I did promise to serve the country, but I vowed to love you.

✽――――――――――✽
.
.

After arriving several meters away from the orphanage, Xael and her Uncles dismounted their horse. Sigvard and Sigfred immediately took their swords while Xael fished out a large silk fabric with the size of a shawl.

Even though Sigvard and Sigfred were clueless on what she's doing, they didn't question her as they trusted her enough to do that.

The orphanage was your classic two story building. Everything is made in bricks and stone though the window is not as secured as it was in the modern world.

It was a good thing that both her Uncles were familiar at this place's hidden passageways that they were able to quickly cross over.

As they entered the back door, Xael spotted a well toned man sitting near the fire place. It was not even spring but the man seemed to be enjoying the heat the fire place kept providing. Several of them were dozing off, while others would either be playing with cards or brandishing their weapons.

In the center of the room, the children including the nuns were on their knees while covering the kids from the eyes of the barbarians.

Looks like, the man near the hearth was in charge.

This mission would have been solved by a single person; needless to say, she only has twelve minutes left. Xael slowly leaned to one of the shoji* before tapping it lightly.

A skill she earnestly tried to master in one of her mission, she was able to produce a vibration of 20,000 hertz. A sound only kids or people with great healthy body could hear.

Like she expected, few of the children subconsciously turned their heads towards her. Though risky, as a distraction, Sigvard threw a vase outside the window.

While Xael was motioning the kids to move away, the man in charge slowly stood up aiming to walk near the kids. As if he was planning something, he stretched out his hand only for him to be grabbed by Sigfred.

As an intruder showed up, the barbarians were now on the move. Xael didn't step out in the frontline as Sigfred and Sigvard did the job, charging with their swords, they cleanly dealt with the barbarians one stepped at a time.

Unexpectedly, the man in charge actually has some capability as he slipped away from the brother's hands. He ran to the kids who were now near the altar, scaring them. Due to that, a girl suddenly knocked over a clothed table with a few lighted candles on top, sending all of it down.

A small fire has begun to set ablaze.

"Ouch! It hurts!" The girl exclaimed, it seemed like she received some burn from the candles.

The man, who's clearly in rage because of the scene, grabbed on one of the people near him before trying to commit some violence, his fist almost landed on the nun's chest until a strong forced hammer his hand away.

Xael who's only looking from the side stepped in. The fabric she held earlier were now soaked with water. She didn't wait for anymore stupid second as she charged towards the man sending a powerful kick on his chin.

She grabbed his wrist before flinging him like a sack of rice on the floor. Leaving the lackeys on her uncles, Xael unfurled her wet fabric before she kept on swatting the fire.

Taking her lead, the children and the nuns prioritized on extinguishing the fire before it spread even further. On the other side, Sigfred and Sigvard were not having too much of an easy time.

Sensing their vexation, Xael entered the fight to balance out the offense.

Before she could even react, the man from earlier attacked her with a sword that was heated with the fire from the hearth, pointing out to her as it aims on her head.

Damn! So that's why he's camping over there!

Though before his sword manage to even get closer, Xael immediately whipped the wet fabric on the weapon sending it in the air before whipping it again in the man's face.

Loud shriek was heard as the man grabbed his face while groveling on the floor. The melted metal that came off with the fabric was sent directly to his face, it's impossible to not react with that.

His agonizing demoralized his companion making the whole process a lot easier. With a minute before the time limit, both Sigfred and Sigvard subdued all the barbarians present in the area.

Tsk. Easy gain!

.
.
▃▃▃▃▃▃▃▃▃▃

" H I D D E N   M I S S I O N "

"To Save the Children of the Orphanage"
.
.

*M I S S I O N C O M P L E T E*
.
.

" Rewards "

Reward 1: A great backer for the main mission.

Reward 2: An item to support you on the next world.
.
〚 Accept 〛 〚 Decline 〛

▃▃▃▃▃▃▃▃▃▃
.
.

Hearing the completion of her mission, Xael gazed at the altar, seeing the burnt cloth and materials before moving her gaze away.

After the fight, the backup people Sigvard called out helped on assisting everyone in the orphanage. For some, it would be traumatic especially that the children that reside there were taken care in a quiet and almost peaceful surrounding.

Xael was wondering herself on where Marshell was, he was old enough to protect this kids. Aside from that, Father Ryuu didn't mention anything about him.

As Xael decided to wait for Marshell, the sun started to set yet even a shadow was not seen. He was then urged by her Uncles to leave, having no choice to do so, Xael left to go home.

Thinking that the show was over, Xael sighed only to find herself being directed in the hall by her Grandfather.

The hall was big enough to cater three hundred persons comfortably, the floor was covered in Chinese tiles while the wall was designed with carves that is pleasing to the eye.

As she walked inside, the one that greeted her was a solemn looking Grandfather and her ever beloved fiancé, Charles.

Looking excited on the outside, Xael continued to where her grandfather is.

"Grandfather, I'm back." Xael looked at Charles with expectant eyes yet his domineering atmosphere didn't even waver.

Charles cupped both of his hands, standing up straight. "Since the other party is here, then I'll be straight to the point." He looked at General Atticus' eyes before saying, "I'm here to cancel the marriage engagement between me and Xael."

"Activate Command!《 Mission : Destroy the Ending 》!"

【 Welcome to Eternal Void Space 】...

【 I'm the System : Afterlife 0021 】...

【 Host : Xael Zaitsev-Wilczynski 】...

【 Main Mission : Fulfill Your Regrets 】...

【 Reward : Your Ultimate Desire 】...

✤ ✽ ∗ -- - - - - - - -

What does it mean to fall in love? 
Everyone has their own definition when it comes to this powerful words, some are negative while others are positive, a number may care but there's still a few who didn't.

But in what category does Xael's love fit in.
For her fated one, she'll turn impossible to possible.
For that man, she'll break through even heaven and hell.
For Zeether, she'll destroy every ending that could rip them apart.

✤ ✽ ∗ -- - - - - - - -

Xael and Zeether has always been the perfect couple, they are both powerful and smart, more importantly, they possessed the love that anyone would envy about. They would share their laughs and pains, go through every trouble and success, even share their tiniest secrets. Xael thought that the only thing that would break them apart is when they are six feet below the ground leaving the world when they are older.

But she was very wrong.

That day, every thing changed. It should have been the happiest moment of her life but what welcomed her was the death of her very beloved. 

Due to depression, Xael has made one of the biggest decision of her life.

"I just need to destroy the end of our love, even your death will never break us apart. I will follow you even if I have to turn everything into ashes. I won't let you go. You are mine and I am yours. "

It was the DK Organization attacking them.
However, there was no turning back now and An Xiaoning had been successfully brought to a safe ground. 
As soon as they landed, she heard him grunt in pain. Clearly, his calf had yet to recover completely. 
An Xiaoning held onto him, and a lump formed in her throat as she asked, "Qingyan, what do we do now? I wonder how the children are doing now." 
"He's after us, not the children. His purpose for kidnapping the children is just so he could threaten us. He won't touch the children before he kills us. After all, if the children were to die, he would lose his trump card. I've already received a text message from Xihou Jiaping."
"What did he say?"
"He said that he wants me to give up my life in exchange for the children being released. Which means that by coming here, not only will you be unable to see the children, you'd also be losing your life."
"I know. I know that it won't be easy to rescue the children, but I don't have another option," she said. 
"Weren't we already certain of that when they were kidnapped? I only agreed to let you come because I wanted to verify if he's still in S Nation. Otherwise, why would I want you to make this wasted trip?" he said, staring at her.
"He's indeed not in M Nation." 
"I've already verified that. I left the estate via the secret passageway in the cellar. Apart from a few people, everyone else thinks that I'm still in Wei Ni Estate. Xihou Jiaping is still after me right now. He must still be in S Nation. As long as he's in S Nation, there'd be no escape for him."
An Xiaoning did not understand what he meant at all. "Why is there no escape for him as long as he's in S Nation?"
"Xiaoning, do you remember what day it is tomorrow?"
"It's the 15th of July, Yiheng's and my birthday…"
"Correct…"
"What does that have to do with him?" 
He held her hand and interlocked fingers with her. "You'll find out when the time comes." 
—
"Sis Erlan, just what's going on? Why has Cousin gone missing again?" Xiao Yue asked. 
"He has something important to handle," said Fang Erlan, who had no idea what was going on either. She only knew that Xiao Chenyang had appeared extremely austere after reading a text message and left in a hurry. 
The studio transferred the two bodyguards to her again. 
"What important matter is it? He's gone again after leaving all of a sudden last time," said Xiao Yue, who was in low spirits because she could not see him. 
"I'm not too sure either." 
"Didn't Cousin tell you? He couldn't have gone for a matchmaking session, could he?" Xiao Yue asked in puzzlement. 
"Matchmaking session? I don't think so," Fang Erlan said firmly. 
"Sis Erlan, you must know where he lives, then."
Fang Erlan said, "He lives in A City… with me. Don't you already know that?"
"I meant his own home."
"His own home… I'm not too sure."
"Why are you so unsure about everything…? Cousin seems to know everything about you but you barely know anything about him," remarked a bewildered Xiao Yue. 
"I'll go take a nap in the van. Wake me up at two o'clock."
"Okay."
Once she got inside the nanny van, she dialed Xiao Chenyang's number. 
The call went through, and his ringtone was a melancholic melody. 
It exuded a classic vibe. 
Xiao Chenyang answered a short while later.
"What is it?" he answered coldly.
She could tell what his mood was from the way he sounded. 
"Are you feeling out of sorts?" she asked.
"What's the matter?" he asked, knowing clearly that she wouldn't call him unless something had happened. 
"Nothing…" 
"Focus on filming, take your meals regularly, and get sufficient sleep. Don't open the door to strangers at night, men in particular." 
He emphasized on the last sentence. 
Fang Erlan answered, "Got it." 
After ending the call, Fang Erlan let out a huge sigh and reclined the seat in a bid to lie down. 
She heard a sound coming from the window, and she cocked her head sideways to see that it was Yan Ge.
She opened the door to let him in. 
"What are you doing alone in the car?" 
"I'm planning to take a short nap." 
"Did you not sleep well last night? You seem to be unwell," he said, staring at her.
"I had a night of dreams. I haven't been getting any quality sleep lately." 
"If my mother had said anything to you, don't take her words to heart. Her bark is worse than her bite," said Yan Ge.
"Auntie didn't say anything to me. We're getting along fine. However, she wanted me to replace my bodyguard. I really can't do that," Fang Erlan said with a faint smile.
"I've already explained that to her, rest assured. Why isn't he around?"
"He has something to handle."
"Erlan, just who is he? Could you tell me?" Yan Ge asked. 
Shaking her head, Fang Erlan said, "I only know a little about him. There are many things that I'm unaware of." 
"Tell me everything that you know, then, so that I can prepare myself mentally." 
"I can't, but he's not a vile character."
"Frankly speaking, I've already gotten someone to check on him. However, I didn't manage to find out anything at all. It seems like he really just popped up out of nowhere. Clearly, he's been keeping his information highly confidential." 
"He showed up in my life all of a sudden too." Fang Erlan kicked her shoes off and placed her feet against the seat in front of her. She continued, "I still don't get just what his reasons are…" 
Why did he do this to me…?
It seems as if he had targeted me.
"Which one matters more to you, your career or your family?"
Fang Erlan turned to look at him and answered, "Family, of course. However, career is just as important. What's the point of living if you can't be with the person whom you fancy? Likewise, where's the meaning in life if you can't do what you like?"
"Would you be willing to give up your career for the sake of that person whom you fancy, then?" 
"Can't that person and my career co-exist?" 
Yan Ge reclined his seat and lied down. Staring at her, he said, "I want to hear the truth. Would you be willing?" 
"I shall answer you truthfully, then. If I'm willing to give up my career for that person, that person must mean more to me than my life does."
Yan Ge smiled and did not probe any further, because he did not wish to know if he meant more to her than her life did.
Noticing that he was not saying anything, Fang Erlan wrapped her arm around his waist and leaned closer toward him. "Unless I want to quit the showbiz industry out of my own accord, I wouldn't leave. Anyone who compels me to give up my career is so despicable." 
"…" 
—
After cruising on the ocean for a long while, the ship finally arrived at Mingshan Island at dusk.


After discovering about her wealthy husband's affair, she humiliates the adulterous pair on the streets and divorces him the very next morning. Just as everyone anticipates her downfall, she goes on to marry the most brilliant bachelor in the nation whom her unfaithful former husband cannot hold a candle to!

"Aren't your mother's legs always hurting? It hasn't gotten any better despite seeking help from various doctors."
"How did you know that?"
"Not only do I know why her legs hurt, I can also treat her condition."
"As long as you can treat my mother, I'll give you anything you want."
"I want money."

After An Xiaoning uses her psychic powers to break the curse of a poltergeist, she earns herself a fortune as well as a perfect man of her dreams.  

Don't be daunted by her psychic powers, for this book isn't terrifying at all!

It is currently 09:12, and I'm sitting on the Audi Quattro Sport S1E2, grinning like an idiot.
Then I thought to myself, Its been 2 hours since the-
*ding* "The Map has been completed, please use it." (UI)
Just I was about to say "the map scanning began", the map has been completed. Right, time to do some exploring.
"UI, Project Map!"
"Affirm, projecting map." (UI)
In front of me is a flat map being projected out of nowhere. I can control it via touch. I immediately zoomed in to my location, looked around and... hmm? Is this France? Currently I am located in where Le Cros is supposed to be in my former world, but its not there. Although geographically-wise, its the same.

In any case, instead of using the Group B Audi Quattro, I would be more safer to just use a bullet proof car, because there might be bullets flying onto me from firearms. A suitable one would be a Hummer H1 with a bulletproof main body, though unfortunately not the hood, if it were made with bulletproof material, it would weigh a lot, thus unable to access the engine using only my manpower.

"UI, spawn change to Hummer H1"
"Affirmative, shutting down engine of Audi Quattro Sport S1E2" (UI)
"Spawned Hummer H1" (UI)
"UI, change engine to Duramax 6.6L V8 L5P with Alison 1000 Gen 4 transmission"
"Engine and Transmission Changed. ERROR, incorrect wiring, Automatically Fix?" (UI)
"Yes"
"Installing new wiring harness... Operation Complete" (UI)

The engine I used is a newest generation Duramax 6.6L engine, the L5P, which is capable of 550bhp by design. The transmission is the classic Allison 1000 transmission with the Gen 4 that added a 6th gear.

~~—~~—~~—~~—~~—~~—~~—

Just I was about to enter the "main" road and exit this gravel road made specifically to connect to my house, there was 3 carriages passing by, in the middle is a caged carriage with multiple people inside. Wait is that a Slave Merchant? I don't know that slavery still exists here. But I'm gonna follow it and see where it goes, because this is a crime in and on itself.

There were 3 teenage girls inside, and 2 children, one boy, and one girl. Now am I gonna go full hero and save them? I mean it seems logical but at the same time, it also feels like a crime "kidnapping" kidnapped children. But whatever I'm gonna follow these carriages, if they suspect me of this large honker, the Hummer H1 of course, I don't care, as long as I can save them.

So I slowly creep onto the back of a carriage that is probably a guard carriage, of course they immediately noticed and they we're pointing guns at me. Sorry but this damn heavy H1 is bulletproof. But... they didn't fire a shot at me, they yelled to the other carriages that there is me, who is currently looking at them with a straight face. Their speed was around 40 km/h, I can outrun them but its illogical to do. 

They stopped, and I also stopped. A man in his 50's came out from the front carriage together with 2 "guards" or ruffians in thier 20's.

"Hey what is this thing? What are your intentions to follow us?" (Slave Merchant)
Aree? suddenly pushing a question?
*rolled down the window by a bit* "I'm here to just cruise man, what do you want?"
"You need to hand this thing over to us, or you'll end up in there!" (Slave Merchant)
Woah, aggressive man out here, plus the two ruffians have their guns pointed at me, as if to threaten me. Sorry I'm not handing you something that doesn't exist in this word. I rolled up the windows and got ready.
"UI, spawn P51 with 3 Magazines"
"Objects spawned." (UI)
*windows down again, just by a tiny bit* "Hey, if you threaten me like that, how about me threatening you?"
"Heh, if thats even possible. You'll die you know?" (Slave Merchant)
"Yeah go ahead and try me."
"Fire!" (Slave Merchant)
*bang bang* "Gunshots, 2 bullets fired." (UI)
"Wha? How can it not penetrate the glass?"
"Aight, is it my time then?"
*All 50 bullets shot in the air*
"Hiiii—!!!" (Slave Merchant and the 2 ruffians)
Oho, they got scared. Alright, threatening works. Now it's time to deal with the Slaves.
*reloading* "You're scared huh, now hand me the slaves, or else... you get to take another 50 bullets."

Higashifuyu Patora was living in a normal life in Sendai. Doing random stuff on his home, owned previously by his parents that now lives abroad in Italy. 

But at 4AM JST, he, and his whole house was forced to another world similar to earth, a “Parallel Earth”. The one behind it is unknown, and was given an abnormal ability to copy something in the previous world with exact parameters, functionality and etc., and paste it in the “Parallel Earth”, all without using any materials and/or power at all.


But can he survive in the similar Earth, set in an Unknown century? Of course he can, but can he keep the secret of having such an ability in the world?

Songsong took his words as gospel truth. She couldn't look away from the mirror and giggled as she daydreamed about growing up into a beauty.
Seeing her silly expression, Sheng Yize couldn't help but smile.
Walking past them while cleaning the room, Auntie Mo felt her heart melt when she saw the look on his face.
Young Master Ze… seemed to be coming out of his autistic world.
Back then, even Sheng Yize himself didn't realize how colorful and bright his life had become with Songsong around.
She was a ray of light, illuminating his entire world.
The girl had walked into his heart and left her mark there. It was impossible to forget her ever since.
-
Songsong didn't like going to school, so Sheng Yize tutored her while he taught himself.
For Songsong, Sheng Yize was her very first teacher. 
The first Chinese character Sheng Yize taught her to write was "Song" and the second "Ze."
She clumsily held the pencil and practiced conscientiously. However, when she spoke, it was still "Brother Ah Zhe."
"Dummy! When will you be able to tell 'z,' 'c,' 's' from 'zh,' 'ch,' 'sh'[1]!" he said with disdain.
"I can tell the difference!" Songsong said, puffing up her cheeks.
The boy raised an eyebrow. "Repeat after me, then. She sells seashells by the seashore."
Songsong opened her mouth. "She sells… sea… bah… forget it!"
She threw a cushion at Sheng Yize, then stormed off to sit on the other end of the sofa.
Sheng Yize darted her a quick glance, but finally moved over, lending his thigh to her as a pillow as she watched TV.
She was watching Qiong Yao's classic TV romance series "Romance in the Rain." A couple of minutes into the show, there was a kissing scene.
Sheng Yize intervened resolutely and covered Songsong's eyes.
"Hm… Go away! Why are you covering my eyes?!"
"It's unsuitable for children." His reply was succinct.
"What does that mean? Aren't you a child, too? Why can you watch it but I can't?" Songsong pouted. Sheng Yize, who had always been eloquent, was caught off-guard by that question.
After a brief moment of silence, he said, "So, if I tell you what they're doing, is that ok with you?"
"How can I know if my eyes are covered? What are Yiping and Shuhuan do… hm…" Still babbling, she was suddenly silenced by a cool and soft sensation on her lips. It reminded her of jelly, and had a faint fragrance to it.
With her eyes covered, everything was dark, which only magnified the sensation on her lips… 
Was this what Yiping and Shuhuan were doing?
Songsong was bemused. Sheng Yize's nice voice rang out at that moment. "You've taken my first kiss. You'll have to be responsible for me from now on!"
"Huh?" Her lips glistened and the look in her eyes was innocent. Her dummy expression cheered him up greatly.
"It's ok if you don't understand. You can stay a dummy like this and I won't mind even if you get really chubby and ugly." The smile on Sheng Yize's face was very gentle.
I'll like you no matter what you become.
Little meatball, I never knew your taste was this sweet.
-
In the ward, An Xiaxia slowly opened her eyes. She had yet to get used to the bright light and had to squint for a while to adjust.
A pair of big hands clutched hers immediately, then there came a voice that was a little husky. "Xiaxia… you're awake…"
An Xiaxia blinked. Sunlight seemed to limn the teenager in front of her in a golden color and he looked as wonderful as in her memories.
Her lips moved and the words she uttered instantly dazed Sheng Yize.
"It's been a while, Brother Ah Ze."
[1] "Z, c, s" and "zh, ch, sh" are all consonants in pinyin — the romanization system for Standard Chinese. "Z, c, s" are alveolars, while "zh, ch, sh" are retroflexes.


As an anti-fan of the idol group, Starry Night, An Xiaxia is happy to spend her time online slandering lead singer Sheng Yize. 

But things take an unexpected turn when An Xiaxia starts high school - the Starry Night trio somehow becomes her classmates, and even end up moving into her house. 

Also, the nation’s idol Sheng Yize seems particularly interested in An Xiaxia for some reason...

Sheng Yize: Xiaxia, if I and a chicken wing fall into the water together, which one will you save?

An Xiaxia: Hm… I can't swim, so obviously you're going to save yourself and get my chicken wing out!

Sheng Yize: I thought I was the nation’s idol???

Ulric was a classic guy, he had traditions
Ulric, poor charming Ulric. I met him around Russia in cold winter, I still remember how my eyes caught in his slicked-back hair, he had a perfect posture and carrying a messenger's bag and walking hurriedly his black cloak trailing behind, as he was nearing my direction I threw myself in the ground, I didn't even bother to try to not hurt myself, I would heal, there is worse, much worse.
"Madam, are you okay?"
I grabbed his arm for support and I stood up. Ulric smiled and quickly frowned, "Why?" then I noticed I was covered in snow. I did not think of my now scratched face but I wish I had thought of my expensive coat, the manufacturer is probably dead so...
"I-I will be ok-okay,"
I wrapped my arms around myself, half of me was covered in a thin, almost nonexistent sheet of snow, he frowned and lent me his jacket. I timidly placed it on, after that, I ungloved my hand and touched his face, his eyes lit up and twinkled in the frosty light. Ulric offered to walk me home after gently taking my hand away from his face and I delightfully accepted.
╡✥╞
Ulric was an old soul, I could feel it. Maybe I had met him in a past life, it happened, my picks never got enough, they always needed more. Ulric always dressed as if he was trapped somewhere in the mid-1800's he acted as though he was a 50's teen humming Elvis Presley tunes and ballads. He was full of traditions, some of which I experienced myself. He always called me up at 7:10 pm, because he knew I had already eaten dinner, he had never entered my house and he always had a flower for me when we went out, normally marigolds, he said they reminded him of my hair.
Ulric was a poet, he showed me new perspectives of the world, he could manipulate the world and bend it. A hairbrush was just a hairbrush until he talked about the symbolism it could hold to someone, maybe it was from their late mother, maybe it was a gift from somebody, maybe it could be a threat.
The traditions and protocols Ulric was so eager to accomplish made the task easier, all I had to do was play along, he sent heart touching poems that did not touch mine because my heart did nothing else but beat, and it sometimes stopped doing so, oh the pain and misfortune of feeling your chest and being greeted only by the hollow silence.
Let us get back to Ulric, backstories are useless and unimportant, especially if they happened millions of years ago. Ulric wrote letters, poems, and once even a song, I was waiting eagerly for him to take it up a notch, so much for classic courting, it could either painfully long or extremely short. There was no in-between.
╡✥╞

Ulric was taking so long, he was being shy, slow, stupid, he was overthinking and I could not stand it. His traditions were repetitive, too many words filled me up, I needed the rest of them, his most sacred ones, the ones he had never revealed to anybody, the ones he kept buried inside, I needed those to fill up, to finally tear-away from him. I decided to spice things up, so I decided to ask him to be my boyfriend. I remember exactly the day...
It was just like how that song goes, I was feeling good that day, well not feeling because I can't feel it. I was just better, prettier, healthier that day. I remember how Ulric had twirled me once before pulling me in a hug. I remember how I asked him to take a walk with me around the park. I remember taking him to a partly isolated part. I remember how as he twirled me once again to pull me in a hug I kissed him.
His first kiss.
My probable thousandth kiss. (I stopped counting a long time ago.)
Our first kiss.
But what really mattered is that he thought that was also my first kiss, he pulled away first, surprised but with a faint smile painted on his lips, then after giving me another quick peck he carried me away, he let go of himself, and he finally caved.
╡✥╞

"You are more precious than a Garnet,"
I almost didn't feel it, the door was so quiet, so subtle when it opened, the traditions crept up slowly to the open door, curious to escape the comforting grasp of Ulric's grasp, too excited and eager to try something new! All of them tumbled into an abyss before sensing the danger. Garnet, why? Because I was becoming a family to him, a tradition. His grandfather had been the owner of this important mining business and guess near what mine he grew up? A Garnet mine! His traditions ranged a lot, there were short sweet ones that woke me up in the morning, long ones that rocked me to sleep. There were sweet ones that accompanied me to lunch and sour ones that drove me home. There were formal ones that traveled around with me and casual ones that lay down with me. There were happy ones that required fake smiles and sad ones that required fake sympathy.
╡✥╞

"Calliope, will you marry me?"
That was his last, most sacred, tradition, the one he was thought to cherish so much, to value, and to give to the right person. He thought he had finally found her. The girl who would walk with him every Sunday afternoon, who he would escort to work every day. The girl who would cook all kinds of desserts for visits, to whom he would open the door every day. The girl who would always comfort him when things did not go as planned, who he could take out and spoil just because he felt like it.
I said yes, and the shock of all of those traditions almost knocked me to the past, the bitter memory of them stinging my timeless self. How many wedding dresses have I worn? A hundred to say the least, but how many meant something to me? One, and thank the fates up above that I would never be able to make the same mistake twice.
Ulric was beyond happy, he gave me his Nana's ring and proposed on his family country home. A lot of traditions came to me, including dresses, special recipes, and of course, the last name. Traditions were all Ulric had and they could be really special because I knew this time I wouldn't find him again, once I left him, there wouldn't be a return sign.


╡✥╞

I left Ulric alone at the altar, I left with his ring and heart. I recall feeling his soul and spirit call for me, to come back, to save him, heal him. But for him, there was no such thing as healing, especially if it was coming from me.
Ulric got married again, seven times.  All of them were rushed marriages with mistresses who were expecting, he became a womanizer and left children across his town. Right now he is trying to divorce himself to marry his newest toy and meet his newest offspring.
His Traditions Are Mine.

The Nine Muses
...
Dark, ruthless, and careless, that is how you describe a Muse.  They may inspire you and make you feel better but slowly they take the most precious thing about you away and all it takes is one touch!                                                 Even an accidental one.
...
Calliope
The red-headed muse, an inspiration to so many men, 
the doom of so many men.  The doom of humanity.
She allures.
...
Contains swearing and strong themes. Read at your own risk.

It seemed to Anna that the week fairly flew.  Her daily routine hadnt changed much, except for the extra riding session with Angus every afternoon.  And Angus in her bed each night.  

She worked to ignore the nagging notion that when his time at Sweetwater Ranch was over, hed jet off to his exciting Hollywood life, and shed be alone again, teaching yet another group of young riders in support of the family business.

There had been a time when shed had aspirations of finding her own place in the world.  Even now, she kept up with the riding program in central Florida via their regular email newsletter, still unable to shake the notion that life in the Sunshine State would be exotic and exciting.  And she craved the opportunity to distinguish herself from her family.  

At one time, shed even envisioned a life with Sawyer there, with her guiding special-needs children on horseback each day while he did whatever it was hed do after he gave up his dangerous line of work.  In her fantasies, they lived in a beautiful home on the beach.  On weekends, theyd relax together at the waters edge and live a happily-ever-after life.

But when hed perished in that wildfire, her dreams had all but faded away.  Guilt-ridden as she was, it had been all shed been able to manage, simply putting one foot in front of the other.  The family ranch had been a haven against a cruel and unjust world.

Now, Angus had breached the wall shed built.  Silently, she questioned the wisdom of letting him in as she had.  He insisted that their time together meant more to him than just sex.  She supposed he might say that to all the women he bedded.  

Och, and yer deep in thought.  His deep brogue rumbled through the barn.

Anna made one more brush stroke down Luckys back and gave Angus what she hoped was a bright smile as she dropped the brush into a waiting bucket.  I was just thinking about tonight.

His lips curled in a pleased smile.  Aye, the dance.  The wee ones did a fine job in the parade this morning.

They did.  I was so proud of the kids.  Anna pictured her novice cowpokes riding down Main Street and waving madly at the assembled crowd lining the street.

Im grateful ye had the time to work wi me this afternoon.  His blue eyes sparkled with intensity.

Anna shrugged lightly.  Why would I not?  The dance is still a couple of hours away.  Theres plenty of time to shower and get ready.

Still, he said, leaning down to kiss her lips tenderly.  Im grateful for everything yer doin tae help me.

Just over two hours later, there was a knock on Annas front door.  Surveying herself in the bathroom mirror, she blew out a shaky breath and smoothed the front of her dress.  The new floral-patterned frock hit her about mid-thigh, and the bodice fit her nicely.  Shed planned to wear an older dress from the back of her closet.  Not like Angus had ever seen her in a dress anyway, but ultimately, shed caved, purchasing a new one online and having it shipped in two days.  Shed paired the dress with her best boots, and as she made her way to the door, she was thankful that her feet were all but completely healed.

The sassy remark shed had ready died on her lips as she swung open the door to find Angus grinning down at her.  

Hallo, love.  

His sapphire eyes sparkled, their color enhanced by the pale Carolina blue chambray shirt he wore.  The sleeves were rolled up to reveal his muscular forearms, and his faded jeans fit oh-so-right.  Recently work-worn cowboy boots completed the look.

When her gaze traveled back up to his face, his lips were pursed in amusement.

Realizing her mouth was hanging open, she snapped it shut.  Um, hi!

Ye look amazin.  Honestly, Anna, he growled softly, I could take ye right here.

She felt her eyes widen as simultaneously her nether regions registered enthusiastic interest.  Holy shit, she breathed.

However, Angus added as he offered her his elbow, as we have a date, I shall endeavor to control m self.  For now.  

When he arched an eyebrow, Annas panties felt just a tiny bit damper.  Holy shit!

Anguss arm snaked around her waist, and his right palm lightly rested on her back.  With his left hand, he tenderly held Annas right one to his chest as the pair swayed to the country ballad being played by the local band on the makeshift stage.  Anna lightly rested her forehead on his chin and closed her eyes as she hummed along to the classic song.  For the moment, she couldnt care less about who saw them or what they thought.  She knew she was well and truly in love, and she was content to lose herself in the moment.

As the song ended, Angus pulled her to himself and pressed a kiss to the top of her head.  Would ye like tae find a drink?  Im parched, he murmured.

Stepping back, Anna smiled and nodded.  Lets go.

She was vaguely aware of her parents attention as she and Angus passed their table on the way to the nearest bar.  

The enormous open barn was the only permanent structure at the county fairground located on the outskirts of Eagleton.  At various times throughout the year, it hosted events like livestock auctions, town meetings, antique car shows, and craft fairs.  

For Founders Day, the place was decorated with streamers, balloons, and vintage lanterns.  The back half was set up with long rows of picnic tables covered with red and white checkered cloths.  The other half was open to allow for dancing before the small stage that had been set up at the end.  

Along either side, two bars offered various libations, both alcoholic and family-friendly as well.   Angus ordered a beer for Anna and lemonade for himself.  Drinks in hand, they headed back toward the table where the elder Graves sat with some of the ranch guests.

As they approached the table, the Hilliards hurried off after Ariel and Thomas, who wanted to play the childrens games that were set up just outside the barn.  Anna and Angus took their seats across from her parents.

Anna worked to ignore the Cheshire-like grin her mother only half attempted to hide.  

You two looked lovely out there, Teresa commented.  How nice that you enjoy one anothers company like you do.  You almost look like you belong together.

Angus flashed her a dazzling grin.  Aye, its great fun, dancin.  The pair of ye should go out there.

Its what I keep telling Tom, Annas mother said, patting her husbands arm, but he just wont budge.

Now Mother, Mr. Graves protested, well make it out there for at least one song, I promise.  Im just waiting for the right moment.

Right moment, my fanny, Teresa quipped, rolling her eyes.  Then she leaned forward on her elbows and lowered her voice conspiratorially.  Now, back to you two

Mom?  Pop?  Id like you to meet someone.  

Anna looked up to see that Ross had approached the table.  Beside him stood Christopher, who nodded to Anna and Angus.  

Before anyone could say anything, Ross plunged ahead.  Mom and Pop, this is Christopher.  Hes a doctor in Eagleton.  Christopher, meet my parents, Tom and Teresa Graves.

Christopher stepped forward, offering his right hand.  Hello!  Its lovely to meet you.  Ross had told me so much about you and your ranch.

When no one said anything, Annas heart pounded, and beneath the table, she gripped Anguss thigh.  She glanced up at Ross, who had a determined set to his jaw.  

He breathed in deeply and squared his shoulders. Christopher and I have been dating for the last couple of years, and I thought it was time that you met him.

For Anna, time stood still as the elder Graves froze for a moment.  Then Tom moved first, rising to shake Christophers hand.  Its a pleasure, he said with a grin.  

Teresas eyes glistened with unshed tears as she stood and threw her arms around Christopher.  Oh, my!  Im so happy to meet you!  Finally!  She kissed his cheek affectionately.  We knew Ross has someone special, we just didnt know who.

Annas eyes went to Ross, who released the breath hed been holding, and he seemed to deflate a little in relief.  Well...okay, then.  Now that thats done.  He looked from his lover to his parents and back again.  I think well head out to the dance floor.

Have fun, you two, Teresa said.  And Christopher?  You must come to dinner Sunday evening.  Well be between guest sessions, and the ranch will be nice and peaceful.

Christopher nodded gratefully.  Yes, maam.  Id be honored.

The four watched as Ross and Christopher made their way toward the other end of the barn.

Toms mustache shifted with amusement, and he held out his right palm toward his wife.

Oh, for heavens sake, right now?

A bets a bet.  Pay up, Mother.

Wait a minute, Anna said incredulously.  You two had a bet about Ross?

Her father grinned mischievously.  We had a bet about Ross and you.  We were wagering on which one of you would come clean about your love life first.  And I won.

Oh, for fu"  Anna bit off the end of her sentiment.  Unbelievable, she muttered under her breath as her face reddened.

Teresa reached into her bag and rooted around, finally coming out with a ten-dollar bill.  Yes, you won.  Here.  Are you happy now?  She slapped the money into Toms hand.

Yes, I most assuredly am, he laughed. Im ecstatic.  Come on, now.  Ill buy you a cocktail.



JENNY’S VOICE
Jenny is a traumatized young woman who was held hostage for years.

Cole is the rancher who comes to her rescue.

But there’s a crime boss who will kill them both if he finds them.

HUNTER’S PRIDE
Hunter is a handsome rancher with a tragic past, determined to hang on to his inheritance.

Poppy is spunky young corporate lawyer ready to make her mark in the world.

But there’s a sinister plot against them both.

ANNA’S HEART
Anna is a rancher with a heartbreaking secret.

Angus is Hollywood royalty, poised to take a chance that risks his reputation and his career.

Now that they’ve found each other, can he win her heart?

Sex scenes/explicit content, Suggest age range 18+

The Redheads & Ranchers Series is by Pandora Spocks, an eGlobal Creative Publishing Signed Author.

Chapter 3: A devil transformation 

Wenzesclaus heaved a heavy sigh. Callistus eyed his friend with a discerning eye. It was amusing he enjoyed his friend in distress. They were notified by the academy to collect their textbooks, uniforms and badges. Callistus and Wenzesclaus had became best friends ever since. Wherever they went, they were together. After learning of the fate of their history, their bonds had grown closer. It was bad luck he got top marks for all of his assessments. Wenzesclaus didn't have one ounce of interest in becoming the top student. Excelled as the top student had meant that he had the responsibilities to put on a good image and reputation for the parents and guardians who will be attending the open ceremony. A public speech was such a bother.

He sighed. I should have made more mistakes on my assessment. I should have faked my capabilities. I should have pretended to be stupid. 

"Hey, Callis." Wenzesclaus had collapsed on the table once they had left the academy grounds. The pair had entered a cafe for lunch. "Why don't you take my place and represent our class?" 

Callis had sighed. "What are you talking about?" The prince had gone ahead and leafed through the food catalogue. "You're the top student. Remember, Asterisk is purely merit-based. Family background doesn't matter. It all comes to how skillful you are. And you have perfectly proven that your skills certainly had surpassed mine. So hang in there, Mr Top-Student." Callis had a mischievous grin on his face.

"Bastard…" Wenzesclaus eyed Callistus. "You're just getting revenge for snatching your top seat, didn't you?" 

"Well, I wonder what you're talking about." Callistus had pretended he knew nothing of it. He had turned to the waitress, and had ordered his food with a satisfying look. "Lunch Set A, please. What would you like, Zes? Or are you going on a diet?" The prince had teased. Wenzesclaus had blushed, turning crimson red from embarrassment.

"No, I'm no!" Wenzesclaus had scowled. "Lunch Set B, please." He placed his own order after Callistus. The waitress had chuckled at their childish bantering, had left with their orders. "Geez, Callis. You're the esteemed prince of this land." Wenzesclaus had sighed after the waitress had left. The prince had smirked. Wenzesclaus, The nation would weep. Their crowned prince had such an appalling personality. 

After their lunch, the pair had ventured into the palatial library. Wenzesclaus was curious, had tried picturing through the descriptions and feelings the esteemed elders had felt on that fated day. It was such a mysterious puzzle. Why would a demon intrude into Seinhart? The demon did nothing. He did not try to conquer, monopolize nor sovereign the peaceful land of Seinhart. He came all to kidnap two children. Something didn't feel right. Prince Callistus had agreed.

Something was not right.

The opening ceremony commencement of Asterisk Academy had signalled a fresh start of the trimester. Students from various backgrounds were gathered in the grand, capacious hall of Asterisk Academy. The nobles and aristocrats were lined in the first row. Wenzesclaus was also seated at the first row, to his surprise. His questions were answered when the Principal of Asterisk Academy had come on stage with the esteemed His Majesty, King of Seinhart Empire, Raphael Arnold Seinhart. Wenzesclaus was frozen stiff. Callistus had laughed and chuckled to himself. Wenzesclaus had sighed, eyeing the laughing prince.

"Bastard… you must have knew, didn't you?" Wenzesclaus had whispered. 

Vincent gritted his teeth, harbored great hostility against Wenzesclaus. His hostility had increased tremendously as he saw Wenzesclaus was seated in the front rows, along with the aristocrat families. He had picked the wrong person. The faces of pale expressions when Wenzesclaus was invited on stage. Seraphinus and Alexia were dumbfounded. Wenzesclaus was a descendant of the supreme oracle, the sole successor of an ancient noble family. Vincent was filled with extreme jealousy and envy. The audience were moved by Wenzesclaus's touching speech, was welcomed with open arms. Mervyn and Sassha, were also invited to the grand ceremony, were proud of their son's accomplishments. 

It was time Wenzesclaus had to face the fate of destiny. The clogs which had begun will never turn back. 

The grand ceremony soon came to an end. Students and parents filed out through the exit. Students headed to the classrooms assigned to them based on their assessments. Vincent had reluctantly headed for Class-A, his glare was willed with belligerent intent. Wenzesclaus and Callistus entered the classroom for their first lesson. Wenzesclaus and Callistus had glanced around and stared at their peers who would be their classmates for the term. 

" Oh! Prince Callistus, Wenzesclaus!" Alexis's expression lit when she saw the appearance of familiar figures striding into the capacious classroom. The classroom was classic; a blackboard, a teacher's desk, big windows and long desks. Although the hall was spacious, only a limited number of students was admitted into Class-S. There were only a sad number of students. Wenzesclaus glanced around and had done a quick count. 

"Eight…" Wenzesclaus was speechless. It was peculiar. The lower levels class were filled with hundreds of students, but their class barely filled the front rows of the classroom. The bell soon chimed, and their homeroom teacher had walked in. He was a man with a muscular build. The outline of his ripped muscles could be seen even from the jersey he wore. Their homeroom teacher had short black hair, his coat was donned over his distasteful jersey. His gray coat had orange rims, which signified he was an instructor for the magi department. 

The professor had taken a quick glance and settled himself comfortably at the teacher's desk. He had stared intently at Wenzesclaus, the one who had pulled full marks on Asterisk's assessments. Wenzesclaus was the first since the establishment of Asterisk Academy over a hundred years ago. Wenzesclaus had effortlessly broken the world's record. 

Wenzesclaus had blinked. The instructor tore his eyes from staring at Wenzesclaus. "Good morning, class. Congratulations on being admitted into Class-S. In this class, all of you are expected to be independent on your studies. Your instructors are here to oversee your progress. I am the instructor in charge of all you lot. Although the years I have been instructing Class-S, the measly numbers of students here had never failed to leave me stupefied. Seems like we have a genius with us this year." The instructor glanced at Wenzesclaus. Wenzesclaus was perplexed. His presence was below nil. Not many people could have detected his very existence on the first glance. Was this what a Class-S instructor is capable of? "My name is Abraham Frost." 

Unlike Class-E to Class A, Class-S has the absolute freedom of research material of their choice.  After self-introductory and curriculum briefing, Class-S had been dismissed for the day. Students in Class E till A had classic lessons till evening. Wenzesclaus and Callistus had decided to stop by the research materials centre. The research materials centre was connected to the library and the research labs. There was still much they did not know about devils. Wenzesclaus had checked out books from the library.  Wenzesclaus and his peers then decided to have a celebratory lunch since it was the first day of their school admission. Seraphinus and Alexia had suggested to try out the new sweets cafe which had just opened around the corner. Without much choices, the group had decided to give the new sweet cafe a try.

Wenzesclaus had glanced around his peers. With the exception of the prince, they had observed and stared at him. Wenzesclaus could barely remember their names during the homeroom that morning. Everyone's name was long and complicated, which he was weak at it. Two of his peers were Callistus's escorts. Wenzesclaus had burst into laughter. 

"Hahahahaha! You have escorts at this age, Callis?"

"Have anyone decided which research society to enter?" Alexia questioned, taking a small spoon of her strawberry yoghurt parfait. Seraphinus had ordered herself a mango parfait. The males had just ordered tea. The confectionery were too sweet to their liking. 

"Research society?" Wenzesclaus had blinked. He could finally experience the ache in his abdomen from laughing too much. Taking a break, he joined Alexis conversation. "What's that?" Wenzesclaus was practically clueless when it comes to society rules of their nation. Surrounded by natural resources of mother nature during his childhood days, it was the first time he had seen such a huge crowd of people when he entered the capital of Seinhart. 

Seraphinus's shyly nodded. "There are a few research societies." Her timid voice spoke daintily. She took out posters from her bag. "I was given these during the ceremony." She showed the group the posters she had gotten from the seniors promoting their research societies at the walkway leading to the grand hall where the opening ceremony was held. The peers glanced at the posters, curiosity had piqued their interests. There were various research societies where magic was used for the benefit of the society.

There was even a research society named 'Body Enhancement Research'. Wenzesclaus had turned to stone. It sounded so wrong in so many ways. Callistus's escorts were twin brothers. The elder twin was gleaming with passion. "However, I cannot do as I please without His Highness approval. I won't be indulgent. My job is to ensure His Highness safety. This is the reason why we're chosen as His Highness's escorts." 

Callistus sighed. "Kousuke, Haruki. Just do whatever pleases you. You don't need my approval, nor you have to follow me around everywhere." Callistus had told his escorts with a straight face. Wenzesclaus knew he just didn't like being followed around like a king. Wenzesclaus sighed. That was his intention all along. 

Both twins were from the Salvador Family. They were a noble knight family which they vowed to protect the royal family with their lives. The successors of the Salvador families were extreme powerful, their martial arts could put the military commanders to shame. The twins were sons of the Fifth Salvador Master, Albrecht Salvador. His sons, Kousuke Romaeus Salvador and Haruki Erik Salvador were his proud children of the Salvador family. After all, his sons inherited his strong appearance and traits. The twins although were thin, they possess the lithe figure of knights, like their mother, were competent and well-versed in miracle arts, also known as magic.

Magic was once known as arts of miracle, which is not achieved by many, leading people to believe that magic could only be performed by selected people chosen by the heavens. It is a miraculous feat, a gift from the heavens. Magi were capable of conjuring things out of nothing; transforming things into nothingness. A feat which many could only dream of. But the existence of magi had made humans' dreams come true. It began with foresight and predicting of the future. The origins of magic does not have an assault nature. Individuals who were born magical talent were sensitive to spiritual and supernatural essence. The discovery of virtual imagery and chanting had opened the gates to the unlimited possibilities of magic. 

"What should we do?" There are too many for me to decide~" Alexis had groaned.   

"Who knows." Wenzesclaus shrugged. He picked up a few of the posters and studied them. Wenzesclaus then felt a tingling feeling behind his neck. He turned and saw Vincent was standing outside the window. Fireball magic was activated in his hands, had aimed towards his direction. Wenzsclaus had dropped the papers and raced to the front of the doors.

"Everyone, duck!" Wenzesclaus had casted a huge barrier. He had charged to the front, standing in front of the threat, his peers were behind him. The customers and the staff of the cafe had panicked. Some tried to escape, were badly injured by the fireball spell Vincent had casted. The casualty was huge. Callistus had ordered Seraphinus to heal the injured, and casted another barrier over them. He had warned them not to do anything rash and heeded his instructions. 

"Do you think he's conscious of his own actions?" Wenzesclaus turned and asked Callistus. Callistus had shook his head.
"I don't think so, Zes." His reply was short. 

Callistus gritted his calcium-nurtured teeth. What should I do? Callis, think! You're the prince! It's your duty to protect these people of your nation! He turned around, was wide-eyed with shock. The weak-presence Wenzesclaus had easily deflected Vincent's fireball with a single hand. In fact, it was Vincent who had a hard time assaulting Wenzesclaus. Callistus sighed. You can do everything, don't you? His treasured friend must have decided it was the only casualty they would be willing to compromise.  Wenzesclaus dispelled his barrier, glared at Vincent.

"Wake up, Vincent! Do you know what you're doing?!" Wenzesclaus had yelled. His efforts were in vain. Vincent's ravings were defined as 'balderdash'. It was as if Vincent had been possessed, chanting words he had never spoken or knew he could. It was a marlakey of the society. He'd be shamed, a son of a prestigious noble family was defamed in the eyes of the people. Wenzesclaus however, frowned. He felt a tingling feelings from the litany baloney of words Vincent had spoken. Wenzesclaus could sense it. Vincent was unconscious. He was possessed by someone, something which possessed ominous powers. 

Wenzesclaus had transformed the magic barrier into an attack spell. His golden staff had materialized, and appeared in his delicate hands. His ice spell conjured was intent on slowing Vincent, however had hurt and damaged Vincent tremendously. Wenzesclaus had blinked. His eyes had turned red, his ears were pointy, had long, thin fingernails. Wenzesclaus frowned. It was bizarre. These were classic features of a resident from the Servius Empire. In other words, a spirit of the Servius empire. Vincent had transformed into one of those beings in front of his very eyes. He couldn't believe it. There were no recordings that humans could transform into spirits. However, it was also strange that such a weak spell had caused such a huge damage on a mythical being. These mythical beings were said to possess enhanced strength, durability, sight and prowess. 

Wenzesclaus realized the dire emergence of the current situation. He had made a wage that Callistus had realized it too. He trusted Callistus to protect the rest. His staff touched the grounds, making ripples of the spiritual power which was outspread like a thin layer. Callistus cold feel the immense colossal of spiritual strength he had gathered. Wenzesclaus's clear teal blue irises had a sharp gaze. He had struck the grounds at Vincent's feet with his golden staff.

"Sleep, Vincent." He commanded. He had made use of the oxygen and water particles in the air, was glaciated  Vincent in a cage of ice. Callistus felt Wenzesclaus was impressive. He was like a gift from the heavens. His skills were levels too advanced to be revered a magi at the young age of seventeen. He was astounded at Wenzesclaus's display of accuracy to even pinpoint at a rampaging Vincent. He was like a messenger from the heavens. His existence was vowed to kept confidential from the world.

He was just a freshman student at Asterisk Academy, was what the world knows about the young man named Wenzesclaus Marquis Fernandez.

"Is it over?" Alexis had spoke, stretching her neck nearer towards the unconscious Vincent. Wenzesclaus nodded. Callistus had summoned the royal commander, had entrusted the case to the man who played a vital role in keeping the empire safe. The royal guards were extremely perplexed by Wenzesclaus's skill, many had witnessed how effortlessly he had taken down a rampaging devil. There were still many things humans did not know about devils, nor the mysterious land of Servius Empire. People who step into the lands of Servius do not return. It was regarded as the forbidden lands by the people of Seinhart Empire. 

Wenzesclaus and Callistus had said goodbyes to their classmates after the incident was safely over. Wenzesclaus had sighed on their way home.They were exhausted. It was a day filled with incidents one after another. After all, he possesses the rare capabilities no man had ever seen. He and the people who were present during the fight were questioned over and over again. Even Prince Callistus was no different. Such an obscene sight was revealed in front of their eyes. A clue to what had happened between the pair had finally appeared. They had almost lost hope when they had found the library had possessed research information on devils and Servius empire close to nil. This incident had brought hope to them. A new clue. It was the beginning of a tremendous storm. 

In a land far, far away, a man who had been observing the entire incident through the crystal ball. He was located miles away from Seinhart empire. He had vermillion scarlet red hair, long, black nails, pointed fangs and ears. He had the most graceful and elegant appearance man had ever seen. Women often had fallen prey, were entranced by his alluring appearance, had met their demise at the hands of the notorious devil. With just one glance, his servants had smirked. It was a contrivance which humans were easily capacitated, had danced merrily to their tune. Humans were amusing, had achieved the conditions they required, was fit of becoming a devil's pastime. After all, it was their master who was the sole mastermind behind the strings of incidents which had ad nauseum occured on the lands of Seinhart empire. The cases of demi-devils transformation had been reported had increased since then.  He had enjoyed observing Wenzesclaus being summoned by the royal commander in assisting the police in subjugating the threats of devils.  

The devil had smirked. "Do you like my present, Zes?"

It's not yet the time yet. Suffer more, struggle more, my dear Zes. Our time is etched upon the clock. By the time you realize its true intentions, you are mine to have. 

You are mine, Zes.      

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           

     



 

   

A boy at the age of 17, returned to the city upon his grandparents' wishes. He entered Seinhart Empire's most elite academy, his pale existence had brought the attention of many. Along with the crowned prince, they were invincible. The Master of Servius Empire was the sworn nemesis of Seinhart Empire. Over a housand years they had waged war against each other, soldiers and warriors who had departed from Seinhart to protect their homeland never returned. The reappearance of the Master who ruled Servius Empire had made him stand on the front-lines once again. The young man's name was Wenzesclaus. The sole legacy of the past hero, Mikhail Fernandez. 

The Master of the spirits said: "I have come to fulfill our promise. You will return to me. You are mine."

Almost everyone who saw them guessed their identities. Although many of them wanted to get their autographs, they were stopped by others before they could get close.
Therefore, everyone was very tacitly not to disturb them.
Some quietly followed behind, watching their idols and their families play in the amusement park. Some watched for a while and then continued with their plans.
Of course, everyone's unanimous action was to post on Weibo to tell everyone that I met the male goddess and their little male goddess family in the amusement park in s city.
Very soon, a group of fans found this Weibo Post and forwarded it to ask the person who posted it: Where is it? Now? I want to come right away!
There were also people who said regretfully, "Oh my God, I was still here yesterday. Ahhhh, just one more day! What a pity! "
There were also people who said regretfully, "it's a pity that I'm not in s city ahhhh! ! ! ! "
Of course, the po-owner also said a "key point" : "I never thought that Li Yan's son looked exactly like Xi Wan's son. I couldn't tell the difference. After all, I know Xi Wan and Li Zhansheng's two sons and one daughter, so I almost thought that these children were not Xi Wan and Li Zhansheng's. Of course, one of them did not belong to Xi Wan and Li Zhan. Hahahaha. He really looks exactly like the two sons of Xi Wan's family. Of course, after careful observation, it seems that the son of Li Yan's family is, uh, a little shorter than Xi Wan's. After all, he is one year younger. MM, and a little fatter. On this point, he is like our favorite Eunuch Li! Hahahahaha, but he looks so cute. I never thought that I would see a miniature version of Li Zhan in my lifetime!"
Thus, there were people saying, "Hahahahaha, he looks so much like Li Zhan, Hahahahaha! "! ! ! ! Gu Cheng's psychological trauma must be very large! No wonder President Gu's Weibo was either the wife of Po or the back of Po's daughter. His son never showed up. So that was the reason! "President Gu is really a scheming boy! "
". "
"Hahahahaha, I feel like the truth upstairs! Hahahaha! It must be so, that's why we haven't seen little GU XUAN's back! But I really envy those who can see them. "
Thus, the new headlines were once again occupied by the Li family.
The other celebrities who were finally ready to announce something big today cried and fainted in the toilet once again.
Fu Fu
The few people who were enjoying themselves at the moment had no idea that they were just casually visiting an amusement park to go to the Weibo headlines.
Li Yan was by Gu Cheng's side, buying all kinds of things, eating all kinds of food, taking all kinds of photos and photos, and then posting them to her moments.
Li Yan's little princess: ★★★★★★★★★ with big brother and big sister-in-law, taking our sons and daughters out to tour the amusement park without being discovered, we who are good at disguises. [ picture ][ picture ][ picture ][ picture ][ picture ][ picture ][ picture ][ picture ][ picture ][ picture ][ picture ][ picture ][ picture ]
Then, not long after, Li Yan received a large number of messages from her friends.
Gu Ye: Hehe. If you have such confidence, why don't you read your lines properly? We are going to enter the group soon, understand? Enter the group!
Chubby Gu's mother: sister-in-law, are you sure? ?
Xiao Cong: where did you get your confidence from?
Mother: I saw you guys on Weibo trending. How did I give birth to such a stupid daughter like you.
SISTER A: eat less, eat less, eat less! You're very fat, very fat, very fat!
Therefore, Li Yan casually scrolled through her moments and almost fainted.
Goodbye manually.
This world was filled with malice towards her.
Thus, the injured Li Yan immediately went to Gu Cheng to comfort him.
Thus, other than replying to his mother-in-law, "mom, don't talk about Xiao Yan like that" , Gu Cheng basically replied, "Hehe, is that so? "
Then, Gu ye immediately replied to Gu Cheng, "brother, I'm joking. You guys continue to play. It will still take some time for you guys to join the group. During this time, even if you guys give me a nephew or niece, I don't have any objections. "
Fu Fu
After bringing the children to many scenic spots in s city and eating many classic snacks, they were finally satisfied and returned to their jobs.
Just as they returned to their jobs, there were already a bunch of jobs and movie invitations.
At that time, Li Yan was holding a cup of milk tea in her hand and drinking it leisurely.
Sister a sat in front of her.
Sister a was a very capable manager of Heaven's shadow. At that time, she was helping Li Yan pick out a lot of scripts and placed them in front of Li Yan. Then, she realized that Li Yan did not seem to have read any of the scripts that she placed in front of Li Yan.
Sister a was instantly enraged. "You're still drinking and drinking. Do you know how high the calories are? Do you know that two hours of running on a treadmill isn't enough for YOU TO DIGEST! Do you know that your weight is now over 110 again? ! This isn't the time for you to be pregnant. Is it really okay for you to be so fat? Look at our circle. Which female celebrity is as fat as you? Do you not want to be on camera anymore? ! Didn't you say that you wanted to go for a Grand Slam? Why are you so defenseless?"
Li Yan:"..."
Sister a went crazy again? But, she was only 109 pounds. She was 1.68 meters tall and had a c * * * . She was only 109 pounds, how did she gain weight? !
Sister a glanced at her.
Li Yan quietly put down the hot drink in her hand and picked up a script.
Sister a touched her forehead, feeling helpless.
"This is what I just said. It's not suitable. The one on the right is the one I chose again. "
Li Yan:"..."
Alright, choose one from the right.
Sister a sighed, "Sigh, Xiao Yan, you're the most talented artist I've ever brought up. Even if you're actually the eldest daughter of the company and a little boss, I'm actually your subordinate. Logically speaking, I should be trembling with fear towards you, so how could I have any more requests. "But in my heart, you're the only artist who has a very high chance of fulfilling my wish. You know, my wish is to bring out a Grand Slam Best Actress in my lifetime, so I can't help but be a little strict with you. "But you should know that I'm actually doing this for your own good, because I also know that your dream is actually to become an artiste like your mother who can be famous in the history of movies, right? "
Li Yan nodded her head in embarrassment.
Sister a continued, "but seeing that Xi Wan is about to succeed, and you seem to be getting further and further away from her... In my opinion, you're not inferior to her at all. "
Li Yan:"... Cough Cough, I feel that the gap between us is still a little far."
"Of course it's still far away now! "
Li Yan:"..."
"But it was once not far. Give me some motivation! " Sister a really hated herself for failing to live up to her expectations.

REVENGE IN THE ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRY!
COPYWRITER: In her previous life, she was a grand slam best actress, but she was tortured to death by her best friend. Before she died, she was unwilling to accept it. Fortunately, the heavens were hanging down on her, and she was possessed by a fourth-year media girl. Therefore, with hatred, she started from the bottom step by step, and climbed to the top again. She was proud and outstanding!
About Love: In her previous life, she was moved by Jin Zhu, and she died a miserable death.
In this life, meeting him was both her life and career. He was both her benefactor and her benefactor. She was unmoved and unmoved. She stuck to her original heart. In the end, it made him angry: Jiang Xiwan, do you have a heart or not He thought that he would leave her, but unexpectedly, he doted on her even more. He even racked his brains to create a "human life" ... ...
In the world of mortals, it was a touch of brilliance. Believe it, it was there. If you don't believe it, it was also there.
Group number: 486914513. Welcome to the group to play.



CHAPTER 23 

 

 A PLACE IN THE TAIGA 

 

 

 

 

 

They were flying to the town called Makkovik on the Labrador Peninsula, where they had to meet the remaining member of the expedition. When arriving at the small airport the travelers got down of the plane without any delay or requirements. The few other passengers who accompanied them on the plane had relatives waiting for them, so the airport was soon empty. Lucas, anxious as usual asked Ingo. 

“Who is coming in to meet us?” 

“His name is Chuck O'Brien. I never met him personally but he is one of the members of our fellowship of researchers Bluthund, which you already know. He lives here, he's a cartographer and works for an agency of the Canadian government. Ah! That must be our man.” 

A big man dressed in a bulky polar jacket and a balaclava on his head had entered the airport lobby. As there was no one else he went straight toward them. 

“Ingo?” 

“Yes.Chuck?” 

After the introductions Chuck drove them home, where there were a couple of empty rooms where the travelers would spend the night. Since they received very few people from the outside world Chuck's wife wanted to entertain them as guests in order to expand her world of relationships and experiences and that of their children. Chuck explained that he was an American born in Montana and had been hired by the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador as soon as he graduated as a cartographer and lived in Makkovik since then. 

 Yvonne, Chuck's wife, like almost all the 400 villagers was a descendant of Norwegian and Inuit so she had a very beautiful and exotic face. The two children of the couple exhibited very similar traits to those of their mother´s. After having dinner together the children went to bed and the adults continued chatting. 

“Chuck says that you have recently been a father.” Said Yvonne addressing Ingo. 

“ Yes, a couple of months ago. Lakshmi, my wife would have liked to be in this trip but that's not possible. She is a person very well prepared for all kinds of adventures.” 

"If you told this couple the situations we've been through in the last two years they would be frightened." Thought Nancy. 

“Can we review the data we have in order to try to narrow the search area as much as possible?” Asked Chuck. 

The three men left the dining room and turned on a large map spread out on a table in the living room. Meanwhile Nancy talked with Yvonne telling her experiences of daily life in Buenos Aires, a place that sounded to the latter wrapped in exoticism. 

“We're just in time to move in my pickup truck.” Explained Chuck. “Within less than a month you can only travel through these places in snowmobiles. Now we should go to sleep to start the morning with energy. On the trip we will have a chance to talk about all the topics that are of interest to you.” 

The next day they left the house at the seven o'clock in the midst of total darkness, which was gradually leading to dawn. Yvonne greeted the travelers and bid farewell to her husband. 

“The place I have in mind is about forty miles to the southeast, along the sea shore.” Said Chuck. “No people live there. It is a desolate place only visited by seabirds.” 

 They arrived in a little over an hour. Standing at the foot of a fjord the men tried to orient themselves using the few references of the runic inscriptions. Hours passed without results and Nancy thought the task was equivalent to the classic finding a needle in a haystack. They lunched late and sat down to rest inside the vehicle, a spacious van where Chuck usually carried his professional equipment and had now vacated to carry passengers. Nancy walked towards a mound and Ingo looked questioningly at her husband. 

“Technical stop.” Lucas whispered quietly and stretched into the seat as much as possible. Then a sharp cry was heard coming from the spot where the woman had gone. 

“Oh no! Is it a bear?” Exclaimed Chuck taking a rifle while the three men rushed to the site. Lucas obviously out of desperation was the first to reach obviously out of desperation, and immediately turned to face the other two men with outstretched palms. 

“No problem guys, I´ll handle it.”Said reassuringly. 

Nancy had fallen into a depression that was masked by the snow and lay at the bottom of it stuck by her own body and some fallen stones. Lucas laboriously descended into the well, took her arm and began to pull her up. 

“Now you're experiencing how I feel with your writhing in bed recommended by Lakshmi.” He whispered. 

“Shut up and get me out of here or you die.” Roared the angry and ashamed woman. 

Finally he could take her out of her mess, then he went to the place where Ingo and Chuck were waiting and told them. 

“Please turn around facing the sea until Nancy accommodates her clothing. Well, you know…” 

Once the incident was finished and while Nancy was drinking some tea to calm her nerves, Chuck approached the well where the woman had sunk to investigate what had happened. 

“Hey Ingo! Come to see this.” He called unexpectedly. 

The well had uncovered what appeared to be an empty space about two feet deep in the soil. 

“What the hell is this? “Exclaimed Ingo. Chuck had knelt in the bottom of the well and was digging with his hands as he was leaving a big empty space in front of him. 

“Wait, I'll bring a shovel from the truck.” He said. 

 After an hour of digging there were no longer doubts. They were facing a wide opening that time and weather had covered with dirt and debris, but it was undoubtedly the entrance to something that had been a home and now looked like a mound from the outside. 

“I´m thinner and lighter. Let me go first.” Said Lucas. 

After a while he came out shaking off the dust. 

 “It's a kind of room with its ceiling supported by rotted wooden beams. It is empty, there is only rubble inside.” 

 Ingo and Chuck came in turn with precautions against landslides. On leaving they coincided with Lucas´ expression. 

“It's obvious that it´s been unoccupied for centuries, but it has been a home at some point. It reminds me of Viking houses that have been exhumed in L'Anse aux Meadows.” 

“Is there a way to date it ?” Asked Nancy. 

“Perhaps removing a splinter of wood and subjecting it to the test of Carbon 14. I do not know if it´s worthwhile.” 

“Let´s assume for a moment that this is indeed the hut in which Bjarni buried his bone inscriptions. Where should the well with the relic be?” Asked Lucas with his practical mind. 

“According to the inscriptions a few steps from the door, we do not know whether right or left.” replied Ingo. 

 “Chuck, how many shovels did you bring?” 

“Three, one for each.” 

“What are we waiting for?” 

The sun was already on its downward way but there was still enough light. The land in front of the mound was full of pits of various sizes and depths, like an anthill after a heavy rain. Nancy distributed coffee among the men with a thermos flask. 

“ Be careful where you put your foot. You can break an ankle with all these holes.” Her husband told her. 

 “No need to treat me like a child, remember I´m twenty ...” 

The sentence was interrupted by Chuck´s cry. 

 “Hey! Check this out.” The man was feverishly taking with his shovel the dust covering something that was already apparent by its outline on the floor. 

“It's a rotten fur seal that surrounds some hard object.” Exclaimed excited Ingo. 

The three men started to remove the dust first with shovels and then with their hands to avoid damaging what might be in the whole. After a while an irregular object about thirty inches long and twenty wide was perfectly delineated with a flat surface that could be guessed under the abraded skin. 

 “Hold it! Let me shoot this.” Said Ingo once he was out of the well. He went to the car and returned with a camera and a camcorder. 

“Put yourself in the scene.”He told Nancy.”He then took pictures from every angle. 

“You come in the scene now, I will takes photos including you.” Said Chuck. 

“All right. We will now proceed to bring this object out of the hole.” Commanded Ingo. “Let's shoot this part. “Nancy, do you know how to use the camcorder?” 

As she nodded he then told Chuck. “Give us a hand to get it out horizontally.” 

The three men removed the object from the well, which was about two feet deep, and laid it gently on the ground. Ingo´s excitement was growing as he realized that the object they had extracted had the shape that could be expected of a whalebone. He made a new gesture indicating to wait and returned to the van from which returned with several instruments. 

“We must do this by following a protocol to validate any findings that we may do. Nancy, you shoot this carefully.” 

Ingo took a tip of the sealskin and began to remove it carefully. 

“Yes, Yes!” He exclaimed while a blackened bone was exposed. Then he stood up, took several brushes of various sizes and began to remove the accumulated dirt on the artifact revealing clearly perceptible marks because the dirt was still in the depth of the marks allowing them to see the signs as a script black on a lighter surface. 

“It's runic writing without any doubt.” Said Ingo. “I do not want to look at them intently because I would then yield to the temptation to interpret them right now and we have other priorities.” He then took a tape recorder and put into operation. He looked at his watch and began his report. 

“ At 17:25 hours of the sixteen ... .” he moved apart as he spoke so the sounds of his colleagues would not appear in the recording. Then he approached the van and watched the GPS. 

“ ... The coordinates are ...” 

At the end of the work the tundra night had already fallen. 

“We can´t go back today. It´s too late and dark.”Said Chuck. “I´m afraid that we spend the night here.” 

 “The best place to stay in the cold night is inside the hut.” Replied Ingo. “We´ll light a fire at the entrance to radiate the heat but not the smoke. Let´s collect some wood nearby.” 

 

After dinner Icelandic pulled a bottle from his backpack. 

“Bring your glasses. Let's celebrate the finding.” 

 “What is that?” Asked Nancy. 

“Authentic Russian vodka.” 

"I will spend the night in this tiny hut with three drunken men, one of them my husband." The girl frowned as this unpleasant thought crossed her mind. 

The screams coming from the small half-buried hut thundered on the Canadian taiga breaking its millennial silence. 

 



If you love historical fiction, this novel will cut your breath from the beginning.
In the eleventh century, after leaving the misty shores of Markland a Viking drakkar is dragged to the Yucatan Peninsula where the Mayan culture flourishes. By marrying the daughter of a tribal chief, Bjarni becomes aware of a treasure hidden in the ruins of an abandoned temple. Years later he decides to return to Greenland but his ship sinks. Upon reaching land he leaves runic inscriptions referring to the Mayan treasures and to intriguing ruins of a city of white men above the Arctic Circle, site of the legendary Thule according to clairvoyants linked to Nazism. At the present time a group of researchers from a virtual society is following in his footsteps but must face a powerful group seeking to restore the Thousand Year Reich on the one hand, and looters of cultural treasures on the other. This book is part of the series “Civilizations, myths and crime”
 Vibrant thriller in its entirety.

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