##
Maximus Palace, Kingdom of Sapphire
The sky was blue; it was exuding good energy in the kingdom. It was a luminous Sunday morning. The trees were dancing; the birds were chirping. Inside the Maximus Palace, the maids were cleaning and readying for the royal banquet. On the other hand, the lady of the Stepanov family had not woken up yet. The maids were waiting patiently outside her room. It was already 10:00. The young lady was supposed to wake up at 8:00. The butler hurriedly headed to the room of the lady. He first knocked on the door and then, entered the bedroom placidly. The bedroom had vast windows with long, majestic, magenta curtains attached to it, where the equestrian property was visible; it had high ceilings for it to be adequately ventilated. The room was decorated according to
the young lady's preferences. It was all in purple shades. The bedroom was quite huge for a commoner young lady; the lady belonged to one of the wealthiest royal families in the world-Stepanov family. The Stepanov family had been ruling the Kingdom of Sapphire for centuries. Their surname literally meant 'crown'. The young lady sleeping peacefully on the bed, was the daughter of the Marquess; the granddaughter of the King.  The young lady was Evelina Stepanov. Any man would like her at first sight and love her at second sight. She was the apple of the eye of the Stepanova family. In the bedroom, She wore an off-white nightgown, that accentuated her hourglass figure. Her long slender legs were tucked to her busty, luscious, and beautifully shaped breast; her long, jet-black hair, was spread all over the bedsheets. It was more likely a goddess halo of womanly beauty; her eyes were framed by long, ebony lashes, without the use of cosmetics and enhancements. Every time she closed her eyes, it would seem that her lashes caressed her cheeks. The duvet was lying on the floor. The old butler gazed in fascination at the beautiful young lady sleeping peacefully on the bed. He studied the young lady as soon as he finished opening the curtains, making her exposed from the sun's brightness. 'She still hasn't changed. I am wishing luck to her future husband.' This was the only wish of the old butler for the young lady. 
"Young miss, please wake up! Your parents will reprimand you again, " the old butler said loudly but still held a reverence in his voice. The old butler had been repeating it for the tenth time. The old butler had been serving their family for more than forty years. He was James Napoleon. His hair was gunmetal grey and neatly groomed. His face could appear in world-weariness at times but usually, he was vigorous and alert. Suddenly, he came up with an idea. "Miss, if you don't wake up, you'll become a barren for the rest of your life, " the old butler said in a serious tone. 
"You think I fall for that? Surely you jest, old James, " Evelina replied with a yawn. She was still feeling slumberous. She stretched and sat up, reaching for the duvet lying on the floor. However, James knew long ago that she would attempt to reach the duvet. He was fast enough to pick it up. 

Then he scolded, "Young miss, I've been telling you a  million times that you shouldn't wake up late! You're supposed to be dressed at 7:00, and look at the time! It's already 10:30," 
"You know what? I don't care at all! I'm so tired of the practice yesterday. I am joining the Olympics, old James!! She replied with a complaint. 'I couldn't get it right! The triple axel jump is the most difficult part for me.' She was a figure skating athlete. She had always dreamed of wearing a gold medal. She never once achieved the gold medal because she couldn't win against her opponents.  Her opponents in the competition were practicing the whole day; she only practiced for about 3 hours a day. She needed to attend numerous balls and gatherings in order to show respect and gratitude on behalf of the Stepanov family. Hence, she could only bag a bronze medal or silver medal. Figure Skating was one of her passion. She was actually having a hard time sleeping; she was preoccupied with what happened last week. 

A week ago...
As she was strolling in town, there was a small stall situated in a secluded area that was surrounded by people. She was curious so, she decided to join the bandwagon. She followed the crowd; they were lining up. The small stall could only accommodate one person. Finally, after the long wait, it was already her turn. She was taken aback as she went inside the stall. It had one huge golden chandelier that was waiting in the lobby. The walls were painted black; there were nine huge hollow mirrors attached to it. The mirrors were embellished with old gold color. The interior of the stall looked like a home of a sorcerer. In spite of the interior, the place had a cozy and comfortable ambiance. There was no one inside the stall. The facade seemed small; it was actually larger than what she had expected. Her legs were tired from the long wait in line.  Fortunately, she saw a black retro-style sleek couch and decided to sit down.
"Hello? Anybody there?" She asked as she was frustrated after all the long wait in the line. She then added, "Hello, I'm a customer. I'm actually new to this place! Could you please tell me what services do you offer?" 
The room was in deep silence. There were no indications of people. No one answered. 'What on earth is this place? I waited for an hour just for this?' She stood up from the sofa and walked towards the opened door. Unexpectedly, the door was shut, making a loud bang.  Evelina could feel the wind arising the atmosphere of the room. She had goosebumps all over her body. Her skin paled instantly, she didn't know what to do of the sudden climax. She was petrified. She tried turning the doorknob several times; she couldn't get out. She then approached the windows; the windows were locked and it needed a key for it to be opened. She was hopeless. Evelina sighed deeply, "Am I dreaming?" she mumbled. 'I am such an imbecile. How did I end up getting here?'

Born with beds of roses, she was blessed with everything. Evelina is indeed a fortunate person to belong to one of the prestigious families of the Kingdom of Sapphire. Unfortunately, a sudden accident happened! She was drawn to the mysterious stall. She saw an enchanted mirror, telling her real identity and purpose of living. She was told by the enchanted mirror that she is the savior, that will unite the world. What could happen in the future? 
Join Evelina as she goes on a beautiful adventure.

A twitch. A twist. I felt it in my gut — that subtle twinge at the sight of her. Of that woman. Of all of them.
"Cindy!" I called to the woman down the street. She was strolling along the sidewalk in a beige leather coat, the hint of a skirt just grazing the upper part of her calves. Her long, dark hair swayed languidly in smooth waves down the middle of her back. God, did I miss wrapping my arms around that waist.
She whipped her head around just as I caught up to her on the sidewalk. I planted a kiss on her mauve lips and slipped my arm around the small of her back, right where it belonged.
"Hello, Art," she easily matched my stride as I guided her around the corner. She didn't blush, was barely ruffled. It was like we had started the day like this, joined at the hip. 
"Where are you headed?" I asked, taking in the smooth flesh of her neck, descending into an ample curve at the top of her breasts, which were barely concealed by a thin, pale yellow singlet. 
"Have you forgotten?" Her brow wrinkled.
"I'm just teasing," I responded. "How could anyone forget a date with a girl like you?"
"Well…" She looked up at me through her lashes. "I'm not the only unforgettable one in this scenario."
I grinned. "So last night's encounter will be one for the books."
"Oh yeah," she rejoined. "I'll keep it in the bestsellers." She couldn't stifle the giggle that I knew was making its way up her throat since I wrapped my arm around her.
She absolutely adored me. And that's how I like my girls. Martin — well, Martin was… different, I guess. He  could never get a girl like Cindy no matter how hard he tried. I'd have to get them for him.
"What's that smirk for?" Cindy asked, nudging the corner of my mouth with a red-painted index finger. "You got me something, didn't you?" Her eyes lit up with excitement. I flinched, but she didn't notice. God, was Martin annoying.
"We'll see," I murmured as I guided her into the quaint little restaurant where we'd reserved an intimate table for two.
"Wonderful," Cindy sighed as she slowly sank into her chair and curled one dainty ankle behind the other. The chair was lush, upholstered with damask that looked just as soft and smooth to the touch as the flesh on Cindy's prominent, rounded cheekbones. Sometimes just looking at her bright, elegantly sculpted face reminded me of a plump, fresh peach, just ready to be sliced open, its juice pooling serenely underneath it.
I reached into the inner pocket of my jacket and fingered the slim felt jewellery box that contained a very delicate, very expensive pearl necklace. This would reel her in, no doubt.
I freed my hand and leaned across the table to take both her hands in mine. Her nails were painted a lustrous pearl white — just perfect for what I was about to give her.
I chose this restaurant because of its exclusivity. I wanted Cindy to know that I had friends in high places, that I could get her practically anything she wanted. I knew that that was what would make her feel secure in this relationship. That glimmer in her eye when she spotted the hundreds in my wallet when I paid for dinner on our first date was my first clue. When I first took her to my home, she marvelled at every piece of expensive furniture, decoration, and architecture. We had rough, needy, violent sex that night — much wilder than I had ever experienced with her.
Now, she seemed absolutely giddy sitting in a high-backed chair fit for a queen.
"Excuse me a moment," I said. "Going to the restroom."
I had lied. I really wanted to take out the necklace and surprise her with it by placing it around her neck from behind when I came back. She'd love being surprised like that — she was predictable that way.
Though I knew Cindy well, I knew this place even better. The restrooms were near the back of the restaurant, their doors almost invisible as they sunk into the wall panelling. The mirrors were framed with intricate, gold-coloured vines and fruit.
I smiled when I caught my reflection in one of the mirrors. People always told me my best feature was my eyes; they were pleasant, alluring. I'd come to love them too, and used them to my advantage.

As he slowly realizes he is not alone in his mind and body, Martin discovers there is a malicious entity within him capable of selfish cruelty. In his attempt to unify his fragmented identity, his journey gives him a glimpse into his traumatic past, and eventually allows him to come to terms with the irreconcilable nature of the personalities battling for control within him.

"I see myself slowly changing. Into what or who, I don't know. I'm acting differently, saying things I never would. People I've never met approach me like a friend and, before I can think, I respond as if I know them too. When I look in the mirror, I see a different face. At first, I thought it was a trick of the light, but I'm becoming dead certain it isn't me staring back anymore."

Mrs. Groscow observed her seventeen year old daughter as she walked down the stairs a visible scowl on her lips. Her tongue flicked through her teeth and the wine glass was swooshing dangerously on her fingers.

Jeans booty shorts and of course a purple tank top. Mia stopped at the end of the stair and crosses her arms.

"So you've resorted to flaunting? I see you gave up on your face." The first thing she uttered to her, kicking up her left leg across the right one.

Mia rolled her eyes and shifted her weight to her right foot.

"You're too fat for those shorts."Her mom points out blankly taking another sip of her drink. " You got a lot of mirrors to check that out for yourself, don't you?"

"I know. And that is why apps were created." She whispered but her mom caught  it, a small smile tugging at the end of her lips. The older woman's brow creaked app and she mused at her words.

"Why didn't you go to school today?" She chose to change the subject leaning back on the couch.

"My face." Mia obviously stated. She had vowed not to ever apply make up... Although she wanted to; apply concealer on her zits, mascara, a little lipstick perhaps.

'Oh my goodness Mia!You look like an undercooked turkey!' Her mother's words.

"I don't give a hoot miss! You have to go to school whether you look ugly, or uglier."

Luke Groscow got in at this moment. A male servant took his coat, briefcase and car keys. According to Annah, no female hand shall lay her hand on her man.

She was right to be protective, after all Luke was a male model, a really good looking male model younger than Annah by three years.

"Hey honey." He greeted his wife and made for the little drink area. "Hello Mia."He voiced to her daughter lifting the drink to her in some sort of a toss. She gave him a small smile.

He then walked back across the room and slumped down the comfy white couch. Pure fur.

"Your daughter missed school, again!" Annah started going back to the random act of flicking her tongue inside her mouth.

"Why?"

"Puberty. Look at her ugly face."

"Annah!" Luke raised his voice a little. He nervously watched Mia at the corner of his eye.

An uncomfortable silence enveloped them for about a minute.

"What's wrong with that? She's bright." Luke said in a monotone. A little low this time.

"That doesn't mean she can miss school, Luke."

"I need a shower." Luke announced downing his drink.

He walked to Mia and cupped her cheek. "You'll be fine. At least now everyone will want to look at your pretty face."

Mia smiled. Her dad always gave her hope. Always made sure she was smiling.

Yet her mom was the complete opposite. She is the one who got her a full make up set... Indirectly telling her you're ugly, yet she's still the one who hated the same make up on her.

"Just give me a minute and we'll go get that mirror, okay?"

Mia nodded. Yester night she was so mad she punched her bathroom mirror six times, getting hurt in the process.

Because she let her mother's words get to her.

•|•

They drove out of their expansive house onto a private road for five minutes before joining the main road.

Mia looked outside the window as they passed the mall. She didn't want to get her mirror from the mall because most of her schoolmates hang out there... and she wouldn't be seen dead with her pimply face.

They were going to an old shop downtown belonging to an old black man. She found the place after getting lostin the area. Of course she had to glance around before asking for directions.

"Here we are." Her dad announced stopping the car.

"I'll go alone." Mia quickly stopped her dad from unbuckling his seat belt.

She didn't want him to see her posing in front of mirrors, possibly giving herself a complimenting speech and other self embarrassing acts. "Just wait here. I will try not to take long."

"Well, okay..."

The door chimed on opening and the shop was visibly empty. No shopper appeared to be present apart from her.

"Hello?"She called looking around. The reception area was also empty. She decided to walk around the isles, admiring the fancy, plain and artistic mirrors.

"Hello?"She called out again. Last time he was here. The man was odd and always zoned out in his speech and it spooled her a little but he was no threat.

"Careful young girl, your voice might break the mirrors!" Mia whipped around immediately a little startled. The old man closed the door, made of a mirror that it actually looked like he was coming out of it.

He had the same old tired but warm smile on his face.

"Good evening Mr.William you do remember me?"

"Well of course!" He laughed and walked to her to shake her hand. "You're the crazy one, right?" His hands were rough and crusty and he possessed a firm grip. He released her hand finally and walked behind the counter.

Entirely reflective.

"What can I interest you with miss Groscow?" She was a little amazed that he remembered her awkward second name. Nevertheless, she spoke up.

"I need a bathroom mirror."

"Just that? Oh we have a lot... Framed perhaps? Slitted?"

"I need your most clearest mirror."

"Clearest?"

"Yes clearest, doesn't matter really, it'll still work."

"Well,all my mirrors are clear as you see, but you do want the clearest?"

"Yes."

"Okay then." The sir walked from the counter and walked to the door he had come out earlier.

"Come on, you have to pick for yourself... I have two of them, nobody really seemed interested in having the clearest mirror so they stay up back.

Mia nodded. She half trusted the man enough to set her teaser at 60V, not too much to kill him or paralyse him.

The back of the store was like a workshop. Wood and mirrors, noise from the glass cuter worked by a man and a set of boys preparing a frame.

"Here we are." Mr.William announced walking past the two boys.

He opened a closet and called one of the boys to help him take them out. Mr.William stood them on the width side leaning on the wall.

They were clear, more than Mia ever imagined. The surface seemed like a calm river, promising a ripple if the surface was gently poked.

But one had a slight crack on the left corner, and given the angle of a perfectionist by her mother, she picked the other one.

It was framed with dark brown wood and carved into a beautiful pattern. It looked ancient,and she fell in love with it. She took one last look of herself and smiled.

She turned and waited for Mr.William to finish showing the boys how to smoothen the edges.

"Which one will it be?" Mr.William asked still helping his boys out.

"The framed one."

"You got it, give me a minute."

Mia wanted to turn and look at it once more. Her reflection on it was beyond perfect, it was beautiful. It gave her a sense mysterious sense of security. She opted to look around the place, placing her hand over her lips.

If only she would turn then maybe she would change her mind, because her image was still smiling.

Beauty can be overwhelming sometimes. Mia punishes herself for being what the society calls 'ugly' striving to create a picture perfect image. She builds up an odd obsession to mirrors.

But no matter the clearest mirror she'll get, she's still the same old face. This time however, the mirror is not only the clearest, it's the scariest... She ends up being thrown into a world belonging to the dark forces, and she has no choice but to choose survival, that is until she is able to escape and claim her old life and stolen identity back.

Charming Luscious, a demon in training has other plans and so does a few who come to learn of a mortal in their world.

"Captain Yehval, I charged you with keeping them calm and you failed me, forcing me to reveal my presence." Kamila was flabbergasted realizing that the Queen had been watching and listening to them the entire time.
Suddenly Lith's paranoia sounded reasonable.
"I relieve you from your duty. Prepare them for what is about to come and embarrass me no further."
Everyone turned toward Kamila, looking at her with steel gazes as if there was a traitor among them. Even Zinya didn't say a word to defend her.
"I couldn't disobey a direct order from the Queen, just as there wasn't anything I could say to ease your worries." Kamila said to both the Queen and the Verhens.
Sylpha's gaze softened, realizing she had tasked the Captain with an impossible mission. If it was her son they were talking about, the Commander and his men would be all over the place, reduced to small bits.
***
Two more days passed with no more news from either Solus or the Professors. For the first time in his life, Lith hated his secrets. He had asked Marth and Vastor multiple times if everything was alright at Lutia, only to hear them lie to his face.
Yet he couldn't expose them without revealing Solus's existence and their bond. He focused solely on Accumulation, drawing world energy non-stop in the case he needed to escape.
'If only I managed to see out of this cell and could tell Solus where I am, she might be able to help me.' He thought.
Lith understood that something was truly wrong when Vastor, Marth, and Manohar walked through the door of his cell in their Spellbreaker uniform and all wearing a stern expression.
"Change into this. We'll wait for you outside." Marth handed to him what looked like a light blue jumpsuit that would have looked identical to an Earth's prisoner uniform if not for bearing the army color.
Lith used both Invigoration and Life Vision, discovering that the cloth was enchanted, yet it was nothing he had ever seen before and was already imprinted.
'At least it's not a slave item, but I can't refuse to wear it anyway. I'm completely disarmed whereas they are veterans and are combat-ready. The Professors aren't wearing ceremonial garbs and weapons, but the real deal.
'I doubt I can take out even one of them. They are prepared and waiting for troubles. Also, I've already seen how good Vastor's and Manohar's teamwork is, if we add Marth, I don't have a ghost of a chance without my equipment and Solus.' Lith thought.
The Professors had him walking in the middle of a triangular formation, with Headmaster Marth on point while Vastor and Manohar walked behind him.
"I'm really sorry, kid. You deserved better." Manohar said, his tone sadder than Lith had ever heard him. The god of healing's ominous words deserved him several curses from his colleagues.
Paranoia made Lith plan on weaving his best spells, perform a surprise attack on his wardens with three tier five spells at the same time, and then flee from the Royal castle.
Then, his good sense stopped him.
'Even if I manage to escape from this corridor, I have no idea where the exit is. Let's assume I leave the castle, then what? My family is presumably held hostage and I've got nowhere to run.' He thought.
'On top of that, this is too weird. Jumpsuit aside, I've not been charged with anything, I wear no restraints, and I can feel that aside from dimensional magic, I can use all elements again.'
Despite the many inconsistencies, Lith silently cast his spells. Being rational was good, but being rational and prepared was better.
After walking through a few stark corridors, he understood that the Royals didn't hold him in the dungeon, but in the medical ward of the castle. The space around him went from mental asylum to royal palace of Versailles quickly.
Even mirrors were framed with solid gold, while all the tapestries and paintings on the walls were not only masterpieces to the point that even a layman of arts could appreciate them, but they were also enchanted.
The carpets were the same, but while the pieces of art on the walls depicted epic scenes of battle and the magical breakthroughs of the past Magi that had shaped the Kingdom's history, those covering the floor guided the guests by giving them directions.
Soon Lith recognized the path towards the Banquet Hall. It was filled with magical marvels, among which at least fifty different arrays and countless magical treasures hidden inside the walls that only Life Vision revealed to him.
The double doors leading inside were wide open. Before they could enter, a valet checked Marth's ID before announcing their arrival, speaking with a magically enhanced voice.
The room was more than forty meters (133 feet) long and over thirty meters (100 feet) wide, with a single red silk carpet with gold embroidered edges going from the three meters (10 feet) wide double doors up to the two steps that distanced the floor where nobles stood and the raised one for the royal family.
That way, even while sitting on their golden thrones, the Royal couple would be able to look down on everyone present, reaffirming their status and authority.
The whole room was lighted by crystal chandeliers, fueled by magic, leaving no space for shadows or need for maintenance.
On the walls, magically enchanted tapestries would recount over and over the great feats that the current King had accomplished to be deemed worthy of his power. Both the floor and the pillars of the room were realized from gold veined marble, the most precious and robust material available in the Griffon Kingdom.
The room was filled with nobles and mages of all ages and relevance. Some Lith knew personally like Marchioness Mirim Distar, Count Lark, General Berion, and the Ernas family, others were merely acquaintances like Velan Deirus and Baron Eiros Wyalon from Jambel, but most of them were complete strangers to him.
'I wish Solus was with me. She would probably remember who the beanpole is and why he is glaring at me like that.' Lith failed to recognize Kallion Nuragor and all the enemies he had made as a student first and a Ranger later.
The room was filled with those who thought of themselves as his friends and those who considered him a threat. Both were eager to witness Lith's judgment.
Lith glanced at the balconies. They were sealed, but it was nothing that his enhanced body and a spell couldn't open.
'So far I have no clue. I received my family name here, but I also witnessed several trials for high treason taking place in the banquet hall. The fact that no one wears evening clothes but only high uniforms don't bode well, though.' He thought.
Queen Sylpha and King Meron were the only ones allowed to sit, whereas all of their guests had to stand. Lith could feel how half the room was tense while the other half sent dirty looks at him.
No one seemed happy, which confused him even more.
'Fuck me sideways.' Lith thought when he noticed that the Queen was wielding the Sword of Saefel, the weapon of Valeron Griffon, the first King.
It was used mainly to declare war and execute traitors.


Derek McCoy was a man who spent his entire life facing adversity and injustice. After being forced to settle with surviving rather than living, he had finally found his place in the world, until everything was taken from him one last time. After losing his life to avenge his murdered brother, he reincarnates until he finds a world worth living in, a world filled with magic and monsters. Follow him along his journey, from grieving brother to alien soldier. From infant to Supreme Magus.

-------------------------------------------
Tags: Transmigration, Male MC, Western Fantasy
Schedule: 12 chapters/week (unless I'm ill or stuff happens)
Chapter Lenght: 1200 - 1400 words
Warning: The MC is not a hero nor an anti-hero. He is a broken, cynic and misanthropic person looking only for his own gain. If you are looking for a forgiving, nice, MC that goes around saving people in distress, this is not your cup of tea. Same if you want an unchanging MC with no character development.
--------------------------------------------
Support the Author:
https://ko-fi.com/legion20
https://paypal.me/Legion20
-------------------------------------------
Discord channel: https://discord.gg/Z5T7CBD
----------------------------------------
I don't own the cover but wasn't able to find the author.


The private lift arrives at the penthouse suite and opens directly into a huge lobby area. White marble floor, duck egg blue walls, huge gold framed mirrors and some very plump white velvet couches are the first things I notice. I make a few notes and take a photo as Jimmie leads me towards an imposing set of double oak doors and throws them open. 

"Honey, I'm home!!" he shouts, followed by a very girlie giggle, then pries off his shoes and kicks them into the corner before running across the enormous room and jumping onto Parker's lap. 

"Fuck J! Will you cut that out! My bollocks aren't made of iron you know, that fucking hurts!" he complains.

"Hahaha! You have to own a pair of bollocks before they can be hurt man" Jimmie teases.

"Yeah, well you'd know all about that J" Parker responds angrily, rubbing his groin and eyeballing me at the same time. 

"Miaow!" Teddi says as he enters the room, now clad in only a towel, which is leaving little to the imagination. He is incredibly muscular and toned, probably due to all the martial arts and boxing he does in his free time. His smooth tanned chest glistens with tiny droplets of water, his chestnut hair standing up on end after receiving a very vigorous rub, and his manhood unmistakable through the tightly wrapped towel slung low around his hips. He is looking directly at me as he begins wiping his arms with a hand towel and I avert my eyes and fiddle with my pen, embarrassed to have been caught ogling his perfect form. He chuckles and continues through the room, disappearing into an adjoining room and closing the door. Parker is glaring at me and my pulse quickens. 

"Want a drink Syd?" Jimmie shouts across the room from the bar area. 

"Sure, I'd love a sprite please" I call back, grateful for the opportunity to break eye contact with Parker.

"Ah no! Only alcohol allowed. What do you want? Gin? Wine? Vodka?" he asks, holding up a bottle of Grey Goose and wagging his finger dramatically at me.

"Thanks, but I won't. I am working here you know, I wouldn't want to misquote one of you because I was half cut" I say as Yanni and a man I've not yet met enter the room from another doorway.

"Okay, Whisky it is then" he laughs and hands me a tumbler half filled with amber liquid. I decide not to argue and accept the glass with a small thanks, then immediately place it on the huge glass table in front of me. Yanni and the unknown man sit on the couch opposite me, beside Parker who is currently staring at his phone screen and still rubbing his balls! Yanni stares intently at me as the other man lifts a briefcase onto his lap and flicks it open, removing a small stack of papers and a pair of black half rimmed reading glasses that he places onto the end of his nose before setting the notes on the table between us, closing the case and placing it on the floor at his feet. Jimmie sits himself beside me and picks up the glass of Whisky he had previously handed to me, gesturing I take it and telling me "You're going to be glad of that soon".

What the hell does that mean? I want to ask but I have learned during my years of interviewing people that keeping quiet usually leads to a bigger reward. As a species we humans seem to abhor silence when we are in a group. People in the company of others are inherently uncomfortable with silences, possibly feeling that they should be entertaining the other. This often leads to disclosures that may not otherwise have been made, just to alleviate the discomfort of the aural void. Communication is a human instinct, even as unborn babies we are communicating with our mothers, albeit it non verbally, by kicking and moving inside her. As soon as we are born we attempt to articulate speech, crying being our first effort at vocalisation. Someone will speak soon. 

I thank Jimmie for the drink and take it, crossing my legs and leaning forward, my elbows on my thigh, wrists crossed, one supporting the other as I swirl the liquid in my glass. I focus my attention on the unknown man and reach my empty hand out to him with a smile.

"Hi, Sydney Benfield. Pleased to meet you Mr....?"

"Ferdinand, pleased to meet you Miss Benfield" he answers with a curt nod, then turns his attention to Yanni. 

"Shall we begin sir?" Mr Ferdinand asks Yanni.

"TEDDI!!! NOAH!!! Get your arses in here!" he shouts, shocking the shit out of me! I let out an involuntary squeal and grab Jimmies knee. He laughs at me from behind his whisky glass and tells me I need to get used to Yanni yelling, it's something he does frequently. 
Why do I need to get used to it? I don't expect I'll ever get the opportunity to speak to them again after today. I am very curious about who Mr Ferdinand is though. 
I scrutinise his appearance, around 35 years old, tall and well built, strong jaw and gorgeous emerald green eyes, crowned by a shock of the reddest hair I've ever seen, styled in a very 'un-lawyer like' trendy ruffled undercut. He is wearing a very expensive navy designer suit, silk tie with a matching pocket square and a gorgeous pair of brown men's Louboutins. He is very well put together and shrieks money. My guess is that he is a lawyer, probably here to advise the guys on which questions to answer and which to decline. Bugger! If not he is maybe an executive at their label? I guess all will soon be revealed. 

Teddi and Noah enter the room, Noah sitting to my right on the couch, feet tucked up under himself, and Teddi who has thankfully put on some joggers and a sweatshirt chooses to sit on the floor opposite me, resting his back on the couch between  Parker's knees. I realise that every one of them, including Mr Ferdinand, are staring right at me, and for the umpteenth time today I feel my face flame, my mouth goes dry and I begin twiddling my fingers before silently chastising myself. It's another habit I am working hard to break, I feel it makes me appear weak, and something about the shift in atmosphere here has me feeling anxious. I can't appear weak. In order to control the interview I must be confident, direct and sure of myself. I straighten my back and have a mouthful of the whisky in my hand while Jimmie nods knowingly and whispers "told you you'd need it".

Mr Ferdinand gets a nod from Yanni, clears his throat and says,

"Ok, Miss Benfield, shall we begin?" 





SECRETS. LIES. LOVE. MURDER. 

Yanni, Jimmie, Teddi, Parker and Noah, the members of Australian supergroup 5EX are collectively the most famous five men in the world right now.
Riding high at the peak of their fame and feeling untouchable, their huge fame brings out in some an obsessive and sometimes fatal desire to know them. 
They are surrounded by secrets, some they are keeping from others, some being kept from them!

ALL COULD BE DANGEROUS. 

Sydney Benfield is about to live the dream of millions around the globe. A talented writer, she will be offered a choice......... it will change her life forever.

Naoki leads me into a small empty room. The only thing inside the room was three mirrors which faced into a center point.
Naoki walks to the mirrors.
"These are magical mirrors. They test one's potential in magic. You'll stand in front of the mirrors while I cast magic onto them. Then, information about your powers will be displayed onto the center mirror. Let's get started."
"Okay."
I walk to the center of the mirrors. Standing there, Naoki walks to the mirrors and casts magic into them. Suddenly, the mirrors shine brightly.
After a bit, the shine fades away; however, nothing appears on the mirrors.
"Umm... Is it broken?"
"Hmm?"
Naoki walks in front of the mirrors and looks at the center mirror.
"Interesting... This only occurs if one's magic ability is too much or if they have zero potential. Let's try this."
He pulls out something from his pockets. It looks like a crystal ball.
"This is what we used beforehand. It has a bit more power so it can see one's ability a lot better. Put your hands onto it and cast magic into it."
"Okay..."
I put my hands onto the ball and send magical particules into it. It was really easy to do since I train with shadow magic.
After a second, the ball sparkles.
"Oh my! It usually takes five minutes before one can transfer magic into it. Oh! This shine is so bright! Another reason why we switch is that its magic capacity is so high. So when a normal magician inserts magic into it, the shine is dim, but yours..."
His eyes sparkles.
"Yours is so bright! It shows your magic abilities are extremely high. Ah... Ahem. The last test is your physical abilities. We allow the applicant to prove their ability in any way that want."
Hmm... What should I do then? I could just run a bit. Little boring but it should be effective.
"Okay, I'll run to the other side of the room."
I dashed to the other side in three seconds, leaving behind some wind.
Naoki stares.
"Does this work?"
"U-Uh... Yes! It should do fine... Follow me back to my office."
"Okay."
I followed Naoki back to his office.
"Ahem. Now I'll give you the basics on how the guild works and tell you your rank."
I nod.
"There are Seven ranks: Rock, Copper, Silver, Gold, Diamond, Platinum, Hero. Each rank has three levels: 3, 2, 1. Based on the number of quests and their difficulty, you can rank up. If a Silver 1 ranks up, they'll become a Gold 3.
"You can only select quests in your rank or lower; however, selecting lower quests does not allow you to rank up. This can be bypassed if your in a group with the same levels or higher. For example, a group of four silvers 1's can do gold 3 quests. The majority of the ranks are counted toward the quest. The three adventures are diamond but one is copper, they can accept diamond quests.
"The majority of people are in the silver and gold rank. There a some in the diamond and platinum level. Only five adventures in the world are hero level. Now, your level..."
"In truth, I would want to create a rank higher than hero fro you but that requires the king's permission. You also need the king and the other hero's permission to be the rank hero. You need the king's permission to be the rank platinum too. Therefore, the only rank I can give you right now is diamond 1... Is that alright?"
I think for a moment. I rather start a lower rank so I can feel for the quests.
"Can I be rank silver 1 instead? I want to take a feel for the quest at an average perspective and then level up to a higher ranking to take on harder quests."
"Umm... Are you sure? I mean, your power..."
"Yeah, I'm sure."
The stares at me. "Okay, then... You'll start at silver 1. It takes a day for you to get your guild's card so you'll have to wait till tomorrow to start questing. Come back tomorrow and see me."
"Alright, thanks!"
I bow to show my appreciation. I left the guild, smiling at the female behind the counter as I left. After being outside and going to a more seclusive area, I teleport home.
"Ah... Tomorrow will start my real first day of questing!"
...
Now what? It's still midday so it's too early to sleep.
I sit on the ground, thinking about what I could do...
** Onishi Tomo's Point of View **
It's been a day since Akuma has left the school to go questing. I go through the motions of school, feeling a little depressed that I didn't go with Akuma...
'Remember... all for... a goal.'
Yes, the real reason why I didn't go with him is because of them. I have to report to them this afternoon, so I couldn't have gone with him. Still, it's a little sad. 
I wasn't really fond of the idea, but I couldn't disobey. Still, if the world is changed, then it's okay. Truth be told, I wanted both sides gone. 
School passes slowly. Afterward, I go out of the forest to a weird-looking tree. Waiting there is a young lady.
"You took your time. Well? What are the updates with that devil?"
"He... went... questing."
"He did now? Excellent! There should be many chances to anger him there. We might finish our goal sooner now... Did you get close with him?"
"Kind of... No romance..."
"Figures. I can't see you as an attractive person. I told the boss to get a more attractive person but your all we had. Being friends should be good enough."
I look down at her words, shouting angry thoughts about her in my mind.
"The boss got angry after you failed during the first attempt. This should ease her up. Heh. I can't wait to see the faces of the humans after the devil goes beserk!"
The female starts laughing... Her cloak hides her face but you could tell that she had a nasty smile that could make anyone shiver.
"Now... what?"
"Erm... You can't really do anything while he's gone. Just sit and wait. If he returns for any reason, inform me immediately. Oh, guess you can 'try' to seduce him again and do whatever... you do."
She snickers at that last remark. Then, she leaps into the air, disappearing from sight.
I sit there and stare at the sky, continuing to shout angry remarks in my mind.
...

Imai Akuma was about to go to sleep when he got an email from an unknown sender. The email included a questionnaire title, "What 10 things would you pick if you were suddenly transported to a new world?". After filling out the questionnaire and going to sleep, he wakes up in a cave with a different appearance. What happened to him and what will life bring his way?

*** I am migrating on Royalroad.com. The story will be redesigned and continued on the new site. Hope to see you there! ~ MichaelBits ***

Along City Center Avenue, a ready-to-wear store called "Magical Girl".
This shop was located in a busy area. The decoration was gorgeous and elegant, and all kinds of clothes that made a girl's heart sway were hung in the window. Dressing mirrors on the floor were actually magical, such that it showed a girl her most beautiful appearance.
"This is the best ready-to-wear store in Moses City. We create the most beautiful appearance for all girls. From the color of each hair down to the selection of ankle rings, we can provide you with the service that best meets your requirement. As long as you walk into No. 5 Champs Elysees Street, City Center Avenue, you will see the magical transformation of a girl."
While Sally was behind him holding a beautiful card and reading it, Tang Qi had already pushed open the shop door made of glass and fine wood.
Ring! Ring!
With the crisp and sweet ringtones, Tang Qi and Sally saw the layout of the store.
In addition to those dazzling clothes and various accessories, the most striking was undoubtedly the beautifully crafted mirrors and fitting rooms in very classic styles. After just a glance, Tang Qi couldn't help but make a sigh of admiration inside. 
After all, having experienced the explosive fashion trends on Earth from his previous life, Tang Qi's aesthetic sense was not necessarily very good but easily superior to the level of the Origin Blue Star.
But now, Tang Qi looked at this shop but couldn't give any criticism.
A shop that combined an exquisite classical taste with girly gorgeousness! Tang Qi commented silently in his mind.
At this time, he was not surprised that this shop was notoriously famous in the high society of Moses.
Of course, if this was not the case, Tang Qi would not have brought Sally here.
The gift he wanted to give this simple, sweet girl was a transformation service.
With his now sharp eyes, he naturally saw that Sally's own physical form was not bad at all, and the reason that she became the object of bullying by those mean girls, besides the name of "Unlucky Sally", was her provincial and cowering image.
Boys would be reluctant to approach her because of her looks, and mean girls would very much want to bully her. This made her an easy object of bullying.
Although Tang Qi was very confident in his own aesthetics, it was nevertheless inappropriate for him to personally involve himself in the job of creating a new image for a girl.
So it was natural that they came here.
Though Sally didn't belong to high society, nor could she possibly discuss fashion with other young girls, she had heard of the name "Magical Girl" in passing. 
Coupled with the introduction on the card, the young girl thought to herself: the service would be very good here, and the charges would also be terrible.
"Tang Qi, maybe… it's alright."
Sally grabbed the corner of Tang Qi's clothes and plucked up the courage to say.
But Tang Qi had already brought the girl here; there was naturally no way he would abandon his mission halfway.
Tang Qi smiled slightly at the girl and helped calm her down somewhat with his gentle look.
As a ready-to-wear store most loved by the noble ladies of the upper class, there were naturally many beautiful girls here. Each of them was beautiful and fashionable, full of flower-like beauty and youthfulness.
In contrast, Sally looked like an ugly duckling.
If it weren't for Tang Qi standing in front of her, the girl might have run away.
At this juncture, a person in service approached them.
Surprisingly, it was not a young and beautiful girl who received them, but a very kind-looking old lady.
The old lady looked very well-groomed. Although she was wearing a uniform, there was a sense of grace on her. Although she had a lot of wrinkles on her face, judging from her ruddy complexion and still-exquisite facial features, this old woman must have been a beauty when she was young.
The old woman came over and smiled at Tang Qi and Sally. "Two little guests, how can I help you?"
Tang Qi glanced at the nameplate on the chest of the old woman, and without caring too much about the title "Store Manager", he smiled back and pulled Sally who was behind him over, saying, "Mrs. Hudson, this young lady needs your help. She needs some external changes to make her more confident."
As Tang Qi spoke, Mrs. Hudson set her eyes on Sally.
Her judgment was naturally even sharper than Tang Qi's.
Almost immediately, Mrs. Hudson's eyes lit up. Rejoiced, she took Sally's palm, and a gentle voice that made one relax came into her ears.
"What a pretty little girl. Looking at you reminds this old woman of me when I was young. I was just as innocent and lovable, but Ms. Hudson back then didn't have such good luck as you, to be guarded by a little gentleman." 
"Come, lucky little girl. Relax a bit. You are my magical girl now."
…
On the skills of dealing with young girls, this Mrs. Hudson could obviously well surpass Tang Qi.
Sally, who was very nervous just one second ago, soon walked into one of the separated fitting rooms following the old lady.
Tang Qi also followed while smiling. This was another special feature of this shop.
The layout was surprisingly big. Every guest would have their own separate fitting rooms. Inside, it was like a small living room. There were an actual fitting room and a space for guests and friends to chat and eat desserts, with a complete set of seats, sofas, and the like.
With the experience from his past life on Earth, of course Tang Qi wouldn't stupidly wait for Sally's new appearance. Instead, he went straight to a small sofa, sat down, took out Monster Archives, and started reading.
For others, the book was filled with ridiculous and lengthy content. But for Tang Qi, it held a great appeal. The bulk of the Archive's contents were related to those 12 saints and the various monsters killed by them.
These were what Tang Qi was the most interested in.
Soon he was immersed in it.
After an unknown period of time, Tang Qi had just finished a page about the Confessor Martin Simons killing the double-headed demonic eagle on top of Mount Black Sand. Right at this moment, the exquisitely patterned door that had not opened ever since it closed suddenly creaked open.
When Tang Qi subconsciously looked up, an incredible figure came into his eyes at this moment.
Sally was moving carefully on a pair of high heels.
Her head hung down slightly, and it seemed that she didn't realize how much she had changed at all.
The messy blond hair, after Mrs. Hudson had used some unknown method on it, turned into soft wisps of hair that loosely hung down. With a wreath of flowers on her head, her almost perfect face was fully revealed.
The loose sweater and trousers were all gone. Replacing them was a fairy-like golden and white gauze dress. Under the soft, thin gauze, her skin, so white it was almost shiny, was vaguely visible.
Seemingly too shy, the trace of a blush gradually covered her cheeks and pair of crystal-like earlobes.
As picky as Tang Qi was, he could only express marvel at this moment.
He was sure that if Sally entered Holy Thorns High School at this moment, the whole high school would boil up, and the cheerleader Angela, who was also a blonde, might go mad from jealousy.
Hudson, who walked behind Sally, was also very satisfied, but her inherently critical professional attitude prevented her from ending her work immediately. Instead, she first helped Sally to the huge floor-mounted fitting mirror.
When Sally plucked up the courage to look up, preparing to appreciate her brand new self, Mrs. Hudson lifted her hand towards the exaggerated black-framed spectacles on Sally's face, seemingly going to help Sally remove the glasses to finish up the final touch of the transformation.
Those black-framed spectacles were indeed the last obstacle.
Once removed, Tang Qi could imagine that an almost elven girl would appear in front of him.
Yet, he didn't know why that when Tang Qi watched Mrs. Hudson's movement, his head suddenly started rumbling loudly, like it was about to explode. His hairs stood up, and his scalp tingled. A strong sense of foreboding that he had never felt before surged madly inside him at this moment. 
"Wait—"
"Ah~"
When Tang Qi's words to stop her had just started, the black-framed glasses were already taken off by Mrs. Hudson.
Ring!
Abrupt changes happened instantly.
Tang Qi stared back at Sally, or more accurately, Sally's reflection in the mirror.


When the spiritual barrier that has been intact for a hundred years is shattered by a meteor, spiritual energy that had disappeared starts to return. The mystical realm slowly begins its revival—magic, witchcraft, curses, supernatural lifeforms, strange and mysterious legends, monsters and gods from other worlds… The old world order collapses, yet the new order is mystifying and chaotic.
Just before the unprecedented reformation is here, Tang Qi awakens and finds himself hung on the cross, having turned into an inferior demon and in great pain and agony…
With his special ability to see through the nature of all things from the mystical realm and a sly and crafty mind, follow Tang Qi as he develops new skills and powers—as well as making new friends and allies—to battle and protect himself from never before seen supernatural threats in an unfamiliar world!


It had been 4 days and prom was a wee away. Kuroo came up with the genius idea of 'helping' Kenma pick a suit. After class was over Kuroo dragged Kenma off to the tailor for a fitting. Truth be told Kenma had planned on wearing a blazer and sweatpants. If only it were that easy he thought as then walked into the tailors. Not too long after their arrival Kenma was  quickly seized by tailors. Measuring and pulling and turning. It lasted a while but they eventually got all the things they needed. Now that the hard part was over they were ready to select the suite pieces they thought would best suit him. After going through a red suit, a blue suit, a brown suit, and a white suit They finally found one that looked right. It was a traditional black suite. One of the tailors quickly added a red tie with gold accent to complement the gold cuff links of the sleeves of the suit jacket, and the small gold detail of the lip on the dress should someone had shoved at him. After looking down at all the things that had been piled on him he eventually walked out of the fitting room. He came out from behind the curtain and saw Kuroo sitting on a sofa, legs crossed with the same laid back expression he always had. He got up to take a closer look at the outfit as Kenma stepped out further into the main room. "Hmm." Kuroo looked indifferent towards the suite. Maybe it was the shoes, or… the tie Kenma thought as his palms got sweaty. 
"W-what do you think?" He tried to ask as noshelantly as possible, as he looked away glancing across the room. After a moment of awkward silence Kuroo finally exhaled and answered his question.
 "I think the black is simplistic and not too flashy , making it more elegant, so it works for you. I like the red, it adds a little bit of color without throwing off the minimalistic dynamic of the set. And I like the subtle gold accents because they bring out your eyes." 
Kenma was taken aback by that, he had no clue that Kuroo really thought about this. It made the situation a little less unbearable. He was embarrassed and had to say something in response.  
"Are you even supposed to be here? Isn't it bad luck or something?" 
Kenma said as he walked out further into the room, making his way over to the mirrors. 
"What are we? Getting married?" Kuroo asked as he walked to his right, meeting Kenma by the mirrors as he nuzzled his chin into kenma's shoulder, and slid his hands around his waist. Kenma blushed at the thought but quickly tried to cover it with hostility.
 "Well if you like it, it'll work." Kenma said, trying to look anywhere but  the mirrors now. "It doesn't matter if I like it, it matters if you like it. Do you like it, Kenma?" He asked as he hugged him a little bit tighter and rested the side of his face on Kenmas neck.
 " Yeah I like it-" Kenma said as he started to blush, trying to pry Kuroo's arms off of his waist. "Will you get off me so I can go change?" He asked, still trying to break away from Kuroo. 
"Change? Already? But I like Kenma in a suit, just 5 more minutes?" He asked, still not letting go. "No you'll see plenty of the actual night of the dance, now let go you clingy chicken!" At this point he was squirming like a cat in a bathtub, it seemed the more he resisted the more Kuroo attached. He finally let go, a look of confusion flushed across his face.
 "Chicken? Well if i'm a chicken then I guess that makes you my ki-" "No!" Kenma said forcefully as he covered Kuroo's mouth. "Do not say that." Kenma ordered as he slowly let go of Kuroo's face, proceeding with caution. 
" FiNe… My gInGeR cAt." "WHAT DID I SAY!" "What? You said I couldn't call you Kitten." "Kuroo!" 
"Alright, alright. Go change and we'll grab lunch." He just glared at Kuroo for a second before retreating to the fitting room to change back into his clothes.

two best friends who have been inseparable their entire lives realize that they are both in love with each other, and have no idea how to tell one another how they truly feel until it finally comes out one day on the walk to school...

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