was as involved as it could possibly get, Marian’s pubic bush was rubbing up and down her nose whenever she sunk all the way down to the base of Robert’s cock and up again. Her nose providing even more stimulation while Marion was rewarded with her idols juices streaming down on the balls she was sucking, allowing her to taste her mother in law through out their fuck.   Marian and Robert ended up going on for another thirty minutes until Robert had his fourth orgasm, and was really too spent to continue. Marian for her part had had plenty of orgasms, all of which were sucked off of Robert’s balls by Marion who swallowed more than a couple of mouth’s full of her mother in law’s juices, before she finally got off letting Marion suck Robert’s cock clean as well.   Just like yesterday, the near twin duo then headed into the bathroom where Marion was once again on cleaning duty. She dutifully and eagerly lapped her father in law’s cum out of her mother in law’s pussy before licking her idol to one last orgasm of her own, all the while going ignored herself. Once she was done with her cleaning duties both women went over their evening rituals as usual, stripping out of their lingerie, removing their makeup, putting their permed hair in rollers, putting on their night cap and finishing everything off with their green night time mask. All ready for bed they slid in the bed next to Robert, completely naked as they all drifted off to sleep feeling even better than they had the day before.   Chapter 8   On Tuesday and every day there after pretty much the same routine played out. Marion started her day with a blowjob, before they headed down to prepare breakfast after which they got dressed and ready for their day. A day that mainly consisted of chores, tea breaks, makeup practices and a soap opera, before it was back to preparing diner, more cock sucking, a movie, and always sex before bedtime between her in laws. The only exceptions to the routine were their workouts on Tuesday and Thursday, using an old DVD Marian had used for age to conduct her workout with. That and the occasional relistens of that CD she had made for Jason she tasked Marion with just to be sure. They had the time anyways now that Marion knew how to do the chores, splitting the work without needing to explain anything.   For an entire week Marion spent all her time 24/24 day after day with her mother in law, perfecting her voice, vocabulary and mannerism. Even if she would call her wife right now Sarah would think she was talking to her own mother. From the back the only things setting them apart was Marion’s slightly richer blonde hair and her slightly more muscular legs. Without a reference however even Marian’s closest friends would think they were seeing Marian instead of Marion.   Even on an emotional front they were matching, often jinxing one another as they were so in sync by spending so much time together that they often thought and said the same things. A change that was most obvious when watching those soap opera’s Marian so loved. Marion occasionally made comments about certain scene’s and characters that she had been thinking of commenting on at the same time.   Marion also had the way in which Marian did each chore down to a T just like the makeup which by now was applied as flawless and efficient as Marian herself did it. Aside from the bulge and slightly more masculine facial features the only way in which Robert was able to tell his wives apart was by their skills in the bedroom. There was no way Marian could match Marion’s blowjob skills with all the practice Marion had put in this week, sucking his cock three to even five times a day. She was the far superior cock sucker, not that Marian cared. She had as much sex as she desired and so did her husband, their sex life had become so much more active and Marion took care of all the things she was a little reluctant about.   Marian had kind of neglected her friendships a little during this intense week, but the near carbon copy result she had achieved with her son in law made it all so very worth it. With the arrival of Saturday it was time for the true test and goal of her plan, getting her daughter to finally ditch her husband, giving her her life back so she could find a husband Marian thought she deserved. A husband that could take good care of her.   It might be meddlesome on her part as it wasn’t her choice to make like her husband had often pointed out, but she couldn’t help but want the best for her girl. That and she had given Sarah exactly what she had asked for, she did get along better with her husband, in fact she had never gotten along better with anyone in her life before. It probably wasn’t what Sarah had meant, but oh well then she should have been more specific.   The opposite was also true, Marion would probably be better off with someone to take care of her to. Her dream chasing that was her music career basically testified that she needed someone to provide for her, and Marian was convinced that Robert would be more than willing to do just that. He had really come to treat Marion just like he did her, kissing her, greeting her, and giving playful pats and gropes without second thought. He had become completely comfortable around Marion as long as her naked erection wasn’t in view. She could tell when they left home this morning that he didn’t want her to go like he thought she would now that Sarah was coming back home.   If Marian had her way Marion would be coming back home with her again tonight and she was sure that Robert wouldn’t protest if she stayed with them indefinitely. With how Marion longed to be with her at all times, and with how she was nearly certain that Sarah wouldn’t want to live and sleep with what was basically her own mother, her feminised husband that had sucked her father’s cock just a few hours prior. The thought that Marion would be coming back with her was plausible. They wouldn’t even need to move much if anything as Marion had all she needed over at their place.   Of course the big question remained how they would react to one another. Even if Marion snapped out of it, there were so many ingrained behaviours and some longer lasting physical changes that Marian doubted she could just go back to being Jason. It was a question she would soon have an answer to though as she and Marion stepped back into the salon that had started it all.   Everyone gawked at them in disbelieve as they hadn’t seen Marion since she had left in her sweat suit last Sunday. Her face and hair were pretty much the same, but the matching plum outfit like Marian had worn last week really completed the picture and made her curves pop so much better than before. Especially combined with the way she walked and talked so much more elegantly, really showing off what she got just like Marian herself always did.   All ladies present were very eager to get a good look at Marion for their weekly gossip as Jane quickly went to work washing their hair, touching up Marion’s barely visible with how short they still were dark brown roots, just like she did Marian’s salt and pepper ones. A quick refresher of their mani pedi and a refresher of their perm later, they walked out and headed straight for Marion’s house. Marian didn’t take much time to gossip or chat, making her morning at the salon like she usually did. It simply wasn’t a social visit like usual, this was all about getting Marion perfect for to welcome her daughter back from her travels.   The social visits and her meet up with friends could wait till next week where she would get to catch up with them hopefully alongside Marion, but all that rode on what would happen in the next few hours.   Arriving over at Marion’s house she shared with her daughter Marian went into the kitchen right away. There she and Marion went to work making a fresh batch of chocolate chip cookies, Sarah’s favourite. While enthusiastically chatting throughout the process. When finished with the cookie batter, Marion and Marian went straight to doing chores like a well oiled machine, tidying the house up a little, making the bed with clean sheets, as much as they could get done in the approximate two hours they had until Sarah would arrive home.   Then finally when the time was nearly there they made some tea to go with the cookies that had by now had a chance to cool down to being nice and crisp. Just as they were finishing up with their tea, they both heard the sound of the garage opening, their cue that Sarah had come home. Marian and Marion instantly dropped what they were doing to go out and greet Sarah. Arm in arm wearing big smiles on their faces they walked out to the garage door, waiting for her to emerge.   (This story was inspired by the drawing Mirror in Law by DovSherman:  https://www.deviantart.com/dovsherman/art/Mirror-in-Law-874676998 It is what I imagine came before the scene in the drawing. So if you want to know how the daughter I named Sarah for the sake of the story reacts, make sure to check this drawing out.)   (If you liked this story and would like to read way more stories like it then please check out my page on SubscribeStar: https://subscribestar.adult/fibaro I have ran into trouble with Patreon, but since SubscribeStar  doesn’t accept PayPall you can still follow me there, just make sure you connect your discord account to your Patreon account if you do so you don’t miss out on my content. https://www.patreon.com/Fibaro )  

LifeContinuesOn Since people were interested here's the prologue to A Vampire's Magical Experiments. It's one of the actual good things I've written so felt it was a shame to keep it in my drafts. The language of animals are indeed complex, but it all boils down to getting a point across and back. As such emotion, intent, and intonation are required alongside a healthy dose of  magic. Non-verbal communication is also a success, sadly more elaborate emotions are often not conveyed in a interpretable state. As an example both pleasure can be interpreted as excitement, while pain and anger greatly coincide and vies versa. More of the language itself has died as less and less people practiced it, as smarter magical creatures instead switched to human tongue to get their point across. The language itself was to communicate with the eyes, intonating the original animals speech, such as squeaks, caws, and hissing alongside a magic connection. Using human language to converse would also work to a much lesser degree, garnering suspicion upon the speaker, enabling inaccurate translation. While I myself (and my assistant) are still fluent and have increased the range of species to include magical creatures, only three types of "speakers" are still prevalent, with two of them fading into obscurity and one being ostracized. As such I believe that while it is a teachable language, no one will want to learn it for another 100 years until it's infamy disperses allowing the gift to be re-studied.  "Hey, Hey, Master Tailor, whatcha writing?" A pale woman floated over, who appeared to be taken straight out of a black and white photo. she looked over the man scribbling in a book.  "Not now Jane, I'm working on my final volume of the Study of Animal Speakers." He spoke up, without looking away.  "Yeah, but why are you writing these books anyway? I've already died so it's not like I'll use them." The man this time did look, his sharp yellow eyes glaring.  "I could sell them to one of those new 'wizarding schools' They'd scramble for my knowledge." He spoke sarcastically.  "That's a lie. They'd classify your work as 'dark magic', not to mention you don't have the proper identity anymore. You've got no credit."  "Oh shut it Jane," He said offhandedly while muttering, "I don't know why I made you in the first place." under his breath. Though Jane had heard him anyway.  "You made me so I could stop you from doing what you are now, wasting away writing books. Why don't you get another apprentice or at least a new friend?" Jane appeared to be exasperated. "Ha! Like someone could see past the field again, you were rare and I'm not going out of my way to find another," with a mutter "Especially with what I did to you." He looked away.  "It wasn't your fault! So stop blaming yourself for it. I've forgiven you decades ago, so stop moping around about it."  The conversation ran in circles and it was evident it wasn't the first time. While cottage was decrepit it still held up like it was invincible, papers scattered around the room with scribbles and formulas.  A man and a woman yelling at each other in exasperation over the things they did in the past. Candlelight flickering although no one noticed. WhoooshThe candle went out, but the people kept shouting. As if the dark and cold hadn't affected them in the slightest. "So your going to make me do it huh?! The final straw William! If you don't stop complaining I'll do it!" Jane yelled her form flickering like waning moonlight. "Oh like you'd do it! You'd be begging me to come back, Regretting that decision! Go ahead, I dare you!" His eyes becoming a glowing red in anger. Jane knew he didn't mean it but this time she was prepared to go through with it, to end the constant bickering. It would finally push him to change but she would've chosen another way if given the chance. It had to be though, as it was obvious he was stagnating. His temper was on an all time high, and he was eating the bare minimum he needed to stay conscious. Then they would argue, yell get tired, and repeat again month after month after month.  Jane knew that he was to dependent of her, to much so to go out and make new friends, take new apprentices, a new love. But she was dead, and while he only had a half life he deserved more. She turned around and hit the button inside her portrait. He, William, Looked shocked she actually did it, and in a bright flash and a noisy pop, he was sitting on the ground, Suitcase in hand in the middle of the forest.  "Shit."

Has anyone ever told you? "Never question yourself and follow your gut feeling." I tried to stick by this. I never wanted to be or even feel different. Not today or any day as a matter of fact. It wasn't my choice. I hate it when people stare and question me either verbally or mentally- but you see it on their face. Those looks of disgust and uncertainty and if you're lucky, just plain curiosity. The small words that felt like knives digging at your conscience: "You should dress like a lady" "Are you a boy" "Oh you look like your mum" " Excuse me girl/boy..." They hurt- they hurt so much and I don't even know why.  When I look in the mirror- I see those c-cups and that tiny waist that your aunt told you was snatched and that I should be "grateful" for it. Or your small figure that instantly made you a model. But then there's always the broad masculine shoulders- or the bushy eyebrows that should always be trimmed. And the acne, dark spots and hyperpigmentation that your mum tells you to cover with a little bit of foundation or concealer. They are all flaws- some may love them... but I don't. I don't want people to look at me and see them. I want to hide my boobs and keep them covered, because I know that boy you were friends with is going to want to touch them or that man who you walk past on the street is going to smirk at you and whisper under his breath "you look nice babes" But no matter your age- you're blamed for it. Don't dress like a slut or wear revealing clothes they say "you'll attract the wrong attention". But aunty, weren't you just telling me how much I should love my body and embrace it- but when I wear my hoodies or baggy clothes, bandage my boobs with cloth or sports bra since you won't buy we a binder and feel comfortable like I'm a knight wearing my armour you question me: "Are you gay?" "Why would you want to dress like that" "You're a lesbian. right?" "Why are you so self-conscious?"  All of this makes me question myself. I like being a girl- but I hate being a girl and no longer want to be identified as a girl- in hope that I can be treated like a boy. But boys all grow into men, and from what I've been raised up to know is that not all men are good... There are more bad than good. They are the same people who will "tek yuh away an rape yuh" my mum says in patois warning me before I go to a park a street away from my house.  However, you still want me to marry a man- someone who was born as a man. Someone who’s stereotypically male, who has money power and dominance in the relationship. Not someone who is male- but actually has a fashion sense and will dress up in pink and wear a little bit of makeup just to gain that little bit of confidence before they go out the same way you and I would- just because you think they might be "fruity" or "gay". All of this makes me question myself. It makes me slightly hate myself even more.

Announcement yo, author of Broken Hero and soon to be author of Reforged Villain, The Immortal Emperor, and maybe some others, who knows? certainly not me thats for damn sure. anyway, this series is here to let me vent, ramble, and just idly write. i guess in irl terms this would function as a journal. hopefully this series will help others discover a little about things. idk lmao im rambling now. onto the real thing i suppose. oh yeah, dont expect consistant word counts, i try to manage 2k for Broken Hero but here is just a...thing? idk how to describe it {That which is not dead may eternal lie, and with strange aeons even death my die} this is a quote attributed to Howard Phillip Lovecraft, author of Call of Cthulhu, Shadow Over Innsmouth, The Dunwich Horror, The Mountains of Madness, and the other books which became the spinal cord of the Cthulhu Mythos. This is a quote I have thought of a lot, and I seem to have come to this conclusion: I will never reach a conclusion. When i tried to come up with one all i could do is find ways to colorfully reword it. I really dont know where i was going with this, but for some reason i decided to type it Niccolo Machiavelli, a rather famous...political theorist? i believe that is the term. anyway, he had three very interesting quotes in his controversial manuscript "The Prince" regarding Love and Fear, they are {And here comes in the question whether it is better to be loved rather than feared, or feared rather than loved. It might perhaps be answered that we should wish to be both; but since love and fear can hardly exist together, if we must choose between them, it is far safer to be feared than loved.} {Since love and fear can hardly exist together, if we must choose between them, it is far safer to be feared than loved} {it is much safer to be feared than loved because ...love is preserved by the link of obligation which, owing to the baseness of men, is broken at every opportunity for their advantage; but fear preserves you by a dread of punishment which never fails.} Now, after reading this, i believe it is very evident why he was a very controversial character, after all, he has repeatedly stated that being feared is objectively better than being loved, and if we look throughout history, that has proven itself over and over and over. In Nazi Germany people were turning in loved ones, neighbors, and other people who they "loved", because they feared the gestapo and the power of the NSDAP. Look at Soviet Russia, the exact same thing happened over there, the only differences being effective length of time and the names. Same thing with Mao Zedong's china, and its still happening today. These are only the more modern examples, but uncountable similarities can be found in the middle ages, primitive ages, and even the industrial revolution era. Objectively and logically speaking, being feared is always better than being loved, but, we, as as a species, refuse to acknowledge this because of two things, emotions, and morals.  The emotional side of humans want to be loved, no one wants to be feared except the more...mentally unstable members of society. we know that because being loved is a positive, happy, fuzzy feeling, and being feared is a path of loneliness, sadness, and hate. However, what if there was an individual, who, for as long as he could remember, could not feel the warmth of love from his parents, his peers, and others around him? He treaded the path of loneliness, sadness, and hate without even desiring to be feared. and then one day, he did find someone from whom he could feel love, and that someone consummated, and furthered their love, and eventually wouldve had a child. but then, one day, he found out the child would become stillborn because of the loved ones drug usage, and the loved one killed themselves the same day? The one source of love that this man could feel, had passed. and not peacefully, it was violently ripped away like a hurricane. He now knew what love felt like, and he retreated back to his path of loneliness, but now, he knew what was missing, and it hurt that much more. This man, who now scorned both the world and God himself, would he learn to love again, and cast aside this lonely path? or would he continue down this path, more steadfast in it, recognizing that his desire was to see the world feel the same suffering he did, and cast God down from the heavens? Maybe one day, he would learn to love, but for now, this man follows the path of self destruction. He has his one desire, to burn the world to ashes and cause wanton terror and suffering, and currently is willing to cast aside even his life to achieve his ambition, for his life is the one thing he has left. 18, homeless, jobless, highschool dropout, dirt under his nails and covering his skin so much they change his skin tone. he sleeps under a bridge during the day, and at night he comes to a local homeless shelter to write his books, watch anime, read books and manga, watch youtube, eat, and other things. Everyday is a struggle. He cant sleep without the help of alcohol, he cant socialize with anyone while sober because his true personality would slip out and cause trouble. taking an acid tab every single day just so he can appear and socialize like a normal human being. he doesnt know how to cook, pay taxes, get legal documentation, get to doctors, or anything. Everytime he sees someone holding hands or kissing he gets envious, everytime he sees a mother holding her child he gets jealous, everytime he sees people able to just get on with their lives like they have no troubles he gets angry, everytime he sees someone who is better off than him he gets filled with hate. his life is filled with hate, pain, and sadness. he who once knew love no longer knows how to function without it, and has reverted to his old ways, but is even more full of negativity. He has long since lost his motivation, he has to force himself to eat once a day so he at least doesnt starve, for he does not have motivation to eat. he only showers when it is unbearable for he doesnt have the will to clean. as much as he has these ambitions of making others suffer, he has no motivation to even keep on living. the only thing he has motivation for is to keep himself occupied, because when hes not, the voices get louder, and his mind tears itself apart, viscerally, limb from limb. screams that were once whispers ring in his head, no one hearing it but him. over a dozen disembodied eerie screams are heard, demanding to kill, rape, steal, burn, mutilate, bite, claw, rip, tear, shatter, and break. he sits at a computer in the shelter, writing a chapter on a website designed to help authors put their work out there. he has one other book hes been writing, but no matter how much he tries he just cant think of a way to progress the story, and hes written draft after draft after draft to no avail. hes been awake since 3pm, sleeping for 15 hours because the day before he was awake for 30 odd hours, and now its 8 Am. hes tired, but his body wont let him sleep. he had the idea to write a soliloquy while reading "The Kings Avatar" webnovel after reading the word and remembering its meaning while listening to a song called Alone, by Dethtech. After reading the volume of How A Realist Hero Rebuilt A Kingdom where the MC married everyone, he got super depressed and decided on writing, but alas at the time the internet was out and couldnt read it. he left to try to go to sleep under the bridge while reading The Kings Avatar but couldnt. He after a while he thought if he watched some hentai and jacked off he could fall asleep then, but the tent he was in was too hot so after doing the business he left and came to the shelter. hes currently writing the soliloquy still listening to Alone and wondering why the fuck he's even writing this.   perhaps one day he will know, but for now, he is tired of writing, so he will sign off, and figure out something to do in the meantime. Maybe Machinelord will have a new chapter up and he could read it. he will soon find out.

 For anyone that may see this, thanks for reading. I'm just here to see if a story can spill out of my mind if just start writing so here goes nothing.  Hello there, I seem to be in an odd situation. Misfortune has raised its taxes and the metaphorical IRS is here to reap the benefits. Fatigue has defeated me, queasiness has taken control of my mind, and my legs simply don't want to work. I was just happily reading a Naruto fan-fic that put out chapters every week, but weirdly, a second chapter was posted. So, I happily clicked the next chapter button that I had bookmarked.    I neglected to read the title, which was my first mistake admittedly, and it simply read, "I'm Sorry." The authors note that's usually there is nowhere to be found which is odd since there is always a note before every chapter. There was only a single sentence, "I can no longer write this story, thank you for all the support. Goodbye."     That was it, nothing else. No fanfare, no lengthy explanation, no excuses; it was simply gone. What I am currently feeling is something hard to describe. There is the sadness of course, but it is mostly just emptiness. The weekly chapters from my favorite author are gone and won't come back.    This is it. This is my 13th reason. It's time to enact order 69.    Leaving my computer chair, I walk out of my bedroom door to an empty house and to my kitchen. The sight of unfinished construction on the walls and floor greet me. It was stupid of me to buy a so called "fixer-upper" house, but what else am I supposed to do when good housing is almost impossible to find? In the kitchen, I make my way to my refrigerator, and open the door to it's empty shelves that I never bother to stock. Instead, there is a large selection of weapons. From knives to handguns to rifles, it was quite the impressive collection. Why is it in the refrigerator you might ask? Simple, why not?    I scan the array of well used but clean weapons, and find my favorite handgun. It was an outrageously large gun that really shouldn't be held in one hand. It was a modified shiny chrome desert eagle that shot 50 caliber bullets. Stupid right? Yes, yes it is. Nevertheless, I take the gun from it's bulging holster, and grasp the thick, bulging handle of the "pistol." I slightly struggle to pick it up in one hand due to the long barrel, my wrist straining under it's weight.    "Well, it wasn't fun while it lasted, and I hope and pray to not be reincarnated." I say in a deep, gruff, and dehydrated voice.    I put the barrel up to the under side of my chin. I feel the cold, deadly metal on my skin and get a rush of adrenalin in anticipation for the next step.    "At least the walls will be painted now. Hahahahah!" I say as I pull the trigger.    **BOOOOOOM**   Fin- ending music plays   Cliché ensues   A man with dark brown hair and similarly colored eyes awakens from his slumber. He looks around in confusion and disappointment. The "room" is completely dark, and the only light he can see is a few feet away from him. It was a very old computer that made a lot of noise while it was "thinking." The man walked up to the computer with a depressed expression on his face.    "Haaaaa, the reincarnation trope, yaaaaaaaay," he said in the most monotone voice possible.  He sat down in the hard and damp chair by the computer. On the rounded, glass screen, there was a list of weird names that all had the word "system" in it.     [God Slayer System] [Doom Guy System] [Porn System: Might Guy and Hatake Kakashi] [Edgy Protagonist System] [The stupid system that holds your hand throughout the entire story and allows for no character growth whatsoever: System] ...etc   The list continued for what seemed to be forever with infinite numbers of names and combinations. He had nothing else to do so he sat there and read through all of them. None of them seemed appealing as he didn't want to be alive, to begin with. However, the only other application on the computer was Valorant, so he decided that reading through an unlimited number of system names was the better alternative.   There were a few systems that tempted him:  [Therapy System: for the depressed and lonely] [Well-written Web-novel system]  [Infinite-Troll-Works System]   He decided that none of them were worth living another life for. Even when promised infinite power, none of it was worth the suffering that comes with his everyday life. Finally, he made it to the end of the list and finally found a system that fit him perfectly.    [Eternal Slumber System]    He hesitated. What would happen if he clicked on it? Would he be able to rest eternally as the name implied or would he have to end his life for a second time? Since he refused to play Valorant and had nothing else to lose...He clicked on it.    [Eternal Slumber System]: For those who wish to rest. :) Is this your final choice?  YES or NO   The smiley face made him paranoid, but he didn't have anything to lose. He clicked the yes button with more resolve than it took to delete his hentai collection.    Thank you for choosing: [Eternal Slumber System]. We look forward to seeing you again! (or not lol)   He was seriously starting to believe he was in a gag novel. He thought as his "soul?" was sucked into a portal. (I just finished a good Naruto fan-fic, so that's all that's coming to mind right now. That's what we are stuck with I guess?) *Oak & Ash & Thorn starts playing*    'What the hell? Why am I awake and why the hell is this song?'    I check the surroundings, only to find that I am in some sort of dark sewer in ankle-deep water. Great, my socks, among other things, are all wet. What a great day today is. This place seems oddly familiar...hmmm. Oh well, I have nothing else to do, might as well take a look around.    I get up from what I hope is clean water and take my first steps. I look down and notice that my steps are oddly short and my swinging stubby arms by my side.    "The cliché continues I suppose?" I say in annoyance. 

Chapter 1: In Another World With A Building System. After slowly exiting the dream world, I felt a slight discomfort in my privates, but not only them, the uncomfortable feeling went from my feet to my head. My eyes were heavier than usual, typical of when I wake up every morning to go to school to loiter... But what is this strange pain permeating in my head? I don't remember drinking yesterday to have a hangover.... I just went ... Strange, for some reason I can't access my last memories. A black fog roams through my mind and prevents me from going far enough to remember. And something deep, deep in my mind, a nagging feeling that tells me to open my eyes immediately, because something is wrong. That's kind of obvious, isn't it? What the hell happened to me? To try to get out of the groggy haze in my mind, I open my eyes and am met with a different sight than I am used to upon waking. There was no messy room, no dirty clothes scattered in the corners, no beer cans in the wastebasket, my posters of naked women were no longer nailed to the walls. In fact, there were no walls made of bricks around me, no ceiling, my hard bed was no longer there. I was lying on a carpet of lush natural green grass, practically naked. Even my Simpsons underwear that I wear to sleep was gone. "What kind of trouble am I in this time!?" I stand up and start looking for hidden cameras around me. Maybe I was in some crazy TV show where they kidnapped me, ripped off my clothes and threw me into a forest infested with snakes, poisonous insects and carnivorous animals ready to take my life. Then I will be suffering for several days with hunger, thirst, dirt and full of despair. And finally, I will end up in a dark and damp place in a fetal position crying. Just to generate entertainment for a group of idiots. "Um, I would certainly pay to watch someone suffering like that..." After quickly searching my surroundings, I realize that my theory was wrong, there were no cameras filming me. And I only realized that my problems were bigger than a simple eccentric reality show, that's when I cast my gaze to the sky above, beyond the line of the treetops that danced gently with the wind. The sun was shining brightly, blowing away the white clouds. The orb possessed an emerald green color, not yellowish tones. It made the air around me warm, but I could also feel the humidity present. Typical of a rainforest. "At least, fucking the biology monitora earned me some knowledge.... She talked too much, but she was a good loli..." Realizing the unfavorable conditions, I was thankful to be inside the forest where the shadows of the trees would protect me from the strong rays of the sun. But with my bare skin on display, I will have some problems if there are mosquitoes. Besides the scratches I will suffer on the thorny bushes... "How will I get clothes in the middle of a forest?" As I stopped to think about how to protect my skin from the thorns and other pests, a bell sound rang in my head. It was faint, but enough to make me feel disturbed and then a semi-transparent screen appeared before my eyes as an answer. ____________________ Survivor Builder System User Name: Kaio Armitd State: Normal Thirst level: 2% Hunger level: 2% Level of tiredness: 1% - Inventory - Tools - Clothes - Weapons - Buildings ____________________ That... What the hell, why did a video game screen appear before my eyes? Not believing what my eyes could see, I looked at my surroundings again, there were no cameras or drones. I also noticed three projectiles of moons distant from each other, half unlit because it was still daytime. And the screen followed my eyes deliberately. "I guess I finally went crazy haha...." Hesitant to accept the reality, I tried to interact with the screen by using my index finger on the bar that contained clothes. "That's interesting..." As soon as I pressed, a list of garments appeared before my eyes. Consumed by the desire to own some garment to cover my privates, I pressed the topic and then a few options came up. Underwear made of leather, cotton and fiber... Hmmm, underwear made of fibers? Animal skin? What kind of person would wear something like this? Going by the most obvious choice, I chose the option made with cotton apparently. But... ____________ - Cotton underwear - Material needed [ 1 roll of yarn] - [Inventory = 0]  - Insufficient amount of material to perform this action. ____________ "So I have to possess a roll of yarn to make a simple cotton brief, I think I can understand how that system works, but how am I going to get in roll of yarn..." Thinking a bit about the functions of the system itself, I decide to check the tools topic, it was a guess, but a sure guess from what I can see. The rolls of yarn that are used to construct clothing were there. And to make a small roll, I need eight handfuls of cotton. Which I cannot do either, because I have nothing in my hands right now. But besides this there were the rolls made with fibers, and apparently they are small threads taken from the stems of trees. "For my sake, it still came with some necessary explanations.... Seeing now, I can use this to get some garments quickly..." "Let's see about the weapons now..." Looking briefly at the weapons, I can say that some of them work like the clothes. I have to click to see all their various types on another screen, from made with stone tips to steel tips. Unimaginable to me now. "Well, okay! Thrown into another world with a system to build.... And before I scream hysterically like a good-for-nothing, I'm going to spend a little time getting some clothing while I explore this place.

Rays of sunlight hit the deck of his commanding ship, the screams of desperate sailors in the distance flooded the air. His first mate beside him panicked as the rest of his commanding officers chanted nonsense as they desperately attempted to fight back. His Fleet, once known as the Pride and the greatest baby of the Artesian fleet, was being destroyed within his view, for each one ship blew up. The hostile ship was so distant, merely a blob in my telescope, yet with the deadly accuracy from those shots, we could not even fight back. "How did they fire at such a distance?!.."   …   "They didn't get any close and yet, they are winning. "   ..   "T-this is impossible!"    The Admiral sweats rapidly. This was the same legendary Admiral who once took down a mighty Alervian fleet using ingenious naval tactics and skill, now felt lifeless. There was no victory in this battle, and retreating now would mean losing his head and his family’s name being stained for being ‘cowards’. He had just two options, retreat, or full speed ahead. He clenched his fists, grinning like a mad dog, looking to his right, and commanded his XO.   "Send a message to the prince now! Tell them we have lost the fight! No, tell him that this was no fight but a massacre!"   The officer watched the admiral as his face was brighter than an apple, he simply looked at him and said.   "Yes sir!"   The officer hurriedly left, leaving the admiral and a few of his officers alone, watching the fight. He could only watch to see his ironclad ships get picked off by the single large gray warship.   He then looked at the flag flying majestically atop the bridge, A flag that resembles a red rising sun.   "WHO ARE THESE PEOPLE?!"   Those were the last words he would yell out, as 3 large arrows flew towards them, smoke and fire trailing behind it, with speed like no other. The Admiral knew that this was going to be his end. He watched his officers beside yelling enhancement chants, attempting to do anything.    This was his end. At least he would go down with his ship. He closed his eyes as the arrows hit, exploding on impact.  ----------------------------------   Tokyo, Japan.   November 10, 2021   Loud wails from distant traffic could be heard in the streets, as people outside with their umbrellas walk home from their unfaithful day. Dark clouds hover in the sky. With the rain showering less, as news reports at a nearby electronic store, reports about ``Chinese tension on the senkaku islands``   Within a building in Tokyo, Prime Minister Takahashi was at his office doing paperwork when he looked out the window to see the heavy rain, he got close and placed his finger at the window dragging it down to see the outside.   "It's raining heavier than usual," he muttered, "better get my jacket when I come home." The sight of raining Tokyo night city was something to see after a good watch, he walks back to his desk and looks at his paperwork, looking through the papers reports regarding the small islands near a loud knock came at the door, Takahashi quickly turned to the door, hearing it being knocked once more, he exhaled and went back to his deck not before letting the person get in.   "Enter."   the door opens to see a young man carrying a folder which Takahashi could notice in his right arm, he walks towards him, Takahashi could notice the young man with a concerned face as the senate looks, Takahashi as he places the folder at his desk.   "Prime Minister Takahashi, we have a report from our weather station about a weather anomaly heading towards Japan in about 2 hours from now,"   ….   "Is this normal?"   ….   "No sir, this isn't just any storm that we always encounter, it's something different sir"    It was a unique report to say, even he was surprised to hear, 'Different storm?' He wondered, 'must report this to neighbor countries' knowing that if notifying countries which could be hit by a storm, the situation would be worse if it was not warned.   "Report this to the Koreans, and nearby regions, about this 'heavy rain', have the residents be notified by this as well."   "Yes sir!"   Before the senate heads out, Takahashi felt something was missing from his request with the thought of leaving something out, he remembers as before he got to the door, he stopped him by clearing his voice, the senate noticed it, and turned around with Takahashi clearing his voice.   "Should we inform the Americans?"   "If it's necessary, then yes."   Leaving no other option he sees that having America be informed would be something of a good sight to tell.   "Well, tell them about it."   The Senate heard his final request and soon left the front door, he closed it back and  Takahashi went and leaned on his desk, picking up the picture of his old comrades.   "I'm sorry, I wasn't there," he said softly. As he recollects the days from the Great Japanese Civil War, horrifying events that happened within Japanese history as it was known within Japanese narrative as the "Japanese Imperial War" a fight for power as the pro-imperialist Japanese fought against pro-republicans Japanese, like him, he too joined the fight as that he knew what he did was the greater cause of his nation.   But the days when the Imperial Family had full sovereignty were long gone. But still, they are very important to the society of Japan.    Takahashi placed the picture back as he began to remember when he was a soldier during the Great Japanese Civil War.   ------------------------------   Washington D.C, United States of America   November 10, 2021.   The rain was hitting hard in D.C.as barely any people could see walking on the crossroads, traffic hit hard, as loud beeping could be heard., Inside the White House, the newly elected President Howard Thompson was hunching at his desk wondering about his daughter's upcoming birthday. He was on the phone looking at the Amazon app as he scrolled for "Best Toys" in the market app. He was looking at the window, thinking what gift he should give to his daughter. Then. a loud knock came at the door.   "Enter,"   "Good afternoon Mr. President. We have a report from Japan. They reported a weather anomaly heading there within 2 hours. Our weather stations also reported a similar storm forming in the Atlantic that was heading here" the man said.   "I don't have a good feeling about this. So how powerful is this "storm" ?" he asked. "Well, they reported it's far larger than any typhoon or hurricane ever recorded"    Thompson then replied.   "Alright, tell the weather station to make everyone be in their houses and have every plane be grounded"   The man looked at the president and said,   "Yes sir!"   The man left the room as the president looked behind to see the city of Washington. He then got up as he walked closer to the window to look at the skyscrapers, he then looked up at the sky. The feeling of uneasiness is becoming stronger.   Then something unexpected came. The rain intensified and Thompson looked at his desk to see it shaking, then this shaking turned into a powerful earthquake. The earthquake was so strong that the president was sent flying from his desk causing panic.   The agents in the White House hurriedly rushed inside the president's office. "Mr. President, are you alright?!" said the worried agent.   "I'm fine,"   "Mr. President, we prepared a safe place for you! Please come with us!"   The president nodded, as he followed his security detail As they walked, Thompson got to see everyone panicking as somewhere down at the tables concerning for an earthquake, as he looked at the janitor, hiding a nearby deck, Then they got out of the White House and another powerful earthquake as an outcome a wave of lights moved across the city along with cars were flying. The light disappeared and the cars began to fall as a nearby agent yelled.   "WATCH OUT!"   The president and his bodyguards jumped to the side as the car landed next to them, more cars dropped down. The president looked around the city and he saw that this storm isn't normal, then multiple lightning strikes came with thunder as the alarm in their cars started going off and screams of people could be heard.   The president and his bodyguards got up as they went inside the White House. As he looked out the window, he saw that the storm began to dissipate as it turned into a light rain then stopped.   ----------------------------------   Washington D.C, United States of America   November 15, 2021   5 days after the anomaly, the news reported the new "earthquake bombs" that happened yesterday. Thompson during those days stated to the people that help was on its way across the nation. Mass destruction was made from the storm as coastal cities got hit worse, and mass flooding made it worse from what could be seen on the flat LED screen. Thompson was watching the news broadcast as he looked at the senator with the report. A senator came to the president who looked to his men.   "What's the bad news?" He asked.  And even the senator then looked at him which frightened his face, he cleared his mouth as he then told him the report.   "Mr. President, this "typhoon" is bad news for us. 32 people dead and like this, our natural and disaster team, have been working day and night as we have reported more information of people getting stuck in their destroyed homes"   Thompson was shocked as he could only be upset by the news, he never thought that something like this would occur, as he looked at his senator to hear more reports,  "not only that, NASA has reported that we have lost all communication satellites.   Thompson never thought to hear such a statement, as it was the reason why internet connections were not working, as reports made across the country with phones and electronics were not working properly, even the TV that Thompson is looking at was not working properly as it was found that the American satellites were no longer under their control He got up as he quickly asked.   "Can we reconnect the satellites?"    Thompson question.   "Unfortunately, we can’t sir. We tried to contact them 5 times yet they didn't respond." The president was undermined and disappointed, he got down to his chair as he could hear more info.   "And we also lost contact with other major countries, Mr. President"   After the man said that America lost contact with other major countries, as it was nothing like before, airliners that were traveling to Europe or Asia were told to be gone on the radar screen. The worst part, Thompson glanced at him and was shocked to hear.   "What do you mean we lost contact with every major country?!"   "Not only the major countries, Sir. We lost all contact with Europe, the Middle East, and Asia!"   President Thompson was at the desk, upset., The reports of losing satellites and the communications with its allies are the worst, as reports more about convoys from America and other nations reportedly didn't come, Thompson could see that his national economic growth would be damaged as foreign trading has been severed, he felt like he wanted to give up, as his senator then told him the good news.   "But for some reason, we still have a line of communications with Japan Sir." the senator said. Thompson then looked at him as if the face of his senator wasn't joking or grinning. He then leaned properly as he then asked him.   "So, Japan is with us and we can contact them if needed," said Thompson, realizing him of the thought that his country would be alone, he then looked at the senator once more with his eyes as joyed at the fact that his nation isn't alone.   "Well, contact them! And tell them that we should hold a conference with the Japanese diplomats at the White House while NASA finds any satellites to connect with" The man said "Yes, Mr. President" then he left the room. Left alone, Thompson began to connect the dots from data made so far, as he sees that Japan is with them. "But why Japan?" he asks as he could see that most major allies with America are now gone.   ------------------------------- Tokyo, Japan   November 15, 2021   Takahashi scrambled through the papers to see how bad the damages were during the earthquake bombs. Outside the window, damaged cars and roads could be seen everywhere, as Japanese workers began fixing the damaged road and a mass clean up could be seen, as the TV began to broadcast what has transpired.   "Did anyone die during this?"   "No reports of any deaths but we have reports of 20 injured people" worried more he then looked to his senator worried about the imperial family.   "How about the Imperial Family?"   "They are fine, Sir. Emperor Yokohama and his family are unharmed."   Takahashi was relieved that so far no deaths had come from the earthquake bombs and the Imperial Family was also unharmed. He took a deep breath as he then sighed from the summary, his senator then told him some extra reports.   "But unfortunately sir, despite us having no deaths, we also lost connections to our satellites. Not only that, but we also lost contact with every country in Asia" shocked by the report, as he never expected something to come.    "Lost connection to major countries?" That was ridiculous he thought as he was worried about this as, by this time, it was stated that China would attempt an invasion on Okinawa,   "What do you mean we lost contact?"    "We tried contacting South Korea, but they didn't respond sir. We have also tried to contact China as well but they also didn't respond.   Takahashi is now confused. Every nation that Japan had connections with seemingly vanished. With this report, he is now worried that his country has become isolated and he doesn't want that. The Japanese economy will drop, no, it will collapse. And his nation might have another civil war if he wasn't able to solve this massive problem quickly.   "Are there any nations we can contact?" Takahashi asked   "Unfortunately, there--"   A knock came at the door, not making the senator finish his words, Takahashi looked behind and made the men enter the room, he went close to the prime minister's paper with his left hand, and raised the paper, and said the following to Takahashi.   "Prime Minister Takahashi, I have great news!. America has contacted us and they requested to send diplomats to the White House"    the man said with joy on his face. This news greatly relieved Takahashi. Japan's most powerful ally is with them and has the same situation as well. Takahashi looked at the man and said   "Very well, send the diplomats to the White House. Tell them that I'll be joining"   "Yes, sir," the man said, then he quickly left. Takahashi looked at his desk and made sure that he wouldn't make his country fall apart again.   --------------------------------   Washington D.C, United States   November 17, 2021   At Dulles International airport, an aircraft from the Japanese just landed on the ground. The American president, a few senators, and some from the media were there waiting for Prime Minister Takahashi to appear on the plane.   The plane came to a halt. Slowly, the doors opened and the stairs were preparing. Prime Minister Takahashi came out first then his subordinates joined him. President Thompson became delighted to see him and went to him first as he pulled out his right hand to have a handshake.   "Prime Minister Takahashi, welcome to America," he said with a smile as he shook his hand.   "Thank you, Mr. President, I'm thankful that you've contacted us" Takahashi replied happily as he knew that his country wasn't going to be alone.   As they shook hands, the president looked behind to see a crowd of news reporters. He looked back at Takahashi and whispered.   "Well, should we go?"   "Yes, we should," Takahashi responded. They left the area with security around them they walked inside, the airport, the security in the buildings got closer to the two leaders, with reporters flowing towards them, asking questions,    "MISTER PRESIDENT! Did the earthquake make the country lose contact with other countries?!"   …   "MISTER PRESIDENT! Do you think this earthquake was caused by the Chinese?!"   None said anything else, with both looking at each other chuckling at what happened, they made it into the exit and got to the presidential state car. Moving within the roads outside police motorcycles and few police cars move information as in the center both President Thompson started a conversation with Prime Minister Takahashi. Looking outside Washington city was a sight he saw, and he remembers it being different since 2007.   "I may say that Thompson, the capital, is far more different since the last time I visited."   Thompson chuckled from the response. He was behind to see a bottle of whisky, and he looked at Takahashi with an expression of Takahashi craving some. Takahashi smoked at him which made Thompson grab a glass and give it to Takahashi, he took a sip and the prime minister's face looked pleased.   "Thank you, Mr. President, need that one."   They both drank the whiskey, taking time on the drink, and seeing that things were getting quiet, the president asked a question, Takahashi.   "Prime Minister, do you know what happened during the past week?"   "As of now Mr. President, I'm not yet sure what happened. We tried to connect with our satellites but we couldn't"   Thompson could see that the prime minister is in the same situation as him, not only that both of their nation's economies had a big dip when the "typhoon" came.   After that, they reached the White House, then proceeded to the Oval Office to begin the talks. With the Japanese prime minister and a few commanders with the president. The room went dark as the meeting began.  A young man who works at NASA came into the room.   "Good morning gentlemen, my name is Richard Afield. I will begin explaining what happened to our country during the 7-day silence"   "2 days ago, I and a few colleagues of mine found something flying over the new planet’s orbit. We found out that it was a satellite. We later worked to connect with it for 4 hours and after we got in, we found out something shocking"   Afield showed everyone in the room what happened to the United States and Japan.   "Gentlemen, it seems that we're not on Earth anymore"   After he said that, everyone in the room began to mutter. Finding themselves in an almost impossible situation, some of them didn't even believe it but some were wondering what would happen?.   One of the senators got up and asked "Is the mainland the only one that got transported here?" She asked.   "No. We looked closely and found the islands that belonged to us came along with us to this new world" he said. Then another man asked a question "Does this new world have any resources like oil and other raw materials?"   "Perhaps. There's a chance that raw materials exist in this new world, and the same goes for crude oil."   Then one of the commanders asked a question.   "Have you found any country out there? Even if there is, would they even do diplomacy with us?"   "We currently do not know whether or not there are nations out there as we're currently working on it. But even if there are nations out there, I cannot say whether they will do diplomacy with us or wage war" Afield said.   People started to talk about this new world but President Thompson told everyone to quiet down.   "Mr. Afield, I thank you for sharing this information with us."   Afield then nodded and left the room Everyone at the office began planning their next move.   "So, does anyone have ideas?"   "We should conduct reconnaissance out to this new world. Mainly planes and possibly, the navy" one commander said. "Yes, and we can have them send a message to us if they're willing to have diplomatic relations.,"   "But what if that nation is hostile?"   "Well, we can fight back if needed to" As everyone looked at the president, then the president looked at the prime minister.   "Japan will join in as well," Takahashi said President Thompson then ordered.   "Begin preparations for a fleet and also put diplomats in it in case of the first contact. Remain alert in case the contact doesn't go well"   "Yes, Mr. President"   President Thompson, seeing that the conference is gonna end, suddenly spoke   "We should discuss our plans for this new world and our economy. Oil prices will soon rise due to our oil trading partners being gone. People would soon start hoarding oil and gasoline if they can't find any oil. Dismiss"   Everyone in the room got up and left the room. President Thompson went to Prime  Minister Takahashi to say his thanks before he leaves for Japan.   "I thank you for coming to the US, Prime Minister Takahashi"   "It's not a problem, President Thompson, I see that our country is near to a continent bigger than ours" Takahashi replied "Well, you should start watching on your New Sea of Japan" he joked The prime minister chuckled at the president's joke.   "Well, we'll have to see about that." Outside of the White House, President Thompson shakes the hand of Prime Minister Takahashi to say their goodbyes. In the car, one of Takahashi's senators spoke up   "Prime Minister, we should begin preparations in case of a diplomatic contact," he said   "Tell the Navy to prepare an expeditionary fleet. Also, tell the Coast Guard to extensively patrol the New Sea of Japan, and alert any naval vessels to move near Japan"    His senator simply nodded as they heard this. preparations began for the Americans and the Japanese.   ----------------------------------   Sollan, Kingdom of Alervon   November 17, 1773   The city was nothing like before, as people could be seen walking on the road as it was another day in the capital of Alervon, the streets were filled to the brim with people walking by as carriages at the stone roads moved along the street, and atop of a hill sits an enormous mansion with white color being a something for the locals call a significance of the city.   A young girl was running through the royal hallways and as she soon reached her mother's throne room and knocked on the door. Royal Guards behind the door proceeded to open the door and saw the Queen of Alervon and her mother reading a book that came from the 2nd civilization.   "The concept of nations being transported and being sent here is a very interesting theory."    It was an interesting book for herself to read seeing it with a unique concept between them and people from another world, to her knowledge from the book, the theory concept was made from the 2nd civilization a book that could be barely be given as the story goes that when people or countries would get transported if an occasion happens to the world, the concept was somewhat convincing to say and seeing that the book was published by a person from the 2nd civilization see this a rare book to have and keeping it was the best choice for her to do. To her, knowing books from 2nd and 3rd was rare to get, due to the technology prohibition made from the superpowers. She placed the book back in its cabinet and walked to the window where there was a full view of the city and dock's bay.   The young princess walks towards her mother. standing at the site of the city and smiling from the view   "Good Morning, mother." The young Princess greeted, as she bows at the sight of her mother. She turns to her and gives a quick smile.   "Good Morning, Elizabeth."   Both stared at each other as their beautiful eyes couldn't be ignored and seeing it being awkward the princess loomed at the cabinet with fewer books to be noticed. She looks back at her mother and asks about the book she read earlier.   "What book are you reading, mother?" the princess curiously asked.   "Oh? This? Well, it's a book from one of the countries in the 2nd civilization. It's about a theory that nations would come here because they were transported."   Interesting concept to say, but knowing that she isn't the type of person to read books and learn something, she asked more as to make the queen make a conversation.   "Interesting. Do you think that this theory is real?"   "Well, I'm not sure about that, but I'm very sure that I'll be joining the 4th Civilizations Kingdoms Conference,"    The conference was something for her to attend due to the capabilities of her kingdom being recognize as a potential superpower she wouldn't mind attending once as a way to show respect.   "What's so important about it?" Elizabeth asked.   "Well, this conference is also an opportunity. If the superpowers invite you to this event, they will see your country as a strong nation"   Before Elizabeth asked another question, a knock came at the door opening. A man with a formal uniform came inside looking around to find her highness seeing her sitting down, he walked towards her with the sight of elegant women bowing towards her.   "Your highness!" The messenger greeted "one of our wyvern knights reported a massive grey dragon with a red circle-like emblem at the side of it,"   'Grey dragon with a red emblem?' The queen mumbled, confused by the statement she asked once more as she wasn't able to understand what the messenger said.   "Your highness! Reports from the port stated that there's a flying grey beast! Flying low at the port! This beast has a Red circle at the side."   Sound dangerous to say, with the queen heard this she was interested, seeing this as a potential threat, the queen looked to the women at the door, standing with her black hair, the girl walked towards the queen and the messenger valve at her as she got down on one knee as she waited for the command.   "Have the royal wyvern squadron be alerted, but down attack immediately, if it did something kill it at all cost."   The girl immediately got up and thanked the left without any word she walked to the door and closes it behind, and looking back at the messenger, she coughed twice which made the messenger turn back.   "Go on." She said, which made the messenger get back to his senses and look at the paper once more.   "Yes, it was reported that it can climb to the sky far greater than any other dragons and that it tried to communicate with us,"   It sounded worse than a dragon as most wyverns she had, wouldn't be capable of flying higher than the clouds, seeing this far dangerous as she thought.   "Did the dragon attack any places around sollan?"   "No your highness, the dragon has yet to attack and it was something odd."   "Your highness I'll like to mention that, this type of dragon has been trying to look that it wanted to speak or communicate!"   It was something for the queen as she didn't expect that from her own personal messenger, 'dragon that didn't attack and tried to communicate? That's unusual,' she thought. Then she made a decision seeing it as a gamble but being a woman with a big heart she spoken her words and making the messenger know.   "Try to communicate with this dragon and if possible, have it land in our airfield."   It was shocking to hear, he hasn't expected something she would order, but being the Queen herself and risking something that can be dangerous he bow and before leaving the room.  "Yes, Your Majesty!"  He walked out with the queen and the princess being all alone in the room, "im gonna check on the report." The princess said walking away as she headed to her mother's desk, she didn't say anything like the question about the dragon was filling her head, seeing this as a risky option he didn't want to make it worse, she knows what she commanded can lead to life or death and hearing this question she begins to see that something would change by the time she meets this so-called dragon. End of chapter 1

The sounds of cars passing by on the freeway mesh with the rain on the sunroof, creating a sea of white noise. As I write this, ashen blank clouds drift across the dark night sky. Buildings scroll by in parallax and the occasional imperfections in the paved highway road jostle me in my seat. The rainy windows cast rolling shadows from tall looming light posts along the street. A dim phone screen stares at me as I slowly type out in the notes app. Slowing down to a milder speed, the car takes the ramp off the highway, stopping at an intersection. The Mazda is heading for a restaurant, presumably a Chinese one, that’s what these Saturday night family excursions usually are. Lights blinking as my father signals right, we turn into traffic. Accelerating, traffic begins to swiftly pass by again. Soon, the visage of an outdoor strip mall approaches on the right. Once again, my father signals right, and we turn into a car park in front of the stores. The parking is unusually full, but scanning the area for spots, father rolls forward behind another vehicle to a lot. Turning sharply into the rectangular box framed by yellow lines, the car shifts into park, and the dashboard hums lightly before dimming, and turning off entirely. My mother, riding shotgun, stretches her arms as far up as the car will allow, “Finally, we’re here,” she exhales and turns to exit the car. I unclip my seatbelt, and make to exit as well. Grasping the handle on my left, I open the car door. Stepping out of the Mazda, the numerous light poles in the parking lot flood my vision with bright light. My eyes had acclimated to the lower level of illumination in the car, caused by tinted windows filtering out harsher tones. Unused to the light, it takes a moment of orientation before I can see my brother stepping out of the opposite side of the car. The sound of all four car doors closing shut with momentum one after the other can be heard as we walk away from the car. My father makes a contemplative noise and notes a passing remark, “We never park the far out from the restaurant, seems really busy tonight,” I respond mindlessly with a gentle grunt indicating some agreement. To my right I can hear my brother make a similar response. The restaurant my father was referring to stood to the right of where we parked. A neon sign reads “Crown Royal Seafood”, alongside some bright pictures of said seafood. Walking towards the storefront, a busy Chinese diner can be seen operating. Underneath the sign, windows show the faces of families eating with mostly happy faces. Stepping up to the glass door, I pull open to enter the restaurant. My grandmother and uncle have already arrived, I know that. So I walk to the back of the restaurant, with my family trailing behind, to meet them sitting around a circular table. “Hello Mama, hello uncle” I greet and nod as I pull out one of the six chairs at the table to sit down on. My uncle nods back with a smile, “Good evening Jun”, Mama does the same, albeit with some more enthusiasm, “Good evening!”. “Jun, can you take my jacket and hang it up on your chair?” my mother asks, and I hold out my arm, placing the purple article of clothing around the back of my chair. The rest of my family sits down, and the restaurant cacophony of noise drowns out to a blanket of background noise. Glancing around, Chinese lettering adorns the restaurant on colourful strips of paper that spell out a myriad of dishes not listed on the english menu. I wish I could tell you what they said, but I’ve already forgotten my Chinese school teachings from many years past in my adolescent ages. I sit back and relax, listening to the familiar clinking of plastic chopsticks on ceramic plates, bowls, and teacups. Our waiter comes over with a teapot brewing leaves, and a pot of hot water. In cantonese, he asks for our order, and my father responds in kind. While I have absolutely no reading skills, I have been trying to build up some proficiency in my cantonese speech. I used to speak cantonese even better than english at some point, but when school became the centre of my life, it slowly depreciated until I had to spend minutes thinking of words to say. Recently, I came to a realisation that cantonese is one of my only ties to my heritage, and that I found myself liking how the language sounded more and more. So I began to make more efforts in speaking cantonese. Something I hope will build to a proficiency high enough that I feel comfortable speaking to people who have zero knowledge of any language except cantonese. Anyways, back to the food, the waiter takes our order, and we begin to talk about various topics of interest, meandering from idea to idea. Soon, a clear pork bone soup arrives, and alongside it, the rest of the dishes; soy sauce marinated chicken, braised pork, deep fried fish, pineapple sweet and sour beef, and tofu fish bowl. The conversation continues through the meal, and I fall back into my mind. Recently, while things haven’t been going horribly, many decisions could have been better made.  I’ll start with school, usually, my worst subject ends up being english, something I’ve come to expect. Among all of my other marks english tends to drift to a high eighty, whereas most of my other marks would land on a low ninety. Given that my english is currently sitting at a mid to high ninety, it’s the only accomplishment I feel entitled to at the moment. Moving to my other subjects, history and physics, they aren’t doing horrible, my history is a high eighty, and my physics is a low ninety, but I feel saddened by a notion of disappointment. I know I could have done better. I have a history of doing well in maths, and normally my math marks sit as my highest mark, around the high ninety’s. Physics is something I found pretty easy at the start of the school, year, and I still find it not that too difficult. However, I’ve been getting back a number of dissatisfactory assessments. And the major reason for the lower marks is not a lack of understanding, but making stupid mistakes. Forgetting to go from kilometres per hour to meters per second, mindlessly plugging in wrong numbers, all easily avoidable mistakes. Just this last week, I received a test marked in the low eighty’s, something I haven’t seen in years for math. I feel… despondent, like I can’t be successful because I’ll go the rest of my life making mistakes. “Jun, can you pass the teapot?” my uncle asks. “mhm, yeah”, I pull out of my ruminating to fill my uncle’s teacup, holding the lid and tilting the pot over. I take a look around the restaurant, while it’s still quite busy, the previous wave of customers has cleared out, leaving some vacant tables for some waiting families standing at the doorway of the store. I fade out the stimuli of the restaurant once more, thinking back to earlier in the afternoon. Last school year, I needed a laptop to type up work on, and I wanted one that would be capable of running fast for video games I wanted to play. The cost of the laptop ended up being around fifteen hundred dollars after an additional upgrade I did to increase it’s performance capabilities. I was incredibly happy with my acquisition. Within the last two days however, I began to have problems with the laptop. The problem lay with the charging. When the laptop was plugged in, a light would indicate that the laptop was receiving charge. The light would turn off and blink periodically, disconnecting, and stop charging the computer. I began to worry about the laptop, so I backed up the system to an external hard drive. This morning, the problem was even worse, the charging would only happen sometimes, and the laptop wouldn’t charge for long periods of time. Then, when I plugged the laptop in after lunch, the screen turned off, and the charge light died. My stomach sank. I pushed the power button in the hopes that it would turn on, but nothing occurred. Now, I’m in the possession of a dead laptop, and I have to tell my father when I get home, as I’ve been nervous to break the news to him. The laptop has been in my ownership for only around a year and a half, less than half the amount of time I wanted to use it for. Not only that, the laptop costed my father a large sum of money, something I now wasted. As I believe the laptop died as a result of mishandling I did with the computer. Putting me at direct fault for it. Eventually, desert comes in, a red bean soup that is quite an acquired taste for most. We finish the soup, and stand up from the table. “Here mommy”, I pass the weighty jacket back to her, and follow my family back out the restaurant. A long shadow follows me out to the car, walking between parked cars, stepping over shallow puddles left by the rain long over by now. I stand by the Mazda, waiting for my father to unlock the car, before stepping inside. Resting my head against the seat, I close my heavy eyelids, and feel the car back out of the parking lot, and drive back home. Turning into the sloped driveway of our home, the car slows to a crawl before parking, and the vehicle beeps, indicating the doors opening. The night sky has darkened, even more so than a couple of hours ago. The only nearby lamp post illuminates the wet soil and sidewalk still yet to dry. The air rests heavy on the area, if it were colder, fog would blanket my vision and I would see puffs of cold mist from my mouth as I exhaled. Step after step, my stride takes my up a number of stairs to the front door. I’m the first to get there, so I take my key out of my wallet and  unlock the door. I put my key back, and enter the house. Taking off my running shoes, and putting on a pair of slippers, I make my way into the washroom, relieving myself and washing my hands on the way out into my room. Palms sweaty, I approach my laptop sitting on top of my desk and press the start button. Nothing happens, it’s still dead. I just feel defeated. At what feels like is my lowest point. I stand up, and make my way over to my father. “Hey, daddy?”

Saku Arakan paced around her palace a bit panicked, her silver hair swayed as she paced up and down, The cherry blossoms she made into a crown fell off her hair, Sighing, she went to pick it up, when suddenly, a blast of energy came flying at her. She teleported away from the postion she was at with her flower crown, putting on the crown she faced the proprietor, she smirked and spoke in a teasing voice "Aw~, don't be in a hurry, I'm right here to play with you~" Himari stared at this annoying bitch she had sworn to kill, who knew her powers only came from possession, Finding out she was born in a higher plane better than theirs really pissed her off, she was all powerful but now, she would die in her hands! She (H) wouldn't be bound to be her slave ever again! She would become the queen here..... Just like the new sun god said, there was no way better to pull down a god if not by betrayal. But this couldn't really be called betrayal as saku arakan was never trusting, no matter what she did, she couldn't get this freak of nature- saku, to trust her; Nevertheless, it didn't matter now, she (S) was sure unlucky, making such a high leveled enemy and one ready to chase her all the way from the higher plane down to this place. "Tonight, you die saku" himari said hoping to cause this annoying weirdo to panic even a bit "Calling me saku huh? (sits on throne and crosses legs), no respect for your queen?" "We dethrone you saku! You are no longer our queen" "Eh? But I throned myself?" Himari: You little..... Saku stood up, her long silver hair that reached her butt swaying along with her as she stepped down majestically from her throne, looking so queenly and charming. Facing the legion himari brought along with her, she said— "See why I trust no one, eh? Himari?  You and they are not worth my time, so take out what's giving you the confidence to challange my authority, let's have a real fight" Saku said baring her teeth in a wild smile Gritting her teeth because of her inability to retort she could only say- "Very well saku" __________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Few hours later, staggering, saku was bloodied all over staring at the exact replica of the people that made her still want life. Himari was standing at their back staring right at her with a pleased expression, as if this was exactly why she came to be in the universe Saku suddenly screamed and fell down with a 'thump' on her kneels while lowering her head, her long silver hair sliding down across her shoulders. Even in such a state she still looked beautiful, the contrast between her glowing pale skin and silver hair with the blood all over her body made her look more dazzling in an ethereal way making himari grit her teeth in envy. Saku suddenly broke into a soul-wrenching scream, she seemed to be fighting something with all her will, Seemingly to be unable to keep up, she passed out...... Inside a castle was a pale skinned girl with silver hair, she laid sprawled on the floor taking in shallow breaths with blood all over her body. It looked so heart-wrenching and she looked so frail like a rare beautiful star slowly loosing its shine making you want to protect it completely from all viles..... Yet for some reason a deadly threat encompassed her, she looked so weak like you could crush her if you wanted, but instinct contrasted, telling you otherwise that you would turn to ashes at just a touch Protect.....Protect.....Keep away.....Keep away..... Such contradiction was enough to drive you insane, all you had to do was look away but for some reason......you can't. And so you're obsession is developed sinking you deeper and deeper into the dark abyssal without your knowledge. Indeed, even in all fragility, Saku Arakan was a hazard. Such disaster of a creature suddenly stared and stood up, her silver hair had turned spring green and her eyes where the same, Her eyes no longer held the daring look but rather a look of total indifference, as if everything was worth nothing in her sight. Mirror-Kanfa who looked just like kanfa and was holding a bloody knife with no injury whatsoever smirked and said "You're here?" Atama-I possessed this very stubborn kid and stared at the disaster they had created then, merely for company, she had predicted at that time that this creatures would come back to haunt them one day and look at this… Seeing saku stood up with her silver hair and eyes turned spring green, mirror atama-I launched at atama-I, Atama-i was a very calculating being and had already erected a temporary barrier to protect herself from these maniacs for a while. Taking a very long breath and started a spell.... "Let thy laws be consumated, oh cosmic. As i behest thou that in exchange of my wishes, take away all humanity therein me, Let my obsequience be proved by thou heavens!" Suddenly everywhere turned pitch black, nothingness was felt.... Existance seem to be unexistant and the feeling of lacking form was gravely felt. It seemed like the laws of space manifested in the palace, stars were seen, planets were moving in an orderely manner but their speed was unhindered. Thunder bolts assulted atama-I, it was extremely painful, like a thousand ants was biting and stinging her body, her muscles, cells, internal organs.....but she still had a straight face. Mirror atama-I gritted her teeth, "Do you really care so much about this kid?!" Atama-I who was under the barrage of the thunder glanced at mirror atama-I and said "Since she cared for me, it can only be a logical manner that i return it, no?" Mirror-atama-i could only watch on helplessly........... The mirror ems not strong enough to interfere with the laws of cosmic could only glare at atama-I and watch her disintegrate right before their eyes to God know where. In frustration mirror guruti looked at himari, then stared at mirror atama-I "You can eat her you pig, in the end she was useless" "No! wait I can be of…." Right then gruesome and deafening munching sounds was heard. Just like that the great goddess fell, her betrayer was eaten, while the palace was plundered by other gods due to absence of a strong ruler to protect the palace's treasure and the people of the palace were scattered around. In a destroyed palace stood a woman, the darkness shielded her image. She bent down, picking up a mirror, muttered to herself something but ended up increasing her voice in the end "In the end that girl was useless, running away are we saku? They helped you escape huh? I will find you saku and finally KILL YOU ALONG WITH THEM" A smirk stretched across her dark lips as she left.     CONTINUE READING IN MEGANOVEL!

Reaper's Quest Volume I: Red Embers And Whitish Skeleton Prologue "Y-you're pathetic!" She yelled as she looked at the abomination that was his room; scattered socks, jumbled pants, leftover cup noodles, and cardboard boxes were everywhere, and in a corner was the one and only "James" striking the keys in his joystick while peering in the screen. "What do you want, lily?" James asked without even turning his head. "You," She opened her mouth to yell again, but a cloud of pungent smell kissed her nose and mouth, "Eww!" She covered her mouth. "What's that smell?" "Dead rats. Killing them was easy. Disposing them was a bother, so I just left them under the cardboards." James replied stoically. "H-how could you be so unhygienic?" Lily took two steps back. "Again, Lily, what do you want?" "You disappeared for two months without any prior notice or reason! Do you realize how it affected me?" She facepalmed, "I'm here to take you back." James's fingers halted. "Hmm." He threw away the joystick to the side and stood up. "Book me a new hotel room, and inform the guild master that I've headed to a dungeon." "Dungeon?" She winced. "No! You're taking a bath, getting dressed, and heading to the guild to answer for your disappearance." She firmly held the mull posts of the door with her hands. "After all, I went through no way I am letting you slip away again." "Oh, Lily, I find it cute that you think blocking the door would stop me from leaving." He kept his arms in the pocket. James wore nothing but a loose sleeveless white shirt and black sweatpants. His white shirt had turned yellow due to the strains left from the noodles, and his face looked dim as the last time he'd washed up was two months ago. Still, even in his clothes, he looked intimidating due to his tall build and athletic body. "I can and I will!" Lily retaliated fiercely. James shrugged. "Fine. Whatever." ✬✮✯ "The former rising star, James, aka, the monster who slaughtered 12 hunters in one night, has been spotted heading inside Specter Guild–" The TV closed. "So James," The guild master kept the remote on the table. "As you can see, you're now infamous." James leaned back on his hydraulic chair. "I suppose so, but was it wise, bringing me to the guild so publicly? Now everyone knows." The guild master took out one of the cigars from the drawers. The guild master was widely known as Velefer, and his age exceeded a thousand years, but physically he looked like a man in his 40s with a goatee. Right now, he wore a tuxedo and sat behind a desk. "The opinions of the public or the other guilds no longer concern me." He lit up the cigar with a metallic lighter. "So, tell me, James, what exactly happened two months ago?" James met his gaze and sighed, "I entered that Labyrinth, and as you predicted, I found the hidden quest." "Considering the massacre, I assume you failed?" Velefer asked. James chuckled. "No. I completed it." "Then, why did you disappear?" "Because you were wrong about the reward." James stood up and gazed out of the window. "Was I now?" The memory of that day was still vivid in his mind like it was yesterday. It happened in the Labyrinth of the Mad Queen. He'd stood at the end of the labyrinth, beneath the empty stone throne, around him were the corpses of the other 12 hunters, and the blade he held in his hand was drenched in blood. He'd done it. He'd completed the quest. 〚Name: James Zyler〛 〚You Have Completed The Quest, "The Mad Queen's Desire"〛 〚As A Reward You May Replace Your <SSS+ Rank> Skill With The Mad Queen's Either Eternal Skill Or One-Time-Use Skill〛 〚The Mad Queen's Skills〛  Eternal Skill - Kiss Of Death: Unyielding. Undying. Undiminished. You Gain Access To <Immortality> One-Time-Use Skill - Alter Passenger: Unflagging. Unwavering. You Gain Access To Drift Through <River Of Time> Once. "So, you did get the reward." Velefer puffed his cigar. Thud! James stomped the desk with his fist. "You said I would gain one of the Mad Queen's abilities. You never said I would have to sacrifice my own to do that." "An unfortunate thing indeed, but which one did you take?" Velefer asked. "None!" James winced. "There is no point in taking either. What's the point if I become immortal but lose my means of combat. I won't be able to fight, and worst case, I would be taken as an undying prisoner who gets tortured forever. If I go back in time, I will be a skilless boy. I won't even be allowed to enter the Throne City. I would have the knowledge of the future but no means to utilize it. It would be like I don't exist. And face it, without me, humanity would have fallen years ago." "James," Velefer stood up. "None of the other guilds know of this, none of the citizens are aware, no one but you and I know that by the end of this year, 10,000 Gates will simultaneously open and through those Gates will march an army. An army we won't be able to fight against." He walked near Janes and looked him in his eyes, "So, you have to make a decision."  "I have a plan. We can inform all the guild masters. We can gather the remaining S rank hunters and escape." "Escape?" Velefer chuckled. "You're young and naive. The only future that would lead to is extinction. For how long do you intend to run until we get picked one by one, till no one remains, or do you think with time we will magically find a way to outmaneuver our foes?" He sighed. "I have always assured you when the right time comes, I will tell you the truth—the truth about the System, the Gates, the Skills, and the beings chasing us. For humans to survive, there is only one way. So, let me tell you the truth, and ask you to give up your humanity." Chapter 1: James Zyler The planet Zithrus was in shambles currently; humanity was divided into two halves. The System gifted one halve; they could gain skills, level up, and accomplish miracles. They were known as Sorcerers, and Sorcerers who invaded Dungeons and traveled through Gates were known as Hunters. The other halves were known as the 'Ungifted' They were just typical humans. The Sorcerers and Ungifted shared a completely different lifestyle. Sorcerers lived in the throne city. Throne city, initially, was a village established by the first Sorcerers in the Eco Continent, but during the 21st century, when monsters invaded the Continent, civilians fled the lands. However, the Sorcerers retaliated; thus, the Throne City expanded as Sorcerers conquered more land and eventually covered half of the Continent. Ungifted lived in the Esturian Continent.  Over 3 billion civilians/ungifted lived a peaceful life in Esturian Content, thanks to the Sorcerers holding off all the monsters in the Eco Continent. For people striving to live a normal life and starting a family, it was a great place to live in as there were excellent medical, transportation, education facilities. But of course, many wished to leave it, especially youngsters who dreamt of being Sorcerers. However, only those gifted with skills were allowed that privilege. Right now, in the Zrin City, Esturian Continent, inside Ister Highschool, the students had all gathered for a test. The students all sat patiently in their seats. They had gone through their high school graduation ceremony just yesterday, and today, the teachers invited them for a test. "Jonathan Murray." The examiner called. The one who took the text wore a white robe with golden inscriptions. Behind him were four guards, who wore black suits, and plain black masks on their faces. The examiner looked like a young man in his mid-20s, with back hair and shiny golden eyes. He called the students one by one to the desk in front of him, atop which was a translucent crystal ball. The test was relatively simple; the student would place his hand on the ball. If it glowed, he passed, if not failed.  "Candidate: 10003478. Jonathan Murray. Failed" One by one, he called the students and announced the results. "Candidate: 10003479. Kieran Edwards. Failed" "Candidate: 10003480.Leo Price. Failed" "Candidate: 10003481.Maxwell Dixon. Failed" "Candidate: 10003482.Robin Stevens. Failed" The atmosphere in the classroom had started to turn grim as not a single one had passed. Those who were excited at first were now sweating and fearing for their turn. Every year over 100,000 students are trialed. The percentage of students who qualify to be a Sorcerer was 34.8% ten years ago. But after that, the percentage kept decreasing, and last year it declined to 0.13%. "James Zyler." The student who was called this time was exceptionally calm. James stood up and walked near the crystal ball. He took his left arm out of his pocket and placed his palm above the crystal ball. The examiner noticed that James's deep-blue eyes had no sign of anxiety or excitement. This was because James knew what the result would be. He had already experienced it once. In the last timeline, he was the sole person to pass out of the entire Continent and had awakened an <SSS+ Rank> which instantly made him one of the most popular Sorcerers even on the Eco continent. But this time, the ball didn't glow. The examiner's eyes had a hint of disappointment.  "Candidate: 10003483.James Zyler.Failed" James walked back to his seat.  "Ha! Loser!" A kid who sat beside him exclaimed. "Don't worry, man. So, what if we are not gifted? We can become scientists, and if those Sorcerers or Monsters mess with us, we can nuke them!" another kid declared.  James ignored both of their comments. He did not even remember who they were or their names as it had been so long. He knew he would fail. After all, he had just traded his <SSS+ Rank> for a One-Time-Use Skill and let Velefer somehow convince him that the only way to save humanity was this way. James, however, cared little for humanity and more for himself. He went along with it because the other option was to get captured by demons and get tortured for eternity. This way, the worst-case scenario was death. James patiently remained seated and pondered his options while the other kids got tested. In his past life, Sorcerers had taken him to the Eco Continent after he had passed the test, due to which he remained secluded about the events that transpired in the Esturian Continent, but what James did know was that not long after he arrived in Eco Continent, Estirain was destroyed by a large magnitude earthquake caused by the dimensional breach torn when demons entered this realm. At least, that's what he thought until Velefer further explained what happened. "During the early 20th century, the Sorceress of Light, Ibess, had cast a Tier-8 umbrella spell that covered the entire Esturain continent, due to which the people savored a peaceful life for over a century. But this spell was not cast out of feelings of love or goodwill. The Sorcerers did not want any otherworldly being to invade the Esturain Continent, as it was abundant in mana ores. Had any species other than humans found those ores, they would have been able to overpower the Sorcerers. Thus, an agreement was made between the political leaders of the Sorcerers and the Ungifted. Mines would supply the gems extracted to the Throne City; in return, the Sorcerers would maintain and renew the spell. However, in 2025, a year before you arrived in the Eco Continent, the mines turned dry, and even the number of Sorcerers born in the Esturain Continent plummeted. In 2026, when Sorcerers brought you to the Throne City, the reasons to maintain that spell ceased to exist. Casting a tier-8 spell covering an entire continent required tremendous resources and effort. So, when the Elves invaded Eco Continent, the King of Sorcerer decided to abandon the Esturain Continent and set his sights on the Land of Elves." "Then what's the point of returning to the past? I'm going to die either way." James had asked.  "No. The king might have abandoned the humans, but the System didn't. Estirain Continent didn't end that day. Instead amidst the chaos, a monster was born." ✬✮✯ After a while, the test ended. The kid who previously called James Loser came back crying when he failed. James stood up and set his sights towards the exit door, but he got interrupted. "Hey, apparently Felix's father owns the Celestial Hotel, and he invited us for a party! Wanna go?" A kid asked whose name James didn't remember. "No thanks." James politely refused and left. After leaving the school ground, he noticed the tall buildings from the lane. Among the 35 cities within the Esturain Continent, Zirin City was one of the most developed. It bristled with skyscrapers over 500m in height. After seeing that, he imagined a scenario where all those buildings would simultaneously collapse due to the earthquakes caused by a dimensional breach. He sure was not staying here long enough to find that out. So, he navigated his way to the nearest train station. "What would be a suitable destination for someone who intends to stay out of sight from tall buildings?" James asked the beautiful booking clerk. "Ah sir, if you are a nature lover, then I recommend Strolis. It is a beautiful city near the Arkan Ocean. There are little to no tall buildings, but there are luxurious villas and private hotels." She recommended with a polite smile. James shook his head. Ocean indicated the risk of a tsunami. "A place without oceans, lakes, and skyscrapers." "Umm," The clerk tilted her head, "Then what about, Lipon Mountains. It's a--" James interrupted. "A place without oceans, lakes, skyscrapers, and mountains." Mountains meant the risk of landslides. "Eh! No mountains?….then..umm...I really cannot remember any tourist destination without-Ah! There is one place. The Ledein forset lies in the edge of Ledin City, it's very far from an ocean, but does have some rivers." she explained. "And buildings?" James asked.   "None," she replied. "Although temporary shelters and mines were built when a small mana ore was discovered there but since it ran dry a few years ago, it has been empty." "Fine, book me a seat." James used his credit card to pay. The ticket was expensive, but that didn't matter right now. ✬✮✯ "Hi! I'm Emma Winter. My friends call me Emmy." James felt the gaze of a youngster on his face. He sighed. The girl who sat beside him in the train seat seemed vexatious. She also had long alluring black hair, which suited her deep-blue eyes and made her a pleasant sight for eyes.  "Umm. Hi! I'm Emma Winter, my friends"–James interrupted – "I heard you the first time." "..then shouldn't you introduce yourself? Also, which class were you in?" Emma wore the same blazer as James, meaning they went to the same high school. "I have got a headache. So, do you mind?" James said, hoping that would silence her. There was a lot in his mind right now. Firstly, in this timeline, his parents were alive. He even had two younger brothers and one sister. But deep in his heart, he knew any effort to save them would be meaningless. After all, in his Continent, there would be only one survivor in the end. That was the condition set by the System, according to Velefer. Emma rummaged in her backpack and took out a vial with pills. "Here, this helps with headaches." She offered him a pill. James gazed at the pill for a while, "I don't have a headache." He admitted. "And my name is James. James Zyler." He realized there was no point in being self-contained or unsociable; after all, if the future was going to turn hellish anyway, why not just talk and relax until then? Also, it was a 48-hour ride. ✬✮✯ "Ledin City? But why? There is nothing but a small city and forest there. It's not a vacation destination." Emma remarked. "It's personal." "Wait! Did your parents also force you to marry after graduation, so you took the first train ticket available to hide in a remote city until your parents call and beg for you to come back and cancel the marriage?" Her eyes lit up.  "No." James winced. "Is that why you are here?" "No..." she said while avoiding eye contact. Thud! The train suddenly halted. "Aww." cried Emma. James jolted up and looked out of the window. The color of the sky had turned red. The dimensional breach was about to open. He jerked his head down and looked at his watch. It had been barely 11 hours since the tests ended. "Shit," He murmured. During the last timeline, James had passed, so the Sorcerers had to take him with them, but since they had to inform his parents, and since James had been given one day to say farewell, they left after two days. But now, James failed. So, the Sorcerers had no reason to remain in the Esturian Continent. They left and withdrew the spell. The people on the train started to murmur. "What happened?" Emma also gazed out of the window. "The ground! It's cracking!" yelled a passenger. The train had stopped in the middle of grassy land. James let out a long breath and clenched his fist. Even if it happened sooner than he expected, he was prepared. "Well," He looked towards Emma. "Although I have only known you for 11 hours, it was nice knowing you." "Eh." She let out a fake smile. "You make it sound like...we are about to die." "We will." James smiled. "The train will now explode." Boom! The train did explode. One by one, successively, each compartment exploded, and everyone inside burnt to death. ✬✮✯ James grabbed his nape and cracked his neck. Dying was not a pleasant feeling. He then scouted his eyes, the ground was made up of white stones, and golden pillars stood tall, forming a lane. He had been here before, so he strolled ahead until he met her. "We meet again, Asheal," greeted James. "Or wait, was it Eshel? I forget. After all, we have met only a couple of hundred times." "It's Asheal." Her eyes opened as she replied in a melodious voice, revealing her bright golden eyes. Her wings were long and elegant, and the golden gown which brought out her white hair gave her an angelic look. She stood inside a transparent golden dome inside which James could not enter.  "James. You let Velefer talk you into traveling through the River of Time." Her eyes narrowed. "That was unwise." "So, you would have preferred if I became an Immortal?" James asked solemnly. "Yes." Her eyes looked down. “Trusting Velefer is unwise.” "Why?" he asked. "…..I cannot reveal that." She met his gaze.  James chuckled. "Even in the past, and even right now, you say it's the right thing to do, but do not reveal why and expect me to be a blind puppet." "A puppet in the hands of God is better off than a puppet who believes himself to be free while dancing in the palm of the Devil." The tone of her voice changed.   "Well he told me I would arrive here, and here I'm. The last time I trusted you, I found myself in the depths of hell. Literally." He tilted his head. "And I do not believe myself to be free. Nor do I consider the decision I made to be right or wrong. Truth is, I know I'm ignorant. But who isn't? You make decisions, you face the consequences, you learn." "Consequences?" Her fingers clenched. "Do you realize the fate suffered by the one who survived this continent during the last breach?" "Yes." James shrugged. "If I die, I die. If I suffer, I suffer. I am prepared. Oh, and you do not have to explain the trials to me. I understand it must be difficult to handle all other humans who barely comprehend that they just died and are about to be revived again, only to die once more by my hands."  "You're making a mistake." she insisted.  "Even if I did, what other option do I have now?" He smiled. "Actually, there is one. The set rules dictate those worthy enough to be revived, and I meet all the requirements. But you could change that. You could deem me unworthy." She flinched. "You would get wiped out of existence."  "I would." he continued. "But you said I made a mistake. That would mean I would suffer and regret my decision. So, why not put me out of my misery? Why not let me rest?" She remained silent.  "..I cannot do that. Goodbye, James." Her eyes closed. "I only hope the next time we meet, you are not broken." ✬✮✯ Fire and smoke engulfed the surrounding around the train remains. Many pits and cracks had formed in the land, but a golden spark illuminated among the smoke. Soon his figure manifested, exactly like it was before getting burnt. In his school dress, he stood tall with his deep-blue eyes and black hair. He'd been revived.  〚Revival Completed.〛 〚You Have Been Deemed Worthy By The Angel Of Life, Asheal, To Take Part In The Estirain Trials.〛 〚Trial One: Be The Sole Survivor Among The Revived〛 〚Number Of People Revived: 200.〛 〚Number Of Kills Required To Pass: 50〛 IsaacSAlbert Some Tags Explanation:Evolution/Nonhuman Lead: Would start to make sense around chapters 3-5. The synopsis would also start to make sense around later chapters   Thanks for Reading!

"Fuck....Fuck...Fuck..Fuck.., God are you trying to fuck me over? I was suppose to reincarnate into a body of a MC!" Hydro cursed and screamed at the top of his lungs towards the solid wood in front of him, shocked at his current predicament. .. . Almost like a response from the heavens, he heard the creaks of footsteps pushing down on oak stairs, the intensity of the creaks gradually got louder as the person came closer in contact with Hydro. And out of the brim light peaking through the narrow hallway, a big-boned person stepped in front, blocking the obstructive light. The said person had huge muscles and calves, similarly to his appearance, the man's attitude was a stern on. "Oye! Kid, Get up and get to work, or you need some motivation," the man said hinting towards his clenched fist. "What fucking badluck, not only was I reincarnated into a chore boy's body, now I got a muscle brain after me," Hydro thought, cursing his obscure luck. But unlike Hydro's thoughts, he decided to follow the man's order.  Like almost any reincarnation, Hydro inherited the memories of the previous body's user's memories. The boy was barely 15 years old, forced to do unpaid labour as a result of getting caught by some pirates - called black eye. In the beginning, the boy wanted to free himself of his predicament, but soon gave up on his dreams as a result of getting caught multiple times in the act. The boy ended up losing his goals followed by his will to live, causing his spirit and mind to spiritually die out. Hydro, who on Earth died to the infamous truck-kun, whilst trying to do the cliche saving-the-maiden in distress act, too died at the same time. As a result the two souls interexchanged places, or so Hydro thought. ALSO HE WAS IN THE FUCKING WORLD OF ONE PIECE!!! Hydro turned a evil grin realising this fact. ... . Thus, Hydro knew it's best not to anger the brawn man in front of his eyes, also the beating he saw in his memories looked quite soothing to a torture fanatic. Although he was fuming at the torture his 'current' body recieved, he still couldn't act upon his desires. The brawny man in front of his worn out eyes, was still far superior than Hydro in both power and skill... A person with a 10 million bounty on his head was still far superior than an average human. Unluckily, Hydro was a part of that illfortunate category. The brawny man turned a sour face as soon as he saw Hydro abiding by his complaint. He had grown rather comfortable and and almost found it enjoyable, beating Hydro black and blue. Afterwards, the man turned his back towards Hydro's annoyed face and walkes out of that shit hole, Hydro was given as a bedroom. He clicked his tongue whilst leaving, annoyed not getting the opportunity to quench his fist's 'needs', and even thought of beating up Hydro just because he turned an annoyed face towards him. But soon pushed away his fetishes as he heard the captain calling him. Hydro opened his eyes as much as he could, still bruised from the beating his body recieved prior to his reincarnation. He widened his gaze towards his so-called 'bedroom' - the wooden underground cabinet was filled with more than just a rag as Hydro's bed, it was brimmed up with the ship's unused tools and even Hydro's feaces, as a result the cabinet literally smelled lime shit. The previous user wasn't allowed to use the ship's uniform toilet and forced to take a dump in his cabinet which he emptied out once a week. "I pity this boy" Hydro continued to follow the man's order's, cleaning up the shitty ship, the last thing he wants is another pain marking on his body. As Hydro walked up the solid stairs, hanging onto the sidewalls as support, he was filled up with hope and survival instincts. "Brawk, get ready! We are about to charge into a battle with the fucking marines again," the captain screamed, hoping to lead his crewmembers into a successful battle. And almost instinctively, all the crewmembers - ranging from scrawny to built - picked up their weapon of choice. Most picked up a sword but some chose an axe as their preferred weapon. Hydro felt conflicted, should he be happy that this accursed ship was being attacked? or angered at the arrival of another problem? He couldn't choose. After a battle of conflicted thoughts Hydro ended up smiling, "I can escape this ship while the crewmembers are busy with the battle," Hydro turnt a bright eye towards his future. .. . The ship got barraged with consecutive cannon fires till eventually both the pirate and marine ship got into physical fighting range. A loud battle cry could be heard from both sides, "Die! you filthy pirates!," "You filthy marines, today is the last day you breathe human air!," both parties screamed at eachother. Hydro waited till the marines got into the ship, keeping the scumbag pirates at bay and also providing him a chance to escape. Hydro was deadset on escaping, he was ready to lose a limb in the act if necessary. He filled with excitement and joy. The previous owner of the body failed consecutively at his escape attempts mainly because he was ill-prepared, he intended to escape during bad moments and hence was caught. Hydro on the other hand was smart and used this opportunity as a escape plan. Support me on patreon @Strawaloon

Lilly Rohrbach had been in this bunker since she was around 17 years of age. Ever since the fall of Berlin and the mad dash to New Swabia left the young woman separated from her family who were high ranking members of the party. The children of the bunker had been there since they were born, some as old as 15. Lilly knew the wonders of the outside world, knew that outside of New Swabia, there were fields of endless dancing flowers, gentle winds and farms which reached far beyond the horizon. The children in the Adler Youth did not know of this, all they had known was Standartenfuhrer Manfred Adler and his 5th SS-Arktikgrenadier Regiment. Lilly's job in Ritscherberg was to teach the young ones about how gorgeous life in Germany was before the Americans and Soviet's had taken it over, destroyed it and the German people. Did she really believe what she was told to say? No, not particularly.. it sounded fake to her despite she herself growing up within the party. Something about Adler seemed wrong, he didn't seem to just be your "average" SS regimental commander.. She sighed and stood up from her desk, gathering her things and soon leaving the classroom into the hallways. Green and red carpet that always felt moist squashed beneath her feet, wood paneling rose from floor to ceiling and steel panels secured the top. Lilly shivered as she began her journey to the barracks, hanging right after she left the classroom. Normally, the SS was not allowed inside the civilian sectors of the bunker, but apparently today the rules were broken. A blindfolded and handcuffed man flailed, both his arms being held by two large SS arctic grenadiers, fully clad in armor.   "I DID NOTHING! NOTHING! LET ME GO! I'M INNOCENT!" Screamed the catatonic man. Lilly noticed as she flattened herself against the wall to let them march by her that the man was extremely thin to the point he looked starved half to death. Her blood ran cold when one of the arctic grenadiers looked her dead in the eyes, pure darkness stared back at her through dark spheres, face colored as soot with combat paint. The feeling didn't go away, even after her skirt stopped swaying from the force of the grenadiers marching. With ice running through her veins, Lilly quickened her pace only to be met face first with the man himself: Standartenfuhrer Adler. Adler had a fox like face, dark brown hair and bright green eyes, almost as pale as a late falls grass clippings. He smiled at Lilly.   "Good evening, Miss Rohrbach. I was coming to talk to you about something, but it seems you came to me. Come with me." Adler turned on his heel and Lilly trotted after, her blood slowly thawing as she walked. While he was not particularly large, Adler was tall and had broad shoulders which filled his uniform more than the lankier officers in the SS and Heer. Food was scarce to come by, strict rationing meant everyone ate the exact same thing, but everyone knew that the SS got more food than everyone to keep their minds and bodies in peak condition in order to retain a high level of readiness to respond to any threat. Lilly touched her stomach at the thought of food, lightly squeezing the little bit of puppy fat she had. Lilly was grateful that she had gotten one and a half rations in the hope she would become a mother soon. Adler had other plans for Lilly that did not involve motherhood and he made them clear when they reached an elevator.   "Don't worry about our loud friend who passed you in the hallway. He is mentally deranged." Adler noted, pressing the button for the 31st floor. "Now that we are in private, I have noticed your devotion to the party since you have arrived after the fall. And since you do not seem to be fond of motherhood, have performed excellently in your previous BDM shooting scores, I will offer you a position. A Sturmman has recently come down with an unknown illness and has perished as a result, you will be taking over his position. His quarters are yours too, as well as the usual benefits of the Schutzstaffel. Your things will be brought down eventually. When we get to the 31st floor, I will take you to the Quartermaster and Armorer to get your gear fitted and issued." Adler had finally stopped talking, allowing Lilly a response.   "Herr Adler.. the Waffen-SS?" Lilly played with one of her two golden braids, bouncing it up and down in her hand. "I am honored." Lilly did not speak her mind, instead she was cut off by the thunk of the elevator and Adler rapidly exiting, turning left. Lilly followed on his left side. The space was ample, the corridors large. To the right through a wide window, Haunebu saucers spread out across a wide, rectangular hangar, ME262s of all kinds lined the sides. Were they readying for a deployment? Hangar doors were open, but Adler did not seem concerned. Was it really true that the arctic grenadiers went out all the time? They were not just rumors? Lilly had stopped to gawk at the magnificence of the organized chaos, bombs and rockets were loaded to the bottoms of ME262s and the Haunebu saucers loaded with ammunition and men. An orchestra of noise came through a door which had opened a stairway level below them. Banging, shouting and grinding were just a few of the noises which were heard before Adler put a hand on her shoulder, yanking her away from the window.   "Ack!-" Lilly exclaimed, trailing behind Adler once more as white armored arctic grenadiers clamored down stairs to open a door to get into the hangar. This was just one small section of the 31st floor according to a map she briefly saw. The Quartermaster's office was large, gigantic even. Gear lined walls but she had no chance to see any of it before she was yanked yet again into a small fitting room with two men in slacks and work shirts. Their frigid hands poked her, prodded her and took measurements. They noted to themselves she was small and would need a smaller uniform than most men did. Before she knew it, she was in the nude and had a pair of issued underwear thrown at her face. Standing there now in just that underwear, bare armor without any paint on it was fitted to her body with leather straps. It seems that the fitters were pleased with how the armor fit her and turned away. It was now when she realized Adler was nowhere to be found and the room was extraordinarily cold.   "Your tags." One of the men said, thrusting a pair of dog tags into Lilly's hands and then a uniform. Then, they were gone. Once the uniform was on, Lilly looked at the mirror on the wall. A field gray t-shirt and snow white pants. It seems that they had forgotten an overshirt, perhaps it was given to her later?   "ACK!" Adler had opened the door and tugged on her arm, causing her to fumble out of the room. The two men from before were busy at work putting together the rest of her kit. An STG-47, the latest in military technology, was sitting on the table next to them. It was a heavy looking firearm painted snow white, wrapped in a black netting and worn looking. Lilly walked over to the armorers and watched them as they worked, sizing out gear and collecting every single piece of kit, stuffing clothing into a duffel bag and equipment on a hangar along with armor. Sticking her name on it, the shorter of the two ran it out and the taller handed her the duffel bag. Both were almost silent the whole time, but the tall one whispered.   "Good luck." before he disappeared into the tiny room and Adler reappeared.   "Welcome to the 31st Floor, Sturmman. Time to go to your quarters." Everything moved so fast for Lilly, now holding a 40 pound duffel bag. Her pace was slower than before as the two twisted through corridors. The corridors opened into a large room, stairs on either side as rooms extended to the ceilings which were some 30 feet high, rooms stacked four high. Adler smirked, he seemed to be enjoying confusing Lilly. Continuing all the way down to the end of the room, the duo went up a single flight of stairs to the first room on the far left. Peaking in through various open doors, she noticed filth and messiness, bedsheets on the floor and clothes strewn about. A pleasant surprise was in front of her after Adler opened the door. Clean, crisp sheets, no dust and nothing on the floor. A medal shadowbox stood on the dresser. The room itself was spacious for a one person room in a bunker, she could lean left and right and not hit the walls with her fingertips, a dresser, single wide bed and footlocker. A folder sat on the bed with a key on top.   "I trust you'll find these accommodations acceptable. Dinner is in three hours. Look in the folder after I depart." Lilly's head turned to Adler who once again had that sly, fox-like smile on his face. Lilly brought herself to attention and brought her fist to her chest, exclaiming "Heil Adler!" Adler was pleased and got far too close to Lilly, bringing a chocolate bar out from his pocket and handing it to her. It too was freezing to the touch, just like Adler's skin. Lilly's blood ran cold when she got a good look at his face small, dark red and ragged scars were apparent underneath his eyes. Turning away, he left the room and down the stairs. Lilly was left in the dead mans room, left to inspect what this soldier had left behind for her.

Prologue. I was the weakest of the sixteen demon lords in my homeworld. My jurisdiction was within the Land of the South, the Southern Continent, one of the four major landmasses. It was within my jurisdiction that any summoned hero’s journey first began. The four great lands were divided into eight kingdoms. Four of the kingdoms in each continent belonged to demonkind while the others belonged to humans we were in unending war with. I governed over one of such kingdoms, though like me, it was the weakest. I wasn’t any sort of big player in the grand scheme of things, but I was still a Demon Lord who reported directly to the Southern Demon Emperor. Sadly, I was the biggest joke among my fellow Demon Lord peers. One day, while I was peacefully minding my own business in my castle, someone rudely called out to me from outside my castle. When I heard what they said, I was initially unsure whether I was just hearing things, but when they repeated themselves, I was immediately enraged. They’d uttered one forbidden name I could never forgive. I valiantly fought them to the death, but I was no match and was inevitably crushed underfoot. I was abducted by the vile sadistic woman who I’d fought then brought to the greatest evil to ever walk the land.  I often referred to him as ‘he whose name shall not be spoken.’ He was a man I’d never be able to coexist with. My mortal enemy for life. When I thought all hope was lost and my life would be forfeit, that man made me an unexpected offer. It was an offer I couldn’t resist. Even now I still don’t fully understand the intent behind his offer, I just grit my teeth and go along with it. I’d already signed a contract with the devil, there was no going back for me. In exchange for accepting his offer, he let me keep the legendary growth-type dragon slayer sword one of my captors bribed me with to cooperate with them. He even bestowed upon me the ability to travel to other worlds to slay dragons to increase my own strength and also gifted me a legendary hero staying sword as a bonus. Thus with these two things at my disposal, I departed on a long journey. A journey of self-redemption. To rise through the ranks of Demon Lords and claim the prize I’d set my sights on. My end goal wasn’t anything overly complicated. Far from it in fact, it was quite a simple goal. Everything was to become strong enough to court Demon Lord Kat, the strongest of the sixteen Demon Lords said to be on par with the strongest Demon Emperor. The most mysterious of the sixteen Demon Lords, Demon Lord Kat, with the power of a Demon Emperor… her identity was none other than… a shapeshifting cat girl. As for me, I am but a humble death knight. Demon Lord Xander, a simplistic man who dreams of nothing more than a shapeshifting cat girl who’s out of his league.