《Eyes of Chronos》


 Prologue.

    I have a childhood friend that I have never known.


    I have never seen his face.


    I have never heard him speak.


    I have never even touched him.The genuine version of this novel can be found on another site. Support the author by reading it there.


    Despite that, I know the adorable features of his face.


    I know the softness of his voice.


    I know the warmth in his palms.


    He does not exist.


    To be more precise, he exists only in my memory. It may seem that I am talking about the deceased, but that is not the case.


    He never existed from the beginning.


    He was a boy created only by my imagination. A boy that only I could see.


    Noah was... A drawing made by me.

 The beginning after the end

    NOAH GARDEN


    I was sitting in my office when I heard Alessia''s voice calling me.


    ¡ª Honey, are you there?


    ¡ª I''m in my office ¡ª I responded, and a few seconds later I saw her beautiful figure appear in the doorframe. As always, Alessia radiated beauty. I noticed her belly seemed even more rounded that morning.


    ¡ª Sorry to bother you, darling, but it''s your birthday and I have a surprise for you ¡ª she said with a mischievous smile.


    ¡ª A surprise? ¡ª I asked intriguingly. Alessia approached and sat on my legs, giving me a kiss on the cheek. A strong citrus aroma tickled my nose.


    ¡ª You''re heavy, you should stop eating so much, honey. You''re getting fat! ¡ª I joked, and she looked at me with mischief.


    ¡ª I was thinking this morning, you know? About the baby''s name... What do you think of Violet? ¡ª she asked while thoughtfully caressing her belly.


    ¡ª For a boy, it''s very ugly ¡ª I responded in a mocking tone.


    ¡ª If it''s a girl, my love! ¡ª she exclaimed laughing ¡ª I know we decided not to know the baby''s sex, but that doesn''t prevent us from finding a name. It''s coming soon, you know? Maximum three weeks.


    ¡ª Yes, it''s nice... Violet, ¡ª I admitted ¡ª I don''t want to ruin the atmosphere, but I would like to finish my chapter. I''ll take a maximum of 30 minutes.


    ¡ª No way! ¡ª Alessia protested ¡ª You''ll have to postpone your work until tomorrow. Besides, the doctor told you to rest your hand.


    ¡ª Listen, Ale ¡ª I tried to explain ¡ª I have to deliver this damn novel in just a month and I haven''t finished yet. I''ll meet you a little later, right now I have to...


    ¡ª You can do it, honey. You always do it, but not today! Tonight we''ll go to dinner! ¡ª she declared firmly.


    ¡ª Sorry, honey, but I don''t have much appetite ¡ª I weakly protested. Alessia gently placed her mouth on mine, ending the discussion.


    ¡ª I don''t remember asking for your opinion ¡ª she said with a smile ¡ª Besides, don''t they say appetite comes with eating? We''re going to dinner for your birthday and you must get ready. I have a reservation at 7 PM and it''s almost 5 PM and you''re dressed like a lumberjack. We''re half an hour away!


    Alessia stood up and walked towards the door while I protested: ¡ª A... lumberjack? I don''t have lumberjack clothes.


    She turned and looked at me with a compassionate smile. ¡ª It''s true! I can''t imagine you as such a dirty lumberjack. That''s not respectful to forestry work. I''m going to prepare you a bath.


    Already in the hallway, she yelled at me: ¡ª And shave that beard, it''s prickly!


    I sighed, resigned. ¡ª It seems we''ll have to postpone work until tomorrow...


    While I immersed myself in the hot bath Alessia had prepared for me, I felt my painful wrist slowly relaxing. I had been sharing my life with Alessia for 4 years, but we''ve known each other since childhood. I still vividly remembered our first exchange of glances, both sitting on the field grass. Her mischievous smile was forever etched in my memory.


    That smile that sparked hope, that smile that always said: ¡ª You and I, it''s possible ¡ª. I remembered our first kiss, her fruity aroma, the first time I admired her naked under the pale and delicate moonlight filtering discreetly through the windows of her room many years later.


    I had always lived with an apathetic and boring attitude, in a constant state of depression. I was never a good son, and now that my parents were gone, I felt deeply remorseful.


    The damage I had done... the people I had hurt and wounded, could not forgive me. The only thing I could do was give Alessia everything she deserved: a good, attentive, kind, and loving man, despite knowing myself that I was none of those things. It was a constant, almost Herculean effort on my part. Bad habits never completely disappeared, I was always prone to relapses, but I knew I had to do it.This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road. If you spot it on Amazon, please report it.


    The bad attitude was like ink spilled on an absorbent paper, spreading over my existence like a dark and sticky mask that agglomerated and extended until covering everything. Today I turned 25 and would be a father in a few days. This idea made me smile.


    Only now, I had realized that it is, neither more nor less, loneliness that drags us into the mud like a diabolical melody. Loneliness is the edge of the mud where any human being''s fall begins... Once in it, the quagmire begins to drag us towards greater depths...


    And one must understand it very well: loneliness does not mean being physically alone, it means lack of affection...


    One can create, meditate, plan and work while being corporally isolated and feel very happy, if deep inside one knows oneself loved by someone... even if that someone is not present...


    On the other hand, another person can find themselves surrounded by many people and feel mortally unhappy knowing themselves ignored. Loneliness leads to alcoholism, drugs, adultery, suicide...


    ¡ª Hurry up, honey! I don''t want to be late! ¡ª Alessia''s voice resonated from the ground floor, pulling me out of my reverie. I had been soaking in the hot water for a while.


    ¡ª I''m coming ¡ª I responded, getting out of the bath and quickly dressing.


    When I went down, I saw Alessia in a sumptuous red dress that perfectly adapted to the curve of her abdomen.


    ¡ª What do you think? ¡ª My mother gave it to me, it was a dress she used when she was pregnant with me.


    ¡ª You''re beautiful ¡ª I told her sincerely. From her small stature, Alessia stood on tiptoes and gave me a tender kiss on the cheek.


    ¡ª I''ll drive ¡ª she offered ¡ª With your tendonitis, it''s not prudent for you to do it.


    ¡ª It''s ridiculous, I can drive perfectly ¡ª I protested ¡ª I''ve never needed two hands to drive anyway.


    ¡ª Very well ¡ª she yielded ¡ª but be careful, my love.


    We left the house and got into the car. The winding road snaked between hills, and a dense fog slid over the road and stretched over the mountains. The sun was barely a lazy reddish light on the horizon. Out of the corner of my eye, I noticed Alessia was watching me smiling.


    ¡ª What makes you smile like that? ¡ª I asked, curious.


    ¡ª You''ve changed, Noah ¡ª she responded ¡ª It makes me happy to see you like this. And, besides, we''ll soon be three, that makes me happy. ¡ª I returned her smile, feeling a pleasant warmth in my chest.


    Darkness, first timid and fleeting between the hills, enveloped the road''s trees. Now impregnated with the opaque ink of the nascent twilight. Rain was suddenly falling in straight and silvery filaments, roaring over the car, suddenly drowned by the sound of the downpour.


    ¡ª It''s seven, we''re going to be late ¡ª Alessia commented, looking at her watch.


    ¡ª It doesn''t matter ¡ª I reassured her ¡ª They''re not going to cancel our reservation for just 15 minutes of delay.


    When turning a particularly tight curve, I distinguished pale lights approaching at full speed. Lights that seemed to zigzag dangerously. The dense fog was deceptive and the car I thought was at a good distance suddenly jumped from the darkness.


    ¡ª My God, it''s not in its lane ¡ª I muttered, feeling fear taking over me.


    I turned the steering wheel to the right. The other vehicle''s motor roared and coughed, approaching quickly, too quickly. As if time had been encrusted in a thick syrup, I slightly turned my head and saw, as if in slow motion, Alessia''s horrified face.


    ¡ª NO!


    ¡ª BOOOOOM!!


    I had very few memories of the moments following the impact. The horrifying noise of metal breaking, the sound of ambulance sirens, blood on my hands, the bone protruding from the torn flesh of my left leg.


    Alessia''s body lying on the ground... with blood coming out behind her head and her face, as if staring blankly behind me... Then, the crying and screaming.


    Finally, the deep silence... It was that day... On that isolated country road, when Alessia and our unborn child... died. Violet would never be born.


    A week later, they discharged me from the general hospital. Concussion, double leg fracture, and multiple injuries. Hospital staff handed me a small plastic bag with Alessia''s personal belongings.


    Her purse, a pack of mint gum, her car keys... And a small red gift. Inside the package was only a photograph. It was an ultrasound image. The features of a small baby were clearly distinguishable, there was a silver-toned inscription on the photo.


    Alessia, apparently, had decided to find out the baby''s sex and intended to tell me at the restaurant. Violet... She had my same nose.


    A large crowd was gathered in the church, dozens of people hugged me and offered their condolences. Alessia''s mother, with tears in her eyes, seemed paralyzed. She was giving me looks mixed with pain and resentment.


    I no longer felt anything. I learned that the person responsible for Alessia''s death was alive. After having been arrested several times for driving under the influence of alcohol, his driver''s license had been revoked. According to local newspapers, the 45-year-old man should spend some years behind bars. Some years in prison for having taken Alessia''s and our daughter''s lives.


    ...It was unfair.


    The return home after the funeral was atrociously lonely. The oppressive silence of the house was unbearable. I saw Alessia appearing in every corner, as if for a brief moment, for a second perhaps, I would forget that she would not return. She was everywhere, in the reflection of a mirror, in the creaking of the floor, in the moving shadow of a door pushed by the wind.


    In her perfume, evanescent but still present on the marital bed, wandering in the air like a final concert. At night, I observed my old revolver in an almost mystical silence. A Colt that had belonged to my grandfather and which he left me as an inheritance.


    While contemplating the cold metal gleaming in the dancing lights of the fire crackling in the fireplace, bitterness and sadness gradually transformed into hatred, and hatred into madness. A burning desire for revenge, which burned like embers, devoured my entrails.

 The beginning after the end (2)

    Wow, it''s been a while since I came here. I entered the flower shop with slow steps, inhaling the sweet and fresh aroma that flooded the place. A young employee, around her twenties, welcomed me with a kind smile.


    ¡ªHow are you?¡ª I asked, sketching a soft smile. I felt the corners of my lips trembling slightly while forcing the gesture.


    ¡ªI''m doing well¡ª she responded enthusiastically¡ª. People don''t look for flowers because their emotions are dry. By the way, what happened to you these days? We haven''t seen you around here for a long time.


    ¡ªI felt a pang in my chest at her innocent question. I swallowed, trying to undo the knot forming in my throat¡ª. It''s the same¡ª I responded with a broken voice¡ª. My emotions have been dry these days.


    ¡ªThe employee looked at me with curiosity¡ª. Uff! So, what excited you so much today that you bought all these flowers?


    ¡ªHer question caught me by surprise. I looked at the enormous bouquet I hold in my hands, as if seeing it for the first time. Why did I buy so many? The answer floats in my mind, but I refused to acknowledge it¡ª. Shouldn''t I buy them?¡ª I replied with a neutral voice.


    ¡ªWould you like to receive gypsophila this time too?¡ª asked the employee, pointing at the delicate white flowers.


    ¡ªYes¡ª I responded automatically. While she prepared the bouquet, my mind wandered. I remembered the first time I bought gypsophila. It was for Alessia, on our first anniversary. Her eyes sparkled when she saw the small flowers, like stars in a night sky¡ª. They''re perfect¡ª she had whispered, softly kissing me.


    I shook my head, trying to push away the memory. It hurts too much to think about those happy moments. I pay for the flowers and left the store, the weight of the bouquet in my arms a constant reminder of what I''ve lost.


    My feet automatically took me to the nearby supermarket. It was quite full, probably because it was dinner time. I headed to the meat counter, trying to ignore the curious looks from some customers seeing my enormous flower bouquet.


    ¡ªPlease, give me 150 grams of seaweed soup¡ª I asked the butcher.


    ¡ªHe nodded and started weighing the meat. While doing so, he looked at me with a sly smile¡ª. Yes! 150 grams of seaweed soup. Whose birthday is it? You even brought flowers.


    ¡ªHis question hit me like a punch in the stomach. I paused, feeling pain spreading through my chest. I forced a smile, although I knew it must look more like a grimace¡ª. Yes¡ª I responded with a hoarse voice¡ª. My beautiful wife has her birthday today.


    ¡ªHey! I''m jealous that your wife is beautiful¡ª the butcher joked¡ª. Alright, here''s the meat.


    ¡ªThank you¡ª I muttered, taking the package. I quickly left the supermarket, unable to bear more looks and questions. On the way home, I passed by a stuffed animal store and bought a teddy bear. Alessia always wanted to have one for our daughter...


    Arriving home, I opened the main door and entered. The living room was dark, all lights off. ¡ªI''m back¡ª I announced loudly, more out of habit than expecting an answer. The silence that received me was deafening.


    I left my coat on the sofa and placed the flowers I bought on the table. The teddy bear found its place on a nearby chair. I changed clothes mechanically, my mind on autopilot while performing these daily tasks.


    I started preparing dinner. The seaweed soup was gently boiling while I browsed a recipe brochure. The familiar aroma filled the kitchen, bringing with it an avalanche of memories. Alessia laughing while we tried cooking together for the first time, the pride on her face when we finally managed to make a decent soup...


    I shook my head, trying to push away those thoughts. I focused on setting the table, placing some side dishes from the refrigerator alongside the seaweed soup. I added some rice and the table was completely set.The story has been taken without consent; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.


    I looked at the table and my heart shrank. There were three soup and rice plates. Three, as if... As if they were here. As if they could join me in this lonely dinner.


    Throughout the meal, my gaze constantly directed to the other side of the table. There, on a shelf, was a framed photo. In it, Alessia and I smile, embraced. Her swollen belly was evident, our hands intertwined over it. In front of the photo, I had placed one of the flowers I bought today.


    ¡ªThis is the first time I''m doing it myself¡ª I murmured to the photo¡ª, but you know how you used to do it.


    I tried to eat, but each bite was an effort. The soup, which should have been comforting, tasted like ashes to me. I forced myself to swallow, spoonful after spoonful, but the action seemed almost impossible.


    ¡ªI''m sorry¡ª I whispered, feeling tears accumulating in my eyes¡ª. For not being able to be with you. It''s your birthday and I couldn''t make it more delicious.


    I abruptly stood up, unable to continue sitting in front of that empty table. My entire body felt heavy, my shoulders fallen under the weight of loss. Without bothering to clean the table, I went directly to the shower.


    Under the hot water stream, my thoughts ran uncontrollably. Why did I think today would be different? It was a special day, yes, but that only made the pain sharper.


    I thought I would feel a bit better, that I could honor her memory somehow. Instead, I felt more depressed than ever.


    I came out of the shower and changed clothes without completely drying myself. I entered my bedroom, where a bed too large for a single person awaited me. Next to it was a small desk.


    I sat and began drying my hair with a towel. On the desk was a thick notebook and a fine pen. Without hesitating, I opened the notebook.


    Approximately a third was already filled with tiny letters. It was my diary, which I had been filling every day since... since I lost them. I grabbed the pen and began writing on an empty page.


    ¡ª[December 17]


    My hand trembled slightly while writing the date. I paused, breathing deeply before continuing.


    [Happy birthday, Alessia]


    Once the first line was written, the following flowed more easily. It was always difficult to know how to start, but once I did, it was as if I were speaking directly to her.


    [Today I left work a little earlier than usual. I promised, right? On your birthday, I would definitely leave early and prepare a delicious seaweed soup.]


    I raised my head and looked at the photo on the desk. Alessia smiled, radiant in my arms. ¡ªIt''s the same photo as before¡ª I muttered, as if she could hear me.


    ¡ªWas the seaweed soup... tasty?¡ª I asked out loud before noting it in the notebook. There was no response, of course. There was no way she would return. She was no longer here. Neither she nor the beautiful daughter we could have had.


    I bit my lip hard, trying to contain the tears threatening to spill. If I didn''t, I felt I would break down crying at any moment.


    [I did what the book said, but it was strangely bland. I couldn''t eat it all and only half remained. By the way, the flowers I bought today...]


    I continued writing, narrating the day''s events as if telling Alessia and our daughter. I told them what I wanted to tell them, what I yearned to hear from them. Writing in my diary made me feel like we were together, at least for a moment. It was a routine I had maintained every day since I lost them.


    [I bought a teddy bear as a gift for Violet.]


    [Violet... What is she like? Do you like her?]


    My hands trembled more and more while writing. The letters became irregular, my vision blurred. I lowered my head, feeling as if I were containing a dam about to burst.


    I want to hear their answers¡ª I thought desperately¡ª. I want to hear their voices. I want to see their faces. I want...


    I clenched my teeth, fighting the knot in my throat. I tried not to cry, but it was useless.


    ¡ªI want... to see them. Please¡­¡ª I couldn''t contain it anymore. The truth was too painful to be transmitted any other way. It was so sad, so miserable, that I couldn''t even confirm what I was writing. I simply wrote it hoping that, somehow, somewhere, they could receive it.


    ¡ªI miss you...¡ª I murmured, and with those words, something inside me broke completely.


    A month had passed since I lost them. I thought I would improve little by little with time, but that wasn''t the case. Instead, as days passed, the longing accumulated like water in a dam about to collapse. And now, the tears I had been holding back for so long burst without control.


    [I miss you... I miss you.]


    I continued writing those words in my diary, unable to express anything else. I didn''t know how long I spent repeating the same phrase, but when I finally recovered my senses, an entire page was filled with those two words.


    I dried my tear-covered face with trembling hands. For the first time, I muttered to myself instead of writing, ¡ªActually... I''m a miserable bastard.


    I looked at the lines I had written and couldn''t help but laugh bitterly between tears. What expression would someone have if they saw me like this? Would they feel pity? Would they think I''m crazy?


    In any case, I knew that neither Alessia nor our daughter would want to see me like this. I tried to stop tormenting myself and finally went to bed, physically and emotionally exhausted.

 The light at the end of the tunnel

    Nothing happens suddenly. Those who lose their family, those who divorce, those who go to jail, those who are left alone and without affection cannot say ¡ªthis happened to me suddenly¡ª.


    We all have different pain thresholds. Some people, with a simple stomach infection, realize they need to change their eating habits, exercise, and lead a healthier life; a small stimulus is enough for them to reflect and change...


    Others, however, pay no attention to soft warnings and require being on the verge of death with acute cirrhosis or angina to say: "damn, now I really need to take care of myself..." It''s a matter of who one is... of how one reacts... We always have gradual warnings until we reach the pain threshold.


    There are people who react to the simple voice of their conscience or to reading a book, and there are others who turn a deaf ear to everything and only when they are sunk do they realize that it''s time to do something. I was one of those who didn''t move with a small stimulus; one of those who wait for greater warnings. The days passed, and the pain did not diminish.


    Upon waking the next morning, the bedroom was flooded with light. I got out of bed like a machine about to explode. Today was the day. Today is when that man will be tried and sentenced to prison.


    I look at the time: it''s 11:50. That man will be in front of the courthouse at 13:00. I had no time to waste. Today was the day when everything would end. I grabbed my gun and tucked it behind my pants. The house door was still open.


    I looked one last time at the house that Alessia and I built together. This house that once sheltered so much joy, so much hope, so many dreams... Now it was just a constant reminder of what I had lost.


    ¡ªThis is for you, Alessia ¡ªI murmured, gathering courage.


    The daylight burned cruelly in my eyes when I went out. I got into the car and started it. A few minutes later, I parked the old truck a few steps from the judicial building.


    Before getting out of the car, I observed the bustle near the courthouse for a moment. I saw passersby and onlookers mixed with some journalists. A mother was casually walking with a pink stroller, and through the car''s open window, I heard the cheerful laughter of a small baby. The sound went through me like a knife.


    I got out of the car, the gun firmly hidden behind my pants. The hot air was full of gas, dust, and asphalt smells. I advanced with difficulty towards the building, limping slightly. I stayed at a good distance so as not to draw attention and waited patiently for the hour when everything could finally end.


    It''s 12:54, just a few more minutes. I wiped the sweat dripping from my forehead, feeling a sticky humidity under my armpits. I noticed a young journalist looking at me curiously, and for a moment I feared being discovered. Suddenly, I heard the murmurs of the small crowd clustered in front of the building grow. I saw protesters waving signs and chanting slogans in unison.If you come across this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it.


    From a distance, I see him. That bastard who took everything from me, coming out of the justice palace accompanied by two police officers. I could see the gleam of the gun handles hanging on the two officers'' belts. It was too late to back out, it was too late the night that bastard came to tear away my reason for living, leaving only a breath laden with alcohol in his abominable wake.


    It was the moment, I advanced towards the center of the stairs. No one pays me attention, all the surveillance of the small group was now focused on the accused descending the stairs with a somber face. I carefully observed his fat and tired face. The man rested his eyes on me and looked at me curiously. When he came a few meters from me, I could see fear invade his gaze at the moment he managed to recognize me.


    I put my sweaty hand under my shirt and grabbed the hot butt of the pistol. With a quick movement, I pulled out the revolver and pointed it at Alessia''s murderer.


    I saw his surprised and scared face when he saw the bright barrel of the weapon, I fired a clumsy shot that managed to hit him in the knee. The police had already put their hands on their guns and were preparing to shoot.


    Screams of fear pierced the crowd like a wave crashing loudly against a concrete shore. With no more time to waste, my second bullet hit the bastard in the head. A stream of blood burst out behind his skull, and he immediately collapsed on the ground like a mass of lead. Just at that moment, I felt a burning impact in my chest. A bullet had gone through me, and I fell backwards onto the hard concrete.


    Blood flowed abundantly from my chest. The screams and tumult of the crowd gradually faded into a soft silence. Darkness enveloped me softly, like a mother''s embrace.


    A stream of blood came out of my trembling mouth as I exhaled my last breath.


    ¡ªForgive me... Alessia ¡ªI thought as life escaped me.


    Like a sequence of hallucinations, I heard Alessia''s soft and melodious laugh. I saw her very clearly, throwing water in my face while she laughed in the bathtub. The echo of her laughter resonated far away and shook my insides, like the last note of a melancholic symphony.


    Time stopped and the film of my life became the moving image of immobile eternity. I saw Alessia in front of me, smiling, in a beautiful ivory dress. I slid a ring on her finger in front of a full room, bathed in light.


    Then, I saw her haloed by a light glow, walking in a small forest, giving me tender looks. In an instant, she was in front of me with her beautiful face bathed in tears, holding a positive pregnancy test in her trembling hands.


    Now, Alessia was lying down, singing a lullaby to our unborn baby while I caressed her belly. As if my entire life was recorded in a fictional film, I watched, stunned, its final and grand reproduction.


    I relived my moments of joy, my sorrows, my mistakes, and the intense and magnificent moments of happiness, but also the small sweet things that filled our daily life.


    Suddenly, I felt my body rising softly, like a vapor escaping from boiling water. I saw my body collapsed on the ground, surrounded by a large pool of blood.


    I heard a small buzz and saw circular waves forming in the air. The waves gradually gathered at a single point before instantly transforming into a blue fragment.


    The fragment fell softly on my forehead like a lover''s kiss. Soon, the fragment slowly sank, as if submerging under water. Then, I found myself in front of an immense tunnel whose walls undulated as if under the effect of a breeze.


    I was dragged by an irresistible current, like a leaf floating in a fevered river, an intense and white light, whiter than a thousand suns, approached me with benevolence.

 The light at the end of the tunnel (2)

    Something had to be going wrong.


    The pressure suffocating me from all sides overwhelmed my senses. I thought my fat was melting, my muscles were tearing, and my bones were being crushed. The pain was indescribable, more intense than anything I had experienced before.


    My muscles seemed to be shredding and my bones were cracking under an invisible force. The tender flesh of my new body writhed with every movement, unable to protect me from the agony that enveloped me. I thought this must be how hell feels.


    Instinctively, I wanted to scream to release some of my suffering. But something stopped me, a liquid threatened to flood my lungs. I understood that screaming would not only endanger my own life. With great effort, I contained the scream that was struggling to escape my throat.


    Suddenly, I felt an unbearable pressure in my skull. It was as if they were crushing my head, extracting my brain through my nose and eyes. The pain was so intense that for a moment I considered wrapping the umbilical cord around my neck to end it all.


    It was then that I heard a soft cry, sounding like a woman. Wait, Umbilical cord? Cry? Only then did I realize my situation. I was being born, I was a baby. Curiously, the first thought that crossed my mind was not panic or disbelief. Instead, I found myself reflecting: So the light at the end of the tunnel is actually the light entering through the vagina...


    I couldn''t believe how painful birth was. Did all human beings have to go through this hell just to be born? It seemed incredible to me that humanity continued to reproduce in this way. The only reason I didn''t give up was because of my mother.


    I could feel the pain of childbirth not only in my own moans but also in the contractions of the uterine walls surrounding me. I was not alone in this struggle, my mother was with me. Through tears, the woman gathered her strength and the pressure threatening to crush me suddenly changed.


    In the decisive moment, I added my weak efforts to those of my mother, although they were the weak efforts of a baby. When finally my skull escaped the clutches of the birth canal, I let out the scream I had been holding back. The world became brighter and I could cry for the first time.


    Mom, I thank you with all my heart.


    When I opened my eyes again, the first thing I felt was a dazzling light. I squinted, uncomfortable, trying to focus my blurry vision. I saw a small arm moving by itself in front of me. It took me a moment to realize that this arm belonged to me, although I still didn''t feel it as mine.


    My body was out of my control, making only reflex movements in response to external stimuli. I remembered what modern science said in my previous world: this was due to the immature brain activity of a newborn. They were right, my brain had not yet fully matured.


    With effort, I directed my gaze towards the two figures observing me from above. My still-developing sight only captured blurry shadows of their faces. My hearing was not much better either. Gradually, my eyes became accustomed to the brightness. I distinguished a young platinum-haired woman leaning over me. Her beauty was so dazzling that I thought I was seeing a goddess.You might be reading a stolen copy. Visit Royal Road for the authentic version.


    The woman possessed an ethereal beauty that captivated all who set their eyes on her. Her hair, a cascade of flowing silver strands, shone like sunlight, framing a face that radiated warmth and grace. Her sparkling cerulean eyes contained a depth that seemed to whisper secrets of a thousand stories.


    Her features were delicate and perfectly proportioned, with high cheekbones that accentuated her flawless complexion. Her pink lips curved in a captivating smile, revealing a row of pearly white teeth that gleamed with a joyful expression.


    But what intrigued me most was that the woman did not seem completely human. Her ears were more pointed than normal, giving her a mysterious and exotic air. Next to her was a man of similar appearance, with long white hair and ruby-red eyes. He gave me a stiff smile that contrasted with his imposing appearance. His muscles were impressive, denoting great strength and power.


    The woman smiled tenderly and began to speak with the man while observing me with curiosity. I tried to understand what they were saying, but the sounds reached my immature ears distorted. The words were incomprehensible to me, which increased my confusion and frustration. Days passed slowly, a week after my birth, my senses began to develop gradually. My eyes could focus better and my ears captured more sounds, although I still did not understand the language.


    However, the life of a newborn was far from exciting. I spent most of the time lying in my crib, unable to move my body correctly. I felt incredibly bored and helpless.


    Obtaining information about my new world was an arduous task. I could not even clearly distinguish the passage of days and nights. The reason was simple: I slept almost all the time. A baby''s body was terribly inefficient.


    I struggled against constant sleep, but it was a lost battle. As soon as I opened my eyes, my eyelids would close again as if they weighed tons. And when I managed to stay awake for a few moments, hunger would immediately assault me.


    In my infant body, I could not endure hunger as before. There was no point in resisting. When the need became unbearable, I resorted to the only method I had at my disposal: crying at the top of my lungs.


    The pride and honor of my past life had no place in my new reality. In desperate times, desperate measures were required. Crying was the only way to communicate my needs and ensure my survival.


    ¡ªOh, it seems our baby is hungry again ¡ªsaid the silver-haired woman, approaching the crib.


    She took me in her arms gently and I stopped crying instantly. Once I had achieved my goal, there was no need to continue making an effort. Actually, crying was exhausting for me. If I was already hungry, crying would only make the situation worse.


    ¡ªJojo, I think you recognize mommy ¡ªsaid the woman with a radiant smile.


    A small smile formed on my lips when I heard the word "mommy". Hmph, of course I know. I can''t sleep all the time and I can''t move, but at least I''ve memorized mommy''s and daddy''s faces.


    The woman, who was looking at me with eyes full of love, smiled happily and softly opened her blouse. Gently, she brought her breast close to my mouth. The first time I experienced this, I felt embarrassed and uncomfortable, but now I found it natural. Without hesitation, I took my mother''s breast and began to suck eagerly.


    As the maternal milk warmed my entire body, flowing smoothly down my esophagus, I was invaded by a feeling of peace and well-being. Held in my mother''s soft arms, feeding from her breast, all complaints and frustrations vanished. Only positive thoughts filled my mind.


    It was a feeling of comfort and security that I had rarely experienced in my previous life. My eyes closed again, this time not from exhaustion but from pure satisfaction.

 Baby steps

    He had been born into a wealthy family, we lived in a small mansion in the countryside, far from the hustle and bustle of the modern urban life to which I was accustomed. The air was fresh and the green landscape extended as far as the eye could see.


    My room was simple yet cozy. It had a crib, a wardrobe, and a simple desk. Although it might seem somewhat austere, it was a space that conveyed calm and serenity. I understood that, being a baby''s room, it was better to keep it free of potentially dangerous objects.


    The floor was covered by a soft carpet that I yearned to touch. I wondered if it was made of animal hair or perhaps cotton. Since my world was limited to that small bed for now, I could not satisfy my curiosity.


    When the windows were occasionally opened, the sound of nearby trees whispering with the wind filled the room. A fresh and clean breeze entered, bringing with it the aromas of the nature surrounding the mansion.


    "I want to walk as soon as possible," I thought impatiently. "Even if there isn''t much to do, at least I''ll be able to explore a bit." I hated being forced to remain motionless, like in an unwanted paid vacation. Because of this, I tried to move my little hands and feet as much as I could, seeking to strengthen my muscles little by little.


    However, I was aware of my limitations. Since I still could not sit up by myself, I knew I would have to be patient. While reflecting on this, I heard footsteps and voices approaching from the other side of the door.


    I recognized my parents'' voices even before they opened the door and entered the room. The silver-haired woman, my mother, called me softly while carefully lifting me in her arms.


    Beside her was the white-haired man with red eyes, my father. His strong presence seemed to soften when looking at me. He was a very handsome man, just as his wife was beautiful. I could not help but think that I had been lucky with genetics in this new life.


    The man extended a hand and gently caressed my cheeks with his fingers. Although I could hear their voices, I still did not understand the words. Tenderly, the man kissed his wife on the forehead and murmured something in a low voice before extending his arms to take me.


    As he cradled me against his chest, a wave of heat ran through the man''s fingertips. I felt a strange sensation, as if an invisible energy flowed through me.


    Mom took me from dad''s arms and gently placed me in my crib. The man also bent down to kiss my forehead before following his wife out of the room.


    Left alone, I remained thoughtful, trying to process what I had just discovered. The sensation of energy flowing through me had been amazing. Could magic exist in this new world? The idea filled me with excitement and curiosity.


    That night, while the moon hung high in the sky projecting a silvery glow through the window, I slowly awakened. A deep longing to explore the realms of magic had awakened me from my sleep.


    I reflected for a moment, trying to remember the exact sensation. "Perhaps it''s something internal?" I reasoned. "I suppose it won''t hurt to try."


    With determination, I closed my eyes and concentrated intensely. I inhaled deeply, feeling the air fill my small lungs. I imagined that air spinning and dancing inside me, charged with magical energy.The narrative has been taken without permission. Report any sightings.


    I exhaled slowly, trying to release any distraction or doubt that might threaten to break my concentration. In my mind, I visualized a blank canvas, ready to be painted with the vibrant colors of magic.


    Several minutes passed without anything happening. I opened my eyes, the frustration evident on my infant face. "What am I doing wrong?" I asked myself. Throughout the night, I continued trying without success, determined to decipher the enigma of magic.


    As dawn approached, I realized my infant body needed rest. Frustrated but not defeated, I allowed myself to fall into a light sleep, promising myself that I would continue trying as soon as I had the opportunity.


    Days turned into weeks, and I noticed gradual changes in my senses. One day I realized that I heard my mother Adelaide''s voice with more clarity than before. The contours of objects in my visual field became sharper, although they were still far from being perfectly defined. During the day, I behaved like the baby I was supposed to be: crying when hungry, sleeping at regular intervals, and enjoying my parents'' caresses.


    My body had grown a bit, but my speaking ability remained limited. No matter how much I tried, I could only pronounce simple sounds like "ah", "uh", and "oh". The frustration of not being able to express myself as I wanted was immense.


    One morning, I heard a noise coming from outside. Instinctively, I directed my gaze towards Adelaide, who was watching me with maternal love. A smile formed naturally on my lips, using my facial muscles with more control than I had had until then.


    ¡ª You smile every time you see me, ¡ª said Adelaide sweetly¡ª. Did you like it so much? Am I so beautiful?


    Yes, you are. I love you so much, I wished I could tell her. Instead of words, I could only emit a kind of melody with my lips.


    ¡ª My little one, are you singing? ¡ª Adelaide seemed delighted with the sounds I was making.


    I felt satisfied seeing my mother enjoying my communication attempts. I wanted to show her how much I loved her, even if through such simple ways.


    ¡ª I know you came out of me, but you are too cute, ¡ª continued Adelaide, bringing her face close to mine¡ª. Who is so pretty? Yes, you are.


    Instead of kissing my lips or cheeks, Adelaide found my little toes peeking out from under the blanket. She kissed them several times, tickling me. Then, naturally, she lifted her shirt and took me in her arms.


    I began to suckle Adelaide''s breast eagerly. My taste buds were working better than before, as were my eyes and ears. I could fully taste the milk with a subtle coconut touch. Adelaide looked at me with eyes full of love while feeding me.


    When I was satisfied, my lips continued moving by instinct, although I was no longer swallowing. Adelaide knew that this sucking reflex would gradually disappear as I grew.


    ¡ª Baby, grow healthy and strong,¡ª whispered Adelaide while holding me against her chest¡ª. I love you so much.


    Unable to respond with words, I tried to convey all my love through my gaze. "I love you too, mom," I thought with all my heart, hoping that somehow she could feel my feelings.


    The days passed with a similar routine. I alternated between sleeping, eating, and observing the world around me with growing curiosity. Each day I noticed small advances in my abilities: my movements became more coordinated, my vision sharper, my hearing more acute.


    One afternoon, while Adelaide gently rocked me in her arms, I heard voices approaching the room. I recognized Atlas''s deep voice mixed with another female voice I had not heard before. The door opened, revealing my parents accompanied by a young woman.


    ¡ª Look who has come to meet you, little one, ¡ª said Adelaide enthusiastically¡ª. This is your older sister, Anastasia.


    I observed the newcomer attentively. Anastasia was a younger version of Adelaide, with the same silver hair and ruby-colored eyes like Atlas. However, there was an air of seriousness on her face that contrasted with my mother''s constant warmth.


    Anastasia approached the crib and looked at me with a mixture of curiosity and something that seemed almost... resentment? I couldn''t be sure, but the way my sister studied me made me feel like I was under scrutiny.


    ¡ª He is... small, ¡ª Anastasia finally commented, her voice lacking the emotion I would have expected from an older sister meeting her new brother.


    ¡ª All babies are, darling, ¡ª responded Adelaide with a soft laugh¡ª. You were also this small once.


    Atlas placed a hand on Anastasia''s shoulder. ¡ª Your brother will grow quickly. Before you know it, you''ll be teaching him all kinds of things.


    Anastasia nodded, and before I could hear more, I felt a wave of tiredness taking over me. My eyelids began to close against my will.

 Baby steps (2)

    I no longer worried about the passage of time; I had come to the conclusion that it was useless to obsess over something I could not understand. Sooner or later, I would discover it. For now, I was content to feel how my body grew day by day and how boredom was gradually being alleviated. Although walking was still difficult for me, I could not help but fantasize about the day when my wrists and ankles would finally obey my orders. Without realizing it, a smile of satisfaction was drawn on my face.


    As days passed, I felt increasingly comfortable in my new body. The joy I experienced at being able to move by myself, even if only by crawling, was indescribable. My parents shared that happiness, practically jumping with excitement every time I achieved a new milestone in my development.


    The day I pronounced my first word remained etched in my memory. After much practicing in secret, I finally dared to open my mouth and say:


    ¡ª...Mom.


    It was a word I had stopped using in my previous life, and for a moment I wondered if I should feel uncomfortable pronouncing it. However, upon seeing Adelaide''s face, I knew it had been worth overcoming that discomfort. I wanted to call her that; I wanted her to hear me.


    Adelaide''s reaction was even more emotional than when I first crawled. Her smile was radiant, and even Atlas, who was usually more reserved, showed overflowing joy. For me, recognizing my mother was the first step to fully embracing this new life.


    Thanks to Adelaide and Atlas''s dedication, constantly talking to me, I gradually assimilated the language. Atlas had even decorated the room''s wall with a letter mural, perhaps intending for the letters'' shape to make a good impression on me, similar to the belief that listening to classical music benefits babies in the womb.


    I enormously enjoyed these learning moments. With a mischievous smile, I would point to a letter and ask, ¡ªWhat is... this?


    Adelaide, delighted with my curiosity, would hurry to explain. The happiness was mutual: I was glad to learn and Adelaide to teach. ¡ªAtlas! Ars is amazing!


    ¡ªYou''re right. Ars is... ¡ªAtlas would respond, although I still did not understand all the words, I recognized my name.


    "Ars," Was this my full name or a nickname? In any case, I liked how it sounded.


    I felt immensely fortunate to be able to experience my family''s unconditional love from such an early age. I thoroughly enjoyed my new life as a baby, despite the less glamorous aspects like the lack of control over my bladder and intestines. All I had to do was cry for my parents to rush to change my diaper, and although I was embarrassed to admit it, I enjoyed those caresses.


    I had no worries. My life was easy and filled with the love my parents showered upon me. However, as soon as I could crawl, I began exploring my surroundings, eager to better understand the type of home I lived in.


    One day, taking advantage of a moment when no one was watching me, I ventured down the hallway, rolling over the wide red carpet. From my low perspective, everything seemed enormous and mysterious. Every time I approached a door and someone came out, they quickly returned me to my crib, but that did not discourage my curiosity.


    I continued my exploration, passing through a room being cleaned and reaching another door slightly ajar. Upon peering in, I saw a practically empty room with only a chair and a desk. The loneliness emanating from that space intrigued me, but I decided to move forward.


    The next stop on my tour revealed that I was on the second floor of the house. Upon reaching the descending stairs, I stopped, aware of the danger they represented for my small body.


    Turning toward the adjacent room, I discovered what seemed to be a study. An elegant desk dominated the space, flanked by shelves filled with carefully ordered books. Although the curiosity about those tomes gnawed at me, I knew I could not yet reach them, not even using a small chair.If you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.


    Well, let''s go to the next room, I thought, ready to continue my adventure. Suddenly, the sound of a voice and approaching footsteps put me on alert. Before I could decide what to do, a young woman appeared climbing the stairs. Unlike Adelaide, she did not have pointed ears, which indicated she was human. I supposed she must be a servant.


    The young woman, surprised to find me so far from my crib, exclaimed:


    ¡ªHow did you end up in a place like this? It''s still too early for you to be crawling.


    I remained silent, observing her with curiosity.


    ¡ª...How the hell did you do it? ¡ªthe young woman muttered, more to herself than to me, while picking me up to return me to my room.


    As time passed, I began to feel increasingly frustrated with the limitations of my infant body. It was difficult to accept that I could not do things I was actually capable of doing. Because of this, I began to sleep during the day and take advantage of the nights to practice in secret.


    Although I was not sure what was considered normal for a baby in this world, I did not want to draw too much attention. So, when everyone slept, I would stealthily leave my crib and move with the agility of a cat. The first thing I would do was change my diaper.


    I perfectly understood why babies cry when they have a wet diaper, and that damp sensation tremendously bothered me. Despite having grown enough to stand by myself, my little bladder remained a challenge. Even after Adelaide changed me before sleeping, my diaper would be wet again.


    Carefully, I would dispose of the dirty diaper, throwing it precisely in the basket meant for it. Then, I would head to the corner where my parents had stacked the blankets, a place I had mentally marked as safe for my night practices.


    Seeing a ten-month-old baby changing his diaper and practicing his first steps in the middle of the night, when everyone slept, would have been a disturbing scene for any casual observer. But I did not worry about that; I had a clear objective and was determined to achieve it. With patience and perseverance, I repeated my movements over and over, paying no attention to the passage of time. I would only stop when my small infant body reached the limit of exhaustion.


    Panting, I observe the room around me. From this new perspective, everything seemed different. The furniture rose like skyscrapers, and shadows extended forming dark valleys between them.


    ¡ªOne step at a time ¡ªI reminded myself.


    Cautiously, I got on all fours. This position was more familiar to me; I had spent the last few weeks exploring the room this way under my parents'' or sister''s watchful gaze. But tonight I was not here to crawl. Tonight I was going to walk.


    Slowly, I began to move one of my legs, trying to place my foot flat on the floor. My muscles trembled from the fear of falling again. After several attempts, I managed to place one foot firmly on the floor.


    Very well, now the other. With great effort, I managed to place my other foot on the floor. Now I was squatting, my small hands still supported on the carpet to maintain balance. I could feel my legs trembling, unaccustomed to supporting my weight this way.


    Here we go, it''s time to stand up.


    Slowly, centimeter by centimeter, I began to straighten my legs. I could feel my body swaying dangerously, threatening to fall at any moment. With determination rivaling anything I had felt in my previous life, I continued pushing. My legs stretched more and more until finally...


    I was standing.


    For a brief moment, I felt euphoric. I had done it, I was standing for the first time in this new life. But my celebration was premature.


    As soon as I let go of the carpet, my body began to stagger. The world around me seemed to spin and undulate. I waved my arms frantically, trying to maintain balance, but it was in vain.


    With a stifled cry, I fell backward, landing with a dull sound on my rear, cushioned by the diaper. The impact was less painful this time, dampened by the thick diaper, but the frustration was overwhelming.


    I felt tears beginning to form in my eyes. I tried to contain myself, but that was not something a baby could easily do. A soft, broken cry escaped my lips. It was not the inconsolable cry of a scared baby, but the silent cry of a frustrated adult trapped in a child''s body.


    Why is it so difficult?, I thought between tears. I used to be able to run marathons, and now I cannot even stand for a second. But even as I cried, a part of me refused to give up. I had faced much harder challenges in my previous life; this was just another obstacle to overcome. Wiping my tears with my small hands, I took a deep, trembling breath. "It''s okay, one more time. I can do it."


    I began the process again. I got on all fours, then squatted, and finally, with a titanic effort, managed to stand up again. I straightened my posture and carefully balanced myself with arms extended as if on a tightrope. Slowly, very slowly, I lowered my foot.


    Finally, I took a step. My heart was beating strongly in my chest; I had done it. I had taken my first step. Now, only thousands more remained. Two steps.


    However, after the first step, I lost my balance and fell, waving my arms, almost touching the blankets. That day, I could not walk more, so I dragged myself to my crib, climbed up, and prepared to sleep, exhausted but satisfied with my progress.

 Family

    Days passed and I kept growing. My small stomach would fill and digest quickly, which meant I was constantly hungry. I decided it was better to follow my instincts without restraining myself during this short stage of my childhood, especially when it came to eating and sleeping.


    As I grew, my parents seemed increasingly excited. I couldn''t help wondering if all parents were like this or if there was something special about me. However, I decided not to overthink the matter and simply enjoy the love and attention I was receiving.


    As days went by, I noticed my parents began to speak more openly about me in my presence. Perhaps they thought I couldn''t understand them yet, but I absorbed every word, trying to comprehend more about my situation and this world.


    ¡ªAtlas, have you noticed how he looks at us? It''s like he truly understands everything we''re saying.


    ¡ªI know, sometimes I feel there''s an adult mind behind those baby eyes.


    Their words surprised me. Were they suspecting something? I decided to be even more careful in my actions, trying to maintain the facade of a normal baby.


    However, my curiosity about the world around me continued to grow. Every time my parents took me out of the room, I observed everything attentively, trying to absorb every detail.


    The hallway walls were decorated with paintings and tapestries unlike anything I had seen in my previous life. That morning, I woke up in my crib, feeling a ravenous hunger that made me start to squirm. It wasn''t long before my mother, Adelaide, approached and looked at me tenderly.


    ¡ªMy little one, are you very hungry? ¡ªshe asked sweetly while taking me in her arms.


    I felt my mother settling to feed me. At eight months old, I already knew this routine well. I lay back on the soft white blanket and began to suck eagerly. The flavor was delicious and comforting, causing my tiny feet to stretch and curl in satisfaction.


    My mother, who already knew my gestures well, smiled softly seeing that signal of my enjoyment. Gently, she tickled my feet, causing me to wave them in the air. I couldn''t contain my reaction to the contact.


    In the blink of an eye, my tiny stomach was full. I felt my baby body visibly relaxing. Adelaide hugged me affectionately and gave me soft pats on the back. I rested my cheek on her shoulder, feeling an incomparable warmth and security.


    ¡ªMy little one, aren''t you eating too much? ¡ªmy mother joked with a little laugh.


    Her words seemed so funny to me that I couldn''t help joining her laughter with an infantile chirp. While enjoying these moments of intimacy with my mother, I reflected on my situation. I had lived a previous life irreparably indistinct and blurry, I had died, and my consciousness had fallen into a kind of nebulous limbo from which I could not escape.If you find this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the infringement.


    When I awakened in this new world, I initially suspected it might be a divine punishment. But I quickly realized this was not a punishment at all. Although I didn''t know exactly where I was, nor what was happening, nor why I was here or who had brought me, I felt profound gratitude.


    I was certain this was an act of grace. An impressive and wonderful grace. By the kindness of some superior force, I had been returned what I had uselessly discarded in my previous life.


    Without any tangible evidence, I firmly believed this was a warm and joyful gift. The name I had before dying had been swallowed by oblivion. Now, I had a new name, a new beginning. Far from my past, my mistakes, and my guilt...


    This tiny body was mine now, and the name of this small body was Arceus.


    The body and name that at first felt like they belonged to someone else suddenly seemed to fit perfectly, as if this was what I had always been destined to be.


    ¡ªAh... Ah... ¡ªI tried to speak, my voice broken by emotion. I didn''t care that tears began to flow; I forced my immature vocal cords to make some sound, any sound that could express the intensity of my feelings.


    I made a solemn promise to myself: this time, I was going to do it right. While my mother rocked me in her arms, I burned with determination. Nothing made sense to me yet, neither why I had been born here nor what my purpose was in this new world. But I knew I had enough time to understand all those things.


    I had already had enough of being stuck, of yielding to adversity and hugging my own knees in defeat. I didn''t care if I failed, I didn''t care if I stumbled. I didn''t care how many obstacles I would have to face.


    This time... This time, I was going to live fully. I was going to seize every moment in this world!


    I screamed my resolution with the sob that only a baby could make, a cry that mixed joy, determination, and a touch of fear of the unknown.


    Adelaide, sensing the intensity of my emotions, hugged me tighter, murmuring words of comfort and love. She couldn''t know the thoughts racing through my mind, but she intuited that something important was happening inside me. ¡ªIt''s okay, my love ¡ªshe whispered, gently caressing my back¡ª. Mommy is here. I''ll always be here for you.


    I clung to my mother, letting my tears flow freely. At that moment, I felt that all the fears and doubts I had accumulated since my rebirth dissolved in the warmth of her embrace. As I calmed down, I began to observe the room with new eyes. The colors seemed more vivid, the sounds clearer. Every detail of the world around me took on a new meaning.


    The sunlight filtering through the window, creating dancing patterns on the floor. The soft tick-tock of the clock on the wall, marking the passage of time in this new life. The comforting scent of my mother, mixed with the clean smell of freshly washed sheets. All of this, I thought, was part of my new world. A world I was eager to explore, to understand, to experience in its fullness.


    While Adelaide rocked me softly, humming a lullaby I was beginning to recognize as my favorite, I felt a wave of peace invade me. The exhaustion from my night practice and the emotional intensity of the moment were beginning to take their toll. My eyelids became heavy, and I struggled to keep my eyes open. I didn''t want to miss a single second of this new reality unfolding before me. But sleep was relentless, and little by little, I was sinking into a sweet drowsiness.


    Before falling completely asleep, I had one last conscious thought: ?Thank you?. I didn''t know exactly to whom or what I was grateful. Perhaps to the universe, perhaps to some higher power, or perhaps simply to life itself for this second chance.


    With a small smile on my lips, I surrendered to sleep, secure in my mother''s arms and full of hope for the future awaiting me.

 Family (2)

    ADELAIDE STARLIGHT.


    Arceus was sitting in front of the main entrance, hugging a teddy bear while staring fixedly at the door.


    Although he won''t stay like this all day, he''ll wake up from his afternoon nap and remain in his place when it''s time to play with his toys.


    ¡ªArceus ¡ªI called him softly.


    A pair of blue eyes turned and looked at me.


    ¡ªDad will arrive soon. Do you want to go out and wait for him? ¡ªI asked.


    My baby''s expression lit up as I lifted him in my arms. I opened the mansion''s doors and went out.


    What I found was a completely white world. It was snowing.


    ¡ªVery soon? ¡ªit was then that Arceus carefully opened his mouth to speak.


    ¡ªDad will return soon. With Anastasia ¡ªI explained.


    Arceus nodded and shortly we could see Atlas and Anastasia walking from far away.


    ¡ªDarling...! ¡ªI waved my hand joyfully.


    ?Look how cute Arceus is imitating me!?, I thought when I saw him also waving his hand.


    ¡ªWhy are you outside? It''s snowing ¡ªAtlas asked me.


    ¡ªArceus really wanted to see Dad, see? ¡ªI responded.


    Atlas approached and knelt down to look at Arceus, who was being embraced by me. Arceus looked at me before carefully extending his arms towards Atlas, who then lifted the child and hugged him.Enjoying the story? Show your support by reading it on the official site.


    When Atlas hugged him, Arceus became nervous. He had been smiling when he was further away, but now he was frozen while burying his head in his chest and hiding there.


    ?What a shy and cute child!?, I said to myself, smiling.


    Some time later, we entered the mansion. Anastasia greeted me warmly and went to her room.


    She was so tired after having gone to school for the first time. I could understand her.


    Meanwhile, I saw Arceus point to a specific place with his finger.


    ¡ªWhat is it? ¡ªAtlas asked, hugging him and walking towards where he was pointing.


    On the other side of the hallway, there was a drawing notebook placed under the thick cushion of the sofa where Atlas always spent time lying down.


    Arceus carefully held the drawing notebook, with an extremely nervous expression.


    Atlas received it silently and opened it, expecting to see a typical child''s scribble.


    After all, a child was still a child.


    Inside the irregularly drawn frame, several characters could be observed, differentiated by the color of their hair.


    ?Oh, look!?. There I was with my soft smile, and Anastasia was smiling brightly while making faces.


    The question was the identity of the man wearing a crown on his large head, standing in the middle. The man was smiling and there was a gem on the crown above his head; it was evident that he had taken more time and effort compared to the other drawings.


    ¡ªWho is he? ¡ªAtlas asked Arceus.


    When Atlas leaned in and asked Arceus, he trembled in surprise and avoided eye contact.


    ¡ªI think it''s you, darling ¡ªI said to Atlas.


    ¡ªThis one? ¡ªhe asked doubtfully.


    ¡ªYou''re hugging Arceus ¡ªI clarified.


    Upon hearing my words, Atlas looked at the drawing again.


    What seemed to be something white was actually the back of his head, drawn by Arceus.


    Sketching a vague smile, Atlas hugged Arceus in the same posture as in the drawing and only then did Arceus return the hug with an embarrassed smile.


    Thinking about it, it seemed my husband had been quite negligent with the child.


    ¡ªShould we go somewhere for the weekend, for two days? ¡ªAtlas asked me.


    ¡ªAh, that''s a good idea. I''m in ¡ªI responded without hesitation.


    He nodded and headed to Anastasia''s room to call her.


    At that moment, I looked out the window.


    It was curious, as if the previous fall had been an illusion, the snow had stopped falling a long time ago.

 Traces of a distant past

    Dawn timidly peeked over the horizon when I began to stir in my crib. My tiny fists opened and closed while my face contorted in a grimace of discomfort. Something was wrong with me, my complexion had acquired a pale and sickly tone.


    A moan escaped my lips while thick drops of sweat pearled on my forehead. My little head moved from side to side on the pillow, as if trying to escape some terrifying vision.


    Suddenly, my eyes opened with a jolt.


    Darkness completely enveloped me, a blackness so dense and absolute that it seemed to have its own substance. My eyes strained to distinguish any shape, any contour, but it was useless. Everything around me was a black and impenetrable void.


    I blinked several times, thinking that perhaps something was wrong with my vision. But not even by closing my eyes tightly and opening them again could I dispel that oppressive darkness. It was as if I had been swallowed by the jaws of some colossal beast and was now trapped in its entrails.


    Total darkness invaded me, surrounding me completely. I was in a place devoid of all light, where not even the slightest ray could filter through. I tried to move my limbs, but I felt as if I were bound by heavy invisible chains.


    My body did not respond to my commands. There was no strength in my hands or feet. My entire being felt defenseless and vulnerable. The only thing I could move were my eyelids; the rest of my body remained completely immobile, beyond my control.


    I could not be sure, for I could not even recognize my own limbs in that absolute blackness, but instinctively I realized that there was nothing wrong with my eyes. If I had gone blind, I would have felt some kind of pain or discomfort, but my senses seemed to function normally.


    That meant the problem was not in my vision, but in the place where I was. A completely dark place, impenetrable to any type of light.


    "Underground?", the possibility crossed my mind. I had never heard of a building constructed by man that could block light so perfectly. If that were the case, then there was a high probability that the space I was in was beneath the earth, in some type of basement or hermetically sealed enclosure where light could not reach me.


    Why was this happening to me? Slowly, I began to delve into my memory.


    Who was I? And why was I in this situation?


    My head throbbed painfully as I tried to refresh my memories. I could not think clearly, as if someone had struck my brain with a mallet.


    Soon, tears began to flow from my eyes. The pain was unbearable, as if someone had stuck a finger in my head and was twisting it mercilessly. I swallowed the scream that was struggling to escape my throat. Despite the suffering, I did not stop striving to remember. And then, little by little, the fragments of my memory began to fit together.


    My name is Noah and I am ten years old... I turned the steering wheel to the left and died in a car accident where my wife and unborn daughter were. And then... I was reborn in another world.This story has been unlawfully obtained without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon.


    I frowned once more. The pain hit me like a tsunami, threatening to drag me into the depths of oblivion. But I forced myself to keep thinking and, as a result of my tenacity, I managed to remember with total clarity who I was. Now was the time to find out why and how I had ended up in this place.


    The image of a man appeared in my mind. I remembered the individual who was etched in my last memory. A middle-aged man with a simple face but a penetrating gaze that did not match his common appearance.


    The man I had encountered while begging had told me: "You look quite good". Those were the last words I heard before losing consciousness and waking up in that absolute darkness. That man from my memories must have something to do with my current situation, with the fact that I had been left alone in a space where not a single ray of light entered.


    I did not know the name or identity of the man. I did not even know why he had brought me to this place. It could not be out of resentment; there was no way that an orphan simply wandering aimlessly could be the target of such deep resentment that someone would do something like this.


    There must be some kind of purpose, an objective, I reflected. If the intention had been to kill me, they would have already done so. They would not have bothered to lock me up without taking my life. So obviously they must have some need or purpose for me.


    My head hurt as if it were about to split in two. Trying to think deeply about my abnormal state had already consumed a great deal of mental energy.


    I closed my eyes, although there was no difference between having them open or closed. I wondered what the point was of closing my eyes when everything around me remained plunged in the most absolute darkness.


    Still, keeping my eyes closed was less painful than having them open. I did not know how much time had passed since I woke up in that place. The boundaries between sanity and madness were becoming increasingly blurred.


    My mind was chaos, but I fought with all my might to maintain clarity of thought. After what seemed like an eternity, my mind began to clear, as if my efforts had borne fruit.


    ¡ªHuh! ¡ª I was surprised by the involuntary sigh that escaped me. The last time I had tried to make a sound, I had not even managed to breathe with difficulty. Now I could take air and exhale it, though in a choppy manner.


    Being able to breathe more deeply was a clear sign that bodily functions were gradually returning to normal. Perhaps it was just an illusion, but I decided to cling to that positive thought.


    It was painful to be alone in the darkness without a single light. The absolute blackness made my mind wander uncontrollably. Thoughts flowed like an unstoppable tide, threatening to drag me into madness. The number of ideas crossing my head was enough to drive anyone crazy.


    And even more so for me, who could not move. The feeling of isolation, as if I were completely alone in the darkness of the beginning of time, was corroding my mind little by little.


    If time continued to pass in that way, it was clear that I would end up losing my reason, trapped in the labyrinth of my own thoughts. That is why I strained to the maximum to think positively and keep my mind as clear as possible.


    Amidst the whirlwind of ideas that assailed me, I tried to concentrate solely on those related to my identity. The only way to maintain sanity in the face of that avalanche of thoughts was to cling with all my might to who I really was.


    I did not know how much time had passed since I woke up in that place. It could have been just a few hours, or perhaps entire weeks. It was impossible to understand the flow of time in the midst of such profound darkness.


    Moreover, my entire body was paralyzed. All my bodily functions seemed to have fallen to the lowest possible level. I could barely maintain my breathing, while the rest of my vital functions remained practically stopped.


    That is why I could not even feel hungry. It was like being dead in life, trapped in a limbo between existence and nothingness. That was the most terrifying moment of all. To overcome the fear that threatened to consume me, I murmured ceaselessly, ¡ªMy name is Noah ¡ªI repeated over and over, like a mantra that kept me anchored to reality.


    Suddenly, a familiar voice pierced the darkness like a ray of light:


    ¡ªOh, little Ars. I did not think you would wet the bed.

 Traces of a distant past (2)

    ¡ªOh, little Ars. I did not think you would wet the bed.


    I opened my eyes, disoriented. I found myself back in my room, surrounded by familiar walls and furniture I knew so well. It had been just a dream, a vivid nightmare that I could still feel the cold sweat stuck to my skin.


    My mother looked at me with a mixture of tenderness and amusement, as if I had fallen asleep and wet the bed without realizing it. The dream had been much more chilling than I thought, but at least my clothes were clean and dry. My mother must have changed them while I slept.


    ?Damn, I was scolded for wetting the bed. Although, well, I''m still a baby, right? I suppose wetting the bed is still forgivable at this age?, I thought to myself.


    A reflection appeared before my eyes that seemed like an angel''s. It was the image of a baby with slightly disheveled white hair, intense sapphire-colored eyes, and a face with soft, healthy skin.


    ¡ªSo that''s me ¡ªI mumbled to myself.


    I had found an old hand mirror on a tool shelf in Atlas''s office. Eager to have the opportunity to observe my own appearance, I approached and grabbed it with both hands. I found myself cuter than I expected.


    After thinking about it a bit more, it probably shouldn''t have been so surprising that I was more adorable than most people. After all, I was just a small child.


    All human beings are infinitely cuter during their childhood years. Even the most rugged and bearded-looking men were once adorable little creatures, as could be verified by looking at their childhood photo albums.


    ¡ªYes... ¡ªI softly returned the mirror to its place.


    I clenched my small hand and then opened it. I closed it again and reopened it. It was a tiny, soft, and chubby hand. My hand.


    Two years had passed since I arrived in this world. It hadn''t taken me long to learn to walk, and I could even speak, though with some difficulty. I had spent the last year constantly practicing how to stand and take steps, as well as learning new words and their pronunciations by talking with Adelaide and the other members of the house.


    However, I still fell on my face occasionally. Probably because my head was disproportionately large compared to my tiny body. It could also have something to do with the fact that my field of vision, sense of balance, and muscles were still in the process of developing.


    As an additional complaint, I still had a pretty low pain threshold. As expected, I cried every time I fell. But I was progressing, little by little. Perhaps it was the normal progress that could be expected of any child my age, but the advancement was undeniable nonetheless.


    At the very least, I had overcome the crawling and crying phase to become someone who could have attended kindergarten or daycare. Therefore, I thought it was time to try my luck with the next challenge: learning magic.


    With determination, I picked up the book I had secretly taken from the library. I sat on the floor and carefully opened it, my tiny hands barely managing to hold the heavy tome.


    The book''s title read: "Encyclopedia for Ascendants".


    My eyes eagerly scanned the pages, absorbing every word like a sponge:


    "While the power to manifest stellar energy is largely genetic, there are many cases where the children of Ascendants cannot feel the energy residing within them. Those without talent for ascending are destined to remain as servants, the lowest level of society, who can be trampled and manipulated, but those with talent can become ''Ascendants'', going beyond the ordinary".Enjoying this book? Seek out the original to ensure the author gets credit.


    "Stellar energy is born from intense emotions that naturally flow through the body that all living beings emit".


    "Turn".


    "Ascendants control the flow of their stellar energy and accumulate this energy, allowing them to use it at will to greatly reduce the energy leakage from their bodies. This also involves controlling their emotions. Stellar energy itself is not easy to use. It is volatile, sporadic, and dangerous when not controlled, and is not visible to the human eye without special abilities".


    "Similarly, stellar energy carries with it the desires and emotions of people, so it is often heavily influenced by mental and emotional states. Normal people were not capable of controlling the flow of energy in their bodies, causing the energy to leak from the body, accumulate, and ferment over time until it manifests as a Contaminant".


    "Contaminants have a single objective: to feed. They need energy, which they use to continue growing and evolving. Their evolution has no limits, as long as they have sufficient energy".


    "Turn".


    "Stellar habits are the compound interest of stellar energy, as well as Ascension, that is, personal improvement. Just as money multiplies through compound interest, the quantity and effects of stellar energy multiply as you repeat them each day. They may not seem to make much difference on a given day and yet the impact they produce as months and years pass can be enormous. Only when we turn around and contemplate the last two, or five or perhaps ten years do we realize and become surprised by the value of good habits and the negative cost of bad habits".


    "Stellar habits are a double-edged sword. They can work in favor of the user or against them. For this reason, understanding the details is indispensable. Small changes often seem to have no effect until the user crosses a critical threshold. The most powerful results of any cumulative process tend to be delayed, so the individual must learn to be patient".


    I felt my head spinning with so much information. But I did not stop, eager to learn more about this fascinating world in which I had been reborn:


    "A stellar habit is a small habit that is part of a more complex system. Just as atoms are the bricks of molecules, stellar habits are the bricks of an Ascendant''s exceptional results".


    I see, there was much to learn, I should study more.


    With that thought, I closed the encyclopedia and settled more comfortably on the floor.


    Reflecting on what I had just read, this world seemed quite underdeveloped compared to the one I remembered from my previous life.


    From what I could infer, there did not seem to be many technological advances. The only means of transportation seemed to be horse-drawn carriages, which varied in size for land use, and sailboats for rivers.


    Carrying weapons was freely allowed and not really regulated, unless one visited the royal family or people with authority. Carrying weapons was something common and accepted in society, as long as one did not come into contact with royalty or figures of power.


    In this world, several mysterious forces existed, and Ascendants could be classified into various main professions: Knight, Mage, Explorer, Warrior, Archer, Assassin, Sorcerer, and Healer.


    There were more, like "advanced professions", but these were the least common. Those with whom commoners had more experience were Warriors. Warriors were Ascendants who had undergone rigorous training and had awakened their latent abilities. Their physical attributes far exceeded those of a normal human.


    These Warriors not only possessed physical attributes several times superior to normal humans but were also experts in the use of various weapons and combat arts. The kingdoms of the common world, along with the nobility, were generally formed by Warriors who had reached a certain level of power and prestige.


    I got lost in my thoughts, imagining what it would be like to become one of those powerful Warriors or perhaps even a Mage capable of controlling the mysterious forces of this new world. My small hands closed into fists, determined to discover my own potential and place in this society so different from the one I had known in my previous life. The sound of approaching footsteps brought me out of my musings.


    The office door opened with a soft creak, revealing Adelaide''s figure.


    ¡ªArs, you''re in the office ¡ªshe said with a sweet voice¡ª. You should be sleeping, dear.


    Adelaide approached me and lifted me tenderly in her arms, leaving the great encyclopedia of knowledge right where it was, out of my reach.


    ¡ªI don''t think it''s normal for children to read encyclopedias, you know? ¡ªshe added, tickling me while laughing at my expressions of surprise and giggles.


    ?I suppose learning about the world can take some time? I thought while Adelaide carried me back to my room.


    I had managed to absorb a good amount of information before Adelaide and I began our intense game of cat and mouse. While laughing and running around the room, dodging Adelaide''s playful hands, I continued reviewing the information I had read in the encyclopedia. The Ascendants, stellar energy, contaminants... everything seemed so fascinating and dangerous at the same time.

 Changing Star

    ARCEUS PENDRAGON


    I woke up the next morning with a special feeling. Mealtime had always been my favorite moment, and today would be no exception.


    How wonderful to have all this food in front of me!


    Facing a table full of products that seemed to be the delicacies of mountains and seas that I had tasted since my birth, I felt a sense of abundance incomparable to any other moment. As expected, this was the best moment since I was reborn.


    ?There''s nothing wrong with saying that eating and drinking are the greatest pleasures of life.?


    I looked at Dad. Atlas, seated in the center of the table, smiled and shook his head.


    ¡ªLet''s eat ¡ªhe said in his measured voice.


    With those words, the family dinner hour began. It was my favorite time of day.


    ?Food is food, but...?


    I knew that Atlas, who was family-oriented, preferred to sit and dine with us, regardless of other matters.


    Now, for me, it was a moment more precious than anything else.


    My face filled with happiness as I raised my utensils and brought a large, hot ball of dough to my mouth.


    ?It''s delicious, it''s delicious!?


    Not only were the ingredients good, but Mom''s skill, who was in charge of preparing family meals, was also extraordinary, resulting in a fantastic flavor.


    I noticed a girl looking at me with shining eyes, happily eating right next to me. It was not strange when Anastasia, seeing me smile, took another piece of food and handed it to me.


    ¡ªArs, eat ¡ªshe said, touching my cheek with the food and showing a bright smile while tilting her head.


    ?Someone is giving it to you, so you have to eat it!?


    The sight was so cute that I unconsciously felt a tingling sensation in my heart. Without hesitation, I swallowed all the food Anastasia gave me in one bite and smiled.


    ¡ªHahaha! ¡ªI laughed heartily.


    Anastasia, seeing me, also smiled and shook her head. It was an affectionate relationship between brother and sister that could not help but make our parents proud.


    ¡ªHoho, it''s even better to see our Ars eating well and Anastasia taking care of him ¡ªmy mother commented.A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation.


    ¡ªIsn''t it supposed to be the other way around? ¡ªmy father questioned with a laugh.


    In any case, as long as we both grew up well together, it would be enough.


    From a father''s perspective, there could be no greater happiness than that.


    ***


    ANASTASIA PENDRAGON


    In the past, Arceus was a child who was afraid even of sleeping alone.


    ?So fragile, so vulnerable.?


    I used to hear him crying, hidden away from everyone.


    But now, at five years old, he had become stubborn and proud, which sometimes made me seriously wonder if I had made some mistake in his upbringing as an older sister.


    ?Where did my little scared child go??


    ¡ª Big sister, will you tell me a story? ¡ªhe asked with his sweetest little voice.


    ¡ª Ufufu... you really love hearing old tales ¡ªI responded, feeling a warm smile draw itself on my face.


    We would always be together, from the morning when Ars woke up until the night when he went to sleep.


    ¡ª Big sister is warm... ¡ªhe murmured while cuddling against me.


    Hugging him enormously stimulated my maternal instinct because I liked physical contact and sleeping.


    ?Could my brother be any more adorable??


    The more I felt his body temperature, the harder it became to let him go. Unconsciously, I tightened my embrace.


    I was starting to wonder if my affection had gone too far, but still I could not stop pampering him.


    ?Every second with him is precious.?


    As time passed and we both realized my little brother was maturing, we stopped sleeping together. But, in reality, that happened just a few months ago.


    ?Time passes so quickly.?


    Until then we were together even when we bathed, so it was natural that Ars could not oppose me.


    Ars, five years old, let out a muffled laugh, like some bad guy.


    ?There was something more to him.?


    He did not seem like a small child at all, contrary to his appearance.


    Ars''s true nature was something only I knew. At that moment, he did not show that side of himself even to our mother Adelaide.


    I remembered the adorable Ars with a distant look and let out a sigh that came from the bottom of my heart.


    The scene seemed to freeze at that instant, with Ars cuddled against me, his calm breathing, while my hand softly caressed his hair.


    No matter how much he would grow, how much he would change, for me he would always be my little Ars. The child who once cried in fear in the darkness, and who now laughed with a mischief that only I knew.


    One day, while Arceus had gone out for morning exercise and my mother was cleaning his room, my father walked toward my bedroom. I was staring fixedly at a book in the living room when I saw him appear.


    ¡ªN-no, you can''t! How can you enter a girl''s bathroom without her consent? ¡ªI shouted, grabbing his arm to try to drag him away¡ª. It must be dirty.


    "N-no?! It''s not so dirty! These days I didn''t clean much because I was practicing spells... Still, you can''t!" I thought desperately while struggling.


    Without paying me any attention, Atlas headed toward my bedroom door, and I was dragged there. The force I used to scream "Uang!" was almost nonexistent.


    ¡ªNnooooo! ¡ªI screamed by reflex when he opened the door.


    On one side of the wall there were dolls, mirrors, and pictures of people. The quantity rose to almost a hundred. And it seemed I had consumed many chocolates, since aluminum papers and paper boxes formed mountains on the floor.


    It was a manifestation of the purest disorder.


    ¡ªI can''t believe it! My mom said you shouldn''t enter other people''s rooms without permission, okay? ¡ªI reproached him, feeling my face burn with embarrassment.


    ¡ªThose dolls, when did you get so many? ¡ªhe asked me, ignoring my evident discomfort.


    ¡ªThat''s not important! Please leave...! I''m dying of embarrassment ¡ªI insisted, pushing him with all my strength.


    Atlas, who was pushed toward the hallway, suddenly said:


    ¡ª Let''s clean the house today.


    ?Typical of my father? ,I thought with frustration and resignation.

 Children of the stars

    ARCEUS PENDRAGON


    Two years had passed since I read that guide for Ascendants. The curiosity and yearning to become an Ascendant grew inside me, until one day I could no longer contain myself.


    ¡ª Mom, can you teach me how to become an Ascendant?


    Mom observed the excitement in my eyes and, after a moment of reflection, responded with another question: ¡ª What talent do you think is the most necessary to learn?


    I meditated for an instant. The question was subjective, but after considering several options, I responded:


    ¡ª Effort, knowledge is so vast that one cannot expect to learn everything in a lifetime. That''s why effort is crucial.


    My mother smiled with a touch of mischief and responded:


    ¡ª Money. You would need to buy many books to learn, even if just a little.


    I couldn''t help but laugh at my mother''s unexpected response. I pouted and asked:


    ¡ª If it''s not effort, nor knowledge, nor money, then what talent is needed most to become an Ascendant?


    Adelaide, adopting a more serious tone, finally revealed:


    ¡ª The most important talent to become an Ascendant is perspicacity, more simply known as perception.


    ¡ª What is perception? ¡ªI inquired, intrigued.


    ¡ª Intuition is more precise than knowledge and faster than effort ¡ªexplained my mother with a kind voice¡ª. All skills that exist in the world began with an intuition. Let me give you an example. Do you know how much one plus one is?


    ¡ª Of course they are two ¡ªI responded without hesitation.


    ¡ª I see. Can you explain to me why one plus one equals two?


    I hesitated for a moment, my initial confidence slightly diminished. ¡ª Because if you add 1+1 it results in two, right?


    Adelaide nodded.


    ¡ª That''s right. However, that strange sensation you are experiencing now is a revelation. Long ago, there was a moment in history when it was not known that one plus one equals two. But it has been demonstrated with much combined knowledge and effort. But don''t we now perfectly understand that one plus one equals two, without going through that process?


    I nodded, beginning to understand my mother''s point.


    ¡ª Skills are not a phenomenon that arises from nothing. It''s like when you know the answer is two, even when you didn''t know that one plus one equals two. The way someone puts effort and knowledge to find out, and the way someone can come to understand it and realizes it naturally. Therefore, intuition is the fastest way to understand the rules that govern our world.Stolen content alert: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.


    She paused, allowing her words to settle in my mind.


    ¡ª Intuition is not something that can be acquired with a snap of the fingers. The reason why one plus one is two is because scholars have demonstrated it over many years. Of course, there are cases where someone can realize the correct answer without going through that process. Those people I would call... geniuses.


    ¡ª Geniuses... ¡ªI murmured to myself, savoring the word.


    ¡ª I am sure I am not mistaken ¡ªshe continued¡ª. Every living being was born with talent and, if perfected, anyone can become a genius.


    I reflected on my mother''s words. Was it really true that anyone could be a genius?


    Adelaide, noticing my thoughtful expression, decided to share a deeper perspective, ¡ª You know, my son ¡ªshe began, her voice seeming to pierce through the walls of the house, getting lost in the infinite¡ª, what we are today is nothing more than stardust. The earth you walk on, the nitrogen in our DNA, the iron in your blood, the calcium in your teeth, the carbon inside you and me, were born inside the core of stars. When these stars explode in a supernova, they release into space the elements formed within them. Over time, the elements clump together to form new stars, planets, and other celestial bodies. Every time we look at the night sky, we contemplate a fragment of our own history. All the elements that compose us were created in the heart of stars that shone long before the world existed. What you are and what you touch, is stellar matter, we are essentially... Children of the stars.


    My mother''s words opened a new world to me. A lump formed in my throat and for a moment, I felt overwhelmed by the magnitude of what I had just heard. The idea that every atom of my being had been forged in the heart of a star made me feel both insignificant and transcendental.


    After a moment of contemplative silence, I formulated the question burning in my mind:


    ¡ª So, how can I become an Ascendant?


    My mother smiled at my enthusiasm. ¡ª To become an Ascendant, the user''s consciousness must match and resonate with the world. A deep mental state, for example.


    ¡ª What is a deep mental state? ¡ªI asked as a child my age would.


    ¡ª When the individual concentrates, their mind becomes deep enough to perceive everything around them. We Ascendants call this the ?Awakening Zone?. At the moment they enter the awakening zone, the individual can perceive the outside world with extrasensory perception, being able to see beyond what the eyes can see.


    ¡ª Can I do it too?


    ¡ª Anyone can do it.


    Glimpsing the Awakening Horizon was something everyone could do, but at the same time, not everyone could enter. Many remained at the door, unable to take the final step.


    ¡ª First you have to feel yourself and then let it go ¡ªexplained my mother¡ª. If that happens, a different world will open. Do you understand what I''m saying?


    ¡ª Okay ¡ªI responded, closing my eyes to concentrate.


    At that moment, I faced a fundamental question: How much did I really know about myself? Who was I really? I realized for the first time how difficult it was to clearly define myself. There was too much of me to summarize, and none of it was precise.


    ?I, what am I really??


    At that instant, I felt that a very simple truth was emerging like a fish in crystalline waters. A mental state in synchrony, my mother''s previous statement was terribly accurate.


    I realized that I did not know the world beyond my brain. The concept of the brain, the truth was that all the senses and realities I saw were actually arbitrary and incomplete. There was no absolute reality, reality was linked to perception and, therefore, was part of each person''s inner world.


    I understood that there was no need to define it, only to feel it. Only an acute mind would remain. Instead of trying to define myself, I erased everything I believed myself to be. Because if I erased it like that, in the end nothing would remain. And finally, even my thoughts disappeared.


    Suddenly, my eyes opened wide.

 Children of the stars (2)

    The world I perceived had changed drastically. All colors seemed to saturate. The reds were redder, the blues bluer, and the blacks blacker. Intense colors blended like in an impressionist painting.


    At that moment, my vision became blurry and, although my mind felt light, it was clear. I felt like a castaway floating in the sea of consciousness.


    Gradually, the environment became more perceptible. All colors returned to their original state while a grayish and blurry fog emanated. Around me were bodies that were difficult to describe. There were transparent objects that did not seem to exist in the physical plane. In the background, I observed clusters of pure light in different colors. This light seemed to possess a life of its own or contain an immense knowledge that I could not completely comprehend.


    Gradually, the environment became more perceptible. All colors returned to their original state while a grayish and blurry fog emanated. Around me were bodies that were difficult to describe. There were transparent objects that did not seem to exist. In the background, there were clusters of pure light in different colors. The light seemed to possess life or contain an immense knowledge.


    Suddenly, I realized something, which made my consciousness sink abruptly and merge with me. The fog quickly dissipated and the colors returned to normal. The bright and clear halo and the non-existent objects disappeared instantly.


    The scene in the room returned to normal, but I felt my head swelling. I felt as if it were being torn off. Whatever I was seeing had innumerable residual images. My ears were overwhelmed by an ethereal murmur. I frowned and quickly shook my head.


    ¡ªIs your vision abnormal? Are you also hearing things you didn''t hear before? ¡ªsaid my mother, beside me, with a hidden smile.


    ¡ªNo, I''m fine now, mom. ¡ªI looked at my body and discovered that nothing abnormal had happened. I moved my limbs and, between expectation and doubt, asked¡ª: Did I do it? Am I now considered an Ascendant?


    My mother took out a mercury plate that looked like a mirror and put it in front of me.


    ¡ªLook at your eyes.


    I focused my gaze and saw that my eyes were a different color. My silhouette stood out and my facial features seemed normal. Apart from having my face covered in sweat, I didn''t seem different in any way. I followed my mother''s instructions and looked carefully at my eyes. Only then did I discover that my blue eyes had become much deeper, of a purple tone.


    ¡ªThis is usually a physical manifestation of your class powers, but yours seem different. Tell me, do you feel you possess an ability you didn''t have?


    I concentrated and tried to look in my mind. ¡ªThat doesn''t seem to be the case.


    My mother put a hand to her chin, thoughtful. ¡ª How odd. It seemed to be an innate ability.


    ¡ªMom, what is an innate ability?


    ¡ªInnate Abilities are those abilities that form at birth. These abilities are fixed from birth and cannot be changed or taught to others. They are congenitally recorded in the user''s body, specifically in the right prefrontal cortex of the brain.


    ¡ªOh, really? Sounds quite special. By any chance, does my sister Anastasia possess an innate ability?


    Adelaide looked at me with a strange smile. ¡ªOf course, although they are quite rare, Anastasia also possesses an innate ability. If I''m not mistaken, its name was: The Dragon''s Awakening.


    ¡ªI understand ¡ªI asked what I wanted to know so much¡ª. Mom, what is a sorcerer?


    My mother cleared her throat and said, ¡ªThere are 8 different jobs that manifest through 8 multiple intelligences. Although each person can have different levels of development in each of these intelligences, and there can be individual variations in how they manifest. The manifestation of a job is due to the most predominant intelligence. That is, it is the one that stands out the most, what prevails the most or what has the greatest power or control in our brain.This content has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.


    1. Linguistic Intelligence: ability to use language effectively, including reading, writing, listening, and speaking. ¡ªWith this intelligence, the individual becomes a Knight. Knights are natural leaders who can inspire and motivate their allies. Their leadership skills increase the morale and strength of their team in battle.


    2. Logical Intelligence: ability to reason abstractly, use logic and solve problems systematically ¡ªWith this, a mage. Mages can manipulate reality through equations and magical formulas. Their spells are precise and powerful, capable of altering the laws of physics.


    3. Spatial Intelligence: ability to perceive and manipulate objects in the surrounding space, including understanding graphics, diagrams, and other visual elements. ¡ªWith this, an archer. Archers can shoot arrows with incredible precision, even at great distances. They can visualize the trajectory of their arrows and adjust their aim accordingly.


    4. Bodily Intelligence: coordination and control of the body, including the ability to perform precise and expressive movements. ¡ªWith this, a warrior. Warriors are experts in hand-to-hand combat through defense. They can perform acrobatic movements and use their physical strength to dominate their opponents.


    5. Musical Intelligence: ability to perceive, create, and appreciate music through sounds. ¡ªWith this, an explorer. Explorers can communicate with sounds and use their environment to their advantage. They can track their enemies, find resources, and survive in extreme conditions.


    6. Interpersonal Intelligence: ability to understand and interact with others, including empathy, effective communication, and conflict resolution. ¡ªWith this, a healer.


    7. Intrapersonal Intelligence: knowledge of oneself, including self-awareness, self-discipline, and the ability to reflect on one''s own thoughts and feelings.


    ¡ªWith this, an assassin. Assassins have exceptional control over their emotions and can move without being detected. They are experts in stealthy attacks and eliminate their targets with precision.


    8. Natural Intelligence: ability to observe, understand, and connect with nature. ¡ªWith this, the user can become a sorcerer.


    I began to unconsciously rub the bridge of my nose while my brain spun, trying to process all the information I had received.


    Only then did I realize how exhausted I was, that I could fall asleep at any moment. My mind hurt as if I had been awake for three nights.


    My mother said with a little laugh: ¡ªMy son, you must rest. As you know, awakening is not easy, the load on body and mind is great, so you will need to sleep a little more until your body gets used to it. Now you can return and rest well. Tomorrow, I will continue teaching you more.


    Early in the morning, at the family breakfast, the atmosphere was welcoming. Opening the window, bird chirps could be heard. The next day, Adelaide was busy from morning, and inside the curved kitchen, the sounds of a knife cutting things could be heard.


    ¡ªHow are you, kids? ¡ªI heard my father Atlas greet with his characteristic smile.


    They were happy days, really. This was all I needed to be happy.


    ?Why didn''t I understand this before??


    The most ordinary days were the most precious, it is for them that we shed tears, remembering past happiness. This is the daily life of people.


    Only when they took away these days of peace and this ordinary life did I understand this.


    While waiting for breakfast, I observed my mother completely dedicating herself to food preparation. She was wearing an apron while preparing breakfast, which matched the entire retro aesthetic of the house. The pink hearts embroidered on the fabric combined with the ceramic tile of the sink.


    Anastasia observed from her position on the counter.


    ¡ªEveryone, come eat. When you feel bad, you need to eat something delicious. ¡ªWhat mom had prepared was similar to a thick soup.


    ¡ªWow! Thanks for the food. ¡ªAnastasia ran excitedly and sat in her chair.


    When Adelaide served her portion, Anastasia lifted a spoonful of the soup and became rigid.


    Then, suddenly, she made a bright smile.


    ¡ªKuu, as expected... It''s delicious! ¡ªThen she started eating excessively.


    I obediently nodded while observing the sugary atmosphere surrounding us as we ate and thought that getting married was something very good.


    Love transformed every moment into something special.


    My mother, with a spoon in her hand, addressed my father:


    ¡ª Come on, say "Ahh" ¡ªshe told him with a mischievous smile.


    My father, somewhat embarrassed, responded:


    ¡ª Hey, the kids are watching... ¡ªIt was rare to see my father get nervous.


    Then my mother added, looking at us:


    ¡ª Mom and dad look very good together, don''t they, kids?


    Anastasia and I responded at the same time:


    ¡ª Oh, yes... That''s true ¡ªand then we looked at each other and laughed.


    I constantly experienced this in this life. A feeling of fullness that completely enveloped me.


    Suddenly, I felt overwhelmed by an oppressive stressful sensation, as if time was escaping me.


    ?What did this strange sensation mean??


    I was sitting at the table, and in front of me were my smiling parents, holding a spoon.


    Seeing how happy they were, I simply sighed, realizing that love was truly magical.

 One step at a time

    I woke up with the cold winter temperature and the dazzling morning sun.


    ?Perhaps it''s still too early to wake up?, I thought while curling up more in my inflatable mattress.


    Because this world had no electrical light, I was following a healthy life rhythm to sleep immediately as soon as it got dark. I was a five-year-old child, I couldn''t allow my body to stay awake late and needed to quickly fly into the dream world.


    In any case, I was still sleepy. And I didn''t want to leave the futon because it was cold.


    ?Why does winter make the inflatable bed so irresistible and attractive??, I mentally questioned myself.


    No matter how many times I trained my magical power, I didn''t believe I could ever beat the magical power of the bed.


    ¡ªAaah, bed. I won''t let you go. Absolutely ¡ªI whispered, words of love to my warm refuge.


    ?How happy!? I enjoyed the feeling of being in a warm and sunny climate, holding the futon tightly.


    Aaah... it felt like my body was floating in the air.


    I was truly happy. Once a person falls completely asleep, they cannot feel the pleasant sensation of lying on an inflatable bed. But in this current state, I was able to fall asleep while feeling the comfortable futon and pillow.


    ?If I go out now, suddenly a cold and dry air that can be said to be freezing will hit me. Should I defend this comfortable place or discard this pleasant sensation??, I reflected.


    ...No, it''s not right, I need to go to the bathroom.


    I was not even able to enjoy going back to sleep with these urges. In other words: it''s more comfortable to go back to sleep as soon as possible after going to the bathroom. Even if there is a danger of being completely awake at that moment, I still had to do it.


    But I just exchanged promises of love with my bed. Will I be able to break it somehow immediately after?


    In my opinion, this conflicting feeling was clashing with itself.


    ¡ªI''ve decided, I''m going to move forward ¡ªI muttered with determination.


    Although it was annoying, I opened my heavy eyelids.


    The dawn light is burning my eyes without mercy!


    The sunlight hurt me directly.The tale has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.


    I simply opened my eyes and this happened. The path to the bathroom was quite steep. Still, I was going to move forward.


    Slowly I pulled my foot out of the blankets.


    ¡ª?Aaaaaaaahh! ¡ªI screamed when the cold air stabbed my foot like a needle!


    I wanted to put my foot back under the blankets immediately. If I did it now, there was still time.


    The need to go to the bathroom was constantly increasing, soon it would reach the limit and eventually explode. I had pride to protect. If this pride took a hit, people would point and ridicule me.


    As a man, those things could not be forgiven.


    I moved instantly and jumped out of the futon. I felt my charming and beloved bed wrapping around me as if to stop me.


    ¡ªI''m sorry ¡ªI told it.


    By exposing my entire body, the force of nature with the name ''Midwinter'' entered furiously. I immediately adjusted the blankets so that the heat would not escape.


    Then, I made a clear image in my head of where the bathroom was located and went.


    ¡ªJa! A dream, eh? It was tremendously realistic ¡ªI muttered upon waking.


    The season right now is autumn. Of course, there is no such thing as a cold wind that would stab my body, and nature is not raging either.


    Besides, I''m not on an inflatable bed, it''s just a bed, I reflected.


    The morning air could feel a bit cold upon waking, but if the body moved, it would have an ideal temperature.


    ?Ja! There''s no way I''m wetting the bed, right?!?


    I hastily confirmed the state of my crotch. After having that kind of dream, there was a possibility that it had happened.


    ¡ªSure, no problem ¡ªI told myself.


    There was nothing that could hurt my pride.


    ?Well, should I go back to sleep this time??, I asked myself.


    After all, I had not been able to go back to sleep in my dream.


    My body sank into the bed while I felt very comfortable, enjoying the sensation of the blanket enveloping me. My consciousness was gradually sinking into darkness.


    TOC TOC.


    ¡ªArs, are you awake? ¡ªit was my older sister''s voice calling from the hallway.


    ¡ªI''m sleeping ¡ªI responded.


    ¡ªHi... ¡ªshe began.


    ¡ªNo ¡ªI cut her intervention.


    ¡ªEven though I haven''t said anything yet? ¡ªshe asked.


    ¡ªNo! I don''t want to hear it, go away ¡ªI urged, without interest.


    ¡ªI''m coming in ¡ªshe announced.


    ?What a quick decision!?


    With a ?kiii~? sound, the door opened mercilessly.


    Why didn''t I close the door correctly yesterday? Even if I regret it now, I couldn''t do it, I told myself.


    ¡ªWake up, Ars ¡ªAnastasia called me.


    I put on an innocent face and breathed as if I were sleeping.


    ?Regardless of the angle you look from, I''m a cute little brother?, I thought with satisfaction.


    My older sister caressed the bangs of my white-colored hair.


    Then she suddenly stopped the movement of her hand and put force in her arm.


    ¡ªHey, wait! It hurts, it hurts! My skull! ¡ªI screamed when she used brute force on me.


    ¡ªDid you think you could fool me by putting on that face? ¡ªshe asked me.


    ¡ªYes, I have done something stupid ¡ªI admitted.


    After that, Anastasia relaxed her grip on me. Although her hand still didn''t leave my head.


    ¡ªCan you please remove your hands from me? ¡ªI asked her.


    ¡ªNot yet ¡ªshe responded.


    I''m glad, I thought she was going to say something like "A pet needs a collar, right?", I reflected.


    ?A bossy and flat-chested person, I wonder who''s to blame?, I thought sarcastically.


    ¡ªDoes it hurt?! I didn''t say anything now, right? ¡ªI asked.


    ¡ªMy woman''s intuition told me to hit you ¡ªshe explained.


    ?Is this person an example of an oracle? And when revelations arrive without reservations like that, people will take it for granted. I want you to please restrain yourself a bit?


    ¡ªIn any case, let''s have breakfast ¡ªshe announced.


    ¡ªIs the food ready? ¡ªI asked.


    ¡ªThat''s right. You know, mom is the best! ¡ªshe responded.


    ¡ªThat''s right! ¡ªI exclaimed with a wide smile.

 One step at a time (2)

    I heard my parents talking while I was in the training room.


    ¡ªYou really enjoy seeing our son training, don''t you? ¡ªI heard Adelaide say.


    I concentrated on their conversation while pretending to be training.


    ¡ªOf course, how could I not? The Paradise Tower is an extremely dangerous place and sooner or later, Arceus will have to go.


    ?The Paradise Tower? What are they talking about??, I asked myself mentally, feeling curious.


    ¡ªPlease, don''t be so greedy with your ambition ¡ªmom told him¡ª. First of all, it''s not time yet. The artifact that isolates the zone from the Tower''s influence is still working and, although training is always good, we must respect his decision and what he truly desires.


    ¡ªI understand, I know it wouldn''t be right to force him to do it ¡ªmy father responded.


    ¡ªIt''s good to hear that, I''m happy you''re not a stubborn fool ¡ªmom told him.


    ¡ªAnd I''m happy to be married to a beautiful and wonderful woman ¡ªhe answered.


    ?How sickly sweet they are!?, I thought, rolling my eyes.


    Atlas, whispering sweet words only in the hallway between them, hugged Adelaide''s waist and gave her a brief kiss.


    Soon, the young couple walked away.


    ?Now''s my chance!?


    At the moment I convinced myself that my parents had gone, without hesitation, I firmly dropped the spear I was holding and ran away.


    While taking quick steps and leaving the training room, the maid Mira guarding the door seemed surprised.


    ¡ªYou promised to practice until noon, young master ¡ªMira warned me.


    ¡ªPromises are meant to be broken ¡ªI responded confidently.


    ¡ªYoung master, where are you going? ¡ªshe asked, frowning.


    ¡ªTo play ¡ªI simply responded.


    However, if she quit immediately, she would no longer be a maid.


    ¡ªBut... ¡ªshe tried to protest.


    ¡ªMira, the sky is beautiful, how could I just practice and train? I should go out for fresh air occasionally ¡ªI argued with a smile.


    ¡ª...That is correct ¡ªshe finally yielded with a sigh.


    ¡ªBesides, don''t you know that mom and dad have gone out? They won''t worry about me for a good while ¡ªI suggested like a cunning politician.


    ¡ªIs this what you expected from the beginning? ¡ªshe asked, crossing her arms.


    ¡ªJust shut up, please. What will you do when mom and dad come back with all that noise? ¡ªI told the maid, while accelerating my pace, leaving her behind.


    I heard Mira''s scream, but I didn''t turn around.


    Recently, it took me more time to exhaust my stellar energy, so my magical training had also increased.


    ?How far will I go with my power??


    As my energy increased those days, I believed that the feeling of exhaustion was stronger at the moment when I first ran out of energy.


    ?I wonder if this will be proportional?.


    ¡ªYou''re lying down in a place like this again! ¡ªI heard Anastasia''s voice.


    ?What? This is my favorite place, you know!?


    This place was a plain about 10 minutes walking from our Pendragon mansion. The grass didn''t grow on one side and looked exactly like a green carpet.


    ?Perfect for resting?.Support the author by searching for the original publication of this novel.


    I had a lazy appearance while lying down, except when Anastasia arrived. The meadow trembled by the wind, and my sister''s silver hair, gathered in a ponytail, had become longer and more alive. She seemed to become more feminine day by day.


    Her face''s appearance was becoming thin and her pupils, crimson like my father Atlas''s, seemed powerful and soothing.


    ¡ªSince I just started taking a break, it''s a good time, right? ¡ªI told her with a smile.


    ¡ªAre you okay, Ars? Your eyes seem tired again ¡ªshe asked with concern.


    ¡ªWell, I just woke up and my eyes look like this ¡ªI quickly responded.


    I had short white hair like my father, and my eyes with sapphire pupils, inherited from my mother Adelaide, looked slightly thin.


    I couldn''t say anything about it.


    For children like me, fatigue caused by stellar energy exhaustion appeared in the eyes. Only rest restored the consumed energy.


    When they asked me if I was tired, I wanted to think it was a coincidence.


    I was a five-year-old energetic and healthy child!


    ¡ªBecause mom said you occasionally go outside ¡ªshe said with a smile.


    Mom worried too much. I was supposed to be a five-year-old problematic child full of curiosity, so seeing me lying down properly and quietly in the room must be very worrying.


    But actually, I was just an exhausted Ascendant.


    The fatigue still persisted. Seeing that I didn''t get up, Anastasia frowned and bent her mouth into a "¤Ø", showing she was unsatisfied.


    ¡ªHey Ana, didn''t you forcefully take me to the river yesterday? ¡ªI asked her.


    ¡ªThat was my judgment as your kind-hearted older sister ¡ªshe responded.


    ?Yeah, right!?


    Anastasia inflated her non-existent chest.


    ?How are you kind-hearted??


    ?You disrupted my nap yesterday, disrupted my magical training the day before yesterday, and how are you helping me now with your previous help?!


    ?In the end, you also quickly ate my sweets (unrelated). But it was all Anastasia''s fault!?


    With those thoughts, I sentenced her:


    ¡ªI see Ana as a demon ¡ªI told her.


    ¡ªNo matter, let''s go quickly! ¡ªshe exclaimed.


    ?Resistance seemed useless?


    While being dragged by her soft white hand, today I was also kidnapped.


    ***


    MAID MIRA


    The city''s size was large and had many extraordinary aspects, which made taking a walk memorable.


    ?From the perspective of these two children, who don''t have much time in this world, the city is full of all kinds of strange things?, I thought. Everything was simply amazing, from buildings full of ornamental decorations, to canals and countless people.


    We passed through the town square, which was lively today.


    In the square, beautiful ladies were chatting about this and that.


    ¡ªYes, yes! So I ended up ordering two second helpings of spaghetti.


    ¡ªMe too-.


    ¡ªMy husband also ate my portion before, you know? Isn''t it incredible?


    ¡ªWa¡ª, Mauro eats well after all¡ª


    ¡ªThat''s why I had to eat hard bread! Incredible!


    It seemed the wives were talking about their husbands or food.


    ?Am I supposed to watch both of them alone??, I wondered. I felt that making a living was hard.


    I observed the children from afar, especially Anastasia, who continued cheering happily, and a smile appeared naturally on my face.


    ?How can you be so charming??, I asked myself.


    Was it because she was a girl? Or because she was an elf?


    I was sure I had seen them since they were smaller, but there was something different about Anastasia and Arceus. It was a strange difference that couldn''t be expressed in words.


    As a maiden who had not yet known a man, let alone raised a child, this was even more incomprehensible to me.


    Therefore, I thought that if I ever had a child in the future, I would definitely want to have a daughter.


    That''s why my heart was twisted when I saw Anastasia''s cute and small figure.


    ?Because she is so pretty and charming that it hurts my heart!?, I exclaimed to myself.


    I remembered being cautious every time I touched Anastasia''s chubby cheeks and getting nervous because I was worried that if I squeezed her hand too hard, she would break.


    In the end, for me, all the time I spent with Anastasia was precious.


    The smell of fish and the noise of boots mixed in the confusion.


    Before I realized it, we had arrived at the river''s edge.


    Aksville was full of people.


    The children moved quickly through the auction stands, seeing the items.


    ¡ªNaru No. 3! 200 kg of sturgeon!


    ¡ªNaru No. 5! 100 kg of Spanish mackerel! 120 kg of sturgeon!


    ¡ªNaru No. 2! 250 kg of crab!


    While the boats unloaded the seafood, the auctioneers shouted loudly.


    Aksville''s fish market wasn''t very large, so most customers were cart drivers and nearby restaurant owners.


    The children squeezed between people and watched the auction.


    ?It''s been a while since I visited the fish market?, I reflected.


    The auctioneer scribbled something on a note and handed it to the winning bidder.


    The winner handed over the note, along with the money, to the cargo handler and received the merchandise, loading it onto a cart.


    All this happened in less than 10 seconds.


    Setting the price, exchanging merchandise, bringing the next item... these actions flowed like water, comparable to a circus show.


    Even in such a small place, there was a world of experts.


    Merchants examined the fish''s quality, nodded or shook their heads, applauded or exchanged quick signals with people beside them.


    There was no space for beginners to intervene.


    While I stood there stunned, the auctioneer weighed the next fish on the scale.


    ¡ªWhat''s happening now? ¡ªArceus asked Anastasia, seeing a crowd gathered around a large shark.


    ¡ªThat''s a giant shark that was recently caught ¡ªAnastasia responded with a know-it-all tone while subtly inflating her chest.


    I felt a bit worried while observing; meanwhile, Anastasia led Arceus by the hand to another place.


    ¡ªArs, let''s see if there''s something interesting.


    ¡ªOh, a saltwater fish. Why are they here nearby? This is the first time I''ve seen a live fish.


    Arceus commented upon arriving at a stand where several yellow fish could be seen in enormous rectangular wooden baskets.


    While the children enjoyed themselves without any life worries, I was constantly watching them, ensuring neither of them got lost.


    Time flew like a comet and the sun began to set, the twilight sky was simply fantastic. I looked at the sky while sighing.

 An odd coincidence

    REMI MARLOWE


    I had a strange sensation of drifting, as if I were between sleep and wakefulness. But when I finally recovered my senses, that pleasant sensation completely vanished.


    I stopped abruptly when I realized I was wandering aimlessly under the sunset.


    ¡ªWhy am I walking here? ¡ªI asked myself while confused, looking from side to side.


    I was in a place slightly removed from the habitable zone, but from my position, I could recognize that I was still within the city limits. Roswell, this beautiful bucolic city surrounded by vegetation that rose majestically at the foot of the mountains, represented the very essence of this land. Among the wealthy, Roswell was famous for its exclusive summer houses and villas.


    I vividly remembered how in spring the landscape transformed into a visual feast of multicolored flowers; how in summer the imposing waterfall attracted those seeking refuge from the heat; the spectacle of autumn with its rain of leaves that moved even the hardest soul; and the sepulchral serenity that winter brought with it. The seasons manifested here with such clarity that any tourist would be captivated regardless of the time of year.


    The villas, built in perfect harmony with the mountain town, were wooden cabins painted in various tones. From the most modest to the most sumptuous, all shared an exorbitant price - owning a property here was an undisputed synonym of wealth.


    The main street was brimming with tourist shops and on weekends came alive with crowds and ambient melodies. Despite its rural location, the commercial variety rivaled any urban center. Most opted to build in the city itself; choosing another site made you a rarity.


    While trying to locate myself, the landscape seemed vaguely familiar. I didn''t believe I had drunk so much as to lose consciousness, my mind was clear and I maintained my balance, although a certain languor persisted in my body.


    I shook my head softly. My name? Of course, Remi Marlowe. After forty-five years of being myself, it was impossible to forget.


    ?Well, that''s clear?, I thought. ?But what am I doing here?? No matter how many turns I gave it, I couldn''t understand. It didn''t seem like a sleepwalking episode, and this residential area was completely deserted. It made no sense that I had come here.


    Perhaps I had gone out walking without direction and arrived by pure inertia? The word "inertia" resonated in my mind and pulled an ironic smile from me.


    I remembered when years ago I had a house built with the genuine illusion that it would be our permanent home. I designed it thinking of the three of us, my wife, my little daughter, and myself. Although the space was perfect for a family, now only I remained. They were no longer here.The genuine version of this novel can be found on another site. Support the author by reading it there.


    My wife had succumbed to a disease with an unpronounceable long name. In simple terms, her blood vessels became obstructed by clots until causing death. It was a hereditary curse she had received from her father.


    ¡ªShe feared that if you knew, you wouldn''t want to marry a sick woman, that''s why she kept it secret ¡ªher best friend revealed to me during the funeral.


    From that moment, a question hammered incessantly in my head: ?Why? Why? WHY??.


    If only... if only she had told me... however costly it was, we would have looked for a cure together. We would have invested the last penny we had uselessly accumulated ¡ªI tortured myself with these thoughts over and over.


    It was evident that my wife had not married me for money. I met her before becoming a merchant, in that library I used to frequent. I was the one who watched her enraptured while she, the librarian, organized the new releases section.


    ¡ªI thought she was... a beautiful person ¡ªI murmured to myself¡ª. The corner of new books she cared for always had something fascinating. While I fell in love with those books, I also fell in love with her.


    That "why?" bounced millions of times in my mind until finally fading away.


    Her best friend proved to be an extraordinarily responsible person. When I had lost all spirit after my wife''s death, she took the reins with energy to take care of my daughter and me. She prepared hot meals when I didn''t even remember to feed myself, and she tenderly combed my little girl who cried, missing the braids her mother used to make her.


    Perhaps there was something of unrequited love in her actions. When my daughter fell into bed with fever and began to vomit uncontrollably, it was this friend who took her to the hospital. It was she, not I, who first knew that my little one suffered from the same disease as her mother.


    What followed happened gradually, although for me everything seemed to precipitate at a dizzying speed.


    Determined not to repeat my wife''s story, we toured countless prestigious hospitals. We prostrated ourselves before innumerable doctors, begging for help and access to experimental treatments.


    Each medicine came with its price in side effects. My daughter cried with each dose. Observing her suffering day after day tore my soul apart, I knew too well that pain of helplessness.


    No matter how many new treatments we tried, her condition continued to worsen. Finally, with all options exhausted, the doctors gave up and declared her case incurable.


    ?Could it be that my wife is calling her because she feels lonely down there??, I remembered thinking such an absurd thing repeatedly. I even pleaded in front of my wife''s tomb: ?Please, don''t take her with you?. But the dead could not answer.


    Although I was mentally shattered, the first to collapse was my wife''s best friend, who had faithfully accompanied us through all the hospitals. Exhausted from caring for my unstable daughter, she gradually distanced herself until we were truly alone, my little girl and I.


    The excess of medications transformed my daughter. Her cheeks, once like rose petals floating in milk, acquired a sickly yellowish tone. Her sweet honey-colored hair began to fall mercilessly. Seeing her like that was unbearable. Her appearance broke my heart.


    After endless fruitless discussions with doctors, we agreed to limit ourselves to painkillers. I didn''t want her last days to be full of suffering.


    Since then, there was some peace. Quiet days. I could see her smile again after so long.


    We enjoyed those brief moments of happiness that remained to us.


    The day she departed, the weather was splendid. It was an autumn where colors faded slowly. The sky was clear. From the hospital windows, the trees dyed red and yellow could be seen.


    Nearby was a decorative fountain where withered leaves floated, gliding silently. They fell, floated, and wandered on the water, grouping as if attracted by a magnet. They were remains that, even dead, looked more beautiful than ever.

 An odd coincidence (2)

    ¡ªHow beautiful! ¡ªmy daughter exclaimed¡ª. The blue of the water mixed with the yellow of the leaves is gorgeous. Hey, if I were on those leaves, do you think I could walk on the fountain without sinking?


    What an innocent idea. Actually, the leaves would give way to her weight and she would sink immediately.


    Without discouraging her, I responded in a playful tone:


    ¡ªIf you had an umbrella and used the wind, you would have more chances of achieving it, right?


    I wanted to indulge my little girl who no longer had salvation, even if just a little.


    Her eyes sparkled when she heard me.


    ¡ªI''ll show you someday! ¡ªshe promised with a radiant smile¡ª. In that lake near home. During autumn, when the leaves float on the water. Someday...


    Someday she would show me.


    Later, after multiple coughs, my daughter died suddenly. She was barely nine years old.


    Her lifeless body had been light when I hugged her. Even without a soul, she had been too light. Shedding tears, I wondered if she had really been alive at all or if I had just been having a long dream.


    I buried my daughter in the same cemetery as my wife, and then returned to the place that had been home to the three of us, resuming my life with reluctance.


    My days were nothing more than indolence, dissolute and surrendered to sadness. Humans were creatures that grew tired of things, incapable of remaining sad or happy forever. Such was our nature.


    To escape harsh reality, I had become a hardened drinker.


    When the merchant guild I was working for went bankrupt, I had been living in inertia since that moment. I was tired of my savings balance that continued to decrease, I thought I could cover my losses by gambling in casinos.


    At the moment when my delirium calmed and I could realize my own stupidity, I had already lost an enormous sum of money.


    After the war, I had looked with contempt at people who lost their purpose in life and were driven to suicide.


    But now I was exactly like those people I had despised in the past.You might be reading a stolen copy. Visit Royal Road for the authentic version.


    I couldn''t blame my wife and daughter who had died. I, who drowned my desperation in drinks, could barely maintain an honest thought in my head: ?What will I do when I have no money to buy liquor??.


    My own house had been foreclosed, so I spent all my days in a crowded mansion doing nothing.


    Being unable to be part of society bothered me, there were times when I wanted to scream. ¡ªSeriously... what am I doing in this place?


    It was then that I realized my abdomen was stained dark red.


    No, it wasn''t just the abdomen. A large wound, as if torn, extended to the tip of my shoulder and neck, fresh blood still flowing from it.


    A pool of blood had formed on the asphalt where I stood. While trembling with fear, I touched my abdomen and felt a strange slimy substance.


    Why didn''t I realize this before? And to begin with, why hadn''t I felt any pain? How did this happen to me? An instant later, my vision collapsed as if the world were upside down, and I fell right where I was standing.


    ¡ªNow I remember... Yes, I ran out of money and then... I had been to countless job interviews, sometimes receiving rejections from people who seemed to repudiate my personality and I was assaulted by an unbearable disgust.


    After some time, I received a job as a miner. The work was hard, but it had a guaranteed salary, although not large. I was thinking that if my life stabilized, I could start over.


    At that moment it was just a dream and to achieve it I had to stand firm again. However, at the moment I realized I was going to be able to achieve it, my body was engulfed with a strange agitation.


    I remembered having gone to the cemetery to visit my wife and daughter''s tombs.


    It was an embarrassing moment that day, I cried like a child and lamented my life, the devastating pain and immeasurable emptiness filled my soul.


    Wishing with all my heart that they would return to me.


    With blurred vision, I suddenly looked to one side.


    An oval object that seemed to be made of ceramic was lying on the cemetery floor. The strange thing was that it had features similar to a human face but deformed.


    It was when the brown object with a human face began to cry blood tears, making its face terrifying.


    Feeling a strange sensation I had never felt before, I looked at the sky. The landscape before me was changing at a terrifying speed.


    It seemed to be in another dimension.


    I looked at the sky and my jaw dropped when I saw a reminiscence of a surface of some planet with countless spiral points overlapping each other.


    Suddenly, the landscape of the dimension changed and what I saw was...


    The figure of my wife.


    Although her face was a bit dark, I instantly recognized her figure when she smiled softly and stretched out her hand as if wanting to reach me.


    Unconsciously, I stretched out my hand and tried to touch her hand. However, I quickly pulled back my hand when the woman''s smile horribly distorted, showing a face made completely of flesh and bones without a face.


    Nevertheless, it was already too late. I had touched one of the woman''s fingers.


    ¡ªPerhaps that was the third most unfortunate moment in my entire life.


    Upon remembering all this, the voice of desperation filtered out of my throat as I burst into tears.


    I still retained human form when my body temperature exceeded the critical point.


    My arms and legs atrophied at an incredible speed and, in a moment, multiple eyes of different sizes covered my body, all blinking and moving independently alongside an amalgam of putrid flesh and twisted bones.

 Strange dreams

    ARCES PENDRAGON


    I lay in darkness, my body immobile for so long that I had lost all notion of the passage of days. In that underground and damp place, deprived of light and company, I struggled to maintain my sanity while waiting for sensation to return to my limbs. How long has it been? Days? Weeks? Months? I no longer know. This silence, this darkness... they are driving me mad.


    One day, without warning, my fingers moved slightly. It was barely a spasm, but for me it meant the entire world. Although I could not see my face in the gloom, I imagined a smile of relief illuminating my features. Gradually, sensation spread throughout my body. Power began to flow through my veins, reactivating my senses one by one.


    "I can move! My God, I can move!" I thought I would never feel anything again. It was as if I had been dead and suddenly returned to life. The smell of dampness flooded my nostrils, confirming what I had suspected: I was underground. However, that detail was of no importance to me at that moment. The only thing that mattered was that I could feel again.


    My fingers flexed cautiously, trembling with the effort. A shiver ran through my toes as they felt the cold stone floor. I was overwhelmed by a deep gratitude for those minimal sensations that reminded me I was still alive. It''s strange to feel thankful for something as simple as being able to move my fingers or feel cold, but after so long submerged in a sensory limbo, these sensations left me breathless.


    During my captivity, I had waged an internal battle to preserve my identity and sanity. A few more days in that state and I would undoubtedly have gone completely mad. I wasn''t even sure if I hadn''t already done so.


    Happiness engulfed me as I verified that sensation was returning to my limbs. With a bit more effort, I would soon be able to move my arms and legs. However, as my senses reactivated, so did the functions of my internal organs. And with them came hunger. A sharp pain gripped my empty stomach. My mouth went completely dry, my fetid breath reminding me that I had gone days, perhaps weeks, without eating or drinking anything. I realized with horror that I was dying of starvation. If I did not obtain food soon, my options would be reduced to two: go mad or die of hunger.


    "I cannot die like this. Not after everything I''ve been through. There must be a way out of here, to survive. Think, Noah, think!"


    Anger took hold of me when I thought of the man who had locked me here. What terrible crime had I committed to deserve such punishment? Although I knew I was not exactly a saint, I also did not believe I had done anything so atrocious as to justify this torment.


    ¡ªWhat the hell did I do wrong? ¡ªI muttered with a hoarse voice from disuse.


    No matter how much I thought about it, I could not find a satisfactory answer. In this cruel world, concepts like respect for others or human dignity made no sense. Still, however insignificant, I felt I did not deserve to be treated worse than an insect. At least not if I was to be considered a human being.


    ¡ªWhy? ¡ªI asked myself once more, frustration growing inside me¡ª. Why do I have to suffer like this if I did nothing wrong?This story has been stolen from Royal Road. If you read it on Amazon, please report it


    Could it be karma punishing me for the mistakes of my previous life? For having been a scum who valued nothing and no one?


    I bit my lip so hard that the flesh tore. The metallic taste of blood flooded my mouth, warm against my parched tongue. That small reminder that I was still alive comforted me somehow.


    Gradually, I regained control of my body. I could now open and close my fingers at will, and the sensation in my feet allowed me to slowly turn my ankles. Hunger remained unbearable, but I clung to the hope provided by being able to move again.


    I know I will die of hunger if I do not get help soon, but the simple fact of being able to move my limbs gives me strength to keep fighting.


    I clung to that tiny spark of hope like a shipwrecked man to a piece of wood in the middle of the ocean. I was aware that if I lost it, I would fall into an abyss of despair from which I could never escape.


    Extreme hunger had sharpened all my senses. My nose caught smells I would have overlooked under normal circumstances: the humidity of the air, the mold growing on the walls. My ears perceived even the slightest sound, like the constant dripping of water filtering between the rocks.


    "Water. What I need most now to survive is a simple sip of that vital liquid. I would be capable of selling my soul to the devil for a drink."


    ¡ªHuh! ¡ªA rough groan escaped my cracked lips.


    My mouth was as dry as a barren field, my lips stuck together. Each breath was agony, as if they were tearing my flesh. Still, I did not stop striving to fill my lungs with air. I no longer wanted to feel hunger or thirst. I concentrated all my energy on trying to turn over.


    I struggled to transfer strength from my abdomen to my limbs. After so much time immobile, my muscles had atrophied and were as rigid as dry wood. Under different circumstances, I would have dedicated time to gradually reactivating them, but the urgency of my situation did not allow it. If I kept waiting, I would soon run out of strength. I had to move before it was too late.


    A guttural growl, more befitting a beast than a man, resonated in the darkness as I gathered the last drop of energy I had left. My body trembled slightly, a sign that my efforts were beginning to bear fruit. Excitement grew inside me and, when it reached its peak, I released all that accumulated energy in an explosion.


    ¡ªKerhyuk! ¡ªI screamed hoarsely while my body rolled over itself.


    I felt the cold stone floor against my chin and forehead. A shiver ran through me at that humid and cold sensation. After a moment to catch my breath, I began to desperately crawl towards the place where the sound of water was coming from.


    I writhed like a snake, advancing centimeter by centimeter. My jaw scraped against the ground, leaving a trail of blood, but I did not stop. Time seemed to have stopped while I fought to reach my objective. Finally, after what seemed like an eternity, my forehead hit the rocky wall.


    Disregarding the pain and the blood flowing from the wound, I stuck out my tongue and pressed it against the damp surface. A cool sensation flooded my taste buds. It was water! With desperation, I began to lick the liquid filtering through the wall. In the darkness, only the sound of my tongue licking eagerly could be heard, as if my life depended on it.


    And so it was. That small trickle of water meant the difference between life and death for me. While quenching my thirst, a spark of determination ignited within me. I had survived until now, and I was not going to give up. I would find a way out of this hell, no matter the cost.


    I continued drinking voraciously, feeling how each drop of water revitalized my battered body. As my thirst subsided, my mind began to clear. I started to think about my situation more rationally, trying to find a way out. I had survived until now, and I was not going to give up. I would find a way out of this hell, no matter the cost.


    I woke with a growl, feeling a crushing heaviness on my body. Were my concerns weighing me down? Or perhaps that horrifying dream that always haunted me? Would my burdens, the expectations placed on me, be what weighed on me even while I slept? My mind wandered, stunned by sleep and confusion.


    ¡ªBrother! Wake up!

 Strange dreams (2)

    An acute pain arose in my stomach, making my eyes snap open. My whole body convulsed at the object that fell on me, and suddenly I was completely awake, with no trace of drowsiness in my mind.


    ¡ªGood morning, brother! ¡ªa cheerful and annoying voice sounded right above me¡ª. Good morning, good morning, GOOD MORNING!


    I looked at my older sister with anger, but she returned my gaze with a mischievous smile, still lying on my stomach. I watched her as she hummed to herself with evident satisfaction, playfully kicking in the air while pretending to study the giant world map I had nailed to the wall next to my bed. I could see her watching me carefully out of the corner of her eye, waiting for my reaction.


    "This is what I get for not locking the door and placing a basic alarm perimeter around my bed," I thought with resignation.


    ¡ªGet off ¡ªI told her in the calmest voice I could maintain.


    ¡ªMom said to wake you up ¡ªshe responded naturally, without moving from her spot.


    ¡ªNot like this, she didn''t ¡ªI growled, swallowing my irritation and waiting patiently until she lowered her guard. As expected, Anastasia became visibly nervous after a few moments of my feigned disinterest. Just before she could burst out, I quickly grabbed her by the legs and chest, flipping her over the edge of the bed. She fell to the floor with a thud and a cry of indignation, and I jumped to my feet to better respond to any violence she might decide to counterattack with.


    I looked at her and snorted with disdain. ¡ªI''ll make sure to remember this the next time I''m asked to wake you up.


    ¡ªThat''s very unlikely to happen ¡ªshe replied defiantly¡ª. You always sleep more than I do.


    I sighed in defeat. ?Damn imp?, I thought, ?but she''s right about that.?


    ¡ªSo... ¡ªshe began excitedly, jumping to her feet¡ª, are you excited?


    I watched her for a moment as she bounced around my room like a caffeine-induced monkey.


    ?Sometimes I wish I had some of that unlimited energy of hers but... just a little.?


    ¡ªAbout what? ¡ªI asked innocently, feigning ignorance. I knew perfectly well what she was referring to, but constantly asking obvious questions was the quickest way to frustrate her and make her abandon a conversation I preferred not to have.


    ¡ªAbout training with me! Mom told me this morning! ¡ªshe complained, clearly aware of my strategy. ¡ªshe paused as she smiled playfully¡ª. If you ask me nicely, maybe I can teach you a spell or two.


    I let out a suffering sigh. Anastasia had always treated me like some sort of playmate, even though I did everything possible not to encourage her, but she usually stayed within certain unspoken limits. Fortunately, her summer vacation would end tomorrow and I would have some peace.


    ¡ªYes, yes. Anastasia. Mom said we would start training after lunch. Why don''t you go get your things ready?


    She looked at me with a frown and discontent for a second and then perked up, as if remembering something, and quickly ran out of the room. My eyes widened when I realized what she was doing a second too late.A case of theft: this story is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.


    ¡ªNo! ¡ªI shouted as I ran after her, but the bathroom door slammed shut in my face. I banged on the door in frustration¡ª. Damn it, Anastasia! You had all the time in the world to go to the bathroom before you woke me up!


    ¡ªToo bad to be you ¡ªwas her only response.


    After throwing a few curses at the door, I strode to my room to get dressed. I was sure she would stay there for a long time, if only to annoy me.


    I quickly took off my pajamas and took a moment to look around my room. I was pleased to notice that Anastasia hadn''t rummaged through my things before waking me up. "She has a very vague notion of privacy," I thought with some irritation.


    Once I had done my personal grooming, I went downstairs to eat something and see what my mother wanted from me. Although my family thought I simply liked to sleep in late, I actually had a reason for getting up late: it meant I could eat in peace, since everyone else had already had breakfast. Few things bothered me more than someone trying to make conversation while I ate, and that was precisely the time when the rest of my family was most talkative.


    Unfortunately, my mother wasn''t willing to wait for me that day, and she pounced on me immediately when she saw me come down. I hadn''t even finished descending the stairs and she had already discovered something about me that she didn''t like.


    ¡ªYou''re not really planning to go out to play looking like that, are you? ¡ªshe asked.


    ¡ªWhat''s wrong with this? ¡ªI asked. I was wearing a simple brown suit, a bit different from what other boys wore when they went into town. It seemed perfect to me.


    ¡ªYou can''t go out on the street looking like that ¡ªmy mother said with a sigh of resignation¡ª. What do you think people will say when they see you looking like that?


    ¡ªNothing? ¡ªI tried to say.


    ¡ªArceus, don''t be so difficult. You''re not at that age yet... ¡ªshe snapped at me¡ª. Our family is one of the pillars of this city. We''re under scrutiny every time we leave the house. I know you don''t care about these things, but appearances are important to many people. You have to realize that you''re not an island and that you can''t decide things as if you were alone in the world. You''re a member of this family and your actions inevitably reflect on our reputation. I will not allow you to go out looking like a common factory worker. Go back to your room and put on some proper clothes.


    I held back from rolling my eyes long enough to turn my back on her. Still, it wasn''t worth arguing, so I put on a more expensive outfit. It was totally excessive, considering I would spend all day on the grass watching the sky, but my mother nodded with approval when she saw me come down the stairs.


    She made me turn and pose like a show animal for a while before declaring me "quite decent." I went to the kitchen and, to my displeasure, my mother followed me. Apparently, I wouldn''t be eating in peace today.


    I entered the kitchen and frowned when I saw that a bowl of oatmeal was already waiting for me on the table. I normally prepared my own breakfast and liked it that way, but I knew my mother never accepted it.


    ¡ªI thought I''d prepare something for you today, and I know you''ve always liked porridge ¡ªshe said. I refrained from mentioning that I hadn''t liked it since I was two years old¡ª. However, you slept longer than I thought you would. It got cold while I was waiting for you.


    I rolled my eyes when she slightly warmed the porridge with a flame on her fingers, which instantly brought it back to a pleasant temperature.


    I ate breakfast in silence while my mother talked at length about a crop-related dispute involving one of her suppliers, circling around any topic she wanted to address.


    Fortunately, my mother didn''t give importance to my silence, because I was always as quiet as possible with my family.


    ¡ªMother ¡ªI interrupted her¡ª, I just woke up because Anastasia jumped on me, I haven''t had time to go to the bathroom, and now you''re bothering me while I eat.


    ¡ªDid she do it again? ¡ªmy mother asked, with evident amusement in her voice.


    I rubbed my eyes without saying anything before surreptitiously saving an apple from the bowl that was on the table while my mother wasn''t looking. There were many annoying things that Anastasia did over and over again, but complaining about it to my mother was a waste of time.


    ¡ªDon''t be like that ¡ªmy mother said, noticing my unhappy reaction¡ª. She''s bored and trying to play with you. You take things too seriously, just like your father.


    I ignored her comment and returned to my breakfast with renewed vigor.

 Combat practice

    After breakfast, I was studying.


    When I turned five, mom started my education. I learned to write polite sentences, mathematics, and, intermittently, history. I should have started by memorizing letters, but since I already mastered them, I quickly rose in rank. Further inside the study, Anastasia worked quietly.


    Anastasia loved studying, that was incredible. She was only nine years old, but she could perform divisions with surprising precision. She carefully observed the numbers and wrote the answers with a fluidity that amazed me.


    I find it annoying how her recent growth had made her even more attractive. In the future, there would be many flies around her.


    Currently, her popularity among the children and boys in the city was steadily rising. But then I remember that this is a world where marrying early was completely natural.


    And the creator of the questions and supervisor is our mother, Adelaide. As an elf, numbers came naturally to her. As she knew the importance of writing and mathematics, she was quite strict with teaching.


    ¡ªAl, what''s wrong? Is it too difficult?


    "This is boring... I want to play," I thought to myself.


    It wasn''t difficult, since I could solve it easily. The problem is that I feared there would be more. I was waiting for the magic words that would awaken a child''s motivation.


    ¡ªI know you want to play, but studying is also important...


    ?I know. Studying also protects me and makes me better?, I knew it very well.


    Seeing me fall, Adelaide sighed.


    ?Huh? This makes me feel like a bad child?, I thought with an ironic smile.


    No, but if I''m five years old, this is completely natural, isn''t it?The narrative has been illicitly obtained; should you discover it on Amazon, report the violation.


    ¡ªThen if you can solve it, you can go play.


    ¡ªAlright, yes! ¡ªI replied with a broad smile.


    The pen felt lighter to me and I quickly filled the paper with numbers.


    ?Is it quite difficult today...?? mother questioned with a mysterious smile.


    I had been found out.


    ¡ªReally! Today is hard! ¡ªIt seemed like a lie but it wasn''t. Taking into account the previous classes, it certainly was more difficult.


    ¡ªFinished! ¡ªI said with a smile while getting up.


    ¡ªYoung master, haven''t we checked the answer yet? ¡ªMel interrupted me.


    When I was about to leave the room after handing in the paper, I was caught by Mel, who was standing and waiting.


    Lately I felt that the maids treated me roughly.


    Last time, Mira grabbed me by the nape of the neck. They returned me to the desk like a cat.


    Adelaide checked my answers with a serious expression, got up a few minutes later and let out a big sigh.


    ¡ªIt''s okay. You can go.


    Her expression was a bit uncomfortable, but I didn''t care.


    ¡ªYes!


    ¡ªEh...! Ars, you going alone, that''s unfair!


    While listening to Anastasia''s cute complaints, I left the study room (prison).


    "Ah... I didn''t know the air of the world was so sweet. Maybe this was how a person who left prison felt," I reflected.


    ¡ªHave you finished studying already? ¡ªI heard Atlas''s voice.


    ¡ªYes, I solved them quickly, so I finished early. So I''m going to play now..., ¡ªI responded innocently.


    ¡ªI see. Dad just finished working too. Let''s practice now!


    After hearing only half of what I said, Atlas took my hand and started walking toward the courtyard.


    ¡ªHuh? But training is after lunch.


    ¡ªIt''s okay. Your body must have become stiff from sitting for so long, right? Let''s train together from time to time.


    The training field stretched out before us, a vast open space surrounded by a forest of trees. The ground was covered with soft grass, gently swayed by the morning breeze.


    In the center of the field, a circle of stones caught my attention. Each one was engraved with symbols that glowed softly under the sunlight.


    Well, communication with my parents is also important. My magic training is going well, so why not put some effort into the spear?


    There was a time when I thought that.


    ¡ªYour hand is stiff, relax here and when lowering.


    ¡ªYes.


    ¡ªNo. Lower your elbow.


    ¡ªYes.


    ¡ªDon''t swing just with your arms.


    ¡ªYes.


    ¡ªNow, strike one hundred times.


    ¡ª...Yes.


    They corrected my posture many times, but somehow I managed to finish it before lunch.


    Aah, the meaning of finishing studying early made sense now.


    ¡ªYou''re better. I''ll go slower at noon, let''s do our best.


    ¡ªSo we''ll do it at noon too... ¡ªI muttered in disbelief.


    After lunch I headed back to the courtyard.


    Where Anastasia and I would practice our skills.

 Combat practice (2)

    I followed my sister to the center of the circle with sweaty hands. On one hand, I was eager to learn and show what I could do. On the other hand, I knew Anastasia was much stronger than me and I feared making a fool of myself. I shook my head while breathing deeply.


    ?Come on Arceus, don''t be a coward. It''s just training with your older sister. Although... what if she completely humiliates me??


    I shook my head as I advanced, seeing out of the corner of my eye how Atlas and Adelaide retreated to the edge of the field. I knew they were watching us carefully, evaluating every movement.


    ?Great, more pressure.?


    ¡ªAre you ready, Ars? ¡ªasked Anastasia, with her hands on her hips. She radiated a confidence that I simply envied.


    I nodded while giving her a crooked smile, trying to show a seriousness that I didn''t entirely feel. ¡ªI''m always ready, Ana ¡ªI replied, my voice sounding smaller than I would have liked.


    ?Damn it, why does my voice have to sound like that? I sound like a scared mouse.?


    From the side of the field, I heard Atlas''s deep voice: ¡ªYou may begin.


    In an instant, the air around Anastasia began to vibrate. Small whirlwinds formed around her, making the fallen leaves dance on the ground. Her control over the element was impressive.


    ¡ªGet ready, Arceus ¡ªshe warned, her smile widening in a way that made my lips tremble.


    ?Oh, I know that smile. This is going to hurt.? I took a deep breath, closing my eyes for a moment. I concentrated all my energy, seeking that core of power that I knew existed within me.


    When I opened my eyes again, I felt a weak bluish aura emanating from my body. It was barely perceptible, but it was there.


    Anastasia wasted no time. With a movement of her hand, she sent a gust of wind towards me. I barely had time to raise my arms in defense before the wind hit me, pushing me back several steps.


    Keep your balance, don''t let it knock you down. I gritted my teeth, fighting against the force of the wind. My mind was working at full speed, remembering my father''s lessons. Stay calm, analyze the situation, and look for an opening.


    Tensing my muscles, I managed to take a step forward, then another. The wind roared around me, but I refused to yield. I fixed my eyes on Anastasia, looking for any sign of weakness.


    ¡ªNot bad, Arceus ¡ªshe said, increasing the wind''s intensity¡ª. But what will you do now?


    I didn''t respond. Instead, I closed my eyes again, concentrating with all my might. I felt how the blue aura around me intensified slightly. I extended my hands forward, visualizing what I wanted to create.


    ?Come on, water. Respond to my call. I need your help?. A small ball of water formed between my palms, trembling unstably when I threw it at Anastasia.


    However, my sister easily dodged the attack, but her eyes opened a bit. ¡ªWow! When did you learn to do that? ¡ªshe asked with a brazen smile.


    I was panting from exhaustion, but I couldn''t help a small smile forming on my lips. ¡ªI''ve been practicing ¡ªI replied between broken breaths.


    This time, instead of a constant gust of wind, she sent a series of compressed air projectiles towards me.


    ?Oh, no. This is going to hurt.?


    I did my best to dodge, moving my small body with all the agility I could gather. But it wasn''t enough. I couldn''t avoid all the attacks. One hit me in the shoulder, making me stagger. Another grazed my leg, leaving a small red mark that burned.Unauthorized duplication: this tale has been taken without consent. Report sightings.


    Ouch! Damn it, that hurts. I gritted my teeth, refusing to show pain. I concentrated all my energy on my next move. I felt how the blue aura around me intensified even more, and the air around my hands began to condense into small water droplets.


    ?Come on, one more time. I can do better this time.?  With that thought, I launched a series of water projectiles at Anastasia. They were small and not very powerful, but I felt proud of having managed to create so many at once.


    To my surprise and satisfaction, the quantity and speed caught Anastasia off guard. I saw her move quickly to avoid being hit.


    ¡ªThat''s it, Arceus! ¡ªshe exclaimed, her voice full of excitement¡ª. Show me everything you''ve got!


    Her words encouraged me as I redoubled my efforts, continuing my attack with water projectiles. With each launch, I tried to make them a bit bigger and faster. But the effort was starting to take its toll. My breathing became more laborious, and I felt drops of sweat forming on my forehead.


    I was reaching my limit. I didn''t know how much longer I could maintain this.


    Anastasia, for her part, didn''t seem affected. I saw her move with grace and ease, dodging my attacks as if she were dancing with the wind. From time to time, she counterattacked with her own air projectiles, forcing me to stay on the defensive.


    Meanwhile, I was here, panting like a dog.


    As the combat continued, I realized how large the difference in skill and experience was between us. While I struggled to maintain my pace, Anastasia seemed to be playing, her smile never leaving her face.


    Finally, after what seemed like an eternity, Anastasia decided to end the combat. With a fluid movement of her hands, she created a whirlwind around me, lifting me off the ground.


    ?Oh, no. Not again. I hate when she does this!?


    I fought against the wind with all my strength, desperately trying to break free. But I was exhausted, and my control over water had vanished.


    In one last effort, I managed to form a small water bubble around my head before the whirlwind completely enveloped me. At least I won''t drown.


    For a few seconds, everything was chaos of wind and confusion. Then, as suddenly as it had begun, the whirlwind dissipated. I fell to the ground, landing on my hands and knees, panting heavily.


    Well, that was humiliating. But at least I managed to maintain that water bubble. It''s something, isn''t it?


    ¡ªEnd of combat! ¡ªannounced Atlas, his voice resonating across the field.


    Anastasia ran towards me immediately. Through my blurry vision, I could see the concern on her face.


    ¡ªAre you okay, Arceus? ¡ªshe asked, kneeling beside me.


    No, I''m not okay. Everything hurts and my pride is on the floor. But I can''t say that, can I?


    I nodded slowly, still trying to catch my breath. ¡ªI''m... fine ¡ªI managed to say between pants, although I wasn''t sure if it was true. I felt exhausted, sore, and, above all, frustrated.


    Adelaide and Atlas approached us. I felt my mother''s hands on me, emanating a soft green light while she examined me for injuries.


    Mom''s touch always felt good. Warm and comforting. I wish she could heal my bruised ego too.


    ¡ªYou did very well, Arceus ¡ªsaid Atlas while raising his eyebrows¡ª. You''ve shown great progress.


    ?Progress? Really? I don''t feel like I''ve progressed at all.?


    I looked up at my father while shaking my head. The frustration and disappointment with myself were overwhelming.


    ¡ªBut... but it wasn''t enough ¡ªI said, my voice sounding small and weak even to my own ears as I lowered my head¡ª. I couldn''t win.


    ?Great, now I sounded like a whiny child.?


    I felt Anastasia''s hand on my shoulder. ¡ªHey, don''t get discouraged ¡ªshe said with a warm smile¡ª. You did amazing. Those water projectiles were impressive. I didn''t even know you could do that!


    Adelaide finished her examination, gently stroking my hair. ¡ªYour sister is right, darling ¡ªshe said while gently lifting my chin with her hand. She looked at me intently before her eyes curved into half-moons¡ª. You''ve progressed a lot in a short time. You should be proud of yourself.


    I nodded slowly, but the frustration was still there, burning in my chest. ¡ªBut I want to be stronger ¡ªI said with slumped shoulders¡ª. I want to be able to protect all of you.


    Atlas knelt in front of me, his red eyes looking directly into mine. ¡ªAnd you will be ¡ªhe said firmly¡ª, but these things take time. You can''t expect to master in a few months what takes others years to learn. Patience and perseverance are as important as strength and skill.


    "Time. It''s always a matter of time. But what if I don''t have time? What if something bad happens and I''m not ready to protect them?"


    I looked at my father while pressing my lips. Gradually, I felt the frustration beginning to give way to determination. They were right, I couldn''t give up just because it was difficult.


    ¡ªI understand ¡ªI sighed, resigned.


    Anastasia smiled widely, hugging me tightly. ¡ªThat''s the spirit! ¡ªshe exclaimed¡ª. And I''ll be here to help you every step of the way. After all, what kind of big sister would I be if I didn''t help you reach your potential?


    Her smile was contagious, and I couldn''t help but smile too. I looked at my parents, who were watching us with expressions of affection and love. In that moment, despite the exhaustion and pain, I felt fortunate and loved.

 Pollutants

    The sun had reached its zenith, bathing the training field in bright, warm light. I stood up, feeling my body trembling slightly. Despite the fatigue, I felt a renewed determination burning inside me.


    Anastasia''s smile was radiant when she asked: ¡ªReady for another round?


    ?Another round? Are you a machine??


    However, before I could accept, something changed. The air became heavy, charged with an energy that made the hair on the back of my neck stand up. The sky, previously clear and bright, began to darken as if a storm was forming.


    ?What was happening? This didn''t feel normal. Something was wrong, very wrong.?


    I saw Atlas and Adelaide become alert immediately. Fear took hold of me when I heard my mother shout: ¡ªChildren, come here!


    Anastasia and I ran towards our parents. I could feel the fear growing in my chest, threatening to drown me. ¡ªWhat''s happening, mom? ¡ªI heard Anastasia ask, her voice trembling slightly.


    ?Oh no. If even Anastasia was scared, this must be really bad.?


    Before Adelaide could respond, I saw how the air in front of us began to distort. A shiver ran down my spine.


    ?What is that? It looks like... No, it can''t be. Please, don''t let it be what I think it is.?


    Suddenly, the air shuddered with a deafening roar that made the foundations of our mansion tremble. I froze in place, feeling how terror paralyzed me. My eyes opened wide, unable to process what I was seeing.


    In the distance, on the horizon, a colossal and grotesque figure rose against the sky. It was enormous, bigger than anything I had seen before. Its body was an amalgamation of putrid flesh and twisted bones that rose above the tallest trees in the forest.


    ?How can something like this exist? How can we even fight against that?? Multiple eyes of different sizes covered its body, all blinking and moving independently. From what appeared to be its mouth emanated a nauseating stench that I could smell even at this distance. Viscous and putrid tentacles writhed around it, knocking down century-old trees as if they were mere twigs.


    I wanted to vomit. I wanted to run. I wanted to hide. But I couldn''t move. I was paralyzed by fear.Unlawfully taken from Royal Road, this story should be reported if seen on Amazon.


    The creature emanated an aura of evil so intense that I felt my stomach turn. Never before had I felt such fear.


    ¡ªA Contaminant ¡ªI heard Atlas mutter, raising his eyebrows slightly¡ª. And a powerful one. Nightmare Level, Emperor grade.


    My father''s words resonated in my mind. I remembered the lessons about Contaminants: how they were born as Digesters, their baby form, to then become Contaminants and these evolve into Nightmares. Many believed that Nightmares were comparable to B-grade Ascendants, but at that moment, seeing that monstrosity, I knew they were enormously wrong.


    But then, in the midst of my panic, I felt a firm hand on my shoulder. It was Atlas, my father. His face was serious, but there was no fear in his eyes, that gave me a glimmer of hope.


    ¡ªArceus, Anastasia, I want you to listen carefully. What you''re seeing is an Emperor-grade Nightmare. It''s a formidable enemy, but it''s not invincible.


    Adelaide approached us, her face showed a calmness that contrasted with the chaos around us. ¡ªChildren ¡ªshe said softly with a smile¡ª, I know you''re scared. It''s natural to be afraid in front of an enemy like this. But remember: fear is just an emotion. Don''t let it paralyze you.


    Her words penetrated the fog of terror that clouded my mind. I breathed deeply, trying to calm my racing heart. They were right, I couldn''t let fear control me. ¡ªAtlas, take the children to the mansion. I''ll handle this.


    Dad nodded, taking me and Anastasia in his arms. ¡ªBe careful.


    Mom smiled, a smile that seemed out of place in the current situation. ¡ªI always am, ¡ªshe responded, before turning towards the contaminant.


    While dad flew towards the mansion with us, I couldn''t take my eyes off mom. I saw her advance towards the Nightmare carelessly. As she moved away from the mansion, I felt how the air around us began to charge with energy.


    ?What was mom going to do? I had never seen her like this.? The Nightmare, sensing mom''s presence, let out another roar that made the earth tremble. Its tentacles thrashed violently, ripping trees from their roots and throwing them through the air as if they were toys. One of these trees flew directly towards our mansion.


    Dad extended his hands and a barrier of golden energy materialized in front of us. The tree disintegrated on contact, turning into a shower of splinters that fell harmlessly to the ground. ¡ªStay close, ¡ªdad said in a grave voice.


    Meanwhile, mom had stopped about a hundred meters from the Nightmare. She looked small in front of that monster that measured more than 20 meters, but there was something in her posture that could only betray an unshakeable confidence.


    ?Mom... You''ll be alright, won''t you??


    The Nightmare roared, a sound that made the earth itself tremble. It extended its tentacles toward mom, each one as thick as the trunk of a century-old tree. My heart was beating hard, while my lips trembled with fear.


    Mom didn''t even blink. With a fluid movement of her hand, she created a barrier of pure energy in front of her. The tentacles crashed against the barrier with enough force to split mountains, but the barrier didn''t even shake.


    Suddenly, the air around mom changed. An immense pressure fell over the area, as if gravity itself had multiplied by a hundred. I felt it was hard to breathe, even at the distance where I was.


    ?What was happening? Was this my mother''s power??


    [Domain Expansion: Requiem of Stars (S)]

 Pollutants (2)

    [Domain Expansion: Requiem of Stars (S)]


    At that instant, a sphere of bright blue energy sprouted from mom''s body, rapidly expanding in all directions. The sphere grew and grew, engulfing everything in its path: trees, rocks, even the air itself seemed to distort within it.


    In a matter of seconds, the sphere had reached a diameter of a thousand meters, enclosing mom and the Nightmare along with us and all the surrounding area inside it.


    I observed the scene while my pupils contracted. It was as if the world had stopped, as if everything else had ceased to exist except for that sphere of pure energy.


    ¡ªThis is mom''s domain, ¡ªAnastasia spoke with bright and shining eyes¡ª. It''s beautiful.


    And it was. I watched how the landscape inside the dome began to change. The dark sky cleared, revealing a firmament full of bright stars. The ground, previously cracked and destroyed by the contaminant''s advance, was covered with green grass and flowers of all colors. The air, which moments before had been charged with a nauseating stench, filled with the fresh aroma of a forest after rain.


    Inside the sphere, the world seemed to have changed completely. The sky had turned an intense blue, almost electric, and the air seemed to vibrate with pure energy. Mom, at the center of it all, shone with a sapphire aura that made her hair and clothes ripple as if she were submerged in water.


    The Nightmare, finding itself trapped in mom''s Domain Expansion, roared again, its voice filled with fury at being cornered. Its tentacles thrashed violently, hitting against the walls of the energy sphere, but failing to break through them.


    It tried to counterattack, launching waves of dark energy against mom.


    Mom, however, didn''t seem worried. With a confident smile, she raised both hands.


    With a gesture of her hands, the stars in her domain''s sky began to shine more intensely. Rays of pure light descended, striking the contaminant from all angles. Each impact pushed back the darkness, purifying the affected area.


    The contaminant roared in pain and fury, its tentacles whipping the air in a desperate attempt to defend itself. But it was useless. In mom''s domain, her power was supreme.


    The battle, if it could be called that, lasted barely a few seconds. With each passing second, the Nightmare shrank, its monstrous form disintegrating under the relentless assault of divine light.


    Finally, with a last agonizing scream, the Nightmare vanished, leaving behind only a small puddle of black liquid that quickly evaporated under the light of mom''s stars.


    The Domain Expansion remained for a few moments more, ensuring that no trace of the contaminant''s corruption remained, before gently fading away, returning the landscape to its normal state.


    Then, I realized, the domain barrier isolated the area from the outside world, which meant that the damage occurring inside the barrier wouldn''t be reflected in the real world.The tale has been illicitly lifted; should you spot it on Amazon, report the violation.


    Mom turned towards us, the smile never leaving her face. ¡ªWell, that was a good exercise, ¡ªshe said, as if she had just finished a light training session and not defeated a monstrosity capable of destroying cities.


    I was speechless, my mind trying to process what I had just witnessed. I had seen my mother, whom I had always admired but never seen in action, defeat such a creature with an ease that defied comprehension.


    ¡ªThat was incredible! ¡ªexclaimed Anastasia, running toward mom and hugging her tightly¡ª. Mom, you''re amazing!


    Adelaide laughed softly, stroking Anastasia''s hair.


    Dad approached with a slight smile on his face. ¡ªImpressive as always, my love.


    ¡ªWell, ¡ªsaid mom, breaking the moment¡ª, I think after all this excitement, we deserve a good dinner. How about we go inside and celebrate that our incredible mother and wife just saved the day?


    We all nodded happily, the danger already forgotten at the prospect of a meal together.


    With a smile, I followed my family, my mind already planning how to intensify my training. After all, I had great examples to follow.


    Finally, we reached the mansion. The servants received us with expressions of relief and concern.


    ¡ªWe''re fine, ¡ªmom assured with a reassuring voice¡ª. The threat has been neutralized. Please, prepare dinner. It''s been a long day and we all need to recover our energy.


    While the servants hurried to fulfill the orders, we headed to our respective rooms to refresh ourselves and change. I entered my room, closing the door behind me and leaning against it with a sigh.


    My room, with its soft sky-blue walls and light wood furniture, had always been my refuge. But now, after the day''s events, even this familiar space seemed different. Smaller, perhaps, or simply less safe than I used to think.


    I prepared for dinner, took a quick shower, washing away the sweat and tension of the day, and dressed in clean clothes. When I was ready, I went down to the dining room.


    The rest of the family was already there, seated around the large oak table. Despite the day''s events, the atmosphere was surprisingly light. Anastasia chatted animatedly, with bright and shining eyes while describing the battle from her perspective.


    ¡ªAnd then mom went ''whoosh''! ¡ªshe exclaimed, waving her arms to emphasize her words¡ª. And that horrible thing went ''grrrr''! It was incredible!


    Mom laughed softly, while dad smiled. The aroma of the dishes filled the air, making my stomach growl. I hadn''t realized how hungry I was until that moment. There was vegetable soup, herb-roasted lamb, freshly baked bread, and a variety of saut¨¦ed vegetables. For dessert, there was fruit tart and vanilla ice cream.


    Wow, everything smells delicious. I guess facing a Nightmare opens up the appetite. As we ate, conversation flowed freely. Anastasia was still excited about the battle, asking questions about the techniques she had seen.


    ¡ªMom, how did you make your Domain Expansion so big? ¡ªshe asked between bites of lamb¡ª. It covered hundreds of meters!


    Mom smiled, taking a sip of her wine before responding. ¡ªIt''s the result of years of practice and training, honey. Domain Expansion is a very advanced technique that requires precise control of stellar energy.


    ¡ªI want to learn how to do it!


    ¡ªAll in good time, little one, ¡ªdad intervened with a smile¡ª. First you must master the basics. Domain Expansion isn''t something to be taken lightly.


    Dinner continued in a warm and cheerful atmosphere. Despite the day''s events, or perhaps because of them, we felt more united than ever. After everything that happened today, here we were, dining as if nothing had happened. But it felt good. It felt... safe.


    Anastasia, despite her seemingly infinite energy, was now yawning widely. Mom stood up and took my older sister by the hand.


    ¡ªCome on, honey, ¡ªshe said softly¡ª. It''s time for bed.


    I also stood up, before leaving the dining room, I stopped and looked at my parents.


    ¡ªThank you, ¡ªI said simply¡ª. For everything.


    Mom and dad smiled. ¡ªThere''s nothing to thank us for, son, ¡ªdad replied¡ª. We''re a family, we''ll always be here for you.


    With those comforting words resonating in my mind, I climbed the stairs to my room. I prepared for bed, brushing my teeth and putting on my favorite pajamas.


    While I got into bed, the full moon bathed the landscape with its silver light, in the distance, I could see the magical fireflies beginning to appear, their soft flashes like fallen stars. I closed my eyes, letting fatigue overtake me.

 A daughter, a sister and a friend

    ANASTASIA PENDRAGON


    The first rays of sunlight filtered through the silk curtains, softly illuminating my room. I stirred between the sheets, feeling my long silver hair spread over the pillow like a bright halo. My red eyes opened slowly, blinking to adjust to the dawn light.


    I sat up, stretching my arms toward the ceiling with a yawn. A mischievous smile drew across my face as my thoughts turned to my younger brother, Arceus.


    ''Time to wake up the sleepyhead,'' with that thought I jumped out of bed with seemingly inexhaustible energy. At least with him, I could be myself without worrying.


    With stealthy steps, I slipped through the family mansion''s hallway until I reached Arceus''s room. I carefully opened the door, containing a giggle at the sight of the motionless lump under the blankets. I approached on tiptoe, preparing my surprise attack.


    ¡ªWake up, brother! ¡ªI shouted, jumping on the bed and landing next to Arceus.


    ¡ªOof! ¡ªArceus grunted, and the air was forcefully expelled from his lungs when I fell on him.


    Rubbing his sore sternum, he gasped: ¡ªAna, you''re older than me. One day you''re really going to hurt me.


    ¡ªAre you calling me fat, brother? ¡ªI pretended to gasp, making a pout.


    Was I really growing too fast?, I wondered for an instant.


    ¡ªExtremely ¡ªadded Arceus, pushing me. I let out a squeal of surprise when he started tickling me, I couldn''t help but squirm with laughter. After surrendering between tears of laughter, Arceus turned around and went to the bathroom.


    Having completed my task of the day, I returned to my room to get ready. I dressed in an elegant sky-blue dress, a gift from my mother, and brushed my long silver hair until it shone like moonlight.


    Looking at myself in the mirror, I practiced my most radiant smile, making sure there were no cracks in my facade.


    ¡ªToday will be a good day ¡ªI told myself, ignoring the small twinge of anxiety I felt in my stomach¡ª. It will be a perfect day.


    I couldn''t allow myself to doubt, not now. I had to be strong, had to be brilliant, had to be... perfect.


    I went down the stairs jumping. The aroma of breakfast filled the air, guiding me to the dining room where my parents were already seated. My mother, Adelaide, looked up from her cup of tea.This novel is published on a different platform. Support the original author by finding the official source.


    ¡ªGood morning, darling ¡ªshe greeted with a warm smile¡ª. Did you sleep well?


    My father grunted a greeting from behind a parchment he was reading.


    ¡ªI slept wonderfully, mom! ¡ªI replied with a wide and genuine smile, sitting in my usual place¡ª. And I woke up Arceus as always!


    Adelaide laughed softly. ¡ªI hope you weren''t too hard on your brother, dear.


    ¡ªOh, not at all ¡ªI said with an innocent smile that fooled no one.


    Moments later, Arceus entered the dining room, still rubbing his sleepy eyes. He sat next to me, shooting me a glaring look before smiling and starting to eat his breakfast.


    ¡ªAre you ready for another day at school, little one? ¡ªasked my father, looking at me over the parchment.


    I felt my muscles tense, but I disguised it with a bright smile. ¡ªOf course, dad! I can''t wait to learn new things!


    ''Liar, you''re terrified. Terrified of being... different.''


    My mother pursed her lips and looked at me with some concern. ¡ªRemember, darling, you don''t have to...


    ¡ªI know, mom ¡ªI interrupted her, knowing what she was going to say¡ª. I don''t have to prove anything to anyone. I just want to give my best.


    My parents exchanged a look I couldn''t decipher.


    After breakfast, I said goodbye to my family with hugs and kisses.


    I left the mansion and began my way to school. The sun shone high, illuminating the streets with a golden light. The trees whispered with the gentle breeze, and the aroma of flowers filled the air.


    As I walked, I noticed the looks from other children who were also heading to school. Some observed me with amazement, others with admiration, and I could feel something else... resentment? I tried to ignore those looks, focusing on maintaining my bright smile and light step.


    Unintentionally, I caught fragments of their conversations.


    ¡ªThere goes the genius...


    ¡ªThink she''ll make us look ridiculous again today?


    ¡ªWhy does she have to be so perfect at everything?


    I felt my heart sink, but I maintained my radiant smile. I couldn''t let them see how much those comments affected me. I had to be strong, had to be brilliant, had to be... perfect.


    ¡ªHello, Anastasia! ¡ªgreeted a familiar voice, interrupting my thoughts. It was Liam, a human boy from my class, running to catch up with me.


    ¡ªHi, Liam! ¡ªI responded, genuinely happy to see a friendly face¡ª. Ready for another exciting day?


    Liam nodded, but I noticed a flash of something in his eyes. Nervousness? Insecurity?


    ¡ªI guess ¡ªhe said, shrugging¡ª. Though I doubt it''ll be as exciting for me as it is for you.


    I felt my smile crack. It had never been my intention to make others feel less.


    ¡ªOh, come on ¡ªI said, trying to sound cheerful and carefree¡ª. I''m sure we''ll learn something fascinating today! Remember that time when the teacher taught us about constellations? It was amazing!


    Liam smiled weakly, but I could see his interest wasn''t entirely genuine.


    Upon arriving at school, an imposing white stone building with towers that rose toward the sky, I paused for a moment.


    ¡ªI can do this ¡ªI told myself quietly¡ª. I''m Anastasia Pendragon, daughter of Adelaide and Atlas. I''m strong. I''m intelligent. I''m...


    ¡ªAnastasia! ¡ªThe voice of my best friend, Sophie, interrupted my thoughts. The human girl with brown hair and green eyes was running toward me, with a smile on her face. For a moment, all my worries vanished. Here was someone who saw me for who I really was, not just as the genius or the prodigy.


    ¡ªSophie! ¡ªI exclaimed, hugging her¡ª. I''m so happy to see you!


    ¡ªMe too ¡ªshe responded, but I noticed a slight hesitation in her voice. Before I could ask about it, the bell rang, announcing the start of classes.

 A daughter, a sister and a friend (2)

    ¡ªLet''s go ¡ªsaid Sophie, taking my hand¡ª. We don''t want to be late.


    The sunlight filtered through the silk curtains of the classroom, bathing the polished wooden desks in a golden light. I sat in the front row, as always, with my eyes fixed on the teacher while he taught. I could feel my eyes shining intensely, absorbing every word like a sponge thirsty for knowledge. Human knowledge was fascinating.


    Around me, I noticed that other students struggled to stay awake. Some were absently doodling in their notebooks, others were looking out the window longing for the end of class. But I was completely immersed in the lesson, my hand constantly rising to answer questions or add comments.


    ¡ªExcellent observation, Miss Anastasia ¡ªsaid the teacher with an approving smile¡ª. As always, your understanding of the subject is impressive.


    From the corner of my eye, I noticed how some of my classmates rolled their eyes or whispered among themselves. I shifted uncomfortably, wishing for a moment to be invisible. I tried to ignore them, focusing on the satisfaction of having answered correctly.


    I wasn''t doing anything wrong, I was just being myself, right? When the bell rang announcing recess, I gathered my books with a bright smile. I turned to Sophie, hoping to share my excitement about the fascinating lesson we had just had.


    ¡ªWasn''t the explanation about fractional numbers incredible? ¡ªI exclaimed, with raised eyebrows¡ª. I had never thought of solving them that way!


    Sophie simply shrugged while putting away her things. ¡ªI guess ¡ªshe mumbled without much enthusiasm.


    I frowned, noticing my friend''s lack of interest. ¡ªAre you okay, Sophie? You seem a bit... distant.


    Sophie sighed, closing her backpack with more force than necessary. ¡ªI''m fine ¡ªshe said dryly¡ª. Let''s go to the playground.


    Already in the playground, Sophie and I sat in our usual spot, under a large oak tree that provided us with shade. The air was filled with laughter and shouts from other children playing, but an uncomfortable silence had settled between us.


    ¡ªSophie ¡ªI began, determined to break the tension¡ª, are you sure you''re okay? You seem upset about something.


    Sophie fidgeted with a fallen leaf, avoiding my gaze. Finally, she looked up, her eyebrows were furrowed and her lips pressed together.Stolen from its rightful place, this narrative is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.


    ¡ªYou want to know what''s wrong with me, Anastasia? ¡ªSophie snapped¡ª. I''m tired. Tired of feeling like a shadow beside you. Tired of everything always revolving around you and your ''brilliant intellect''.


    I felt my pupils trembling. I stood there gaping, surprised by my best friend''s sudden outburst. ¡ªI... I don''t understand ¡ªI stammered¡ª. What are you talking about?


    Sophie let out a bitter laugh. ¡ªOf course you don''t understand. How could you? You''re Anastasia, the genius, the prodigy. Everything comes so easily to you, so naturally.


    I knew it, I had always known it. I was different, and that made others feel bad. Why... Sophie? I expected this from anyone but you...


    ¡ªI... I don''t want to make anyone feel bad ¡ªI said with trembling lips¡ª. I''m just being myself, Sophie. Is that so wrong?


    ¡ªBeing yourself? ¡ªshe replied, her voice rising¡ª. Have you stopped to think how that affects the rest of us? Every time you raise your hand in class, every time the teacher praises you, every time you solve a problem in seconds... you make us feel like we''re stupid, like we''re worth nothing. Like we''re trash.


    My skin bristled with shivers and I felt my spirit split in two. Her words hit me like a punch to the stomach. I felt short of breath, and I bit my lower lip hard.


    ¡ªThat has never been my intention, Sophie. I just... I get excited about what I learn. I want to share it, I want to...


    ¡ªWant what? ¡ªshe interrupted¡ª. To prove how smart you are? To show us how inferior we are compared to you?


    I felt tears beginning to well up in my eyes.


    ¡ªNo! ¡ªI shook my head hard, clenching my jaw while tears were already running down my cheeks¡ª. I just want to learn, I want to understand the world!


    ¡ªThat''s the problem! ¡ªSophie shouted, attracting the attention of some of our nearby classmates¡ª. You ''being yourself'' makes us feel like we''re nothing. You''re so wrapped up in your own world of brilliance that you don''t see what''s happening around you.


    An emotion I had never felt before, something completely new was taking over me, it took all my power not to lose control.


    I had never considered how my natural talent and passion for learning could affect others. I had always assumed that everyone shared my enthusiasm for knowledge.


    ¡ªI... I''m sorry ¡ªI whispered as I lowered my head with slumped shoulders, pressing my lips tightly, The pressure I felt in my chest was suffocating me.


    ¡ªI''m supposed to be your best friend, but sometimes I feel like I can barely breathe beside you because I''m so busy trying to catch up to you. ¡ªShe paused as her voice broke, her eyes shining with contained sobs, as if she had released everything she had kept in her chest¡ª. Sometimes it doesn''t feel that way, Anastasia. Sometimes I feel like I''m just another person who''s there to admire you, to applaud your achievements while I fall behind.


    I remained silent, while bringing my hands to my chest, I lowered my head and my clouded eyes focused on the ground, I began to cry with rage, with sadness. I felt humiliated for having believed that Sophie was my best friend.


    I wanted to explain, wanted to defend myself, but how could I do it without invalidating Sophie''s feelings?


    I had always valued our friendship, had considered it a fundamental pillar in my life. Discovering that Sophie felt this way, that she had been suffering in silence, was destroying me.


    ¡ªI... I need to go ¡ªI mumbled, taking a step back.


    My heart was beating hard in my chest, and I felt short of breath. Without waiting for a response, I turned around and ran, leaving behind a stunned Sophie and a group of surprised classmates.

 A daughter, a sister and a friend (3)

    I ran aimlessly, my long silver hair waving behind me, reflecting sunlight like a bright mirror. My feet carried me away from school, away from accusing looks and hurtful words. I didn''t know where I was going, I just knew I needed to escape.


    Tears clouded my vision as I ran through the town streets, ignoring the concerned looks from passersby. Sophie''s words echoed in my mind over and over, like an endless echo.


    ?You''re so wrapped up in your own world of genius that you don''t see what''s happening around you.?


    I clenched my fists so hard that my knuckles had turned white.


    Was it my fault to be the way I was? Should I pretend to be less intelligent, less talented, just so others would feel better?


    It''s not fair, I thought, as my feet continued carrying me away. I didn''t ask to be like this. I didn''t ask to be different. Finally, my steps led me to a small park on the outskirts of the city. Physically and emotionally exhausted, I collapsed under a large tree, my shoulders shaking with silent sobs.


    ¡ªWhy? ¡ªI whispered to the air, my voice broken by crying¡ª. Why do I have to be like this? Why can''t I be normal?


    The wind whispered through the tree leaves, as if trying to comfort me. I closed my eyes, letting tears flow freely. For the first time in my life, I wished I wasn''t Anastasia Pendragon, the prodigy, the genius. I wished to be simply... normal.


    How could I fix this? How could I be myself without making others feel bad?


    ?Maybe you can''t, maybe this is the price of being different.?


    I shook my head, refusing to accept that idea. There had to be a way. There had to be a balance between being myself and considering others'' feelings.


    Finally, breathless and with trembling legs, I stopped. I looked around, realizing my steps had led me back home.


    The mansion stood before me, imposing and familiar at the same time. I opened the gate and took big steps, but in the front garden, before reaching the door, I stopped, broken.


    I hesitated for a moment. What would my mother say if she saw me coming home so early? What if she discovered I had run away from school? I shook my head, trying to clear those thoughts. I didn''t want to face anyone at that moment. I just wanted to be alone, maybe hide in my room and...


    With trembling steps, I approached the mansion''s back door. I knew that at this time of day, most servants would be busy in other areas of the house. Silently, I slipped inside.


    The mansion''s interior was quiet, only interrupted by the occasional sound of activity coming from the kitchens. I moved like a shadow through the hallways, instinctively heading towards the training area where I knew I would find Arceus.


    As expected, I found my younger brother in the training yard, diligently practicing with a spear.


    Suddenly, Arceus stopped. He lowered the spear and turned, his blue eyes meeting mine. For a moment, there was silence between us. ¡ªAna, ¡ªsaid Arceus, his voice surprisingly mature for his age¡ª. What are you doing here? Shouldn''t you be at school?


    I felt the tears I had been holding back threatening to spill. I tried to maintain my cheerful facade, forcing a smile that didn''t reach my eyes.


    ¡ªOh, you know, I decided to take a little break. School can be so boring sometimes.


    But Arceus wasn''t so easily fooled. He narrowed his eyes, looking at me intently. ¡ªAna, ¡ªhe said softly, approaching me¡ª. What really happened?


    And with those simple words, my facade crumbled. The tears I had been holding back finally spilled, and before I knew it, I was sobbing uncontrollably.Stolen novel; please report.


    Arceus, showing maturity beyond his years, dropped the spear and hugged me. I clung to him, letting all the frustration and pain I had been keeping inside out in the form of tears.


    ¡ªI... I''m selfish and I''m kind. I''m not that good! I''m a good person, I need to fit in, but... I want to be myself. I''m brave, but I get scared, I make mistakes and I''m bad. I''m strong and I''m weak... I don''t want to be different, ¡ªI sobbed¡ª. I don''t want them to look at me like I''m a freak. I don''t want them to hate me for who I am.


    Arceus held me in silence, letting me vent. When my sobs finally calmed down, he guided me to a nearby bench and we sat together.


    ¡ªAna, ¡ªArceus said softly¡ª, tell me what happened.


    I told him about the looks at school, the whispers behind my back. I told him about the fight with Sophie, how my best friend''s words had hurt me deeply. I confessed my fears, my doubts, my desire to simply fit in.


    ¡ªSometimes I wish I wasn''t a genius, ¡ªI said, my voice barely a whisper¡ª. Sometimes I wish I was normal, like everyone else.


    Arceus listened in silence, when I finished speaking, he took my hands in his. ¡ªAna, you''re trying to fit in, but fitting in isn''t the same as belonging. Fitting in is like adjusting into a reduced space of a puzzle by cutting parts of yourself to adapt to what surrounds you, you adapt to others'' experiences and sacrifice your essence. You''re trying to avoid loneliness without knowing that the most painful loneliness is the one felt when you''re surrounded by people who don''t understand or value who you really are. Being different isn''t something bad, it''s what makes you special, what makes you you.


    I looked up, surprised by the wisdom in my younger brother''s words. ¡ªBut everyone hates me for it. Sophie said...


    ¡ªSophie spoke from fear and insecurity, ¡ªArceus interrupted me¡ª. You can''t let others'' words define who you are.


    Arceus paused, as if looking for the right words. ¡ªLook, mediocre people are abundant; they''re the majority and they don''t like anyone standing out. If you do something they''ll criticize you, they''ll try to highlight the flaws in your work, but they''ll hardly recognize your successes. Anastasia, define your goals, fight for them, and if they speak ill of you, don''t flinch.


    ¡ªBut if they speak ill of me and I don''t answer, it''s like showing I agree with what they say ¡ªI argued.


    ¡ªOn the contrary. Unsolicited explanation is assumed guilt. Who doesn''t defend themselves is because they know they''re lies. Only those who get angry and lash out against viper tongues hang themselves. Everyone thinks ''if it hurt so much it must be true.'' Assimilate it. It''s not possible to separate triumph or being different from others without attacks. They come in the same package, but true triumph is the product of a lot of work with deaf ears to unhealthy criticism. Remember that every Ascendant is spoken ill of, remember that false stories are whispered about every artist, remember that every great person is said to be incompetent or lucky. Thousands of people who pursued the desire for an artistic career crumbled at the first ''comment,'' millions of potential winners decided to shrug their shoulders to live insignificantly when they faced the poison of resentful critics. But poison doesn''t kill if you don''t drink it. Let insults go in one ear and out the other. If you equal yourself with toads, you''ll stop focusing on your growth and you''ll be finished wallowing with them in the mud. Never be submissive, but go peacefully against the current, fighting for your desires and enduring the mockery of the frustrated. It''s part of the price you have to pay to be different or like you, to be special.


    I reflected on my brother''s words. I had never thought about it that way. ¡ªBut, how can I do that when everyone sees me as... as a freak?


    ¡ªLosers associate and there are so many of them, that they seem like everyone, but different people also exist and they tend to associate too... Nothing is free in life, Anastasia, and if they bother you laugh at them. You have the right not to be liked by everyone, understand it as a right. No one will ever love you if you''re not capable of running the risk of some hating you.


    I didn''t know what to say to him. He spoke with such eloquence, with such truth that, for a moment, I doubted that I was his older sister.


    ¡ªIf dogs bark ¡ªcontinued Arceus, licking his lips¡ª, it shows that you''re walking... Pursue your desires. Listen to criticism, but don''t let it hurt you. A statue has never been erected to a critic. Statues, real transcendence, belong only to the criticized. No one stands out for their good luck.


    ¡ªEnvious people bother, make noise and seem to stand out, but their bitterness sooner or later makes them rot. In the end, each person is exactly where they should be. We are all the sum of our actions. Showing them that you''re more than your intelligence. Showing them your heart, your kindness, your compassion. You don''t have to hide your genius, Ana. But you don''t have to give them the power to define everything you are either.


    I felt something changing inside me. Arceus''s words resonated in my mind, offering me a new perspective.


    ¡ªBesides, ¡ªadded Arceus with a mischievous smile¡ª, who says being normal is so great? Being extraordinary is much more fun.


    This drew a small laugh from me, the first in what seemed like an eternity. ¡ªYou know?, ¡ªI said, wiping away the last tears¡ª, for being my younger brother, sometimes you seem much older.


    Arceus shrugged. ¡ªWell, someone has to be the mature one in this family. ¡ªWe both laughed, and I felt as if a weight had lifted from my shoulders. Not all my problems were solved, but somehow, things seemed a little less overwhelming.


    ¡ªSo, ¡ªsaid Arceus, standing up¡ª, what are you going to do now?

 The power of believing

    I thought about it for a moment. Part of me still wanted to hide, avoid facing my classmates and Sophie. But another part, a part that grew stronger with each second, wanted to go back and face my fears.


    ¡ªI think, ¡ªI said slowly¡ª, that I''m going to go back to school.


    Arceus smiled and nodded. ¡ªRemember, Ana, never give up. Life is full of challenges, but it''s those challenges that make us stronger.


    I stood up, feeling renewed and determined. ¡ªYou''re right, Arceus. I can''t change how others see me, but I can change how I see myself.


    I leaned down and hugged my younger brother. ¡ªThank you, Arceus. I don''t know what I''d do without you.


    Arceus returned the hug. ¡ªThat''s what brothers are for, right?


    With one last smile at my brother, I turned around and began walking back to school.


    As I walked, I reflected on the conversation with Arceus. It was strange how my younger brother, despite his young age, seemed to have a wisdom that went beyond his years. Maybe it was simply Arceus being Arceus.


    The path back to school seemed different now. The same trees, the same houses, but somehow everything seemed brighter, full of possibilities. I realized that I had been so focused on how others saw me that I had forgotten to see myself.


    Yes, I was different. I was a genius, a prodigy. But that wasn''t all I was. I was also a sister, a daughter, a friend. I was someone who loved learning, who got excited with each new discovery. Someone who wanted to use their gifts to make the world a better place.


    I couldn''t change overnight how others saw me, but I could start showing them more of who I really was. Maybe I could organize study groups, help my classmates who were struggling. I could share my interest in learning in a way that inspired others instead of intimidating them.


    And Sophie... I felt pain thinking about her. Her words had hurt me deeply, but I realized that she was probably hurting too. Maybe we both needed to talk, really talk, and understand each other.


    Before I knew it, I was back in front of the school gates. For a moment, I hesitated. Fear and anxiety threatened to take over me again. With a deep breath, I straightened my shoulders and lifted my head. It was time to face my fears.


    With determined steps, I crossed the school doors. The hallway was empty when I entered. Classes had already started, and the silence was almost oppressive.This story has been stolen from Royal Road. If you read it on Amazon, please report it


    For a moment, I considered simply going to the principal''s office and explaining my absence. It would be easier, less scary than facing my classmates.


    But no, I told myself. I hadn''t come here to take the easy way out. I had come to face my fears, to be brave.


    With my heart beating strongly in my chest, I headed towards the classroom.


    I stopped in front of the door, listening to the muffled voice of the teacher from inside. I took another deep breath, closed my eyes for a moment, and then knocked softly.


    The sound of the teacher''s voice stopped, and a moment later the door opened. The teacher, a middle-aged woman with glasses and a generally kind expression, looked at me with surprise. ¡ªAnastasia? Where have you been?


    I felt all the class''s eyes on me. I could feel the curiosity, surprise, and yes, even a bit of resentment in some of those looks. But instead of shrinking, as I would have done before, I stood tall and looked directly at the teacher.


    ¡ªI''m sorry, Miss Johnson, ¡ªI said, my voice clear and cheerful¡ª. I had... I had a personal problem that I needed to resolve. May I come in?


    The teacher looked at me for a moment, as if trying to decipher something in my expression. Finally, she nodded and stepped aside.


    ¡ªOf course, Anastasia. Take your seat.


    I entered the classroom, aware of every pair of eyes following me. As I walked to my seat, my eyes met Sophie''s. My friend was looking at me with a mixture of surprise and... was that guilt in her eyes?


    I gave Sophie a small smile before sitting down. It wasn''t a smile of forgiveness, not yet, but it was a promise of reconciliation.


    The class continued, and I immersed myself in the lesson with bright and shining eyes. But this time, there was something different. Instead of just answering all the questions, I started doing something new. When the teacher asked a question and no one else raised their hand, I looked around, searching for someone who seemed to be struggling with the answer.


    ¡ªHey, Tim, ¡ªI whispered to a boy sitting near me who looked particularly confused¡ª. Want to try answering? I think you know it.


    Tim''s eyes widened a bit and he pursed his lips, but then, hesitantly, raised his hand. When the teacher called on him, he gave a tentative but correct answer. The proud smile on his face made me feel warm inside.


    As the class progressed, I continued with this new strategy. I encouraged others to answer, offered small hints and words of encouragement. And slowly, I noticed a change. The looks I received were no longer just of envy or resentment. There was curiosity there, and even a bit of gratitude. When the lunch bell rang, I took my time putting away my things.


    I knew I had a difficult conversation ahead. While the other students left the classroom, Sophie stayed behind, hesitating near her desk.


    Finally, when the classroom was almost empty, Sophie approached me.


    ¡ªAna, ¡ªshe said with a pleading voice¡ª, I... I''m so sorry. For what I said before. I shouldn''t have...


    The guilt, sadness, and remorse in her tearful eyes made my heart waver. But there was something else too. Fear, maybe. Fear of losing her best friend.


    Sophie bit her lower lip and closed her eyes while waiting for my response. Was she waiting for my verdict?


    Should I just forgive and forget everything? No, this is important. We need to talk about it. ¡ªSophie, ¡ªI said, with a soft voice¡ª, how about we have lunch together and... talk a bit?

 The power of believing (2)

    Sophie opened her eyes surprised for a moment, then relieved. She nodded with a sad smile. ¡ªYes, I''d like that.


    As we left the classroom together, I felt hope growing in my chest. It wasn''t going to be easy to change the way others saw me, the way I saw myself, it was going to be a challenge. But for the first time in a long time, I felt ready to face it.


    We sat at a cafeteria table, looking at each other in silence for a moment. There was so much to say, so many emotions to process, that neither of us knew where to start.


    Finally, I took the initiative. ¡ªSophie, I want you to know that I understand why you said what you said. I don''t agree with it, it hurt me deeply, but I understand it came from a place of frustration.


    Sophie lowered her gaze, her eyes fixed on her untouched food tray. ¡ªI''m so sorry, Ana ¡ªshe said, with trembling lips¡ª. I shouldn''t have said those things. It''s just that... sometimes it''s so hard being next to you. You''re so brilliant, so talented in everything you do. It makes me feel... insignificant.


    ¡ªSophie, look at me ¡ªI said, waiting until she looked up¡ª. You are not insignificant. You''ve never been and you''ll never be. You''re my best friend for a reason. You''re kind, loyal, creative in a way that I could never be. Your way of seeing the world, your compassion, your sense of humor... all those things make you special.


    Sophie blinked, surprised by my words. ¡ªBut... but you''re a genius. You can do anything.


    I shook my head, ¡ªNo, I can''t. There are many things you can do that I can''t. Remember that time I was so frustrated because I couldn''t draw? You taught me with so much patience. Or when I felt lonely and scared on my first day of school, it was you who approached me and offered me your friendship.


    A small smile appeared on Sophie''s face at those memories. ¡ªYou see, I''ve been thinking a lot about this. Yes, I''m good at studies and solving problems. But that''s just one part of who I am. And it''s definitely not all that matters in life.


    It''s time for both of us to see beyond the labels we had put on ourselves.


    Sophie nodded slowly, beginning to understand. ¡ªI guess you''re right. It''s just that... sometimes it''s hard not to compare yourself, you know?Did you know this text is from a different site? Read the official version to support the creator.


    ¡ªI know ¡ªI said with an understanding smile¡ª. But what if instead of comparing ourselves, we complement each other? You have strengths that I don''t have, and I have mine. Together, we can be an amazing team.


    Sophie''s eyes lit up at the idea. ¡ªLike a super duo?


    I laughed, feeling how the tension between us slowly dissipated. ¡ªExactly like a super duo. You can be the creative artist and I''ll be the brain. Together, we''ll be unstoppable!


    We both laughed, and I felt as if a weight lifted from my shoulders. Not everything was resolved, I knew it would take time to completely heal this wound. But it was a start. This felt good, right. As if we were finally being honest with each other.


    ¡ªAna ¡ªsaid Sophie after a moment¡ª, do you think you could... help me a bit with studies? Not to be like you, but to improve in my own way.


    I smiled widely. ¡ªOf course. And maybe you could teach me more about art. I''ve always wanted to learn to draw better.


    ¡ªDeal! ¡ªexclaimed Sophie, extending her hand.


    I took it, sealing our new agreement. The rest of the school day passed in the blink of an eye. When the final bell rang, I felt as if I had lived a whole lifetime in a single day.


    I had faced my fears, was repairing a friendship, and taken the first steps toward something new.


    As I walked home, I thought about Arceus and smiled. My younger brother had been right. Being different wasn''t something to be ashamed of, it was something to celebrate, something to share with the world. And as the afternoon sun bathed the streets in a warm golden glow, I felt that life was like driving a carriage.


    I must drive with skill and attention, without stepping on the accelerator fully in moments of darkness and storm, because I could suffer a fatal accident. In difficult moments, I need to brake a little to dodge obstacles.


    Emotions were reflected in my internal radar, making me slow down and analyze the path. That''s why emotions are good. Even the ones that seem bad. Fear allows me to detect danger and flee from it. It''s the most useful defense mechanism. When I feel fear, I brake, calculate the safest step and accelerate again, avoiding unnecessary risks.


    Guilt can also be good, I reflected. It leads me to recognize my mistakes and change direction to not make mistakes again. The sensation of ignorance induces me to study and grow. Pride leads me to love myself and defend my rights. Anger makes me rebel against things that are wrong and fight for good. Emotions are useful. I won''t try to repress them.


    I''ll cry if I''m sad, laugh if I''m happy, stay quiet if I''m nostalgic, vent if I''m angry. There''s nothing worse than an insensitive person, with a robot mind, oil blood, and a heart of stone. Thoughts must be polished, feelings, felt, I reminded myself. They are signals for braking and reaction, they can save my life.


    Similarly, I must maintain emotional control and avoid extremes: not stopping completely motivated by emotions. One who stops their carriage completely stops progressing, maturing, enjoying life, and begins to go crazy, as they remain trapped within a closed space, and emotions (which were useful), become prison chains.


    As I walked home, with a smile on my face and a skip in my step, I couldn''t wait to see what adventures awaited me on the path.

 Let the journey begin

    ARCEUS PENDRAGON


    The sun was barely peeking over the horizon when I felt a whirlwind burst into my room. I opened my eyes lazily, still wrapped in the mists of sleep, to find a familiar face smiling at me shamelessly.


    Anastasia had jumped onto my bed with the grace of a cat and the strength of a bull. Her long silver hair waved behind her like a brilliant trail, and her red eyes shone bright and gleaming.


    ¡ªWake up, sleepyhead! Today is the big day! H-hey! Don''t go back to sleep! ¡ªshe exclaimed, beginning to bounce while still straddling me.


    Oh, little Ana, if you only knew how indecent this could look... But of course, the innocence of youth is a blessing, isn''t it?


    ¡ªI get it! I''m awake, Ana! Please, get off my stomach so I can get up ¡ªI groaned, still half asleep. My voice sounded hoarse and thick, as if I had swallowed sand during the night.


    For a moment, my sleepy mind struggled to remember what day it was today. Then, like lightning, realization struck me. A few days ago, our mother had given us special news, a trip to the realm of the elves.


    The Kingdom of Alfheim, home of the elves and my mother''s birthplace, awaited us. The idea of exploring a new place filled me with excitement, but also with sadness at the thought of leaving my home behind.


    A smile drew on my face as I sat up, rubbing my eyes to chase away the last vestiges of sleep.


    ¡ªAna, is it time already? ¡ªI asked, yawning while stretching my arms.


    ¡ªOf course it is! Come on, come on! Mom and Dad must be waiting for us already!


    I got up, I couldn''t deny that the prospect of this trip filled me with anticipation. While I got dressed, Anastasia fluttered around the room.


    ¡ªCan you imagine what it''ll be like, Ars? ¡ªshe chattered non-stop¡ª. They say the trees there are so tall they touch the clouds! And there are magical creatures we''ve never seen before. Oh, and the libraries! So many new books to read!


    Where does this child get so much energy? It was as if she fed on pure sugar and caffeine. And here I was, feeling like a troll had used me as a pillow all night.


    ¡ªSounds amazing, Ana ¡ªI said, adjusting my robe¡ª. But remember, mom said we also have to be careful. It''s not just a pleasure trip.


    Anastasia made a pout that arched her eyebrows, she looked adorable. ¡ªI know, I know. But that doesn''t mean we can''t have fun, right?


    I nodded, feeling a mischievous smile form on my face. ¡ªOf course not. Race you to the dining room?


    Without waiting for an answer, I ran out of the room, hearing Anastasia''s hurried footsteps behind me and her shouts of "That''s cheating!"


    As we ran through the mansion''s hallways, the servants who were already awake smiled at us as we passed by, probably used to our morning mischief.


    When we arrived at the dining room, breathless and laughing, we found our parents already seated at the table. My mother, her silver hair gathered in an elaborate braid, raised an eyebrow as she saw us enter so boisterously. ¡ªGood morning, my little devils ¡ªshe said with a loving smile¡ª. I see you''re full of energy this morning.


    My father smiled softly as he looked at us. ¡ªLet them be, dear. It''s a big day for all of us.


    Anastasia and I took our places at the table, where a breakfast feast awaited us. There were fruit pastries, scrambled eggs with aromatic herbs, freshly baked bread, and a variety of fresh juices.


    ¡ªRemember ¡ªsaid my mother at one point, her tone becoming more serious¡ª, this trip isn''t just for pleasure. We have important responsibilities in the realm of the elves.This tale has been unlawfully lifted without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon.


    ¡ªWe know, mom ¡ªreplied Anastasia, with puppy eyes, looking a bit sad.


    My father cleared his throat, ¡ªBut that doesn''t mean you can''t have fun too. After all, it''s an adventure!


    Anastasia and I cheered at this, and high-fived. The people had won.


    After finishing eating, we prepared to depart. The mansion''s hallways were full of activity, with servants running back and forth, making sure everything was ready for the trip. Anastasia and I said goodbye to our favorite toys.


    As I walked through my room one last time, my gaze stopped on a small stuffed animal resting on my pillow. It was a gift from my mother, something she had given me shortly after I was born into this world. I took it in my hands, feeling its familiar softness.


    With a sigh, I carefully packed it in my travel bag. Maybe it was childish to bring a stuffed animal on such an important trip, but I didn''t care. It was a reminder of who I was now, of the family that loved me.


    I had assumed we would be going to a nearby town or city, a day''s journey at most, because in this world there were teleportation gates, I was wrong.


    We were preparing for a four-week journey. A carriage ride pulled by magical beasts through the Forest of Dreams, to something called the Starlight Sanctuary where there was a portal that would take us to a city called Danafor, Royal Capital of Alfheim, Kingdom of the elves.


    This journey was going to be long. In moments like these, I wished modern transportation existed. To reach the city, we would have to enter through one of the designated teleportation gates in the Sanctuary; otherwise, it would easily take months to cross the forest to reach the gate that was beneath the royal city, which floated in the center of elven territory.


    Finally, our family gathered in the mansion''s main courtyard. A magnificent carriage awaited us, a work of art in itself, with intricate designs carved into the wood and magical runes that glowed faintly. Promise of a safe and comfortable journey.


    The carriage was pulled by two giant lizards with spikes on their backs and powerful claws, they were C-rank monsters that were much more efficient to use, although more expensive, than horses when traveling through mountainous terrain.


    The servants lined up to bid us farewell, I saw my mother approach Margot, the housekeeper, an older woman who had been with us since before Anastasia''s birth. ¡ªTake good care of the mansion in our absence, Margot ¡ªsaid my mother, clasping the woman''s hands affectionately.


    ¡ªOf course, my lady ¡ªreplied Margot, with teary eyes¡ª. May the gods protect you on your journey.


    Finally, it was time to depart. We climbed into the carriage, and as we moved away from the mansion, Anastasia and I frantically waved goodbye. I watched as our home, the place I had come to love so much in this new life, grew smaller and smaller in the distance.


    The journey was peaceful, with the gentle rattling of the carriage lulling us. I found myself looking out the window, watching as the familiar landscape gave way to unknown lands. Anastasia, seated beside me, kept pointing out every new thing she saw, with bright and shining eyes.


    Soon, we crossed vast fields of flowers that changed color with the sunlight, their petals dancing in the breeze as if they were alive.


    Suddenly, something caught my attention. It was big, colorful, and definitely not something I expected to see. ¡ªLook, Ana! ¡ªI shouted, pointing out the window with raised eyebrows¡ª. Is that a giant butterfly?


    Anastasia hurried to look, her eyes blinking rapidly. ¡ªIt''s a Papilio Maximus! I''ve read about them, but I never thought I''d see one!


    Our mother smiled with her eyes. ¡ªThose butterflies are very rare. They say they bring good luck to those who see them.


    ¡ªDoes that mean our journey will be fortunate? ¡ªI asked, pursing my lips.


    ¡ªWith you two aboard, how could it not be? ¡ªShe winked her left eye at me with a cheeky smile.


    The journey continued, and with each kilometer traveled, the landscape became more and more fascinating. We crossed a forest where the trees had bright-colored bark: blue, purple, and even some that seemed to change color as we passed.


    ¡ªThose are chameleon trees ¡ªmother explained when Anastasia asked about them¡ª. They change color to adapt to their surroundings and confuse predators.


    ¡ªAmazing! ¡ªexclaimed Anastasia moving her arms to her chest and putting on sad puppy eyes¡ª. Do you think we could take one home?


    Damn, that was a critical hit! I felt my heart race for an instant.


    Adelaide chuckled, the sound musical and comforting. ¡ªI''m afraid not, darling. These trees need very specific conditions to grow. But maybe we can take some seeds to study.


    While my sister and mother discussed the trees, my attention was caught by something else. Among the trees, I could see small blinking lights, like tiny stars dancing among the leaves.


    ¡ªMom ¡ªI called, without taking my eyes off the lights¡ª, what are those lights between the trees?


    Adelaide narrowed her eyes to see better, and a light of recognition appeared on her face. ¡ªAh, those are firefly fairies. They''re magical creatures that illuminate the forest at night. They say that if you manage to catch one, it will grant you a wish.


    I felt my eyes open wide at this information. The idea of a granted wish... well, it was tempting, to say the least.


    ¡ªCan we try to catch one? ¡ªI asked. For a moment, I forgot about being the mature and thoughtful child I often tried to be.


    ¡ªMaybe on the return journey ¡ªmy mother promised¡ª. Now we must continue forward if we want to reach the campsite before nightfall.

 Let the journey begin (2)

    ATLAS PENDRAGON


    I contemplated the majestic landscape that stretched before my eyes while driving the carriage. Mountains, rivers, lakes, and forests covered the continent with their vibrant colors, but it was purple that dominated the view, majestic and imposing. The mountain ranges rose for thousands of kilometers, with peaks that brushed the skies at more than 10,000 meters in height.


    Spring had always brought with it a peculiar euphoria to all races, transcending continents and planes of existence. In Arcadia, this sensation was even more intense. The teleportation portal to the Alfheim kingdom was located at the summit of Mount Tenryuu.


    As I guided the carriage towards the Forest of Dreams, I couldn''t help but marvel at the beauty of these fertile and mysterious lands.


    ?Spring... what a curious season?, I thought while adjusting the reins. For humans, it meant a new beginning after the long winter, the end of the biting cold and the promise of abundant food. Even the most diverse creatures¡ªdwarves, orcs, elves, ogres, and carnivorous beasts¡ªfound special meaning in this season.


    Although, of course, the world has never been simple. The subterranean creatures, indifferent to the changing seasons, or the snow demons with their absolute contempt for spring. But for most of us humans, spring had an undeniable charm.


    During our journey, we encountered several monsters. The road was never safe, I thought while keeping the reins firm.


    To be precise, we came across an imposing evil centipede of rank B+, a black spider of rank B that lurked in the shadows, a giant bat of rank C+ that descended from the skies, and an Armosaurus of rank B-, a large lizard covered with formidable natural armor. Unfortunately, we didn''t see any more of those black snakes.


    While guiding the carriage, my mind wandered to the terrible wolves that dominated the eastern plains. These predators were the terror of merchants who traveled between the Lancelot Empire and the kingdoms near the Forest of Dreams.


    They weren''t simple beasts. Each of these wolves equaled a rank C monster, dangerous enough to tear off the leg of a careless adventurer.


    But the real danger arose when they hunted in packs. Under the leadership of a talented alpha, these terrible wolves revealed their true potential. The pack became a single organism, acting with perfect synchronization that easily elevated them to the category of class B monsters.


    The eastern plains bordered an extensive grain-producing region, a vital resource for the Lancelot Empire that they kept fiercely protected.


    As clever as these wolves might be, penetrating the Empire''s defenses would be practically suicide. Even if they succeeded, they would unleash all the Empire''s fury, putting their species'' survival at risk.


    While these thoughts occupied my mind, I remembered another recent encounter with a group of monsters. They were small-statured creatures, carrying rudimentary and crude equipment. Their dirty faces and obtuse looks contrasted with their use of swords, shields, stone axes, and bows, which set them apart from being simple beasts.


    Goblins, they were infamous among adventurer groups. Their rusty weapons and worn armor revealed their precarious situation. Some barely wore stained rags. Compared to the armored lizards and spiders with their deadly serrated limbs that we had faced before, their equipment seemed incapable of posing a real threat.


    When they saw us, the goblins scattered in terror. Although it was strange that they didn''t try to attack us. Had they perceived the difference in power? It was unusual for these creatures, normally reckless, to show such caution.


    On the way, we stopped to camp by the river. I watched with amusement as little Arceus pouted while Adelaide bathed him, with a radiant smile.


    Behind them, Anastasia launched herself from a giant rock, her arms and legs spread in the air, her face beaming with joy.


    However, we had been traveling for a week without encountering bandits, something I found strangely disappointing. While driving the luxurious carriage, I let out a loud yawn.


    ¡ªIt''s so quiet... Why aren''t there any bandits? Have they gotten smarter? ¡ªI commented aloud, feeling the weight of my light but extravagant armor, and the brush of my tied white hair against my neck.Unauthorized use: this story is on Amazon without permission from the author. Report any sightings.


    Adelaide, in her refined tunic, gave me a cheeky smile.


    ¡ªThose who aren''t intelligent have already been annihilated, haven''t they?


    ¡ªAren''t there any brave bandits? ¡ªI asked, genuinely puzzled.


    ¡ªThe brave ones die faster ¡ªshe responded playfully.


    Suddenly, the sound of horse hooves resonated behind us. I saw Adelaide tense up, preparing for any eventuality. Through the mist appeared a rough-looking rider, with disheveled hair barely contained by a red cloth. His bare, muscular chest protruded under the armor, and he rode a black horse of supernatural proportions, clearly descended from a demonic beast.


    ¡ªBandit? ¡ªI asked, while the metallic sound of my voice resonated in the air.


    ¡ªNo! ¡ªAdelaide denied firmly.


    The rider passed by us like a gust of wind, making Adelaide''s hair flutter. He quickly moved away, apparently in a hurry to reach some unknown destination.


    We continued our journey without setbacks until we reached a lake that softly glowed among the mountains. I decided to stop the carriage, recognizing the ideal place to camp.


    ¡ªWah. How pretty... ¡ªexclaimed Anastasia as she got down from the carriage, marveled at the lake that emitted a subtle light and a warm aura.


    I watched as Arceus became fascinated with the lake while I began to prepare the camp.


    ¡ªYou can look around ¡ªI told him, while my years of experience as an adventurer guided my hands to quickly set up the tent and collect firewood.


    When I finished lighting the fire, I heard small applause coming from Arceus, who had been watching me attentively. I extended my hand to affectionately pat his small head.


    When I turned around, I saw Anastasia playing in the water with her shirt and short pants, while Adelaide watched her with her feet submerged in the lake.


    ¡ªMom, you should come in too! It''s warm inside! ¡ªshouted Anastasia, waving her hand enthusiastically.


    ¡ªI''ll be there soon ¡ªAdelaide responded, returning the wave.


    I approached Adelaide, who had laid down on the grass contemplating the landscape, and laid beside her. We had barely settled when Arceus arrived and installed himself between us. The warm wind enveloped us while I watched Adelaide fall asleep with Arceus in her arms.


    Later, when it was time to eat, I noticed the hesitation on Arceus''s face.


    ¡ªWhy don''t you go play with them? ¡ªI asked, holding a fishing rod¡ª. The lake water is warm and has a pleasant aura.


    ?Besides, it heals wounds and relieves fatigue?. I was sure Arceus would like it, but the child kept looking alternately at the lake and at me with indecision.


    ¡ªDo you want to go fishing together? ¡ªI finally suggested.


    His face lit up immediately. ?Ah, that was it?, I said to myself. ?Fishing.?


    I started fishing after placing the bait, with Arceus sitting beside me, watching me with interest. To my surprise, he abruptly jumped into the water shortly after. ?And I thought he didn''t want to go in?, I reflected while watching him splash enthusiastically.


    I continued fishing, catching from small fish to some as thick as my arm. They all looked quite appetizing. When I stood up to store the fish in a basket, Arceus quickly approached.


    ¡ªWhere are you going? ¡ªhe asked with curiosity.


    ¡ªWe''re going to look for something to eat ¡ªI responded.


    ¡ªSomething to eat? I want to go too! ¡ªexclaimed Anastasia, approaching with a big smile.


    While we walked, Anastasia asked:


    ¡ªBy the way, what are we going to eat?


    ¡ªMushrooms ¡ªI responded simply.


    I saw nervousness appear on her face. ¡ªDid you say mushrooms?


    ¡ªWhy? ¡ªintervened Arceus.


    ¡ªI don''t like mushrooms. What if we accidentally eat a poisonous one...? ¡ªquestioned Anastasia.


    ¡ªDon''t worry ¡ªI reassured her.


    I descended the mountain with large strides, searching under the big trees. With an attentive look, the mushrooms began to reveal themselves among the fallen foliage. I pointed to a white mushroom that peeked out among the leaves.


    ¡ªWhat''s wrong with that? ¡ªasked Arceus with curiosity.


    ¡ªHmm. It''s pretty. Right, Arceus? ¡ªcommented Anastasia.


    I saw Arceus nod while Anastasia continued:


    ¡ªAnd it smells really good. Can we eat it?


    ¡ªNo ¡ªI shook my head.


    ¡ªWhy? It''s pretty and smells good ¡ªprotested Anastasia with a pout.


    I explained to them that it was a ''Decade Mushroom'', a peculiar species that developed poison as it grew, being edible only during its first ten days of life.


    ¡ªHow do you know that? ¡ªasked Anastasia with wide eyes.


    This knowledge came from my years as an adventurer.


    We continued our mushroom search until I finally let out a satisfied sigh.


    ¡ªWhy? Why? Did something happen? ¡ªasked Anastasia curiously.


    ¡ªWe got lucky today ¡ªI affirmed, pleased with our collection.


    Back at the camp, I prepared to cook for the first time in a long while. I was used to my beautiful wife''s cooking.


    I prepared a broth with lake water, adding garlic, onions, and other ingredients. I incorporated herbs, the filleted fish, and sliced mushrooms. When I saw that the fire was weak, I used my fingertips to strengthen it.


    The fish stew with spicy mushrooms was almost ready when I took out a large thermos with rice from my storage ring. The delicious aroma of mushrooms instantly spread through the air.


    ¡ªWah...! ¡ªexclaimed Anastasia, clenching her fists in anticipation.


    Adelaide served the stew in bowls and distributed them. Everyone tried a spoonful and let out expressions of admiration.


    I watched with amusement as Anastasia stared intently at the mushrooms, chewing carefully at first, until her expression brightened and she put a whole mushroom in her mouth.


    I tasted the soup myself: it was spicy and flavorful, with the tender white fat of the fish perfectly complementing the intense aroma of the mushrooms. While savoring my portion, I saw Arceus, sitting in Adelaide''s lap, bringing the spoon to his mouth.


    ¡ªHow is it? Is it good? ¡ªI asked.


    ¡ª...Delicious ¡ªhe responded with his bright eyes fixed on me.


    The moment was perfect: the warmth of the food, the company of my family, and the peace of the sunset at the lake.


    While watching Adelaide help Arceus with his bowl and Anastasia ask for a second portion, I felt a deep satisfaction that went beyond the simple pleasure of a good meal.

 Lights in the dark

    ADELAIDE STARLIGHT


    Night was beginning to fall as I watched the sun hide beneath the horizon, painting the sky with orange and purple hues. I was lying on a lounger by the lake, with my little Arceus sleeping peacefully in my lap. Beside me, Atlas was resting on another lounger with Anastasia asleep on top of him.


    What peace can be felt in this moment, I thought while listening to my little son''s soft breathing tickling my ears. The lake in front of us wasn''t particularly large, but it offered a perfect view from our position on the loungers.


    As darkness began to envelop the landscape, I was about to wake the children to take them to their tents when an idea crossed my mind. Gently, I tried to wake Arceus and Anastasia.


    ¡ªNn? A beautiful landscape? ¡ªAnastasia mumbled in a sleepy voice.


    ¡ªDon''t... want to move ¡ªmy little Arceus protested, weakly waving his little arms while sinking back into sleep.


    I couldn''t help but sigh with an ironic smile while taking him in my arms.


    ¡ªAh! Anyway, let''s go together! ¡ªexclaimed Anastasia while rubbing her beautiful eyes.


    We headed to a place not far from where we had been. During my previous inspection of the area, I hadn''t detected any traces or auras of monsters, which had made me feel secure in choosing this site. However, something inside me was saying we should wait.


    ¡ªWe should wait for a while ¡ªI suggested, following that inexplicable feeling I had.


    I felt Atlas''s arm around my waist while his other hand held Anastasia. I was still carrying my sleeping little Arceus, and my eyes were lost in the vast landscape stretching before us.


    Gently, I woke Arceus. His beautiful blue eyes, still clouded with sleep, began to open slowly. I could notice how the initial confusion at finding himself in an unfamiliar place dissipated as soon as his eyes found mine.


    ¡ªNow! Everyone please look at the sky! It will begin any moment! ¡ªI announced with contained excitement.


    Just as I finished speaking those words, a shooting star crossed the sky like a silver thread.


    ¡ªWow...! ¡ªexclaimed Anastasia with genuine admiration.


    My heart swelled with happiness seeing how both Arceus and Atlas watched the spectacle with bright eyes.Unauthorized reproduction: this story has been taken without approval. Report sightings.


    What started as a single shooting star soon multiplied: two, three, five, ten, twenty... The number gradually increased until hundreds, thousands of stars filled the firmament, creating a celestial spectacle that seemed designed just for us. The shooting stars appeared to have a gravitational center, drawing a perfect circle around a specific point and tracing luminous paths on the black canvas of the night sky.


    I felt how Arceus''s little hands clung tightly to my neck, and I couldn''t help but turn my gaze from the sky to contemplate his face. His pupils reflected the light dance of the shooting stars, and I could see how his jaw slowly dropped, obviously overwhelmed by the immensity of the cosmic spectacle he was witnessing.


    I could feel how my little one tried to absorb every detail of the celestial landscape, storing it in his childish mind like a precious treasure.


    ***


    ANASTASIA PENDRAGON


    I watched my little brother as he restlessly shifted in his sleeping bag. His eyes remained wide open while he firmly held his large teddy bears, and I could notice how his gaze seemed lost, surely reliving again and again the shooting star spectacle we had witnessed.


    ¡ªCan''t you sleep? ¡ªI asked him softly.


    We were alone in one of the two camping tents, and I couldn''t resist the urge to stroke his soft white hair, running my fingers from his forehead back with tenderness. My brother responded with a small nod, his bare forehead slightly gleaming under the dim light of our camping lamp.


    ¡ªIt was really beautiful, wasn''t it? ¡ªI commented, remembering myself the wonderful celestial spectacle.


    "He''s so adorable when he''s like this," I thought while watching him nod again with enthusiasm.


    ¡ªBut now you need to sleep. Shall we go to sleep together? ¡ªI suggested, trying to help him relax.


    ¡ªI suppose you''re right ¡ªmy little brother admitted, letting out a yawn that made me smile¡ª. Ana, can you sing me that elvish song that mom taught us?


    My heart melted at his request.


    ¡ªOf course ¡ªI replied, and prepared myself to sing.


    I closed my eyes for a moment, remembering the melody that our mother had taught us. When I began to sing, I tried to make my voice as soft and melodious as I could, wanting it to sound like the gentle murmur of a spring brook, just as I knew Arceus liked:


    "You have always rested in peace, in the sweet cradle that my love created.


    But you will wake up, chosen you will be by the messenger of dreams,


    On your skin I see shimmering, the moonlight in the nightfall,


    If only you could stop time and this world end.


    There is a reason why we came to meet,


    I am the bible and I will show you the path to freedom,


    Like a soulless and cruel angel, helplessly you will suffer a tragedy,


    A new form of life will begin, when you finally wake from this dream,


    More than anyone in the world you will shine, fly child, become legend."


    I let my voice fade softly, watching how Arceus''s eyelids began to grow heavy. It''s working, I thought with satisfaction while a smile formed on his lips and he finally closed his eyes.


    I kept staring at him, fascinated by his movements as he sank into the world of dreams.


    I watched how he softly moved his fingers and toes, as if he were playing in his dreams. Soon he released the teddy bear and began waving his arms in the air.


    Suddenly, a smile appeared on his face, which made me stop caressing his hair and tilt my head with curiosity. "What could he be dreaming about?" I wondered, feeling some tenderness seeing him so happy and relaxed. I couldn''t resist giving him a short kiss on his white and clear forehead.

 Paradigm shifts

    SOPHIE.


    The faint ray of the rising sun managed to slip through a gap in the dark burgundy curtains right over my eyelids, waking me up quite pleasantly. I rubbed my crusty eyes, taking a moment to silently observe my surroundings.


    It was Saturday, a day when I didn''t have to go to school, but that didn''t mean I could rest. Like every weekend since my father''s death, it was my turn to go to the well to fetch water.


    Not everyone in the city could afford to have water at home. This was my job now, one of many responsibilities I had to take on. While walking to the well, I couldn''t help but let my thoughts wander to the injustice of it all.


    ?The circumstances surrounding human birth are truly absurd and unfair?, I thought bitterly.


    Some are born holding a golden spoon, others are born having to forge it ourselves. Just by luck, some are created from the sperm of a loaded bastard.


    Just because they were lucky, they were conceived from the egg of a disgustingly rich woman. Effort? It could only be called effort if moving your tail faster than other sperm was considered an act of merit.


    Others might be endowed with extraordinary talent; one that could forge a clay spoon into a golden one if the opportunity arose. The inequality in human birth was the same in this world.


    One might be prone to following the path of martial arts, while another might be born with a gift for magic. The point is that the disparities between human beings were evident from birth.


    I rolled up my sleeves upon reaching the well, exposing my untanned, pale, and prominent skin. The years of doing chores while taking care of my mother had made my arms look a bit thick and strong.


    I would need three trips to fill the house''s water tank. Unfortunately, the well was quite far away, since areas where underground water could be found were quite rare.


    The full buckets were very heavy, but I lifted them as I always did. ?If the buckets were bigger, I could make fewer trips?, I thought. ?Wouldn''t that be easier? Though if they were bigger, I probably couldn''t lift them...?


    After my father''s death, the family burden suddenly became heavier. As the eldest daughter, it was natural to assume the responsibility of carrying the family''s weight.


    But this was something nobody knew at the academy; I was ashamed to talk about my humble origins in a place where nobles or prodigies like Anastasia went.


    My mother had done everything possible to give me what I needed to attend the academy. I myself had tried my hardest, always giving my best to earn a scholarship that covered 80% of all school expenses while my poor mother struggled to pay the remaining 20%.


    ?What''s the point of striving day after day, if it meant nothing to my best friend? What''s the point if I could lose what little I have in the blink of an eye??


    Although I considered her my best friend, I had never talked about my origins or difficulties with her. I didn''t want to make such excuses or justify my behavior that way.


    I knew that the pain I caused her that day could never be forgotten. Because once a glass breaks, no matter how much one tries to piece it together and "fix" it, that glass will always be fractured. Friendship was like that, it could be "fixed," but it would never be the same.


    While I was preparing to return home, I heard a sound in the distance and turned to look at it. There was tension in the air and the seeds of fear began to sprout in my heart. My ears seemed to catch something like wood breaking, and after that...The narrative has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the infringement.


    ¡ªA scream? ¡ªI murmured to myself.


    It sounded like a strangled bird, but there was no way it could be a bird''s song. A shiver ran down my spine; there had to be some kind of mistake. It couldn''t be a human voice. I tried to erase my uneasiness with these thoughts, but then they vanished when the sound resonated in the air once again.


    My heart skipped a beat in my chest. There was no mistake: it was a human scream. I threw aside the water buckets ¡ªI couldn''t run with that heavy load¡ª and ran toward the place of the scream, because the uneasiness I felt wouldn''t leave me in peace. I ran like I had never run before in my life, so fast that my legs were about to tangle.


    The neighing of horses, people''s screams, and the chilling shrieks became clearer as I approached.


    My heart was racing, but I couldn''t stop. Something terrible was happening, and although fear gripped my chest, my legs kept moving forward, toward those sounds that became increasingly clear in the distance.


    I ran, ran, and ran as if there was no tomorrow. My lungs burned and my legs trembled, but I couldn''t stop. Upon arriving, the sight before me was so heartbreaking that I felt my heart stop.


    ¡ªBlood? ¡ªmy voice trembled, while an expression of horror drew across my face.


    Everywhere there were bodies next to destroyed buildings, and smoke rose to the sky like a macabre sign of destruction. A part of the city had turned into a pandemonium, a vision of hell I never thought I would witness.


    My stomach churned and contracted when I felt a strange sensation in my palate: it was bile threatening to come out along with gastric juices. The scene before me was too much to bear: some people were melting like candle wax, others had their heads split open with tentacles sprouting out, while others vomited their entrails through their mouths among hundreds of debris. Those who could still move fled desperately.


    I couldn''t contain myself anymore. I bent down to vomit while bringing my hands to my mouth. A yellowish liquid fell to the ground along with small pieces of decomposing food, and a bitter smell filled my nostrils when I felt energy leaving my body.


    ?I can''t stay here?,I thought. ?I have to get home.?


    With iron will, I wiped my mouth with my sleeves and started running again. The journey to my house wasn''t long and I arrived quickly, although I was tired and exhausted.


    But what appeared before me was an even more cruel and bloody scene: my house had been destroyed. Nothing remained but a pile of rubble and wooden sticks of different sizes; the ground had turned into a sea of blood.


    The pool of blood under the bodies of my murdered mother and siblings mixed with unknown blood that gave off a suffocating smell. Their bodies lay dismembered and blood stained many places in the house. My entire family had been murdered.


    ¡ªAhhhh!!! ¡ªa heartbreaking scream came from my dry throat.


    I screamed from pain, anger, frustration, and regret.


    ?Don''t cry.?


    ?Don''t despair.?


    ?This is not the time to be sad.?


    But I was devastated. My family had been murdered. It was too painful. I wanted to scream until I lost my voice. ?If only I had arrived earlier...?


    Trembling and crying uncontrollably, I frantically searched through my family members'' bodies to see if any of them were alive. And... I fell to my knees when I realized there was nothing, I had lost everything.


    Unconsciously, I held my breath. Suddenly, there was a suffocating silence. Instinctively, realizing things had gone very wrong, I lifted my body. Then, I shuddered when I heard a noise.


    I slowly turned my body and what I saw made me fall into despair.


    A monster was behind me. With a large, elongated, and robust body, it measured more than three meters tall with a length of more than 7 meters. Its skin was hard and scaly, with scales that overlapped to give it better protection. Its head was wide and flat, with a frightening, toothed jaw, with sharp knife-like teeth. Its eyes were large and round, with horizontal pupils that I had no doubt could see in all directions. Its legs were large and robust with sharp claws.


    I realized that the monster in front of me was a contaminant. Those were powerful and supernatural creatures. Their very name instilled terrifying fear in simple commoners like me.


    So I knew with certainty that...


    ?I was going to die...?


    With that thought, the moment I lowered my gaze, my expression became empty and distant...


    ¡ª...That''s right ¡ªI murmured.


    My dry lips were firmly pressed together. From the beginning, I only had two options: run or fight. It didn''t matter which I chose, I simply didn''t want to die without fighting.


    When my thoughts reached there, my courage level shot up several levels.


    Cough! I coughed dryly.


    ... I made a movement. No, I tried to make one.


    At that moment, a man in thick silver armor appeared out of nowhere, he looked like one of the city''s adventurers.


    With a movement I couldn''t see, he cut the monster''s neck and split its neck and skull.

 Paradigm shifts (2)

    ASCENDING DERIS.


    I never imagined I would have to see that girl again after saving her. Honestly, I hadn''t even bothered to ask her name, convinced that our paths would never cross again.


    ¡ªIs this Ser Deris''s house? ¡ªShe asked while following me like a lost chick. Her voice was loaded with gratitude that made me deeply uncomfortable.


    My house stood imposing before us: a two-story wooden construction, considerably larger than what had been her home, with its one hundred and twenty square meters surrounded by neglected fields. Weeds and tall grass had taken over the terrain, along with everything the wind had decided to plant over time.


    I had no intention of getting more involved with her. However, something changed when she lunged at me, knocking me to the ground with an embrace that could only be described as heartbreaking. The way she trembled, her incessant tears, her desperate pleas for me not to abandon her... All of that touched a sensitive fiber inside me that I thought had died long ago.


    I perfectly understood her situation. The loss of her family had left her completely alone, and I could feel the fear emanating from every pore of her being.


    It was logical: after being rescued, the pain of losing her parents must have been hitting her like a relentless wave. And upon realizing that her beloved house had been destroyed, hatred had begun to grow inside her like a poisonous seed.


    But what worried me most was the absolute terror I perceived in her. After her encounter with the contaminants, those life forms of unknown origin, fear had become an overwhelming presence in her heart.


    I was forced to take her to my house, even if temporarily. ¡ªCome on, get in ¡ªI told her, trying to ignore her hesitant look as I opened the living room door.


    Upon entering, I couldn''t help but notice the obvious: the absence of a feminine presence was painfully evident in the disorder that reigned in every corner. I indicated for her to sit on the sofa, but as soon as she did, she jumped up.


    ¡ªPlease, teach me how to kill contaminants ¡ªher voice was charged with a fire that surprised me.


    I could feel the fury and hatred burning inside her. ?Pure hatred has an unusual beauty,? I thought bitterly.


    What a waste! This little one could have had a happy life, surrounded by her family''s love, but now she was condemned to carry so much rage.


    I didn''t want to hear her pleas. I couldn''t, I shouldn''t rob her of her future due to a reckless decision.


    ¡ªWhy? ¡ªI asked, arching an eyebrow¡ª. I mean, why should I help you? What do I gain from that?


    I saw how she lowered her head and clenched her fists. It was evident she hadn''t expected such a direct rejection. ¡ªWhat do you want? ¡ªshe asked, raising her gaze with a frown.


    ¡ªThe truth is, I don''t think a dwarf who barely reaches my belt can kill anything, not even a rat. And since teaching is a waste of time, I demand compensation ¡ªI scratched my chin, looking for something that could dissuade her from her crazy ideas.


    I had never wanted to have children of my own, much less deal with others''.


    ¡ªSo, if you want to learn from me, you have to give something in return.


    Her next question froze my blood: ¡ªDo you want... my body? ¡ªHer voice trembled and tears threatened to overflow from her eyes.This narrative has been purloined without the author''s approval. Report any appearances on Amazon.


    Anger invaded me instantly. ¡ªDon''t be stupid, girl. You lack enough meat to catch my attention ¡ªI snorted, crossing my arms in disgust.


    Suddenly, her face lit up. ¡ªI can wash clothes, cook and clean! My mom praised me a lot, especially for cooking!


    ¡ª...Really? ¡ªthat proposal took me by surprise. Was she trying to appeal to my practical side?


    I tried to make her see reason: ¡ªAlthough it''s difficult now, sooner or later you''ll forget all this. Be a normal girl and live a happy life. Find the man you like, have your own family, and live until your face is full of wrinkles...


    She didn''t let me finish. ¡ªHow could I forget it?! ¡ªher shout surprised me¡ª. I saw my family murdered before my eyes, you know?! Is living a normal life happiness? Is lying to myself and pretending to forget all this happiness?! I don''t want that kind of happiness! What''s the difference from being dead? ¡ªTears ran down her cheeks as she looked at me with rage and pain.


    Her words hit me hard. I tried to counterattack: ¡ªKilling contaminants is a path of blood, it''s not so simple. Do you think your deceased family would want you to choose this kind of future?


    ¡ªAt this point, nobody knows what my family wanted for me... ¡ªher voice broke at the end, and for the first time in a long time, I was left speechless.


    Then she threw at me the question I feared: ¡ªSo, Ser Deris, can you do it? After the important people in your life are killed, are you capable of continuing to live as if nothing had happened?


    It wasn''t that I couldn''t do it, but it wasn''t something I wanted to discuss with a child. I changed tactics: ¡ªYou need a certain type of build and talent to be an Ascendant, no matter how hard you try to master your skills with any weapon, the amount of talent you''re born with will never change. Strength itself is proportional to the amount of muscles you have.


    ¡ª...I understand that ¡ªshe responded while gently rubbing her eyes with her hands.


    ¡ªEven if you become an Ascendant, you might not even be able to decapitate a single contaminant.


    She remained silent.


    ¡ªAnd do you know what happens to Ascendants who can''t kill a contaminant?


    I saw her lower her head in pain, but after a moment, she surprised me with her next words:


    ¡ªMy mother always said: If there''s someone who can''t bear their burdens, then carry half of them for them; if someone is worried, think with them; if someone is wrapped in pain, then empathize with them.


    As I watched her, I couldn''t help but think about her mother. She must have been an exceptional person: kind, honest, hardworking, and deeply loving with her children. And now she was dead, along with the rest of her family, victims of a power against which they couldn''t defend themselves.


    ¡ªI want to save everyone, whether they''re humans or semi-humans ¡ªshe declared with a sincerity that left me breathless, full of the sadness of feeling helpless.


    I raised my head and closed my eyes, sighing slowly. The household chores didn''t sound bad, I thought. Lately, I hadn''t been able to enjoy a good meal because I was always away from home. If she could cook...


    ¡ªI treat my disciple quite severely, you know? ¡ªI warned her¡ª. Besides, you have to do the household chores and train at the same time. Think that you won''t even have time to complain. But I promise you that I will definitely make you stronger... What you decide to use your strength for after that is not my problem. Can you do it?


    I didn''t promise to teach her how to kill contaminants, but I committed to making her stronger so she could survive on her own.


    ¡ªOf course! I''ll do my best in everything! ¡ªThe girl forced herself to smile, putting enthusiasm in her voice.


    ¡ªWe''ll establish a trial period ¡ªI proposed¡ª. I''ll judge your work for a week. Of course, I''ll treat you as a disciple during the trial period, so you can feel relieved. I''ll also add training to make you put on a self-sufficient face.


    Her eyes lit up. ¡ªR-really?!


    ¡ªHowever, I''ll cancel it even during the trial period depending on your motivation and effort in household chores.


    ¡ªY-yes! I''ll do my best!


    Her response drew an involuntary smile from me. Now I needed to find her a room.


    I felt compelled to explain the state of my house: ¡ªWell, about the reason for this state of disorder. I''m not very good at ordering and cleaning. I can know where I put things, but I can''t put them into practice when I try to organize. Think of this as just a trivial dump.


    ¡ªThat means Ser Deris''s housekeeping is catastrophic ¡ªshe stuck out her tongue, noticeably more relaxed.


    ¡ªUgh...! You say it quite frankly, huh? ¡ªI sighed, though I couldn''t help but nod.


    ¡ªBecause I''m thinking of being myself! I won''t hide anything from you!


    ?Yes, I''m glad about that?, I thought.


    ¡ªWe''ll begin large-scale training starting tomorrow. Since it''s a good opportunity, dedicate yourself to cleaning today.


    ¡ªSer Deris, are you going to help me? ¡ªshe looked at me with abandoned puppy eyes.


    ¡ªI suppose it hurts my heart to leave all this chaos to you. I''ll help you today. Go on, give me instructions.


    As I watched her organize my chaotic home, I wondered what kind of master I would be if I received instructions from my disciple.

 The road ahead

    ARCEUS PENDRAGON


    A week passed until we finally reached the entrance to the Forest of Dreams. By the way, it really lived up to its name. I anticipated that in another week, we would reach the Tenryuu mountains.


    Fortunately, our journey proceeded without incident. I spent a lot of time playing with Anastasia and practicing a couple of simple spells with Adelaide.


    The trees became taller and more ancient, their trunks twisted into strange and beautiful shapes that reminded me of the surrealist paintings I used to admire in my past life.


    The rattling of the carriage rocked me gently as we advanced along the insidious path. The tree trunks became more twisted and ancient, covered in luminescent moss that emitted a soft bluish glow in the growing twilight.


    Though, honestly, who would call this forest the Forest of Dreams? Sounds like the title of a cheap fantasy novel.


    Anastasia interrupted my internal ramblings by cheerfully waving her hand, ¡ªLook, Arceus! Do you see those giant fireflies? They''re the famous Dancing Moons of the forest!


    I followed the direction of her finger and, indeed, huge luminous insects the size of fists were floating lazily between the trees. Their bodies emitted flashes of light that seemed to dance in the growing darkness. I couldn''t help but move closer to the window, nothing that glows like that in nature tends to be harmless. I wonder if they''re poisonous...


    I noticed how a shadow seemed to cross my mother''s face, her blue eyes appearing to contract slightly while scrutinizing outside the carriage.


    A shiver ran down my spine, not from fear, but from the sudden understanding that something wasn''t right. "Great, just what we needed to make this trip more interesting: an ominous presentiment."


    My father must have sensed the change in my mother''s expression, because he asked from the driver''s seat ¡ªWhat''s wrong, dear?


    ¡ªI''m not certain ¡ªmom responded in a low voice¡ª. But something doesn''t feel right. The forest is... too quiet.


    My father said nothing but I imagined he was frowning. I sharpened my ears, realizing that, indeed, apart from the noise of the carriage and the occasional flashes of the Dancing Moons, the forest seemed to have sunk into an unnatural silence. You couldn''t hear the song of nocturnal birds, nor the whisper of small creatures in the undergrowth.


    This doesn''t look good at all, I told myself, feeling how anxiety began to grow in my chest. In my previous life, this would be the moment when the protagonist of a horror movie would make a stupid decision.The narrative has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the infringement.


    ¡ªMom? Is everything alright? ¡ªI asked, trying to keep my voice calm.


    Adelaide forced a smile, stroking my white hair. ¡ªEverything is fine, my little one ¡ªshe responded, in what was clearly a white lie¡ª. I''m just a bit tired from the journey.


    Yeah, right, I thought, resisting the urge to roll my eyes. And I''m the King of the Dwarves. Come on, mom, I''m small, not stupid.


    Anastasia, always the more perceptive of us two, wasn''t so easily fooled. Her red eyes moved from our mother to our father.


    ¡ªSomething''s wrong, isn''t it? ¡ªshe asked directly.


    Well done, sister. Now prepare for mom''s inevitable evasive response. Adelaide looked at Anastasia with an ironic smile. ¡ªWe''re being cautious, my child ¡ªshe responded carefully¡ª. The Forest of Dreams can be unpredictable, and we must be prepared for any eventuality.


    Translation: "Yes, something''s wrong, but we don''t want to scare you," I mentally interpreted. I appreciate the attempt to protect us, but honestly, I''d rather know what we''re facing.


    Anastasia nodded, pursing her lips. Without saying another word, she moved closer to me and wrapped a protective arm around me. I cuddled against her, seeking comfort in her presence, although a part of me felt a bit embarrassed for needing protection.


    Come on, Arceus, you have an adult''s mind. You should be the one protecting your sister, not the other way around. The carriage continued advancing, going deeper and deeper into the depths of the forest. The trees became denser, their branches intertwining over the path, creating a natural canopy that blocked much of the evening light. The shadows lengthened, dancing unsettlingly with each movement of the carriage.


    ¡ªStop the carriage! ¡ªAdelaide shouted, frowning.


    The vehicle stopped abruptly, and for a moment, the silence was absolute. I felt how my heart began to beat hard, adrenaline rushing through my veins. Here we go, I mentally prepared myself for whatever was about to happen. I knew this journey couldn''t be that simple.


    Adelaide jumped out along with Atlas looking towards the tall trees while narrowing their eyes.


    ¡ªShow yourselves, cowards! Face me face to face!


    Dad, I don''t think provoking the bad guys is the best strategy right now.


    Then...


    An unexpected change fell like lightning in a clear sky, it was a strange sensation that we all felt.


    This strange sensation crept up my skin. It was hard to describe, but something about it felt... twisted. I felt this unknown sinister feeling shake my body. The same happened to mom, when I saw her usually calm expression quickly harden.


    Just then, the sky was suddenly covered by thick, dark clouds. The way they moved didn''t look like any clouds I had seen before. The wind began to swirl noisily over the trees.


    A laugh resonated in the air. It was an unsettling laugh, darkened by the noise, that resonated and overlapped many times. Something blackish, like pure darkness, sprouted from nowhere. That unsettling black smoke, like what you might expect to sprout from a volcano, began to unite into a human form.


    Tall and imposing, he wore a black robe that seemed to absorb the light around it. His face was hidden behind a white mask, smooth and featureless, that reflected light in an unsettling way.


    ¡ªWell, how you''ve grown. Long time no see, Atlas. The legendary combat mage, it''s an honor.


    The mere sight of him, the mere sound of his voice, made me freeze as if something was gripping my soul with an iron fist. I felt as if my entire body had turned to ice. I couldn''t do anything. My soul understood that the being before me was a being of absolute power that humans couldn''t resist.


    My father''s face hardened and his eyes narrowed dangerously, a drop of sweat fell down the sides of his forehead, his posture tense and ready for combat.


    ¡ªWho are you?! How do you know me?! What do you seek here?! ¡ªMy father''s voice trembled slightly.

 The road ahead (2)

    The figure tilted his head slightly, as if considering the question. ¡ªI''m known as Enigma ¡ªhe responded in an almost magnanimous tone¡ª. And what I seek... well, that should be obvious.


    With a gesture of his hand, Enigma pointed towards the carriage, where Anastasia was protecting me. ¡ªThe young prodigy, of course. The genius you''ve been hiding so jealously.


    I felt my heart stop for an instant. The fear I had been keeping at bay overwhelmed me with crushing force. They were here for Anastasia, I realized with horror. All of this was for her.


    ¡ªWhat do you want with Anastasia?!


    ¡ªYou have no right to know.


    ¡ªDon''t you dare touch my children!


    Enigma laughed softly, the sound distorted by the mask.


    ¡ªOh, my dear Adelaide ¡ªhe said in a condescending tone that made my blood boil¡ª. You have no idea what''s at stake here.


    My father stepped forward, a blue aura roared over his body, visibly intensifying. ¡ªEnough! I swear! If you take one more step towards my daughter, one of us will die here!


    Inside the carriage, I couldn''t help but tremble, clinging to my sister. I had never seen my parents like this, so fierce and terrifying.


    ¡ªArceus ¡ªwhispered Anastasia, without taking her eyes off the confrontation¡ª. Whatever happens, don''t leave my side, understood?


    I nodded, unable to form words. My mind struggled to comprehend the gravity of the situation.


    Outside, the tension reached its peak. Enigma extended his arms, and suddenly, the air filled with an ominous buzzing.


    A dome of red energy rose above us, isolating us from the outside world. Panic threatened to overtake me as I realized we were trapped.


    ¡ªI regret that we have to come to this ¡ªsaid Enigma, although his tone suggested he regretted nothing at all¡ª. But you must understand this is for a greater good.


    A greater good? I thought bitterly. It''s always the "greater good" when someone wants to justify something terrible.


    I tried to think of ways to help, but, so far, nothing came to mind. I could only grit my teeth and hold on.


    I saw how my parents exchanged a quick look, a silent conversation passing between them in an instant, and I knew they were willing to give everything to protect us.


    ¡ªAnastasia ¡ªmy mother called, without taking her eyes off Enigma¡ª. Whatever happens, protect your brother.


    Great, just what I needed: feeling like a complete useless in the middle of a crisis.


    Anastasia nodded, biting her lower lip while her shoulders trembled. She took my hand and pulled me closer to her, ready to defend me with her life if necessary.


    Part of me felt grateful for her protection, while another part felt frustrated by my own helplessness.


    ¡ªAdelaide ¡ªAtlas''s voice was low and urgent¡ª. Protect the children. I''ll handle Enigma.Unauthorized content usage: if you discover this narrative on Amazon, report the violation.


    Mom nodded briefly. Atlas advanced towards Enigma, mom turned towards the carriage, only to find herself face to face with a monstrous creature.


    This is bad, very bad.


    It was a four-armed humanoid monster, its skin black and shiny like tar. The monster was different from ordinary contaminants. It resembled them in appearance, but possessed a more humanoid body. The creature stood on its hind legs, while its front limbs resembled human hands. Its eyes were closed and sewn shut. Something constantly moved behind the eyelids. The powerful abomination towered above its peers, reaching almost five meters in height. A grotesque smile spread across its deformed face, revealing rows of razor-sharp teeth.


    ¡ªWell, well ¡ªsaid the creature, its voice a guttural growl that made my skin crawl¡ª. What do we have here? A little elf who thinks she can protect her offspring.


    Mom gritted her teeth, while raising an eyebrow. ¡ªI am Adelaide, princess of the elves. And you, monster, won''t take another step towards my children.


    The creature chuckled, ¡ªOh, I like it when they have spirit. Makes it more fun to break them.


    Without warning, Adelaide launched herself at the monster with inhuman speed.


    Adelaide''s fist crashed powerfully against the monster''s face.


    BOOM!!


    The monster''s back almost bent backwards, but it stomped and resisted the blow.


    From its trembling eyes and the expression of surprise on Adelaide''s face, I realized she had put all her strength behind that punch.


    However, mom didn''t have time to stay surprised, because the monster''s own fist flew after.


    Whoosh-!!


    SMACK!!


    Adelaide took a hit right in the middle of her face and flew off like a cannonball. The force of the impact was powerful enough to shake the entire forest, as her body destroyed dozens of trees in its path, finally crashing against a particularly thick tree.


    BOOM!


    As if a meteorite had crashed there, the tree sank deeply when she collapsed with her head tilted.


    I opened my eyes wide, not wanting to believe what I was seeing. A knot formed in my throat when I felt everything crumbling before my eyes. My skin bristled with shock and I felt my spirit split in two...


    Anastasia brought her trembling hands to her face, clearly scared. Soon, a voice was heard crying sadly and her breathing was interrupted when she bit her lower lip.


    She was crying and her little shoulders were shaking.


    ¡ªAnastasia ¡ªmom whispered when we heard her voice even from the distance that separated us, while she shakily rose from the tree, wiping the blood coming from her mouth. Her voice sounded tired and trembling¡ª Take Arceus and run. Don''t look back, understood?


    Anastasia clenched her jaw, while crying with great affliction. She couldn''t or wouldn''t speak. I was seized by an enormous, indescribable courage, more terrible than any I had ever felt in my life.


    ¡ªBut mom...


    ¡ªOBEY ANASTASIA!! ¡ªAtlas roared with anguish. It was the first time I had heard his voice like this, the kind of voice one would only use in desperate situations.


    Anastasia pulled my hand, dragging me away from the battle. We ran between the trees, the sound of combat gradually fading behind us. The branches scratched us as we passed, but we didn''t stop. We couldn''t stop.


    ¡ªAna ¡ªI panted as we ran¡ª. Where are we going?


    ¡ªI don''t know ¡ªshe replied, her voice trembling while wiping away the tears that kept falling from her clouded eyes¡ª. Just... away. We have to get away.


    We ran until our lungs burned and our legs trembled. Finally, we stopped in a small clearing, gasping for air. The forest around us was silent, but it was an unsettling silence, as if all life had stopped to observe us.


    ¡ªAna ¡ªI said between broken breaths¡ª. We have to go back. We can''t leave them.


    It didn''t occur to me to think about maturity. It seemed that at that moment I was acting like the four-year-old I was on the outside, but I didn''t care. I wasn''t going to leave behind my family, whom I had come to love.


    Anastasia, stunned, stiff, looked at the ground. ¡ªWe can''t, Arceus. Mom and dad told us to run. We have to stay safe.


    Stay safe, but at what cost?


    Suddenly, a rustle in the nearby bushes put us on alert. We turned, expecting to see some magical creature, but instead, a familiar figure emerged from among the trees.


    ¡ªChildren ¡ªsaid mom, her voice tired but relieved¡ª. Thank heavens you''re safe.


    My face lit up, forming a wide and genuine smile.


    We ran towards her, hugging her tightly. But something wasn''t right. Her body felt... different. Colder, more rigid.


    I looked up and saw that her eyes, normally blue and warm, were now a cold crimson color. A smile that wasn''t hers spread across her face. ¡ªOh, little ones ¡ªshe said in a voice that wasn''t our mother''s¡ª. You should have run farther.


    Damn it, fear froze my blood. They found us.

 Crossroads

    ATLAS PENDRAGON.


    The wind blew softly, stirring my tied-up long white hair. My red eyes scrutinized every movement of my opponent, searching for any sign of weakness.


    This guy was dangerous, but I couldn''t show fear. I had to keep calm and think clearly.


    Adelaide was fighting against that Nightmare-level monster, Anastasia and Arceus were in danger, and now I had to face this masked lunatic.


    Without warning, Enigma launched his first attack. A crimson energy burst sprouted from his hands, slithering towards me like a hungry cobra. With a simple movement of my hand, the ground rumbled as a ten-meter earth wall rose from the ground and curved in front of me, absorbing the impact of the attack. With a fluid gesture, the earth barrier crumbled and its fragments turned into sharp projectiles that flew towards Enigma.


    An energy sphere materialized around Enigma, disintegrating the stone projectiles. Enigma extended his hand and a wave of dark energy shot towards me.


    I reacted by instinct, creating an earth barrier in front of me. The impact was brutal, making the ground shake beneath my feet and cracking my improvised shield.


    ¡ªWho the hell are you, Enigma? ¡ªI provoked, keeping my tone light despite the tension I felt.


    Enigma tilted his head, as if considering my words. ¡ªI don''t have to answer anything to you. But tell me, how do you think your dear wife is doing against my Special-grade Nightmare? Do you think she''ll be able to protect your precious children?


    The mention of my family made my blood boil.


    ?Don''t fall for his game. He''s trying to destabilize you?.


    I couldn''t help my voice from hardening. ¡ªAdelaide is more than capable of taking care of herself and our children. You should worry more about yourself.


    I raised my right hand and a torrent of blue flames flew like a laser beam towards Enigma.


    I watched as he raised his left hand, materializing an energy sphere that surrounded and protected his body.


    The blue flames fell on the sphere causing a devastating shock wave. The dust cloud rose while the surrounding trees were destroyed, leaving a crater in the ground and a desert area of dozens of meters. I watched with frustration as his sphere resisted the flames while they dispersed around.


    ¡ªIf my barrier were thinner, maybe you could break through it, Uhm ¡ªhis cold voice sounded as if he were praising me.


    This story has been taken without authorization. Report any sightings. Ignoring his comment, I teleported behind him. My fist, wrapped in blue flames, descended towards his unprotected head. To my surprise, he simply tilted his head to one side, dodging my blow as if it were nothing, while turning around and raising his hands, counterattacking with huge crimson rays.


    ?Damn it!?


    I was forced to retreat due to the impact of the rays on my magical barrier. A cloud of dust rose while my protection nullified almost all damage. When my body stopped, I arched my back and touched the ground with both hands.


    ?Let''s see how you dodge this?.


    Dozens of earth spikes, as thick and tall as centennial trees, rose from the ground where Enigma was. I saw him rise into the sky, surpassing the height of the spikes while his clothes waved in the wind, completely dodging my earthen attack.


    That''s when I saw it: a purplish-black gas rose in front of his face. My blood froze upon recognizing it.


    ¡ªShit! ¡ªI exclaimed as I felt my face pale and my body begin to tremble.


    ?This poison... it''s not a simple neurotoxin. It''s similar to that of S-grade giant snakes. The ancestral sinister thoughts and intentions mixed inside make it almost impossible to eliminate.?


    The revelation hit me like a hammer: Enigma must have modified his heart, partially turning himself into a giant snake. That''s why he showed no fear, he was immune to his own poison. However, for anyone else, even for a High-Rank mage, it would be practically impossible to survive.


    I forced a smile while evaluating the situation. The attack area was too wide and didn''t differentiate between friends and enemies. If Enigma used that strategy, many innocent lives would undoubtedly be lost, including my children.


    ?I can''t let this happen.?


    ¡ªSeal of the ten thousand poisons! ¡ªI shouted as the lumps on my shoulders exploded and a red ring of flesh twisted forming a circular rune, sealing the poisonous gas inside.


    Only after securing the poison did I have time to look at him. Enigma sighed, as if disappointed by my intervention.


    I moved my hands and huge blue fireballs filled the sky like large stars. The waves of flames crossed the firmament, almost completely evaporating the air molecules. The two miniature suns crashed against his protective sphere, while he clicked his tongue with his left hand stretched out.


    The tremendous collision made earth and sky tremble. Terrifying changes occurred in the forest while my suns threatened to destroy everything. The gravitational force distorted space and time, while dust, earth, rocks, and trees flew everywhere, reducing part of the forest to rubble.


    I observed Enigma inside his sphere, with his arms crossed trying to resist the force of both stars, he seemed to be struggling.


    ¡ªDon''t get so cocky! ¡ªhis voice, previously devoid of emotion, now conveyed great anger.


    A great light illuminated the forest when a crimson energy field manifested as Enigma dramatically opened his arms. The shock wave shook the forest while dust and pieces of stone flew away. My eyes widened when I saw my suns disintegrate instantly.


    I clicked my tongue in amazement when my face hardened while the world decelerated around me. My entire body was covered by a powerful blue aura, maximizing my senses.


    [Divine Art: Six-Winged Celestial Archangel (S-)]


    I felt how my skin began to glow with a golden radiance, my muscles tensed and grew, and from my back sprouted six majestic wings of pure light. The magic transformed my muscles into living armor, and my physique expanded to exceed two meters in size.


    ¡ªIf you don''t get serious, I''ll tear you to pieces, Enigma! Enough games! ¡ªI roared like a beast.


    A powerful red aura roared in his body ¡ªSounds good to me.

 Crossroads (2)

    ARCEUS PENDRAGON


    I slightly bent my knees and shot towards him. The floor under my feet collapsed into countless pieces forming a huge spider web that shook much of the forest, raising a cloud of dust.


    In less than a second, my right fist covered in blue flames was upon him. Enigma received the blow with his left palm, generating large shock waves that shook the air.


    In an instant, we both disappeared simultaneously.


    I felt his presence behind me and kicked hard raising my left leg. He appeared below my leg, with his torso bent. I raised my arm, blocking his right fist with the palm of my hand, when we disappeared again.


    We moved throughout the sky, our bodies were just two lines that quickly collided with each other from left to right. The thunderous blows resonated across the battlefield, knocking down trees and raising dust clouds.


    ?His speed is incredible?


    Enigma did a flip in the air while directing his right fist to my face. I tilted my neck dodging his powerful blows. In a blink, I had to duck to evade his flying kick.


    I moved my right arm and hit his mask hard, making his neck tilt backward, my blue flames enveloping the impact. But I immediately received his counterattack when his left fist crashed into my face, forcing me to lean back in the air.


    Dozens of thunderous blows resonated in the atmosphere before we finally separated. I panted while trying to stabilize my breathing, my chest rising and falling agitatedly.


    Our gazes crossed for a moment before disappearing simultaneously, turning into rays of light that collided with an explosion. Our fists collided with a thunderous sound that shook the forest. We threw another blow with the left hand almost at the same time.


    BOOM!


    The shock waves exploded simultaneously while blue flames emerged from my fists and accumulated in my arms in an attempt to knock him down.


    ?I have to find an opening.?


    Suddenly, Enigma kicked towards my chest. I raised my leg and counterattacked by kicking his calf. Both of us forcefully stopped this movement in the air while shock waves moved through the forest.


    We separated immediately. I saw how he stepped back a few paces. Suddenly, the ground rumbled as if an intense earthquake had been unleashed.


    Dudududududu!


    I opened my eyes forcefully upon feeling where the trembling came from. Adelaide''s battle against the Nightmare was affecting the rest of the battlefield.


    In my moment of distraction, Enigma shot out like a rocket towards me, leaving residual images behind him.This book''s true home is on another platform. Check it out there for the real experience.


    BOOM!


    We were both faint shadows continuously clashing and separating in the sky, creating thunderous echoes. I managed to connect a high kick to his chin, making his torso lean backward in the air, but his right fist found my face with equal force, tilting my body backward.


    A thunderous blow resonated when his fist impacted my right cheek at the same time that my left arm covered in flames found his left cheek. Our legs collided in the air simultaneously in a high kick while the energies clashed and dispersed between each other.


    I tried to hit him again, but he jumped and counterattacked with a flying kick. I had no choice but to do a backflip. When I raised my head, he had disappeared.


    Before I could react, his elbow powerfully crashed against my nose. My body flew backward while I struggled to maintain balance.


    ?He''s very fast, I couldn''t see anything?


    My expression twisted while evaluating the situation, feeling my broken nose. Blood was dripping and I quickly cleaned it with my hand.


    ?I won''t give up so easily?.


    I shot out like a comet towards him, hitting his head at full speed. However, he disappeared in an instant. I felt his presence behind me just before a sharp pain pierced my right cheek, he had hit me with such power that it made my face spin.


    He vanished again while I looked in all directions. A kick came from the sky and crashed against my abdomen.


    ¡ªWhat''s wrong with you? Why don''t we have some more fun? Are you already tired of fighting? ¡ªhis voice sounded mocking behind me, making my body shudder.


    ***


    ARCEUS PENDRAGON.


    Everything happened too quickly for me.


    Time seemed to slow down when I saw that the illusion spell reflecting Adelaide''s face and figure had disappeared, revealing a man whose robe was dark with burn marks, with the hood half-raised over his bald head.


    The bright red of his eyes was interrupted by dark spots that seemed to float on their surface, matching darker spots, ashen gray in color, that marred his cold, marble-like skin. I saw his hand approaching at an inhuman speed, felt paralyzing terror course through my body, and in that instant, I knew I was going to die.


    A sharp, burning pain exploded in my abdomen. I looked down to see the hands protruding from my stomach, while I watched the blood, my blood, staining my clothes and dripping to the ground.


    ¡ªArceus!! ¡ªAnastasia''s desperate cry seemed to come from far away.


    ¡ªUwaaaaahhhhh... aaa! ¡ªit was a cry of pain.


    My legs gave way, and I fell to my knees.


    The world around me began to blur, sounds became distant and muffled. I could feel life escaping with each beat of my heart, with each drop of blood leaving my body.


    Fear, cold and paralyzing, took hold of me.


    Come on... I can''t allow myself to die here.


    I didn''t want to die, not like this, not now. There was so much to do, so much to live for. Desperation took over my mind as I struggled to stay conscious.


    ¡ªPlease, ¡ªI silently begged, to any power that might be listening¡ª, I cannot die here. I can''t leave Anastasia alone. Please, I need a miracle.


    Unfortunately, time was fair to everyone and reality was cold and indifferent.


    ¡ª...Haha.


    The pain was paralyzing beyond imagination, but still, a hollow laugh escaped my lips.


    Should I say this was too unfair? No, I had been too greedy, hoping my enemy would be soft or lenient with me.


    Damn it...


    There was no escape.


    In reality, no matter how much I racked my brains, I couldn''t think of any way to save myself.


    I didn''t care if others criticized me for being pathetic or behaving like an insect.


    I want to live...!


    As long as I could survive, I couldn''t let go of that desire, even when death''s footsteps were getting closer and closer.


    Then...


    With my trembling lips...


    ¡ª...Help...


    Grabbing the grass below as if it were straw...


    ¡ª...Please...


    While softly panting and moaning through my teeth...


    ¡ª... Please help...!


    I screamed loudly.


    Helplessness overwhelmed me as I realized I couldn''t do anything to change my situation. My body refused to respond, and I felt darkness beginning to envelop me.


    Is this for real? Was it really going to end like this?


    I don''t want...


    ...to die...


    I heard Anastasia scream my name one more time, and then... silence.

 The moment of truth

    ADELAIDE STARLIGHT.


    I felt how the air became denser and heavier as it descended around me, as if the atmosphere itself resisted our presence, while I watched the Special grade Nightmare approach.


    The distance between us was reduced to mere feet, and our opposing forces intensified, saturating the area with an electrifying presence that made the trees tremble.


    "This creature... its power is immense," I reflected while observing the black vapor that slowly rose from its broad shoulders. The magical energy emanating from the creature was so vast that it gave goosebumps to any nearby creature, seeping under the Nightmare''s feet like a dark mist.


    The difference in size between us was considerable, like David facing Goliath.


    Without warning, the monster thrust its fist forward. I didn''t flinch; I faced the attack head-on, charging my own fist with dense crackling energy.


    KABOOM!!


    The collision of our blows caused a cataclysmic explosion that shook the air, destroying everything in its path. I felt my arm tremble when I was momentarily forced to step back from the impact.


    "Some blood vessels are broken," I quickly assessed when blood came from my arm, but I remained firm, frowning.


    A shockwave shook the ground when the monster disappeared. My left eye instinctively moved backward upon sensing its presence.


    "Behind!"


    In a fraction of a second, I jumped into the air, barely dodging a rain of countless blows that fell where I had been before.


    I spun in the air, and before the tip of my right boot could touch the ground to stabilize myself, I saw a huge fist approaching at full speed toward my face.


    "Too close!"


    I bent my back backward at the last moment, feeling the air displacement when his fists passed grazing my face, destroying the ground and raising a cloud of dust.


    I tried to position myself behind the monster, moving at great speed, but when I realized it, the Nightmare was already at my back. "Its speed is impressive," I acknowledged while turning my body to counterattack.


    We began a frantic exchange of blows: my left arm against his, then the right, but when the monster used its four arms, I had to alternate and strike with both arms at the same time in an incredible barrage of fists that violently shook the air.


    I put all my strength in my legs and, in an instant, positioned myself in front of the monster. In the air, my powerful kick connected with its jaw, making its neck bend unnaturally, but at the same time, I felt its left fist connect with my face, tilting my body backward.


    BOOM!!


    Each exchange of blows between us released shock waves that fragmented the ground and tore trees from their roots. The terrain under our feet split into thousands of pieces, forming a huge crater tens of meters wide.The author''s tale has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.


    I felt blood spring from my nose after receiving a brutal blow to the jaw.


    ¡ªOh heavens... What is this? ¡ªI heard the monster murmur with surprise when my right fist crashed into its stomach, sending it flying in a vertical line.


    I didn''t give it time to recover. In a blink, I appeared above it and swung my left leg downward, forcefully hitting its head. I watched as its body sank into the ground with tremendous power, breaking the already devastated terrain even more.


    ¡ªJust a little, but I felt that ¡ªsaid the Nightmare while slowly rising, shaking the dust off its enormous body.


    I barely had time to blink when the monster was already upon me.


    "Damn it!"


    I jumped upward just as its fist split the ground where I had been a fraction of a second before. The monster didn''t waste time and swung its arm backward, pursuing my body in the air.


    I bent my legs in the air, forming an angle that allowed me to dodge its arm that passed at lightning speed. I found myself upside down in the sky, just one or two meters above the creature, and I couldn''t help showing a mocking smile while seeing another of its arms approaching at full speed.


    Spinning my body, I bombarded the monster with a powerful spinning kick in the air. My blow connected with its face, making its body bend downward, but then my eyes opened forcefully upon seeing an eel-like protrusion, with bulging veins and a row of large fangs, inches from my face.


    "Damn!" In an instant, I spun my body in the air and landed with one hand touching the ground and the other behind my back.


    ¡ªTch ¡ªI clicked my tongue while observing the monster''s long and thick tongue that extended from its open mouth like an eel.


    The eel began to chase me from left to right at speed in rapid succession, but in a blink, I positioned myself in front of the Nightmare and forcefully closed its mouth by pushing my right hand upward, cutting its long tongue in the process with its own sharp teeth.


    I saw surprise on its face for an instant before an avalanche of blows rained down on my body.


    Every time its fists flew past, the ground exploded and the air seemed to split into pieces. Each blow had enough force to destroy an entire building with a simple graze.


    While we exchanged offense and defense countless times, I gradually found myself pushed back by its relentless assault. The shock waves shook the surrounding trees, and power emanated from the very center of the battlefield.


    ¡ªYou are more formidable than I initially thought. Very well, let''s raise the stakes ¡ªthe creature mocked with a twisted smile on its eyeless face.


    I watched as hundreds of red spikes appeared from nowhere. The Nightmare launched forward, and the ground crumbled under its feet, collapsing upon itself while crimson thorns sprouted like weeds.


    I felt the red spikes emerge from the ground around me, but they shattered against the layer of bright energy that covered my skin.


    I watched it pass through the crackling cloud that had remained after its attack.


    A dozen protrusions, similar to tree branches composed of crimson blood, orbited around it. My heart was beating hard, but I maintained my composure.


    With a sudden movement, the creature sent the branches flying toward me like missiles. Without hesitation, I materialized in my hand a spear that shone with the intensity of an amethyst. My movements, faster than the common eye could follow, cut through the rain of blood that fell upon me.


    The pieces passed or bounced harmlessly against my protective barrier. I watched how the branches, as thick as tree trunks, moved like monstrous anacondas, but broke like glass before each precise movement of my spear.


    Suddenly, the monster was upon me. The collision shook the foundations of the forest, and my spear became a line of vibrant golden light that cut through the screen of dust. "I can''t retreat," I told myself while observing the monster''s silhouette highlighted by the clash of our collisions.


    I found myself forced to take a step back, moving my spear desperately to defend myself from the dozens of red branches that bombarded me without cease, while each spike and large branch vanished against the layer of energy that protected my body.


    The Nightmare''s relentless attacks pushed me further and further back, and with each blow, I could feel how the creature''s ferocity increased. I found myself surrounded by dozens of crimson branches that covered my body in a red sphere, drowning me in all directions.

 The moment of truth (2)

    The ground beneath my feet crumbled; the earth split and fragmented, leaving a crater that grew with each second. "I must find an opening," I thought, focusing on maintaining my protection while looking for an opportunity.


    In a blink, seizing the precise moment when the wave of branches passed, I disappeared with a flash of golden lightning. I found myself standing at the bottom of a deep crater, grateful that my body had not yet suffered any damage.


    With no time to catch my breath, I spread my legs and moved my spear, while the monster and I disappeared into a nebulous cloud of dust and golden lightning.


    I was the first to reappear, but the cost was high. My clothes had been torn from stomach to ribs, and I could feel blood flowing from the wound. The pain was intense, but I ignored it. As princess of the high elves, I had been trained to endure much worse wounds.


    As the cloud of energies dissipated, I spotted the creature on the other side of the destroyed forest, floating ten meters high. I noted with satisfaction that it had a hand pressed against its neck, with blood escaping between its fingers. "At least I managed to wound it," I thought, though a grimace of pain crossed my face.


    The Nightmare slowly moved towards me, its nose wrinkled in a bitter expression while trying, unsuccessfully, to hide its surprise at my survival. It was then that I felt the change in the air. A dark and malevolent energy began to emanate from the monster, distorting reality around it.


    ¡ªIt''s time to end this, princess. ¡ªit said with disdain while its form crackled with energy.


    But its voice sounded muffled, drowned out by the sound of blood rushing to my head. The world became blurry and my eyes fixed on the Nightmare.


    [Domain Expansion: Incarnation of Perfection (S)]


    The world around us seemed to stop for an instant. Then, with an explosion of dark energy, a dome of pure evil expanded from the monster''s body, engulfing us both.


    ?No, I cannot allow this to end like this. ?


    With a cry, I channeled all my energy.


    [Domain Expansion: Requiem of Stars (S)]


    My own energy burst outward, colliding with the monster''s in an explosion of power that shook the very foundations of the earth.


    For a moment, our domains fought for supremacy, two opposing forces in a precarious balance. The air seemed to tear as two spheres of energy rapidly expanded, colliding with each other with colossal force.


    My domain filled the air with bright flashes, as if the night sky had descended to surround them. Shooting stars began to fall in all directions, with the power to destroy entire cities.


    Fortunately, the barrier of the domain itself isolated the area and prevented destruction in the outside world.


    The stars impacted the domain''s ground with devastating force, creating craters and raising dust clouds. However, the Nightmare''s domain manifested as an overwhelming darkness.


    Hundreds of black hands, gigantic and deformed, emerged from nowhere, intertwining and overlapping their fingers twisting like hungry worms. The clash between both domains was spectacular and terrifying. The starlight fought against the absolute darkness of the Nightmare, creating a spectacle of lights and shadows that would have taken any observer''s breath away.


    Gradually, the gigantic black hands began to gain ground, crushing and absorbing my stars. I felt how my domain crumbled under the overwhelming pressure of my enemy.


    ?No, I cannot fail. Not now.?Stolen from Royal Road, this story should be reported if encountered on Amazon.


    I fought with all my strength, but it was useless. My domain completely collapsed, leaving me exposed to the devastating power of the Nightmare.


    The force of the impact threw me backward, my body hitting the ground with brutal force, pain exploding in every fiber of my being. I could feel blood flowing from another deep wound in my side. The black hands lunged at me, threatening to crush and destroy me from within.


    I had to move, had to fight, but my body refused to respond. Pain and exhaustion had taken me to the limit of my strength.


    I began to calculate my remaining options. Even if I used the domain expansion again, it wouldn''t last long enough. I bit my lip, frustrated at having let myself get into such an unpleasant situation, I had no choice but to use it.


    I didn''t know how severe the backlash would be when using it, but I had no choice but to try.


    I took a deep breath, closed my eyes, and searched deep within myself. Upon releasing it, I found myself with an almost strangling amount of energy while my body burned. The world around me became blurry while an almost palpable aura of different colors enveloped me.


    An ancestral power, dormant for years in the depths of my being, began to awaken. This was an ancient art, passed down from generation to generation only to elven royalty. Golden runes, bright as newborn stars, appeared on my skin, serpentining up my arms and legs.


    [Ancient Art - Divine Dawn (S+)]


    Power flowed through me like a torrent, revitalizing every cell in my body. The world around me seemed to slow down, every movement of the black hands visible with crystal clarity.


    The space around me distorted and the ground beneath my feet began to crack from the energy surrounding my body. Color disappeared from my sight, as I could only see in shades of gray.


    The surge of energy that had been ravaging around me was suddenly absorbed and compressed into my body while the sensation of insurmountable power overwhelmed me. The feeling of superiority, above everything, living or not, in this universe, almost drove me mad. I suppressed the growing temptation to raze everything around me out of pure mania.


    ¡ªKuh! ¡ªI gasped aloud. The energy in the atmosphere seemed to bend to my will, as if even nature was now under my command. I moved, the world moved around me in slow motion as I jumped.


    My spear became a blur of light and movement, cutting through the black hands as if they were paper. A surge of violet lightning coiled around my body as I effortlessly dodged the thousands of giant hands shooting towards me.


    Every hand that the purple lightning tendrils touched disintegrated and withered instantly, but for every tendril that crumbled, dozens replaced it. Using the hands shooting at me as footholds, I quickly advanced through the avalanche of hands that were thicker than my body, approaching the Nightmare''s core.


    The Nightmare roared in frustration and fury, its domain trembling under the force of my attacks as it unleashed its arsenal of spells uncontrollably, a deluge of crimson branches along with thousands of giant hands, but it was useless. But I knew I couldn''t maintain this pace for long.


    The energy running through my veins had a price, and soon I would have to pay it. Gathering all the energy I had left, I launched one final desperate attack. My spear glowed with blinding power.


    As my spear burst with a gigantic violet lightning around me, deadly speckled spirals of electricity tore through the tsunami of hands and instantly shattered it.


    The spear cut through the air, flying with the force of a meteorite and sliced through the monster''s defenses as if they didn''t exist. The spear pierced its chest and emerged through its back, and shot toward the dome that isolated the area from the outside world.


    It crashed with colossal force, the barrier shook like a tsunami and soon, it shattered into countless glass fragments. At least now, my children would be able to escape. The Nightmare struggled to stand, its face pale as it trembled, its arms glowing with speckled lightning.


    It thrashed desperately, as if trying to shake them off. The lightning jumped over it, devouring the Nightmare from the chest outward, along with blood from internal organs spilling out. The world seemed to stop for an instant.


    Then, with a deafening roar, the Nightmare''s domain crumbled. The creature itself began to disintegrate, its body consumed by the power of my attack.


    ¡ªImpossible... ¡ªwas the last thing I heard before the Nightmare completely disappeared, reduced to nothing but dust in the wind.


    The outside world slowly came back into focus, but I barely noticed it. Exhaustion hit me like an avalanche, my legs giving way beneath my weight. I fell to the ground with a thud, my body refusing to respond to my commands. Pain and fatigue clouded my vision, but I could still see my children in the distance, helpless and vulnerable.


    ?No, I can''t give up now.?


    With superhuman effort, I began to crawl across the ground. My body roared with agony and pain, the backlash from using that ability was greater than I had expected, but I didn''t stop, couldn''t stop. Not when my children needed me.


    ¡ªAnastasia... ¡ªI whispered, my voice barely audible¡ª. I have to... protect them...


    But even as I struggled, I could feel darkness claiming me. My strength was leaving me, my vision darkening.


    ?I''m sorry... I''m so sorry...?


    Unconsciousness finally claimed me, dragging me into an abyss of darkness and silence.

 The power is in the numbers

    ANASTASIA PENDRAGON.


    Suddenly, "mom''s" body changed and resplendent flames rose from her body, quickly forming a silhouette wearing black armor.


    I couldn''t believe it, I watched in horror as a hand pierced through my younger brother''s body.


    ¡ªArceus! ¡ªI screamed desperately, it was a cry of pain and anguish.


    Arceus was on the ground, his small body convulsing while blood stained his clothes.


    ''No, no, no. This can''t be happening.'' I thought, while trying to deny reality as my trembling hands formed a wind spell, launching it with all the strength I could gather towards the attacker.


    The man dodged the attack easily, but I didn''t care.


    Arceus had his eyes wide open and an expression of surprise on his face, I stumbled towards his small body that was only three steps away from me.


    I checked him, but all I could do was accept this irreversible truth.


    My knees bent and fell to the ground, my crimson eyes were filled with pain while hot tears ran down my cheeks, washing away the blood and dust.


    Boom! Boom! Boom!


    I didn''t have time to feel what I was witnessing. I looked up when I heard the wind whistling in my ears while barely dodging the fist of the man who had seriously injured Arceus.


    His speed was terrifying, almost supernatural. ''How can he move so fast?'' I felt my heart beating hard against my chest. I had no time to think more, as a sound like tearing paper came from my right.


    Burst-


    A sharp pain exploded in my right cheek and suddenly I found myself looking at the ground. ''Damn it! He''s too fast!'' My mind screamed while I struggled to stay conscious. I could barely register the whistle above my head before instinctively rolling.


    Burst-!


    026''s fist crashed into the ground where my head had been a second ago, shattering the earth. ''That was close!'' I thought, feeling how fear started to grow inside me.


    But I couldn''t let panic take over. Not now.


    My body rose while trembling at the same time as I took distance from the man.


    The man smiled coldly while looking at me ¡ªAllow me to introduce myself. I''m 026, and I''ve come to take you with us.


    026... those are numbers, not a person''s name. What kind of monsters are these?This text was taken from Royal Road. Help the author by reading the original version there.


    ¡ªNever!


    That''s when I saw it. Another figure emerged from the shadows, surrounding me.


    This is bad, very bad.


    ¡ª026, don''t play with the girl ¡ªanswered a deep male voice¡ª. We have orders.


    026 crossed his arms and pouted ¡ªLook who''s talking, at least here I''m not the one who enjoys torturing, isn''t that right, 045?


    045 stretched his arm dramatically ¡ªYeah, yeah, whatever you say.


    Everything happened so fast I could barely process what was happening. I saw how 026 moved with supernatural speed, his body leaving barely a residual image on my retina when his foot impacted directly in the center of my chest.


    The blow was devastating, but I wasn''t the one who received it, my water clone dissolved in an instant, turned into a simple puddle that soaked the forest floor.


    Now''s my chance!, I thought while stealthily materializing behind him.


    I positioned my legs with precision, feeling the familiar dagger I had always carried, this was a weapon I had only used in practice training with my mother, Adelaide.


    With a fluid movement, I swung the dagger in a perfectly straight line, cutting 026''s body in half.


    My heart was beating hard, waiting to see the result of my attack, but something was wrong. Very wrong. There was no blood, no real resistance in my cut, just a cloud of wind that clouded my vision and made me doubt everything I thought I knew about my opponent.


    What? A wind clone? But... When?! My mind desperately tried to comprehend what had just happened.


    Terror invaded me when I heard his voice behind me, a voice that made every hair on my neck stand on end. It was as if death itself was whispering in my ear.


    ¡ªI''m not so easy to kill ¡ªhe said, and I could feel the smile in his voice, that horrible satisfaction of having his prey exactly where he wanted it.


    My body reacted before my mind when I heard the whistle of air being cut by a deadly weapon. The sound was unmistakable, and sent chills down my spine. I threw myself to the ground with all the speed I could gather, feeling how his sword blade passed so close it cut some strands of my hair.


    Just as I was trying to get up from my crouching position, I saw from the corner of my eye a flying kick approaching my body with terrifying speed. My mind screamed for me to move, but my body didn''t respond fast enough.


    The impact was brutal, as if a speeding carriage had run me over without mercy. I felt how my body lost contact with the ground, turned into little more than a rag doll at the mercy of the forces that sent me flying through the air. Pain exploded in every part of my being as I went through the forest, crashing against several trees before my forced journey finally came to an end.


    ¡ªCough... cough... ¡ªmy body convulsed with a violent cough, and the metallic taste of blood flooded my mouth. ''He''s strong... really strong!'', I thought while trying to catch my breath.


    I was terrified.


    It was natural. It was the first time I had faced enemies of this level.


    Even if I had seen my mother''s fighting level up close, I had never seen anything like this.


    I leaned against a tree trunk, holding my side that throbbed with pain. Despite the situation, a part of me couldn''t help but feel a strange admiration. ''I haven''t given my all yet, but this guy... is something else'', I reflected while feeling the adrenaline running through my veins, keeping pain and fear at bay.


    But before I could catch my breath, I felt a presence behind me. ''Oh no!'' Panic took over me when I realized I had completely forgotten there was more than one adversary.


    A sharp pain pierced my back, and I felt how the cold metal of a sword sank into my flesh. Blood gushed from the wound, staining the ground beneath my feet. ''Damn it! I was careless!'' I felt how pain clouded my senses.


    I lowered my gaze to the blood dripping from my wound, then raised my eyes to look at 045, who was standing a few meters away. Anger began to boil inside me. Without saying a word, I extended my hand, releasing a wave of power that made the air around me vibrate. A clicking sound resonated in the clearing.


    I saw how 045''s eyes widened, and he stepped back instinctively.


    [Wind Blade (D-)]


    Before 045 could react, I launched my wind attack. A sharp pain pierced his right shoulder, and I saw how his body fell to the ground.

 The power is in the numbers (2)

    Then 026 was in front of me, his fist heading towards my face at superhuman speed. I managed to dodge it barely, feeling how the wind from his blow grazed my cheek. ''He''s too fast!'' My mind screamed while trying to follow his movements. But 026 was like a shadow, appearing and disappearing at will.


    Burst-


    A sharp pain exploded in my side when one of his hits connected. I felt how my ribs cracked under the impact force. I grunted in frustration, launching a cutting wind blast in all directions. But 026 simply dodged it as if it was nothing.


    I straightened up, ignoring the pain in my back, and prepared for what would come next.


    From the corner of my eye, I could see how 045 was getting up, grabbed his shoulder and looked at his hand, which was soaked in blood. Then, he turned his head and looked at me. An inexplicable seriousness drew on his face.


    With a roar, 045 launched himself at me, his sword enhanced with supernatural fire.


    I reacted by instinct, creating a water barrier in front of me. 045''s sword clashed against it, creating a vapor cloud that filled the air.


    Taking advantage of the confusion, I launched a cutting wind blast towards 045. I heard him grunt in pain when the attack connected, but I couldn''t relax.


    The air filled with electrical tension. Before I could react, I felt a blow to the back of my head. The world spun and I found myself looking at the starry sky, my body embedded in the ground.


    I got up staggering, feeling every hit and cut I had received.


    The sharp pain made me gasp, but I couldn''t allow myself to show weakness. Not when Arceus lay unconscious and vulnerable. I felt hot blood sliding down my skin, but did they think this was enough to stop me? A fearless smile formed on my lips.


    I felt the air charge with electricity when survival instinct, honed by years of training with mom, alerted me of imminent danger. The sky, previously calm, had transformed into a canvas of threatening electric clouds.


    A lightning bolt descended in a perfect vertical line, heading straight towards me. Without thinking twice, I raised my dagger in a fluid motion, blocking the enemy sword covered in lightning that threatened to split me in two. The blue branches of electricity spread across the ground, creating a terrifying and hypnotic spectacle.


    [Continued for length...]


    The new enemy was above me, swinging his sword with both hands. In a blink, he disappeared from my sight and positioned himself at my side, trying to cut my ribs. I didn''t have time to fully process the movement. My body reacted by pure instinct, backing away and blocking with my dagger the attack that came from left to right.This narrative has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. If you see it on Amazon, please report it.


    Large blue sparks jumped every time our weapons clashed. I felt adrenaline running through my veins, my broken breathing, my tense muscles.


    I raised my dagger above my head just in time to block a blow that threatened to split my skull. The impact was so intense it numbed my hands. I closed my left eye from the force of the blow, feeling every fiber of my being fight against the pain.


    Suddenly, a precise kick impacted my stomach. The air escaped from my lungs while my body was shot towards the trees. I rolled on the ground, my long silver hair falling over my face like a protective veil.


    When I looked up, my heart skipped a beat. Two new enemies had arrived. Four against one.


    I felt deceived, betrayed. The enemies had hidden strategically during the ambush. Enigma had let them escape, knowing that getting out of their hands was practically impossible. From the beginning, they had us surrounded.


    ¡ªDamn it! ¡ªI muttered between teeth.


    My body shuddered. Enigma wasn''t just any enemy. He was truly formidable, calculating, capable of orchestrating situations that seemed impossible to survive.


    ¡ªYou must be my welcome committee, ¡ªI said dryly, observing each figure. The level of power I felt from each of them made my blood freeze, they were clearly out of my league.


    The first was a tall man with broad shoulders. Loose strands of dark brown hair fell over his face. He wore a red chainmail under black half-plate armor that shone resplendently. This was the man who had fallen from the sky making quite a flashy entrance.


    His contemptuous gaze met mine. ¡ªWe''re here to capture you, not to participate in foolish jokes.


    ¡ªCome on, 025, we almost never have fun ¡ªsaid one of the others, while placing thick blonde braids around his head and looking at me with hungry eyes¡ª. We should have some fun with her before finally capturing her.


    Like 025, this second man also had blood-red eyes.


    Trapped in this desperate situation, I analyzed my possibilities quickly and quite precisely. The battle had reached the point of no salvation, let alone turning it in my favor. Moreover, time wasn''t on my side, I had severe wounds that threatened to consume me at any moment. They couldn''t see any escape route, so, I guess it''s time to show them what I''m made of.


    ¡ªEnough ¡ªordered 025, and the deep well of his baritone voice buried the other voices¡ª. We won''t waste more breath with you.


    Soon, the strands of my long silver hair began to float one by one, and...


    Flash!


    Blinding rays of light burst under my feet. An unimaginable amount of latent power awakened from its lethargy and the entire dome-shaped interior began to reverberate in resonance. The manifested energy was so great that the faces of all the hooded figures noticeably hardened.


    The bright, shifting light quickly changed to a rather attractive-looking armor made of pure light that enveloped the upper and lower part of my torso. A wing-shaped tiara settled on my forehead. Finally, a bright light shone from the top of my head, dyeing my hair in beautiful bright white tones.


    Without wasting more time, they tried with all their might to stop what I was doing. Multiple attacks from all directions rained towards me.


    The forest burst into chaos.


    Incredible fireballs, multiple wind blades, along with dozens of ice spears crossed the sky and cut the wind at dizzying speed. However, it was already too late.


    [Innate Ability: The Dragon''s Awakening (S)]

 The awakening of the dragon

    The dragon''s awakening was an innate ability that allowed me to strengthen almost anything by several levels in exchange for depleting the user''s vitality; the wear was directly proportional to the skill level I wanted to perform.


    I closed my eyes for a moment, concentrating. The ancient and powerful words of the dragon language began to flow in my mind, each syllable charged with primordial power. I felt my power amplifying, resonating with the very essence of the world. My eyes snapped open, all their attacks were blocked by an inverted triangular shield of water that shone intensely with a sapphire light.


    I didn''t even move from my spot. I only had to slightly raise my arm to deflect the attacks. I softly kicked the ground. With that simple movement, my field of vision changed in an amethyst flash, and I appeared right beside and behind 025.


    ¡ªAs you wish ¡ªI said, conjuring golden flames on my dagger and sweeping with my legs backward.


    I watched as blue lightning bolts shot up from the ground trying to deflect my dagger, and a burst of thunder seemed to envelop my opponent.


    I felt the satisfaction of my dagger hitting its mark, just before the lightning took my target away. A breath later, 025 reappeared on the other side, facing me, with torn armor and blood flowing from a wound in their side.


    This enemy was different from those I had faced before: fast and working as a team with an efficiency that surprised me. I couldn''t afford to hold back, not against them.


    Suddenly, I saw an energy beam heading towards me at full speed. Without thinking twice, I bent my knees and jumped, barely dodging it. My heart raced when I noticed that wasn''t all: a flying kick was already heading toward my face.


    In a fluid movement, I ducked and counterattacked with my dagger covered in golden flames. 026 jumped forward, barely dodging my attack. They''re coordinated, I thought while watching them land doing acrobatics with their hands and propelling themselves backward.


    While heading toward 026, my senses alerted me. Someone was behind me, and a cut was heading toward me at full speed. I had no choice but to turn around to block 045''s fire-charged sword, raising my dagger wrapped in golden flames above my head.


    With a movement that was as natural to me as breathing, I shook my arm as if swatting away an annoying fly, sending 045 flying.


    But my moment of triumph was short-lived. A thick mist spread through the forest, clouding my senses.


    The four opponents moved and cast spells. The green wind shields and crimson fire moved with them, turning the forest into hell.


    ?This isn''t good?, I told myself while trying to stay calm. And as if that wasn''t enough, I felt my body hardening through thick ice that began to freeze me into an icy pillar.If you spot this narrative on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.


    With no other alternative, I wrapped my body with a pillar of flames that melted the ice threatening to kill me. ?The mage class always being a problem?, I reflected with some annoyance. Getting frozen in the middle of a death match wasn''t pleasant at all.


    It was then when my senses alerted me again: ten sharp wind blades were falling from the sky. In a fraction of a second, I jumped backward dodging them. However, I had to stop my legs and lean my back backward when 045 passed in front of me with an angled cut that grazed my face.


    Out of nowhere, 026 suddenly appeared and, with a quick movement, hit my face with their right fist. I felt my body flying at great speed and crashing against the ground, breaking the earth in my wake. ?This is going to leave a mark,? I thought while trying to recover.


    I was barely getting up when I felt my body freezing again. Without wasting time, burning golden flames enveloped my body, thawing me instantly. But I had no time to think: 045''s sword, wrapped in crimson flames, fell on my side sending me flying to the left.


    Before I could land, I perceived 026 appearing behind my back. Their hand was wrapped with a long wind blade while propelling their body like a rocket, threatening to pierce my back.


    I turned my body at full speed while dodging their attack and counterattacking with my dagger covered in golden flames.


    I watched as 026 was shot out like a cannonball, destroying the ground while a cloud of dust contrasted with the thick fog. Their body flew breaking dozens of trees before finally stopping. I didn''t know if they were alive or dead, and at that moment, I had no time to find out.


    It was in that second of distraction when, from the corner of my eye, I saw something that froze my blood: 025 had their hand raised above their head along with their sword vertically covered in thunder, while above them a huge ten-meter lightning dragon took form.


    Fear invaded me upon seeing such a manifestation of power, and then I understood why 045 wasn''t visible anywhere. "Only a fool would stay to receive something like this," I thought while opening my mouth and inhaling a big gulp of air.


    I felt how my abdomen contracted while my chest expanded rapidly. Near my mouth, a golden sphere began to take form, growing larger and larger. I gathered and combined enormous amounts of golden fire along with small lightning bolts in my mouth, and then released it: an immense golden pillar that shone with dozens of lightning bolts shot out.


    [Golden Dragon''s Roar (A)]


    My highly compressed golden fire breath cut through the air with relentless force, causing a great destructive and sparking explosion around it. I felt how the air, earth, and forest itself violently trembled, shaking the entire battlefield.


    I watched how the terrifying explosion instantly swallowed the dragon that was only dozens of meters away. At the moment of contact, its enormous body disintegrated at an astonishing speed, devoured by the furious energy I had released.


    The destruction was such that the shock wave sent everyone present flying. I could see their expressions full of fear, disbelief, and terror while the tremendous laser shot out toward where the view ended. "Maybe I overdid it a bit," I thought while taking mental notes about precision and control.


    But I had no time to reflect more: 025 appeared behind me, threatening to cut my waist in two. A huge lightning bolt fell from the sky toward where I was when 025 stabbed with their sword.


    A cloud of dust and earth was unleashed when the huge lightning bolt, along with dozens of rays that extended like tree branches, illuminated the forest. When the dust cloud dissipated and the thunder still shone, I maintained an indifferent expression while holding with my fingers charged with golden fire the tip of 025''s sword, who had their left arm stretched and a hardened expression while their eyes trembled.


    A lightning bolt shone when we both separated at the same time and kicked the ground simultaneously.

 The awakening of the dragon (2)

    Twin torrents of crimson fire and slow bubbling mud sprayed me from different directions.


    The area became a dark blur as I moved almost instantly toward my next target, the mage with thick blonde braids who had given me so much trouble. I only had an instant to be surprised when his crimson eyes followed me, a shield quickly manifested and moved upward to block my attack.


    The sword crashed against his imposing shield, which was wrapped in a thick layer of sapphire-colored ice.


    A blast of pure energy shook the forest and we were both thrown by the force of our simultaneous strikes. I fell, landed on my feet, and only had an instant to contemplate the flames enveloping his shield before acidic tentacles wrapped around my legs. I cut through them and my energy shattered the spell.


    The cloud of crimson fire reached me and flooded me with a twilight haze of boiling fire that tried to force its way through my nose and mouth. I shot out an aimless nova of golden fire, which nullified the intense red flames.


    The ground stirred beneath my feet when a partially formed ice golem burst through the ground and stretched toward me. I slid one foot back across the destroyed ground while the pointed claws closed on nothing but dust, then struck with the sword once, twice, three times.


    The bursts of golden fire ran through the golem, which crumbled and burned.


    A greenish energy condensed beneath me and I stepped back just as the ground began to ooze thick, poisonous mud. An emerald cyclone forced me to dodge again while I deflected a three-pronged lightning bolt with the dagger and released a burst of golden fire to drive away the clouds of crimson fire.


    There were too many and they left me few openings between their combined spell attacks to go on the offensive. As I spun to stay away from the cyclone, I considered my own capabilities. I needed to maximize my mobility and balance the scales.


    More than a dozen elemental attacks rose as if they wanted to pierce the ceiling and began to explode, fall, cut, and strike fiercely in all directions.


    Strike! Strike! Strike! Strike!


    The ground shook violently and spat dust into the air. The attacks were now accompanied by the sounds of tearing air as they proceeded to indiscriminately attack all surroundings. My body was an afterimage moving at superhuman speed and my white hair spun beside it like multiple hula hoops. Golden streaks of light were left in my wake as I floated when finally, I broke through the bombardment of attacks.


    The mage was the hardest to defeat, this bastard controlled magic with amazing skill. His hands traced complex patterns in the air, and suddenly I found myself surrounded by multiple copies of himself. Illusions, of course. With a gesture of my hand, the golden fire around me transformed into a storm of flames. The mage''s copies vanished one by one upon contact with the golden fire, until only the original remained. His face, previously confident, now showed fear and terror.


    ¡ªImpressive¡ª he muttered, before being burned alive and reduced to nothing. One down, three to go.


    I had no time to celebrate, 045 was already upon me.


    His crimson sword moved at dizzying speed. I dodged and blocked, my body moving almost by instinct when my dagger penetrated him as if he were paper. I saw his eyes open in surprise before his body was turned to dust by the golden fire.A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation.


    I felt fear and horror at the ease with which I had ended several lives.


    ''Two down'', I panted slightly. The use of the Dragon''s Awakening was draining my energy, faster than I expected.


    Two remained, 025, the knight, and 026, the assassin.


    026 moved first, his speed enhanced by the wind. He was fast, incredibly fast. But I was no longer playing.


    [Wind Prison (A+)]


    The air around him solidified, trapping him mid-movement. I saw the panic in his eyes when he realized he couldn''t move. Without losing a second, his body was pierced by my sword before he could even scream.


    025, the last one standing and the strongest, looked at me with panic. His sword, wrapped in lightning, trembled slightly in his hand.


    ¡ªYou are... you''re a monster¡ª he muttered, his voice broken by fear.


    ¡ªNo¡ª I replied, feeling a pang of sadness ¡ªI''m just someone protecting their family.


    With a war cry, 026 launched himself at me, his sword leaving a trail of electricity in the air. He was brave, I had to admit it. But he was also desperate, and that made him predictable.


    When my dagger covered in golden fire pierced him, his charred body fell to the ground, motionless.


    Four, I finally counted, feeling how the adrenaline left my body. The pain from my wounds, temporarily forgotten in the heat of battle, returned with a vengeance.


    I dropped to my knees, panting heavily. I had won, against all odds. A sad smile formed on my lips.


    Knowing that I had ended human lives didn''t make me feel good, even if I had to do it to protect my family.


    ¡ªI did it, ¡ªI muttered, looking toward where Arceus lay unconscious¡ª. We''re safe.


    Cough! Cough!


    I stood up with a hoarse cough. My face was wet. Without realizing it, I wiped my mouth and opened my eyes wide. Fresh blood soaked my hand. My face had been covered in blood without my knowing.


    "Ugh...."


    An intense dizziness hit my head. To be frank... I wasn''t in good shape. I felt a tightness in my chest and my stellar energy was boiling. I also felt parts of my body loosening.


    ?Must be the price for activating the Dragon''s Awakening?, I muttered to myself before slowly catching my breath.


    The silver light surrounding my body went out and my body quickly returned to its original color.


    The Dragon''s Awakening wasn''t a convenient ability that could be used and maintained for as long as one wanted.


    I had activated it only to quickly kill my opponents and even so, it hadn''t been an easy battle.


    I knew I was undoubtedly stronger in raw power than all of them, but I lacked the level of skill and experience they had, which had made it difficult for me to get rid of them quickly.


    These were opponents of at least rank A, and 025 was at least a rank AA Ascendant, a coordinated team of such power had a threat level similar to a rank AAA- Ascendant.


    Suddenly, something fell from the sky and hit the ground.


    My eyes opened in surprise in an instant, upon recognizing that something.


    The man who lay on the ground while hugging an unconscious woman to his chest was none other than Atlas, my father.


    I brought my hands to my mouth as tears threatened to fall from my eyes.


    His face was soaked with blood flowing from his eyes, ears, nose, and mouth, and even the areas of his neck and chest were stained red. It was as if he had washed his face with blood.


    Mom, who was on his chest, seemed to be a little better.


    Before I could worry about my parents'' condition or how and why they ended up like this, I felt it.


    An overwhelming presence, so powerful that it made the air itself seem to tremble. Terror invaded my mind, paralyzing me on the spot.


    Someone was approaching.


    I turned and saw him...


    It was Enigma, the man was approaching slowly.


    His face was still covered behind a white mask that covered even his head, smooth and featureless, reflecting light in an unsettling way.


    ?No... it can''t be. Did they defeat Mom and Dad?? My face visibly paled and my body started to shake.


    I tried to stand up, but my body wouldn''t respond. Fear, cold and ruthless, had taken over every fiber of my being. I knew, with terrifying certainty, that this was the end.


    ?I''m sorry, Arceus?, tears beginning to fall clouding my vision.


    It seems I won''t be able to protect you after all.


    I didn''t have the slightest confidence in defeating Enigma.


    Suddenly, RUMBLE! An explosion of energy shook the now destroyed battlefield, making the earth itself tremble.


    A white pillar of energy rose toward the sky while a cloud of dust rose and spread through the now destroyed forest.


    When the dust cloud dissipated, the figure of a boy was revealed.


    It was... Arceus.


    He was standing while a terrifying power coursed through his body, a brilliant white aura roaring throughout his body.

 Broken chains

    ARCEUS PENDRAGON


    I was drowning.


    Deeper and deeper.


    Was I dead?


    Suddenly, my vision changed, as if my surroundings were stretching and transforming.


    As if everything around me was made of malleable clay. I could feel the immense amount and force moving around me.


    A sensation of nausea hit me like a truck, similar to using distortion portals, but multiplied by ten. I could feel the bile and stomach acids rising and clawing at my throat. I felt my body being propelled forward, despite not moving. No... it was more accurate to say that the space around me was moving instead of me.


    I could physically feel time and space moving around me. I could hear different voices, different things. All in different times. I saw things that only the greatest poets and writers could describe.


    Stars and entire worlds being born from cosmic clouds. I saw great marine leviathans that were only spoken of in long-lost legends and myths. Creatures so vast they seemed more like moving mountains than living beings.


    Time distorted, I witnessed the first signs of life, sprouting like flowers. Great kingdoms and empires rose and then fell. I saw it all, in that brief moment when I was between realms, I saw all the infinity of creation.


    Stars appeared in the distance, first a few, then hundreds, thousands, millions. Planets of every imaginable size and color orbited distant suns. Nebulae of cosmic gas and dust painted space with vibrant and ethereal colors.


    It was a spectacle of indescribable beauty, but what caught my attention most was the sensation that time had stopped. There was no movement, no change. Everything was suspended in an eternal moment.


    ¡ªIt''s beautiful, isn''t it?


    The voice, surprisingly familiar, made me turn. There, floating in space a few meters away, was... an unknown man. However, he had strange similarities to me. But he wasn''t exactly me. This man was older, his eyes shone with knowledge and power that I didn''t possess. His hair, white as snow, fell like a waterfall over his broad shoulders. His gaze was the coldest I had ever seen, and he wore a beautiful black armor that shone in the glow, I had no doubt that his mere presence would provoke terror even in the bravest of men.


    Perhaps it was the barely perceptible wrinkles around his eyes, or simply his own eyes that seemed to have a hypnotic effect when I looked at them directly.


    I approached, the feeling of unease only growing. I felt as if I were conversing with an entity that was beyond my comprehension, as if my weak mortal mind could barely perceive it.


    ¡ªArceus, there''s a good reason why I brought you here. ¡ªHe spoke, this time in a more serious tone.


    ¡ªAnd what might that be? ¡ªI asked, intrigued.Stolen from its rightful place, this narrative is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.


    The man smiled sadly. ¡ªI am you, and I come from the future, from a different timeline than yours.


    I tried to process this information. ¡ªAm I dead?


    ¡ªNot yet, ¡ªreplied my future self¡ª. You''re in the threshold, in that space between life and death where everything is possible and nothing is decided.


    ¡ªWhy are you here?


    The man floated closer, his expression hardening. ¡ªI''m here to change the course of history, to prevent a tragedy that destroyed my world and threatens to destroy yours.


    I felt a shiver run through my being. ¡ªWhat tragedy?


    ¡ªIn my timeline, at this moment, in this battle, Anastasia dies.


    The words hit me like a physical punch. ¡ªNo, it can''t be.


    ¡ªIt is, ¡ªhe continued, his voice laden with pain and regret¡ª. She dies and with her death, the world''s last hope vanishes.


    I felt my mind spinning, trying to comprehend the magnitude of what I was hearing. ¡ªWhat do you mean she is the world''s last hope?


    The man extended his hand, and the space around us changed. Images began to flow, scenes of a dark and desolate future. Cities in ruins, skies covered with toxic clouds, unknown creatures invading the world.


    ¡ªIt''s your future and...my past.


    ¡ªAre you really... my future self?


    ¡ªYes and no, you and I are different. We have walked different paths and when the time comes, you will understand. Unfortunately, I can''t tell you much, there are things that cannot be changed and must happen because destiny itself will ensure it, but you must know that, without Anastasia, the world''s balance breaks. Her power, her presence, is the only thing that will keep at bay the dimensional entities that will invade the world. Without her, the world will fall into chaos and destruction. So we don''t have much time. If we don''t change the future... everyone will die.


    The man said it clearly, but even though he told me suddenly, I didn''t know if I should believe him. Not to mention that he appeared just now, it was clearly suspicious.


    Was it really me? Those dazzling eyes, there was something somber in the depths of those pupils.


    To speak frankly, they were the eyes of someone who killed people as if it were mundane. Cold eyes that didn''t think about the life of a single person.


    So I''ll be like this in the future? I thought it was absurd.


    It was completely incredible, but the man''s expression was serious.


    The man raised his gaze and looked into the distance. For a moment, he seemed to look toward the middle of his life. ¡ªIt was a lonely life, a life with nothing¡ªHe began, his voice was an echo that traveled through the void¡ª. Looking at it again now... Maybe I just wanted to die, but I didn''t. I always survived like a disgusting cockroach, everyone is dead now, I have nothing left.


    The man raised his hands and grabbed his head and like a tsunami, his voice rose and thundered. ¡ªNow I am strong!! Stronger than anyone!! I could protect everything I had now lost!! But what''s it for?!! I have nothing left to protect!! Why?!! Why only now was I so strong?!! What was the point of all this strength?!! ¡ªHe paused, breathed deeply, forced himself to smile sadly again and like a broken glass, his voice cracked¡ª. That day... If I had had this strength. How much suffering... How much pain... How much regret... If only... I had a second chance. Day after day I repeated the same phrase: One more time... Just one more time...


    ¡ªThen... Give it to me!! ¡ªI ran toward him, grabbed him firmly by his clothes and roared.


    "..."


    ¡ªIf you don''t need it... then give it to me! I need strength right now! ¡ªHis bright eyes locked onto mine, his gaze pleading and hopeful, but conflicted.


    ¡ª...Yes. That''s why I''m here. ¡ªThe man pulled a multicolored sphere from his chest and with a movement I couldn''t see, embedded it in my solar plexus.


    ¡ª... Huh? ¡ªI looked up and could see in the man''s eyes an indescribable pain and desolation, ¡ªCan you feel it... That day... How much I resented... How much I hated... This strength?


    ¡ªAAAHHHHHHHH!!


    The shattering scream escaped my throat as overwhelming energy flooded every fiber of my being, when my body lit up with a blinding light, and I felt as if every cell of my being was being rewritten, improved, pushed beyond its limits.


    ¡ªAt this moment, past and future became one.


    With those words, while suffering agonizing pain in eternity, the last thing I could see was how my future self turned to dust and returned to me before my vision darkened completely.

 Broken chains (2)

    ANASTASIA PENDRAGON.


    Crack... crack... The ground beneath his feet began to crack, sending vibrations through the air.


    My heart was beating at an impossible rate, as if it wanted to escape from my chest. It was an overwhelming sensation, witnessing what I was seeing.


    Huaaa! A blinding glow completely enveloped Arceus, turning him into a being of pure light. Power overflowed from every pore of his skin.


    Arceus raised his head, observing the battlefield with a new perspective.


    In an instant, he unleashed a terrifying repulsive force when he stepped on the ground with his left foot.


    Boom! An electric current surged from the soles of his feet, running up his legs and spreading throughout his body.


    Lightning crackled around his skin while a powerful reaction stirred in his body, his muscles and veins twisted and expanded.


    Suddenly, Arceus vanished before my eyes like a mirage. My heart skipped a beat as I frantically moved my head from side to side, desperately searching for his figure in the chaotic scene unfolding before me.


    A strange sensation ran down my back, like a premonition, forcing me to direct my gaze to where Enigma was.


    Enigma had his body bent forward as if he had crouched while Arceus''s kick split the air as it passed where Enigma''s head had once been.


    I watched fascinated as Arceus executed a flip in the air, his body moving with almost supernatural grace as he descended with his left hand extended toward the ground. My admiration turned to fear when Enigma''s fist seemed to connect directly with Arceus''s face.


    But my anguish dissipated as quickly as it had come when I realized that Enigma had only hit an afterimage. My heart leaped with excitement seeing Arceus spin on his own axis, counterattacking with his right fist. The clash between both fists resonated like thunder, causing an explosion that shook the air and raised a dense cloud of dust that made me squint.This novel''s true home is a different platform. Support the author by finding it there.


    In a blink, Arceus had moved several meters back, and I could see how Enigma approached him with slow and calm steps that made my hair stand on end.


    ¡ªI''m going to see if this is your size¡ª I heard Enigma say with a curious tone.


    I saw him lift his legs one by one, as if he were warming up, and before I could process what was happening, his fist was already over Arceus''s head. I held my breath as I watched Arceus tilt his head to the left, barely dodging the blow that tore off two locks of his hair.


    ?He''s too fast! How can he move like that??


    The exchange that followed had me hypnotized: Enigma swung his left fist from side to side at dizzying speed, as if testing Arceus''s reflexes, while the latter moved his torso with millimetric precision to dodge each blow.


    I saw how Arceus leaned back when a fist passed grazing his head, but immediately after, Enigma''s right kick was heading toward him like a missile. My heart stopped for an instant and sweat ran down my hands, but Arceus jumped upward with superhuman agility, doing a flip in the air with his arms back. Enigma''s kick swept through the air with such force that it created a half-moon on the ground.


    ¡ªNot bad, kid¡ª Enigma''s words resonated in the air as Arceus landed and turned to face him.


    I barely had time to blink when Arceus appeared above Enigma, his fists turned into a blur as he struck toward his face at a speed my eyes could barely follow. Enigma defended each blow by moving his arms with the same supernatural speed, and behind him, the air itself seemed to split and tear with each impact.


    The most impressive thing was seeing how Enigma slowly retreated under Arceus''s rain of blows. Suddenly, both disappeared from my sight, and all I could distinguish were two lines that crisscrossed throughout the scene like lightning. The impacts resonated like explosions in every corner of the forest, and the earth cracked under the force of their confrontation.


    I managed to catch the exact moment when Arceus''s knee crashed into Enigma''s abdomen in the air, making his body arch backward. I saw Arceus raise his hands above his head and discharge a powerful blue pillar that impacted against Enigma, sending him backward with brutal force.


    Enigma landed on the ground, his legs tense as he tried to brake his backward movement. From the sky, Arceus descended like a meteor with his left arm raised, and in an instant, he was already over Enigma, launching his right arm toward his face.


    A huge cloud of dust rose with the impact, and when it began to dissipate, my heart skipped a beat seeing an intense crimson aura emanating from Enigma''s body, who had stopped Arceus''s blow with the extended palm of his left arm.


    ?No... this can''t be happening...?


    In less than a blink, Enigma grabbed Arceus by the face and slammed him against the ground with a force that seemed to shake the entire world. The impact was so devastating that the earth cracked like glass under my feet, forming a huge crater that expanded like a spider web. The dust rose in a dense cloud, momentarily hiding them from my view.

 Void without stars

    My heart stopped when I heard Arceus''s heart-wrenching scream. Through the cloud of dust, I could see his body contracting in pain, his face distorted in an expression of agony that chilled my blood to the bones.


    ?No! The ability he was using... has a time limit... and it ran out...?


    Understanding hit me like a punch to the stomach. After all that incredible display of power... had it not been enough? Despair began to take over me as I watched Enigma approach a now defenseless Arceus.


    I tried to scream, warn him, say something, anything, but all that came out of my throat was a pathetic wet gurgle. Helplessness consumed me as I watched the scene unfold before my eyes, unable to do anything to help.


    I laughed, but it was a disturbed laugh that escaped from my throat. Frustration consumed me from within as I felt tears building up in my eyes. How ironic! I was laughing at my own powerlessness, at only being able to watch as my family died before my eyes.


    I had tried so hard, so hard to never have to experience something like this... but in the end, I found myself completely paralyzed. I couldn''t do anything while watching Arceus dying in front of me.


    ''Punishment...'', I thought bitterly. Cornered in this pocket of despair, I couldn''t help but think that this was a form of divine punishment. Yes, it had to be that. It was the only way to justify something so horrible happening. This was the price we had to pay because my family decided to protect me instead of handing me over to Enigma as ordered.


    ''It''s my fault... It''s all my fault. Each of these things happened because I was too weak. If only I had been stronger...'', the thoughts tormented me endlessly.


    I wondered if I would find salvation at the end of this dark tunnel, but before this overwhelming power, this colossal force, I was forced to kneel, powerless and defeated.


    The truth hit me like a slap: I had failed. No matter how much I had fought, how much I had tried, the cruel reality remained unchangeable. My actions had been worthless.


    Tears began to flow freely down my cheeks. That horrible feeling of helplessness that I had so feared experiencing was taking over my body again. I let my head drop in silence, as my emotions transitioned from discouragement to sadness, from sadness to despair, and finally... to acceptance.You might be reading a stolen copy. Visit Royal Road for the authentic version.


    ''Instead of living like this...'', I thought, ''it''s better to die''. Why keep trying the impossible? Why try to break a rock with an egg? Instead of running away like a coward and being tormented by guilt for the rest of my life... yes, it was better to end it all.


    When my thoughts reached that dark point, I felt a strange calm in my chest. With trembling hand, I grabbed my frozen dagger. I raised it slowly, holding it in reverse and pointing it at my neck. A sad smile drew itself on my face. No one was forcing me to do this. It was my own choice.


    Just when I was about to gather the necessary strength in my hand...


    [More than anyone in the world you will shine, fly child, become a legend]


    Adelaide''s melodious voice resonated in my ears. My eyes, which I had kept half-closed, shot open.


    Clang!


    The dagger escaped from my hands and fell to the ground. I looked frantically around, but she was still unconscious in the same place. It had just been a memory, the melody my mother used to sing to me when I was little.


    [With burning passion you will rise again! Don''t let yourself be defeated by your memories!]


    Then I wondered: ''What... what can I really do?''


    To be honest with myself, I was terrified. And I understood something fundamental: what I was about to do wasn''t a real choice. It was a decision born from fear and desperation.


    Reflecting on my life, I realized it had always been like this. I had blindly trusted others, following their instructions almost out of habit before thinking for myself. Atlas had told me to run. Adelaide had ordered me to protect Arceus. But I... I didn''t want to do any of those things.


    Why had I always allowed others to decide for me? Who said they were always right? Just because someone else said it, did it mean I had to follow that path without questioning it?


    The revelation hit me like lightning: even a predetermined destiny could be changed with an insignificant choice. It was up to me to make my own decisions, act according to my convictions, and fight for my goals.


    The answer had been there all along. When this realization reached me, I was completely stunned. A deafening buzz began to resonate in my ears, blocking out all other sounds. I couldn''t hear squeals, or howls, or screams. An electrifying sensation ran through my entire body while a new emotion, which I had never experienced before, sprouted from the depths of my heart, making my frozen veins boil with renewed determination.


    I slowly stood up. ''I will protect them...'', I promised myself. ''Yes, I will take care of protecting them all. No matter what happens, regardless of the cost.''


    For the first time in my life, I wanted to do what my heart dictated. I knew that perhaps it was too late, that changing destiny wouldn''t be easy. I had no idea how far I could go, but for once, as long as I remained alive, I wanted to trust in my own decisions.


    ''Please, Dragon''s awakening'', I pleaded inside. ''Grant me a bit of your power, a power that allows me to protect everyone and that doesn''t let anyone die''.


    Even if I fell, even if I crumbled again, I refused to let others keep making decisions for me. At that moment, a light brighter than a thousand suns enveloped my body.

 Void without stars (2)

    ATLAS PENDRAGON.


    I slowly got up from the ground, carefully placing Adelaide''s unconscious body aside. The pain from my wounds was unbearable, piercing through every fiber of my body like red-hot needles.


    ?I''ve tried everything?, I thought bitterly. ?But that bastard Enigma''s power... is simply overwhelming.?


    Deep down, I knew Enigma could have killed me if he had wanted to. However, he had deliberately left me alive. As if he wanted me to witness all the destruction he was about to unleash.


    An icy shiver ran down my spine when his voice resonated from about a hundred meters away.


    ¡ªI''m tired of playing, this ends now ¡ªdeclared Enigma as he rose into the air.


    My eyes opened in horror as I saw him raise his hand and a gigantic magic circle materialized in the sky, extending for dozens of kilometers. The runes that composed it were so complex that not even I, with all my years of experience, could begin to understand them.


    Above our heads, a sphere of intense red began to take shape. It grew until it covered the entire firmament, even eclipsing the sun. Its outline glowed with threateningly crackling lightning.


    ?This can''t be happening?, my mind refused to accept what my eyes were seeing.


    Kuuuuuuuuuuuu!


    The crimson rays began to fall erratically, destroying the forest in their path. A sphere the size of a mountain was rushing towards us. It was as if the sun itself was descending to end everything.


    Despite the distance, I could feel how the air boiled and my skin grew hotter and hotter. That mass of energy was so immense that it threatened to devour the entire forest.


    In an instant, I conjured layers upon layers of powerful barriers. For a brief moment, they seemed to be effective. The sphere expanded and contracted repeatedly before breaking through them with a deafening roar.


    ?This is the end. We have failed. I have failed.?


    Just when despair threatened to consume me, a buzzing shook the earth and a magical barrier enveloped much of the forest, emerging from nowhere as a last line of defense against what could only be the wrath of a God.


    The sphere descended, colliding with the barrier with a force that shook the very foundations of the world. I watched as the barrier burned and began to melt upon contact with that incandescent mass, but miraculously managed to stop the descent of that artificial sun.


    Chiiiik, chiiiik!


    I frantically searched for the origin of that barrier, and my heart stopped when I looked down and saw my daughter dozens of meters away.


    Her body shone with an intense golden light while she kept her arms extended toward the sky. She was doing the impossible to contain that destructive sphere.A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation.


    I watched in horror as her clothes tore, blood flowed from her arms, and her legs trembled from the superhuman effort. But my little one didn''t take a single step back. For the sake of everyone behind her, her will remained unbreakable.


    I infused energy into my legs and prepared for any desperate attempt at attack while quickly approaching her.


    ¡ªDad, don''t try to stop me ¡ªmy little girl murmured, covering her battered body with more golden energy.


    ¡ªWould you stop even if I tried? ¡ªI asked while gritting my teeth so hard it hurt.


    We both knew it: it was too late. The moment Anastasia lowered her hands, the sphere would fall upon us in less than a second.


    I examined her body while my fists closed with such force that my knuckles turned white.


    ?It can''t be...?


    ?After everything that''s happened. She shouldn''t be able to move... Much less stand.


    ?No... Anastasia.?


    Tears began to run down my face like a flood that finally broke through the containment wall. My face turned pale and my entire body trembled as I lost my voice in a heart-wrenching cry of pain.


    I fell to my knees before the forest, crying bitterly.


    ¡ªDad...


    ¡ªDo you think I would thank you for dying to save me? ¡ªI asked with trembling lips.


    ¡ªDad, please. I beg you, take mom and Arceus with you. I implore you. ¡ªHer urgent voice pierced my heart.


    ¡ªAnastasia! No! You can''t do this to me!


    ¡ªDad, please... ¡ªmy little one begged, with her small trembling body¡ª. I don''t want you to die.


    Rage, anguish, helplessness, and pain invaded me upon hearing her words. My body shuddered when I heard her begin to sob.


    The sound of blood pounding in my head silenced everything else. I couldn''t even hear my own daughter''s desperate screams as she begged me not to stop her, to let her fight, to let her... die.


    I slowly stood up, having made a decision that tore my soul apart.


    ?Look at you, you''re not even conscious of what you''re doing and you''re still determined to show the world what you can do.?


    ¡ªForgive me, it''s all my fault... I should have protected you better ¡ªmy voice sounded unrecognizable, hoarse from an indescribable emptiness.


    ¡ªI''m sorry ¡ªshe whispered as blood filled her mouth.


    I teleported to where Arceus lay. My son was unconscious in a huge crater, his body severely injured. I took him in my arms as carefully as I could.


    Without losing another second, I teleported next to Adelaide''s unconscious body. I placed my wife on my shoulder, holding her with one arm while carrying my younger son with the other.


    Memories assaulted me mercilessly. I saw newborn Anastasia, a tiny thing sleeping in my left arm while I gently caressed her with my right. I remembered her on my back, grabbing my ears with that radiant smile that compensated for any pain.


    I relived her first time in the bathtub, when she fled from the water among laughter. I saw her crying in my arms while apologizing for breaking that vase so special to Adelaide. I saw her pouting when Arceus ate one of her favorite snacks. I saw her laughing with joy as we flew together over a human city.


    The image of our family photo appeared vividly in my mind: Adelaide smiling softly with little Arceus in her arms, while I placed my hands on Anastasia''s shoulders, who made a funny face with slanted eyes and her tongue sticking out.


    I returned to reality when the sky lit up with a blinding glow. For a moment, I thought all was lost.


    With no time to lose, I recited a spell at full speed. Enigma''s barrier that isolated the area had disappeared, allowing me to use my abilities freely. This was an advanced teleportation spell, different from the normal one, that would allow us to instantly transport hundreds of kilometers away randomly.


    Flash!


    The sphere glowed and exploded with an incandescent light.


    The last thing I saw was my daughter''s back when she turned her head and smiled brightly at me while a blinding light enveloped Adelaide, Arceus, and me.


    I felt how reality distorted around us. Time and space bent in impossible ways while lights danced before my eyes.


    We fell to the ground with a thud on a beautiful clear meadow. When I opened my eyes, a warm breeze ruffled my hair. The leaves of plants and trees danced in the wind.


    I stood up in pieces, looking toward the horizon where a great crimson glow rose in the distance.


    This great red light of destruction then turned the entire world white.


    ***


    End of volume 1 - Baby steps.

 Broken dreams

    ADELAIDE STARLIGHT


    The dim light from the crystal lamps bathed the healing chambers with a soft, ethereal glow. The scent of medicinal herbs and ancient magic permeated the air, mixing with the metallic smell of blood and sweat. In the center of the room, on a white marble bed carved with intricate designs of leaves and flowers, lay the small body of Arceus, motionless and pale as freshly fallen snow.


    This wasn''t the boy I remembered. He had lost so much weight, his skin stretched tightly over bones like twigs. The child''s eyes, open but unseeing, were sunken into deep black sockets. He looked like a leaf, as if a breath of wind could carry him to the grave. But beneath the fragile cage of broken ribs, his chest rose and fell with each weak breath.


    I was kneeling beside the bed, my trembling hands caressing my youngest son''s face. My blue eyes, normally bright and defiant, were now dim and reddened by the searing pain I felt at this moment. My long silver hair, usually immaculate and perfect, fell in messy strands over my shoulders, some stuck to my wet cheeks. I wanted to scream, wanted this to be a nightmare from which I would soon wake up.


    How did we get here? How could I let this happen? The thoughts spun in my mind like a relentless whirlwind. My little Arceus, so brave, so full of life... and now...


    I felt a strong, warm hand on my shoulder. Atlas was standing behind me, his normally comforting presence now seeming like a cruel mockery of the failure we both felt.


    ¡ªDarling... ¡ªhis voice, normally firm and confident, sounded uncertain and hesitant¡ª Can I see my wife''s beautiful face?


    I didn''t respond, my heart beating faster with each selfish thought, pumping anger and resentment through me until I just wanted to stand up and scream.


    I hadn''t spoken to Atlas since Anastasia died. I had seen him a couple of times, but this was the first time he was close enough to talk to, and suddenly I realized I was overflowing with things I wanted to tell him.


    ¡ªYou need to rest, you''ve been here for days.


    Nothing you say here will change anything, Adelaide, I told myself through gritted teeth. Shouting and cursing at Atlas won''t solve anything...


    I looked up at him, his long white hair falling loose and unkempt over his broad shoulders. The dark circles under his eyes revealed that he hadn''t slept in days either.


    ¡ªRest? ¡ªmy voice came out as a hoarse whisper, loaded with bitterness¡ª How can I rest when our son is... is...?


    I couldn''t finish the sentence. The words caught in my throat, forming a knot that threatened to choke me. Instead, I turned my attention back to Arceus, my fingers gently tracing the lines of his childish face, so serene in his forced sleep.


    The silence in the room was deafening.


    ¡ªDarling, the healers say his body is recovering. The Divine tree leaf is taking effect. He just needs time.Support the author by searching for the original publication of this novel.


    Time. That word echoed in my mind like a cruel mockery. Time was what we had lacked to save Anastasia. Time was what now slipped through my fingers while Arceus remained motionless.


    I slowly stood up, my numb legs protesting the sudden movement after hours of immobility. I turned to Atlas, my eyes meeting his once again.


    ¡ªTime? ¡ªI spat the word as if it were poison¡ª And what good did time do us when Anastasia needed us? Where were you, the great Atlas Pendragon, when our daughter...? ¡ªMy voice broke as I wiped an angry tear with the back of my hand.


    He shuddered but remained silent, infuriating me further. I saw pain cross his face, mixed with guilt that reflected my own.


    ¡ªI couldn''t, Adelaide. I''m sorry. I''m so sorry. ¡ªAtlas''s crimson eyes bore into mine, his gaze pleading and hopeful, yet conflicted.


    ¡ªYou were the only one conscious! ¡ªI shouted, my voice growing louder as I pressed on¡ª. The only one who could have saved her! How could you let her...?


    The words caught in my throat, replaced by a heart-wrenching sob that shook my entire body. I fell to my knees, my hands covering my face as tears flowed uncontrollably.


    I felt Atlas''s strong arms around me, his body trembling with his own contained sobs, softly kissing the top of my head over and over.


    Memories flooded my mind: the day Anastasia was born, her first smile, her first steps, the first time she used magic... The memories of her childhood pierced through my head like red-hot iron stakes.


    My shoulders shook as I sobbed, unable to speak. My hands were trembling and I was breathing in gasps. The pain was so intense I felt like I was drowning.


    It was unbearable... It was heartbreaking.


    I didn''t know my heart could hurt so much. I clutched my chest, unable to bear the self-destructive state of my emotions.


    Tears ran down my cheeks and blurred my vision. I couldn''t breathe as the torrent of emotions continued to surge within me.


    A rage that burned like a forest fire, a pain that flooded and drowned everything in its path, a corrosive guilt that made the earth itself tremble and a regret that destroyed and tore down years and years of hard work and development like a hurricane.


    I could feel these emotions, which seemed like natural disasters wreaking havoc inside my heart, tearing apart my sanity.


    With my heart shattered, far from the anger, pain, loss, and other emotions trying to make their way inside me, I began to sob softly.


    We sat like that for a while until my sobs turned into dry moans.


    ¡ªI''m sorry ¡ªhe whispered over and over, he clenched his jaw as he lowered his gaze, but when he spoke, he was frustratingly calm¡ª. I killed our daughter, I know. It was my fault! I''m so sorry, Adelaide. If I could change things, if I could...


    But he couldn''t. None of us could. Anastasia was gone, and Arceus was trapped in a sleep from which we didn''t know if he would wake up. Our family, once strong and united, was now shattered.


    How could I fail them? I''m their mother, I was supposed to protect them. What kind of princess, what kind of mother am I?


    ¡ªDon''t you hate me? ¡ªI could barely hear his whisper.


    Practically trembling with rage, hot tears once again running down my cheeks, I opened my mouth to say something, to curse him, to empty my anger on him, but the words died in my throat. I wanted to hate him so much, but I simply couldn''t.


    I couldn''t hate him, because I had loved him. I had loved him so much that I didn''t want to hate him. I didn''t want to be the one to destroy what was left of my family.


    ¡ªHow could I hate you? I love you but... I miss her so much, Atlas.


    Atlas clenched his jaw tightly, forcing himself to stay strong in front of me. ¡ªI know, darling. I miss her too.


    I was the one who had ordered Anastasia to protect Arceus. I kept trying to find people to blame, but those who were really at fault would soon be killed in a fight that was beyond my capabilities. Vengeance would soon be taken.


    Now, all that was left was this dark hole of emptiness and regret. The only thing keeping Atlas and me sane was our son. For this child, Arceus, I had to endure it. I wasn''t going to make the same mistake I had made with Anastasia. She was just a child, but I sent her to protect my younger son against fully trained Ascendants. I had no one to blame but myself.


    I didn''t remember much of the rest of the night. Maybe I didn''t want to remember how I was overwhelmed by the raw and unknown emotions that were tearing me apart.