this is just a book im reading and need the audio function! so dont waste time here im already in chapte 55 or something

Apocalypse? Check. 
Zombies? Check. 
Game-like Augmented Reality? Check. 
Romance? Err... Maybe.
A lighthearted comedy and adventure amidst the chaos of an unexpected Apocalypse.

"Honey I need to tell you something." I was late and my friend Taylor would be here any minute to pick me up,but my Mom looked concerned.
"Make it quick."
"Sure hon." I sat down next to her.
"So spill." I know I was being abrupt pbut I was late.
"Before I tell you I just want you to know that I love you." 
"Ok Mom." I didn't like how this was beginning to sound.
"Well you know how I told you your Dad died."
"Yes." She had told me that he died of cancer a month before I was born.
"I...I lied," she looked nervous " he didn't, and he wants to meet you."
"WHAT!"
"And I'm not your mom." I couldn't believe my ears. She'd lied to me. For my whole life, fourteen years.
"Who are my parents then?"
"Promise you will believe me."
"Yes I promise."
"Your dad is-"
"-Hurry up." Taylor was here.
"I'm sorry mom tell me later ok." I got up and kissed her on the cheek, "bye, love you." I walked out the door. Taylor was leaning on the side of the car with a disapproving look on her face.
"Late." She stated.
"I know my mom wanted to talk."
"About?"
"She didn't get the chance before someone rudely interrupted." I giggled and swatted at her with my hand.
"Stop! Or I won't give you your coffee."
"Please," I did my best puppy dog face, " I'll stop." She giggled and handed over the coffee.
"Mmmmm." We got into the car and drove off.
We arrived at school just in time to see Miley the schools 'queen bee' pull up in front of us, stealing the space we were just about to pull up into.
"Oops, did you want this spot?" She smirked and flounced off.
"She is just so...so ughhhhh." Taylor sighed in defeat.
"Don't let her get to you." I smiled encouragingly, "look there's another space."
"Thanks Lindz." Lindz, that was her pet name for me. We parked and hurried inside. I walked to my locker which was, coincidentally, next to Taylor's (nothing to do with the fact that her dad is the headmaster, definitely)and got out my books.
"Hey guess what my mom told me today."
"Tell me,tell me." She said as we walked down the corridor towards homeroom.
"She told me that my dad isn't dead."
"Seriously?"
"Yep, apparently he wants to meet me."
"Who would've thought!" She looked shocked for a moment but that didn't wait long, her shock soon changed into confusion.
"So...who is he."
"I, I don't know." She never told me much about my family, she'd always said that she fell out with my family before I was born. "Oh and she said she's not my mom."  By now we were in Homeroom.
"WHAT!"
"Shhhh." The rest of the class were looking at us. 
"Sorry," She didn't mean it, "your telling me you don't know who either of your parents are?"
"Yes, know be quiet."
"Not until you tell me everything."
"Lindsey and Taylor, do you have something to say?"
"No miss." I glared at Taylor. The rest of the day was fine, until lunchtime. Taylor cornered me with smile on her face.
"It's lunch."
"Yes captain obvious."
"And no teachers."
"So?"
"Spill your guts." I should've known she wouldn't forget.
"I already told you everything I know."
"What, that's all you know, you barely told me anything." She pouted.
"Eat your food." Taylor has an eating disorder. She never eats. I like to tease her, it's all lighthearted.
"Cold." She threw her apple at me. I caught it, easily.
"If you ate more you'd be a better shot." She mimicked crying. 
"You'll get over it." I laughed and continued to eat my lunch. 
"OMG!" Everyone turned to the speaker, it was a girl in my science class. She's normally really quiet. I turned to see what she was looking at.
"Lindz, that's your mom." There she was, my Mom, getting out of a car with...
"Jack Whitman!" A couple of girls screamed some fainted. I think I even saw someone cry. The headmaster came into the cafeteria.

Lindsey Evans is your typical teen, but when she finds out that she’s adopted her life changes completely OVERNIGHT

____________________
In the darkest hours of the night. 

Inside a study room of an ancient castle, one can see two people, one being a handsome Japanese man with black hair and ice blue eyes, standing with his arms crossed.

In front of the man is a white haired European beautie with red eyes sitting at the desk, her eyes looking at the relative pile of books ranging from "Basic History" to "Harry Potter" with mild curiosity.

Irisviel: So i am to just read these books ?

Akihiko: Yes, for now read some before you sleep, don't read them all at once though and you can ask any questions you want.

It's been another month since i came to the Einzbern Castle but this month, i spend my time teaching Irisviel talking patterns and social interactions, the one teaching being the anti social me of course it wasn't perfect but she will have to fix those herself in time as we progress.

Irisviel: Why am i reading these ?

Akihiko: Because reading is fun ?

Irisviel: Then why aren't you reading ?

Akihiko: I have already read those, i just brought them for you and i am going to build a present for you while you finish them.

The books here are just lighthearted history, some slice of life novels ect. and yes HP counts as slice of life if you compare it to average life of a magus.

Irisviel: What's a present ?

Akihiko: It's a surprise someone gives to another for special occasions or just wants to give.

Irisviel: Can i get it early if i read really quick !

This reaction is what i am working towards, that glimmer of expectation, that light in her eye that's carrying emotions.

Akihiko: *Chuckle* Well, i asked you to read them slowly since the present isn't ready yet.

Irisviel: I see...

Aww, *Head pats intensifies*

Irisviel: That's somehow warm ?

I am going to make her addicted to head pats by the time we leave here. There's just something calming about patting heads.
_____
While my plan is in motion i have took an book out of the necklace for myself, while it may have been to just "create" a car that's running with prana, i enjoy the building process itself.

So for this i am further researching into runes in my head since i can finally use the shiny ones that needs divinity and i am also reading about cars and it's components, how does engines work, how the wheels gets wired to the steering wheel ect.

I am going to build this stuff from scratch while making a Prana/Chakra powered engine for it, it's going to work and sound like a car but it won't have all the nasty bad sides of destroying the environment.
_____
Our lives went along as Irisviel slowly read her books and i started to draw a concept look for the internal of the car.

At some point i finally decided to introduce her to movies, i didn't show her any Sci Fi or any fantasy ficton since her common sense is not at the point of differencing it from reality, i don't want her to think there are real Jedi out there... Well technically there are in a another universe but that's not the point.

So she got to watch stuff like Forest Gump, Saving Private Ryan, sometimes comedy, i really wanted to make her watch, Scary Movie(not horror it's the name of it) but i held back even i have no idea how that would effect her.

For the whole year she read books, watched movies and asked me questions about them and things she didn't understand and there were some deep questions there like, "Why people hurt each other" or "Why did they hit children" or "Why wars happen" like seriously even i don't know the answers for those, i just gave her my opinions on them while adding that these are my views and it could change from person to person.

She seemed like she was reaching to a conclusion with every anwser i gave her.
_____
At the end of the year in december. One could see Irisviel looking after some winter flowers in the garden of the castle.

This part of the garden is hers, she wanted to look after a living being, well she first asked for a pet but i gave the opinion of flowers.

I doubt a pet would stay as a pet here, up in the mountains filled with wolves and bears.

Anyway, i observe her as she took care of her garden then she stopped and turned to me.

Irisviel: Akihiko, may i ask something ?

She seems fidgety like she's embarrassed to ask whatever she's going to ask.

Akihiko: Sure, don't hold back.

Irisviel: Can i ask about your life ? ... I mean we always watched those movies and i am reading those books but i am starting to feel they don't really reflect reality, like i have watched people live their lives but even in those ones that set in medieval time doesn't reflect our lives.

After that she talked about the difference of the lives of people in fictional works and our own.

While she expressed that she wanted something "Genuine" i just had a brilliant smile on my face.

Finally she grew up and realized the difference. I didn't want to make her watch movies and just after that say "Hey those are not real" it's like Santa, child should realize that it's not real on their own. At least that's my opinion.

Irisviel: Mou! i am saying something serious here please don't laugh at me *Pouts*

Damn it, she's too cute, going to her side i just pinched her cheeks and patted her head.

Akihiko: hahaha i am not laughing at you, i was just happy that you realized what's different between fiction and real life.

Irisviel: You did that on purpose... that's mean! 

*Head pats*

Irisviel: That won't save you! You're going to feel my wrath!

She said that while punching my chest! so cute !

*Head Pats Intensifies*

If one were to observe from outside, one can see a man head patting a flustered women while the women in question is trying to ran away from her embarrassment by hitting the man even more.
_____
After Irisviel's awakening to common sense and her subsequent realization of what's real or not, i introduced her to Sci Fi and Fantasy genre's.

She wasn't all that exited about fantasy since you know we're living in a world with magecraft and magic.

On the other hand she started to ask stuff about my life, i have made a confusion barrier that surrounding two of us to make sure we're not being listened and filled her in on my real identity of Sixth Magician, there's no reason to lie to her.

She being a Homunculus came equipped with knowledge of important people and that of course includes me as well.

Irisviel: What! if you're the Sixth Magician why seek the grail ? doesn't your power alter reality ?

To her question i explained chakra and how i made them buy it Sixth Magic by the end of my explanation she was really amused at me fooling the whole moonlit world.

Irisviel: But then again, why seek the grail if you have such powers ?

Akihiko: Answer is, i am not seeking the grail.

Irisviel: Then why go through such long preparations to get hired and bother with the family head ?

To this question i pointed at her, this is going to be a cheesy line but there's just no other way to put it.

Akihiko: It's going to sound weird but i am just here for "you".

She halted for a while before continuing.

Irisviel: What do you mean ?

Akihiko: Don't misunderstand me, i am here for "you" not the grail.

Irisviel: I don't understand how did you knew about me back then to prepare for all of this.

Akihiko: Iris, you have just awakened your personality and you're already confused, i will answer all of your questions in time but can you shelve that question for now.

Irisviel: You're right, my head feels like there's lead inside.

*Healing head pats*

Irisviel: Thank you.

Smiling i kept patting her. Not like i can tell her that she was a anime character just yet, it would break the common sense i have strived to build. Just getting out of this world is going to blow hee mind.
_____
In the study room of an ancient castle, Irisviel von Einzbern is drawing the master piece of her life using a sketch book and pencils.

What she's drawing is a car... A car that's awfully similar to the 1967 Ford Mustang Fastback in the Fast& Furious Tokyo Drift...
She didn't watched movie yet...

Akihiko: Really ? you want to car to be like this ?

At my mention Irisviel stopped drawing and turned to me with stars in her eyes.

Irisviel: Yes! look at that it looks awesome but*Finger at me* you have to make it fast as well got it!

Akihiko: Well i am happy to see you got some hobbies, it's better than gambling i guess.

At my grumbling Irisviel tilted her head not understanding why would i mention gambling at this point of conversation, i just shook my head not wanting to talk about it.

Akihiko: Well finish your sketching then i will start building it, now i need to go and see Acth.

I left the room while Irisviel waved me goodbye.
_____
It has been two years since i came here meaning there's 8 years left for the war, during this time i managed to "crack" Acth's head and got him to pack up everything Einzberns owned in a discreet manner.

Also since he's under my thumb i don't need the whole, "She needs to watch Star Wars Marathon to understand society" deals and excessive use of Kotoamatsukami.

Now days Acth could be seen acting polite even to his maids and being relatively humane, who would have thought he would became more humanlike after i messed with his head anyway.

The reason i want the Einzberns is that i have finally have a life supporting planet inside me Yaaay!

What that's about you might ask and here's the answer.

I already have the ownership of the Naruto World and i will own this one after my business is done but there's nothing better than your own creation.

In this case my plan is making a giant dungeon in Naruto and Nasuverse worlds that will spread my religion and those who get in and survive will be transferred to the "New World" 

My own world, where resources are plenty and chakra is dense, yes i am going with chakra and the dungeon itself will help people adjust to it, only those who pass through the challenges shall step on the "New World"

The beasts inside will be either be made by me or will be transferred from the two worlds but no peaceful beast shall be used as monsters. Peaceful races like faires get free tickets inside.

There's even a prize for being early, those who finish early will become the moderator gods of the place and those who reach the new world first and transferred into my version of Valhalla or Olympus or whatever.

Don't get me wrong when i say this though to go through the dungeon you need both physical and mental strength and i will make sure to cut the bad seeds before they bloom.

Not like i can end all evil but i can choose the what kind of evil i will allow.

What about the ones don't give a shit or can't participate, fear not. The dungeon is not mandatory.

Those who want to stay in their own world will stay in their own world. Living and dying reincarnating and eventually they will get in the dungeon.

After 10-100 generations whole Nasuverse and Naruto World will transferred to my own world, It's not perfect but this is the best i could come up with.

I am going to have the Einzberns Homunculus act like Valkyries but they will have their own will, they will just have set of rules that shouldn't be broken.

Not like i am arrogant or childish like the generic gods.
_____
Getting in the room of Acth i can see that he's coming up with a better way to make the Homunculus to make them more humane, like being able to bear children and such.

Akihiko: I see you're still going on it.

Acth: Sorry sir, it's just they weren't designed for this in the first place but don't worry with the resources you have brought and the Einzbern craft i shall achieve your goal.

Akihiko: Don't overwork yourself there are still time not like i am going to start right after the war we still have time until 2004.

Acth: Thank you sir.

Akihiko: Alright then i am leaving, i have something to build.

Acth: Sir!

Akihiko: Yes ?

Acth: We finally got the artifact for the summoning.

Saying this Acth got up from his seat and moved towards the safe and got the Avalon out.

Acth: Scabbard of the King Arthur, he will be a great choice for a servant.

Akihiko: Indeed she will be.

Acth: She ?

Akihiko: King Arthur is a women.

Saying my piece i left his room but something stuck to my head...

That scoundrel of a Magus still alive right ?

Getting back in i took Avalon and got back out.

Putting the scabbard to the ground i focused on it.

THERE!

"Summoning Jutsu" *Poof*

The man came out of the smoke is a young looking man with grey hair lavender colored eyes, wearing grey robes with purple flower motifs. Yes he's Merlin.

Merlin: I was wondering how long it would take for you to summon me hohoho.

Let's hope i didn't make a mistake.
____________________

WARNING my stories generally lack spirit i write for fun and to free my head from this particular plot.

Expect inconsistency bullshit power ups and messed up logic and also don't expect good grammar.

??: "Hans…"
H: "Hn…"
What…?
Something feels heavy… 
??: "Haaans…"
And somehow, I hear someone calling my name. But it feels so nice to the ear, like a sweet melodic lullaby. I don't want to wake up…
??: "Haaaaans…"
But that 'something' keeps shaking my body. The weight is one thing, but I feel I two small hands on top of my chest that keeps pushing me to the ground. Am I still dreaming? I feel like I'm already awake though…
H: "Hn…?"
I tried to slowly open my eyes and peer through my heavy eyelids. 
H: "Tia?"
T: "Really… Hans is hard to wake up."
H: "My bad… I was a bit exhausted yesterday. *yawn* What's up? Can't sleep?"
T: "…"
She didn't respond to my question as she hanged her head while sitting on top of me. 
T: "That is… not it."
H: "Hm? Toilet?"
T: "D-Don't treat me like a kid! I… I can already go by m-myself! I think…"
She's still scared, huh.
I stood up from my mattress so I made Tia sit beside me. Based from the position of the moons, it's still middle of the night. The bright moonlight peeks through the window, illuminating the corners of the living room. We both lean on the wall while seated, as I wait for Tia to speak.
T: "…"
Hm. It seems like it's something hard for her to tell me. Alright…
H: "Tia. Let me tell you a little story."
T: "Hm…?"
Seems bewildered by my sudden words, Tia looked at me as if a question mark floats above her head. 
H: "You see… There was once a boy who lives peacefully, together with his mother and father. He always had fun every day. Reading books, playing games, eating dinner, and being loved by his parents was his everyday life."
T: "Is he your friend?"
H: "Nope."
T: "Hmm…"
I continued the story as she hugged her knees while burying her face in it.
H: "But one day, his father was called by someone. His father said, 'Son, I have to go and protect our country. Just remember that I am doing this for you and your mother.' The boy was smart. He had already read several books and because of those, he already gained the knowledge which far surpasses that of a child. Just from those simple words, he already understood what his father meant. He was going to war."
T: "Ehh? Is the father okay after the war??"
H: "Well… That is, the war didn't end. And the father didn't come back at all."
T: "Ehh…"
H: "The boy grew up with his loving mother. The boy thought that if he has his mother by his side, everything will be all right. But… It was not the same for his mother. His mother missed his father so much and forced herself to work. Maybe, trying to forget the loss of his husband. And because of that… The boy's mother got ill and passed away soon after that."
T: "…!!"
H: "When her mother was on her deathbed, he told the boy, 'I am sorry, dear. This is something inevitable. Getting separated with your father was the last string to be cut off.' Even though the boy was smart, this time, he didn't understand the words of her mother. He was only left with a small crystal pendant. Her mother died shortly after giving it to him."
T: "Now he lost his mother…"
H: "The boy became alone. He had no one by his side anymore. But one day, a letter from his father was sent to him, brought by unknown strangers. He was brought into a strange place with only white walls and some unknown machines. After some time, he was trained to fight their enemies even though he was still a child. Then years passed, the boy became a grown man."
Pausing for a while, I feel Tia leaning on me. Is she getting sleepy now?
T: "What happened to him…?"
H: "Hmm… He became a soldier himself. Fighting at an early age."
T: "… I see."
H: "Then he became a commander of a squad. A secret military squad to be used for secret missions."
T: "…"
I don't know if Tia still understands what I'm saying, but I continue to tell the story nevertheless.
H: "But one day, during a mission. One of his subordinates rushed towards the enemy. So to save her, he had to fight all the enemies by himself. In the end… He perished."
T: "It's a tragic story…"
H: "If you think about it, yeah. Kind of."
T: "It is. He lost his father, then his mother, then he had to fight enemies even though he was still just a young boy. Then in the end, he even died…"
H: "But he died saving someone. Isn't that a great ending for him?"
T: "I think so too… But… It's just sad for the boy…"
I couldn't help but smile by Tia's innocent remark. Tia can be quite mature, well, of course she would be because of her age. She's already 20. But that being so… I heard from her that she was raised as a proper princess and I think because of that, she haven't had the time of her life. 
H: "But it's not that bad after he died, you know?"
T: "Eh? What do you mean?"
H: "He was revived to another world."
T: "Ehh??? Really?? What happened then?"
Tia abruptly stood up from her place because of her surprise. Perhaps, because of the term 'another world', which caught her attention. Even though it's not something impossible, being summoned from another world or to another world is still something that happens, though quite rare and legendary. So just by hearing it, people would usually get interested. Or at least, that's what I've heard from other adventurers.
H: "Do you want to know?"
T: "I do, I dooo!"
Tia jumped from left to right with each foot, placing her clutch fists on top of her chest. Her eyes brimmed with excitement as she waited for me to continue the story.
H: "He saved a head chef and a little girl from a dangerous man, fought a huge wolf, and formed a contract with a cute Faunalian."
I said so with a smile.
T: "… Eh?"
Tia stopped from jumping and looked at me with a surprised expression.
H: "Tia?"
T: "EHH????"
H: "Tia. You're being loud. You will wake up Ceres and Anya."
T: "Mmp!"
She then hurriedly covered her mouth as she resumed her jumping from a while ago. Then while hushing her voice into a whisper…
T: "Then! Then! You are that boy…??"
H: "Yep. I told you that I will tell you my secret too, right?"
T: "*nod *nod*"
H: "Well? Think you could sleep now?"
T: "How could I after hearing that! Tell me more about it!!"
H: "Haha. Some other day. You have to sleep for now."
T: "Eehh…"
Tia puffed her cheeks in protest. Darn, I want to poke those.
T: "But… Hans. Before I sleep then."
H: "Hm?"
Tia changed her tone into a serious one so I listen to her intently.
T: "I want… I want to thank you!"
H: "For what?"
I already know what she is talking about. But to help her with what she wanted to say, I intendedly acted like I don't know what she's talking about.
T: "For being my contract partner…"
H: "I see."
T: "I also feel like I forced you to form it with me. And I feel bad about the things I placed on your shoulder because of it…"
H: "I don't mind."
T: "But…"
Tia gripped the hem of her shirt, perhaps due to her surging emotions. So I pat her head as a comfort and reassurance.
H: "You told me not to think about it, right? Isn't it weird if you're the one minding it after saying that?"
T: "That is…"
H: "Tia."
T: "…?"
I looked straight at her now teary eyes.
H: "I've already told you before we formed the contract. I saved you because I want to. I helped you because I want to. I didn't think about what will happen or what will not. At that moment, I just wanted to save you, that's all."
T: "Hans…"
H: "And that's what I feel even now. If you're crying, I will make you smile. If you want to be spoiled, I will spoil you rotten. If you want your head to be pat, just tell me and I will do so."
Saying that, I once again reached for her head for a pat.
H: "If Tia needs help, I will come running."
T: "…!"
H: "Of course, it's not just me. Anya and of course, Ceres. They both want to help you and be there for you. That's why, you don't have to mind it. A princess should just puff her chest out and be proud all the time."
T: "I see… Okay…! I will do that then!"
H: "Good. That's the spirit."
T: "… Ehehe… Hans. Really… Thank you."
H: "Do you think you can sleep now?"
T: "Mm! Thank you. That is why… Hans."
H: "Hm?"
Without any warning, Tia closed her distance to mine and…
T: "*kiss*"
H: "…"
T: "Ehehe…~ Good night!"
After bidding me her good night, she ran towards the bedroom's direction pitter-pattering while holding her cheeks. And after seeing her silhouette off, I ran my finger to the spot where she landed her kiss.
H: "Is kissing on the cheeks a sign of gratitude in this world…?"
Recalling the sensation of her lips on my cheeks, I lie down on my mattress with a lighthearted mood. Bathe with the moonlight, I close my eyes, looking forward to what will happen from here onwards.
…
..
.
Epilogue End

Year 2048, the current World War, or known by the general public as the Great World War is still ongoing for over 10 years now and is almost reaching its peak. The soldiers are giving their all and risking their lives to protect their loved ones. 
Among them is Hans Schmidt, the said hope of their country as its ace. A 21 year old soldier who cannot help but poke his head to every complicated situations and usually ends getting involved with troublesome matters. 
He had lived his life just fighting for whatever reason he had in the battlefield, growing up within such harsh environment.
But for some unforeseen reason, he was transported to another world.

How will our ace soldier fare in a fantasy world that defies common sense from his former world?

(Editing the dialogues at the moment. I'm just adding the character initials so there are really no changes in the dialogue itself. Well, some corrections if needed.)

The third princess did not open her mouth. Behind her bright smile was a cold attitude. Even her standing posture gave her a demeanor of calm. 
There was no way that this attitude would bother him. He didn't know when he had come to think of her this way.  
There were three princesses. The title of princess was not appropriate for her. He had come to call upon Ashite-Ploca, but he didn't even want to call her by that name. And so he called her:
"Ashite."
Ashite. The wind blew and tickled the ends of his tongue. Calling her by her name felt lighthearted and simple. But once the sound of it exited his lips, her name overtook him like a wave. The strength of the water was great. The things he had buried deep in his mind rose up to the surface. The water spread. Really, he could not tell when he had come to feel this way. 
Ashite. What kind of woman is she?
The princess was smart. She had gone to Wroclaw often. The princess was also knowledgeable about books. She was also interested in philosophy. Her thoughts were not shallow, even though she was younger than him. Now that he thought about it, he came to a strange realization. The princess ate boneless fish. He informed the chef of this preference. It was only an interest.
But this woman. She was able to show him how beautiful dance could be, something he had never once paid any attention to. 
This woman liked to wear ivory dresses. He informed his Chief officer about this preference. "Your majesty, I am discussing how we should decorate the dance studio with the head chambermaid as we speak." And so he told him. "Ivory color will be good." 
The reason was immensely simple. When the Chief Officer had told him this, he remembered that she had worn an ivory dress when he had seen her dancing and had thought that it matched her well. Dance, sunlight, and ivory. It was a wispy thought. It was not deep.
This woman's mother's status was very low. She would have suffered the same as he had. She must have endured it for a long time. He identified with her and sympathized. She cautiously called out to him. 
***
<<"…Your majesty.">>
Now that she thought about it, it may have caused a stir.
Afterwards, they had talked about several things other than books.
<<"Have you ever been to Alexandria? You seem to know the setting well.">>
<<"I had heard of it before in the past. I was told it is covered in snow and is a beautiful sight to see.">>
<<"You've heard of it before?">>
<<"Yes.">>
<<"Hmm. Do you know Claremont?">>
<<"Yes. I have never been there before but I heard it is a beautiful place.">>
<<"Very.">>
***
<<"Are there any foods you do not eat?">>
<<"Pardon?">>
<<"You have not eaten the pickles after touching them.">>
<<"Oh… It is because they are a bit spicy for me. But they do taste good and my hands keep going towards them.">>
"They are flavored a bit strong but I do like them also.">>
***
<<"What Your Majesty has just seen is dance's most basic moves.">>
<<"Oh. From Helena?">>
<<"Yes.">>
<<"The basics you say. How old were you, Princess, when you learned it?">>
<<"I learned it when I was nine years old.">>
<<"That's incredible.">>
<<"You are too kind.">>
***
This woman did not get scared or discouraged easily. With a pretty smile, she would always converse with him respectfully and humbly. There was no pretentiousness or hypocrisy. 
This woman practiced dance often. Without realizing it, he had been visiting the dance studio from time to time. <> Any time he propped his chin on his hand, it was always his left. And he never sank down, leaning comfortably onto the back of his seat. One day, she walked into the restaurant and he found that her movements were elegant. Sometimes, this woman would look out far into the distance. When he followed her gaze, he found it faced south.
This woman, Ashite. She was already so elegant. But in front of those two other princesses who clearly looked down on her, she remained standing tall and confident. Since when has that woman been able to express herself so freely and as her true self?
Ah, she was always confident. Her reckless behavior. Even though that was different from her truthful expression. He had never been curious about what she may have wanted or thought about. 
He hadn't.
But now, he was a little curious. He wondered what she thought of him calling her by her name. 
Lu Havre accepted his curiosity. It was the first time he had called anyone purely by their name without some sort of title attached. It was the first time he had called out anyone with such familiarity.  Even to Lizdeika Lebra Habava, he had used Lieutenant. He could have called her the same way but he didn't want to add the Ploca part. 
Naturally, his thoughts flowed out of him. Like raindrops coming together on a calm surface, the water grew and shook his core. 
Ashite.
These days, she seemed to have found peace in being herself. It was a strange belief to have. Every time he would have meals with her, he felt it more. She smiled more often. A strange sense of trust, identification, a strange friendliness. 
The dress she wore today was again an ivory-tinted white one. As always, she ate only the fish that had no bones, read books often, and had perfect etiquette. And she was still the girl with the free spirit mother. But her dance was still as beautiful as ever, and he wondered what other things about her would be like.
The smallest things aroused his curiosity. What kind of woman was she?
Ever since he became king, he hadn't necessarily lowered himself for or hid his true identity from anybody. To those he liked, he was able to be generous, and he had to get to the bottom of his curiosity.
Ashite. The pronunciation was smooth. He suddenly felt ecstatic.
She was smiling brightly. Her voice sounded as if she was singing. She did not hide her excitement.
"Your majesty. You called for me."
It was easy to tell that she looked excited.
The smile did not disappear off of Ashite's face. Lu Havre was smiling also.
"Nice to meet you. I will introduce myself. I am Skara's first princess, Allo Lizdeika Rabri Ashite-Ploca Joanena Pescara Van Squirina, the Dragon's descendant, the Red Eye of Nante, the owner of the White Castle, Ottoi and Nante's leader, the Black Sword, Del Monte the Third."
Her voice was delicate. Her sophistication flowed out of it. There was not anything that she lacked as she greeted them elegantly. Lu Havre slightly lifted his hand up and respectfully received her greeting. 
"I've met you before."
Ashite bent over slightly and closed her eyes. On her forehead, they drew the wing shape associated with Monvixo. Lu Hare motioned for her to lift up her head. Suddenly, Elbloara tilted her head curiously.
"Ashite-Ploca. What is that―"
"Oh, the king has given me permission."
Ashite cut her off quickly and quietly so the king would not hear. Ashite laughed.
Whenever one went to another nation or met someone from another land, it was courteous to respect their customs before your own. But every circumstance required etiquette and greetings that could change depending on the situation. Also, explaining the customs of the nation to a foreigner meant that you cared for them and were close to each other.
The expression was certain.
It was surprising that the Third would show the nation's etiquette to the king of Monterobis but there was something even more shocking. Her head throbbed. <> Elbloara couldn't help but clench her teeth. However, in front of her was this country's king. Elbloara forced a smile on her face. Baayeme seemed to understand the meaning behind the words and her face showed her discontent.
"Nice to meet you. We welcome you coming to Theheras."
"We thank you for inviting us here."
It was an arranged meeting between the princesses from the defeated countries with the victorious king. The people surrounding them glanced over in interest at them, but the four of them spoke elegantly to each other without minding them. As if the war had ended long ago, none of them brought up the subject.
They only mentioned their gratitude for the invite and the extravagance of the banquet. As he conversed over such frivolous topics with the two princesses, Lu Havre glanced over at Ashite. There were three women in front of him but he only had eyes for one. 
Elbloara was able to catch this and immediately shut her mouth. 
"Wait a moment. I would like to discuss something with Ashite. Please excuse us."
"Yes. Your majesty."
"I hope to see you again soon, Your Majesty."
The two princesses greeted him with a smile. Lu Havre had always been good at deciphering a benign smile. He returned a strange smile back at them.
"I hope the two princesses will enjoy the rest of Theheras. Monvixo is glad to have you here."
Lu Havre turned his back to them without any hesitation. Ashite followed behind him but turned her head slightly and bowed to them. It was Skara's way to show respect. But there were no words. She didn't check if the two princesses took her greeting and Ashite hurriedly continued walking.
The night had fallen completely outside. The darkness from outside didn't penetrate through the window and the ballroom was extremely wide. Lu Havre walked slowly following the wall and Ashite followed elegantly behind him.
Suddenly Ashite stopped. It was because Lu Havre had suddenly stopped walking. Confused, she stared at his back. Lu Havre turned around.
The music was continuing to play. It was a melody reminiscent of a waltz. In this atmosphere, in a voice that could be heard clearly by Ashite who was standing in front of him, he said to her: 
"I hope you will understand."
Ashite opened her eyes wide. Lu Havre sounded a bit emotionless. He slowly opened his mouth. 
"I don't seem to have a proper way to address you, Princess."
The words came out fast. Ashite smiled, finally seeming to understand. This was another courteous gesture. 
"I've called you by your name without your permission."
"That is alright."
It was the truth. Even if one was king, it was not respectful to call someone by their name without their permission. But to her, it was a miraculous thing. She didn't want to spend any more time with the two sisters and had no urge to continue making conversation with them. Situation aside, the voice in which he asked to call her by her name was a welcome surprise. Either way, even if the king had called her by her name without her permission, she would not have been offended. 
Lu Havre's expression changed strangely. His rigid face softened. As expected, it was out of courtesy. Ashite thought that he could be a bit more truthful. This much was enough, however.
"I am honored for the privilege."
Lu Havre smiled slightly as he saw her form a natural smile. Her purple hair was tinted blue and the part over her forehead fluttered slightly. His red eyes glittered clearly. 
"There are people who would like to speak with you," Lu Havre continued before Ashite could open her mouth to respond. "The king of Kahn, the king of Safflower, and the Head of Limne." 
He mentioned a list of many important men of Latrice.
Ashite looked at him with a look of curiosity. Why would these people want to come see her? Then suddenly, a thought occurred to her. Maybe...
"There they are. Will you go with me?"
When he had spoken previously, it had sounded like they were going together to discuss something, but now he was asking her if she would accompany him.
His generosity, respect, and courteousness. Ashite spoke with a smile on her face.
"Yes, Your Majesty. I will be honored to accompany you. I will do as you wish."

"Even though I love you, would I be able to tell you that without saying I love you?"
A romance between the Empress who has become a captive from war and the Tyrant of the opposing empire.

"Aura!" I yelled her name as my eyes flew open to the familiar scene of white-washed walls and daylight's rays peeking through the curtains. "Dammit!"
I slammed my fist against my mattress. Then I pulled off the comforter in a rush and grabbed my smartphone from the chair so I could dial Ty's number.
Precious seconds ticked by on my alarm clock as I waited for him to pick up.
"H-hello?" Ty answered sleepily.
"Ty, get up... I need your help with something," I said in an urgent tone.
"Sure..." He yawned. "It's Sunday... so give me another few hours to catch some zzz's..."
"I need you now, man!" I insisted. "Get dressed, pick up Arah, and head to my house as quick as you can... please."
Ty finally registered the tone in my voice. "A-alright, dude... I'll head over soon."
"Thanks," I told him before I put the phone down and dialed Arah's number next.
She picked up at the second ring as I figured she would. Arah was an early riser who liked to exercise in the mornings. After Luca disappeared, she'd taken up the Japanese martial art of Aikido to learn and protect herself. She was probably already deep into her katas by the time I called.
The conversation with Arah was short and quick to the point as she understood that time was important to me. She made a promise to arrive soon.
Finished calling for reinforcements, I rushed down to the kitchen to find that Aunt Lena had already left me pancakes and bacon for breakfast along with a note that explained she was spending the day at the hospital to visit my mom.
Guilt racked me then because I hadn't visited mom since the night I defended the hilltop. Partly because I didn't like seeing her in that fugue state she was in, but mostly because I really didn't want to run into Azuma while on Mudgard. That would be very dangerous considering he wanted to kill me.
I shrugged the guilt off and reminded myself I was doing everything I could to bring my family back together which is why I needed to rescue Luca as soon as possible.
I grabbed a quick bite to eat and downed a glass of apple juice as I would need the energy to prepare my counterstrategy for the tonight.
Ty and Arah arrived just as I'd finished my meal, and I led them from the front door and back to my dad's study, which is where I was about to tell them my plan but Arah stopped me with a raised hand after she'd shut the door into the room.
"Are you okay?" she asked sincerely. "Because you look like you barely slept and you're still in your PJs..."
"I don't have time to shower now... I'll do it later," I countered. "So—"
This time it was Ty who had his hand raised. "Dude... we've been talking..."
Now I knew why they were both standing so stiffly and had their arms crossed together. I was in for a lecture.
"You've asked us to help you out several times already... to research some really far-fetched stuff in here," Ty gestured to the stacks of papers and books on the walls. "And we have said nothing but..."
He looked over at Arah for support.
"We want to know what's gotten into you... do you believe these creatures - these fairies actually exist?" she sent me one of her smoldering looks. "What's going on with you, Dean?"
"Guys, we don't have time for long explanations... we need to—"
They both had their hands raised.
"We're not helping you anymore until you fess up, dude," Ty admitted.
Arah nodded in agreement. "Yeah, what's really going on with you, Dean?"
We were at an impasse. They wanted to know the truth, but I refused to put them in that kind of danger. Besides, I wasn't even sure if I could. I didn't know if Aura had placed on me the same restriction of being unable to talk about fairies as was clearly put on my mother by the fairies who took Luca. But I needed their help. It was only because the three of us worked it out that I was able to find my way into the Fayne, and it was their suggestions that helped me figure out a strategy to defend the hilltop. I needed them.
I sighed. "Look, you don't want any part of this... I'm keeping you safe by leaving you in the dark... I swear."
They both looked at each other. Then they turned their eyes on me.
"Ready player two," Arah said with conviction.
"Ready player three," Ty added with a grin.
True to form, these guys wouldn't abandon me despite the trouble I could send their way. It's why we were best friends after all.
I sighed. "Alright... Let's start from the beginning then..."
It turns out Aura had placed no restrictions on me as I was free to tell Ty and Arah everything that had happened to me since the day we discovered the fairy summoning ritual. I also clued them into my family's curse. This explanation took the better part of two hours as they were both stopping me for clarifications.
"So you serve as a commander in this fairy clan?" Arah asked.
"One-hundred Man Commander," I corrected.
"So, like, Aura's a girl and she's an elf? I'm guessing she's hot, right? Please tell me that every fantasy we have about elves is true?" Ty asked eagerly.
I nodded in response. "Yeah... she's beautiful."
At the thought of Aura, I began wondering if she had defended herself after our enemies knocked me out and if she was safe with Edo and the others and waiting for my return.
It was a credit to the trust Arah and Ty placed in me that neither of them asked me if I was lying or even considered the possibility that I was going crazy. I told them fairies were real and they just accepted it just like that.
"So that's why you always look like you lack sleep... and why your grades have dropped considerably," Arah noted.
"Dude," Ty reproached her. "Priorities... you don't have to rub it in that you've finally beaten him academically..."
The three of us laughed at that, and the lighthearted feeling I always had when I was with them returned.
"Fine... we'll table my lecture on how foolhardy you've been, Dean," Arah said.
"Cool name by the way," Ty interjected.
We bumped fists.
Arah coughed to get our attention back.
"So Luca was kidnapped by these drow which is slang for dark elves... correct?" Arah asked for confirmation.
I nodded. "Yeah... drow are bad news. They're like the ninjas of the Fayne. Hired assassins who kill or abduct other fairies for profit..."
"How do you know this?" she asked.
"Aura..." I wondered inwardly if it was my place to tell them about Aura's life. But they needed to know a few things. "There was a coup attempt in the Trickster Pavilion years before I arrived, and the opposition hired a rival drow clan to assassinate the patriarch's family. Aura and her brother were the only survivors. Drow are the reason they're orphans..."
After several seconds of absorbing this information, Ty asked, "Could this be why they took Luca?"
Arah smacked him on the shoulder. "That theory only makes sense if they took Aura too, dummy."
"Yeah, but... what if they did?" Ty asked the question that was in my mind too. "What if after they knocked you out and you were sent back here to, um, Mudgard, what if they took her then?"
My brows creased while I worried about Luca and Aura. This was completely my fault, my failure as their leader not to have foreseen something like this could happen.
"Cut giving him more reasons to feel depressed, Tiberius!" Arah karate chopped him on the top of his head. "We don't know what happened after Dean passed out like a wimp—"
"Hey," I cut in while frowning at her. "I didn't pass out! Something heavy smashed me..."
Arah ignored me and kept on with her deduction. "What we know was that Luca had killed one of these drow, right? It stands to reason this might be why they took him..."
"For revenge?" Ty sounded skeptical.
"It's my theory at least..." she gestured to the books on the walls. "We can find out more about drow in these, yes?"
I nodded, amazed at how rational she was being while discussing creatures we only encountered in our DnD campaigns.
"Then let's get cracking," Arah insisted. "What are our objectives, Dean?"
"Drow culture... how they live, where they live, and what hurts them," I answered quickly.
Both Ty and Arah nodded, and we set to work on the task before us. And it took us most of the day to work out what we needed to know. During this time, Ty had ordered two large pizzas from our favorite pizza parlor so we could load up on carbs while we thought up a plan.
Ty discovered the clue about why drow would want to abduct Luca in one of my father's books called the 'FAY MOST DARK AND CUNNING.'
"It's called a blood feud," Ty explained. "It says here that drow are so few in number that they're familial bonds are really important to them. If one of them is killed in combat, then the other family members have to seek revenge on the killer to ensure the soul of the dead drow is reincarnated back into the family..."
"That's morbid," Arah said. "So, how do they seek this revenge, Tiberius?"
Ty looked at me with his brow creased. "Through single combat... The killer and a member of the drow's family..."
My heart raced at the thought of Luca being in serious danger. But I kept my cool because I didn't want my friends to worry more than they already did.
Another thing Ty discovered was that drow like to live in dark caves due to their extreme sensitivity to light.
"They have something called a superior shadow-vision... Looks like they see better in the dark than in a place of light. They've got extreme sensitivity to sunlight too... they're weaker in the daytime," Ty said.
"That's no help... I'm not in the Fayne during the day," I said before an idea came to life inside my brain. "But what if we can bring the light to them?"
I quickly explained to my friends about the luminescent rocks I saw in Broken Sellsword's canyon and asked them if I could use these against the drow to create a stronger light source.
"Depends, you'd need a certain amount of magnesium or aluminum to create a powerful enough reaction..." Arah pondered on this while her fingers tapped on the surface of dad's desk. "Can you even find those two in the Fayne?"
I nodded. "I've seen aluminum in the stores of Fort Darah the first time I went there, and magnesium is common enough here on Mudgard that it'll probably be abundant in the Fayne too..."
"Can I just say how derogatory that word sounds to me?" Arah complained. "Humans haven't lived in mud houses in millennia!"
Arah's outburst fell on deaf ears as I was contemplating how I could use the information we uncovered to save my brother. Eventually, the three of us came up with a pretty solid strategy that might help my upcoming rescue mission. That this strategy depended on finding magnesium in the Fayne wasn't something I wanted to think about too much. Unfortunately, apart from golden Leprechauns, I couldn't bring anything from either world with me to the other.
"Thanks, guys," I whispered after we'd finished with our plan and Ty had eaten the last slice of pizza. "For believing me..."
It was a huge deal for me that my friends hadn't questioned my sanity or left abruptly in anger thinking I was lying to them.
"Um, we believe you but I have to say... this still feels unreal, dude," Ty said.
"We'll still need further evidence to rid us of our doubts, Dean," Arah added.
"Um, how do I give you that?" I asked.
Ty quickly raised his hand. "I'd like to meet Aura!"
This got him another karate chop to his buzz-cut head.
"Not that I wouldn't mind... I'd love to meet this elf girl who got you caught up in all this mess, Dean," Arah's eyes narrowed. "But you can give us proof today."
"Huh?" I raised an eyebrow at her. "How?"
Arah pointed to the lone window in dad's study. "Sun's coming down... So, if everything you said is true, you should head off to the Fayne as soon as you fall asleep. We'll stay and watch."
The excited smiles on their faces told me I might have a hard time sleeping after sundown.


Dean Dapper leads two lives. By day, he’s your average teenager enduring the hustle and bustle of everyday life in the mundane human world. By night, however, he’s the reluctant commander of the Foolhardies, a group of troublemakers fighting in a war of succession that’s been ongoing for nearly five hundred years!

A Fifteen-year-old battling mythical fairy-tale beings may sound foolhardy, but Dean isn’t in this for himself. His younger brother Luca faces a life of slavery in the fairy realm, and only Dean’s fight to become the clan hero might rescue Luca from his grim fate. Luckily, Dean finds a valuable ally in Aurana, a princess of the clan with her own political ambitions of her family claiming the empty throne.

Strategic battles, magic sword fights, the underbelly of fairy politics, and raging teen hormones—it’s all in a night’s work for Dean, Luca, Aurana, and the rest of the Foolhardies.

[UPDATE] Pausing on daily chapter releases this June 2020 on account of spending part of my writing time editing the work from the beginning. Please expect even better prose and tighter pacing from chapters 1 to 220 soon. It all starts with 1. After I'm done with that, daily chapters will resume. But don't worry, chapters will still come out weekly. It just won't be daily for now. 

RELEASE SCHEDULE: 1 chapter daily at 10-11 PM Hong Kong time.

want to read more of my works? check out GAME MASTER OF SOULS (ML-Fantasy/Game) only on Webnovel. 

Want to buy me a cup of coffee? A gift on the novel page will do the trick. :D

Follow me on Twitter "@WhoisGDCruz" for all the Foolhardies news that doesn't fit in the Author's note of each chapter. :p

Want to chat about the Foolhardies? I'm on Discord: GD_Cruz#3598

The sun had all but faded away, together with the last lights that gave me the opportunity to read all the books. Before it left completely, it peeked one more time, through the darkened clouds, refracting off the windows and dispersing into a brief rainbow.
The dust that danced throughout the day, dissappeared behind the shadows of the library.
I closed my sore eyes tightly and only after a few seconds reopened them again. 
Through my blurry vision, I noticed on the table, a little candle disparaged by the many times it melted, solidified and melted again.
For a second, I considered lighting it to help me illuminate the papers in my hand, but decided to spare the small thing from a death with no meaning.

I'm sorry to have wasted everybody's time, I still couldn't read.

But don't blame me.
The language, contrary to my expectations, was harder to comprehend than I originally thought. Not just a simple alphabet with different letters.
From what I gathered, every letter had it's own meaning, similar to the chinese characters.
The only thing I was able to do, was seperate the books into reality and fantasy.
The golden-red book, jugding by the images, was about the last mythical beast, revered by the humans but alone as a species, while the parchment were probably tax reforms and expenses made by a country.
If I wanted to read any further, I would have to ask someone to teach me, and I wasn't ready for the shame yet, so my plans could only be put on hold.

It's not that big of a deal though, since I came to the library not to study, but to rest.
However, I wouldn't give up that easily either, so I took anything I found interesting and made my way towards the entrance.

The moment I opened the door, I was greeted by Vera, who had been patiently waiting for me to return. When she saw me, her eyes lit up again returning to the glistening brown color they had.
Behind her stood the librarian, who had since braided his long, straight hair into two twin tails. Why he did such a thing, I didn't plan on finding out.

"I have returned," I said, one hand risen in the air triumphantly, the other hand holding on to the many things I brought out. I like to think that I looked like a brave warrior who had fought through unknown lands. 

I admit, there was no particular reason for my actions.

Vera played along, by covering he mouth and muttering, "yes, you have indeed." She then ran up to me and hugged me. I had to stop her though, otherwise she would damage the books I carried.

"Glory to the mighty," the librarian shouted, while grandiosely throwing his arms into the air. All the while, he remembered to not show any signs of expression, "may your tales of epic spread far and wide."

"Vera carry these for me," I gave her the things I carried, "let's leave afterwards."

"Yes, of course. It has gotten late."

I turned to the librarian again, "you wouldn't mind if I took them, right?"

"If you made sure not to damage them, I don't," he nodded, his head swinging up and down.

"Alright then," I said and left.

Vera, for the first time, followed right behind me, as I marched to my room. I turned my head one more time, only to see the librarian waving goodbye, almost using his whole body as a pendulum.

Couldn't he act normal for once?

It was not hard to find my way. After all, I had walked the path before, and I never forgot what was worth remembering. A left turn here, and another one there, and we soon reached our destination. 
The familiar sight was easy on my eyes, which had been strained by looking at letters and symbols the whole day.
Someone, unbeknownst to me, had collected the many dresses that I took out of the wardrobe and cleaned the room. It had returned to its original state as if I was never there.

"Are you hungry," Vera asked.

I stared at my stomach and answered, "a bit."

"Alright, I will have a meal delivered," she said, but did not move.

The only thing she did was look at me with a smile. 

"What?"

"Nothing, it is just that preparing and delivering your food was the job of another maid."

Ah, now that she mentioned it, I remember Celestia being the one who had brought the food in, not Vera. It was a minuscule detail and was overshadowed by everything else, so I paid it no heed. 
But neither Celestia nor Vera were my personal maids. In fact, I could be glad that anyone was willing to help me at all, since on the surface, I was still the waste of this family.

Vera began fidgeting and wondered why I wasn't saying anything.

In the end I told her, "you can join if you want to."

Her face brightened up, and she replied, "well if you really want to, I guess it couldn't be helped."

"Also, tell Celestia to prepare her own share," I smiled, "let's make it a family dinner."

"Family," she repeated and then skipped away with giddiness.

I waited for  the two of them to arrive while I laid on the soft mattress and rearranged my thoughts. I gave it my best to not fall asleep, as my eyes closed and opened again.

After a while, the door flung open, giving me a boost of energy, and I jumped out of the bed.

"We are back," Vera said, while Celestia followed right behind, shoving a cart through the door.

When I looked at Celestia, and she saw me too, the girl bashfully glanced away, avoiding eye contact. 
She placed the trays on the table and revealed a diverse assortment of food. 
One was a platter of garlic bread served with a creamy tomato brisque soup. The soup had a lovely orange color with a fragrant smell. A hint of basil was hiding behind the aroma of charred tomatoes. 
The light scent was however overwhelmed by a more intense one.
At first, I did not know where the thick aroma came from, as it was hiding behind watery salad, embellished with a glimmering sauce, but as I took a closer look, I saw the marinated chicken, honey glazed and grilled until golden brown. 
Supporting that was some buttered corn, shining like jewelry on a woman. As if that was not enough, there was a small pie made out of fruits.
All this was placed in front of me.

"Is today someone's birthday," I asked, baffled by the feast before me.

Vera shrugged her shoulders and said, "your grandfather has ordered the kitchen to prepare an unusually sumptuous meal for you," she then laughed, "they misunderstood and made enough food for a group."

I stared at the plates helplessly, "you're not telling me to eat all that, right?"

"Eat as much as you can, the rest can be dealt with later."

"Even if you say that," I muttered.

My eyes fell upon the other dishes, the ones served for Vera and Celestia, and I saw that they were less grandiose. 
Celestia was holding the plates in her hands, unsure of where to place them, as she did not think I was planning on eating at the same table with them.

In one hand, she had some herb basted potatoes with slices of bacon. In the other, there was even less, only a porridge and some beans.

I clapped my hands, "I know, let's all share our meals," I said to them.

Vera tilted her head, and Celestia stood still, both unsure of the meaning behind my sentence.

"I mean, a family shares their food, so let's all eat together too," I pointed at the table, "Celestia, would you place down the remaining plates."

Although stunned, she did not disobey my orders and placed the plates without thinking too much. Her eyes however were unfocused, indicating that her mind was still unsure of what I meant.

Vera meanwhile, was a lot more free spirited, as she shouted, "is that alright, it's been a long time, since I have eaten such a sumptuous meal," she couldn't contain her smile, "is it really alright?"

"Calm- and sit down, I'm hungry," I told her.

She nodded seriously, and then sat down without great ceremony. Celestia was still stuck in her stupor, unable to comprehend what exactly she should do.

"Celestia, you too should sit down. A meal tastes sweeter with company."

"I don't think I should," was all she managed to say.

"Relax," I requested of her, "come on now, the food will chill, if you do not hurry."

I urged her a bit more, and only after I assured her that it was alright for her to join us, did she take a seat with utmost courtesy. Just like in the morning, she sat without any unnecessary motions, her body stiff as a board.
As everyone claimed one side of the table, I began preparing the food that lay before me. The maids tried interrupting me, but I insisted.
With a knife and my hand, I separated the chicken, pulling the meat into strings. The soup and bread too, I placed in the middle with a spoon sticking out. I tried my best to divide the food into equal parts and placed them on Celestia barley porrigde.

Seeing the chicken on her plate, her eyes widened, "miss, you shouldn't," she exclaimed.

"Most people just call me Agnes," I said, "and you should eat some meat, you are barely skin and bones."

Vera too agreed, as she said, "don't mind it, if the girl says it's alright then you should just accept it," while I was cutting the pie into big sized pieces.

The pie felt soft like a pillow, and puffs of hot steam escaped as I revealed its interior. It reminded me of treasure chest full of gold, only that the gold were different dried fruits, stuck between the dough. Every time I broke through the crust and hit the porcelain plate, a short but high ringing sound was played.

"Even so," Celestia stared fixedly at the food I offered her, "I've never eaten a chicken before," she mumbled, a bit guiltily.

Both me and Vera reacted simultaneously, surprised by her statement.

"Eh," I exclaimed, "not even once," and placed a buttered corn next to her beans.

She shook her head.

"Then this will be your first time," Vera said and bit into her potato.

"Hey, why have you already started eating," I shouted.

"You are taking too long. How could I wait, seeing all this food in front of me?"

I sighed and announced, "you're right, let's begin," and tasted the soup. It had a very distinct flavor, and felt very comfortable in my mouth.

My focus was on Celestia and how she was observing the meat in front of her. expecting it to suddenly move. 
Maybe her courage was not big enough but she first ate the porrigde and some beans. When she tried the tomato brisque, her eyes lit up and she savored each spoonful, swallowing only after several seconds.
Like a curious cat, she began eyeing the stringed chicken for a while.

By the time she did, Vera too focused on what she would do next. 

Celestia gulped once, and meekly looked at me for confirmation, which she naturally got, and then carefully placed the white, flaky flesh surrounded by charred honey into her mouth. She chewed once or twice, and then hid her mouth behind her hands.

"It's delicious," she said, much to Vera and my satisfaction.

The rest of the meal went on without any problems. 
While Celestia was bombarded with all the new flavors she had learned, we talked about various topics. 
Interesting things such as the state of the country, but also lighthearted rumors about the servants and the household. It was the most relaxing dinner I had since a long time. Celestia who got more comfortable with me and Vera, also opened up a bit. 
The whole time, the pearly moon was silently looking over us.

"So, how are you two connected," Vera asked after we were were done eating.

Celestia, who was still basking in the euphoria of eating delicious food, began to tense up, "it is not as you think," she began denying, even though nothing was mentioned.

"Vera, don't tease her like that," I said.

"Excuse me, it's in my nature," she laughed and then jumped at me, "but Celestia, if you want her you need to gain my approval first," she stroked my head.

"Are you my mother," I rebutted and pushed her away, while Celestia was at a loss for words.

The dinner was concluded like that. 
After they cleared the table, the maids excused themselves, as it had long been night time.

I then jumped into the bed, and without waiting for my food to digest, fell asleep due to how tired I was.

The serenity did not last long though.

It had been a while, but I had a dream. The dream was about myself. No, it was about Agnes, the black haired, blue eyed girl, who was beautiful and malicious. 
I had dreamt of her before, just before the tragedy that befalled me and Estella, so I remembered it well. 
Again, she approached me, but this time, the dream continued. Without any words, she began to grasp my neck with her cold fingers, and choked me. I tried resisting, but my body wouldn't move. All I could do was watch her as she placed her hatred on me.

By the time I woke up, My vision had already faded. 
A big gasp was what I did first, longing for air. Afterwards I checked if the sun had risen, only to realize it was still night time.

"Shit," I mumbled and clicked my tongue.

A lovely but crisp voice resounded in my head.

ɢᴇᴛ ᴛʜᴇ ғᴜᴄᴋ ᴏᴜᴛ ᴏғ ᴍʏ ʙᴏᴅʏ.

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?”

______________________________________

2000 words per chapter

Top 150 - 1 bonus chapter
Top 100 - 3 bonus chapter
Rank 1 - whole book (lol)

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