Naomi FoxWell - A chief detective with a hot temper, an attitude problem and a terrible past tends to work day after day on case after case that's thrown at her. It wasn't until after several gunshot wounds, fights and arguments that she realised she may need more than just her and her best friend Conan to get by in this corrupt, overpopulated, crime ridden district. This is a story of action, adventure, romance, betrayal, heartbreak, discovery, and most of all, friendship.

The rose that grew from concrete 
Tiara Lowe has had it rough since foster care days, she eventually fell in love with one of the corner boys from her foster care house and ran away with him, wrong decisions, wrong decision.

She had to endure all types of abuse and at the bare minimum, she had to stay in a separate room when Tavane had his girls over, but one day she came up with a master plan to get away from the situation, although she was scared and hadn't been out of the country she travels for hours going to a researched destination after stealing from her ex-boyfriend.


what will happen now that she's in another country, with a stolen card and money, trying to find a better life she will meet obstacles and she will fall short or maybe in love but she would never give up and she. didn't even at the brink of death.




Started On January 15,2021

Conan Lionheart, an unstable man with a short temper finds his way around the problems the concrete jungle, Neon District, brings.

Conan Lionheart, an unstable man with a short temper finds his way around the problems the concrete jungle brings.

The host shouted, "Let's move on to the next contest! Calligraphy!"

"All participants please come up to the stage! Pick up the brush, ink, paper, and inkstone! Then get ready to write!!"

Feng Ao Xiu smiled. It has come to the third contest, at least one more win needed. But, he did not need to go to the last contest, the Second Young Master's calligraphy skill was amazing. Since he was small, other than cultivation, he practised calligraphy almost every day. In the Feng Clan, no one has neater writing than Feng Ao Xiu. The game was already in the bag. 

All the participants including Feng Ao Xiu sat down on the stage.

Kong Ling Jue stands up, "I'll be the one in charge of this contest. First, I'll give each one of you a different theme. Then, within ten breaths, you must write an original poem according to the given theme."

"The criteria to win are neat handwriting, compatibility with the theme, and a good poem."

Feng Ao Xiu smiles again, he laughed in his heart. 

[Hahaha... This will be an easy victory! Who can beat me in calligraphy? Nobody! This is a good day, I'll finally get my ha... Wait! Poem!?]

[This Second Young Master hardly knew any poem, and you want me to write one!?] 

[This is bad! This is really bad!]

As he was looking for a solution, he suddenly realized that he actually did not have to. There were three criteria. If he could ace out the neat handwriting. At least he would get one-third of the total scores. If he could think of a good poem, a score of 60 or 70 out of 100 would be possible. If he was lucky, he could even get a score of 80. 

[That's actually not that bad, I might even win!]

Then, Kong Ling Jue said, "The poem itself will take sixty per cent of the total score. The rest will take twenty per cent each!"

Feng Ao Xiu couldn't help but cursed in his heart.

[What the f*ck! Are you kidding me!? How could the poem take so many points!? Is this even a calligraphy contest!?]

The only thing left to do now was to practice. Feng Ao Xiu thought of the first poem that comes into his mind.

***

The Poem

The poem is here and there.
What poem will I hear?
I was forced to make one.
Who knows how it will end.
Because my poem is not bad.
I will not be sad.

***

Feng Ao Xiu gives himself a facepalm. It's useless! It's so ugly, that he wanted to vomit himself!

The crowd was anxiously waiting. Most of them were looking at the dark horse in this contest. What kind of legendary poem will Feng Ao Xiu's Number One Fan make?

Kong Ling Jue points at the nearest young participant, "Let's start with you! The theme is Tortoise."

The young man immediately writes his poem. He finishes right before the ten breaths.

***

Break the Tortoiseshell

Through the shell, it was blessed.
Without the light, it walks for a quest.
The strength and spirit live forever.
Leave the home and the courage gather.
The sunlight illuminates the path.
Treading without care for the aftermath.
Break the Tortoiseshell.
And believe it will be well.

***

Bu Liang said, "Nice one! I like the beginning part, but the last part is a bit lacking."

Mo Tie Yang, "Within ten breaths and you could make this kind of poem is already impressive."

The Emperor, "Yes, I agree! It is a good one. Your handwriting still needs a lot of practice though."

Princess Ming, "Qiao An likes tortoise! Big brother described it nicely!"

Kong Ling Jue nodded, "Good! However, there is a mistake, you should use the word 'cave' instead of 'home', and the word 'power' instead of 'strength', it describes the Tortoise best. This poem also lacks a bit of morality. If you write it for a long time, I'm sure it will be better!"

The young man cupped his hand, "Thank you, Master Kong Ling Jue!"

Feng Ao Xiu was confused. Is that poem really good? He doesn't understand anything good about that poem.

However, currently was not the time to analyze that poem. Feng Ao Xiu shook his head and continue with the practice. He shall use the same theme and see if it does any good.

***

The Old Tortoise

The Old Tortoise is 100 years old.
It lived a long life and the shell is cold.
Swim in the pond with aloof.
Spinning around like in its youth.
Old but still adorable and...

***

Feng Ao Xiu stopped before he even finished. There's no need to continue, just half of it was already not satisfying. He felt what he made was not a poem but a description of a turtle.

"Next!" Kong Ling Jue glanced at the next person, a vigorous old man, "The theme is Wine."

Although it's not for Feng Ao Xiu, he feels challenged. He believes he could create a nice poem.

***

Three Bottles of Wine

There are three bottles of wine.
All the tastes were fine.
I chug one down and go with the flow.
One down, two more to go!
I chug another one as if there's no tomorrow.
Two are down, one more to go!
I chug the last one but the head feels heavy.
I died and arrive in heaven...

***

Feng Ao Xiu gave up. No matter how hard he tried. In the end, it will always come up bad. He didn't understand how he created a story instead of a poem.

Meanwhile, the old man who was the participant finishes quickly, he only needed seven breaths before he stops.

***

Legendary Wine

The water flows into the river.
The cup holds a feather.
It shines in the moon, showing its fang.
Gentle like yin but strong like yang.
Accomplishment and glory.
The reigns and victory.
I shall pour it all into one.
To wait until this moment to run.
All gods and humans fancy.
Come and see!
All masters and servants envy.
Come and see!
I bring you a dine!
With this legendary wine!

***

The audience cheered! It is a beautiful poem! Who is that man!?

Kong Ling Jue, "As expected of Master Sun, I have nothing to say!"

Bu Liang, "I'm always impressed every time I saw Master Sun's masterpiece!"

The Emperor, "Master Sun is really good, your handwriting is also still full of energy!"

Princess Ming, "Qiao An likes this poem the most! It's the best!"

The audience went into frenzy mode. 

"What did they say? Master Sun! Master Sun Huang!?"

"I can't believe it! Sun Huang the master of poem and calligraphy is here!"

"No wonder that poem is so good!"

Mo Tie Yang jokes, "Master Sun, haven't you retired already? Are you here to bully these people?"

Sun Huang laughs loudly, "Hahahaa... I'm sorry, but my wife and children are watching! I have to win this contest."

This is big news! Sun Huang enters a contest and shows his skill, it has been a long time since Sun Huang creates a poem. It looks like his skill hasn't worn off yet. The poem 'Legendary Wine' will surely beat all the other poem.

Feng Ao Xiu's mouth became wide open. What the hell!? Sun Huang! What is he doing here!? How am I going to beat him without any poem skills?

Sun Huang still laughs, "The rest do not need to mind me, just continue to do your best. May the best man win!"

How could the other participants not mind? They must face the legendary master! Of course, they will lose! They lose all hope in this competition. But, look at the bright side, at least Master Sun will point their mistake with his skill. It is a golden opportunity!

The contest continued, and just like they hoped for, Sun Huang gives a precise and concrete lesson to the third participant. The rest of the participants began to write the poem more vigorously. How could they not? Get a private lesson from the legendary Master Sun is a dream come true to all the young calligraphers.

Feng Ao Xiu cursed in his heart. 

[F*ck this! All of them became so enthusiastic! I can't withdraw from this contest now!] 

Withdrawing means dishonouring Master Sun. Feng Ao Xiu could not afford that! But, If he writes his own poem, he'll be the laughing stock of the entire country.

All have got their turn except for Feng Ao Xiu's Number One Fan.

Kong Ling Jue stares intensely at Feng Ao Xiu. What will he do now? 

"Next is our favourite, Feng Ao Xiu's Number One Fan. The theme is the Moon." 

[Wait! It's my turn now!? I'm not ready!]

Feng Ao Xiu holds the brush but his hands not moving. 

[Ahh... I can't get any ideas from inside my head. Moon... Moon... What moon!?]

Three breaths have passed.

[C' mon, think! Think! Not winning is fine! As long as the poem is not stupid!]

...

That's It!

Right after the fifth breaths, Feng Ao Xiu writes vigorously. He already has all the poem in his head.

Just right before the tenth breaths, Feng Ao Xiu puts down the brush! The poem was finished!

The crowd watching anxiously. After the two previous performance, they got a great expectation from Feng Ao Xiu's Number One Fan. It may not be as great as Master Sun, but at least it will be better than the rest.

***

The Moon Princess

Your smooth soft skin.
The only one in my scene.
Your bright little smile.
The one I won't lie.
The beauty of the moon can't compare.
The shines of the moon lacks colour.
In the night, I grew restless.
For the Moon Princess.
The river flows like the cloud.
The wind plays aloud.
I wish I could express.
For the Moon Princess.
I'll descend from high above.
You are my one true love.
Hold my hands.
I swear to the heavens!
For you, nothing is too soon.
Because you are my moon.

***

"..."

Everyone's mouth opened wide. 

Yes! As expected from Feng Ao Xiu's Number One Fan. The poem was really good, it could even rival Master Sun's 'Legendary Wine'.

But, that's not the point! The thing is, he just wrote a love poem! 

For Princess Ming!!

Who else is the Moon Princess but Princess Ming!?

The Princess blushed. Her face became so red. She never felt so embarrassed before.

In a world full of cultivators, Feng Ao Xiu is a genius that only appears once every 10,000 years. His talent is the target of envy and jealousy of all the people around the world. But because of his talent that he was betrayed and died at a young age of 15 years old.

When everyone thought that the Feng Clan just lost a future supreme expert, Feng Ao Xiu slowly rise from the dead and he returned to the Clan. 

However, no one knows that Feng Ao Xiu was not a cultivator. They think he was back stronger than ever.

In a world full of cultivators, Feng Ao Xiu was an ordinary man. Can he survive?

Join him in a story full of comedy misunderstanding!

Twin Dragon Mount.
Inside the Temple of Providence that had been newly renovated by professional builders and could accommodate hundreds of people…
"Roar!"
On the top of the golden palace that was twelve meters tall, the two dragons of providence whose bodies had almost turned concrete spewed out golden brilliance on the Sonic Bow on the new altar!
Yes, the Sonic Bow!
Two of the Perfect Special offerings that were acquired from the Battlefield of Providence had been used to summon Zhao Yun and Li Yuanba. The three left were the South King's Thunder Halberd, the North King's Water Stopping Stone, and the Yuan Emperor's Sonic Bow!
While the power of thunder was intimidating and destructive, it wasn't damaging to the Magma Monsters that were made of magma. Although the Water Stopping Stone had "water" in its name, it couldn't control seawater to extinguish the fire.
Neither of them was the best choice!
The Sonic Bow, as the only weapon whose Transcendent power involved the sound, should be surprisingly effective against the Magma Monsters.
Hum!
The Sonic Bow, after being activated by the power of providence, changed the Temple of Providence into a test scene.
However, unlike the previous two times, the whole battlefield for the test was empty except for a man wearing purple armor and a crown and who was standing magnificently with the Sonic Bow!
He was exactly the Yuan emperor!
An old player who was responsible for logistics exclaimed in surprise, "Huh? He's not protected by a lot of soldiers like before?
"So to speak, won't it be a lot easier to pass this ritual test than before?"
Because the Magma Monsters' settlement hadn't been completely destroyed, most of the Twin Dragon Island's personnel were still on the battlefield.
Even the battle players among the newcomers had been sent to the battlefield to broaden their eyes!
Therefore, the number of participants in the ritual was the smallest in history. There were no more than twenty players in the Temple of Providence.
Elder Zhou, who had been helping Su Nongying with the human resources management, shook his head. "The Soul of Civilization this time is Extraordinary Rank-8. It's of a higher level than the previous times. Naturally, the odds to pass the test are higher.
"However, it's not necessarily easier than before.
"That's because the test mostly depends on the nature of the offering and the suppression of the settlement's power of providence. It doesn't have a lot to do with the Soul of Civilization's level."
Then, Elder Zhou turned around and asked Ji Ye, "Or rather, technically speaking, it was actually not a bad thing that the offering presented a lot of soldiers in previous tests.
"In those cases, the power of the offering was split, and the East King and the West King were only capable of fighting in one or two rounds.
"However, this Sonic Bow had chosen to only condense the Yuan emperor, which means that the arriving hero has to defeat him fair and square to pass the test!
"Well, I wonder if you have decided to only summon the heroes who have the same background as our settlement this time, Master?"
Ji Ye nodded. "Yes. Since it's an Extraordinary Rank-8 Soul of Civilization, I didn't choose to expand the range of summoning!"
In the Twin Dragon Mount fort's Water Margin and Han Dynasty settings, Zhao Yun was probably the only one who could've passed the test in Extraordinary Rank-7 with his special talent!
However, since the offering was Extraordinary Rank-8, a lot of heroes could pass the test.
Exactly as Ji Ye had speculated, soon after the Sonic Bow was activated, the Soul of Civilization that the Magma Monster leader dropped started changing on the empty battlefield. It turned into a man who was wearing a white scholar's long robe and a red general's robe on his back, with a vague face and a tall body!
["The great river runs eastwards. All the renowned figures in history are washed away by the tides!"]
At the same time, a loud poetic announcement echoed in the Temple of Providence!
However, it wasn't just the dull recitation like before.
It was sung out in a certain rhythm, with a piece of powerful background music played by exciting instruments.
"Huh. That poem is… 'Su Shi'?"
Su Nongying's eyes glittered.
Although it was only one sentence, the poem was very familiar to most natives of Chidragon.
Not only were they familiar with the poem, but they were familiar with the poet too.
In particular, Su Shi was special to Su Nongying, the butler of the Twin Dragon Island, because they had the same surname!
Su Shi was from the Song Dynasty, which was also the setting of Water Margin. It was possible that he could be summoned!
However, how was Su Shi related to the Sonic Bow?
An Quan, who was getting bald again, asked in confusion, "I have the same question. While Su Shi was a multi-talented genius, and he was one of the best writers, poets, calligraphers, and gourmets, I don't think he has any expertise in sound or bows, does he?"
He didn't participate in the battle against the Magma Monsters because he had been named as the manager of the SkyNet construction by Ji Ye.
He had come back to the fort to apply for certain items in the treasury when the third ritual for Transcendent heroes was held.
"How can they not be related?
"Su Shi is the Poem Master, and poems were sung in ancient times as lyrics and had many different aliases back then. Even to this day, the lyrics of a song can still be changed while the melody is kept the same.
"From that point of view, Su Shi was deeply related to music. He should be the most famous songwriter in the five thousand years of history of Chidragon."
Elder Zhou, however, opened his mouth and pointed out Su Shi's relationship with music.
"However, Su Shi must be a Legendary hero in terms of literature. I don't think he'll arrive yet."
After that, Elder Zhou denied the possibility that the hero wearing a white scholar's robe was Su Shi.
"Who can it be if not Su Shi?"
The players in the temple were slightly stunned.
"Why do you think it has to be the author of this poem that's arriving here?"
Ji Ye stared at the hero who was wearing a scholar's robe and a general's cloak on the painting, his eyes glowing like torches.
"Has it never occurred to you that it may be the person whom this poem is referring to?"
Hardly had Ji Ye finished when the poem in the temple had moved on to the next sentence.
["People say that to the west of this ancient fortress was Chibi where Mr. Zhou directed the battle in Three Kingdoms!"]
"Ah!"
"Wait a second, Master, are you saying that Zhou Yu from the Three Kingdoms will arrive this time?"
One of the core players was rather delighted.
It was truly a pleasant surprise.
Although Zhou Yu couldn't compare to Su Shi in terms of the variety of achievements, he was no less popular and famous than Su Shi on Earth thanks to the influence of the Three Kingdoms.
More importantly, Zhou Yu wasn't just a regular general. He had proposed a lot of strategies back in the Three Kingdoms.
If he could successfully arrive, it would mean that the Twin Dragon Island fort would have a top advisor!



Magic, eastern fantasy, cultivation, scientific technology…
Machines, biological creatures, energy, souls…
Different civilizations and species have entered a world that follows game-like rules.
As one of the first million people from Earth to enter this world, Ji Ye, who formerly streams his survivalist videos, obtains a Fusion Inheritance skill. Using it, he comes up with many combinations!
AI chip + Tank = Transformer!
T-X + Demonic Sovereign Ancient Sutra + Spirit Possession Fiend Art = Silver Immortal Demoness!
Divine Stone Genes + 10,000-year-old Peach + Nine Transformations Golden Pill + Pet Spirit Monkey = ?
Investiture of the Gods = The light of providence on humans + power of faith + spoils of war godhood + ? + ?
Infinite Glove = ? + ? +? + ? + ? 

I shut my alarm off.  The time was 7:00am already
Birds were singing happily on trees. The wind was blowing well. Even the sun seemed brighter which meant only one thing.
Valentine's day
A day for everyone to be happy but this isn't the case for me
Memories of Saturday rushed into my mind. Tears rolled down my cheeks at the thought of Michael.
I looked at the popular poem I designed for him on the wall
Did you hear about the rose that grew from a crack in the concrete?
Proving Nature's laws wrong it learned to walk without having feet
Funny it seems but by living its dreams it learnt to breathe fresh air
Long live the rose that grew from concrete when no one else cared!
                         ---in dedication to Michael Williams.  Rest in Peace Michael.  On Saturday 5th July heaven gained another angel ❤️
With a heavy sigh, I got up from bed and went to the bathroom.  Sluggishly, I prepared for school.
I wore a white button up shirt with black shorts and black wedges.  At least I had to look presentable
I looked at the poem one more time before I left for school.
Drew's P. O. V
I laid on my bed throwing my basketball at the wall and catching it when it bounced back.
I did it like 15 times till it didn't bounce back.
I just stared at it on the floor, too lazy to go pick it up.
I ran my hands through my hair and let out a frustrated sigh
''What is wrong with me?'' I groaned
''I might have an idea''
My foster mom, Sharon said as she leaned against my door frame.  I didn't even realize she was there
''Hey mom" I nervously chuckled "didn't see you there''
''Of course, you didn't" she replied "got your head stuck in the clouds''
I sighed
''It's not like that''
She walked into my room then sat beside me on the bed
''Aren't you going to school today?'' She questioned
I raised an eyebrow at her
''What does it look like?''
''It's Valentine's day, you know'' she sang
''More reason not to go'' I muttered
''You can't keep on avoiding her''
I scrunched up my nose in confusion
"Her?" I asked
"Yes her"
''Who?''
''Please I was a teenager too. You've been drawing pictures of a girl and murmuring Bella for the past week''
''I don't know what you're talking about'' I lied
''How would you feel if somebody took her away from you?''
I clenched my fists at the thought but I wasn't ready to admit my feelings
''She isn't even mine to begin with''
''Exactly. Then make her yours''
How?
"She's way out of my league" I mumbled
"Does it matter?"
''She doesn't feel the same mom'
''Did she say she doesn't?"
''No but''
She put her finger on my lips shutting me up
''Have you even asked her?''
I shook my head. 
No, I haven't. I kissed her and ran away. Ever since then I've been avoiding her like the fucking idiot that I am.
''Drew''
''Yeah?''
''Go get your girl before someone else does''
She gave me a pat on my leg then stood up
''Thanks mom''
''Anytime''
Bella
I opened my locker and screamed inside
''Whoa who pissed in your cheerio's?''
It was Missy, one of the girls on the cheer leading team.
I brought my head out and flipped my hair
''Hi'' I said closing my locker
''Hello to you too. What's up with you?''
''Stuff''
As we conversed Drew passed. We locked eyes for a few seconds before he looked away
Great
The bell rang meaning Missy and I had to end our discussion and get to class
''Well, I'll see you at dance practice'' I said
''Sure'' she replied before we parted ways to our different classes
******
. 
I ran to the field for dance practice. I was twenty minutes late because my geography teacher made us draw some extra stuff. Coach is so gonna kill me. I hope she spares me since this is my first time being late
I stood in my position at the back when I got to the field hoping to get away unnoticed but that didn't work.
Coach Ann was writing something on her clipboard but looked up as soon as she saw me
"Bella, you're late'' coach Ann said
''I'm sorry ma'am'' I quickly apologized
''Just get in the line''
I joined the other girls on the straight line.
Coach Ann talked about our new formation.  My eyes drifted to the bleachers
There Drew was smoking what I guessed was weed. Our eyes met
I thought about that night when we smoked weed together.
We stared at each other for a long time.  He got up, grabbed his backpack and left
It reminded me of the day we kissed, how he just grabbed his bag and left me
''Hello. Earth to Bella'' Coach Ann snapped her fingers in my face
All eyes turned to me
I blinked my eyes coming back to reality
''Yes ma'am?''
''You seem a little bit off today. Go run 7 laps round the track''
''But Coach... '' I tried to protest
''No buts. Go''
I closed my eyes and took a deep breath in.  Leslie came in looking pale.
''Arnolds you're late too. Join Bella on the track''
I ignored the glare she gave me
''Let's just get this over with'' I said rolling my eyes
''I agree''
We ran on track at the same pace
''How many laps we got?'' Leslie asked
''Seven''
''Coach's really out for us huh?''
I chuckled
Leslie stopped making me stop too
''What's wrong?" I queried
''Something's not right" she said "Why aren't you being mean to me?''
I became confused
''What are you talking about?"
''I know you saw what happened on Saturday when Eric kicked me out.  Why aren't you teasing me about it?"
''Look Leslie, its childish to tease you about something like that alright.  Its none of my business but honestly, I feel sorry for you''
With that being said, we continued jogging in silence

I partied every night.... He spent most of his life in jail

I had tons of boyfriends.... He barely spoke to anyone 

I was the center of attention... He was the boy at the back of the class

The saying really is true:  Opposites attract

 Or rather.... They clash. And when that happens, there's bound to be an explosion. 

#1 bad boy series



I shut my alarm off. The time was 7:00am already 

Birds were singing happily on trees. The wind was blowing well. Even the sun seemed brighter which meant only one thing. 

Valentine's day 

A day for everyone to be happy but this isn't the case for me 

Memories of Saturday rushed into my mind. Tears rolled down my cheeks at the thought of Michael. 

I looked at the popular poem I designed for him on the wall 

Did you hear about the rose that grew from a crack in the concrete? 

Proving Nature's laws wrong it learned to walk without having feet 

Funny it seems but by living its dreams it learnt to breathe fresh air 

Long live the rose that grew from concrete when no one else cared! 

 ---in dedication to Michael Williams. Rest in Peace Michael. On Saturday 5th July heaven gained another angel ❤️ 

With a heavy sigh, I got up from bed and went to the bathroom. Sluggishly, I prepared for school. 

I wore a white button up shirt with black shorts and black wedges. At least I had to look presentable 

I looked at the poem one more time before I left for school. 

Drew's P. O. V 

I laid on my bed throwing my basketball at the wall and catching it when it bounced back. 

I did it like 15 times till it didn't bounce back. 

I just stared at it on the floor, too lazy to go pick it up. 

I ran my hands through my hair and let out a frustrated sigh 

''What is wrong with me?'' I groaned 

''I might have an idea'' 

My foster mom, Sharon said as she leaned against my door frame. I didn't even realize she was there 

''Hey mom" I nervously chuckled "didn't see you there'' 

''Of course, you didn't" she replied "got your head stuck in the clouds'' 

I sighed 

''It's not like that'' 

She walked into my room then sat beside me on the bed 

''Aren't you going to school today?'' She questioned 

I raised an eyebrow at her 

''What does it look like?'' 

''It's Valentine's day, you know'' she sang 

''More reason not to go'' I muttered 

''You can't keep on avoiding her'' 

I scrunched up my nose in confusion 

"Her?" I asked 

"Yes her" 

''Who?'' 

''Please I was a teenager too. You've been drawing pictures of a girl and murmuring Bella for the past week'' 

''I don't know what you're talking about'' I lied 

''How would you feel if somebody took her away from you?'' 

I clenched my fists at the thought but I wasn't ready to admit my feelings 

''She isn't even mine to begin with'' 

''Exactly. Then make her yours'' 

How? 

"She's way out of my league" I mumbled 

"Does it matter?" 

''She doesn't feel the same mom' 

''Did she say she doesn't?" 

''No but'' 

She put her finger on my lips shutting me up 

''Have you even asked her?'' 

I shook my head. 

No, I haven't. I kissed her and ran away. Ever since then I've been avoiding her like the fucking idiot that I am. 

''Drew'' 

''Yeah?'' 

''Go get your girl before someone else does'' 

She gave me a pat on my leg then stood up 

''Thanks mom'' 

''Anytime'' 

Bella 

I opened my locker and screamed inside 

''Whoa who pissed in your cheerio’s?'' 

It was Missy, one of the girls on the cheer leading team. 

I brought my head out and flipped my hair 

''Hi'' I said closing my locker 

''Hello to you too. What's up with you?'' 

''Stuff'' 

As we conversed Drew passed. We locked eyes for a few seconds before he looked away 

Great 

The bell rang meaning Missy and I had to end our discussion and get to class 

''Well, I'll see you at dance practice'' I said 

''Sure'' she replied before we parted ways to our different classes 

****** 

 . 

 I ran to the field for dance practice. I was twenty minutes late because my geography teacher made us draw some extra stuff. Coach is so gonna kill me. I hope she spares me since this is my first time being late 

I stood in my position at the back when I got to the field hoping to get away unnoticed but that didn't work. 

Coach Ann was writing something on her clipboard but looked up as soon as she saw me 

"Bella, you’re late'' coach Ann said 

''I'm sorry ma'am'' I quickly apologized 

''Just get in the line'' 

I joined the other girls on the straight line. 

Coach Ann talked about our new formation. My eyes drifted to the bleachers 

There Drew was smoking what I guessed was weed. Our eyes met 

I thought about that night when we smoked weed together. 

We stared at each other for a long time. He got up, grabbed his backpack and left 

It reminded me of the day we kissed, how he just grabbed his bag and left me 

''Hello. Earth to Bella'' Coach Ann snapped her fingers in my face 

All eyes turned to me 

I blinked my eyes coming back to reality 

''Yes ma'am?'' 

''You seem a little bit off today. Go run 7 laps round the track'' 

''But Coach... '' I tried to protest 

''No buts. Go'' 

I closed my eyes and took a deep breath in. Leslie came in looking pale. 

''Arnolds you're late too. Join Bella on the track'' 

I ignored the glare she gave me 

''Let's just get this over with'' I said rolling my eyes 

''I agree'' 

We ran on track at the same pace 

''How many laps we got?'' Leslie asked 

''Seven'' 

''Coach's really out for us huh?'' 

I chuckled 

Leslie stopped making me stop too 

''What's wrong?" I queried 

''Something's not right" she said “Why aren't you being mean to me?'' 

I became confused 

''What are you talking about?" 

''I know you saw what happened on Saturday when Eric kicked me out. Why aren't you teasing me about it?" 

''Look Leslie, its childish to tease you about something like that alright. Its none of my business but honestly, I feel sorry for you'' 

With that being said, we continued jogging in silence

Once I got back to my cot...

"Ah, that feels good."

I placed the ice pack I got from the first aid kit on to my swollen hand. The coldness from the ice pack instantly dulled the throbbing pain. 

"Is it bad?"

Amanda, who was sitting adjacent to me on Andy's cot worriedly asks.

Showing a bitter smile because of how worried she is, I tell her.

"It's fine. It's only a minor bruise. If I keep the ice pack on it, the swelling should go down in about couple of minutes or so."

"Fuu, that's good. Uhm, Desmond?"

"Yeah?"

"... I'm sorry!"

With a sad and guilty expression on her face, Amanda apologies. 

Feeling a little flustered due to Amanda's sudden apology, I shake my head side to side and frantically say.

"T-there's no need to apologise!"

"But I'm the reason your hand got hurt!"

"This isn't a big deal! I used to get a bunch of these back in middle school! I went to the nurse's office so much back then that me and the nurse got to know each other on a personal level!"

I fondly remember Ms. Chester, she was a nice but tough old lady. I wonder if she kicked the bucket yet...? Nah, knowing her, maybe not.

"But…"

"Hey, no 'buts'! And besides, he deserved it."

Insulting my mom is an absolute no-no. Those who do will pay the price.

"Uhm, Is her name the tattoo on your left arm?"

"Well, it's about time you asked."

"W-what do you mean?"

"Haha, you didn't think I wouldn't notice you sneaking glances at my arms every now and then?"

"... Sorry."

Embarrassed about being found out, Amanda bashfully lowers her head. Her flustered expression is cute.

"Since you wanna see them so bad, I'll show you."

As I said this, I put down the ice pack, take off my Blazer and slowly rolled up my sleeves to show her the tattoos that covered my arms. 

I'm not uncomfortable doing this by the way, in fact, I don't mind showing them off. It's just that this school has a stigma regarding tattoos that I couldn't wear them out in the open. I even had to wear a long sleeve shirt during gym class.

If it wasn't because this school was such a good and prestigious one, I might've went back to public school. Teens with tattoos at those schools are a dime a dozen.

"What's that one?"

"That on is…"

The first tattoo Amanda pointed at was the one on the back of my right forearm. It was the iconic Latin phrase 'Memento Mori' written in cursive. 

"What inspired you to get that one?"

"Easy. It's because my last name is Mori. I thought it would be cool to get this tattoo since my name was in it."

I know it's stupid but hey, this tattoo rocks!

"I see...then what about this one?"

"This one's a very sentimental one."

The next tattoo she pointed was the one that covered my entire inner left forearm. It was Tupac's most famous poem, 'The Rose That Grew From Concrete.'

"It's a wonderful poem. What made you get it?"

"I decided to get this tattoo because of my dad. He was originally from Compton, which during the 1980's and 90's was filled with nothing but drugs and violence. It was only through his hard work and dedication, that he managed to make it out of there. So, to me, he was the definition of a rose that grew from concrete."

"Wow! Your dad is amazing!"

"He was amazing...He died overseas seven years ago. He was a private contractor."

I said a little sad. My dad was a fun and outgoing man, he never let stuff get to him. Whenever he got back from a job, he would spend all of his time with me and mom. 

Those were good times. To bad they're gone now, one I.E.D. was all it took.

One motherf*cking I.E.D.!

"*Gasp* I-I didn't mean to bring up bad memories!"

Amanda quickly said trying to cheer me up.
With a deep breath, I get my emotions under control and tell her I'm alright.

"It's okay. Although he's gone I still have a lot of good memories about him...Now, as for the last two tattoos. As you saw earlier, this tattoo is my mom's name. The reason why I got this one is pretty self-explanatory...

I then show her the tattoo on the back of my left forearm. It was my mom's name written in cursive and it had her date of birth and date of death written under it.

By the way, she was born on June 18th, 1974 and she died on September 16th, 2017. She was 43.

"Lucille Mori. Your mom has a beautiful name."

"Thank you…here is my last arm tattoo."

Wanting to change the subject away from my parents, I move onto my last arm tattoo. It was on my upper right forearm, in simple bold letters, it read...

"Wing Ridden Angel? What does that mean?"

"I got it in remembrance of a certain rapper."

"Who?"

"Unknown Temptation. Do you know him?"

"No. I don't listen to music like that. I prefer reading books instead."

"Oh, so you're the bookworm type, huh? Well, that's fine. You probably wouldn't have liked him anyway. He's very controversial ...Okay, that ends the tour of my arm tattoos. I hope you had a wonderful experience! Would you care to give me a rating?"

Using a voice akin to a tour guide, I show Amanda a smile. In a small laugh, she says.

"Haha, it was a great experience. Five stars!"

"Great! I'm thankful for the feedback! Hahaha!"

"Hahaha!"

The moment me and Amanda started laughing...

"Attention everyone!"

We heard Big Sis' charismatic voice. Turning our attention her way, we see her standing in front of the bleachers.

"Attention everyone! I need everyone to gather around me! I have a very important announcement to make. Your lives depend on it!"

"Sigh, guess it's time. Let's go over there to where she's at."

"Okay."

Putting on my blazer, I get up from the cot and head towards the bleachers. 

"Damn, I'm getting jittery."

I nervously mumbled to myself the closer we got to bleachers. Although, I've been trying to act calm his whole time, I'm actually nervous!

I don't know if my plan is going to work or not. 

I hope it works. No, I pray that it works. However, I can't forget the possibility of it not working. And that possibility is what scares me.

"Okay, now that almost everyone's here, I'll get down to business.  

While trying to keep my nervousness under wraps, Big Sis' loudly proclaims.

"In a couple of hours we will be leaving the gym!"

I-it appeared out of nowhere. People started eating and attacking each other in a zombie like craze! Throwing all of Pelican Soar Academy into a bloody place filled with screams of agony and chaos.

 I saw Best friends betray each other at the drop of a hat.

I witnessed teachers sacrifice their own students just to save themselves! 

...Has man's true nature finally show itself after hiding all this time? And if so, then who's the real monster?

Well, either way, whether it's people or those monsters, I will protect everything that's precious to me and survive.

Even if I become a monster in the process.

-Desmond Mori

"Zero!"
The widow, Ning Qing, finished her countdown.
Then, she slipped into a daze!
Ning Que turned her gaze toward her mistress. Should she slice her blade downward?
Ning Qing sat up with a little difficulty. She stared at Yun Zhonghe with her red eyes.
This… This was a beggar, a hooligan?
This was an illiterate man who dropped out of school in his first year of kindergarten?
He was able to produce a poem like that?
"What's that poem called?" Ning Qing asked.
Yun Zhonghe thought for a moment before he replied, "I haven't thought of a good name for it. However, if you want me to forcefully give it a name, then let's call it 'Mister Taia'."
'Mister Taia'?
That's right, Taia. That's too fitting.
The first line, 'There are goodbyes as the blossoms move west.'
In this world, goodbyes were always accompanied by folded willows or blossoms. People folded willows during summer and spring and folded blossoms during the harsh winter.
This was especially so for a person who had been demoted from an official position. They would have to move from the prosperous east to the barren west.
The further west they headed, the drier the climate became, and the more pitiful they were. Willow trees could not survive in the west; neither could cherry blossoms.
Thus, while there are many cherry blossoms in the east, their numbers grow fewer the further west a person travels.
Twenty years ago, the Crown Prince of the Great Xia Empire failed in his revolt. As the mentor of the Crown Prince, Li Taia was demoted and sent to the barren lands in the extreme west. Many people from the world of literature folded willows as they sent him off.
The second line, 'There is sorrow as the snow travels down south.'
Snow usually falls from the north toward the south. The more south a place was, the hotter the climate, and thus there would be no snow.
Furthermore, every time there was a tragedy, the sky always seemed as though it was about to snow heavily.
That would also happen if there were a grave injustice or a grave vengeance.
Twenty years ago, when many soldiers died during the revolt of the Crown Prince of the Great Xia Empire, massive snow fell for several consecutive nights. It was as if the snow was trying to cover up the endless sea of blood.
The snow spanned tens of thousands of miles as it fell from the north to the south. The damaged land was dyed a pitiful white.
There had been no one in the world who dared to mourn, but the heavy snow dyed the world white as if it mourned in the place of humanity.
The third and fourth lines, 'I will always be a man of the mountains. Unable to obtain a comforting hug from my descendants'.
These two lines emphasized Mister Taia's humble background. He had studied bitterly in the mountains. He radiated loneliness and pride. However, he was not treated kindly despite his talents and was always discriminated against and looked down upon by the nobles.
If not for the repeated humble visits by the Crown Prince, there would not have been such an affinity between him and the Crown Prince.
***
The original poem was already exceptional. However, after explaining the poem to herself, Ning Qing felt as though the poem was the best in the world.
It was a complete summary of Mister Taia's life.
Mister Taia was the master that the Legendary Talented Lady, Ning Qing, admired most in her life.
In that instant, the poem had pierced through her soul.
Furthermore, what was more difficult was that the topic of this poem had been chosen very randomly.
Yun AoTian was absurd. The four lines of the doggerel he wrote at first were completely random.
That was why Ning Qing had asked him to start his new poem with the words 'every,''blood,''a,' and 'difficult.' She wanted to surprise him and catch him off guard.
In such a short amount of time, with barely enough time to catch a few breaths, what he had done did not pale in comparison to composing a poem in seven steps.
It was difficult enough to compose a poem with the four words, but it was even more difficult to come up with an excellent piece. To compose such a piece in less than a minute was difficult beyond imagination. The poem that he composed was still related to a central theme and touched Ning Qing's soul. That was as difficult as touching the sky.
The gaze Ning Qing shot Yun Zhonghe was filled with disbelief.
This was a poem composed by a beggar? This was a poem composed by an illiterate?
How rare was such a talent?
It was too shocking.
Ning Qing only said a while later, "It was a good poem, a good poem."
Ning Que immediately moved her blade away from Yun Zhonghe's crotch.
Yun Zhonghe could not help but heave a long sigh of relief. He was covered in sweat. He even had the urge to wet himself just now.
Ning Qing looked toward Yun Zhonghe's beggar-like face and said, "You have the right to mock poetry now. We can continue our conversation. What do you wish to say? What do you wish to do?"
At that moment, blood was continuously flowing out of her nostril. Blood even started to spurt out from the corner of her mouth.
It was like a fountain.
The situation felt wrong.
According to the detailed information found in the spy's records, Ning Qing should have been poisoned with a slow-acting poison such as mercury or lead.
Her symptoms should include shedding hair, urinating blood, irregular menstrual cycles, warts on her hands, insomnia, frequent dreams, etc.
However, the severity of the situation before him indicated that she suffered from acute mercury poisoning. It might not solely be mercury poisoning anymore.
Furthermore, judging from the symptoms, she should have just been poisoned.
"Mistress, I'll get the physician immediately." Ning Que sprinted out of the room.
"I am a physician," Yun Zhonghe said, "Your mistress has been poisoned by someone. Furthermore, she had been poisoned not too long ago. We have to treat her immediately or her life will be in danger. What did she eat just now? The person who delivered the food, the people who made the food. Capture all of them."
Ning Qing looked at Yun Zhonghe for a moment, then trembled as she said, "Go… Go quickly."
Ning Qing immediately fainted after she finished her sentence.
Ning Que ran toward the exit without saying another word.
Yun Zhonghe shouted, "Don't go. Only I can save your mistress now."
Ning Que turned around to look at Yun Zhonghe. She hesitated for a long while.
Even though the beggar before her was acting strange, she still believed the physician she was familiar with.
Thus, she still chose to run out and look for a physician. Furthermore, her mistress had many taboos. She would only let a female physician treat her.
At that moment, Yun Zhonghe could not care about it too much. He took out a small gourd from his robes and immediately stepped forward to help Ning Qing up.
"Slap, slap, slap…" He slapped Ning Qing several times.
He then pressed down hard on her philtrum.
Ning Qing woke up groggily.
Yun Zhonghe immediately poured the liquid within the gourd into her mouth.
In just half a minute, Yu Zhonghe had emptied half of the liquid from the gourd into Ning Qing's stomach.
Ning Qing panted as she said, "You, what did you make me drink? Why did it taste so weird?"
"What else could it be?" Yun Zhonghe said, "That's my virgin pee."
What? That's not right, Yun Zhonghe would never bring along something like that everywhere he went.
However, Ning Qing's expression changed drastically when she heard his words.
"Urgh… Urgh…"
The contents in her stomach instantly poured out like a fountain.
She vomited without stopping to catch her breath.
However, Yun Zhonghe was still not satisfied. She had not vomited everything out.
She had not vomited all of the poison in her stomach.
Thus, he pried Ning Qing's mouth open and poured in the other half of the liquid in the gourd.
He then shoved a chopstick down Ning Qing's throat.
Ning Qing vomited once again.
At that moment, Yun Zhonghe pressed against Ning Qing's ear and whispered, "Lady Ning Qing, do not speak. Remember everything I am going to say. It is very important."
Ning Qing nodded as she vomited.
Yun Zhonghe spoke quickly. He was fighting for time, yet it did not delay his rescue efforts.
It was just that the image seemed a little gruesome.
Ning Que happened to witness this scene when she charged into the room with four physicians.
Yun Zhonghe was stuffing Ning Qing's mouth with something and then pushing a chopstick down her throat.
This… This was a scene of a murder.
In that instant, Ning Que's expression changed drastically.
She was incredibly remorseful. She had rushed out of the room to look for a physician just now but left her mistress alone in the study with the beggar.
She had been too careless.
"Yun AoTian, what are you doing? Are you asking for death?" Ning Que shouted fiercely. "Guards, break this beggar's limbs and toss him into the underground jail."
A few warriors charged into the room in an instant.
"Don't hit him, don't injure him," Ning Qing said, incredibly weak.
"Yes!" Ning Que nodded as she said, "Mistress, Physician Xu is here."
The four physicians who had come in were all women.
Yun Zhonghe said, "I'm already finished with inducing vomiting. Go and get some milk and feed Lady Ning Qing. Feed her continuously, feed her continuously."
The female physician said, "I know what to do. Get out. It's not convenient for a man to be here."
Then, a few warriors rushed over and escorted Yun Zhonghe out.
Yun Zhonghe said, "Lady Ning Qing, remember what I said… Doctor's instructions!"
He was then led out of the room by the warriors as if he was a little chick.
Ning Qing glanced at Yun Zhonghe with difficulty, then fainted.
Lady Ning Qing's aide, Ning Que, said, "Let Mister Yun rest, serve him well."
The warriors escorted Yun Zhonghe out of Ning Qing's study.
Before he left, Yun Zhonghe turned to look at the comatose Ning Qing.
***
"Where are we going?" Yun Zhonghe asked.
The warriors did not bring him to another room in the castle. Instead, they were escorting him toward the exit.
"You'll know when we get there," one of the warriors said.
They then entered an underground tunnel.
They… Are they going to hold me in an underground jail cell?
Yun Zhonghe said, "What's the meaning of this? I just saved Lady Ning Qing."
The warrior said, "We'll speak after Lady Ning Qing wakes up. We are still not certain if you were saving her or murdering her."
Yun Zhonghe was then thrown into an underground jail cell.
Yun Zhonghe spent the next few hours in the underground jail of the castle. No one came to bother him.
No one sent him food, nor did anyone come to tell him if Ning Qing was awake, or if she had been treated.
Yun Zhonghe sat cross-legged. He closed his eyes and remained motionless.
His expression was grave, but he felt excited.
The situation had become very interesting.
It had become abnormally interesting.
At first, Yun Zhonghe had felt that it would be extremely difficult to complete the mission. However, currently, the enemy seemed to have given him a helping hand. It made everything much simpler.
Interesting, interesting.
Competing against a human brought immense joy.
***
Half a day passed.
A day passed.
Suddenly, two warriors entered the underground jail and instantly placed their blades on Yun Zhonghe's neck.
"Do you want to die, or to live?" a warrior asked.
"I want to live, I want to live," Yun Zhonghe said.
The warrior asked again, "How did you know that Lady Ning Qing had been poisoned?"
Yun Zhonghe said, "It's a long story. I mainly looked at her symptoms."
The warrior then said, "Is there a spy from the City of Torn Gust in this castle?"
Yun Zhonghe squinted and remained silent.
Then, a fierce pressure was applied on the edge of the sharp blade. The warrior continued with a chilling voice, saying, "Do you wish to die, or to live?"
"I want to live," Yun Zhonghe said.
The warrior continued, saying, "Then speak."
He wanted Yun Zhonghe to speak, but he did not want Yun Zhonghe to speak the truth.
Yun Zhonghe nodded and said, "That's right. There is a spy from the City of Torn Gust in this castle."
The warrior said, "Was it your spy who poisoned Lady Ning Qing?"
Yun Zhonghe said, "Sir, should I answer yes or no?"
"Do you wish to die?" the warrior asked.
"Yes," Yun Zhonghe said without hesitation. "You are right. It is the spy from the City of Torn Gust that poisoned Lady Ning Qing."
The warrior continued, saying, "You guys sent a spy to poison Lady Ning Qing, then sent you, Yun AoTian, to give her the antidote and save her life. This way, you would have the favor of saving Lady Ning Qing's life on your side. Then, Lady Ning Qing would naturally be biased toward you guys in the report to come, right?"
Wow! What a genius. There were no faults to the enemy's false charges.
"This is all a part of your scheme, a despicable scheme. It was you guys who administered the poison, and it was you guys who saved her life. You sure used every despicable method at your disposal for that report. However, you are merely seeking your death!"
"Yun AoTian of the Valley of Torn Gust, we have concrete evidence that you attempted to murder Lady Ning Qing, and you have already confessed. You will be executed!"
***


In the midst of an explosion of the X Psychiatric Hospital, Yun Zhonghe, the hospital director traveled back in time.  29 genius mental health patients' souls entered his brain, equipping him with 29 peculiar abilities. He joined the imperial intelligence agency and went undercover in the enemy state. Years have passed, if I don't resume my original identity, I would soon become the emperor of the enemy state!

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