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

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

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

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

The sun was high when Grey stepped out of the gym after her Jazz class. Tired, but invigorated from the choreography. It was a welcome change from the morning lecture.



She enjoyed the sharp movements and frenetic activity of the style, and it appealed to werewolves, nearly a quarter of the class was composed of her race, the rest were humans. She expected a different make-up in ballet tomorrow. Atypical perhaps, but in her heart responded to the beauty and poetry of ballet.



With it less than a week away, she could feel the pull of the corn moon. It made her pulse speed up and her blood thrum, and the feeling would only grow as it got closer. As a child, it was difficult to fight. Grey was seven before she could keep control over those three days when the moon was strongest, and another year before only the true full moon was a problem. It frustrated her that she couldn't resist the change, as some others could, but she was grateful she had control when she did transform.






She knew there were those of her clan who never mastered control. Some were ashamed, believing that their weakness was similar to a person who could never quite toilet train. Others were proud, claiming they were closer to the moon goddess, and this was how all werewolves should be. Many of these had to be policed for their violent behavior.



A minority of her tribe were able to assume what they called their half form. So in tune with their nature, they could, at will, take a furred form on two legs with the head of a wolf. Such werewolves were greatly respected. Her father was one such, and Grey hoped she could one day master it.



Fred met her for lunch and they chatted about their day. They had both heard the announcement about the mandatory meeting on Thursday and wondered what it would be about.



"Maybe they are afraid the werewolves are going to hunt the human students," Grey offered.



"I don't know," said Fred. "That wouldn't be fair, singling us out. After all, vampires are much more likely to do something like that, and there was no announcement about them."



"Yeah, you're right. Well, we don't have long before we find out."



The next day Grey had movement class in the evening. It was pretty rudimentary as far as she was concerned, but it was a requirement of her major.



The fine arts building, where the bulk of her classes were offered, was across the street from the student union. Besides dance, drama and music classes took place there. Earlier in the day, she had her first ballet class, which like all the dance classes was made up of mostly female students. Unlike Jazz, the class make-up was humans and vampires. She was the only werewolf present. However, this class, being mandatory, had a fairly even distribution of races. It was a standard classroom with a wood floor and a long metal barre in front of a wall of mirrors. They were on the second floor, with a good view of the sky, slowly stained red by the sunset.



As she limbered up the door flew open. Framed in the doorway was the most stunning man she had ever seen. Long-limbed and svelte, with luminous turquoise eyes. An unruly mop of auburn hair and one-sided smile gave him an impish look. A pair of fangs peeked out from between full lips.



He paused in the portal, while everyone stared, before he swept off his trenchcoat with a flourish and bowed. "Is this the movement class?" His voice was strong and well-modulated. Grey imagined he would sing beautifully.



"It is," answered the instructor. She eyed his black leather pants and motorcycle boots. "Next time you should wear something more flexible, for now, just remove your shoes. Are you sure this is the right class?"



He looked embarrassed and tossed his head. "I didn't have much say. My director insisted on it after that last fencing session. I'm playing Romeo in the fall production, but I digress."



The woman clapped her hands and said, "Alright everyone this is Laban movement class and I am your instructor, Professor Ashante Abebe. Spread out, and let's get started."



Grey found a place and started the movements, working on her flexibility and flow. She spared a glance at the dramatic vampire. He looked very awkward but was managing the floor work. Then they flowed up onto their feet.



She heard a loud bang and a cry of pain. The newcomer was laying on the floor, holding his head.



Abebe rushed over and checked on him. "How did you manage to land on your head? Do you want to sit out for a while."



"No, I'm fine." He grimaced. "I can do this."



Over the course of the session, he tripped over his feet twice and strained a muscle in his shoulder. The guy was a complete disaster, but Grey admired his determination. After class, she went up to him.



"Are you all right... sorry, I didn't catch your name."



"Lazarus. Sure, a little blood I'll be as good as new." He stretched and winced. "How about a contribution? I give a great bite."



Grey was tempted. She was curious about what that would be like, and he was unlike anyone she had ever met. But if she agreed, could he view her as anything other than a food source? Caution won out over fascination. "Sorry, maybe next time. I have a feeling that if you don't drop this class you're risking death."



He chuckled. "You might be right about that. Until next time, fair lady."

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


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


For the first fifteen minutes, the two groups split up. The exercise was simple in concept alone. there would be two rounds and there would be forty participants for each round, with twenty on each team, because as large as the academy was there were currently only a hundred and sixteen tenants with sixty more supervisors. The entire academy was a whopping hundred acres, plenty of space for the five fields that were worth only roughly two acres each and the separate training ground that were actually underground. 128 couldn't help but also acknowledge that such a size made his plan more difficult.
The two teams of twenty would split up, with one of them going into the three dimensional maze of metal, wood, and mirrors. The team inside got the fifteen minutes to scour as much of the inside as possible while the other examined the outside. The team on the outside had a slight disadvantage, but that was an element that was usually included in training exercises.
128 was in the first round and was part of the team going in second. The two siblings were on the other team for the first round, which meant that 128 was going to be on the losing side. It wasn't that he couldn't make a plan to beat the team, but because 368 had been injured and didn't want her to be included in the punishment, besides, saving the many was more important, it was two to one.
He naturally fell into one of the candidates to the leader role of the group with the only other one was another older boy who was thirteen. His number was 412, had short blonde hair, orange eyes, and he was a another stand out tenant. He was strong, and went almost toe to toe with 57 and 127 when it came to combat, with heavy emphasis on the almost, because while when they had extremely brutal and difficult fights with each other when they sparred, 412 had yet to actually win.
Whether he was aware of it or not 412 was going to be more antsy to one up him, along with his group of two others were going during the second round. The group seemed to be split between the two boys as they took the first few minutes to discuss a game plan.
"We can break off into four groups of five and examine all that we can from the outside." The three dimensional arena of sorts was a cube with holes of various shapes and sizes, inside was a tangle of wooden and metal branch like structures, many of which had sharp endings. A large amount of flat platforms of metal, a few lights, and mirrors were scattered around, all of which were angled oddly, and not just horizontally and vertically.
"I say that we should listen in on their plans by climbing up." 412 was something that was technically allowed, but it was dumb, it would be near, if not completely, impossible to hear the opposing team's plan, but if 128 knew how to do anything, it was to take advantage.
"No, it is much more worth it to see what we can first, the days are getting shorter and it's already fairly dark." He reasoned, as if trying to give them the best chance of winning when he was just going to agitate 412 instead.
"The other teams could overhear once we get back!" The older boy growled back.
"That is not an issue, our only concern is with ourselves."
"What do you mean it's not an issue, they're our competition." 128 sighed and looked around at the other teammates, then looked back at 412.
"I'll take 11 others to look around and you and the other 7 can try and listen."
"No, we each take half."
「Perfect」
"Fine." The interaction had become very favorable. Half of the group would be more prepared, and the other half risked giving false information.
128 took his half of the team and had to slip them into two groups of two and two groups of three, with him in one of the groups of two. The sun was completely set with only a bit of light, which allowed for them to sometimes check the reflection of the mirrors and metal.
branches of iron and wood ranged from being too small to hang on, to sometimes downright flimsy in the cases of a which he could see. Others were able to hold two people standing, but running while fighting on time would be dangerous. It wasn't different from the other times they had done the exercise, it was just the change in layout and how there seemed to be even more mirrors this time around.
One couldn't even hear the sounds of even muffled voices, so making out the oppositions plan was impossible, even for 127, thankfully 214's pride would prevent him from backing down. 57 and 368 weren't dumb enough to have the plan meeting s near one of the walls, and that was their only advantage. Taking time to observe, the team on the outside would stick to the areas closer to the walls, while the team inside would be closer to the center.
Conflict would occur in a sort of ring formation where the to area's met, but it was a risk to scour that area in case the other team's members saw you. 128 and the other tenant he was with did a quick and well of a sweep as they could with only the two of them. It wasn't too bad since they had taken one of the smaller walls with forty thousand square feet, but it was still a chore.
Six minutes before the round began, everyone reconvened.
"We couldn't find anything." one of them admitted. 128 nodded in understanding.
"Pair up with someone who was in my group." It was one of the best options at that point for a clearly panicking group. The others were uneasy and 412 was downright furious at him for seemingly taking charge, which he truthfully was.
"Listen up! I've been through more than you-"
"We need to get a move on, we only have less than four minutes." 128 interrupted calmly, though with a slight edge to his voice. 412 clicked his tongue as he took four others with him, partially against their wills.
128 sighed again and also organized a few groups, the other were split into uneven teams based off of 12's general knowledge of their abilities, he took a group of three others with him to stay at the side they were one since he was most familiar, while the other groups of five and six took the longer walls.
There was one minute left to ease his mind. 128 knew he had planned for the other 19 to also receive the punishment for losing but that didn't make the guilt any better, in fact, it made it worse. It was the same thing every time this would happen, but he didn't have much of a choice.
The alarm in everyone's collars went off and they ran inside.
128 lumped into a circle shaped hole near the ground, before climbing up using the branches of metal and wood. He stuck to the safest part, still close to the wall and went up until he could faintly see another light source. The sounds of two footsteps were close to him, but clearly members of his own team as he got on a wider branch, readied his BB gun and started to walk towards the center and closer to the light source.
The metal branch he was one was tapering to a point once he walked up higher on it. He then leaped to a wooden one that save for the smallest creek from his weight, made no sound due to how he was still a preteen. He tensed up as he heard the shot of one of the BBs going off, it meant someone was likely already out, and that he was nearing the area of conflict.
128 quickened his pace, still staying as quiet as he could until he reached the light he had been aiming for, there were several mirrors strategically positioned nearby that he had to take a full look around to make sure where exactly he would be heading next. He thought he heard something inwards and risked going away from his current source of light. Once he got closer, he clearly heard the sounds of a fight, the clashing of wood on wood was crystal clear.
When he could see the two, he could make out two figures, and a few others that were also approaching. Fights like this tended to attract more attention, and more attention meant more nearby fights and a bigger risk. 128 noted the height they were at, concerned as he chose to attack the next nearest person., fighting in the dark meant that you might take out your own teammate, but at this point, based off of the direction they were coming from, they were on the opposite team.
Lifting his BB gun to fire, 128 took aim, but before he could pull the sticker a series of loud sounds reached the ears of all those close enough to hear them. The bones breaking, screams of agony, a thud, then silence.

In year 2105, over fifty years after the third world war. The entire world's structure has changed. Emperors and nobles have returned worldwide, as each country is ruled by an emperor, their duke's, marquis' and others. Noble and high society have been reestablished, and the world has been relatively peaceful for many decades. 
However, a young boy knows a world much more different. The reason that orphans and homeless people no longer exist is because they are either killed off, or as in the case of him, sent to be an unpaid soldier of the empire of Japan. One day he finds an opportunity, and decides to take action.
128, no, Hotaru Yoshikawa is a clever and strong person despite his physique. He gathers a few of his closest friends and together they're getting ready to completely shatter the system.

--??? POV--
'How long? How long have I been trapped in this forsaken prison of blood? What happened to the cosmic mana stream? When I awoke, it was gone, and it was essential for my escape.' I sigh, 'I originally wanted to escape for a rematch, but I've been in here so long that even my desire to fight that vicious Goddess again has faded.'
Opening my eyes once again, I stare out onto the bizarre facility of metal. Underneath my prison, they have me suspended by metal claws like they're afraid of making contact with the material that makes up my prison… but I can't fault them too much; it could instantly turn weaklings to sludge.
To my left and right, run two metal walkways, each with a railing. Around me sits four giant mirrors that seem to be designed with the idea of only allowing them to see me and me not see them. However, such petty tricks won't work on me.
The rest of the room is simply made of thick looking metal that appears to have a red hue. Though sometimes I wonder if the metal is dyed red or if it is simply because of where I am.
My attention turns back to the four mirrors. From them, I can see the tattered remnant of my muscular form. My once blazing yellow and white feathers that ran up my chest and neck have long since disintegrated in this caustic blood mixture. My golden helmet that resembled an osprey crumbled away long ago, leaving nothing but a few bits and pieces stuck to my skin. My deadly talons and feet didn't even make it since the goddess liquified them with her cursed magic. As for my skin, It was millennia ago that most of it melted away, and the muscles beneath were exposed to the mixture. The only thing remaining is bones, some muscles, and a few patches of skin.
Outside of my prison, two human men speak to another man who seems a little different than the others, possibly foreign. They often point to me as if assuring them of something. This is eons better than where I was buried before they dug me up. At least here something happens besides the occasional scorpion crawling by; not since those people built that pyramid around me all that time ago have I been surrounded by so much activity. But still...
'There is one thing I crave something essential to my very existence, and I would do anything to have it. What I crave is...'
"Beta entity 4 located…
Uploading entity data to Cosmic System now…"
…
…
…
'Ha...hahahahahah! Finally! Finally! Finally! It's time, this will cripple my body and drain my soul, but that's okay! I'm okay with starting over from the beginning as a weakling. I have many fond memories of those times all those millennia ago. Fighting with my brothers, ripping apart walls that were thought to be unbreakable, challenging those that were thought to be unchallengeable, I simply adored every second of it!'
**Chink**
A crack appears in my prison as my body becomes hot like burning lava. What remains of my flesh begins to bubble as it pushes against the goddess's prison.
'I cannot wait; I am so excited that I will start now.' I grin, 'But that's to be expected, acting on impulse is a bad habit of beings like me. We are simply used to being untouchable and rarely consider the consequences of our actions, but I cannot sit in here any longer!'
**Chink**
'I'll just have to remember that it'll be different and even weaklings could challenge me, but honestly, that makes my blood simply boil! The things I'll be able to teach this sleepy world!'
**Boom!**
Pieces of crystallized blood and liquids explode across the room. The liquid hits the mirrors and corrodes them on impact instantly while the crystallized blood simply shoots through both the mirrors and the thick steel as if made of butter. The first thing that assaults my senses is a loud blaring reminiscent of a warning horn from the past.
"W-what! It broke out; it's moving!"
Hot steam starts to shoot out from the walls obscuring my vision, but as before, it does little to me. I take a step forward on what remains of my feet and stop for a moment to regain my balance.
While adjusting, I laugh and yell, "Hahaha! Humans, I require a new body, I'll ask for volunteers first. Just know in the past it would have been a great honor that millions would have coveted! So knowing this is anyone willing to give me their body!?"
"It can talk!? Fire the darts! Activate the turrets! We have a high-level breach!" a human bellows.
Suddenly my flesh that is already sloughing off is assaulted by countless darts filled with blue liquid and tiny metal objects. Yet, even in my state of near-death, these darts and metal don't even manage to pierce my flesh.
Still, this atmosphere excites me, "I like it! I thought humans were cowards, but perhaps times have changed! I shall honor you, humans, by giving you a battle as you desire. Please, forgive me if I do not meet your expectations as I am not like I used to be."
I charge forward, warping the ground with each of my steps. Raising my fist, I bring it down upon one of the humans.
**Splat**
"Essence Acquired 6"
Unexpectedly, they offer essentially no resistance, almost like someone who has never leveled a day in their life. Raising my leg and bringing it down onto another human I achieve the same results.
"Essence Acquired 7"
Bewildered, I look at the foreigner, "Why are you humans so weak? Even children should be stronger than this."
"I-I'm sorry I don't know what you mean!" the man speaks.
"Human. What is your name?"
"M-Mio Nakamura." the man bows, but it does little to hide his shaking legs.
"Well, Mio, you should know that I will take good care of your body and soul for you!"
"No, please!" Mio screams.
I grab Mio with my left hand as he squirms, "Divinity's Last Rites!" I shout.
"Entity is placing a command that will strip the entity of all levels, divinity, and a portion of the entity's memories. Entity will only be able to transfer as much of the entity's soul as new vessel can contain. Additionally, the entity's throne will be forfeit or inaccessible. Does the entity wish to continue?"
I hesitate for a moment, only for my right arm to fall from my body and splatter on the ground.
"I will be different after this, but yes, otherwise I'll simply melt into a puddle."
A large yellow seal appears beneath my feet and like a warrior charging into battle, I roar, shaking the very building's foundation and causing pieces of the ceiling to fall.
"I am the greatest warrior to have ever lived! So regardless of how I change, I shall both preserve and build my legacy anew! The mountains will step from my path or they will crumble, the people shall shout my name or die whispering it, and nature itself will provide for me or burn; just as it did in the past! May the Earth itself never forget my name!"
On Mio's forehead, a symbol of an eye with an osprey head as the pupil is burned and glows with a yellow light. At the same time, a yellow light shines from my own raggedy body as it begins to crumble like sand and spin. The sand begins to rotate like a tornado around Mio and myself as his body also begins to breakdown.
Now it feels as if my consciousness is split into many different areas at once as the sand of our two bodies begins to become intertwined. As Mio's soul is absorbed into my own, I begin to learn and understand things about the world I did not before. While at the same time, I forget things I vaguely recall thinking I would never forget, regardless of the process.
Crushing my feelings of loss and looking through Mio's memories, I'm a bit surprised.
'So this world has gone without any mana whatsoever? I thought it was just the interface, but they had absolutely nothing. No wonder these humans were squashed like paste.'
The sand blows, tearing at the walls of the metal room and begins to converge. My line of sight falls by several feet when I find myself standing in a room that now appears giant.
'I am so short now. I do not like it.'
"Diplomat Mio!? Are you okay where did Subject Zeta go?"
Glancing down at the suit Mio was wearing, I button my jacket to hide a feather that has sprouted from my chest. Suddenly a large group of humans runs in equipped with what I now know are rifles and machine guns.
"Yes!" I shout. "...Wait."
Remembering that I've started over, I calm myself and run through Mio's memories.
"Uh, I mean yes he left me alive because he needed me to deliver a message." I try to answer casually.
"A message? What did he say?" one of the humans asks.
"He said, 'What I crave is War and I, Cyril, shall have it.'"

In the distant past, mana flowed freely across all the Earth. There were numerous races, ferocious beasts, monsters, and even gods. These forces put considerable pressure upon humanity, pushing their population to the lowest point in history. In an effort to save his worshippers, the God of Heaven initiated his so-called "War of Righteousness". 

Many races were devastated, however none more so than the blood race. With her people facing extinction, the Goddess of Blood created the spitefully named Evil Goddess System to preserve her legacy in the worst-case scenario. Eventually, the Goddess fell, and the blood race went extinct.

Not long after the Earth was cut off from the cosmic mana stream and the numerous magical creatures inexplicably and suddenly vanished.

Tens of thousands of years passed, and humanity spread across the Earth. Finally, having sensed the slow return of the Earth's mana, the Evil Goddess System began to search for the inheritor of the Goddess's legacy.

~~The cover was commissioned for use with this novel only.~~

Discord New as of 4/28/20: https://discord.gg/Bjcgf9E

"Tch."
Mira clicks her tongue as she forms a triangle with her palms after which yellow beams begin to fire out of her mirrors to counter the blades.
The collision between metal and the energy attacks rocks the arena continuously as the participants begin to get riled up by the rather intensifying stakes of the match.
Dan uses the clash as a distraction to move in on Mira's position with the latter seemingly oblivious to that fact as she concentrated on taking out the blades heading towards her.
Dan quickly circled around her with his eyes on the prize but before he could get close a massive beam shoots from the sky and blows up the earth in front of him sending the latter crashing back due to the blast.
Dan turns his attention to the sky to find six distinct mirrors aimed at him.
"I guess she is better than I thought."
Dan thinks to himself with a smirk.
"I'm not like the other fighters you have faced before now. I will not be losing this round."
Mira remarks as she turned all her mirrors in Dan's direction seeing as she had taken care of all the knives shot towards her.
"That is very good."
Dan remarks while nodding his head as he got to his feet.
"Your offense is quite formidable. But then, what about your defense??"
Dan asks as he snaps his fingers after which all the knives that Mira had shot down began to rise up again, floating in mid air due to Dan's manipulation.
"Tch, seriously…"
Mira clicks her tongue as she realizes that she was completely surrounded by the knives.
"How do you plan on evading this??"
Dan asks as he goes on one knee.
"By taking out the source of the attack before he strikes."
Mira remarks as she quickly tries to blast Dan away but then….
"No, you go on the defense."
Dan retorts as he snaps his fingers and the knives immediately shoot towards Mira at supersonic speeds.
"Oh shit."
Mira quickly bends low with her mirrors coming around her to from a protective dome.
The knives smash at the mirrors and the barrage of blades continue with no end in sight.
"Shit he has got Mira pinned down."
Killian thinks to himself as he watched the match with a worried look on his face.
"How do you plan on getting out of this??"
Dan asks as he watched the mirror dome crack under pressure from the incessant knives attacks.
"I can't let him beat me. He has got me pinned just like that crazy girl in the last round. Unfortunately unlike the crazy girl, he doesn't seem to be planning on falling unconscious anytime soon. I need to fight back."
Mira mutters to herself as she tried to keep her mirror wall cohesive so as to prevent any knives from getting through.
"Fine then, I'll do that."
Mira remarks as an idea comes to mind.
"Hopefully it works."
Mira mutters as she slams her palms on the ground.
"Mirāāto : Rifurekushon ( Mirror art : Reflection )."
Mira says.
Just then, the rays of the sun falls heavily on the mirrors surrounding Mira causing Dan to put up a brow.
"Hmm, what's going on??"
Dan thinks to himself as he noticed the rays falling heavily on the mirrors.
Soon after the rays of light are reflected back out twice as strong in an omni directional wave of light that caused everyone in the arena to cover their eyes due to the intense brightness.
Dan is cut off guard by the exceedingly bright glow causing him to release his technique with the knives after which all the knives falls to the ground.
"Shit, what the hell is that??"
Dan thinks to himself as the continues to obscure visibility.
"Nice, it worked. He isn't attacking anymore. Now…."
Mira trails off as she quickly moves in Dan's direction with her mirrors around her.
"I can't see anything."
Dan mutters to himself as he staggered back.
Mira comes within meters of him and places a mirror on his chest after which she yelled in a loud voice.
"Mirāburasuto ( mirror blast )."
The mirror placed on Dan's chest pulses incredibly after which a powerful beam is shot out of it.
The beam slams straight into Dan and sends him flying all the way back into the arena wall, causing a huge explosion that rocked the entire combat arena on impact.
The reflected light soon dims with the spectators looking down to behold a rather wondrous scenery.
The attack Mira had used on Dan had carved up a part of the earth on it's path.
*****************
"Yes. That's my girl."
Killian celebrates mentally with a smile forming on his face.
"A rather amazing strategy. She used the reflected light to blind her opponent and used that to land a decisive hit."
Jeroam remarks while nodding his head.
"This is looking to be a rather wonderful affair between fighters."
Roman remarks while nodding his head.
**************************
Mira was watching the area Dam had crashed through with a keen eye.
"If Killian is right about his assessment regarding this guy then that means that attack wouldn't have taken him out completely. I need to stay on guard."
Mira thinks to herself.
"Damn… that one did a number on me. I don't think I'd be able to withstand one of those."
Dan mutters to himself as he stared at Mira standing at the middle of the arena with her mirrors faced in his direction.
"She broke the metal plating I was using. I even sustained considerable damage."
Dan remarks as he inspected his body while still stuck in the wall.
"Do you plan on mumbling to yourself all day or are you coming out of there to finish this match."
Mira yells out in a provocative manner.
"Hmm." Dan squints his eyes as he struggled to pull himself out of the Raza sized crater he had created with his body.
"I need to take him out before he steadies himself."
Mira thinks to herself as she quickly dashes forward.
"Tch, not even giving me a chance to recover properly." 
Dan mutters as he sights the incoming Mira.
Mira quickly fires a barrage of beams at Dan's location with the latter moving out of the way to avoid the blast.
"I can't just stand on ceremony and wait for her to blast me to oblivion."
Dan mutters as he slams his palms together and forms a sword between them after which he dashes forward.
"I can take him."
Mira remarks as she stops in her tracks and forms a gun with her fingers after which she makes a shooting gesture with all mirrors around her firing at Dan at a rapid rate.
"Tch."
Dan quickly moves to the right to avoid the barrage and began to circle around Mira with the latter following after him with her continuous assault.
*****************
"She is actually pressing Dan back."
Ilara remarks vaguely astonished by the match happening below.
"I told you not to put Mira aside. She maybe be rather annoying at times but that doesn't stop the fact that she has been training for this for a while now. She isn't a pushover."
Okoye remarks with Sai scoffing at her words.
"What is it??.. Do you still think Mira is a pushover??"
Okoye asks.
"Oh please, it's clear to see that she is scared."
Sai remarks while rolling his eyes.
"Huh… Scared??... That's not true."
Okoye retorts as she alternated her gaze between Sai and Mira.
"Look at her. She is scared that if she lets up for even a second, Dan would take advantage of that window. It would seem she and Killian have analyzed Dan well enough to understand how he fights."
Sai remarks.
"Hmm." Okoye doesn't reply as she turns her attention back to the match below.
********************
Boom!!!
Boom!!!
Mira doesn't let up in her assault as she continually blasts Dan with the latter narrowly avoiding the incessant attacks as he looked for an opening.
Dan pauses for a brief moment and hurls his sword towards Mira with immense force. Mira doesn't let up as she casually shoots the sword down.
Dan uses the blade as a distraction as he quickly flicked his finger with all the knives scattered around the arena floating into the air.
"Trying to repeat the same trick again won't work."
Mira remarks as she releases her fingers and crosses her hands with her mirrors forming a circular covering around her.
"I know how you fight. You don't know how I fight. This match is mine."
Mira remarks in a menacing tone as she bends low and slams her palms into the earth after which all the mirrors light up and begin to fire in every which way around the arena.
"Let me see you dodge this."
Mira mutters to herself.
"Hmm."
Dan puts up his palm and an iron shield quickly forms in front of him though it was not fast enough to block all the beams that moved in his direction with some of them burning his sides. 


A twist of fate or more like an unexpected turn of events send four individuals on a journey across the realms of Ra'as, a world of superpowers and extraordinary individuals. 

An adventure that will put them against powerful foes and will enable them uncover the secrets behind the real origins of their world is about to begin.

Unknown to our protagonists though is the fact that the threat of war looms over the Planet Ra'as with several factions getting into a struggle for the possession of the omnipotent device known as the Spirit orbs.

An epic tale of love and loss, pain and suffering, despair and revenge awaits all those willing to embark on this adventure with our protagonists.


***********************


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Also add the novel to your library if you are enjoying it. :)

Thanks in advance.

Currently on hiatus... :)

It wasn't being stared at that bothered Ajax. He'd changed schools enough to learn to cope with that. It was easy enough to do, at least in American schools: sit at the back of the class, find a few other kids to hang out with and suddenly you fit right in.
No, it was the eleven year olds that bothered Ajax. Thirteen was the upper end of the recruitment age, but some kids started even younger. When a little girl half his size and scarcely older than the little boy he'd saved from the Awakened ran past him giggling, he buried his head in his hands. It wasn't high school, it was daycare.
The classroom was a large squared-off wedge, much larger than Ajax was used to. Instead of desks, there were six large tables scattered through the room, with computer workstations lining the walls and a circle of folding chairs at one end of the room. The 'guidance counselor' of the night before turned out to also be one of the teachers, and he suggested Ajax follow Natalie for today, so he could learn how the class was structured.
As far as Ajax could tell, the class wasn't structured. Kids wandered between discussions groups at the tables and the workstations whenever they felt like it. A cluster of girls huddled at the folding chairs, gossiping. It was like homeroom, all morning, except there were vigorous discussions of Shakespeare, political science and some kind of math game going on at the tables.
"Everybody has their own academic plan, which the teachers help them put together," explained Natalie. She sat next to him at a table, going over some papers for a younger student. A lot of people seemed to want Natalie's attention, and Seth seemed just as popular.
"Great," said Ajax. "Here, give me some paper, and I'll put together my very own 'academic plan'." The round tables made him nervous, and totally disrupted his strategy of lurking at the back of the class until he figured things out. But they were better than sitting at one of the workstations with his back to the class.
Dubiously, she got him a notebook and a pencil. He immediately started sketching an abstract design. When she finished her work and went to get up, he waved her away. "You go on, do your work. I'll just be over here, doing my thing. That's how this works, right?"
Natalie blew her breath out. "Ajax—"
But just then, Kwan called her. She scowled at Ajax, then left him to his notebook. He kept his head down the rest of the morning. Kwan passed by once, complimenting his sketch, and students kept peering over his shoulder, then wandering off when he ignored them.
By the time lunch rolled around, he'd completed then crumpled four different winding designs. "Why are you throwing them away?" said Natalie.
"I'm done with them. Now what do we do?"
"We get an hour and a half for lunch, then we meet in the gym for the afternoon."
"Back to the cafeteria?"
Natalie smiled. "Only if we have to. Let's go see."
He and Natalie followed the stream of kids heading out of the classroom and down the curving corridor. Eventually they ended up in the large hall Ajax remembered from the night before. It was a huge oval room, with dozens and dozens of 2-meter-wide framed metal sheets lining the walls. There were bookshelves cluttered with gear and knick-knacks scattered between the frames. Some of the frames had post-it notes stuck to them, and others had worn carpets in front of them. It felt simultaneously alien and homey.
As kids approached various mirrors, each one flickered red or blue, then became a rippling image of a cityscape. Chatting to each other, the students stepped into each image and vanished beyond.
"Hey, is that the Eiffel Tower?" asked Ajax. His frayed temper briefly vanished in the wonder of what he was watching.
Seth, behind him, said, "How about steak frites for lunch? Or maybe Chinese? Italian?"
"Absolutely not," said the wall. "Seth and Natalie, you're grounded."
Natalie made a face. "Oh well. Let's get lunch from the cafeteria and eat in the pumpkin courtyard."
"You go on," said Ajax, still watching the portals. "I want to stay here."
"Enjoy, new guy," said Seth, and pushed Natalie away.
When they were gone, Ajax said aloud, "Am I grounded?"
The wall said, "Technically, no. But you're also not rated for a latchkey yet, which means you can't leave without a qualified escort."
"A babysitter," Ajax grumbled. Once again, the wall didn't answer, and as the Portalry emptied of lunch seekers, Ajax finally dredged up some curiousity about the voice from the wall.
"What do I call you, talking wall?"
"My name is Kentigern."
"Kentigern. Right. Okay. Are you… a guy in a control room somewhere? A ghost? Or a Star Trek computer?"
"Can't I be all three?" Ajax wondered if he imagined the hint of amusement in the voice.
"Well, is this��� thing, this building, is it actually a spaceship? That sky out my window isn't on Earth, I know that."
"No, not a spaceship, just a tower. But you're not on Earth anymore. Well done."
Ajax glared at the nearest wall. "Where are we, then?"
"The dominant theory among the Readers—those are our researchers—is that the tower is on a semi-artificial planetoid, constructed by an alien species long before humanity discovered fire, and so far away from Earth's system as to be meaningless."
Ajax absorbed this. "Wow. What's it like outside? Is it all like the garden I saw from my room?"
Four motes of light from around the room converged on the wall closest to Ajax and formed the corners of a rectangle. An image formed, growing in clarity until it seemed like an open window. The landscape beyond had the same strange light quality seen from his window, an unmoving sun filtered by thick purple and yellow clouds. The ground was orange, with sparse yellow grass growing around a packed-down road. The road led toward trees—but strange, bubbling trees with rounded foliage, looming over blade-like ferns. Something moved in the undergrowth, reminding Ajax of the Awakened in the single glimpse he had before it vanished.
Leaning against the wall, he said, "I thought I was joining an army when I came here. Not signing up for… kindergarten." He looked out the window more, then said hopefully, "Maybe I could go out there?"
"If you really want to fight for your life, there are some rats in the storehouse level."
"Oh, fuck you," Ajax snapped, and pushed himself away from the wall. "I can't go outside, I can't go back to Earth. I really didn't expect to be a prisoner, you know?"
"Yes, you seem very angry about it."
"What's the worse that happened if you let me outside? I get killed? Who cares! Or maybe you open one of those portals, you let me out in England or something, I'm no longer a problem to anybody but myself."
"How nice." Kentigern sounded bored. "A tantrum from the kindergartener. Well, get it all out. Class resumes in 45 minutes. You have a lot to learn if you want to earn any responsibility."
Ajax knew he was acting like a brat and didn't care. "No way. If I see anymore grade schoolers declaiming Shakespeare, I may have to bash my skull in."
"Is that so? Then I think you'll like the afternoon session very much. Plenty of opportunity to get your skull bashed in and no rats required!"

Ajax Holdren didn't think his life could get much worse, until a pretty girl with a sword decided to fight a monster right outside his house. But it turns out the monster is after him, and she's what passes for a guardian angel.

They call themselves Nightlights, and they use the remains of alien technology-- and magical swords-- to fight the living darkness that preys on sentient life. They live in a tower discovered by humanity a thousand years ago via portals controlled by the tower itself. And the very best Nightlights are young adults. Most of them begin the training as children...

Once Ajax meets Natalie, he can't go back, can't pretend the monsters aren't there. The power awakened inside him-- and his own relentless need for a place-- drives him forward. But stepping through that portal takes him into a alien world, where the walls talk and the sun never shines, and humankind's worst enemy isn't the monsters who stalk the street but the people who make them.

--- On The Bridge ---

Tazuna arrived on the bridge as he was guarded by Naruto, Sasuke, Sakura and Kakashi. Upon their arrival, they noticed there was already a thick, heavy mist covering the surrounding area.

"Both Zabuza and Haku have already arrived," said Naruto silently.

"How do you know that?" asked Sasuke. After all, if Kakashi, a Jonin, could not sense their enemies in this thick mist, how can a Genin.

"I can sense their heat signatures," replied Naruto quietly.

"That's pretty amazing," commented Kakashi. "Your affinity to fire must be really high if you can do that."

"It's as high as the Second Hokage's affinity if not higher," said Naruto proudly.

"I though you had a high affinity to lightning," muttered Kakashi.

"Yes, lightning too. Although it's not as high as my fire affinity, it's not that far off," said Naruto, cocentrating on the two enemy's heat signature. "I can sense my opponent's bioelectricity that runs in their body, however, the range is smaller than sensing their heat signature."

"That already makes you a strong sensor, though not in the normal sense," said Kakashi.

The group continued walking until they stood a few meters away from their enemy.

Naruto quickly did some hand seals and unleashed a gust of wind, blowing away the mist that was covering the area.

"I really hate wind users," muttered Zabuza as he released a thick layer of Killing Intent.

Naruto and Kakashi appeared to be immune to the Killing Intent as Sasuke and Sakura were sweating hard. Tazuna was already panting heavily on the ground as his knees had already given out.

Naruto then quickly produced four clones and erected his barrier, protecting Sasuke, Sakura and Tazuna.

"Zabuza, Gatõ plans to betray you and have you killed off regardless should you succeed in killing Tazuna," said Naruto. "How about you join Konoha? We could use someone as strong as the two of you."

"Naruto, you can't just offer asylum to a Rogue Ninja," said Kakashi.

"Why not?" asked Naruto.

"What makes you think I want to join the Leaf?" askes Zabuza.

"Aren't you tired of always being on the run and scrounging around just to live, Zabuza?" asked Naruto. "Kakashi, both of these guys are super strong and you know why. They'll be of great help."

"I'll still fight you," said Zabuza. "I still habe a reputation to uphold, kid. Should Gatõ appear to finish me off, I'll consider joining the Leaf."

"That's fine by me!" said Naruto.

Haku immediately started going through hand seals and muttered: "Demonic Ice Mirrors!"

Naruto was immediately covered by ice mirrors that connected with each other and looked like an ice dome. Haku entered one of the mirrors and became nothing more than a reflection.

"Haku, you can't win against me in your current level," said Naruto, staring at Haku's reflection. "I know all about your Demonic Ice Mirrors."

"Stop bluffing," said Haku. "There's no way you can know about my mirrors."

"Information gathering is half of a Ninja's job, Haku," said Naruto, smirking. "Did you really think I was simply training over the past week?"

"That's not going to stop me from killing you," said Haku as every single mirror suddenly had Haku's reflection in it.

Naruto noticed that each Haku was holding metal needles in each hand and was about to attack.

Naruto suddenly shifted his weight as he quickly dodged a few metal needles that was about to hit him. He already knew from his spying on Haku that Haku's speed would be far greater than normal when he was inside his mirrors, but not by this much.

"You're the first person to dodge my attacks when trapped inside my mirrors," said Haku, looking at Naruto with a surprised expression.

Haku continued her relentless assault on Naruto, launching a multitude of metal needles at Naruto, while he was dodging every single one of them without even needing to use his Sharingan.

"HOW ARE YOU DODGING MY ATTACKS?!" roared Haku in frustration.

"You've never faced someone like me before, have you?" asked Naruto, his smirk growing wider. "I'll tell you if you can beat me."

Seconds trickled into minutes as Naruto continued to dodge the continues assault of the metal needles.

'This is a good way to train one's reflexes and concentration,' thought Naruto.

As this exchange went on, Naruto noticed Haku's speed slowing down. "This jutsu of yours is up too much chakra and you're already running low. How about we stop here?"

"SHUT UP!" roared Haku as he charged as fast as she could at Naruto.

Considering that Haku's chakra was already running low, his speed had dropped considerably compared to when the fight had first started. As Haku closed in, Naruto immediately extended a hand and grabbed Haku's wrist. He followed through with landing a solid punch on Haku's face, sending him crashing on one of the mirrors. Unable to the impact of the crash, the Ice Mirror shattered into pieces and Haku was sent flying away.

Having defeated his opponent, Naruto casually started walking towards where Kakashi and Zabuza were fighting off. Naruto secretly activated his Sharingan and watched the fight between the two Jonin level Ninjas.

Kakashi quickly did a few hand seals and said, "Chidori!" A large amount of Lightning Nature chakra gathered in Kakashi's hand and it produced a sound effect of a multitude of chirping birds.

'One Thousand Birds,' thought Naruto. 'Such a fitting name.'

Naruto glanced over to where Zabuza was standing and noticed him bleeding from both his hands.

"Kakashi, wait," said Naruto suddenly. "We have company."

"The brat managed to defeat Haku is no ordinary Genin," said Zabuza, watching Naruto walking up towards their battle. "He must be at least Jonin level to beat Haku without getting hurt."

"Look at that, the Demon Zabuza defeated by a some punks," said a voice coldly.

The group turned around and saw a man walking towards them with a large group of thugs behind him from the far side of the bridge.

"What are you doing here, Gatõ?" asked Zabuza distasteful.

"I'm here to finish you off, Zabuza," said Gatõ arrogantly. "You're simply way too expensive to hire."

"We are no longer enemies," said Zabuza to Kakashi before turning to Naruto. "You were right, kid."

Zabuza picked up his sword as he faced against Gatõ.

"Multi-Shadow Clone Jutsu," said Naruto as 50 clones appeared with puffs of smoke.

"Kid, how can you pull of so many Shadow Clones?" asked Zabuza in shock.

"I'm a chakra powerhouse," replied Naruto, chuckling. "I'll clear up the thugs. Have your way with Gatõ. I hate backstabbers.

Naruto's clones all rushed towards Gatõ's thugs and seconds later were all lying on the ground, unconscious. Zabuza rushed at a trembling Gatõ and brought his massive sword down, cutting Gatõ in half horizontally.

Naruto called off his clones as he lazily looked at everyone. His 4 clones that had erected the barrier around his teammates and Tazuna brought it down and everyone came together.

"So what now?" asked Zabuza.

"The offer still stands about the two of you joining our village," said Naruto. "We will leave as soon as Tazuna finishes the bridge."

"I don't know if the Hokage is going to agree, Naruto," said Kakashi.

"I'll take care of the Hokage," said Naruto with an evil smirk, causing a shiver to run through Kakashi's spine.

Zabuza pondered heavily about Naruto's proposal. He truly was tired of this life and if he went to the Leaf, at the very least he could at least sleep well at night and wouldn't be on the run.

"I'll go with you, I truly am tired of this life," said Zabuza.

--- A Few Days Later ---

With Naruto helping Tazuna with his Shadow Clones, the bridge was completed sooner than expected and the Country of Waves had started to recover. Naruto quickly became friends with Haku as both had suffered a lot during their childhood; Naruto for being a Jinchuriki and Haku for his bloodline.

Everyone had been recovering very well from their fight against each other. Naruto received pointers on his swordsmanship from Zabuza and both agreed to spar with each other occasionally.

When Team 7 alongside Zabuza and Haku were about to leave, everyone from the town had gathered up by the bridge to say goodbye to the Ninjas who ended Gatõ's tyranny; their heroes.

The bridge was named after Naruto - The Great Naruto Bridge - by Tsunami as she felt immense appreciation towards him for convincing Inari - the young boy Naruto had scolded - to fight for what he wants.

--- Hokage's Office One Day Later ---

Since the team was made up of only Ninja's only, their return Journey to Konoha was much faster. They were standing in front of the Hokage as Kakashi was giving a report of their successful mission. The Hokage looked up at the Rogue Ninja standing in front of him as he rubbed his temples.

"Naruto-kun, why do you like giving me more paperwork?" asked the Hokage.

"Come on, old man, I told you how to defeat the darn paperwork," said Naruto with a sigh. "Let them join the leaf."

Remembering how much easier his life had become with the usage of Shadow Clones, the Hokage quickly threw two headbands to Zabuza and Haku, causing everyone to be momentarily stunned.

"Sigh ... Zabuza, since you are a Rogue Ninja, you'll work on a probationary period," said the Hokage with a sigh. "As for you, Haku, you can join the next team of Genins when they graduate from the Academy."

"Actually, gramps, Haku has a very good knowledge of medical plants and poison," said Naruto, smiling. "He's also got Kage level chakra control making him very suitable to become a medic."

"How about it, Haku?" asked the Hokage, turning back to Haku. "Do you want to become a combat medic?"

"I would love to, Lord Hokage," said Haku politely.

"Everyone is dismissed," said the Hokage, creating 4 Shadow Clones to start doing his paperwork. "Naruro, how about Ramen?"

"Your treat, gramps," said Naruto as he took out a package. "By the way, I got you something. Take good care of it. It's limited edition."

The Hokage looked at Naruto who winked at him. The Hokage's eyes flashed as he immediately understood what the package was and quickly put it away, giggling.

--- Later That Day Hokage's Office ---

After having Ramen with the Hokage, Naruto went to his office with him and asked him to send away his Anbus for some privacy. He also put up a silencing barrier for added security.

"What is it, Naruto-kun?" asked the Hokage.

"Old man, where do you think this village is heading?" asked Naruto.

"What are you talking about?" asked the Hokage, in a serious tone.

"I'm talking about the direction of this village," replied Naruto.

"What brought this question, Naruto-kun?" asked the Hokage.

"Multiple things," replied Naruto, scratching his ear. "The quality of the Academy's curriculum and the changes that took place in my mission guarding Tazuna. It got bumped up to A-Rank from a C-Rank. That's a major increase. Stuff like this are bound to happen from time to time and we have very limited control over that. But what we do have control over is the quality of our Ninja's curriculum."

"What do you suggest, then?" asked the Hokage, stroking his beard.

"Before I make any suggestions, I want to share what I've witnessed," said Naruto, frowning. "There are definitely some Ninja's who are very talented and they are the ones who end up becoming Jonin level or above. But what about the rest? All those other Ninjas who are stuck being a Genin or a Chunin? When war hits, they're that first ones who get cut off. I've been observing everyone in the village in the last couple of years and the level of Konoha's Ninja's have been in decline. The village has become stagnant. The level of highly talented Ninjas is always limited. I don't know how we can continue claiming to be the strongest of the Elememtal Nations. So I will ask this again; what is the direction Konoha is heading towards?"

Naruto is beaten black and blue by a mob as a child and he awakens a mysterious entity that acts as his emotional support during his difficult childhood.

As he slowly gets stronger, he finds out about his heritage and vows to right all the wrongs done to him.

Accompany Naruto in his journey as becomes the strongest being in the world.

Note: I do not own Naruto nor any of the other worlds he will be travelling to as this is purely fan-fiction.

Ren Baqian looked at the iron mountain in front of him with doubt. Is this really natural?
Ren Baqian believed that this was an enormous remnant of a meteorite rather than a mine.
It was possible that the remnant of a meteorite crashed here a few billion years ago. After many years of transformation of the earth's crust, the gigantic basin became a plain. The remnant of the meteorite eventually turned into the current Mount Damo.
Ren Baqian felt that this explanation was more likely than the iron mountain forming naturally.
Otherwise, nothing seemed to make sense at all.
"Can you make a few holes here?" Ren Baqian asked Gu Qiong as he pointed to a rock above his head. "The holes must be fist-sized and half a meter deep."
Seven meters above Ren Baqian, there was a four-meter-long rock protruding outwards from the wall of the mountain.
It was very hard for one to mine from that area given its height.
However, if he could make a few small holes there and place explosives within them, he might able to blast a huge chunk of it off.
This was merely his conjecture, after all he wasn't an expert in demolition.
"Sir, even though I don't know what you're intending to do, it's impossible to make such huge and deep holes there. We can only make fist-sized holes at most. Anything deeper than that, we will have to resort to digging," Gu Qiong explained with a troubled look on his face.
Upon hearing these words, Ren Baqian furrowed his eyebrows. If what Gu Qiong said was true, explosives might not be very useful here.
If he was on Earth, he would have many solutions to deal with this situation. For example, he could use acetylene to cut it.
However, most of tools on Earth needed either electricity or gas tanks. For example, if he decided to use acetylene, he would have to bring one tank of it here. However, he could only bring one per trip. Furthermore, he had to bring it to this place directly. Otherwise, given the condition of Dayao's roads, it would explode on the road here.
In addition, if he really brought a tank of acetylene here, his secret would be exposed. This was unacceptable for him.
"Bring me to the vicinity of Mount Damo to take a look." After pondering over the issue for quite some time, Ren Baqian felt that he should take a look at the surroundings of Mount Damo first. Right now, there was still some time before the sky darkened. He should at least inspect the surroundings of the iron mountain first.
For the remaining part of the day, everyone rode around the foot of Mount Damo for some distance before going back. Ren Baqian realized this mountain was exactly what he expected it to be. It was an enormous remnant of a meteorite. That was because structure of this mountain was completely different from its surrounding terrain's. He noticed that all the ore veins were gathered at the top of the mountain. Furthermore, there were extremely little trees and plants on top of the mountain. Mainly, there were weeds and scrubs. The layer of soil which covered the surface of the mountain should be dust that was accumulated over the years.
"Sir Ren, do you have any ideas?" Tao Jiyuan furrowed his eyebrows as he asked Ren Baqian on the way back.
"Oh? I do have an idea, but I don't whether or not it will work. We have to give it a try first," Ren Baqian raised his head in shock and replied. His thought process was disrupted by Tao Jiyuan's question.
"That's great then. For so many years, countless people have come up with ways to increase the mining output for Mount Damo but failed. As such, we can only use manual labor to mine the iron bit by bit. If Sir Ren's idea works, you will do the nation a great service." A smile spread across Tao Jiyuan's face.
"I'd rather you go and snatch iron from other countries than mining them from this place," Gu Qiong grumbled on one side.
Ren Baqian rolled his eyes. Isn't this obvious? Snatching iron is of course more efficient than mining them. The issue is, is it that simple to do so?
By the time they reached their camp, the sky had already darkened. Those laborers swarmed back to the camp as well. They crowded around a few barrels in the middle of the plaza and waited for their meat soup. However, there were very few people talking to each other. They had spent many years like this. Extremely few new prisoners were sent here as well.
Ren Baqian could smell the fragrance of meat soup from a distance. "Nice food!"
"If they're not full, they won't have enough energy to work. After all, if you don't have enough energy, you won't be able to chisel a single piece of iron from this iron mountain."
Ren Baqian nodded his head.
Gu Qiong had already prepared a wooden house for Ren Baqian. His dinner was meat soup as well. However, his meat soup had been improved with some wild herbs and two dried rations. Even Gu Qiong had to also eat such food every day. After all, there were no towns or villages nearby. Other than the people that delivered meat and other rations, no one else came here. It was almost impossible to make other types of food.
After finishing his dinner, Ren Baqian immediately went to sleep. The next morning, after he woke up, he called Gu Qiong and Tao Jiyuan to his room. "I have an idea that we can try. Pile up a large amount of wood at Mount Damo and then burn it. Then, pour plenty of water over the fire. Things expand when it's hot and contract when it's cold. Cracks will start to appear on the metal surface and this will make the mining process slightly easier."
Even though this was Ren Baqian's idea, he wasn't too optimistic about it. It wasn't at all easy to heat up the iron mountain. Furthermore, metal was a good conductor of heat and the rock composition was very little. Even if a huge amount of wood was burned to heat up the iron mountain, only a few cracks would be produced on the iron surface.
Moreover, cutting down trees and transporting wood to this place will require a huge amount of manpower. This method wasn't that easy to implement. The efficiency of this method was too low.
Ren Baqian had another idea. He could return to Earth to make a huge number of mirrors and concave mirrors and bring them back here. Then, he would adjust the angles of the concave mirrors so that they would point at the wall of the mountain. Subsequently, he would use the mirrors to direct the sunlight to those concave mirrors.
This way, he could use the concave mirrors to focus the sunlight and melt the iron into molten iron within an extremely short period of time. This would make the extraction process of iron much easier.
"Things expand when it's hot and contract when it's cold? What does it mean?" Tao Jiyuan did not understand Ren Baqian's idea. However, he was very interested and curious about it.
"I can demonstrate it to you." Ren Baqian led both of them out of the wooden house.
"Start a fire first," Ren Baqian instructed. Gu Qiong immediately asked someone to get some wood.
After a while, a fire was started. Ren Baqian picked up two rocks and asked someone to hold them with two iron awls and heat them up with the fire.
The rest looked at him curiously, trying to figure out what was he doing.
When it was about time, Ren Baqian instructed the person to throw the rocks into a bucket of water that was prepared a while ago.
Immediately, traces of steam were released from the bucket of water. After a few minutes, Ren Baqian placed his hand into the bucket of water and scooped out the two rocks. There were a few cracks on the rocks.
Following which, Ren Baqian showed the rocks to everyone. Everyone, except Tao Jiyuan, did not discover anything unusual. A look of realization dawned upon Tao Jiyuan's face as he said, "I see."
This was a very common natural phenomenon. It wasn't that no one discovered it, but rather, no one pointed it out and explained what was going on. Therefore, they did not know the concept of thermal expansion. Certainly, no one had thought of using this concept on Mount Damo.
"What happened?" Tao Jiyuan asked curiously.
"An object will expand when you heat it up. Even if you can't see it, it is actually expanding. And after an object is cooled down, it will contract. If these two processes happen within a short period of time, this reaction will be produced. Not only will this reaction occur on rocks, but metal as well.
Ren Baqian gave Tao Jiyuan a rough explanation. If he talked about molecular theory, Tao Jiyuan would definitely not understand it.
A pensive look appeared on Tao Jiyuan's face. Meanwhile, Gu Qiong widened his eyes and asked, "Sir Ren, your idea is to burn Mount Damo?"
"We can just burn one part of it," Ren Baqian looked around and replied. The top of Mount Damo might not have much vegetation but its vicinity had a lot.
He could instruct Gu Qiong's men to cut some wood to burn a part of the mountain. Even though the efficiency was very low, he still wanted to give it a try. He could at least increase the speed of the extraction process of iron.
After he returned to Earth, he would do some research on how to make concave mirrors. By then, he could solve the iron extraction problem of Mount Damo once and for all.
It was a pity that he wouldn't be using the 40 kilograms of TNT he brought here.


In a world where its inhabitants can destroy a city wall single-handedly, the empress has a kirin as her pet, and the imperial palace of Great Xia has a pool containing a dragon. There is also a Sword Mountain where spirit swords occasionally leave in search of a master .

Bootlicking the empress, Ren Baqian ascended to the apex of life.　　

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