This is based on reality, but all the names are not the actual names of the people.

The world is vast. There are countless Great Heroes, Great Villains, Great Experts, Great Emperors, and maybe Great Gods too.

When normal not-so-great people look at these figures, most want to become one! But not everyone ends up becoming one. The road is long and filled with hardship. Luck and talent alone might not carry them all the way. 

One does not become a Great-Whatever by simply wanting to be one, and no one becomes one instantly. Only through endless striving while holding an unshakeable resolve can one succeed. 

Come and follow the journey of one normal young man as he walks the path to become a great someone, someday, starting today.

Ye Futian stood firmly and shook his head. "It's nothing."
He looked up, and his gaze fell upon the stone stele. Once he received the will of this Thousand Proverb Stele, he would be able to form proverbs of pure will and integrate them into his sword.
When he did that, it would be much stronger than if he was relying on his own spiritual willpower.
If he could fully understand it, then he could store his own will inside the thousand proverbs. Once he released it, would it burst forth with a power far beyond his own spiritual willpower?
This time, he intended to visualize all of the thousand proverbs directly, but he could not withstand such a high-level endeavor.
It looked like he would have to go a little bit slower.
He walked forward. There were many people around him.
Xiang Ze was in front of him. He squinted at Ye Futian, then averted his gaze. He looked back at the huge stone stele and whispered, "You should not be doing this."
He was currently a celebrated figure in the Crimson Dragon Realm. He had been named lord of Qianye City, and his name echoed throughout the realm. He had even killed a Nirvana level figure from Emperor Xiang's Realm.
He had made Xiang Nan have to leave the Crimson Dragon Realm and return to Emperor Xiang's Realm to ask for help, and made him cross over a vast distance to see what was going on. Even given Ye Futian's previous performance, he had not been able to see his true power. But the fact that he was able to obtain the Magic Zither proved that he was brave and mighty.
From what he could see, Ye Futian would be a thorny opponent indeed.
And the previous scene had been slightly different than he imagined it would be.
Ye Futian looked at Xiang Ze. He smiled but did not respond. Instead, he continued walking towards the huge stone stele.
The ancient words on the stone stele were mysterious and intriguing, and contained fantastic rule power.
Ye Futian's spiritual will entered it once again, but this time, he did not receive the will of the words; he only saw the endless characters that they were made up of.
"Is this a matrix of the Great Path?" Ye Futian wondered. Renhuang had probably carved the Thousand Word Proverbs on the stone stele.
A Renhuang level figure had carved the stele, and now the power of the Great Path was contained within its characters.
It seemed that every character contained a powerful will.
There seemed to be some similarity between this and the Sword of Kasypya.
But what was different was that he had formed the Revolution of the Great Path rule power out of the ancient words. It was extremely frightening.
Ye Futian perceived the Thousand Word Proverbs and tried to form a Sword of Kasypya. One of the swords did form inside his life palace. Ye Futian felt its will and frowned slightly.
Something was wrong.
The will that this character contained seemed ordinary, not extraordinary. It seemed kind of like the three brothers' Nine Seals of Spiritual Power.
But it was a little bit different. Every single ancient character had a special mark on it that could attract will.
Thinking of this, Ye Futian did not try and perceive each of the ten thousand words. He just perceived one among them.
Renhuang had created the Thousand Word Proverbs. When someone reached the Renhuang level, they had already proven themselves before the Great Path and transcended.
The Dao begets the heavens, the earth, and all things.
In the space of a single thought, the Dao of all things could make a full revolution.
The union of humans and Dao created unlimited vitality and endless potential, as vast as the world and as bright as the sun and moon.
Since Renhuang had created them, these Thousand Word Proverbs contained true will within them.
Since they contained endless potential, these ancient characters were suitable for any law power.
Ye Futian was completely lost in self-perception, and he forgot everything in the outside world. He was immersed in the Thousand Character Proverb stele.
Many powerful figures were standing in front of the stele as well, cultivating and perceiving it.
All of them had different understandings of it.
Below the place where the Peach Banquet was taking place, everyone was gazing up at them.
And many eyes were watching from Divine Mountain as well.
Half a day was too short a time, especially when trying to perceive a thousand character proverb. It was impossible to get all the details of it.
Everything that had been created by Renhuang had been done so through the Great Path. Even the things that he had created so easily would be difficult for even a Nirvana level cultivator to create.
However, the people at the Peach Banquet were all top figures. Even if they could not understand all the will within it, they could still comprehend a lot of it.
But they did not know who among them could understand the most.
Those who had received a Peach Invitation naturally attracted a lot of attention.
"Luo Yang, Jiang Tai'e, and Yu Shifei are the most outstanding talents of Crimson Dragon City. I wonder what kind of performance they will give at the Peach Banquet," said an old man on Divine Mountain he looked out at the stone stele.
He saw that a fiery mark appeared before Luo Yang that radiating brilliant light.
On the other side of the banquet, there was an incredibly powerful swordsman's aura.
It was Pei Min.
Ancient characters in the form of swords formed around him. They looked like they were sword marks. An ear-splitting noise came out of the air as terrifying sword will roared.
Pei Min was even able to control the sword marks flowing around him. It seemed like he was trying to simulate the Great Path rule power of the Thousand Word Proverbs.
A terrible halo appeared in front of Xing Kai. The will of Great Path was within it, and it was extremely overbearing. The halo seemed to be filled with destructive power.
Everyone was trying to work as hard as they could to perceive the stele and use it in their cultivation.
They knew that they could not completely perceive the Thousand Word Proverbs in such a short amount of time, but as long as they could perceive more than anyone else, they could take it with them and work on slowly understanding it. That would be equivalent to Renhuang level combat magic.
Moreover, it could make any of their law powers much stronger.
Chi Shang was sitting there satisfied. He was the only one drinking. All the figures in front of the stele were standing or sitting on mats on the ground. The will that was forming around them was growing stronger.
As time went on, the will of the Great Path flowed between heaven and earth, whistling without end.
He took a sip of wine and looked at Ye Futian, the one who had gotten the Magic Zither. He saw that he was the one who was moving the least. In fact, he was not moving at all.
This made him a little suspicious. Was this guy even still perceiving?
Could it be that he was not interested in the Thousand Character Proverbs at all?
Beside Ye Futian, many different wills had formed around Xia Qingyuan, Ye Wuchen, and the others. They were obviously all still perceiving.
He shifted his gaze and looked back at Yu Shifei. A look of warmth came into his eyes.
Without anyone realizing it, half a day passed. Chi Shang smiled and said, "Time is up, everyone."
Everyone still seemed to be immersed in the stone stele, but when they heard Chi Shang's voice, they gradually came out of their cultivation postures.
Woosh!
There was a loud noise as the Thousand Word Proverb stele flew away. Everyone returned unhappily to their original places.
It seemed like everything had returned to how it was at the start.
"Anyone interested in the Thousand Word Proverb stele may 'exchange views.' However, we are only looking at how much of the Thousand Word Proverb you have perceived, so this is just a simple 'exchange,' not a true battle. You may only make simple attacks through the power of the Thousand Word Proverb stele. Moreover, if a Saint of True Self faces a Doctrine Saint, you must control your strength, and keep it to the level of a Doctrine Saint," said Chi Shang. "Only this way can we truly test how well you have understood the Thousand Word Proverb."
Everyone was silent as they looked at each other.
Chi Shang watched this scene with a smile. "Everyone here can participate."
He was naturally referring to those that the guests had brought with them, the ones who had not received Peach Invitations.
But the ones who had received Peach Invitations were the most outstanding figures. It would be impossible for someone to be more outstanding than them.
The one who finally won the Thousand Word Prover stele would be one of the ones who had received a Peach Invitation.
Him letting the others participate was just for his amusement.
After all, the Peach Banquet was just a banquet, so there were no rigid rules.
Here you could see some of the most powerful figures in the Crimson Dragon Realm of this generation.
At that moment, a figure strode forward from behind Xing Kai.
This person was officially the Saint King of Gai's younger brother Hua Ye. Even though he had not received a Peach Invitation, he was still one of the top talents of the Crimson Dragon Realm. It was just that compared to the heroes who had gathered here, like Xing Kai, that he came up a bit short.
Who would be the worst among these people like Hua Ye and Xia Qingyuan?
Hua Ye looked over at Ye Futian. He had come from the Ancient Imperial City. He wanted to see just how powerful Ye Futian truly was.
His teacher was the Saint King of Gai, one of the top figures of the Crimson Dragon Realm. He was naturally incredibly proud. The only one that he was willing to follow was Xing Kai.
"I hope to find out just how much Lord Ye has understood," said Hua Ye. He had been perceiving the stele for half a day, so he could use it in his attacks.
He wanted to know whether Ye Futian would be able to withstand his attacks.
Everyone from Qianye City looked at him. Ye Futian was just about to go over there when another figure stepped forward.
He was dressed all in white. His hair was tied back, and he wore a feathered crown on his head. He strode forward, looked at Hua Ye and said, "You did not receive a Peach Invitation, you just came here with Xing Kai, and yet you directly challenge someone who did receive a Peach Invitation. First, you must prove that you are worthy."
Hua Ye swept his gaze over the man. He did not recognize him.
Other than Ye Futian and Yu Sheng, who were both very famous, Princess Xia Qingyuan of Emperor Xia's Realm was the only other person from Qianye City who was well known.
"Who are you?" asked Hua Ye. He looked a little bit indifferent.
His teacher was the Saint King of Gai, and he was famous throughout the Ancient Imperial City. He was an outstanding talent. How could someone who had come along from Qianye City compare with him?
"I am Gu Dongliu of Qianye City." The white-robed figure continued forward. The two of them came to the empty space in the middle of the banquet hall, but they did not stop. They continued forward.
Hua Ye stepped forward with a cold expression. He had been perceiving for half a day and had formed some Thousand Word Proverb law power for his attacks. He only had enough for one, and he had hoped to use it on Ye Futian. He wanted to see how strong the Lord of Qianye City was.
But some unknown person from Qianye City had challenged him.
This was most displeasing.
However, if Gu Dongliu wanted to take this attack in Ye Futian's place, he would have to give it to him.
"I hope you can bear it," said Hua Ye. As he went forward, a powerful spatial storm swept up from his body.
Brilliant spatial law seals floated around him. He lifted his arms slightly as if he could launch his attack at any moment.
Gu Dongliu did not stop either but continued forward. Ancient characters formed all around him suddenly. They were ancient characters of the Great Path and they resonated with heaven and earth. There was a hint of the will of the Thousand Word Proverb within them. This made many people look on with surprise.
Divine light was shining from Gu Dongliu as well, making the will of the Great Path flow wildly through the ancient characters. His aura was getting stronger and stronger!


In a time when the Divine Prefectures of the East Sea were in great disarray, Emperor Ye Qing and Donghuang the Great appeared to save the day. Under their rule, the prefectures united and all nations as well as  their kings have been controlled. However, the legend of these two great heroes becomes altered when Emperor Ye Qing's name is wiped from the history books after his sudden death. All statues and images of him were destroyed and his name a taboo. Only the legend of Donghuang the Great shall live on.                            

Fifteen years later, a young man by the name of Ye Futian begins his journey in search for his true identity. The legend of Futian was going to be one for the history books.

"Grandfather, I'm perfectly normal, really," I assured him.

Well, what exactly that meant was open for interpretations.

"Alright then, it's not that I care that much," he said, "if there's anything you need, do not hesitate to ask me now, I'll fulfill that wish of yours. I'm currently in a spectacular mood."

"Hmm," I rolled my eyes around, "there is in fact something you could do for me."

"What is it," he put the letter he was writing away, focusing his attention to me.

"Do you know what Alterea is?"

He was a bit surprised by my question, "Alterea?" He mumbled, "that is something I haven't heard in a long time. It's what we simply refer to as magic nowadays."

Tsk, Seraph, did you trick me again? You said I should call it Alterea.

"Then magic, please explain magic to me."

He twirled the pen around his hands, maybe it was a habit. "From the beginning, or should I skip the basics," he asked.

"Pretend like I'm a person that has never heard of magic before."

"Are you sure that is what you want? I could give you money, protection and more," he was perplexed, "you just want to ask a simple question?"

"Yes, I am certain."

"I understand," he stood up, "follow me. Vera, feel free to join, if you want to."

The maids body stiffened, "are you certain? It would be an honor to have the Duke advise me."

"I don't mind if it's a simple thing like that," he walked towards a door and opened it. The door wasn't the wooden door through which we came in. This time it was a rustic door right behind the desk, in the corner hidden by the shadows.

As soon as he opened it, a bright light illuminated the room, causing me to flinch. The door led to the outside, revealing a garden. The garden was still encased within the house, as there were stone walls on all four sides, but that did not undermine it's beauty— no, they even emphasized it.
The place was large and shady. I never saw a place quite like this. A lot of bushes gave life to many old-fashioned flowers, and unruly trees tried to branch out of this little cage, giving me the feeling of walking into a wonderland.
More than anything, it was the sunshine that would periodically bless the colorful nature, making the whole picturesque scene bind together.

He walked on a stone path and said, "do you like this garden? Only the top branch is allowed to enter this garden. I will make a exception for you. Feel free to enter whenever you see fit."

I naturally followed him, with Vera trailing right behind, "it's not to shabby."

"The fresh air cleanses your mind, perfect for the time you need to relax," he stopped in front of a small field, "and there is a great place to release pent up energy. Take a seat, I will explain to you what exactly magic is."

Vera swiftly placed a blanket on the grass, where she got that from, I have no idea. The maid waited for me to take a seat first, before she sat down as well, in a seiza position.

My grandfather began narrating, "usually a child would only start learning magic at the age of 16, as they wouldn't be able to handle the implications," he paused, "but I believe that you have enough potential for us to start now."

On what basis did he reach such a conclusion? I mean, it was nice that he was so trusting, but I might disappoint him, as I originally was not from a world with magic.

"I will start with an introduction," he then asked, "do you know what a proverb is?"

I tilted my head, unable to understand the meaning behind the question, but answered anyways, "something like 'haste makes waste' or 'fortune favors the bold', something like that?"

"Uh, I never really heard of them, but that's about right," he nodded, "have you ever thought were they come from?"

"Ehm, I guess from a variety of sources. Some may be from poetry, fables or songs, others from people pondering about life and condensing them into bite sized wisdoms."

"Correct, those proverbs are a form of self-reflection. It is what an individual has gained by countless different epiphanies and teachings. And ever so rarely, it is trough their own hardships, that they stumble upon one," he talked, "these proverbs craft the world from the perspective of their makers, and are akin to little promises. They show you the way of living and guide you."

I leaned back and supported myself with my hands, "well, I never thought too deeply about them, so I wouldn't know," I said nonchalantly.

"But you should. These proverbs, they exist to outline ones life and hidden within them are many layers of philosophy. Questions such as, what is life? How do I live it? Where do I go? All these questions that we try to unravel is within a single proverb." 
He then lifted his hand, "you take that proverb, you live with it, let it shape your lifestyle," he talked faster and faster, as if spurred by something, "every step you take is for the sole purpose of uncovering the meaning behind it. You find your own interpretation, write your own analysis and someday, it evolves. It changes."
His hands began glowing a bright yellow, "it no longer is a simple sentence, but a way you live your life. You uncover the meaning and the underlying philosophy behind them," the trees began rustling, and petals fell of the flowers. A strong wind had gathered, disheveling my hair, "and then you realize that you can use magic."

It was like a storm was brewing. Clouds gathered above us, as if the sunshine before was just a mirage. Birds desperately flew away, seeking shelter. Vera grabbed my shoulders, protecting me from the gust, while I clung to her, in fear that she might be blown away.
My grandfather stretched his arm out, pointing towards a green bush and I heard the sky rumble.
An unbelievable sight soon followed. Electric arcs assembled within the gloomy clouds. A blue bolt formed and golden lightning split the clouds apart, striking the bush, which then was set on fire. The bush did not burn away, though. Without adhering to the principles of mass conversion it stayed aflame. Soon after, the surroundings began to change. Flowers began to bloom, the clouds parted and the trees grew another size. Light returned, shining upon the garden, which was now more beautiful than ever. Only then, did the bush extinguish it's flames, turning into nothing more than ash.

"If you take a proverb and learn the meaning behind it, you too will gain an ability. I follow the idea of 'burning but not consuming', which for me meant to fall, but never perish, in the face of adversity. And to take, but never destroy. See my ability, <the burning bush>, as the name suggest upon burning a bush, a miracle will soon follow, every time I activate my magic."

"Wait a moment," I raised my hand to interject, "is that it?"

"Yes, a lightning strike sets bushes aflame. The mircacles are also random, but will always be what benefits me the most."

"Uhh," I was dumbfounded, "that is a peculiar ability."

"Most magic is like that, as they are based on your way of life. A person who believes in living life to their limits, might gain the magic to stretch out time, while a person who believes in virtue gained the magic of blessings. It is mysterious like that."

I crossed my arms and raised an eyebrow, "if that is all it took, why is magic not more widespread?"

"The reason for that is because there cannot be a single doubt in your beliefs. Many people like to think they follow certain rules. But not a lot can truly follow their principles when stuck in a corner. If you ever betray your ideals, you will not be able to wield magic," he sat down, "which is also why most magicians are nobles, because unlike peasants who need to tend their fields and family, we can devote our time in fortifying our mind and ideals."

Alright, I felt like I finally understood what magic entails. I didn't know why magic worked, but I understood the principles behind it.
Although Seraph and my grandfathers explanation had their differences, the core essence was the same.
Magic was based on life. On philosophy. I got it now.
A person who really followed their way of living would soon find magic suitable for them. That is also why Seraph said, it didn't matter if I imitate her, as I did not understand her beliefs, I did not follow her sentiments. 

It was a vey mystifying concept. 

Seraph said, philosophy is searching for the truth. The closer you were to the truth, the better your magic was. Consequently, magic should be based on philosophies. 
But my grandpa did not mention anything like that. Instead he kept speaking about proverbs. 
In essence, proverbs are a form of philosophy too, but the fundamental difference laid in the fact that proverbs take small parts of grand philosophical theories and are made for those not well versed in the topic to understand.

I wonder who was right.

I tried finding out by asking, "why do we take a proverb, can't we just directly follow the philosophy in our minds?"

"Eh, I guess in theory you could, but reality is often unforgiving," he scratched his head, "to find a proverb that suits you is already hard enough. The longer it is, the more you have to remember, thus having even more rules that bound you. And they cannot contradict each other either. A whole philosophy had too many interpretations, too many complexities, to take them all in is ludicrous. Not even a dream within a dream. I urge you to stick with these proverbs which take small aspects out of these giant cobwebs called 'philosophy'."

"Then how would you wield more than one spell?"

"Agnes you really ask hard questions. Wielding more than one spell would make you a genius amongst geniuses. You shouldn't think in that direction. Even if it was you that we are talking about."

Huh, but if I remembered correctly, Seraph could use more than one. She once healed me, and she created Gerald. I'm sure that they were different spells. I'm also sure that two spells weren't her limits.
Really, what was that girl? Or was it that my grandfather was more useless than I thought.

"Agnes, I can already see what you are thinking," Vera suddenly chimed in, "believe it or not, your grandfather is one of the top magicians in this country, just behind the king."

"Vera, stop that. The king possesses far more power than me. He is the greatest magician in our country. You comparing him to me is actually quite embarrassing," he then stared at me, "but Agnes, she is right, you set your ambitions too high. It would be already impressive if you found your magic after a year of learning."

Alright I understood completely. Seraph's crazy. Yep, she's a weirdo.

I continued, "if I may, you are a powerful magician, but what defines that?"

"That's a good question. Unlike what many believe, it's not about how destructive it is. There the are all kinds of aspects, such as how profund your starting proverb is, how deep you developed it, and how well you live it. All these aspects make your magic stronger. They gain more influence, a bigger area, and most importantly alter the world in an unimaginable degree," he then stared into the distance, his eyes glowing, with a ephemeral voice he stated, "it is said, at the end of the road you will even reach immortality."

This time, Vera reacted before me, with a childlike curiosity, she repeated, "immortality?"

That innocent reaction made him laugh out loud, "but don't get your hopes too high," he lifted each finger in his hand, and placed them parallel, with only a distance of about ten centimeters, "if that is the difference between you and me," he then pointed into the sky, "then the sun to us, would be the difference between me and an immortal."

"No way," the maid slumped down and I patted her shoulder, indicating that she should not be discouraged.

"But who knows, it may still be you that will one day cross those boundaries. That is the beauty in magic. It is unfathomable and guides our way of life."

He was right. It was a hard pill to swallow, for a person who had came from another world. 
There were still many questions that I had, but for now I had to settle with the basics. I was certain that even my grandfather could not answer them all.
If I wanted to learn more, I had to ask someone like Seraph, but who knew when I would ever meet her again, if at all.

"Would you like to start learning magic," he suddenly asked.

Warning: This novel features mature content

The greatest swindler, while committing a heist, unfortunately died of an explosion and crossed over to another world.


In this world, he is the Dukes useless granddaughter and is immediately met with a broken engagement.
In this world, he's an incompetent 'miss' and a bastard with a family that wouldn’t mind killing him.
No matter how you looked at it, wasn’t it already [Story End]?


Still, now that he had transcended over, he had to live with only his wits and the ghost of the original body.


“Hmm, first let’s aim for world domination, shall we?”

______________________________________

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"I'm actually an intern doctor."
"Oh? A doctor… you're in medicine…"
"Yes." Huo Mian nodded.
"That's incredible! Let me tell you… this country is lacking Chinese doctors like you. You should open up your own clinic. It's very difficult to see a doctor over here… it's different in this country. And you, why are you in such a state with such a great background? Why don't you abort your child and leave your boyfriend? I'll introduce you to someone. I have a good friend… her son is very successful. He works in Sydney as a financial analyst. He earns tens of thousands of dollars each month, and he has a car and a house. He already has Australian citizenship too! Do you know what's great here? Because of the low population, the government gives you money for having children. The more you have, the more money you get. Isn't that great?" 
"Ugh…" Huo Mian didn't know what to say…
"What do you think about my suggestion?"
"Auntie, thank you for your suggestion… but I can't abort my child. It's my child… I could never do that."
"We could work with that too. Why don't you give birth and then we'll look for a family to adopt your baby? Otherwise, it'll be hard to find a good man."
"I don't need someone else. I've never even thought about that."
"What are you saying? You're still so young."
"I'm not that young. I'm 27… almost 30," Huo Mian corrected.
"That's still young, silly girl… you should plan for your future while you're still young."
Huo Mian felt so guilty for lying. No wonder the old proverbs advised people not to lie.
Once a lie was told, a hundred more lies must be weaved to cover the first lie. 
She really wanted to tell the Auntie that, not only was she old, she already had two adorable daughters.
However, after some thought, she decided to keep chatting with the auntie. It didn't matter anyway…
"Honey, you should really listen to my advice."
"Auntie, how did you end up in Australia? You sound like you're from Shandong province?"
"Yes, how did you know?" The auntie was taken aback.
"Because I've been there before. The people there are very down to earth and very friendly."
"Yes, I'm from Yang Gu, Shandong… the birthplace of Kung Fu…ever heard of it?"
"Yes I do. It's a very famous place." Huo Mian nodded. 
"I came here around seven or eight years ago. At first, my daughter was finishing up her Ph.D. Later she got her citizenship and married an Australian. They later had a kid so I came here to help. Now that the kid's in school, I have nothing to do so my daughter opened up a small shop for me to pass time."
"Is your husband also here?" Huo Mian asked.
"My husband… died 15 years ago. Car accident."
"Oh, my apologies, Auntie, I didn't know."
"It's alright. Let's keep talking about you. If you want, I'll tell my friend tomorrow. Both she and her son are in Sydney. What do you think?"
"Ahem… um… Auntie, I'm done, I'll go do the dishes."
"Let me. You're pregnant right now and shouldn't be doing these things." The elderly woman took away Huo Mian's bowl; she really was kind-hearted.
"Auntie, I'm a little tired. I'm going to sleep here for a little while."
"I can't let you do that. Go upstairs to my bedroom. It's clean there. It's too dirty and cold here."
"It's really okay. I'll leave in the morning."
"You're leaving in the morning? Why are you in such a hurry? Where are you heading to?"
"I'm heading back home…back to my family," said Huo Mian.
Before the auntie could reply, they heard busy footsteps from outside of the house…
"The cameras show that she disappeared around here. Search every house. We have to find her." The voice of a foreign man sounded from the outside.
Alarmed, Huo Mian stood up immediately.


Original Synopsis: 
Seven years ago, after their breakup, he disappeared without a trace.
Now, he reappeared on the eve of her wedding, sparing no means in forcing her to marry him… 
With a certificate of marriage, he bound her mercilessly to his side. 
From there, this “Cinderella” began her journey as a wife of the business empire’s heir...
Mrs Huo - composed, sharp-tongued, and freakishly smart.
Mr Qin - wife-spoiler to no end and a complete “slave” to their daughter.
Quality love story, one on one. You are welcome to get hooked on this story with us. 
Stats on QQ Reader: 102 million favorites, and was voted 8.4/10 by 41 thousand readers. 
TL's Note: Probably one of the best stories I've read, and I was very tempted to translate the title to Big D Brings Spring. Girls, I hope you enjoyed it as much as my girlfriend and my female translators who binge read 4000 chapters in about a month. 
For all the guys hesitating to give it a try, you won't regret it. It's a manly book, I swear.

Pirena's Proverbs

Nandito kami ngayon sa Lireo sapagkat pinapatawag kami ni Alena  dahil merong pagpupulong at meron ring pagsasanay ang aking bunso na si Alana kasama ng aking mga bagong hadia na si Adamus at Dasha at aking apo na si Cassandra 

SA PUNONG BULWAGAN...

ALANA:Ashti Alena!(Sabay yakap sa kanyang ashti at sinalubong rin siya ng kanyang mga pinsan at Hadia na si Cassandra)

ALENA:Mabuti na nakarating kayo agad ni Rama Azulan.

PIRENA:Oo nga at mabuti nalang nagising ako na mas maaga para gisingin aking ashtading Rama kung hindi mahuhuli na man tong si Azulan(Sabay tingin sa kanyang asawa) 

AZULAN:Poltre mahal kong Hara hindi na mauulit (Sabay akbay kay Pirena) Kung hindi mo lang ako pinagod kaga...(Hindi man lang niya natapos ang kanyang sinabi agad siyang siniko ni Pirena)Aray! 

PIRENA:Sheda!Azulan naririto ang mga bata! akala mo hindi ka narinig ng mga iyon!

AZULAN:Poltre aking Hara ako'y nagloloko lamang.

At napatawa nalang si Alena inirapan lang siya ng asawa at humarap agad kay Alena

PIRENA:Ba't ka tumatawa ka diyan?(napipikon niyang sabi)

ALENA:Sapagkat kayo ay nakakatawa(Patawa niyang sabi)..

Napa iling nalang ang kanyang nakakatandang kapatid sa tinuran nito...

PIRENA:Mabuti pang ipatawag mo nalang ang mga Dama para ihatid ang mga bata sa azotea nang sa ganon ay masimulan na ang kanilang pagsasanay.

Pinatawag na ni Alena ang mga dama at inihatid ang mga bagong sanggre sa Azotea ng Lireo

AZULAN:Wla pa ba si Rama Ybrahim at Sanggre Danaya?

Naramdaman nila na merong nag ivictus sa kanilang harapan

DANAYA:Paumanhin na nahuli akong ng dating,dahil meron pa akong inasikaso,si Ybrahim si ba siya dadating? sa pagkakaalam ko na nandito na Lira wla ba siyang balak na sumali sa pagpupulong?(Sunod sunod na tanong ni Danaya..

ALENA:Dadating din iyon mamaya mabuti pang mauna muna tayo sa silid pulongan

Sa Azotea ng Lireo...

Aquil:Ire,duwe,kaskil!

Dasha:Ado pwede bang makapagpahinga na muna dahil ako'y 
napapagod na!

Aquil:Alam mo anak ang isang sang'gre hindi agad sumusuko(sabay hawak sa pisngi ng kanyang anak)

Adamus:Alam namin yan Aldo ngunit kanina pa tayo nagsasanay at ako'y pagod na rin...

Aquil: Kakasimula pa lang natin,bakit ang bilis nyo atang mapagod?..dahil dyan tuloy ang ating pagsasanay (Tumalikod sabay kumpas ng kanyang espada)

Cassandra:Ano ba tong si Ilo Aquil kanina pa tayo nagsasanay dito tapos sinabi niya na kasisimula pa lang natin?(Bulong ni Cassandra)

ALANA:Oo nga eh...pero may naisip ako.(Sabay ngiti)

CASSANDRA:ANO IYON?

AQUIL:May sinasabi ka Cassandra?(Humarap kay Cassandra)

CASSANDRA:Wala po Ilo

AQUIL:(Tumalikod) Ituloy niyo lang ang pagsasanay.

ALANA:Pwede bang hinaan mo ang iyong boses..yan tuloy muntik na tayong mahuli!

CASSANDRA:Sarreh..okay sarreh...

DASHA:Ano bang pinagbubulongan niyo jan?

ADAMUS:Oo nga kanina ko pa napansin na may pinag usapan kayo.

ALANA:Gusto mo bang gumala?(Bulong niya ni Cassandra)

Tumango naman ito at sinabihan ang iba at sabay silang nag ivictus patungog dalampasigan...

AQUIL'S PROVERBS

Haharapin ko sana ang mga diwani at ang rehav ngunit sa paglingon ko wala na ang mga ito at nakita ko si muros na kakarating lang

AQUIL:Muros napansin mo ba kung saan nagtungo ang mga diwani at rehav?

MUROS:Poltre Mashna Durye hindi ko sila napapansin kararating ko lang galing sa paglalakbay.

AQUIL:Pashea! natakasan na man ako.

Sa silid pulongan..

AQUIL:Poltre mga Hara at Rama sa pagagambala ko sa inyong pagpupulong..nawawala na naman ang mga Diwani at ang Rehav!

PIRENA:Tanakreshna! kung makikita ko ang mga yun malilintikan sila sa akin.

AZULAN:May pinagmanahan.(Sabay pigil sa pagtawa)

YBRAHIM:Siyang tunay kaibigan..

PIRENA:(Hinarap si Azulan at Ybrahim tinaasan niya ang mga ito ng kilay)May sinasabi kayo?

DANAYA:May nais ba kayo ipahiwatig?(Diin nitong sabi)

YBRAHIM:Wala na man kaming nais na ibig sabihin Hara Pirena,Hara Durye..(Patawa nitong sabi)ito kasing si Azulan..

AZULAN:Anong ako?(Pagtataka nitong tanong)

ALENA:Sheda! Huminahon nga kayo mabuti pang hanapin nalang natin ang mga ashtading iyon

DANAYA:Mabuti pa nga..kami nalang ni Pirena ang maghahanap...batid mo kung saan sila nagtungo di ba?

PIRENA:Oo naman

(At sabay nag ivictus)

ALANA'S PROVERBS

Nandirito kami ng aking mga pinsan at hadia..

ALANA:Ikaw na ngayon ang taya Dasha!(Sabay tawa)

DASHA:Ako na naman!(napipikon nitong sabi)

ADAMUS:Bilisan mo kasi ang pagtakbo..

CASSANDRA:Ba't nakatayo ka pa?Habulin mo na kami.

Ilang sandali lang ay bigla-bigla nalang sumulpot si Yna at Ashti Danaya sa aming harapan..

ALANA,CASSANDRA,ADAMUS,DASHA:Patay...(Mahina nilang sabi at tila parang nakakita ng mga ivtre)

PIRENA:Sabi na nga ba nandito lamang kayo!(Habang ang dalawang kamay nasa bewang)

DANAYA:Bakit na naman kayo tumatakas?

DASHA:Ganito po kasi iyon Yna gusto lang po namin magpahinga kahit sandali..

PIRENA:Tapos?

CASSANDRA:Kanina pa po kami nagsasanay at pagod na pagod na kami.

ALANA:Kaya Yna Ashti naisipan naming mamasyal muna sapagkat hindi kami pinayagan ni Ilo Aquil.

DANAYA:Kaya naisipan niyong tumakas sa inyong pagsasanay?

Walang ni isa sa mga Diwani at Rehav ang nakasagot.

PIRENA:At sa tingin nyo sapat ang inyong mga dahilan para kayo'y tumakas at nagpunta kung saan na hindi namin nalalaman?..Alam nyo ba na pwede kayong mapahamak dahil sa inyong ginawa!(Diin nitong sabi)

Nakayuko lamang ang mga ito habang pinapangaralan ni Pirena

ALANA:Poltre Yna,Ashti...Alam ko pong magagalit kayo sa amin kung ano mang kaparusahan na ipapataw niyo sa amin tatangapin po namin.

CASSANDRA:Tama po si Alana at sorry po..

ADAMUS:Kagaya ng Sabi ni Alana kung anong kaparusahan ang ipatataw nyo sa amin aming tatangapin..

DASHA:Tama si Adamus kaya patawarin nyo na po kami...

GENERAL'S PROVERBS

Dahil nais nila ALANA at DASHA mapatawad ng kanilang mga ina niyakap nila ang mga ito at nakiyakap naman si CASSANDRA at ADAMUS.Yumayakap naman pabalik si Pirena at Danaya

PIRENA:Hindi naman kami galit sa inyo galit kami sa ginawa niyo baka kayo'y mapahamak at labis labis kaming nag-alala sa inyo..

CASSANDRA:Son Ila di na po kayo galit sa amin?

DANAYA:Oo hindi na kami galit sa inyo kaya tayo na sa Lireo nang mapag usapan na ang inyong kaparusahan..

Tumango lamang ang mga ito at sabay nag ivictus patungong Lireo

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WELCOME
Money Matters; What is your personal principle about finances? Share one learning experience of it. 

WORD: 
Luke 12:15 New International Version (NIV) says
15 Then he said to them, "Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions."

We all want to be successful in our finances & we often equate it with having lots of money. the Bible, however, tells us that true financial success has practically nothing to do with how much or how little money we have. instead, in God's economy, it is all about character. This means that true success begins with the heart-our being determines our doing. But because of our sinful nature, we long to fill our heart with more money & other material things in order to be successful. This is only to find out later on that unless we have JESUS CHRIST, there is NOTHING IN THIS WORLD that will ever be enough. The truth is ONLY JESUS CAN SATISFY OUR LONGINGS & CAN FILL IN that vacuum in our heart. Jesus Christ's warnings implore us to beware & be on guard against any form of greed-that insatiable desire to have more.


Luke 12:15 New International Version (NIV) says
15 Then he said to them, "Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions."

Money is not the problem, but the love & longing for money is. 
1 Timothy 6:9-10 New International Version (NIV)
9 Those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. 10 For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.

To succeed in what truly matters to God, we need to learn three aspects of true financial success.

PERSPECTIVE OF FINANCIAL SUCCESS
1. God owns everything.
Psalm 24:1-2 New International Version (NIV) says
Psalm 24
Of David. A psalm.
1 The earth is the Lord's, and everything in it,
    the world, and all who live in it;
2 for he founded it on the seas
    and established it on the waters.


Psalm 50:10-12 New International Version (NIV) says
10 for every animal of the forest is mine,
    and the cattle on a thousand hills.
11 I know every bird in the mountains,
    and the insects in the fields are mine.
12 If I were hungry I would not tell you,
    for the world is mine, and all that is in it.

If we could only compute the monetary value of all the earth, the universe & everything in it, can we even imagine how rich God really is? All the produce of the land, sea & heavens are HIS. He does not need anything from us & He owes us nothing. IT IS ALL HIS.

2. God is our source.


Philippians 4:19 New International Version (NIV) says
19 And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.

Since God owns everything, obviously HE IS ABLE TO SUPPLY ALL OUR NEEDS (NOT OUR GREED). This is what is in the heart of God. WHEN WE HAVE A TRUE TOTAL COMMITTED PERSONAL RELATIONSHIP WITH HIM,we can see our Heavenly Father providing for all our needs. More so, God is the source of our strength that allows us to produce wealth.


Deuteronomy 8:17-18 New International Version (NIV) says
17 You may say to yourself, "My power and the strength of my hands have produced this wealth for me." 18 But remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you the ability to produce wealth, and so confirms his covenant, which he swore to your ancestors, as it is today.

3. God is our Master. 


Matthew 6:24 New International Version (NIV) says
24 "No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.

We cannot serve two masters. GOD MUST BE THE ONLY ONE SITTING ON THE THRONE OF OUR HEART.HIS PLANS FOR US ARE MUCH BETTER THAN OURS OR ANYONE ELSE'S. If we believe that GOD OWNS EVERYTHING, if we TRUST THAT HE IS THE SOURCE OF ALL THINGS & if we truly want to serve Him as our Master with a grateful heart, then it will surely impact our use of money.It all begins with having the right perspective.

PRACTICES FOR FINANCIAL SUCCESS

How can we apply the right perspective into practice?

1. TITHING.


Proverbs 3:9-10 New International Version (NIV) says

9 Honor the Lord with your wealth,
    with the firstfruits of all your crops;
10 then your barns will be filled to overflowing,
    and your vats will brim over with new wine.

The whole purpose of tithing is to  honor God as the owner & source of everything by putting HIM first. God is teaching us to honor HIM so that He can bless us. But if we are robbing HIM with our tithes & offerings we withhold HIS blessings.

Moreover, the blessing of God is not only what He gives but also what He does not allow to happen for our protection.


Malachi 3:8-11 New International Version (NIV) says

8 "Will a mere mortal rob God? Yet you rob me.

"But you ask, 'How are we robbing you?'

"In tithes and offerings. 9 You are under a curse—your whole nation—because you are robbing me. 10 Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this," says the Lord Almighty, "and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it. 11 I will prevent pests from devouring your crops, and the vines in your fields will not drop their fruit before it is ripe," says the Lord Almighty.

2. REPAYING DEBTS.


Romans 13:8 New International Version (NIV) says

Love Fulfills the Law

8 Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for whoever loves others has fulfilled the law.

Having debts is not a grave sin, but the Bible has nothing good to say about debts. Our goal is to owe anyone nothing because God does not want us to be a slave to the lender.


Proverbs 22:7 New International Version (NIV)

7 The rich rule over the poor,
    and the borrower is slave to the lender.

To borrow & not to pay is wicked.

Psalm 37:21 New International Version (NIV)

21 The wicked borrow and do not repay,
    but the righteous give generously;

Jesus came to set us free to be what He wants us to be, not to be enslaved by greed or by debts.

3. PRAYER, PRAYER.

1 Thessalonians 5:17 New International Version (NIV) says

17 pray continually,

Every financial decision is a spiritual decision. If we believe that God owns everything then we would want to ask Him permission, guidance & wisdom in all financial matters.


4. GIVING.


Luke 21:1-4 New International Version (NIV) says

The Widow's Offering

21 As Jesus looked up, he saw the rich putting their gifts into the temple treasury. 2 He also saw a poor widow put in two very small copper coins. 3 "Truly I tell you," he said, "this poor widow has put in more than all the others. 4 All these people gave their gifts out of their wealth; but she out of her poverty put in all she had to live on."

Giving is on top of tithing. The story of the poor widow teaches us that everybody can give. God is a giving God, He gave His only Son because He so loved us. More important than how much we give is how we give-whether we do not grudgingly or our of compulsion but with a cheerful heart.


2 Corinthians 9:6-8 New International Version (NIV) says

Generosity Encouraged

6 Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. 7 Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. 8 And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.

5. STEWARDSHIP


Proverbs 30:25 New International Version (NIV) says

25 Ants are creatures of little strength,
    yet they store up their food in the summer;

This refers to saving, budgeting & accountability. The tiny ants can teach us to prepare in summer before winter. When faced with financial decisions, calculate the cost beforehand. 


Luke 14:28 New International Version (NIV) says

28 "Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Won't you first sit down and estimate the cost to see if you have enough money to complete it?

Live below your means. Financial success is all about  faithfulness to our Master. 


Matthew 25:23 New International Version (NIV) says

23 "His master replied, 'Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master's happiness!'


PRACTICES FOR FINANCIAL SUCCESS

The blessing of true financial success is the very PRESENCE OF JESUS CHRIST in every area of our lives. He alone can give us the pleasures of PEACE & CONTENTMENT; two things we all surely long to possess more than money. There is more to life than our accumulated material possessions & that is peace.


Matthew 6:25-26 New International Version (NIV) says

Do Not Worry

25 "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? 26 Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?

This peace of God surpasses all understanding & guards our hearts & minds.


Philippians 4:6 New International Version (NIV) says

6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

Contentment is a sense of sufficiency & being grateful for what we have. 


1 Timothy 6:6-7 New International Version (NIV) says

6 But godliness with contentment is great gain. 7 For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it.

After all, we brought nothing into this world & we cannot take anything out of it either. In the end, Jesus Christ alone is enough for us.


Mark 10:45 New International Version (NIV) says

45 For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many."


John 19:30 New International Version (NIV) says

30 When he had received the drink, Jesus said, "It is finished." With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:(PLEASE DO NOT INCLUDE ANYMORE HERE YOUR PAST EXPERIENCE, BECAUSE WE ARE NOW AT THE PRESENT TIME)

1. What is the warning of Jesus Christ in Luke 12:15? Why did He warn us to be on guard against greed?

Mia's answer:  In the Luke 12:15, Jesus Christ warn me of being greed about money; He warn me to be on guard against greed because He know that even during His time, people is greed about their income

Kathy's answer: In Luke 12: 15, "Then he said to them, "Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions."  Therefore, we should be on our guard against all of greed.  Life is not consist of material things.  There is spiritual things that we would be connected to God. 

2. Does your life show peace & contentment in financial matters? How do you say so?

Mia's answer: Yes, My life show peace & contentment in financial matters; I say so by giving my tithe every week even during our MIDWEEK SERVICE

Kathy's answer: My life is not that financially stable.  Because I am unemployed and disabled  My father is unemployed and aged.  But, we are trying our best to meet our needs by looking out for good opportunities to earn money . 

3. How do you intend to begin & share the pleasures of financial success with others?

Mia's answer: I intend to begin & share the pleasure of financial success with others by telling them what I am doing 

Kathy's answer: By giving tithes and offerings to the church.  Amen.  And by sharing my blessings to my father and nieces and nephews.  During Christmas, I give gifts like chocolates and cookies to my nieces and nephews.  And my father gives "ang-pao's" to his grand children during Christmas Season. 


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-END-

Lists of thoughts... Random thoughts... (considered as communion to God Almighty!)

With his eyes focused on the table, Lu Bancheng didn't say anything.
I never would have thought that the team captain I've known for so many years could possibly be her...
Moving her fingertips, Xu Wennuan looked up at Lu Bancheng. "What's wrong?"
Lu Bancheng replied, "Nothing."
"Oh," Xu Wennuan answered, looking back at her phone screen to concentrate on her game.
Lu Bancheng stroked his phone screen with his fingertips and glanced at Xu Wennuan from time to time.
Who knew she's the boss always leading me to victory every day?
Life… always surprising me with the unexpected.
Indeed, life is always a surprise.
…...
Gu Yusheng had spent great energy at the party trying to figure out whether or not Qin Zhi'ai had anything to do with his little troublemaker.
Although he could not be sure about that yet, he had discovered something else, purely by accident, that he had been puzzled about for many years.
He had not expected Qin Zhi'ai to be part of the answer.
…...
You never know what could happen next: a tragedy or a tomorrow.
In the past, Qin Zhi'ai had always thought of this saying as one of many clever old proverbs.
It wasn't until the annual party that she realized just how relevant this saying is. Her life seemed as if a tragedy had inexplicably occurred, of the variety that only happens in novels.
That tragedy hadn't literally killed her, but it was enough to have destroy her entire life.
…...
At the end of the party, Qin Zhi'ai needed to go to the bathroom again. Xu Wennuan was deep into playing her game, so Qin Zhi'ai went by herself.
I'm not a three-year-old. I'm not going to get lost on the way. And I'll be right back.
Guests were steadily leaving the party, and by now the bathroom was almost empty.
When Qin Zhi'ai came out of the stall, she stood in front of the gleaming sink, turned on the water to wash her hands, and heard someone come out of a man's stall.
Qin Zhi'ai glanced in the mirror in front of her and saw a man in a waiter's uniform. She didn't think much about it and lowered her head to continue washing and, as she reached for the handle to turn off the water, the waiter approached and stood behind her.
Her body became instinctively stiff. Before she could make a sound, he said, "If you dare to shout, I will inject this poison into your body."
Qin Zhi'ai swallowed the words on the tip of her tongue, lowered her head slightly, and looked at her own waist while feeling odd. The man was holding a syringe that he'd stuck into her dress but had not yet pierced her skin.
Qin Zhi'ai dared not to move for fear that the needle would enter her skin and the poison would spread throughout her bloodstream.
The man's low voice spoke into her ear, "I hope you're smart enough to follow me out of the back door now; otherwise, I'll kill you on the spot."
Qin Zhi'ai's heart trembled. She pursed her lips, finally nodded to the man, and was forced out of the bathroom. They left the banquet hall unobserved through the back door.


Original name: Prince Charming's Next Door, finished. 
One day, she slept with him accidentally. Two month later, she found herself pregnant, so they got married with baby.
“Mr. Gu, I like the dishes of this restaurant.” Then the chef of that restaurant was hired as theirs. 
“Mr. Gu, I like the bags of that brand.” Then the designer of that brand was employed exclusively for her. 
She thought of herself as a stranger to him after marriage as she had always been, but in fact he doted on her totally beyond her imagination. He would satisfy all her demands, except letting her find a job. 
She kind of got anxiously bored at home, so she sneaked out to find herself a job. However, whichever company she was hired by would go bankrupt somehow or other. 
Finally, she got to know it had been always him who had done mischief surreptitiously. She went to question him angrily, but he gave her a job with a smirky smile. The next day when she went to take the office with delight, she found her employee ID card on the desk said ‘Name: Qin Zhi’ai, Position: Wife of Gu Yusheng’.

Jean wore his Sunday's best early in the morning. He looked in the mirror. A clean-shaven, porcelain-like face stared with its piercing brown eyes and its somewhat thin eyebrows raised.

Jean checked his mouth for any remnants of the eggs and rice he ate almost half an hour ago. Then, he turned off the bathroom lights, ignoring his dirty clothes wrapped in his towel on the hamper at the door.

Jean opened his filing cabinet with his keychain and looked at his accounted expenditures. He wondered briefly about future purchases and profitable investments. Jean shook his head and locked up the cabinet.

Eventually, Jean slipped on his shoes and the standard-issue black clergy cassock. 

It was time. He had deacon duties to do.

The drive to the Renningberry Catholic Church took only minutes. Jean stepped out of his neat and tidy blue Ford Bronco. Although it was getting old, he took diligent care of it.

Jean jingled his keys and opened the rusty doors of the Church. Its noise brought peace to his mind. Even with all the tweeting of birds, it was nice to hear noises that could alert Jean.

Jean held his duties with solemn dedication and maintained the aging organ among many other things. Hours passed and soon, he was done.

Jean laid a Bible in his lap as he sat in front of the organ. His fingers danced across the keys, practicing different arrangement of Gothic music.

A loud thrum of a sputtering transmission broke into the melody, but Jean did not stop. Soon, Pastor Nick arrived. His large form comically contrasted his position, yet his aging appearance showed he did not lack experience. He was a decent-looking man in his fifties, after all.

"Jean! You're here early, like always, huh? You're such a good kid. Are you going to lead the liturgy again?" Pastor Nick called, walking towards the altar.

"Yes, Brother Nick. 'For the Lord Grants wisdom! From his mouth come knowledge and understanding.' Proverbs 2:6." Jean replied. He stopped playing.

"I still don't know why you come in so early. A talented and good-hearted kid like you should be sweeping the entertainment industry!" Pastor Nick chuckled. "You play music like a Heaven-sent angel, you know that, Jean?"

"I have faith the Lord guides me to help others. 'Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding.' Proverbs 3:5." 

"Jean! You don't have to be so stiff. Why do you need to quote the Scriptures when both of us are well-read?"

"We must stay true to our teachings. 'Without wise leadership, a nation falls; there is safety in having many advisers.' What better advisers can there be than the Scriptures themselves?"

"Well, I knew I shouldn't have argued with you. You keep drowning me in your faith. Lighten up a little, huh?" Pastor Nick scratched at his stubble.

"I'm just joking with you! I'm young but lacking experience. If I want to enjoy the world, I have to make my own fun, right?" Jean winked at Pastor Nick.

Pastor Nick jarred in his step as he was walking to his office in the basement, suitcase in hand. "Y-yeah. Life's too short to worry so much about. Just don't go overboard. You keep reminding me of old Pastor Francis."

"Fine, Brother Nick. I'll see you at Mass."

Jean continued playing the organ until the main congregation filed in.

Jean rang the bell as Pastor Nick stood behind him. They went through the Rites lethargically. When the hymns came up, Jean lively led the Choir and congregation. Jean preached for the sermon and homily about truth and happiness. He noted the tragic end of William and Veronica, with their children. The Profession of Faith and the Prayers passed quickly.

Small baskets were passed around for donations as offertory began. Soon, the end neared.

Pastor Nick only offered Natalie the pitiful amount of wine left in the chalice. She was recently accepted by Yaler, long served as a volunteer for the homeless and needy, and always had good behavior. 

After the drink, she became a little flushed so Pastor Nick helped her sit on the side. Pastor Nick blessed the congregation but said Natalie told him she wanted to confess her sins privately before leaving on Tuesday.

Members of the congregation shuffled out, slightly tired but invigorated by the teachings of Deacon Jean and Pastor Nick. Their cars slowly pulled out and left only three behind.

Jean softly smirked. He cleaned up the pews and after the Mass methodically. Today was special.

Jean stretched and decided he took long enough. Pastor Nick closed the Church doors for his private session with Natalie. It didn't take a genius to figure out what he was doing.

Jean tucked his thick, hardcover Bible under his armpit. He slowly walked down the steps, appreciating the history of the stone foundation. At the door, he heard muffled noises. Jean unlocked the door and then knocked.

"Brother Nick? It's getting late. Shouldn't Natalie get home soon?"

Jean opened the door mid-sentence.

There, Pastor Nick stood, half-way thrusting into the sprawled form of Natalie. Her hands were bound by taut rope to sconces on the wall and her mouth was filled with a ball gag. Her legs similarly were spread apart, tied, and weakly moving in resistance.

Pastor Nick's arm was drawn back, with a riding crop in hand. It fell out of his grasp. Already, long red lines drew across Natalie's skin, slightly bleeding.

"Jean, wait!"

Jean stood in place, imprinting the memory. How many years had he known this was going on? Too many, that's how many. Father Francis didn't go to the grave willingly, and Jean knew this too...

"Jean, I can explain! This is… yes. She wanted this! We're just having adult fun! There's no need for you to be here!"

"Brother Nick," Jean said, coldly. "I was going to debate the Scriptures with you. 'My eyes are red with weeping; dark shadows circle my eyes." Job 16:16. Is that not what I see from Natalie? 'Shouldn't someone answer this torrent of words? Is a person proved innocent just by a lot of talking?' Job 11:2. Can I trust you anymore, Brother Nick? Shouldn't I trust the words of Natalie?"

Pastor Nick slowly pulled up his pants and walked over to the door.

"Jean. Forget this ever happened. Next time--"

"NEXT TIME?!" Jean thundered.

"Jean!" Pastor Nick bowed to Jean for forgiveness. "Please!" They stood in silence.

Jean began mumbling quietly.

"What was that, Jean?" Pastor Nick asked. Another moment of silence passed.

"I called the police. They're going to arrest you."

"What?! NO! I CAN'T END LIKE THIS! HOW DARE YOU, UNGRATEFUL WHELP!! I WILL KILL YOU!!"

Pastor Nick charged at the door. Jean fled, dropping the phone.

They both ran up the stairs, and Jean let Pastor Nick catch up.

Pastor Nick tackled Jean's legs and screamed in fury. They both fell forwards.

"Let go! Let go! LET GO!!!" Jean yelled at the desperate man.

Pastor Nick pummeled Jean's androgenous legs as Jean tried to slip away.

Jean smiled brightly.

His Bible fell like a guillotine. A cold snap broke the air, and with a swift kick, Pastor Nick fell down the stairs like a ragdoll. A sickening thump splattered the end of his fall.

Jean slowly walked down the stairs, enduring the pounding his legs encountered.

At the bottom, Pastor Nick spawled like broken toy, probably looking like what the many women he groomed and tasted felt like. A pool of red began forming.

Jean bent down to feel his pulse. There was none.

Jean stumbled over to Natalie. He removed the ball gag to hear her sobbing and slowly untied her limbs. She cried endlessly, so Jean patted her head.

"There, there. It's all over. 'He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. All these things are gone forever.' Revelation 21:4." he cooed.

Jean hugged Natalie until the police arrived.

The city launched an investigation into the incident. Many women attested to Jean's innocence and Pastor Nick's vile ways. There was enough physical evidence to put Pastor Nick behind bars for life and even more. People whispered rumors and spread gossip about Father Francis. Yet, Jean stayed a devout and proud Catholic Christian who acted in heroic self-defence. 

Jean took over the Renningberry Catholic Church. Pope Jon Paul the Great commended Jean and took measures to condemn the sexual misconduct of the Catholic Church while apologizing to victims.

Jean continued living normally, albeit with more respect and publicity. He removed one more shackle, all in the eyes of the public. He could use even more subliminal messages to imprint his alibi into the mind of the public. Jean smiled more brightly in public. It was all going to plan, after all.

Wasn't the best disguise in plain sight?

The camera views the actions of an aspiring serial killer. 

How far and how close can he come to reality?

(Written on my phone to spite Rebirth of A Serial Killer by Kotrem and because I always wanted to write  a serial killer series. 

Any similarities to real people, places, and works are not to be taken seriously.)

That was huge news!
Y, from who knows when, became a symbol of mystery. One by one they appeared out of nowhere, all of them amazing on their own right, yet none of them showed their faces.
At that moment, the Y-God that was hidden within the darkness finally decided to turn on the lights?
That news took over at full force, like a storm washing through the entire stream, attracting countless viewers.
Finally, with a "click", Y-God's stream turned bright!
In front of the screen, was a person wearing Superman Y's mask…
[F*ck! I've got my pants off, and this is what you show me?]
[Damn it! You beast, cheating my feelings!]
[Woe is me. I came here excited, yet return home sad.]
[Please don't be depressed guys. At least we gained something. We got to see Y-God's slender fingers, his strong broad shoulders, that sexy adam's apple, and those eyes filled with emotions…]
[Bootlicker, you're disgusting!]
[It seems like Y-God is not that old. I guess he is quite the handsome one. Regardless, this is better than a black screen.]
…
Comments flew everywhere. Ye Lingchen coughed lightly, saying "Since we're all called Y, it's fated. I'll be borrowing this Superman Y mask for a while. I hope that Superman Y won't get offended."
[Superman Y: I take offense! Take it down immediately!]
[I beg for Superman Y to appear and take that mask off Y-God!]
The entire stream turned extra lively. It would seem that Ye Lingchen had achieved his desired effect.
He had already guessed that his changing of the streaming content would cause him to lose several viewers. That was unavoidable, hence the skit he came up with. The effect was better than he had anticipated. At least the viewers in the stream were increasing rather than decreasing. Next up was to keep them there using the stream content!
[It was a time where heroes rose up in droves, of confusing historical records. It's an interesting topic. Historical records, wild myths, romanticization, and TV adaptations. Each era had its focal points, and each composition described the scene differently. Fact and fiction were indistinguishable, success and failures were similarly doubtful. Telling a story with the characters, with the characters we relive history, with history we talk about culture, and with culture we study human nature. Next, I present to all of you—Study of the Three Kingdoms by Y-God!]
The charming voice slowly went on, stirring the hearts of the viewers watching the stream, indicating the start of the show.
Listening to the intro, they felt that it might be somewhat interesting. Everyone felt a sense of historical majesty coming their way.
'This seems different from the average history lessons. Perhaps I should give it a try?'
Some of the viewers that wanted to leave hesitated and chose to stay back and listen instead.
Meanwhile, somewhere out there, an elderly man was frowning as he watched his grandson in the room, letting out a heavy sigh.
Grandparents would always spoil the kids. He felt a little regret for spoiling his grandson so much. At that point, he could not bear to hit, nor scold him.
Every time the grandson came home, he would hide in the room, either gaming or watching some live stream. As such activities wasted lots of time, his results had gradually deteriorated. That caused the elderly man to feel helpless.
As a history professor, his grandson did not have a shred of interest in history. Furthermore, he was failing all his history exams. That hurt the elderly man's heart and smeared his reputation, to the extent that many of his colleagues would make fun of him for it.
After a moment's consideration, he finally gritted his teeth as he steeled his heart and entered his grandson's room.
"Little Feng, are you watching that supernatural live stream again?" asked the elderly man, testing the waters. "You should spend less time on those things and use them to study instead."
Little Feng quickly turned over to look at him. "Gramps, the previous supernatural live stream has ended. I'm now learning history."
"Learning history?" The elderly man was caught off guard, approaching with disbelief.
All he could hear was Ye Lingchen's voice drifting over. [When it comes to the Three Kingdoms, we will remember the famed Battle of the Red Cliffs. As for the Battle of the Red Cliffs, we will be reminded of Su Dongbo's famous poem, Memories of the Red Cliffs[1]—The great river with piling waves flows Eastward, carrying along the gallant souls of the remote bygone days...Life is just a dream. Allow me to libate a drink to the moonwake.[2]
From the magnificence of this poem, it showed us the heroic spirit and romance during the times of the Three Kingdoms. With that, we can imagine the glory of that era.]
From the sound of it, it did sound like the Three Kingdoms.
The elderly man felt a shiver run through him and immediately took a seat.
He lacked confidence in the live stream and needed to confirm the authenticity of its contents. He must not let his grandson be misled. However, looking at his grandson overflowing with excitement, he could not help but feel slightly comforted.
That was a good starting point!
'This history narrator is quite interesting.'
Unlike other history narrators, Ye Lingchen did not narrate it according to the timeline and development. Instead, he cut in straight from the Memories of the Red Cliffs, grabbing onto the interest of his audience before he started his narration.
[After reading this poem, I can't help but tie it to Mr. Zhou in the poem. The Mr. Zhou that turned boats and ships into ashes was none other than Zhou Yu!]
The elderly man's eyes brightened. To cut into this point from the poem was a good call.
He could not help but grow more interested as he listened.
[I believe that Zhou Yu is no stranger to everyone. When we talk about him, most would think of him as a petty person, therefore leading to an overwhelming number of scandals. For example—"Zhou Yu's three defeats", "Why would the heavens conceive of Zhuge Liang when I, Zhou Yu is here", "Zhou Yu's foiled plans, losing the wife and the battle". These phrases turned into proverbs and are used in our daily lives. However, in truth...that was not the case!]
'Scandals?'
Some viewers could not help but laugh. 'Can history be taught this way?'
However, following that, a frown appeared on their faces. They have heard of the proverbs that Ye Lingchen mentioned, but all the things they have known all these while were just upended by Y-God in an instant? What was going on?
They wanted to continue listening.
The elderly man made a frown as well and was met with his grandson's question. "Grandpa, I've heard of these phrases before. Are they really like that?"
"Let's continue listening first," answered the elderly man, not refuting Ye Lingchen on the spot as he watched the hunger for knowledge shown on his grandson's face.
Ignoring the doubtful comments, Ye Lingchen continued to narrate with a calm voice.
[Zhou Yu was elected as a military officer of Jianwei by Sun Ce at age 24. Within the Wu army, he was known as Zhou Lang. Everyone in that region called him Zhou Lang at that time. "Lang" also meant kid. During that time, addressing someone in that fashion was meant as a praise for his appearance, resulting in the name to mean Handsome Zhou.]
'Handsome Zhou?'
Many viewers laughed in front of their computers. This history lesson was just too interesting. It was filled with a modern twist in every aspect!
Casual with a hint of mischief.
With an amazing opening, interesting style, and unorthodox approach, he managed to grab hold of the viewer's hearts, cultivating their interest to continue listening…
[1] 赤壁怀古 (Sentiments of the Red Cliffs / Remembrance of the Tale of the Crimson Cliff) - If you are interested in the full translation of this poem, please visit this site for the complete translation. Do note that our translation may be different. https://28utscprojects.wordpress.com/2011/03/01/%E8%8B%B1%E8%AD%AF-%E8%98%87%E8%BB%BE-%E5%BF%B5%E5%A5%B4%E5%AC%8C%EF%BC%88%E8%B5%A4%E5%A3%81%E6%87%B7%E5%8F%A4%EF%BC%89/
[2] 江月 (river moon / the moon's reflection on the river) - We have decided to go poetic and make use of the term moonwake (synonym moonglade, but that might be confused with the World of Warcraft location). Taken from Wiktionary.


Ye Lingchen was a regular high schooler who struggled with exams and expectations from his parents.
All that changed after he woke up from a strange dream and discovered that he had been granted the 'Prodigy System'. His life changed from this point on. Reading a book allowed him to learn its content immediately. Listening to lectures granted instant understanding of the lesson. Observation of a technique imprinted knowledge of the technique used.
Learning had never been so easy, and as the saying goes, knowledge is power. In this case, he now had access to a ton of unbridled power. 
What does it feel like to become a 'prodigy' overnight? Follow Ye Lingchen on this journey to discover the limitless possibilities...

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