The day started just the same as any other for Theodora Watson. She rose from the bed as soon as the sun had risen thanks to her trusty alarm. Before she could get dressed she rushed to the bathroom and thoroughly brushed her teeth before and washed her face smooth. And once she finished she rubbed her moisturizer over her bare brown skin that always seemed to glisten under the natural night that beamed through the window. 

As she finally made her way to the walk-in closet, her phone had rung and she didn't hesitate to answer.

"This is Theo." She spoke before placing it on the speaker and continuing her habitual process.

"Hey, it's your favorite assistant." A cheery voice said over the line.

"Good morning, Rach. Something wrong?"

"No, just a sudden change to your schedule. Boss said it's urgent that you see her immediately upon arrival. Is there anything you'd like me to do before you get here?"

"Shit." She muttered to herself whilst buttoning up her plain white top.

"Uh, can you organize my schedule accordingly? I was supposed to be interviewing someone and it's probably good that it's been pushed back. I haven't had the chance to fully research the person anyways. Remind me who it is?"

"Renatta Gilbert. She's a renowned humanitarian who's proposed a way to help spread awareness on climate change and a long list of global issues. They're already calling her the next Mother Teresa so I'd suggest nailing this. I see she's also a vegan so I made a reservation at a nearby vegan-friendly restaurant for two as a way of apologizing for the delay. Anything else?" Rachel quickly responded.

"I love you and I don't know what I would do without you. See you in a bit."

"Peace."

As soon as she ended the call she hurriedly squeezed herself into her pencil skirt and tucked the top in. Once she was straightened out, she tossed on a blazer and stepped into a sleek pair of heels. 

She then combed her honey brown waves over her shoulder and after applying a thin layer of lip balm under a nude brown lip she was ready to go. On her way out she grabbed her bag by the door and hurried to her car that sat outside her quiet home.

And as she started her way to work her phone had rung yet again. Without looking she hooked it up to the speaker and carried on.

"This is Theo."

"And this is Alex. Is that seriously your greeting?" Her best friend giggled over the line.

"Shut up. It's supposed to be professional."

"Are you trying to convince me or you?"

"Did you call just to mock me or is this conversation actually going to go somewhere?"

"I called to invite you out for some fun, we can hang out like old times."

"You mean like last night? We were out so late that I forgot to get my shit together for work. I'm never going to allow you to seduce me like that any longer." 

"What if I told you it was a cooking class specializing in baking a molten lava cake tonight?" Alex hummed.

"I'll think about it. No promises." She relented.

"Good enough for me. See ya, babe."

After hanging up the phone she sped to her place of work and for once arrived earlier than usual. She then parked near the entrance and hurried inside to greet the perky receptionist on the first floor. Her head popped up once she heard footsteps and smiled at the sight of Theo.

"Good morning, Ms. Watson. In a rush?" 

She was, but Theo knew by now that it was always wise to see what the eyes and ears of the company had to say. 

"As always, Lisa. Have any idea what I'm walking into?" She asked the usually gossipy girl.

"Well you didn't hear it from me but we are supposedly expecting a huge guest within the next few days."

"How huge are we talking?" Theo replied.

Lisa quickly leaned forward in her seat as she prepared to spill all the juicy details. No one ever asked how the girl knew so much, but they were grateful for the useful information. It seemed she had a talent for being invisible and hearing things no one had even a hint of.

"So huge that we haven't even got a name. The visitor is high profile and can't risk  their whereabouts being known by the general public so their identity is top secret." 

"Nothing's too top secret for you though, is it?" Theo smirked.

"You bet your ass it isn't. So after some poking around, while I don't have a name, I do know it's a celebrity so private that only a select number of people actually know who it is. But somehow we managed to secure a once in a lifetime interview that will launch this company into the spotlight. Not that Elite needs it, but it will be huge!"

"Good to know. I owe you one, Lis."

"It's no surprise that you're gonna be in on it as you're one of the best writers this city's ever seen. I want the information. What good is the office gossiper if they're lacking the best details?"

"I'll see what I can do. Thanks, girl."

"No problem. Have a good day!" She returned with a smile.

--

"You needed to see me?" Theo said upon entering the office.

Joan Vance, editor-in-chief of Elite magazine wasn't a social person. She was never one to waste time with a quick chat, not when there was work to be done. So for her to request to have a chat just out of the blue it had to be serious. The silver-haired woman wasn't known to ever hold her tongue and her honesty was one of the main reasons Theo worked so hard to work under her.

"Please, have a seat. I have a rare opportunity in my hands and I want to make sure it gets taken care of by the right person." She got right down to it.

"And that person is me." 

Theo placed herself in the seat before her grand desk while hearing the surprising news.

"Without question. I've managed to secure a first time interview with one of the most fascinating men this world has ever known. You've heard of the Ross brothers?"

"The forefronts of biochemistry? They're easily the most sought after men in the country."

"Precisely. But they're no mere men. And all but one of them have been open about their life and goals. The very ruler of the seas, Poseidon. Finally, he's reached out to us for an exclusive piece on him. And of course, I've selected you for the job."

"I'm honored, but why us? Did he say why he chose us in particular?" 

"I didn't ask. You don't look a gift horse in the mouth." 

"My apologies then."

"None necessary. You do understand this has to be good, right? Don't mess up this rare opportunity. You're an excellent writer. Your honesty is what people love to see. It's raw, blunt, and influential. And for once it can take a load off."

"So you want me to write a puff piece for Poseidon. That's not like you or me."

"Just this once. It wouldn't hurt. Trust me, sometimes it's tough but we have to bend every now and then." Joan simply shrugged.

"I can't be dishonest with my readers. We have a chance to show the world who this man is. He knew that when he agreed to this. This is what the readers want. Isn't that important?" She argued.

For all she knew, the man could be a monster in the making or worse, an egotistical maniac who thought himself above everyone else because of his power.

"There won't be any readers if this goes wrong. We have a rare opportunity here, okay? This will be historic and I want us to be a part of that. Come on, Theo. I need you on this."

"Choose someone else. I'm sure many of my peers can do just as good. What good is my credibility if I compromise over one man?"

God, she internally corrected herself.

"That's a lie and you know it. Do it for me, okay? If it fails, it's my ass on the line here. It wouldn't kill you to be nice for once."

"Only on the inside."

"Quit being dramatic," Joan laughed, "He'll be here first thing tomorrow morning which gives you the chance to make a good first impression. After that, you are to shadow him for a while just to get a feel for the type of guy he is in his natural habitat."

"I thought this was just a simple interview. You didn't say I had to basically tag along with the guy!"

"It's not for long. I'm sure he'll want to get it over with as much as you do. It shouldn't take any longer than a week. We need this, Theo."

"Fine. But I want a bonus after this."

"You make it good and you can have anything you want."

"I'll hold you to that, Joan."

"You have my word.  What's on your agenda now?"

"Renatta Gilbert in five."

"Good. You have the rest of the day to yourself to prepare for Mr. Ross. See you first thing tomorrow morning."

"See ya."

The first thing she did once leaving her office was a quick pit stop back to the ever impatient Lisa who seemed to be awaiting her arrival.

"I have a favor to ask. But this remains confidential. Can you do that for me?"

"I am a walking gossip magazine. How the hell can I manage that?"

"Just do this one thing for me. Besides, I supply you with ninety percent of your info."

"That is true. What can I do for you?"

"Get me everything you know on Poseidon."

"Well, first of all, no one calls him Poseidon anymore. He is Ryan Ross."

"Good to know."

"Why him?"

"I'm curious. Seems like our mystery guest is a fan. I just want to get a good idea of who he is so I can better understand the subject."

"And the subject is..?" She asked with a growing smile.

Theo hated to let her down, but she couldn't risk being the reason the entire world knew of his identity. At least not so soon. 

"They shall remain confidential for now," Theo replied knowing very well she would be able to connect the dots.

But for now, all that mattered is that she kept it between the two of them for the time being.

"That's not fair. This job is boring without knowing all the good secrets." She all but whined.

"You'll be one of the first to know, I promise. Email me everything you can before the day is over, okay?"

"I'm on it. Have fun!" 

And that was the last she heard before speeding off to greet yet another important client.

--

Renatta Gilbert could only be described as a woman of few words. It was the main reason the world wanted to know more about what went on in her head. She would give a few speeches a year, head off on a charitable excursion, and then it was as if she never even existed. She'd then fall off the face of the earth doing do god knows what and hopefully, Theo could get just a peek inside her seemingly perfect life. The subject had just finished adjusting her stunningly perfect shoulder-length bob of chestnut waves when Theo hurried over to the table.

"So sorry for the delay, Ms. Gilbert. I'm-"

"Theodora Watson, a renowned journalist with a Pulitzer under your belt all under the age of thirty."

Renatta smoothly stretched her hand out and firmly shook Theo's whilst looked her over with an observant eye. 

"In the flesh. But that all pales in comparison to your work. I'm sure you hear it all the time." Theo quickly turned the attention back on the intimidating woman.

"Too much these days. It's like applauding a fish for swimming. Why reward me for doing what every person should strive to do?" Renatta replied.

"Because sadly, there aren't enough people like you. It's your work that inspires others."

"I see. Well, it seems as though you may be right. And I hope you don't mind that I ordered already and I didn't know what you would like."

"No problem. I don't normally eat when I'm in my interview mode."

"Great. Well, I'm a partially open book ready for whatever."

"Okay, let's start small. Late last year you proposed a bill that would enforce a requirement for all American citizens to perform a form of community service for an unspecified number of hours per week. So many have already been up in arms against such an idea. What's your response to that?"

"Well, I can't do anything but ignore the negativity. People are never going to agree on everything so it wasn't unexpected."

"You wouldn't see your idea as an unnecessary push? You can't force people to care."

"Not at all. Society doesn't always know what it needs without a little push and shove. Should it ever be put in place, people will come to see just how good it is when others have to make necessary decisions. It's not a job I asked for, but I'm not afraid to do what needs to be done."

"How do you mean? Would you say this is something chosen for you?"

"Precisely. Everyone has a purpose and I've known all my life what mine was. I will change this world for the better and one day the people will thank me for it." 

And something about the way she said those words shook Theo in a way she couldn't even describe. Never had she heard someone so sure of anything in her life.

"That sounds a bit-"

"Extreme? I know, but I wouldn't have it any other way."

"I see. Well, I think I've heard all I needed to hear for the article. It's been very nice to meet you, Ms. Gilbert."

"Renatta, please. And I feel the same way. You're truly something special Theodora and I hope to hear more from you." Renatta stated with shocking conviction.

"We'll see."

"I should say so. You may have heard but I hold annual galas to raise funds for my charitable foundations and I'd like to invite you to this year's event. It would be a great opportunity for you to rub shoulders with the people in my circle and perhaps see a more personal side of me."

"That's too kind. I wouldn't want to intrude."

"Nonsense. It's just a month away so I'll be sure to add you and a plus one to the list."

"Thank you so much, Renatta." 

"No problem. I'll keep in touch." Renatta said as she finished up her previously untouched meal.

"Of course. Until then."

And what that being said Theo rushed out of the restaurant and looked up to see a surprisingly darkening sky. She'd just made it back to her car when again she received a call from Alex which she quickly answered.

"Hey! The class starts in half an hour and a few of us were gonna meet up for drinks before going. Are you in?"

"I wish. After the day I've had I just feel like relaxing alone to recharge. I am just exhausted. I hope you understand." 

"Better than anyone. I'll save some cake for you. Sounds like you need it and I'm bringing it over for a much-needed sleepover tomorrow whether you like it or not. Understand?" 

And after such an intense interview, she could think of nothing better than a good ole kickback with her best friend. But tonight was all about her, her couch, and a glass of hot chocolate. Meanwhile, she also had to read over anything that would help understand the mysterious Ryan Ross

"Yes. I'd love nothing more. But tonight I just need to be alone."

"Alright, I love you, Theo."

"Love you more. Have fun!"

She checked her phoned one last time to see the email from Lisa had just arrived. And now with the rest of the day in mind, she sped home thinking of her couch the entire drive. 

Once she arrived home, her clothes fell off as soon as she'd made it into the door and she traded the tight wardrobe for an old shirt that fell to her thighs and a pair of knee-high socks that warmed her sore feet. Instead of dropping herself on her couch, she settled into her comfortable bed and laid back with her laptop propped up with Lisa's lengthy email waiting to be read with an image attached. And judging by the image, he was stunning. His piercing blue eyes felt as though they looked straight through her and were probably nothing compared to seeing them right in front of her. Unlike his brothers, he had a head full of sun-stroked blonde hair that he kept combed back, yet they stubbornly fell over into his eyes anyways. In the photo, his lips were pressed in a tight line that Theo felt never did move. And despite the seemingly intimidating stance the photo conveyed, she couldn't help but see a strikingly handsome man past the barriers.

Here you go Theo!, the first line of the email read.

I am undoubtedly the one and only source for every piece of information unknown to man but for the first time in my life, I am stuck with bits and pieces of unreliable information. Ryan Ross is easily one of the most mysterious men to ever walk across the earth. He's one of the most well-known entrepreneurs alive today but it's like he's a ghost. 

All that we know is what he wants us to know which is nothing besides being tight with his brothers and that's it. That is all we've ever gotten from his own lips. But, it seems we're not the first to try to take a dig into his life. I found early reports dating back to the 14th century. While they aren't very reliable and a bit all over the place, they can only describe the three brothers as conquerors who served one man more powerful than each of them combined. 

Somewhere along the way, their leader disappeared and they turned their lives around and decided to contribute their knowledge into fixing our previously unbeatable illnesses and more. I wish I could tell you more. But if I could say one thing, it is this: be very careful. They may no longer be the monsters first introduced to our world but what could he be hiding from the world that he wants to reveal now?

❝ Why me? Of all the women in the world, why choose a normal girl much different from your world? ❞

❝ It's simple. You make me feel human. I've done things, terrible things in my past, yet when I'm with you I no longer feel like the monster I once was. You are my purpose, my better half, and my soulmate. Nothing in this life or the next will ever change that. ❞

❝ They'll come for me now, won't they? ❞

❝ Yes. You are my greatest strength and my biggest weakness. They will rise from every corner of the world to take you away from me. ❞

❝ And what will we do then? ❞

❝ We'll fight. ❞
-
in which a man who's known nothing but darkness finds a light that he finds he can't live without

➿
17 Hours Before..



River Kennedi enters the relative calm of his small, shared Apartment Complex. A rundown space, with second hand Furniture and displays of amateur art. A place kept spotless, except for the litter of completed, half finished and discarded paintings and drawings. The only case of disarray, against the washed out, but immaculate decor. 

River whisked his Raven black hair, away from his face. Squinting his emerald green eyes, against the burning haze of oil paint and acetone. He kicked off his old converse Sneakers, shaking off his knapsack--discarding it on the floor beside his shoes. He yawned marginally, feeling his body grow fatigued as his clothes rustled. His baggy Denims and Pullover Hoodie, a size to big for his petite frame. 

His face was contrite with weariness, and his legs ached from working a twelve hour shift. Something he was accustomed to, yet still found the side effects to be entirely bothersome. 

A loud clang in the Kitchen echoed throughout the Apartment. Capturing River's attention as he shimmied out of his grey Pullover, dropping it on the old, cloth Couch. 

"Shit!" The voice of his Roommate followed shortly after, making River chuckle lightly as he walked towards the Kitchen. 

James Bordeaux, the Roommate,  was standing over a spilled bucket of Canvas paint. A gruff frown on his subtly handsome features. His dirty blond hair caught up in a messy ponytail, and his blue eyes scowling at the predicament he faced. 

The paint had splattered all over the low, wooden cupboards--forming a puddle on the tiled floors. It's bright tint leaving speckles of red across the small, old doors. 

"That's gonna be a little hard to remove," River said, jolting James out of his terrified trance. 

"River! Goddammit, you scared the crap out of me!" James exclaimed frowning--his British accent as deep and attractive, as his magazine worthy face.

"You'll get over it, once you get that mess cleaned up. We can barely afford to pay for this place as it is and I'm pretty sure Ms. Corrigan won't appreciate your splatter art all over her Kitchen Cupboards." River mused and James mocked his smile. 

"Ha ha, you're a bloody comedian." James deadpanned, entirely annoyed. 

"And you're a bloody mess." River faked a British accent, causing James's bushy eyebrows to scrunch up in confusion. 

"Are you going to help me or not?" James asked, his ocean blue eyes pleading. 

River scoffed lightly, knowing well that he needed rest for the next day to come. Another five hours at the Burger Joint, and the next few hours of daylight searching for a new Job. 

"Nope." River said, walking towards the Refrigerator. The only decent piece of electrical appliance in the small, stuffy Apartment. 

"I hate you," James griped out and River grinned. 

"I'll live with myself." River said, removing a bottle of spring water. "Besides, I need to rest. I have a long day ahead tomorrow. You know I'd have helped, if I wasn't so sleepy." 

"This is why you should have chosen Art as a Major, yah bloody wanker." James implored, watching River down the bottle of Water in just one go. 

"I don't think your Professors would appreciate my stick figures, and smearing of paint with my tiny and not so manly fingers. Enigmatic my ass." River scowled with a thoughtful glance at James who rolled his eyes. 

"Fine I'll do it my damned self, meanie." James sassed and River smiled, nudging James as he passed him. Careful not to step into the paint, that would have surely stuck to his feet for days. 

"Where's Cassie?" River asked, noticing that James' character of a Girlfriend wasn't around. "She's usually strolling around half dressed, speaking crazy and screaming at you." River grinned at James. 

"Watch it, Mr. I can't get a Boyfriend because I'm too busy with my Business Degree." James mocked in a freakishly squeaky voice, and River frowned at the inaccuracy of it. 

"Hey, I don't sound like that! And I sure as hell don't have time to be coddled and fondled by a man." River challenged, but James simply scoffed. 

"And I presume fondling yourself while you think I'm sleeping is better?" James grimaced at River, who's cheeks tinted in abysmal embarrassment. 

"Dammit those old, squeaky ass beds," River cursed under his breath. James only smirked at River's rant, but he instantly realized he was allowing the paint to dry. 

"At least you're man enough to admit it," James gibed, roaming through drawers for something to clean the mess with. 

"Shut your Pie-hole, and clean that paint up, Mr. Bordeaux." River retorted, throwing the empty, water bottle at James' head. 

"You bloody wanker!" James screamed as River sped-walked away. 

River loved the banter between him and James. It was the one thing he looked forward to, after a long day of rude customers and a nagging Boss. He however felt the urge to tell James that he had been fired, but he also hoped that the high paying internship that he had been contacted about, would be granted before he had to. 

It had been days since he submitted his resume. He thought of it almost every hour, which led to him being distracted. It also roused up a sudden confidence in him. A confidence that made River talk back at his Boss, Mr. Bash. Who then proceeded to fire him. He thought if only he had kept his mouth shut--then again. River was tired of being spat on, walked over and screamed at by a man whom was much shorter than him. A man who in James's most colorful opinion, was an Arsemonger.

•

River entered the cramped interior of his Bedroom. A rectangular space, with mismatched wooden, metal, and plastic furniture. He hurriedly stepping out of his Denims, grimacing at the sudden coldness--seeping through his pores. Caused by the stone floor, that was the same bland, cream color as the papered walls. Murky and as boring as River thought himself. A trait he hated, yet lived with because of his past. 

He discarded the Blue Denims atop his bed, yawning and covering his mouth. 

River huffed heavily as he fell backwards into the Bed--in his boxers and an old but favored Band Shirt. Frowning as the loud squeaking resonated throughout the entire Bedroom. He gazed up at the lightbulb in the ceiling, his facial expression neutral. 

He quickly fished his phone from his left pocket. Sliding the cracked screen across, hoping to find something interesting. He then decided to check his emails, a small twinge of hope, inspiriting within him. That hope burst into nauseating nervousness, as he saw the brand new email in his inbox. 

Titled; Black and Co. Application. 

He swiftly flew up, in a sitting position. His heart palpitating so loud, he could hear it beating as if within his eardrums. With a fidgeting thumb, he opened the email. But his mobile data seemed to be slowed down, as it usually did when his megabytes ran dry. 

So he waited ten seconds, but nothing. 

Another ten seconds, then his patience ran dry--yet still there was nothing. 

He opted to wait another ten, but he gave up after just three seconds, the moment he remembered his Laptop. The only thing in the Apartment, that was connected to the Neighbor's Wifi. 

"Crappy phone!" River cursed under his breath, dropping the cellphone on the Bed. 

He then rose to his feet, hurriedly striding towards his cluttered Computer Desk. Where his HP laptop sat, halfway opened. He hastily opened it up, narrowing his gaze as the screen lit up. Within seconds, he entered his password and smiled. For the screen was already on the email tab. 

He paused for a second, even more agitated than before. His head felt swollen, and he feared if he water any longer. 

His brain would explode. 

River squeezed his eyes shut, clicking the mouse once. He let out a dry huff of air, slowly opening one eye. 


From: Grace Keller, CFO. Black & Co. 
Received 12:55 pm. 
Subject: Re:Application.

After reading that first line, both of River's eyes opened. Peering at the screen, with squinty yet eager eyes. 

Hello Mr. Kennedi, 

           This reply is in regards to the Internship Application that you have submitted. I have to say I'm quite pleased with your Resume, and I look forward to you attending a scheduled Interview. 


An excited scream erupted from River's lips, but both his hands swiftly covered his mouth to stop himself. River looked around, to see if James was nearby--unable to contain his excitement. He soon squeaked almost inaudibly, continuing the email. 


I have taken the liberty of setting up an interview on the nearest date possible. I hope that you will be able to attend on such short notice. I am aware that you have been recommended, by a well known Professor at Lockwood University here in New York. 

However, I wasn't able to review your Application until earlier today, but it is to my understanding that it had been sent to us a week ago. 

My apologies for the wait, and I sincerely do hope that the chosen date of the Interview is convenient to your daily schedule. 

See below. 

January 21, 2016. 3:00pm. 

Looking forward to meeting you, Mr. Kennedi!

〰

River's eyes widened as he read the date out loud. He was finally rudely interrupted by James--bounding into the Room. A bottle of Jergens Lotion, clutched in his hands--almost defensively. 

"Umm," River grunted and James's frightened expression, changed to one of relief. 

"Thank heavens! I thought someone attacked you!" James said, clutching his chest with genuine concern written in his eyes. 

River however, glanced from James, to the bottle of Lotion in his hands. "So you came to my rescue with a bottle of Lotion." It was more of a statement than a question, and James frowned at the revelation. 

"Uhh, yes?" 

"What were you going to do?" River asked and James's left eyebrow rose in limpid puzzlement. "Moisturize them to death?" River queried, and James's gaze flattened. 

"Has this bloody thing ever been in your eyes?" James asked, walking into the Room. 

"No, it hasn't." River said, sounding a little bit concerned. 

"Oh, well." James dropped the bottle of Lotion on River's bed as he plopped down lazily. "The least you could do is say, 'thank you James, for coming to save me. What a true knight in shining armor you are." James recited, almost too dramatically and River groaned in angst. 

"Thank you James, for coming to my rescue with a bottle of Lotion, obviously almost empty due to your rigorous amounts of masturbation." River mused and James cocked an eyebrow in his direction. "Your beds are squeaky too." River smirked at James's horrified look. "But as you can see, I'm fine. Just excited." 

"That's what that girly scream was?" James asked, befuddled and River face-palmed himself roughly. 

"No, you moron, well, kind of!" River seemed confused, and James seemed even more baffled. "I'm excited because I got the Internship." River deadpanned finally and James scowled. 

"The Black & Co.?" He asked and River glared at him incredulously. 

"No, for Men.com." River muttered, "Yes! For Black & Co., twit!" River snapped and James glared at him, but it soon turned into a broad smile. 

"Now way!" James exclaimed excitedly and River grinned proudly. 

"Yes, way!" 

"I knew you would get it, babe!" James said confidently and River blushed, a big grin on his lips that hurt from smiling a bit too much. 

"The interview's tomorrow!" River said, rising from his seat and sitting down beside James. 

"Uhh, tomorrow, tomorrow?"James's smile faded, worrying River immensely. 

"Yes tomorrow," River answered, his smile fading a little as he saw the look on James's face. "Aren't you excited?" River asked with a pout and James sighed heavily. 

"I am, I am but-," he paused and River frowned marginally. "You have to go see your Mum tomorrow. You know that visits to that God- forsaken place is complicated enough as it is." 

River scowled as he pondered the outcome of not going to see his Mother. 

He considered not going, but the Hospital only allowed visits twice per week in that Ward. So River had a decision to make, and it was enough to down his spirits. 

"Ugh, you're right." River said, falling back on the Bed. 

James followed suit, and they both gazed up at the ceiling. River was lost in thought, and James opted to remain quiet. To give River time to think about his options, and come up with a solution to his problem.

"Do you think she'll wake up?" River asked and James shrugged. "What if she does and I'm not there?" He queried, but James didn't have the answers he sought after. 

"I don't know, babe." James sighed, his worry for his Best Friend, obvious and genuine. "This Internship is a once in a lifetime opportunity. If your Mother does wake up from her Coma, I'm sure she'll understand why you weren't there." James advised and River gritted his teeth, considering James' words deeply. 

"The Interview is at 3:00, and visiting hours starts at 2:30pm." River acknowledged, and James nodded. 

"Go see your Mother, if even for ten minutes then go to your interview. Your Mother lived her life, despite how terribly it turned out. Don't let anything stop you from living yours," James said as he rose from the Bed, nudging River's cheeks in the process. 

"Ok," River pursed his lips, rising up to a sitting position. 

"I'm going to make us some Pasta, and you can tell me all about this new internship." James grinned and River blushed lightly, smiling up at James. 

"Ok," River nodded and James rose an eyebrow at him. "Babe," River let out exasperated, and James pointed a finger at him--clearly pleased. 

River watched in angst as James exited the room--his feet pattering against the floor lightly. He then turned to his Laptop--a slight grimace masking his features. 


〰


Soundtrack - Remember I Told You by Nick Jonas ft. Anne Marie and Mike Posner

Highest Rank | #1 in the LOVEWINS category | Book FOUR of the Color Of Love Series. 

In the pursuit of happiness, River Kennedi inherits a new life through sheer luck, or quite possibly his own potential. His secrets, his vulnerabilities, and the very best of him, is brought out when Sebastian Black walks into his life. Bringing with him, just enough baggage and just enough of the real and genuine him to make his own place in River's heart. 

| CAUTION | - This story contains sexual relations between two MEN. If you aren't a fan of LGBT Stories, then Color Me Black ISN'T for you. 

This book or any portion thereof may not be reproduced or used in any manner whatsoever without the express written permission of the Publisher, except for the use of brief quotations in a book review.

Copyrighted Material. (Proof of Copyright- https://static.copyrighted.com/images/seal.gif )

Today, Old Master Lu was very happy. It could be said that all his gloominess from before had been swept away. Initially, he had been terrified to have taken on such a horrible form. Although he had told everyone he was an ice-cream, he had known exactly what sort of creature he looked like in his heart.
Everyone in the surroundings had been mocking him, telling him to evolve into a pile of shit...or simply a bag of fertilizer.
Truthfully speaking, in this game that didn't allow one to delete their accounts regardless of what they evolved into, he wasn't able to accept it!
After spending his time in agony for two days, he finally gathered the courage and went to ask the instructor as to what he would evolve into. In the end, when he moved nearer to the instructor, the overlord next to her already pointed at him and cried out in alarm, "Feathers, a ball of feathers!"
At that moment, his heart turned cold!
But in the end, the instructor's next sentence was that he was a phoenix seed. Upon hearing that, he suddenly felt joy as though he just struck the lottery!
Until now, he was still feeling dizzy.
(I am an awesome phoenix?)
(Wahahaha, as expected...the heavens help those who help themselves!)
(Didn't I say that I've been attracting online traffic every day with my posts for the game. Even if I didn't get any credit for it, I did still work hard, right? How can the game bear to let me evolve into shit?)
He, who was still lost in excitement and happiness, suddenly received an email from the official game station.
"Dear player [My ancestor Old Master Lu didn't Cheat]. Hello, firstly, the game's backstage staff want to thank you for your selfless promotion of the game. Through the discussion of the work team, in order to thank you for your support, we gave you a special reward, granting you the bloodline of a hidden job. You should have already received it in game. But yesterday, the game's A.I. reported that all the elf players displayed immense dissatisfaction toward you possessing a hidden job. Hence, we hope that you could write another article regarding the strategy guide about the benefits of ordinary elf jobs to placate them. As for the information needed, we have already sent it to your email. In the future, the work team will give you remuneration according to the effects of your guide. We also hope that you can continue to support our game. Thank you!"
Signing off: Xiye Game Studio, sincerely wishing you well.
After receiving the email, Old Master Lu was stunned for some time. He then shouted in excitement, "As expected!!"
After that, he read through the content of the email many times, tears flowing down his face. As expected, his hard work wasn't wasted. The game studio truly had a conscience. His ancestor must be blessing him, allowing him to acquire a hidden job.
When he thought of this, he hurriedly replied to the email.
"Hello to every boss in the gaming studio. Firstly, I am really very honored to be able to receive the recognition of the official game station. Being able to write for such a wonderful game product, it's really my, Lu Xiaowei's, glory to be able to do so. The humble me appreciates and admires the efforts of the work team very much. Such an era-crossing game yet still choosing to treat the players so well. In addition, there are no moods to purchase anything in-game at all, resulting in the loss of a source of income for the gaming studio. I'm really very impressed by the work team's far-sighted strategy and will definitely do my very best to promote the game. I'll give all my meager strength to do so, and there's no need for your side to mention anything about remuneration. Lastly, I'm very thankful for the work team to grant me a hidden job. I wholeheartedly wish for [Star Ocean] to be popular, becoming a wondrous divine work that would never die off!"
Old Master Lu glanced at the email he wrote. After looking through a few times, he then carefully hit the reply button. He didn't expect his actions to be able to gain the notice of the official game station. This was truly a huge surprise. The excited him hurriedly tactfully declined the mention of remuneration.
He didn't care about this bit of remuneration. The cafes of his Lu Clan were extremely prosperous back in the time of his ancestor. Although the business had declined a lot when it came to his generation, he still wasn't thinking much for this bit of remuneration. Comparatively, he regarded the business value of this game much more highly.
Right now, the game showed no signs of earning any income by creating an in-game store. Since this was the case, this meant it was most probably planning to go for the gift card system, a one-time fee or a monthly fee system!
What did this represent?
This represented a huge business opportunity for the players.
As for charging a fee for in-game items, those p2w players wouldn't mind mindlessly throwing money at the game station. But then the space where top-quality players could perform would become very limited. If the balance of the in-game store was not that good, there was basically no space for normal players to perform. But if this game adopted the game style of [Titan], which implemented a one-time fee, things would be different!
Everyone would be on the same starting line. In that case, players who had spent a large amount of time and energy would have the advantage. This would also be fair as top-quality players had an even larger space to perform!
Originally, he felt that he no longer had an opportunity to make his ancestor's former glory to re-appear as he missed the starting phase of [Titan]. Yet, he didn't expect that he would encounter another divine work like [Star Ocean] in his robust years, and he even received such preferential treatment. This time around, if he couldn't succeed, he would truly have wasted the bloodline of his clan!
After all, his ancestor was a man who could go head-to-head with the number one mid-laner, FAKER, of the league of legends back then and boasted of a 50% win-rate against him. So, as his descendant, how could Old Master Lu's talent be weak?
When he thought of this, Old Master Lu grew increasingly emotional. He drew in a deep breath and opened up the information that the official game station had sent to him. He was preparing to use the information and write a good article. Maybe, they would then give him some good items in-game to reward him. This was a rare-to-come by backdoor chance; hence, he had to do this well.
Moreover, his hidden job was truly too ostentatious. Humans wouldn't worry about scarcity but uneven distribution. This hidden job of his would easily arouse jealousy in others. By writing this article well, he could lower the risks for himself.
Hence, he concentrated and read through the information. This read actually caused him to tremble. The system of this game was not ordinarily huge. If it wasn't because the game's performance in the early phase was so good, he even doubted if the game system could sustain balance when so many complex jobs were introduced. Just the elf race alone had so many jobs. There was even a note in the email saying that there would be even more races to choose from for new players in the future!
The more he thought about it, the higher the anticipation he felt in his heart for the game's later phase!
----------------------------------------
On the other hand, Xiye felt a little ashamed when he saw Old Master Lu's reply which stated that he didn't want any remuneration. Using his subject's natural talent like this while giving him nothing, even scamming him that his evolution into a phoenix seed was something given by the 'game', was this idea a little too dirty?
Could he really be a black-hearted overlord?
(Mn...This is just a makeshift stratagem due to my temporarily poor finances. In the future, when this overlord struck it rich, I will definitely treat these honest and simple indigenous players kindly.)
"Ding! Hello, respected Overlord Xiye. The few high-grade jobseekers you booked have already confirmed their interview timings. Do you want to meet with them?"
This voice caused Xiye who was thinking of other things to awaken from his stupor. After that, he collected his thoughts. This should be the reply sent to him by the talent network. He hurriedly opened up the email.
He read through the content. It basically stated that the recommended high-grade instructors were willing to meet him for an interview. Xiye felt his heart shake with excitement when he saw this. He stood up and rubbed his hands. He then instructed the A.I. to help him monitor the elves' evolution. He then prepared himself and headed out for a long journey.
As long as all of these things were settled, his first batch of basic combat force would appear and his large-scale expansion plan could finally be started!


Player: I'm a worker whose monthly salary doesn’t even hit $5,000. My monthly rental already takes up half of my salary, I don’t have a girlfriend and is reprimanded by my superior every day. However, I feel very happy because there has been a new virtual game recently. In the game, I have a powerful bloodline. Not only do I have my own fleet, I even have a powerful overlord that granted me a colonized planet. Although I know this is fake, but inside there, I found the meaning of my life!
Actually...the overlord who gave him the planet really wanted to tell him that this game wasn’t fake. (You really have your own fleet and colonized planet…) but the overlord knew that he couldn’t say this. Because, once he said it, these subjects who thought of themselves as ‘players’, would definitely not be as terrifyingly hardworking as now!!


Connor Jackson. These two words make every girl go crazy, screaming and begging for a chance to meet him. He's the world's most popular pop star, and has finally made it to where he can headline his own tour. 
Katelyn Jackson. Nobody has ever heard of her, unless you're in the soccer business. She's a lean, mean machine on the soccer field; she knows how to get the job done. And she also happens to be the younger sister to the great Connor Jackson.
So when everything seems to be falling in place for her soccer dream, it's just in time for her parents to break the news to her. She's going on tour with Connor. No matter how much she begs, cries, and pleads, her parents won't bend, and she finds herself forced to travel the United States with her pop star brother, leaving her soccer dream behind.
But when she gets to meet the lead singer, Zach Matthews, of one of her brother's opening acts things don't seem so bad anymore...

Gun-Ho's request to establish a company had been approved.
As instructed by the certified legal consultant's office, Gun-Ho brought all the documents necessary in order to register his company to the tax office such as the certificate of business formation, the articles of incorporation, the share certificates, and the lease agreement for the office.
"Is the office-tel owner the same person as the company CEO?"
"Correct. The company will lease the office-tel from an individual, which is owned by myself."
"I see."
The tax office staff quickly registered Gun-Ho's new company.
"It was very quick."
Before coming back to his home, Gun-Ho placed an order for his business card with his job title—CEO after verifying the design of the card displayed on the computer screen, and also had the company stamp made, that would be registered later.
"Even a small tiny deli that is newly opened gets congratulatory flowers and stuff. Should I tell everyone that I opened a company? Nah, let's not. I don't do that kind of stuff."
 
Everything was ready for Gun-Ho to run the company.
"I received my business card and business registration. The Internet and fax are working now. So, everything is all set. I just need a business item."
Gun-Ho took a nap in his comfy executive office chair. Gun-Ho's office looked really nice; Gun-Ho spent some money on decorating his office.

Gun-Ho finally purchased a OneRoomTel in Seocho Town under the company's name. It was 320 million won.
"This OneRoomTel has 50 rooms with a shower facility, fire-fighting system, and HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning). And it's clean."
The rent for a room here was 400,000 won per month. Most residents were office workers working in the vicinity of the OneRoomTel. Gun-Ho was told there was no person like a derelict living in the building, who was often found in a cheap OneRoom.
The current owner was a retired government worker.
"Most of the rooms here are already occupied. The current occupancy rate is 90%. This OneRoomTel is popular among office workers who have to stay in the area because of their work and if their home is in a province. It is preferable compared to other OneRoomTels in the area because of good amenities."
 
Gun-Ho started calculating.
'The monthly rent per room is 400,000 won. There are 50 rooms, so the monthly income would be 20 million won if fully rented out. Currently, 90% of the rooms are occupied, so that would be 90% of 20 million won which is 18 million won. If I subtract my rent and the pay to the residential manager and other expenses, I would make about 13 million won. Assuming the owner exaggerated a bit about the occupancy rate then I would probably make at least 10 million won per month.'
Guessing that Gun-Ho was calculating the expected monthly income from this OneRoomTel, the owner tried to be chatty.
"I used to have 100% occupancy rate here before when there were many female workers living in this area who worked at a bar during night time."
"Female workers working in a bar?"
"Yes. There used to be a lot of those people in this area, but not anymore though because of the crackdown on those types of business. But still, this OneRoomTel has very high occupancy rate. You can ask the residential manager."
Gun-Ho talked with the residential manager.
He was a second-year law school student; he looked about five years younger than Gun-Ho. Gun-Ho was actually considering asking Min-Hyeok to work with him at the OneRoomTel, but he now thought that maybe he should keep the same residential manager who had already been working here.
"Where did you go to college?"
"A national university in a province."
"Hmm, I can't come here often so please take good care of the business."
Gun-Ho gave his business card to the residential manager. The residential manager humbly took his card with his two hands.
 
Gun-Ho kept searching on the Internet to buy another OneRoomTel.
"Once I acquire three OneRoomTels, I'd better hire a worker who can manage the OneRoomTel business. I shouldn't waste my time visiting the OneRoomTels regularly and taking care of tedious matter there. I'd better spend my time looking for another good business opportunity. I can bear the cost of hiring one or two workers."
 
Gun-Ho posted a job advertisement for two positions on WorkNet: one for a position related to real estate, and the other one was for someone who could handle bookkeeping and the Four Major Public Insurance. He didn't add any requirement on age, academic degree, gender or work experience.
After the due date for submitting the applications, Gun-Ho checked the resumes he received through his email, and he was surprised by the number of applications he received.
"Wow, all these people want to work here."
The economy was truly not doing well. There were over 50 resumes that arrived at Gun-Ho's email inbox.
 
Gun-Ho at first reviewed the applications for the real estate related position. Most of the applicants had a real estate license with work experience in real estate planning and development, or real estate sales.
"I prefer to work with someone who's earnest and has no ethical issue, rather than someone who has extensive work experience in the field."
Gun-Ho selected one applicant for an interview. That applicant used to work in a bank as a deputy general manager, and he then opened his own realtor's office after obtaining the realtor license.
"He retired at the age of 48 which seemed to be a bit early. It has been a year since he opened his realtor's office. That means he is not doing anything now. He looks nice in the picture."
Gun-Ho sent a text message to him inviting him for an interview.
 
As to the bookkeeping position, one candidate, who had one-year of work experience in bookkeeping and handling the Four Major Public Insurance at an exam preparatory private institution, drew Gun-Ho's attention.
"I might think differently if I see this candidate in person, but she looks nice and stable in the picture. She is living in Bongcheon Town which is a good distance to commute to my office. She can take the subway line 2 and get off at Gangnam Station; it's a convenient ride. She is 27 years old, but she wouldn't probably marry soon since these days people tend to marry at a later age. She has a certificate of computerized accounting with several computer-related certificates. Oh, she listed an award she received from high school." Gun-Ho chuckled.
 
It was the interview day. Gun-Ho planned to have an interview with the candidate for the real estate position first, and on the following day, he would meet with the bookkeeper position candidate for her interview.
The candidate who used to work in a bank arrived for an interview.
"I see that you used to work in a bank as a deputy general manager. Did you retire from banking work or quit the job because of your business?"
"I retired."
"Did you open the realtor's office right after you retired?"
"Correct."
"And, it didn't work out?"
"I actually obtained my realtor license when I was still working in the bank. I thought I wouldn't have any problem making money after my retirement since I had the realtor's license. But that was not the case. I eventually closed my realtor's office after paying the office rent for two years without making any money."
"So, after you closed the realtor's office, you didn't get another job?"
"I tried to get a job, but I couldn't find any office work. If you give me an opportunity to work here, I would work hard and do my best."
"How many family members do you have if you don't mind me asking?"
"I am married, and I have a daughter who is a senior in high school."
"As you already know, this is a startup company; I just opened it. So, I can't pay you much now. How much do you require working here?"
"I will be fine with about 2 million won per month."
"Hmm, you seem to be a very nice person, and you have many computer related certificates as well. I will have to think about it and will let you know about my decision through a text message."
"Thank you, sir, for your time."
The candidate gave a 90-degree bow to Gun-Ho before he left the office.
 
The next day, a female candidate came to Gun-Ho's office for an interview for the bookkeeper position.
"Is this GH Development?"
"Yes, it is."
"I am here for an interview."
The lady handed papers to Gun-Ho after pulling them out form a large envelope she carried.
"What is this?"
"These are copies of my various certificates."
"They are a lot. Please have a seat."
"What kind of software application did you use when you worked in accounting at the exam preparatory institution?"
"I didn't use any accounting program there. It was a small private institution."
Her response reminded Gun-Ho of his old days working at Bangil Gas. He worked in accounting at that time, but all the work was done manually. That company was small as well.
"Hmm, have you handled the Four Major Public Insurance?"
"Yes, I am actually very good at that work."
"How much did you get paid at your previous work?"
"My monthly pay was 1.8 million won. I worked five days a week and also worked every Saturdays."
"From your home in Bongcheon Town, you only need to take the subway once, right?"
"Right. It's very convenient to commute for me."
The lady smiled broadly. Gun-Ho liked her smile.
"By the way, what kind of business does this company do?"
"We do various things such as OneRoomTel leasing service and real estate auction."
"Oh, I see. Are there… many people applying for the job?"
"Yes, there are quite a lot."
The female applicant looked worried when Gun-Ho told her there were many applicants for the same position.
"Okay, thank you for coming. I will let you know through a text message."
The applicant gave a 90-degree bow to Gun-Ho and walked out of the office quietly.
Gun-Ho decided to hire both candidates: the one who used to work in a bank and this female candidate.

This is the story of a poor young man whose poverty even shreds apart their family willing to climb his way through society and into the top. A very realistic novel that moves away from fantasy and sci-fi and focuses solely on the issues of society and life.

With Lou Cheng's insane hearing ability, it didn't take him any extra effort to hear He Zi and Yan Xiaoling's conversation clearly. He almost let out a laugh. 
Some people are walking jokers, and some are walking jokes… 
He nodded, his face not giving anything away. "I'll review the email and think of a proper reply."
"Thanks, Senior," smiled He Zi. 
When he got back to his room, Lou Cheng put the email matter aside and sent a text to Yan Zheke. 
"What did you make of your brother's words?" 
Her reply came quickly, with a "chin resting on hands" emoji. 
"Um… He's probably found a new goal. Back then, he used to train in martial arts like crazy. He was intent on realizing Uncle's unfulfilled dream of leading Songcheng Uni Martial Arts Club to the championship. For that, he was willing to go to any length."
"After achieving that goal, he might have lacked motivation. At least, that's what I think… After all, no one throws themselves into practicing martial arts for the sole purpose of getting stronger. Even if such people existed, they would need some sort of…stimulus."
She sent a block of text, so it was only wise for Lou Cheng to agree. 
"You're right. The Dragon King's objective is pure, but he too needed a stimulus. That was for the Warrior Sage to reach his current level."
"My cousin has probably found a new life purpose in the war-torn zones. Or at least that's what I think. [nods slowly]" said Yan Zheke. 
"That's good news," said Lou Cheng, heaving a sigh of relief as his mind went to the past. "If your cousin uses this opportunity to make the great leap, then he won't be in too much danger, even in the war-torn zones."
"…As someone known as the God of Disaster and Calamity, you aren't really qualified to say that. [blank stare]" said Yan Zheke. 
To this, Lou Cheng could only sigh. 
... 
At 11am the next day, the rides arranged by the committee punctually arrived at the hotel entrance. Lou Cheng had the privilege of having an entire car to himself, which may or may not have been intentional. 
The party was to be held at the historic Twilight Hotel and included a buffet. The moment he stepped into the hall, Lou Cheng saw the president of University Martial Arts Union, the elderly Mr. Fang Jinyu. He also saw the principal of Songcheng University, his master's friend Mr. Dong, a man whose full name remained unknown to him. Apart from them were the mayor and a few other important figures.
"Haha! Here comes the model student of your university," said the mayor to Principal Dong, pointing at Lou Cheng. 
Lou Cheng and his lot went forward and greeted them in unison. "Good morning Principal Dong."
After that, they greeted Mr. Fang and the others. No matter what, politeness was essential. 
After exchanging platitudes, Principal Dong looked at Lou Cheng and laughed. 
"Your master often told me he was going to educate you by giving you setbacks and putting you through hell. Seems to me like his plans never succeeded."
What the…to think my master had such sinister intents, thought Lou Cheng, surprised and amused. 
However, he didn't let these emotions override his smile. 
"That's not entirely true, Principal Dong. My crucial turning point did stem from a setback," said Lou Cheng, defending his Master's image. 
Principal Dong nodded, smiling. 
"Jianguo has gotten himself a good disciple."
Somewhere in Moshang City, Geezer Shi was enjoying his wine as he listened to a play. 
Suddenly, he heard a line that went:
"The worst in life…to keep bad company, to have an unfilial disciple…"
Tsk, Geezer Shi clicked his tongue. 
Couldn't have put it better myself, he thought. 
Lou Cheng chatted idly with Principal Dong and the other seniors on the subject of his master. Without realizing, they had formed a circle, occasionally taking drinks and snacks proffered by passing waiters. 
"I'm going to go get something to eat," said Lou Cheng, hearing the soft growl of his tummy. Smiling, he retreated from the circle. 
He then realized that his friends were all occupied. Some stuffed their faces, some chatted with their acquaintances who were association managers, coaches, and teachers from other universities, and some chit-chatted with other guests and contestants. Everyone had their own circle. 
Everyone but Lin Que. Plate in hand, he stood at the edge of the balcony, the door shut behind him. In this boisterous place, he had segregated a spot of quiet serenity. 
"As expected from a man who stays true to himself, regardless of his environment," laughed Lou Cheng. He carelessly added food to his plate, planning to join his cousin-in-law for a chat about the war-torn zones on the balcony after he filled his plate. 
Just as he was going to add more, he saw a familiar silhouette. It was Shu Rui, the reporter, dressed in a nightgown that offered a view of her milky shoulders. 
"What a coincidence," said Lou Cheng casually. 
"I wouldn't call it a coincidence, since I rushed here all the way from Huahai. In fact, I had Xiaoling forward an email to you beforehand." 
"You aren't based in Songcheng anymore?" said Lou Cheng, surprised. 
From what she said, that seemed to be the case. 
Shu Rui wrinkled her nose. 
"Yeah. I ended up going there on a whim. Huahai TV is nationally acclaimed, after all!" 
Their acquaintanceship wasn't at the level of a heart-to-heart talk, so Lou Cheng didn't probe further. 
"I read your proposal for the new show. It's pretty interesting. But are you sure I'm the right person for this?" he said. 
The show Shu Rui had proposed was "A Day with a Physical Invulnerability Expert," which wasn't going to be limited to fights and interviews, but would also explore the daily lives of Mighty Ones. 
To most people, this was an interesting and curiosity-piquing subject. Just like how farmers in olden times wondered about the life of an Emperor, snack-munching audiences would be able to embellish their Physical Invulnerability daydreams with the details from this show. 
"Why would you say that? I think you're great! You had the air of a general even during our first interview!" said Shu Rui uncomprehendingly, furrowing her brows slightly. 
"Um. What I mean is, my daily life is rather boring," said Lou Cheng. It was an honest, if self-deprecating, answer. 
"Nah, trust me. Nowadays, people's lives are so hollow they would watch others eat and sleep. Imagine how they'll respond to the life of a Physical Invulnerability Expert! No matter how boring, people will still watch it," said Shu Rui confidently, shaking her hand. 
Then, with a sincere expression, she said, 
"For the first season, I'm planning on inviting ten Physical Invulnerability Experts. Even though our TV station has some resources, I'm afraid that the other Mighty Ones might not find me trustworthy and will turn down the offer. If you could start the ball rolling, then they'll think, 'Oh, so Lou Cheng's in on this too'. Then they won't be so against the idea anymore." 
Lou Cheng pondered for a moment.
"Fine. But don't say I didn't warn you. You can contact the Longhu External Affairs Team and ask for my assistant." 
"Okay!" nodded Shu Rui excitedly. She then gave a mesmerizing smile. "Mhm…'Ask for my assistant', huh? Aren't you the big fish now?" 
Lou Cheng let out a chuckle. Pointing to the balcony, he said, 
"I have something to attend to, do excuse me." 
Looking in the direction he pointed in, Shu Rui smiled faintly. 
"Sure." 
When Lou Cheng had turned around, she peered at the balcony on her tip-toes. 
"So, the Conversation Killer's here too?" she mused to herself. 
... 
7pm. Opening Ceremony, Inter-University Martial Arts Nationals. 
When President Fang and Principal Dong had given their speeches, the host drew a breath and raised her voice.
"And now, let us put our hands together for a group of heavyweight VIPs." 
"I present to you…" 
Her words were drowned out by the thunderous volume of the audience. 
"Lou Cheng!" 
Following which, people chanted,
"Lin Que!" 
The audience shouted their names one after the other, exactly how the host had introduced the roster. 
"Songcheng Uni! Songcheng Uni!" they shouted at last. "Champions! Champions!" 
Backstage, Lou Cheng and the others were overcome with emotion, as though they had returned to the days when their blood boiled with passion. Even their bodies were shaking slightly. 
"Looks like they haven't forgotten about us…" said Xiao Ming, pretending to be unaffected. 
"Happy? Touched?" asked Lou Cheng, amused. 
Cai Zongming was silent for a few seconds. Forfeiting his calm facade, he took a deep breath. 
"Very." 
When he said that, the others' eyes reddened. Softly, they chanted along.
"Songcheng Uni! Songcheng Uni!" 
"Champions! Champions!" 
... 
Keeping his emotions contained, Lou Cheng glanced at his cousin-in-law, who had already turned his face away. 
They marched out in a file, welcomed by even louder cheers when they were on the stage. 
When the audience calmed down, the host smiled brightly. 
"They are the legends of the Inter-University Martial Arts Nationals, the team which took only two years to go from rock-bottom to renowned champions!" 
"And now, the legacy continues among them, with one of them now a Physical Invulnerability Expert, and perhaps more to come in the future!" 
"They were the champions three years ago. They are the pride of Songcheng University, and the pride of Songcheng! I hereby present to you, the full roster of Songcheng University Martial Arts Club!" 
In the residual chants of "Champions! Champions!" the host walked to Lou Cheng and smiled. 
"I'm going to interview everyone, one at a time." 
"Lou Cheng, you are one of the most successful ones to grace the Inter-University Martial Arts scene, the idol and role model of many. Is there anything you would like to say to your lovely juniors?" 
Taking the microphone, Lou Cheng reminisced for a moment. 
"On the path of martial arts, luck is as important as hard work." 
"First off, I'm not trying to pour cold water on all of you. What I'm about to tell you are just facts of the martial arts industry." 
"On the path of martial arts, without good guidance, consistent hard work, and a decent set of techniques, only one or two out of ten have a chance at getting to professional ninth-pin. Even then, many don't make it in the end. With an amateur pin certificate, they might have better chances of getting jobs and having stable lives, but there isn't much more to it." 
"Professional ninth-pin is the point where you will truly feel like a martial artist, the stage where you can show off your charm before your crushes. Your income will reach middle-class level. However, there is limited room for growth, unless you make it to Dan Stage."
"From professional ninth-pin to Dan Stage, even if you inherit good techniques, only one or two out of ten will make it. Beyond that, Inhuman is another bottleneck, and the number of people who eventually make the great leap is merely a handful." 
"And that's about it. If you really want to walk down this path, then it's best for you to know that you will likely end up as a low amateur pin. If your education fails to reach a certain standard, your future will be limited to a small city. It's a lot less rosy than what you might expect." 
"Alright, I've said enough, so here's one last thing. If you make a decision solely based on passion, I call it imprudence, not courage. A true warrior, a true martial artist, is a person who follows their dreams unwaveringly after thinking through the risks and difficulties." 
"That's what I wanted to tell you." 


Here martial arts are no longer intangible legends. They have been passed on from generation to generation and from century to century. After the confrontation with science and technology, they have completely integrated into modern society and all kinds of martial arts competitions are taking place across the country as superiority among scholars are hard to reach a consensus but not as difficult among martial artists!
Lou Cheng has inherited the lost skills of the greatest martial arts sect. Towards his original dream and the glory in his heart, he advances step by step, becoming the warrior of this modern city and the hero of the era!

+++
Sylvester dropped the landline receiver after speaking
with Agent Dakolo, he sat back into his seat, trying to
decide whether to attend to the Agent's request first or to
follow after Henry. He chose the latter and got up from
his seat. He picked up his phone from the table and
proceeded out of the office.
Two minutes later, he was seated in the visitor's seat
behind Henry's table. Henry wasn't paying much
attention to him but was focused on his work on the
laptop.
'Here's what I wanted to show you' Henry quickly handed
a paper to Sylvester and turned back to his laptop. 'How
was the interview? What position did she apply for?'
Henry asked.
'There was no interview' Sylvester answered without
taking a look at the paper he was handed. 'She only came
to submit her credentials in person'
'I see' Henry said in a low voice, acting less interested.
'You thought I invited her over for an interview?'
'Yes, of course. You are the Boss here and you don't need
my permission to interview anybody' Henry answered
with a slight chuckle.
'But we already agreed to work with those available and
not to take in anyone else for now. I wouldn't go against
our agreement'
Henry paused and looked up, he fastened his eyes on
Sylvester's face. 'I didn't suggest that in anyway' He said
and turned his face back to the laptop. 'Oh! You thought
that was the reason I didn't agree to see her?'
'What else could be the reason?'
'I wasn't aware of the interview before, neither do I know
the position the interview is for so I didn't think I had any
business to do with her' Henry answered, keeping a light
smile on his face.
Sylvester remained quiet for a while, staring at Henry's
face. He had thought Henry was angry but Henry's
demeanor and words have proved him wrong.
'So what do you …' Henry paused on seeing that Sylvester
had not checked the paper given to him. 'Come on, read
what's there'
Sylvester picked the paper and scanned briefly through
it. 'When did you start working on this?'
'It wasn't my work, Dayo did it' Henry replied. Dayo was
the new employee that was taken in the week before.
'It looks good but we have to find how crackable these
codes are' Sylvester commented.
'That's why I was in your office then, I wanted to check
through your history log but I've been able to check it
from here'
'So, are they crackable?'
'Yes, it's even made up of very easy combinations'
'Does that make it usable or not?'
'It's not usable. It would be easily cracked by the
opposition'
Sylvester folded the paper and dropped it on the table.
'Agent Dakolo called some minutes ago, he'll be here in
the afternoon to get a report on all that we've been doing
concerning the breach we've been experiencing'
'Okay, I've been expecting him to ask for it. I prepared a
report already and he doesn't even need to come here,
we could mail it to him' Henry said.
'I think he'll also like to get some explanations, that's why
he wants to come physically' Sylvester put in.
'No problem, we'll be ready for him'
'So what do we do now with Mr Dayo's piece?' Sylvester
asked as he got up from the chair, ready to leave for his
office.
'We'll just keep it and keep working, we need something
deeper' Henry tapped the enter key on her laptop
keyboard in a loud manner and then relaxed into his
seat, signifying that he was through with what he was
doing. He stared up at Sylvester's face. 'You know we are
trying to entrap this group, so we have to be wiser than
they are. We cannot afford to use simple keys and scripts
in tackling them, that'll be making mockery of ourselves'
'Alright then' Sylvester shrugged and turned to leave.
~~~
**Kabakawa, Batagarawa Katsina, Katsina State. **
After lodging in an hotel for two days, the team finally
moved into the rented apartment for which they had
paid the rent fee for a year. The house wasn't too
expensive but it was big enough to contain all of them. It
was already furnished to their taste before they moved
in.
They had chosen a flat with three bedrooms in the two
storey building house with a total of six flats. Theirs was
located by the left side on the middle floor. Tarasha had
carefully chosen an apartment for them in an open area
this time, it would reduce the rate of unnecessary
suspicions. But they also had to be extra careful and
watchful.
It was Monday morning and work had begun already.
Cole was seated behind a table, composing an email on
his laptop to inform the Ata's foundation of their team's
arrival into the country. Benny was in one of the rooms
where he and Cole had chosen for themselves, arranging
the new arms and ammunitions into the wardrobe. He
neatly arranged the various sizes of bullets and sealed
explosives in a section. He arranged the pistols in another
section and long guns in another. The last section was
used to store his clothes and Cole's.
Aisha was also in her room, setting the place in the order
she wanted. She hissed on seeing the little bag of clothes
which she brought to the place. Although the bag was
actually the biggest bag amongst all bags of clothes the
team had brought, she still thought it to be small. Their
kind of job would not satisfy her desire to always take
her best clothes around town.
She hissed again as she saw herself in the mirror on
bending to arrange the makeup kits placed in front of the
mirror. What did she even need the clothes for now that
her hair was gone? She looked like a man, she thought.
She gave a brief mockery laugh at herself as she rubbed
her palms on the head. She then turned back to pick a
small case which contained more makeup kits. That
wasn't for her but for the team, the team would
frequently need to change their appearances on this
operation. Another small bag was lying beside the case, it
contained camouflage materials like artificial beards,
masks, wigs and even skinlike gloves.
Benny walked into the living room after he was done with
arranging the tools, he met Cole already closing his
laptop.
'Have you finished typing the email?' He asked as he
moved to sit on the couch.
'Yes, we'll see it when we come back from the boutique'
Cole answered, standing up with his closed laptop in his
hand.
'You want us to go now?' Benny seemed not too
comfortable with the idea.
'Yes, what else should we do now?'
'Why don't you send the email now and let's see their
reply, they may probably engage you in a chat' Benny
tried to convince Cole.
'I've sent the mail to the Boss first for vetting, until she
replies us we cannot forward it to the foundation' Cole
responded with a wry look on his face. 'Dust your lazy a-s
and let's go out to get the clothes now. I'll go get Aisha.'
With that Cole walked away, leaving Benny who remained
on the seat tiredly. For Benny, it was always fun to get
new clothes but this one was different, the clothes would
have to be disposed off at the end of the operation.
~~~
**Abuja**
2pm
'You went this far?' Dakolo stared Henry in the face as he
read the report provided to him. 'Even the US CCTV
officials have not discovered up to this, nice job' he
commended cheerfully jamming his palms together.
'Thank you sir' Henry smiled.
'The only thing that looks similar in this their report is…'
Dakolo began but stopped abruptly. He bent to bring out
the report from the US CCTV from his small brief case
which was placed by the leg of the chair he was seated.
He placed the binded four pages report on Henry's table.
Sylvester was the first to pick up the report and open it.
Dakolo opened back Henry's report which was still in his
hands. He began to flip the pages until he got to the last.
'Here' he said, pointing a particular area on the page.
'This code looks similar to theirs'
Henry bent forward to look at where Dakolo was
pointing. Dakolo handed it over to him to have a better
view.
" BN 10354
' Encrypt XL
<< — t.a.r– n.e.f — >>
Run script = enter '
>>"
That was one of the most mysterious encryption code
Henry had ever come across. He had never seen the key
words anywhere else before and since he discovered the
script, he not been able to decrypt it.
Dakolo collected the report Sylvester was holding and
opened to the second page. 'Here ' he pointed another
area to for Henry to look at. The encryption script Henry
saw in the US report was similar to the one in his report.
"BN 20679
'Encrypt XL
<< — s.e.r— n.e.f — >>
Run script = enter '
>>"
'What??' Henry's lips vibrated as he fixed his eyes on the
code, looking slightly baffled. He took his eyes off to
Dakolo face. 'The assassin group is larger than we
thought, it's a worldwide organization'
Dakolo licked his lips slowly and silently as he watched
Henry fix his eyes again to the report.
'Can I…' Sylvester who was anxious to see the correlation
stretched forth his hand impatiently to collect the
reports from Henry.
'So now that we know that we are dealing with a
worldwide assassin group, we have to up our game'
Dakolo finally spoke. 'Your engineers have to be
informed about what they are dealing with. And I think
the corporation has to establish a strong connection with
the US corporation'
'Wow! I wasn't aware that there have been breaches in
the CCTV operations in the US too' Henry spoke in low
tones, relaxing his back in the seat.
'There have been' Dakolo replied him, tapping a finger on
the table as he stared into the air and inhaled. 'The breaks
always comes during the period of assassinations just like
ours'
'Hmm… Same strategies, same codes' Henry said
thoughtfully.
Dakolo stared at Henry's face for a moment. 'Henry E.G, I
need to ask you some questions' Dakolo stated after a
brief moment of silence.
Henry sat upright and adjusted himself to pay attention,
surprised at the Agent's sudden change of tone. 'What
questions sir?'
'You were kidnapped recently' Dakolo paused and stared
at Henry's face, noticing a change. It was obvious to him
that Henry wasn't comfortable with the new subject.
'Yes sir' Henry confirmed reluctantly.
'It happened after you got a job from the late Chief Jubril
Lawal?' Dakolo continued, making sure he maintained
eye contact with Henry. Henry noticed this and decided
to try as much as possible to hide his expressions, else
the Agent would extract every information from him
even if he tried to lie.
'Yes, I don't know if the job was for Chief Jubril but it was
brought to us by one of his workers' Henry answered.
'Chief Jubril sent him' Sylvester quickly put in.
Dakolo took a glance at Sylvester and fixed his eyes back
to Henry's face. 'Let's talk about your abduction first. It
lasted for less than a day. How did you escape?'
'I was told that they left us to go after they had a
disagreement amongst themselves' Henry replied.
'You were told?'
'Yes, I was knocked out. I only opened my eyes after
we've moved far away from there'
'You and your girlfriend?'
'No, but a very close lady friend'
'Well, I don't need to go into details of how you were
abducted that day. I know that you have been questioned
about that already.' Dakolo adjusted to a more
comfortable seating position and placed his chin on his
right fist. 'You mentioned during your interrogation with
the police that your suspect was Dare, Chief Jubril's son?'
'Yes' Henry confirmed with a nod.
'But you didn't mention to me that you've seen him
recently' Dakolo frowned.
'Sir, we've not really been able to discuss personal
matters since you came into town'
'That's true.' Dakolo paused and turned to Sylvester who
was already clearing his throat to announce his desire to
leave since he felt he wasn't concerned with the
questioning.
'Mr Sylvester' Dakolo called with a chuckle. 'You have to
wait, I also have some questions for you too.' Sylvester
nodded in reply and comported himself. Dakolo turned
back to Henry.
'Let's push the personal matters aside for now' Dakolo
continued with Henry. 'Did you ever think that the kidnap
could be related to the job brought by the late Chief's
PA?'
'No' Henry replied sharply after narrowing his eyes
thoughtfully.
'You don't think so?'
'Yes, I don't' Henry shook his head in negative to
emphasize. He thought again briefly. Omotara was the
suspect behind the number he was investigating, so was
it really possible that she had planned their kidnap.
'So you insist that it could have only been Dare Lawal?'
Dakolo pressed. 'Wait' he cut in before Henry could
speak. 'What was the result of your investigation?'
Henry's heartbeat increased thrice in speed. The question
he was scared of have been finally asked. Was he now
going to turn Omotara in? Knowing fully well that Agent
Dakolo would not stop until he fishes out who Alexander
Evelyn really was and probably even associate her with
the Chief's assassination which Henry believed Omotara
was innocent about.

This story is about a Lady Assassin who was
trained in Russia, specially skilled in the art and
carrying out the job with no fears, restraints or
apologies.
She became so powerful and was greatly feared
by several of her male counterparts, including
some of the masters who trained her. She hated
so many things, God was number one on her
hatred list.
She came down to Nigeria and was still involved
in her profession until she met someone who
was willing to help her start a new life.
But people from the past came into her life
bringing back old memories. Then she met her
match, another fierce assassin

Death, a Biography, is a fictional horror novel. It is crass, violent, profane, and not meant for the light hearted reader. Imagine living in a world surrounded by fools. For years your frustration grows, and no matter what you try to do you cannot free yourself from the preverbal ideocracy. Nom DePlume is just such a man, only one day he is granted the dearest wish of his heart. Nom, a grad student working as a truck driver is: intelligent, well educated, and the sort of person who always can find a reason to have a chip on his shoulder. One day while driving in Texas he finds that he has the ability to wish death on those he hates. Being scientifically minded, Nom proceeds to experiment searching out the scopes of his new found powers. He begins in Texas, a state he despises. As he moves on from each experiment, he picks his prey to match some facet of modern western life that he hates. Each receive a fate customized to match what Nom feels they did wrong. Nom then travels home to Michigan after initially defining his new role in life. In Michigan he uses his powers to settle a few old scores and family business. A run-in with an old friend convinces him that he is being selfish for not using his god like powers to better mold humanity. The end of the book sees him taking on the leader of the free world. Nom now personifying Death, learns that he has a true foe, Life.Nom will return.

Rosemary was so tired that the bus driver had to inform her that they had reached her stop. Thanking him, she got off and stumbled up the stairs to her room. Covering her chest with a thick layer of Comfrey ointment, she lay down and was asleep. When she woke up at 6am, she felt better and got up to work on her homework. She had all of her speech outlines for her Public Speaking class typed up by the time she needed to leave for class. When she got back, the girls were ready for her to teach karate. She had them work on several one steps and taught them the next kata. Frantic calling down the hall caught her attention.
"Sir, you can't just..."
"I need to see her."
It was Kevin. Aurther Kunzite must have told him where she lived. Rosemary told the girls to keep practicing and turned down the hall to intercept him. She kept her face free of emotion and her stance confident. 
"Is something wrong, Kathy?"
"This..."
"Rosemary, I need..."
"Kevin. I am very displeased. I thought I made it expressly clear that you were to only speak to me at school or through the emails you send to Lotus."
"Yes, but..."
"No, buts, Kevin. There is no excuse."
"I need to speak to her, Rosemary. It's important."
"Then email her."
"That still takes too long. I need to speak to her."
"About?"
"You wouldn't understand."
"Lotus isn't here, Kevin."
"Then where can I find her?"
"There is no finding her."
"Please, Rosemary."
The other girls peaked out to see what was going on.
"When she's ready to see you, she'll contact you."
He glared at her and her maroon beanie, yellow turtleneck, and faded jeans. "Tell me where she is!"
"She'll contact you when she is ready," Rosemary repeated.
Kevin left in a huff.
When the door was shut, her head hung and tears fell silently to the floor. Her fists balled so tightly her knuckles turned white.
"Will you be okay, Rosemary?" Kathy asked.
She shook her head.
"Why did you keep your friend's location a secret? She's not in a safe house is she?"
"He's not ready to know."
Kathy gave her a hug. "You're a strong woman, Rosemary. Remember that when you feel weak."
"Thank you Kathy. I'm sorry about Kevin."
"It's okay."
Rosemary returned to the dining room to finish up her lesson before retreating to her room.

Kevin fumed the whole way back to base. Why was Rosemary being so stubborn? Was it asking too much to just let him see Lotus? His mind wandered as he thought about Lotus. The first time he had seen her tattoo, her healing touch, her wings—that had gone from white to a bluish-green. Then there was her beaten face and bruised body, scantily covered body with a dirty tube top and mini skirt. All of these images from the last several months replayed in his mind and it seemed like he had entirely forgotten what she was like before he saw her tattoo and her back became deformed because of her wings. 
The Lotus he pictured was hurt and alone; which made it difficult to picture her leading a group of people to oppose both The Enemy and The Opposition. He wanted to hold her again and know that everything would be okay. But Rosemary seemed to stand in his way of ever hoping to see Lotus again. Had Lotus truly become too weak to stand on her own? Is that why Rosemary wouldn't let him know where she was staying? Kevin sent Lotus and email, whining about Rosemary and telling her how much he wished to see her. Then he asked her if they could meet somewhere. He waited all day for a response. Sporadically, he worked on homework, but he stopped every two minutes to see if she had written. Eventually, he finished his homework, but still hadn't heard from Lotus. Still moping, he laid on his bed and stare at the ceiling until he heard a small chime to let him know he had an email. 
Getting up quickly he looked at it. It wasn't from Lotus, but from someone in the organization. Ignoring the email he went to sleep. There was still no email in the morning. He sent another just in case the other hadn't gotten through. Then he responded to the other email before joining the weekly progress meeting. The women were having a little more success than the men, but there were still quite a few women that would avoid them. They didn't understand. Why would some women, not on the side of The Enemy, refuse to join The Opposition? Lotus knew, but hadn't responded. Maybe they could call her. After some debate, Aurther Kunzite called.
"Is Rosemary there?" he asked Kathy.
"Hold on. Let me check...." There was a little noise in the background, then...
"This is Rosemary. How can I help you?"
"Rosemary, can we speak to Lotus?"
"I've told you, Aurther Kunzite. You can reach her through email."
"Tried that," Kevin interjected, "She won't respond."
"Ah, Kevin. Are we calling for the sake of speaking to Lotus or is The Opposition looking for information?"
"Information that I doubt you have."
"Try me," she challenged.
The situation was described in a general sense and specifics left out.
"Sounds like safe house women to me."
"Thank you, Rosemary," Aurther Kunzite said, "We'll try emailing Lotus, but if we can't get through we may call for more information."
"That won't be necessary, Agent Kunzite. An email will be sufficient." Then she hung up.
Kevin leaned against the table, his hands balled into fists. He couldn't believe it. Lotus back in a safe house? It didn't seem possible. She always had a sense of defiance, doing whatever she could. With this in mind he slowly walked to his room. On his computer he pulled up all her youtube videos and watched each one. With each video he paid attention to her eyes, the light dimmed in each until he couldn't see it anymore. After this he watched the one she had made while at base, the one with the happy pictures with the sad song. Now he felt he understood. Her hope, her happiness, that such things could still happen in her life was gone. Then Rosemary's words the night they met at Antique Café hit home. 
'The fact that she still had the will to live after that just shows that something remained firmly planted in the ground.'
"Lotus," he whispered, "I'm so sorry."
A soft chime informed him he had an email. It was from Lotus. He moved the cursor to open it, when he noticed the subject line. 'From Kathy regarding Lotus.'
He hesitated another moment then opened the email.

Struggling to maintain a sense of normalcy in her life, Rose Garnet is forced to face the horrors of her past once more. Will she be able to endure or will her connection to the darkness be the death of her?

interview thank you email subject line

Thank You

Poseidonn

Color Me Black.

I have a bunch of players on Earth

Along For the Ride

Story of a Big Player from Gangnam

Martial Arts Master

Tarasha

Death: A Biography

Lotus Balm (Deleted)

People search interview thank you email subject line also like: