Chelsy Holmes and Nathan Sharles have been next door neighbours since they were toddlers. He is best friends with her brother Max Holmes so she is stucked with seeing him everyday despite how much she hates his guts! But what happens when Chelsy starts growing up and they are past sand-building and swing rides stage? What happens when feelings arise and Chelsy is coming of age?
Will she still see Nathan as just a guy next door who annoys her or will she just realise that feelings for him are starting to surface?
Find out in this sweet tooth novel!!❤❤

WARNING: Book contains Language and Mature Sexual Content. Read at your own risk ;-)

Old Mrs. Wen, Ning Shuqia and Xia Ruya sat together in the living room for a chat.
Ning Shuqian asked concernedly, "Ruya, it's going to be your eighteenth birthday very soon. Did the Xia Family mention that they were going to hold a coming-of-age ceremony for you? Do you have any other ideas?"
Old Mrs. Wen was also suddenly reminded of the coming-of-age ceremony and asked concernedly, "The preparations for Wen Xinya's coming-of-age ceremony begun half a month ago. I almost forgot that you and Wen Xinya share the same birthday."
Xia Ruya answered, "The Xia Family has agreed to help me hold the coming-of-age ceremony and they've handed the arrangements over to Soaring Public Relations company as well."
The Xia Family had always treated her coldly and harshly. Although their opinion and stand on her scandal and virginity test report was not announced to the media, they chose to treat it with nonchalance. It was indirectly saying that they had already given up on Xia Ruya.
Now that she had become a member of the Zhishan Club, the Xia Family felt that they could use her and hence, did everything they could to get into her good books. They wanted to make it up to her and favor her by throwing a lavish banquet for her coming-of-age ceremony.
"That's great!" Old Mrs. Wen exclaimed, pleased to hear that Xia Ruya's coming-of-age ceremony was also handled by Soaring Public Relations company.
Ning Shuqian glanced at Old Mrs. Wen and said, "Mother, the Xia Family may have agreed to organize the coming-of-age ceremony for Ruya, but she's still their illegitimate daughter at the end of the day. Now that she's moved in with us, we can't just sit back and do nothing. The Xia Family is only an average one and if anything goes wrong with the banquet, the Wen Family will be embarrassed too because Ruya is our adopted daughter."
How lavish of a banquet could the Xia Family throw? When the time came, would the Xia Family or the Wen Family be in charge of inviting guests?
The Xia Family could at most invite other small and less wealthy families and Xia Ruya would only be embarrassed by then, so would the Wen Family.
Finding her words to have made sense, Old Mrs. Wen said, "You're right. It would be best to let the Xia Family organize the coming-of-age ceremony using the Wen Family's name."
Feeling extremely grateful, Xia Ruya answered, "Thank you, Grandma."
Wen Xinya had already begun preparing for her coming-of-age ceremony one month in advance, unlike Xia Ruya, who had left it to the Xia Family, thus causing a great delay in progress. She finally realized that she could not let the Xia Family handle it anymore.
The Xia Family is just a small family, how grand of a ceremony can they organize? Even if I'm a member of the Zhishan Club, that can't hide the fact that I was born to such a lowly family.
By then, there would be a stark contrast between me and Wen Xinya!
Hence, she decided to let the Wen Family intervene and help organize her coming-of-age ceremony. She was certain that she would be the star that shone the brightest on the day of her coming-of-age ceremony, especially since she was a member of the Zhishan Club. She was sure that she would be the center of attention and the subject of envy of everyone else.
Even if I'm the lowly, illicit daughter of the Xia Family,
I'm still the noble and prestigious adoptive daughter of the Wen Family!
No one is going to despise me, they're only going to be envious of me.
Ning Shuqian asked, "How is the Xia Family planning to arrange your coming-of-age ceremony? After all, you share the same birthday as Wen Xinya and any blunders or mistakes would be grave. At the end of the day, you're a member of the Zhishan Club and every move of yours is subjected to the scrutiny of the public."
As the heiress of the Wen Family and the successor of the Wen Corporation, she would definitely invite all of the elite members of the upper-class society. 
Although Xia Ruya was only the illegitimate daughter of the Xia Family and was inferior to Wen Xinya in terms of status, she was still a member of the Zhishan Club and the adoptive daughter that the Wen Family valued greatly. Lots of socialites and prestigious members of the upper-class society would definitely turn up at her coming-of-age ceremony.
Not only were the two coming-of-age ceremonies held on the same day, but the same guests were also invited as well. Everyone in the circle was well aware of the feud between Wen Xinya and Xia Ruya. Hence, the two ceremonies seemed like a battle of who was stronger. The weaker one would suffer a taint in reputation.
However, Wen Xinya was in a more advantageous situation than Xia Ruya. After all… Wen Xinya had a highly reputable maternal grandfather which gave her more clout than being a member of Zhishan Club would.
Having realized how serious the problem was, Old Mrs. Wen said, "Your Aunt Ning is right. We can't be casual about this."
Wen Xinya had always been scheming and Xia Ruya would definitely lose out.
Xia Ruya looked up and said smilingly, "Grandma, Aunt Ning, you don't have to worry. I've postponed my coming-of-age ceremony to three days after Xinya's. So, it won't be held on the same day as Xinya's."
Not only was Wen Xinya the successor of the Wen Corporation, she even had an esteemed and prestigious maternal grandfather. Xia Ruya was well aware that Wen Xinya ranked higher than her in Zhishan Club and she was far inferior to Wen Xinya in every aspect. Holding her coming-of-age ceremony on the same day would only be an embarrassment to herself. Hence, it was a right choice to lay low.
Needless to say, she wanted to hold it in a day advance, but the Xia Family objected to it because they did not wish to offend the Wen Family and Wen Xinya. She also had thought about the rest carefully… It would be more appropriate to postpone it. After all… it was common to hold birthday parties a few days after the actually birthday. Holding a party in advance was deemed to be inauspicious.
Most importantly, she wanted to see how grand Wen Xinya's coming-of-age ceremony was so that she could work on the decor of her own. She wanted to surpass Wen Xinya and make Wen Xinya feel embarrassed.
Ning Shuqian patted her hand and said, "What an obedient child. It's going to be hard on you."
Noticing the forced smile on Xia Ruya's pale face, Ning Shuqian's heart wrenched in pain. It was just a birthday party and yet, Xia Ruya had to avoid Wen Xinya. She could not help but be filled with resentment at the thought of the words that Wen Xinya had said to her that day. Even Ning Shuqian had to avoid Wen Xinya…
Wen Xinya had already driven Xia Ruya and Ning Shuqian into the corner within just three years of reuniting with the Wen Family.
Xia Ruya smiled beautifully and said, "Aunt Ning, I can celebrate my birthday any day. I don't feel aggrieved at all."
Xia Ruya's words made Old Mrs. Wen take much more pity on her. Wen Xinya's coming-of-age ceremony concerned the reputation of the Wen Family. Hence, she was in no place to intervene. She could not help but feel guilty about it and thus instructed Mother Wang to get some items from the room.


Originally born from a wealthy family, she ends up leading a vagrant life for fifteen years. However, when she is eventually found by her family, she falls into another devious plot and eventually dies tragically. 

Fifteen years after her rebirth, ravenously raging for revenge, she tears down the hypocritical mask of the foster daughter who had taken her place, and reduces her greedy stepmother and stepsister back to their original sorry states. 

To the jerk's profession of his deep love for her, she only has one thing to say, "Get the hell out of my life. The love you speak of humiliates love!" 

Regardless of the appearances of you monsters, I’ll take in it my stride with my capability, building a business dynasty of my own, sitting in the depths of my riches, bathing in the glistening limelight of the world. 

A certain rich empire's CEO: "Don't mind me. I'm just leaving my mark here to declaring my possession rights; I’ll wait patiently for you to grow up!" The queen's mighty return with commercial warfare fully within her grasp, she navigates the power struggles with skill and verve. When it comes to scheming conspiracies, all she has to say is, "Who are you again? Don’t even bother!"

Marcus (MC):
• 28 years old 
• Half shapeshifter
• Leader of Gladius Noctis (The Night Children) 
• By morning he is Eve and by night he is Marcus (Gender-Bender) 
• Marcus: Black short hair and green eyes; Eve: Shoulder-length bob and green-brown eyes.  
• Alphaeus and Marcus have a history together 

Alphaeus (MC):
• 28 years old 
• Half wendigo, half wolf 
• Leader of the resistance 
• Ex-leader of wendigos 
• His name use to be Noah, but he changed it a year ago
• Red shoulder-length hair, blue eyes; Noah: Brown curly short hair.
• Marcus and Alphaeus have a history together 

Daurius (Secondary MC):
• Royal vampire 
• Pet to Marcus 
• Unknown age (for now) 
• Neck-length black hair, green eyes, and pouty face
• (coming soon) 
 
Bishop (Secondary MC):
• Turned vampire 
• Member of Night Children 
• Unknown age 
• Completely psychotic 
• Short, straight, blond hair and heterochromia eyes. (Left is blueish-brown, right is dark brown)  
• (coming soon) 

John: 
• Royal vampire 
• Leader of the vampires 
• Loves to bother Eve 
• Blueish-black hair that is a few inches off his shoulder. Black eyes that glow grey. 
• (coming soon) 

Luther: 
• Ex-Father 
• 31 years old
• Use to be in the Council of Fathers 
• Hates Marcus/Eve 
• Short, slightly curly, brown hair and dark brown eyes. 
• Alcoholic 
• (Coming soon) 

Richard:
• Member of Gladius Noctis
• Communicator 
• Unknown age 

Ester:
• Witch
• Unknown age (coming soon) 
• Leader of the Coven 
• Married to Linda 
• (Coming soon) 

Cyrus:
• Alpha to the wolves 
• Twin brother of Lucas 
• Unknown age 
• (coming soon) 

Lucas:
• Pureblood Wolf
• Unknown age 
• Twin brother of Cyrus 
• Hates Cyrus and wants to kill him 
• Right hand man to Alphaeus 
• Neck-length white hair with black tips 
• White wolf 
• (coming soon) 

Linda:
• Pureblood witch 
• Unknown age (coming soon)
• Dwells in extremely dark magic and necromancy 
• Married to Ester 
• Right hand man of Alphaeus 
• Short brown hair and dark green eyes 
• (coming soon) 

More characters coming soon.

“Two forces that coexist against and for each other, two different stories that lead to one end. Both are seeing through each other’s eyes and the world within them. The creatures of the night that encapsulates them. To touch, gasp, and entwine themselves into a body that exists to protect. To protect from pain, the pain that comes from knowing they have to destroy the one person they ever loved. Each step heavier than the last, but this is the road they must take. To find him-as they raised war upon them. For reasons they can only understand and for every memory that warps them in warmth, they must coldly burst it aside.”

***********************

The tension between the creatures, halflings, and Night Children grow as Alphaeus takes control, wanting to put an end to the Night Children, humans, and even pureblood creatures. Causing Marcus, the leader of the Night Children, wants to start blurring as he meets with Alphaeus once again through a war Marcus is set to end. Will Alphaeus succeed in the destruction of the world or will Marcus do whatever it takes to stop him, even though the history between both of them run deep?

*********************

Disclaimer: this story follows four characters (Marcus, Alphaeus, Daurius, and Bishop)

• I messed up on my title, I’m trying to fix it.

The coming of age ceremony, a once in a lifetime experience that is especially important.  
 
According to the past rules, the Li Family’s coming of age ceremony is held along with the Fang and Chen families’, and this year was no exception.
 
This year, it was the Chen family’s turn to host the ceremony.
 
“Tian, Ke Er, in a few days, you will be adults,” Li Rou said to the couple beside her. Her beautiful face was filled with tender love.
 
“Ke Er, did you hear? We are going to be adults soon, so we can give birth to a grandson for mom to play with,” the youth said to the young girl beside him.
 
Her face instantly blushed bright red as she embarrassedly lowered her head. She was speechless.
 
“Stinking brat, you really have a wild imagination!” Li Rou gave the youth a stare and then continued saying, “A granddaughter isn’t bad either. She will be as beautiful as Ke Er in the future….”
 
When Duan Ling Tian saw his mother with a serious face, he stopped making fun of her, but once he heard the second half of what she said, he was thoroughly speechless. 
 
Could it be that it was hereditary?
 
“Did you hear that? Ninth Elder is going to hold her grandchildren soon. If you don’t lose weight after the coming of age ceremony, I’ll break your legs! With your current figure, what girl would dare to marry you?”
 
Nearby, Fifth Elder Li Ting chided little fatty, who was beside him. The latter had an innocent expression as he looked at the instigator with resentment.
 
Duan Ling Tian turned his head away, ignoring him.
 
The coming of age ceremony was held by Fresh Breeze Town’s three families once a year. The people who took part were all those youths and young girls who had recently turned sixteen… After today, Duan Ling Tian, Ke Er, and Li Xuan would be sixteen.  
 
In the Chen family’s estate, Chen family disciples were surrounding the spacious Martial Arts Practice Hall.
 
The Chen family’s, the Li family’s, and the Fang family’s Patriarchs were all standing on the high stage. They were responsible for presiding over today’s coming of age ceremony.
 
The coming of age ceremony was no more than a simple ceremony. The most important part of it was the “Friendly Battle” after the ceremony.
 
The so called Friendly Battle was a martial arts spar between the youths and young girls of Fresh Breeze Town’s three families that attended the coming of age ceremony. At the end, the top ten, top three, and top one youths would be decided. They would receive prizes that were prepared respectively by the three families.
 
“Isn’t that Duan Ling Tian?”
 
Just when over one hundred youths and young girls were gathered in the martial arts practice hall, some hawk-eyed Chen family disciples recognized one of the youths standing inside.
 
“Right, Duan Ling Tian happens to be participating in this year’s coming of age ceremony.”
 
“Looks like there isn’t any suspense in this year’s Friendly Battle; Duan Ling Tian will undoubtedly take first place!”
 
“That is certain. I’m afraid no one would even dare fight him.”
 
……
 
The Chen family disciples started discussing.
 
“He’s Duan Ling Tian?’
 
One of the Chen family disciples looked at the youth from afar and was stupefied.
 
Wasn’t this youth the one that came to their Chen family weapon store to buy materials the other day? Wasn’t he the one with a possibility of being backed by a weapon craftsman?
 
The coming of age ceremony officially started!
 
After the simple ceremony were the speeches from the three families’ Patriarchs. They were no more than some words of encouragement…
 
“So boring.”
 
Duan Ling Tian frowned. He nearly fell asleep from hearing the speeches, causing the young girl beside him to be unable to contain herself and laugh while covering her mouth.
 
The little fatty standing on the other side of Duan Ling Tian asked, in a low voice, “Boss, can I use inscriptions in the friendly battle after the coming of age ceremony?”
 
“Besides our Li Family members, using it on anyone else is up to you,” Duan Ling Tian lazily said.
 
“Boss, if it’s not the Li Family members, there’s no reason for me to use inscriptions…”
 
The little fatty was so anxious that he seemed like he was about to cry.
 
He could easily win against the youths and young girls of the Chen and Fang families, but the problem was that a few of the Li family’s elder’s children were also participating in the coming of age ceremony.
 
Towards these few people, he was not confident!
 
“Who asked you to be lazy!?”
 
Giving the little fatty a stare, Duan Ling Tian felt fairly helpless.
 
Although he concocted the Seven Treasures Body Tempering Liquid for Li Xuan,  Li Xuan had an untamed disposition. He was completely unable to calm himself down and cultivate, which was why he was still only at the fourth level of the Body Tempering stage.
 
The other elders’ children that participated in the coming of age ceremony, although they only had the Six Treasures Body Tempering Liquid, they had all stepped into the fifth level of the Body Tempering stage now.
 
“Forget it. I have no chance of getting into the top three, but I should be able to get in the top ten.”
 
 The little fatty was quickly able to accept his fate.
 
Gaining a place in the top three to him was just a matter of gaining face; he did not care about the extra prizes in the least. 
 
Finally, as the speeches of the three Patriarchs ended, the friendly battle finally officially began!
 
The youths and young girls of the three families that participated in the coming of age ceremony amounted to a total of 121 people. They were divided into two divisions with sixty groups per division. This was to carry out the first round of the elimination battles.
 
But this year’s friendly battle had Duan Ling Tian, so it was bound to different…
 
After the three families’ Patriarchs had a discussion, even though the Fang family’s Patriarch wasn’t extremely willing, he had to acknowledge Duan Ling Tian’s strength. They decided to directly award Duan Ling Tian this year’s friendly battle’s first place position!
 
The youths and young girls present had no objections to this decision.
 
What a joke! Duan Ling Tian had only just recently killed a first level Core Formation martial artist, so if he really participated in the friendly battle and they encountered Duan Ling Tian as their opponent, they would unconditionally concede.
 
Fighting with an abnormal person like Duan Ling Tian was absolutely asking to be abused!
 
Duan Ling Tian had surpassed the people of the same age in Fresh Breeze Town a long time ago.
 
“Boss, it must be so enjoyable for you. You don’t even have to fight in the arena and can directly go to the top at get first place!”
 
The little fatty, with his number 32 tag in hand, looked at Duan Ling Tian with an expression of jealousy and admiration.
 
Ignoring the little fatty, Duan Ling Tian looked towards the young girl beside him and asked, “Ke Er, what number are you?”
 
“Number 7.”
 
The young girl lightly smiled.
 
After a short while, the friendly battle began.
 
Seeing the youths and young girls throwing kicks and punches towards each other, Duan Ling Tian started to feel drowsy again.  
 
Only when it was Ke Er’s turn did he slightly regain some spirit.
 
The moment Ke Er went into the arena, she stood there gracefully.
 
Due to her elegant and refined figure with a face like an angel, she quickly drew the attention of everyone…
 
“So beautiful!”
 
“If I could marry a wife like her, I would be willing to have my life shortened by ten years.
 
“Stop daydreaming. Don’t you know your own limitations? That is Duan Ling Tian’s woman.”
 
……
 
The surrounding Chen family youths’ eyes were shining, greedily staring at the young girl in the arena.
 
“Eight level of the Body Tempering stage!”
 
On the high stage, including the Li family’s Patriarch, Li Nan Feng, all three family Patriarchs were dumbstruck as they saw through the young girl’s cultivation with a glance.
 
Ke Er’s opponent was a slightly timid youth whose cultivation was at the third level of the Body Tempering stage. The youth’s attacks were straight and normal, and after being knocked back with a casual palm strike from Ke Er, he conceded.
 
From start to finish, Ke Er never used a martial skill…
 
Of course, the main reason was that Ke Er didn’t know any martial skills.
 
It wasn’t because Duan Ling Tian was stingy; he gave her such a top ranked cultivation method like Frost God’s Sword Technique after all. He just didn’t care about other ordinary martial skills, and he didn’t want Ke Er to split her focus.
 
At this moment, one of the Chen family’s elders fixedly stared at the young girl who was walking down the arena and exclaimed, “Eight level of the Body Tempering stage!”
 
Hearing what he said, the surrounding Chen family disciples were instantly petrified!
 
This young girl who had only recently turned sixteen was an eighth level Body Tempering martial artist?
 
The entire martial arts practice hall quickly found out about the young girl’s cultivation level, and everyone who heard about it became petrified, only regaining their senses after a long time.
 
Everyone was looking towards the beautiful young girl who was embarrassedly chatting with Duan Ling Tian.
 
“She is an eighth level Body Tempering martial artist? You’re kidding, right…”
 
“It was Third Elder who said so. Do you think he would be joking?”
 
“F**k! Not only is this Duan Ling Tian himself a freak, even the people beside him are freaks!”
……
 
The friendly battle progressed like a raging fire. When dusk arrived later that day, the final result was out.
 
First, Duan Ling Tian.
 
Second, Ke Er.
 
Third, Li Sheng.
 
Fourth, Li Ke.
 
Fifth, Li Qiu.
 
Sixth, Li Xuan.
 
……
 
Out of the top ten, the first six were all Li family members!
 
The Li family’s Patriarch, Li Nan Feng, had a face full of smiles. It was not one bit unexpected to him.
 
The Chen family’s Patriarch, Chen Li, had an astonished expression. Never had he thought that there would be such a result.
 
The Fang family’s Patriarch, Fang Yi, had a gloomy expression. In the top ten, the Fang family only took one spot.
 
Next was the award ceremony.
 
For first place, Duan Ling Tian received three hundred silver coins and two Body Tempering Pills.
 
For second and third place, Ke Er and Li Sheng received two hundred silver coins and one Body Tempering Pill each.
 
The other seven people only received a hundred silver coins.
 
“Stingy, too stingy!”
 
Duan Ling Tian received the first prize which many people were jealous of, but he had an unsatisfied expression as he casually put the money in his pocket.
 
“Young Master!”
 
Meanwhile, Ke Er cutely gave her prize to Duan Ling Tian.
 
For a moment, the surrounding fiery gazes looked like they we going to burn Duan Ling Tian…
 
At a corner of the martial arts practice hall, Chen Mei Er, who was like the bright moon surrounded by stars, looked at the nearby couple while lightly biting her lips.
 
When she looked at the young girl, her clear eyes flashed with a trace of jealousy and envy.
 
As night fell, the coming of age ceremony came to an end.   
 
Both the Fang and Chen families’ Patriarchs called for an emergency meeting that night. The purpose of the meeting was naturally to discuss the performance of the Li family’s youths and young girls today.
 
Out of the top ten spots of the friendly battle, six were taken by one family.
 
In the history of Fresh Breeze Town, this was something that had never happened before!
 
When something unusual happened, there was surely something strange going on!
 
For a period of time after this, the two families started to investigate the ins and outs of the Li Family in secret.
 
But in the end, all their efforts were for naught. They did not succeed in finding out anything.
 
Li family estate, inside the audience hall.
 
Patriarch Li Nan Feng looked at the youth and young girl in front of him as he said, “Ling Tian, Ke Er, the reason I called you here today is because I have a matter to discuss with you two.”
 
“Patriarch, go ahead.”
 
Duan Ling Tian’s eyebrows raised.
 
Li Nan Feng slowly said, “With the current accomplishments of you two, there are things which I can tell you now… Actually, our Fresh Breeze Town’s Li family is only the branch family of Aurora City’s Li Clan.
 
Duan Ling Tian was slightly shocked.
 
He had heard about Aurora City and he knew that there was a Li family there.
 
He also knew that it was one of the big clans in Aurora City. Compared to Fresh Breeze Town’s Li family, they were undoubtedly a colossus.
 
But he never would have thought that Fresh Breeze Town’s Li family and Aurora City’s Li family had a relationship, nor that they were their branch family.
 
Li Nan Feng continued, “The main clan has a rule for branch family disciples: any disciples who are alchemists, weapons craftsmen, inscription masters, or are able to step into the seventh level of the Body Tempering stage before the age of eighteen are eligible to enter the main clan and make a place for themselves in the main clan.”


Earth’s top weapon specialist’s soul crossed over to an alternate world, merged with Rebirth Martial Emperor’s memories, cultivating Nine Dragons War Sovereign Technique, sweeping through all opposition with invincible might!

Able to refine medicine, capable of crafting weapons, and knows the art of inscription….

Being skilled in all professions is the way of kings! 

Yu Ang’s diligent cultivation was for himself. Even if his father, Mu Zhuoyun, had arranged a Magic Duel for him a year from now, Yu Ang genuinely did not put this matter in his heart.
“Why don’t you head over, I’ll be right there with you,” Mu He told him.
Yu Ang nodded as he walked toward the Master’s house.
After going through an artificial garden, Yu Ang stepped into an unusual little courtyard.
In a European-styled Mansion like this, having an antique tea house was extremely strange.
“Father, I don’t understand why you have arranged a boring duel for me.” Yu Ang sat down to one side as he addressed Mu Zhuoyun.
“If we were to only invite high-class people, family members, and people of your age to your Coming-of-Age Ceremony, then that would be extremely dreary. The opportunity of gathering the most important and well-known people of Bo City into a single place is quite difficult. If there is a duel during your Coming-of-Age Ceremony, then I’m sure a lot of people would have a more positive opinion of you. There are certain matters which the older generation like me just cannot interfere with; thus, you need to use your own superior strength to subdue the seniors and peers watching you; this way, you will also gain prestige. Having that will assist you greatly when you control the city later on.” Mu Zhuoyun sipped his tea as he talked about his plans.
“Then you should arrange a more suitable opponent for me,” Yu Ang replied.
“In the beginning, I also thought that having a small character like that would be a child’s play for you during your Coming-of-Age Ceremony, so I was also considering about whether I should’ve arranged for someone more appropriate. However, it doesn’t seem that way anymore. After all, it’s essentially a battle between me, Deng Kai, and Principal Zhu,” Mu Zhuoyun told him.
“What do you mean?” Yu Ang asked, confused.
“Your opponent, Mo Fan, has already grasped the second level of Fire Burst. The progress of his cultivation has exceeded everyone’s expectations. Being able to achieve this kind of result in just a short year means he’s not just some minor character. Presently, he is the most outstanding student of Tian Lan Magic High, and he has gained the attention of Deng Kai, Zhan Kong, and Principal Zhu. Now, if I wanted to pull anything on this kid, I believe the others most likely wouldn’t let me do it… This really caught me by surprise. The cultivation of the son of a driver is actually not any slower than the preeminent disciples of the ancestral families. If he was more discreet, than you wouldn’t have to know anything about the matters between Deng Kai and I,” Mu Zhuoyun explained with a cold smile.
“In that case, there might be some interesting things happening.” Yu Ang looked greatly relieved.
If a weak opponent were to appear at his Coming-of-Age Ceremony, then he wouldn’t be earning himself any prestige; instead, it would be giving this scoundrel his spotlight, as well as not being able to demonstrate strength that exceeded his peers.
The Mu Family regarded the younger generation’s Coming-of-Age ceremonies as their most important, and it could be said that the Coming-of-Age Ceremony was their grandest ceremony. If their youths were strong, then the family clan was strong; this would allow them to claim power in Bo City at an early age. Having the older generations jumping out and showing off their strength wasn’t always appropriate. If they were to have their younger generation of disciples demonstrate their overwhelming dominance to their peers, wouldn’t that be demonstrating the Mu Family’s absolute power?
Mu Ningxue was at the Imperial Capital, which was an even higher domain.
Bo City also needed an outstanding young Magician who could carry the banner, right?
Yu Ang was an excellent successor for controlling the city. Mu Zhuoyun wanted to meticulously nurture him so that he could stand at the peak of Bo City.
Whether the path of the future would be smooth would naturally depend on the beginning. Other disciples’ Coming-of-Age Ceremonies could be arranged in a small manner. However, Yu Ang’s Coming-of-Age Ceremony needed to be grand. It had to have grandeur, it had to have guests, and it had to amaze the world!
_That brat Mo Fan does indeed exceed our expectations. However, he is only a stepping stone for the growth of an elite youngster like Yu Ang!_
However, would this scheming Mu Zhuoyun tell Yu Ang that he was nurturing the young man with a large amount of resources, so that when he reached a high position and held power, he would be someone else’s stepping stone? That person would be Mu Zhuoyun’s biological daughter, Mu Ningxue!
Mu Ningxue was the most perfect successor for Mu Zhuoyun. Since Bo City was too small, his only choice was to nurture another trusted aide so he could properly control Bo City and the native lands of the family.
“Don’t worry, after the end of the Coming-of-Age Ceremony, I will open up the Underground Holy Spring of Bo City for you. You will have a week’s worth of cultivation time in there. This one week will be enough to allow your cultivation to advance by leaps and bounds; then your peers in Bo City will no longer be placed in your eyes!” Mu Zhuoyun said calmly.
“Father, is that Underground Holy Spring really that magical?” Yu Ang’s eyes glistened as he asked this.
“Of course! You know what a Stardust Magic Tool is, right? This Underground Holy Spring is equivalent to a Stardust Magic Tool that reinforces your strength countless times. It doesn’t just simply ease your fatigue, it is also a Holy Ground for the nurturing of your cultivation speed! Whether it is meditation or control, the spring is the most perfect place for it. The Underground Holy Spring isn’t something you can open at will; thus, once you enter, you will have to put your entire mind into cultivation. This is because this could possibly be the best opportunity for you to attack the Intermediate level!” Mu Zhuoyun told him.
“Int..Intermediate? Aren’t I still quite a bit far from that??” Yu Ang was a bit startled.
“If you don’t enter the Underground Holy Spring, then you would still be quite far from it. However, if you were to obtain this opportunity, then that would be different,” Mu Zhuoyun said as he stroked his mustache.
“Father, just how did this Underground Holy Spring of Bo City come to be? How can it have such an incredible effect?”
“The Underground Holy Spring has a long history, there is no need for you to know it. All you need to remember is that the Underground Holy Spring is an amazing cultivation opportunity that you only get once in your life.” Mu Zhuoyun no longer said anything else.
Yu Ang nodded several times in understanding.
Assuming that it was able to allow a person to break through the Primary level and tread upon the Intermediate level which so many yearned for, this Underground Holy Spring of Bo City was indeed extremely important!
______________
 Translator: Tofu
 Editor: RED
  *[Long Taos]: side characters in Chinese operas who perform acrobatics and fight scenes
  *[12.47 to 13.07]: don't ask me about the tree sap


He woke up in a familiar world that had vastly changed.

His familiar school had become a mystical school that teaches magic, encouraging everyone to become a mighty magician.

Outside the city, many wandering magical beasts and monsters attacked and preyed on humans.

His world of advanced science changed into one that praised magic. Despite this, his ambition in life, and his social status remained the same; one of the dregs of the society with a struggling father and a disabled step sister that couldn’t walk.

However, Mo Fan found that when most people could only practice a single major element of magic, he was a Versatile Mage!

The secretary said, "It's almost ready. The land is already suitably formed. Hence, there is almost no cost for that. As for the construction, if we were to build it based on the highest industry standards, that would cost about five million. All the best furnishings and equipment will add up to about one million. If we add in all the other miscellaneous spendings, the accounts department estimates that the total cost should not exceed twenty million. This amount of investment is comparable to prestigious high schools within the city. The thing is, we are still not sure what levels our school will cater to. If it's catered for junior high to university, the projected cost will be higher."
Hong Weiguo said without hesitation, "Let it be higher, then. Let's work on an estimate of thirty million first. Make it from primary school to university. Wait!" Hong Weiguo's eyes suddenly lit up. "This little rascal unwittingly paved a road for me!"
The secretary was momentarily shocked. "Ah?"
Hong Weiguo laughed. "In the future, when our company requires a certain kind of talent, we will simply start a faculty of such a subject in the school! Internet programmer, animator, web developer, data center… anything we need! The effect might not be immediate, but in the long run, this school has the potential to be one of the core facilities of Sangle!"
The secretary gaped. "I will never try to outsmart Young Master Dali again."
…
Within Tianjing City.
A man who looked like a boss asked his butler, "The superprodigal son of the Hong Family is holding a coming of age ceremony?"
The butler respectfully handed the invitation over. "Yes, Old Master. They have already sent the invitation card."
"Yes, let me take a look. May 28th, in the evening, on the Changjiang Gold cruise ship? Isn't this ship a bit small? Whatever. Anyway, I have to go to Beijing shore. I will just take it as a two days holiday. The location is…" The boss took a quick glance at the invite and was confused. After taking a closer look, his eyes widened in surprise. "The location is at Fengyuan Lake?! The Fengyuan Lake at Tianjing City West Fourth Loop?!" 
…
"Did you hear about it? The Hongs have really outdone themselves this time. They actually transported the entire cruise ship to Fengyuan Lake for their superprodigal son Hong Dali's coming of age ceremony. That ship weighs tens of thousands of tonnes. I wonder how he did it!"
"How would I not know such big news. I heard that the transportation fees alone cost tens of millions. And that's only because Fengyuan Lake is linked to one of the big rivers used for transportation in Tianjing City. Otherwise, it would cost more."
"This prodigal son Hong Dali, Hong Weiguo is actually playing along with him. Sigh, there's no way to compare!"
"You can stop thinking about it. There is really no way to compare. The way I see it, Hong Weiguo is being so generous this time because he wants to send everyone a message. He means to say that if anyone dares to even touch Hong Dali, he will protect Hong Dali by all means necessary."
"That goes without saying. Spending ten million just for transportation fees for a coming of age ceremony—any fool could tell how much Hong Weiguo dotes on Hong Dali. Sigh, Hard work can't win getting born into a good family!"
"There's no point for us being envious and jealous. We are of different levels."
…
Fengyuan Lake surroundings.
"Mummy, see, why is there such a huge ship there?"
"Don't be silly. Fengyuan Lake is not big enough for a huge ship… there's really a huge ship!!"
"Mummy, are aliens invading Earth? How did such a big ship get here?"
"I don't know, either. Maybe someone transported it over. Sigh, it's impossible for us to understand the rich…"
"Mummy, can we go up and take a look?"
"Of course not. Can't you see the people crowding around the side of the lake? No one dares to get on."
"Oh… Okay then…"
…
At the intersection of Tianjing City, West Fourth Loop and North Second Loop, Lin Chuyin's laboratory.
Lin Chuyin's voice was calm as usual as she spoke to a levitating phone in the middle of her laboratory, "Ok. Hong Dali's coming of age ceremony? Yes, I know. I will be there."
When Lin Chuyin agreed to attend Hong Dali's coming of age ceremony, her father on the other end of the phone was shocked. "Chuyin, you are really going? You don't usually attend such events?"
Lin Chuyin flatly replied before turning off the phone and continuing her research. "Hong Dali is my friend. So I will go."
…
Tianjing City, Villa by Hong Lake in the Southwest, Villa no. 16.
Hong Anbao leaned angrily on the sofa and kept yelling, "Dammit. Hong Dali is one impossibly lucky guy. His coming of age ceremony is such a large scale event. The whole Tianjing City knows that my fifth uncle spent more than ten million transporting the cruise ship to Fengyuan Lake. I wonder how they did it. I heard they mobilized ninety heavy trucks and twenty helicopters to move it. What a squanderer. He had too much money and nowhere to spend!"
Hong Anbao's father, Hong Jianye, held a glass of red wine and sat with his legs crossed. "Why do you bother thinking about it? My bigger concern is, Weiguo did this on purpose to show off to us. Hehe. Such a huge coming of age ceremony. He is telling us anyone who has any bad intentions towards Hong Dali to think twice. The family meeting is coming to him, and he is giving us a warning."
Hong Anbao disdainfully said, "Isn't it so that Hong Dali will not be at too much of an disadvantage during the family meeting? By doing that, even if Hong Dali is completely useless, no one would dare to lay a finger on him. Furthermore, either Hong Dali is really having a lucky streak or he has some real talent. Every project he dabbled in so far has earned quite a fair sum of money. It's really hard to deal with him."
Hong Jianye chuckled. "Kek, we will take appropriate measures when the situation calls for it. Even if he manages to get past this family meeting, he will just take the opportunity to squander more in the future. The sales of your Fierce Bull beverage has recovered quite a bit these two days. Although it's still unable to meet our expectations, it's likely enough to get you a position among the top three of the younger generation. I heard that those old fogies have a plan to increase the number to five during the family meeting. It seems that there are another two amongst the younger generation that proved their potential. No matter what, you just have to keep our position within the five and go for third place."
Hong Anabo nodded. "Yes, I understand. Once we get the funds from the family and expand our business, our sales figure will definitely improve further. But father, don't you think we should do something about Hong Dali? It's not a good idea to let him expand his business without interference. He has such good ideas, he will be trouble for us in the future." 
Hong Jianye sipped on his wine and said, "Haha. Don't worry. I have already thought of something and made plans. We might not do anything to Hong Dali, but we have no qualms about the people around him." 
…
The next few days were calm, and it was soon Hong Dali's birthday, May 28th.
When the dismissal bell rang, Hong Dali stretched lazily and sprung up from his seat clutching on to Quentin. "Wahahahaha! School has finally ended! It's too boring. Let's go play!" 
Ling Yi called out to him from behind. "Big Bro Dali, it's your coming of age ceremony tonight. We will all be there, hehe."
Hong Dali held on to steel bullet and ran out. "Ah, everyone is gone. Haha. I'll see you tonight, then!" 
His classmates were all envious of him. "Aye, they actually transported such a huge cruise ship for his coming of age ceremony. There's no comparing." "Yes, yes, I just had my eighteenth birthday, and all we did was reserve one floor of a restaurant. Big Bro Dali transported an entire cruise ship, the difference is huge. Sigh." "Stop sighing, comparing with him would be the death of you. Hurry home and get ready!"
And so, the group of classmates packed up and made their way home to get ready for Hong Dali's coming of age ceremony that night. All those that were invited were not from simple backgrounds. If one was not from an affluent family, it would be hard to even see what was going on inside. 
Tang Muxin was smiling and waiting for Hong Dali as he stepped out of the classroom. She went up to him and smiled as she said, "Dali, tonight is your coming of age ceremony. Do you have anything to say about it?"
Hong Dali raised his hands up high and laughed as he shouted, "Of course! Finally, I've been promoted from a small prodigal son to a big prodigal son. Yeah!"
Tang Muxin regretfully said, "I shouldn't have asked, people around are giving us weird looks now…"
Both of them stepped out of the school gates together and boarded the Soaring Angel. Hong Dali asked Xiaoyi out of habit, "Xiaoyi, are there any good news recently?"
Usually, when he asked this question, Ling Xiaoyi would promptly give him a rundown of the day's happenings. But there was no response from her today.
Just as Hong Dali was wondering what happened, driver Wang Mingyu turned around and reported to him, "Young Master Dali, it seems there was an emergency in Miss Xiaoyi's family, and she rushed off. I wanted to ask her about it, but then thought the better of it and decided to wait and see your decision."
Hong Dali frowned. "Something happened in Xiaoyi's family? What is so urgent?"
Tang Muxin said, "Sister Xiaoyi is usually so calm and collected. It must be something serious if it made her leave in such a hurry. Dali, quickly ask her about it!"
With Ling Xiaoyi handling matters for him regularly, Hong Dali had little to worry about. Now that Ling Xiaoyi's family was in trouble, as her young master, he should naturally be concerned. Hong Dali whipped out his phone decisively, located her number and dialed. "Xiaoyi, what happened? I heard something happened in your home?"
Unlike her usual demeanor, Ling Xiaoyi was clearly crying. "Young Master, help my younger brother. Please help my younger brother!" She must have encountered something bothersome. Otherwise, from her current status and relationship with Hong Dali, she would not be so flustered.
Tang Muxin pressed her ear against the phone and heard Ling Xiaoyi's cry. It made her anxious. "Sister Xiaoyi must be in some kind of trouble!"
Hong Dali quickly consoled her. "Don't cry, don't cry. Your Young Master is here. What happened?" He wanted to probe for more details but instead asked, "Where are you? I better go to you."
Ling Xiaoyi thought about it, but gritted her teeth and said, "I… I am… Young Master, I can't tell you!"


"I have to squander; otherwise, won't it be a waste of my parent's talent at earning money?" Hong Dali answers a reporter's question matter-of-factly. 

Just after the interview ends, Hong Dali opens the Great Prodigal System's interface and looks at the various good stuff displayed in it. Stroking his chin, he mumbles to himself, "I just need to squander 200 billion yuan more to exchange for the blueprint of the core technology, Engine Destruction, found in the strongest humanoid mecha weapon, Neo Granzon. Looks like I'll have to work harder!"

"I want to splurge! I want to squander!"


(Satiana's POV)
The planned attack on the Jennovia palace was successful in many ways possible. We were able to get back the Jennovian palace and push out my mother's forces, but we were unable to get her. My mother and brother have left the palace long before we were able to lay siege on them, only a handful of soldiers that were discarded by the queen were left to defend a palace with no one inside. The civil war in Jennovia has ended and I was crowned queen of Jennovia just before the empire was established.
Because I was still young and has not come of age, Duke Matias was tasked to be my guardian. He became a good teacher and advisor to me in terms of politics and governing. Jack who had promised to stay by my side until I come of age had honored his promise. With Duke Matias' suggestion, I had given Jack a title of marquis and a piece of land here in Jennovia. Not only that, but he was also appointed as my personal knight that stayed by my side.
Time passed by quickly and many happened. Regaleon and Alicia won the war against my mother and the empire was established. My title was changed from queen to grand duchess, something that has been promised with the king of Grandcrest. I have diligently learned under Duke Matias and other teachers of my duties as the grand duchess that oversees Jennovia.
I was also informed of my mother's death. I was quite sad because I was not even able to talk to her. I would have wanted to at least talk to her one last time and ask her if had she ever loved me as her daughter. I was ready to face whatever my mother would have told me, even if she tells me that she never loved me from the start. What I really wanted was closure in that chapter of my life, but I was not given the chance to do so.
It was autumn at this point in time and my coming of age was quickly approaching. On top of my duties as grand duchess, I was also busy with the preparations of my coming of age ceremony. And not only that, many letters from well known aristocratic families have been sending invitations to tea parties and such. As I know, these families have sons that are near my age hence I can see their plan on inviting me in such gatherings.
I sighed seeing a pile of documents and unopened invitations letters on top of my work desk.
"It really is tough, now that your coming of age ceremony is coming near." Duke Matias said, looking at some closed invitation letters. "These families have sons that are in your age. Hmm, they have quite high ambitions."
"I know, right?" I sighed once more.
"Our grand duchess is quite popular these days." Jack who was standing by my side had a teasing smile on his face.
"it really is quite troublesome you know." I replied to him. "They just want to introduce their sons to me, hoping that I will take them as consorts. I have no plan on making a harem you know." I said with irritation.
"Well, you father had at least three consorts. And your grandfather had seven." Duke Matias smiled teasingly. "It is common for Jennovian monarchs to have side consorts."
"I know you are teasing me uncle." I told the duke. "Grandcrest was also similar in the past, but King Regaleon had already demolished that in his reign. I also do not plan on following in my ancestors' footsteps."
"That is true." Duke Matias replied. "It will only have problems with choosing an heir in the future."
I blushed hearing the word 'heir' from the duke's mouth.
'Yes, I as a ruler I am also tasked to bore an offspring to continue my lineage.' I thought.
I took a peek at Jack, imaging what if he would be my consort. What would our children look like?
'I will be happy if our children had his red fiery hair.' I smiled.
"But it would be best to select an escort for your coming of age ceremony." Duke Matias said. "it would be wise to choose well, grand duchess. As you know, many eyes will be on you and your escort will be looked at as a potential future consort."
I sighed knowing what the duke meant by his words. The aristocratic faction has kept an eye for me for the whole time of my governance. As I am new at this, some with ill intentions can nitpick on my short comings. A rebellion or uprising is possible with a weak ruler. And so, it is a must to get a consort that has a good standing and will be able to help me in governing in the future.
"If I may, I would like to suggest my son Alfred." Duke Matias replied. "You have known him for quite some time now and I am sure you have an idea of his affection for you. He will make a good partner in the future. I can vouch for him as his father." He bowed his head solemnly, showing his sincerity.
"I know that young Lord Alfred is a good man." I replied to him awkwardly. "But… I have not thought about taking a consort. For now, I want to focus on my coming of age ceremony and get through with it without any problems. But thank you for your suggestion uncle. I will keep that in mind." I smiled.
"I understand." Duke Matias replied. "I know it is rather difficult, because it should be a mother that is tasked to make preparations for a daughter's coming of age ceremony."
I felt a prick on my chest hearing the duke words. It is true that a mother should be the one in charge of the preparations but unfortunately, I do not have one.
"Please mind your words in front of the grand duchess, Duke Matias." I heard Jack said with a chilling voice.
"Ah yes… I am sorry. It was insensitive of me." Duke Matias quickly apologized.
*KNOCK KNOCK*
There was a knock on the door of my office.
"Come in." I ordered.
The door opened and an attendant came in.
"Your grace, Duchess Leticia of Alvannia and Grand Duke Gladiolus are here and wants to meet you." The attendant said.
"Aunt and older brother?!" I was surprised.
Aunt Leticia had maintained contact with me through letters, but we were busy to have time and see each other. My brother Gladiolus on the other hand have not contacted me for since the time he left with mother. I was so happy that he was here to meet me.
"I will meet with them." I stood up and smiled happily. "Bring them to the lounge area where we take important guests." I ordered.
"Understood your grace." The attendant retreated and closed the door.
"I will finish these documents later." I said. "You can call it a day uncle."
"Then I wish you a good day ahead, your grace." Duke Matias bowed.
"Come Jack, let's go to the lounge area immediately." I said with joy.
"As you wish, your grace." Jack smiled back and he escorted me out of my office.


Book 1: The Forgotten Princess
Alicia Rosalyn Von Heist is the youngest daughter of King Edward of Alvannia. She is an illegitimate child born from a maid in the castle her father has fancied. After her mother died when she was young her father took her home and ‘adopted’ her.

Because of her low birth and illegitimacy she was neglected by her father the king and bullied by her stepmother the queen and her step-siblings.

When she was 16 years old a war broke out with the neighboring country of Grandcrest. The war lasted for two long years and the two countries have made a truce at the end. The Grandcest empire demanded a princess to be married to the young king. It is said that the king of Grandcrest specifically asked for the hand of Alicia.

Alicia was 18 years old when she was sent to Grandcrest as the fiancee of the young king who was said to be a cold blooded evil tyrant, King Regaleon of the Grandcrest empire.

Book 2: The Chosen One
Alicia Rosalyn Von Heist who was The Forgotten Princess of Alvannia, had married Regaleon Yosef Astley of Grandcrest. Her journey had made her the empress of the new Astley Empire. The imperial couple were blessed with children, one who was the child of prophecy, The Chosen One Alphonse Astley.

Alphonse was raised with strict teachings and love by his parents and family together with his twin sister Aerith and younger brother Leonhart. He had been raised with a huge burden of the prophecy to bear. His journey will start in his beloved empire and going to other countries in different continents.

Will he be able to fulfill the prophecy that was foretold or will he be like his predecessor The Almighty One who was blindsided by love and was not able to unify east and west.   

Note: Cover photo from Pinterest.

The Coming of Age Ceremony had so many separate steps and was so complicated that it could make one’s head start hurting.

Sitting below the platform, Xiao Yan watched the young man on the platform that was being led around like a doll. He couldn’t help but rub his forehead as he said to Xun Er besides him: “This Coming of Age Ceremony. It’s definitely a torture.”

Watching Xiao Yan’s sad face, Xun Er smiled while saying: “Can’t help it; these are rules that were passed down since ancient times and even Xiao shu-shu wouldn’t dare change them.”

Xiao Yan sighed as he weakly nodded his head. Right when he was about to fall asleep, his brows jumped as he sensed that someone was looking at him. Narrowing his eyes, he looked at the left of the platform.

There stood Xiao Ning, full of envy while watching Xun Er and Xiao Yan. When he saw the later look over, he quickly raised his fist, aggressively.

“Idiot.”

Lightly saying this word, Xiao Yan’s sight moved slightly to the left, to Xiao Yu who was standing beside Xiao Ning. His eyes swept boldly across her long and sexy legs until her face turned green, before he finally looked away with a cold smile.

From the side, Xun Er was smiling to herself while watching Xiao Yan’s antics, feeling a little helpless. When it came to Xiao Yu, Xiao Yan seemed to lose his usual calmness and always provoked her until she became completely mad.

Reclining on the cool wooden chair, Xiao Yan enjoyed the sweet scent of the maiden beside him, while waiting with his eyes closed.

When the Coming of Age Ceremony had progressed to about halfway, it was at last Xiao Yan’s turn.

Upon hearing a shout from the stage, everyone on the guest platform looked at Xiao Yan with either curious or suspicious eyes. For most of them, a large part of the reason as to why they were here at the Xiao Clan’s coming of age ceremony was to have a look at the youth who had caused such an uproar in Wu Tan City and to see if he was as described in the rumours.

Xiao Yan slowly opened his eyes and the stares from all around made him feel like he was a monkey in the zoo, causing him to shake his head in resignation.

With a light sigh and a passive face, Xiao Yan stepped slowly onto the platform under the gazes of everyone.

The coming of age ceremony was held by the second elder Xiao Ying. Although the second elder never gave Xiao Yan any of his sympathy, he rarely went out of his way to harass Xiao Yan. In addition, ever since the day of the preliminary exam, he had mellowed quite a bit. At least, the scorn that was previously clearly presented on his face was no longer visible on the old wrinkled face.

With a complicated expression in his eyes, Xiao Ying heaved a sigh in his heart as he looked upon this youth who had overturned the tables in his life. His face shook a little as he took the materials that were needed for the ceremony before walking towards Xiao Yan.

Looking at the second elder walking towards him, Xiao Yan remembered the previous fussy and boring ceremony and had a migraine. With a bitter smile, he closed his eyes and awaited his fate.

……

Under the eyes of everyone, Xiao Yan stood like an idiot for half an hour before the complex bureaucratic scene finally ended.

With a sigh of relief in his heart, Xiao Yan opened his eyes. Looking at the various spices surrounding his body, he rolled his eyes in gloom.

After all the complicated steps were over, the second elder wiped sweat off his brow and turned towards the black stone monument shouting: “Ceremonial Test!”

The Ceremonial Test was same as the previous month’s test which was just an preliminary test. The motive of the previous test was to let the clan’s elites be picked out, so they could take the actual coming of age ceremony on the main stage, while the rest of the 7 Duan and below clan members would only have a simpler ceremony that was somewhat shabby

The Ceremonial Test was much more accurate compared to the preliminary test since this time, the test was personally checked by the two star Dou Grandmaster, second elder of Xiao Clan. It showed how serious the Coming of Age Ceremony was taken.

TL: Dou Zhe -> Dou Master -> Dou Grandmaster

With the second elder’s shout, those who had been bored out of their minds suddenly focused as they sent their attention to the platform.

On the Guests Platform, nearly all of those sitting there also stared at the black clothed young man. The purpose for their visit today was to confirm if the young man that had stirred the entire Wu Tan City four years ago will stir Wu Tan City again.

Ignoring the burning gazes around him, Xiao Yan was calm as he walked up to the black monument.

While watching the calm Xiao Yan, the second elder’s dry hand touched the Black Monument as a strand of his Dou Qi was pushed into it to test it. Afterwards, he stepped to the side and joined everyone else in staring Xiao Yan. Even though he was present at the previous testing, he couldn’t help but wonder: Did this kid really get to 7 Duan Qi?

The shock of Xiao Yan’s performance particularly impacted this second elder and he had especially asked to be in charge of the Coming of Age Ceremony so that he could make sure that he personally test Xiao Yan!

Disregarding the second elder’s questioning gaze, Xiao Yan’s hand slowly touched the black monument….

Watching Xiao Yan touch the monument, Xiao Yu couldn’t help but furrow her brows while turning her head to whisper to Xiao Ning: “Did he really get to 7 Duan Qi?”

Because Xiao Yu had just gotten home two days ago after asking for a break from the academy, she wasn’t there to witness Xiao Yan’s preliminary testing and thus was still suspicious about his achievements.

Being asked by his sister, Xiao Ning bitterly nodded while saying: “Yeah. That guy must have ate something that helped him jump 4 Duan Qi in just one year.”

Having her question confirmed once more, Xiao Yu pushed her lips together while stomping her legs in annoyance. While angrily staring at the young man on the platform, her beautiful face showed her stubborn attitude as she thought: Without me actually seeing it, I won’t believe that that cripple has turned his situation around.

Taking a deep breath, Xiao Yu sneered while saying: “That kid must have done something last time but with second elder examining it this time, I’ll be…”

Before she could finish her thought, Xiao Yu’s face tightened as the rest of the words became stuck in her throat.

On the high wooden platform, the huge black monument shined brightly as golden words appeared on the monument: “Dou Zi Qi: 8 Duan!”


In a land where no magic is present. A land where the strong make the rules and the weak have to obey. A land filled with alluring treasures and beauty, yet also filled with unforeseen danger. Three years ago, Xiao Yan, who had shown talents none had seen in decades, suddenly lost everything. His powers, his reputation, and his promise to his mother. What sorcery has caused him to lose all of his powers? And why has his fiancee suddenly shown up? 

"Penelope!" My piano instructor yelled, "you have been playing the piano for five years now yet you still can't get a few simple notes right!" "What am I suppose to tell your mother? you do know your coming of age is right around the corner. You are supposed to play the piano at the ceremony so I can't afford to have you make any mistakes!" 

My piano instructor took her pocket watch out and stared at it before placing her gaze back on me "I need to take my leave now, go over those notes again until no mistakes are made. Am I clear?" I nodded my head before watching her exit the room 

"Phew" I sighed my piano instructor isn't one of the people who terrorised me but she can be frightening I look at the piano keys then out the window before deciding to take a little break and go to the garden. 

But before I could get a chance to leave the room a servant came in saying my mother was asking for me in her tea room, I nodded and sighed. My mother doesn't usually ask for me and when she does it usually means she is going to scold me for something pointless. 

I make my way to her tea room and knocked on the door before entering. "You called?" I say in a sarcastic tone. 

Mother raised her hand to point at a chair for me to sit down. I take my seat and raised an eyebrow. "My goodness, Penelope you have gotten so much more impolite since the last time we've had a conversation." I gave my mum a blank stare before taking some tea that has been placed in front of me and slowly sipping it. 

"I'm surprised you remember our last conversation mother, how long ago was it? Five months ago maby?" I say giving her a forced smile. My mother simply sighed before saying "I don't need your bitterness today Penelope." 

"You're here because I simply need to talk to you about your coming of age that's coming soon" My coming of age? I wondered what that got to do with anything "so?" I asked "So Penelope I need you to make some friends or at least comrades." comrades? I raise my eyebrow "why?" "Because Penelope after your coming of age you'll be eighteen and in this kingdom, it's custom to start a business of some sort after your coming of age to prevent poverty." 

My mother rolled her eyes before continuing "those rules didn't apply to nobels until my father the late king added that to the regulations and since he died such a gruesome death I can't bring myself to change that law so even your father, your sister and I had to follow that rule." 

That does explain why my sister started an art gallery. she has always been so good at art which is why when we both set eyes on a pair of shoes we both wanted she suggested that we draw those pair of shoes and the person who has a more detailed sketch of those shoes win and of course I stupidly accepted not knowing about her artistic ability and suffered a bad lost


"Whatever" I quietly sighed "I don't need you to fill me in on the details I'll find out myself" and with that, I get up and leave the room but before I exited door I saw a glimpse of a ruby red neckless on a table beside the entrance which looked kind of familiar to me but I didn't have time to examine it so I just left and decided to overlook it.

in a world where the colour of your hair defies your place in society 

how does the crimson hair princess of the vina empire survives when even her own parents are disgusted by the sights of her

The morning of when Emerald turned sixteen years old was a profound memory of her teenage years. There was commotion everywhere as the Duke and his wife made preparations for their daughter's coming of age. 
Emerald had to get up early to fit dresses, fix her hair and put on make-up for the later coming of age ceremony. It has become a tradition in the Goldivian society that a family would throw a feast called a coming of age for a daughter when she turned sixteen while a son would have their coming of age once they turned eighteen. 
Emerald followed her packed schedule for the day, almost missing meals in between as the hours of party slowly approached. It was a nerve-wracking experience because it was her first public appearance as the member of Arquillian Household. 
During the initial preparation, The Duke and his wife have decided to invite a small number of people as their intention was to make a simple and intimate experience for their daughter. It was a step forward to slowly introducing Emerald to the high society. Although not drastic as he was aware of the danger of exposing his daughter, the Duke was convinced that being cautious was always a safer end of the bargain. 
The Duke was very mindful of the enemies they had created throughout the years because of the ties they have with the Royal family. 
The Duchess carefully selected invitees for Emerald's coming of age while the Duke obligated himself to handpicked skilled individuals to make the preparations for the well awaited coming of age. 
Words of Emerald's coming of age traveled fast and finally reached the Emperor's ears. With a grander plan, Emperor Callen forcefully convinced the Duke to make it an open invitation as Emerald's coming of age  was a significant opportunity to introduce her to the high society as the future moon of Goldivia as well. Of course, even with the Duke's stubborn resistance, it was a royal command that he cannot simply excuse. 
Although hesitant, the Duke followed Emperor Callen's request to open the celebration to the broader public as many girls of Emerald's age will also be celebrating their coming of age. 
The venue quickly shifted from the Arquilie's estate to Goldivia's grand Central Palace. 
When the Emperor made the official announcement, the Arquilie's estate became flooded with gifts everyday.
***
Gifts filled five carriages each day as the day of the celebration slowly approached closer. 
Doris, the head maid of the estate, became delighted everytime a carriage pulled in front of the gates as she already expected that there would be gifts addressed to the young lady. 
"Where are we going to place this many gifts, Duchess?" 
Doris would ask as she carried out various boxes from the waiting carriage outside. The only reaction the duchess would make was a sigh as if she had grown tired of looking at the various boxes that had filled her living room. It did not take long for her to get tired of the unannounced arrival of carriages. 
The two women would take their time inspecting the gifts they would receive before they would be given to Emerald. With the words of the High Priest imprinted in their minds, it was another counter measure to ensure Emerald's safety. 
The Duchess once said, "It's an irony that the nobles who wanted to shower my daughter precious gifts, are the same nobles who were once against the Arquilian clan." 
Doris only remained silent as the Duchess examined the contents of the boxes. 
"As a daughter born of this family… I can only imagine how lonely it must be for the miss. I know that the Duke and Duchess have tried their best to protect our lady."
"... I hope she understands why we have set many limitations on her. This is a gamble to keep her with us." 
"I'm sure that the right time will come for Emerald to be free of her loneliness…" 
***
On the last day of preparation, a carriage carrying a message from the House of Felon arrived at the Arquilie's estate. 
"My lord wanted to give you these gifts for your family to enjoy. He said he is almost certain that lady Emerald would like it." 
The man brought out a huge box from the carriage. The box was wrapped neatly with yellow ribbons, pleasing to the eye. It was decorated with cute white followers, making the yellow standout even more. 
"What is it?" The Duchess asked. 
"These are harvest fruits from Marques Felon for the Lady of the House. He had said that his daughter loved it and thought that your daughter might enjoy it as well."
From what Alina knew, the Marquis and her husband were not in a close relationship. But, both men worked for the Imperial household. There were not a lot of things she knew about him as she could only speculate that he too has a daughter about the same age as Emerald. 
The young lad placed the box down after receiving permission from the Duchess to leave it. Doris quickly scooped it up and placed it inside the living room.
The women assisted each other to unwrap the heavy box and discovered fruits of mechins. A typical fruit traditionally used for friendship offerings. 
The box was filled with small mechins, they were as red as cherries, ripped and appetizing. 
***
"My lady, are you still getting ready?" 
Emerald, who has been preparing for almost three hours, was already exhausted from the craze of the coming of age ceremony. Although already tired, she still could not understand why she could not shake away the nervous feeling that bothered her ever since she woke up. She could only assume that it was due to the great pressure of appearing in the public as Lady Aquilie and the future moon of Golvidia. 
Frustrated, she sat down with defeated purpose. "I don't know, Doris. I don't like how I look right now," she said. 
The tremble of her voice was transparent as anxiety flushed inside her, covering her face as she looked away from the mirror, tired to look at herself. 
"You're too nervous, my lady… it is because the Emperor promised you that the Crown Prince will be your partner?" 
She looked up at Doris as her brows furrowed in worry. 
"I don't know what to expect, Doris…" 
Maybe that was the real reason why she was so nervous that she could not even sleep the night before. It was unsettling to imagine that this would be the first time that the Crown Prince would be seeing her in a formal setting. It was something she has been looking forward to ever since the engagement has been decided. 
"You look beautiful, my lady. What are you not satisfied about?" 
Doris, who brought some refreshments and cookies for Emerald, put down the tray and headed towards Emerald to fix some of the hair that was on her face. 
Emerald pouted because of the ingenuine comment. It's Doris… Emerald was convinced there was no way it was the truth as she always heard the same compliment from the maid time after time.
"Why are you pouting, my Lady? It's your special day. I really do think you're beautiful." 
Doris offered a satisfied smile. But, Emerald looked away and blushed. 'How can she say that?' she thought as it was somehow a little embarrassing to hear. 
"Are you worried what the Crown Prince might say?" 
Emerald stayed quiet. But, it was apparent to Doris what Emerald was feeling. After all, she has always been like an open book as her appearance always seems to express what she really feels. 
Doris walked back at the table and collected the refreshment to bring to Emerald. 
"I got you these cause I know you'll be like this. It would help you relax. Come on, have some." 
Doris put the tray down and handed Emerald the juice that the Duchess made from the fruit that Marquis Felon had sent. 
"What is it Doris? It smells really sweet."
"It's mechins, my lady. Your mother said that it would help to calm your nerves." Doris smiled again, making Emerald feel more reassured. 
Emerald took a sip of the liquid and quickly realized how flavorful it was. It was unexpectedly pleasant to the taste. It is a little thick in texture, but smooth in the throat. 
Doris noticed that Emerald seemed to like it and took a mental note to herself that she would be serving the juice to Emerald more often. 
The door opened slightly. It was the Duke, peeking to see how his daughter was doing. Just like his daughter, he was overwhelmed and nervous. 
'How can my wife be calm about this?' He thought to himself. 
"What are you doing in front of your daughter's room?"
The Duke jumped a little by surprise. It was the duchess that was behind him, who was going to check what her daughter was doing. She chuckled at the sight of her husband being surprised as if he forgot where he was. 
"Alina, don't scare me like that." 
She laughed and responded, "I'm sorry, Liam." 
*** 
The party had started, but the Crown Prince has yet to make his appearance. Emerald was left on the corner, waiting for her partner to arrive. 
"Why are you here by yourself?" 
Surprised by the voice coming behind her, Emerald took a glance at Calester with disappointment. She has been waiting for a few hours now and her legs have given up. She could only speculate that Calisto might have been caught up with his busy schedule and was running late.
Even so, after spending a few hours to calm herself down, Emerald's nervousness only continued to rise, flowing inside her as if it has unlimited resources. 
She sighed and blurred out a question, "do I look pretty today…?", feeling somewhat unsure of how she looked now as hours had passed, her neatly braided hair was already becoming undone. 
Calester approached Emerald with a few steps, but was unsatisfied as he wanted to see her in a closer distance. Determined, he walked over to her, absentmindedly invading her personal space as if there was nothing to be cautious about. 
"Hmmm.." 
Calester scratched the back of his head, pretending not to notice her adorable face. He intentionally smirked, giving no response to her insecure outcry. 
Emerald, who had grown impatient, became a little irritated as she felt provoked by Calester's unconcerned attitude. 
"Where Calisto?" He asked unknowingly. 
"He's running late… I assume." 
"But… the dance will start soon" 
For a second, Calester felt dumbfounded from Emerald's lack of excitement. He had witnessed her earlier as she cheerfully entered the premises of the Central Palace, enthusiastic to see the Crown Prince. 
"I'm worried he might not make it." 
***
With awkward silence, Calester stepped away from Emerald as he sensed watchful eyes glances at them while they were alone. 
'Caution,' he reminded himself. 
He took another step back to see if the eyes would look away. but, it did not. As the clock ticked, the distance between Emerald and Calester grew in more inches. But Calester's efforts were not enough as a knight under the Emperor's command approached him, whispering a word of command. 
"'Please refrain yourself' the Emperor said." 
Emerald, who stood there as the guard left, waited for an opportunity to ask Calester to dance with her, already expecting that there was no use in waiting for Calisto to come. 
She opened her lips to make an effort to approach Calester. With a hint of hesitation, she asked, "would you dance with me?"
Calester brows wrinkled from being shocked as he did not expect such an invitation to come from Emerald, shaking his head involuntarily. 
Again, the eyes revealed its presence, watching him from afar. Cold sweat formed in his palms, making his judgement a little blurry. 
"Sorry... I had already promised someone." 
Quickly, he left the scene, abandoning Emerald, who, at that moment, was in disbelief for having Calester simply rejected her. 
Heavy steps echoed as he fled the scene. He had to make his reasons believable at least. It took everything in him to reject her and walk away. 
Calester roamed around the dance floor as the music initiated the beginning of the dance. His mind focused solely in finding someone to dance with—"anyone will do," he thought.
A long red hair maiden caught his attention. Her hair resembled the color his mother's. Without knowing who she was, he reached his hand, grabbing her as an invitation to dance. 
The maiden quickly reacted, jumping out on reflex from the unexpected invitation. But eventually succumbing to his request as she found him quite attractive. 

Politely, he asked, "who are you?"

Finally, a female heir  is born in the house of Duke's and Knights. The ancient contract can finally be fulfilled. 
 
"Once a female heir is born in the House of Arquilie, she will be recognized as the future Empress of East. She will marry into the house of De Morgues." 

For generations, there were only men born in the House of Arquilie, serving the Royal Family, House of De Morgues,  as the empire's most powerful weapon. The contract could  not be fulfilled to unite the two strongest household as House of  Arquilie could not be blessed with a female heir. 

The emperor once said, " My son, it is your duty to marry the Future Empress as this is your condition to be Emperor." 

Now, Emerald, the first generation, female heir of House of Arquilie , was promised to marry the Crowned Prince, First Prince Calisto. Emperor Callen had given the two permission to marry when Emerald reaches the age of 18.

One day, the Emperor commanded that the Crown Prince leave the country for a mission giving his First son two years to return, postponing the marriage between the two houses. More than 2 years later,  the Emperor became ill while the Crown Prince is still away. 

"Is Calisto finally coming back? I have been waiting all this time!" 

Emerald had to ask as she was excited of the news that the marriage will finally be happening as she will be turning 20 years old. But the truth was far from her expectation as the Second Prince turns out to become her marriage partner, asking her hand for marriage. 

"I need you to be my wife.... I am asking you because you are aware of the contract between our family. You should know what it means."


CTTO photo: RIMA arts, the fallen angel.

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