《Transmigrated Into My Favourite Game Only To Die》


 Alice in Wonderland

    I look up to the night sky. It was an unfamiliar sight yet felt so familiar. I have seen this red bloody sky before. However, it seem to register quite late into my mind. Where on earth have I saw one like this? I kept on pondering.


    ¡°AH!¡±


    I covered my mouth with both of my hands, shaking my head while glancing left and right to my surrounding.


    I could not help but to let out a soft mumble beneath my palm, ¡°how could this happen?¡±


    The dark crimson dyed the sky as the moon shined brighter than the fresh pool of blood. Dark grayish cloud drifted through the sky as if a mad thunder was about to lay bare it¡¯s roar.


    It was just a speculation on my part. Wishing it was not the truth. Even though deep inside my heart, I was elated with the thought I would be able to see my beloved.


    Looking at my surrounding, I seem to have woken up in the middle of a dark alley, with nothing but dumpsters full of foul stench.


    A little rat standing on it¡¯s two little feet staring into my eyes. My heart felt unsettled when the two small and round onyx looking at me as if it was waiting to devour it¡¯s prey.


    With a shriek, it leaped onto my feet.


    I¡¯ll say this. My heart was really about to jump off my mouth. There was no time to scream. ¡°Get! Off!¡± I gritted my teeth as I flailed my feet, hoping the rat would be nice to excuse itself, while my hands searching for anything I could use.


    I would say my luck was in the better when I grabbed a rusty yet heavy crow bar few inches from my side. With one quick swoop, the rat squeal as it¡¯s back hit the wall.


    Tears welled up in my eyes when I realized not a scratch on it¡¯s body. So, it seem it was not enough for it to die. My grip tighten as I lifted my butt from the ground. There were only a few marks on my hands, and few torn on my dress, without further detriment on my body. I sighed.


    I have read of such kind of books, where the main protagonist discovered themselves being in another universe, or in a parallel world. Usually, wouldn¡¯t they became the main character and have the whole universe on their side? How come I found myself stranded in a dirty alley with nothing but a piece of clothes on myself.


    I came back to my sense as the screeching melody from the rat pierced into my eardrums.


    ¡°I bet you received tons of dislike for your singing,¡± I said as I swung the crow bar.


    No matter how I tried to end it¡¯s life, it would dodged and be on defense, prolonging it¡¯s own lifespan, or maybe, mine. I can see it was smarter than me, because it make me dance like a fool in the middle of the night.


    ¡®BANG! BANG! BANG!¡¯


    The rat fell on the ground. How easy. With three shots, it laid there, lifeless. With my hand still clutching on the crow bar, I turned around to see a woman in her late twenty winked her eye toward me.


    ¡°Pretty brave, young lady. To use a crow bar against a mutated rat,¡± she said, sneering as she took a glimpsed at my appearance.


    She added, ¡°I know Wanderers had been the hot, but that doesn¡¯t mean mutated animals were tamed either.¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t know that yet¡­¡± my soft spoken whisper attracted her attention.


    ¡°Hmm?¡±


    ¡°Nothing!¡± I waved my hands, said, ¡°um, miss, do you, by any chance, knew a lodging I could stay for today?¡±


    ¡°I knew you were not a resident here, but to think you knew nothing about N109 Zone¡­ you must be a pretty reckless young lady,¡± she commented as she size me up.


    ¡°I¡­ just, forgot to look up for some lodging before I arrived.¡±


    ¡°Where did a spoiled young lady such as yourself came from? You did not knew about the mutated animal, nor any lodging in the city. You seem to have no idea about N109 Zone, yet here you are. Could it be¡­¡± her face inched closer to mine, ¡°¡­were you a product?¡±


    ¡°Excuse me?¡±


    From the game, I knew for sure there were lots of illegal business going on in this place. However, to be misunderstood as a product would be the last thing I would ever wanted. I read enough novels and comics to understand what happen to a ¡®product¡¯, albeit it was fictional fact.


    ¡°You were not? Then, how did you end up here?¡± she asked, lifting her eyebrow in confusion.


    If there was anything I was good at, it would be bluffing my way out of trouble. That¡¯s right. In other word, I¡¯m a good liar.


    ¡°I was supposed to come here with my friends. They were the one who handle everything, from our tickets, lodging, even transport. But¡­ we got separated somehow, and before I knew it, I was already here.¡±


    ¡°Young lady¡­ That friends of yours. You better cut all ties with them. N109 Zone was no place for vacation.¡±


    ¡°I¡­ didn¡¯t knew we were coming to N109 Zone.¡±


    She scoffed. ¡°You bet. If you knew, you wouldn¡¯t even dare to come,¡± after few second pausing and staring at her shoes, she continued, ¡°follow me.¡±


    ¡°Yes?¡±


    ¡°I thought you want a place to sleep for the night?¡±


    Sure enough, there were still good people even in a place full of wickedness. I trotted my way toward her, closing the gap of our distance. As I took a little peek on the woman, I could see a scar on her eyebrows.


    Unlike some women who prefer either short hair or tying their hair during their battle mode, the woman in front of me let her long wavy brown hair loose. Her hair would fluttered with the current of the wind.


    Now that I think about it, I have not yet gotten her name. But, she doesn¡¯t asked mine either, thus, I could only stay silent.


    ¡°I¡¯m Mira. What¡¯s yours?¡±


    I was quite baffled, to be honest. Could she read my mind, perhaps? ¡°Alissa,¡± I replied regardless.


    ¡°Alissa¡­¡± she mumbled my name few times, and suddenly snapped her fingers, ¡°then I¡¯ll called you Alice!¡±


    ¡°Alice? Why?¡±


    ¡°Because¡­ you reminded me of that one old fairy tale about a girl that had bizarre journey in a fantasy land, or rather adventurous I would say.¡±


    ¡°You mean Alice in Wonderland?¡±


    ¡°Yes, yes! That one. Also, your name¡­ Don¡¯t you think if you shorten just the first four word of your name, you will get Alis, which similar sound with Alice.¡±Unauthorized usage: this narrative is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings.


    ¡°I could see that¡­¡±


    ¡°Well¡­ Who knows. Perhaps, when you woke up from your sleep, it will all turned out to be a dream.¡±


    ¡°What will?¡±


    ¡°Coming here.¡±


    ¡°If this was all a dream, I would not feel pain, wouldn¡¯t I?¡±


    ¡°That was just an idea to comfort you.¡±


    ¡°Me?¡±


    ¡°Your face. You looked exactly similar to that one bunny I almost hunt for dinner. Fear. Anxious,¡± she shrugged her shoulders.


    ¡°Anyone would be. When facing situation unfamiliar to them.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s just say that is true. We¡¯re here.¡±


    After some excruciating walk, we finally arrived in front of an old apartment building. To say them old was quite an understatement. The dark red paint had lost it luster, yet there was not a mold, but a bit of water stain, perhaps, remnants of rain water.


    We ascended the stairs to the third floor and was greeted by a dark brown painted door on our left. She took out the key from her pocket and twisted the knob, before we entered.


    I watch every of her step carefully. Perhaps, deep down in my heart, I could not help but to stay cautious. This is N109 Zone, after all.


    ¡°Come in,¡± she beckoned, as she step aside, leaving a space for me to go through into her house.


    ¡°Pardon my intrusion,¡± I said as I step in, leaving my shoes at the doorway.


    ¡°Just sit¡­ anywhere you like.¡±


    I sat on the red leather couch, staring into the abyss, not knowing what to do. My awkwardness earned me a chuckle from Mira.


    ¡°Coffee? Tea?¡±


    ¡°Just water is fine,¡± I answered.


    ¡°Make yourself at home,¡± she said with a smirk on her face.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t expect you would bring me to your house.¡±


    ¡°Can¡¯t just leave an abandon young lady in the middle of tiger¡¯s den. You wouldn¡¯t want to be eaten, right?¡±


    ¡°Thank you.¡±


    ¡°Mira!¡±


    The door flung open and a man in a black sweater stormed in. I turned around and met with his eyes. Something about him make me want to hide in a corner of the room.


    ¡°How many time have I told you, don¡¯t just barged into my house whenever you like!¡± Mira punched him in the stomach with her fist.


    The man whimpered on the ground holding his stomach. ¡°But¡­¡±


    ¡°There is no but!¡±


    ¡°Sorry, Mira. I had told him to knock on the door first. He just wouldn¡¯t listen.¡±


    Another man came in. He wore a black hoodie, almost similar design with the other man. Perhaps, it was their preference to look almost the same. I mean, their face were identical already. Albeit one of them were scarred, they still held similarities.


    ¡°Ran, would you just¡­ grabbed Lu and get out of my house?¡± Mira crossed her arms before her chest. She looked annoyed. I bet this was not the first time they done this.


    The man called Ran scratched his head. ¡°We already here either way¡­¡± he glanced at my direction when he noticed my staring, ¡°¡­anyway, why not introduced us? Who¡¯s this? Never seen her before.¡±


    Mira sighed. ¡°Right¡­ It¡¯s better if you knew them. Alice, meet Kieran, and the one on the ground, Luke. As you can see, they were twin. Identical on top of that.¡±


    Luke rose from the ground, ¡°hi, I¡¯m Luke!¡± he said cheerfully as if he had never whimpered like a child earlier.


    ¡°I¡¯m Kieran.¡±


    ¡°Alissa,¡± I said with a small nod, ¡°I don¡¯t mind if you called me Alice like Mira did.¡±


    Luke lunged forward, leaving only few centimeter between his face and mine. ¡°You know¡­ Your left eye truly, exquisitely beautiful. When I see it closer, there was a hint of purple in those blue, you know. It¡¯s weird how the other side seem a bit mismatched. Like a fake blue.¡±


    I took a step back, away from Luke. He hit where it¡¯s hurt. When I was about to open my mouth, Mira slapped Luke from the back of his head.


    ¡°What did you even came here for, you blockhead!¡±


    ¡°Ouch! Why would you hit my head? What if I became a fool? I won¡¯t be able to provide for you anymore if that happen!¡±


    ¡°Still have a gut to joke around?¡± Mira kicked him at his shin.


    ¡°Why would you resorted to violence every time you open your pretty little lips?¡±


    Mira ignored Luke and looked at me, ¡°sorry. This two were an acquaintances of mine. They had always been like this. Luke doesn¡¯t mean to¡ª¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s okay!¡± I cut her off, before she could even apologized. It was not her fault.


    ¡°Please let me apologized on behalf of my brother,¡± Kieran step forward, ¡°with this.¡± He shook lightly the plastic bag he was holding, bringing the attention to the plastic bag.


    The moment he spoke up, the air was filled with a smell so seductive and enthralling. Enough to forget what just happen.


    ¡°Whole fried chicken, and beef stew, for five people! How¡¯s that sound?¡±


    Mira and I gave a thumbs up. We looked at each other and burst out laughing. The night passed with my first meeting with Mira who saved my pitiful self, and chaotic Luke and Kieran, who will soon become my friends.


    ***


    I sprawled on the soft bed, staring into the ceiling. Today was already hectic for me, then suddenly I found myself in the middle of nowhere. I wonder what actually happen.


    If I am not mistaken, I just finished bathing, and was about to check on the document my colleague sent me. I thought of playing games for few minutes before doing my work.


    I opened the app, and suddenly fell asleep¡­ When I opened my eyes, the red scenery awaits me. That¡¯s all I could dug from my memories. I don¡¯t remembered meeting with white truck. So, am I dead, or am I alive?


    ¡°I haven¡¯t finish my work yet¡­ The coming exhibition¡­ My job¡­¡±


    Perhaps all the fatigue finally catch up to me as my vision slowly turned dark. My heavy upper eyelids could not bear it weight and met with my lower eyelids.


    The sun was already wide awake when I opened my eyes. The thing about my sleeping position is that I never move around during my time floating around in my dream. I found myself still sprawling on the bed.


    I groaned as I lifted half of my body, with my right arm as support. I glance at my torn dress and dirty mud sticking on the hem of my dress. Then, I turned to see the bedsheet still completely clean, though crumpled.


    ¡°Thank goodness,¡± I sighed in relief as I patted my chest, ¡°¡­I wonder if there is anything I could do to earn myself a new piece of clothing?¡±


    Like an answer to my mumbling, Mira knocked on the door three time. She entered while holding some clothes on her hand.


    ¡°Thought you might need a new one,¡± she said, as she laid the white shirt and brown pant next to me.


    ¡°Thank you. I was just thinking to myself how to get myself out of this messy dress.¡±


    ¡°Change up. I got us some breakfast,¡± she briefly said before she strode off into the living room, leaving me all alone in the bedroom.


    ¡°Smells great,¡± I announced as I got out from the room, fresh from the oven.


    Her eyes wavered as she spot me standing beside the table. I could sense a hesitation and longing from her eyes. Maybe there was also a glimpse of guilt.


    ¡°Anything¡¯s wrong?¡± I waved my hand in front of her face.


    ¡°N¡ªnothing.¡±


    There is never nothing when you stuttered, but I let it go, thinking it was not my place to keep peering into her private life.


    ¡°Hey, thanks for the clothes. It fit me well, surprisingly,¡± I commented, considering our body type that were totally different from each other. Not to mention, she was way taller than I am.


    ¡°It was my late sisters¡¯. Glad it found new owner rather than rot in my wardrobe¡­ Sit¡±


    I took the seat at the opposite of her, facing her face while we ate. I felt it was not yet the right time to ask about her sister, seeing the solemn look on her face.


    ¡°What is you plan now?¡± her voice brought me out of my daze. I look up at her.


    ¡°My plan?¡±


    ¡°Yes. I believe you would not be freeloading at my place forever, right?¡±


    ¡°That¡ª No, I won¡¯t! I¡ªI just¡­ not sure where to start.¡±


    ¡°You had nothing on you right now, right?¡±


    I nod in silence.


    ¡°For now, give me your basic information. While I will try to search for those friends of yours, it¡¯s better to have an identity document on yourself, so you won¡¯t be dragged into any auction hall.¡±


    As I gave my thanks, Luke stormed in without a knock, again. Mira punched him first before asking the result of her request.


    ¡°About that,¡± Kieran intercepted, ¡°we have a job. Housekeeping. This much monthly.¡± He gestured his ten fingers.


    ¡°10 000?¡± I said, a little hesitant.


    He shook his head, and a grin formed on his playful expression, ¡°our boss might be cruel but he was not stingy.¡±


    ¡°100 000? Per month?¡± my pitch went a bit high, surprised, my eyes wide opened, almost could not believed what I heard. ¡°Was there anything sketchy about the job? Or maybe the place itself?¡±


    ¡°Nothing¡¯s weird. You just have to clean around the house. That¡¯s all.¡±


    ¡°That. Is. All?¡±


    He raised both of his hand. ¡°That is all. Nothing sketchy, I promise.¡±


    ¡°Nothing sketchier than Kieran being all kind, you know,¡± Luke chirped in, snickering as he glanced at both Kieran and me.


    Kieran sighed. He shrugged his shoulders. ¡°Up to you. Wanna do it or not? We don¡¯t have all day to laze around waiting for your answer, you know.¡±


    Doing something is better than nothing. ¡°Alright, I accept. When should I start?¡±


    ¡°Great. let¡¯s go now! Idle more than this, we might actually get killed by Boss!¡± Kieran grabbed a piece of fruit from the table before pulling Luke¡¯s shirt.


    ¡°Can you drive?¡± Kieran turned to look at me, jingling a set of keys in front of my face.


    ¡°Cars only, if that count.¡±


    ¡°Then, get on my back,¡± he beckoned the empty seat on his back as he wore the black and purple helmet.


    ¡°What about Luke?¡±


    Kieran motioned his head, pointing to the person behind me. Luke noticed my gaze on him and crossed his arms.


    ¡°No! No! The seat behind me is exclusive only to Mira,¡± he quipped.


    ¡°Not even interested¡­¡± I said in a jest and walked my way to Kieran. ¡°Don¡¯t you feel suffocated wearing those mask under the helmet?¡± I added in the passing by as I wore the helmet that was given to me.


    ¡°Not at all. Don¡¯t we look more mysterious like this?¡±


    Their reasoning was childish that I let out a scoff. ¡°Yeah, sure¡­¡±


    I swore to myself that I will learn to ride a bike by myself after this. Not again. Not even once, would I wanted to ride with him again. Where was the motion sickness pill when I need it?


    ¡°Guess Boss isn¡¯t here yet¡­¡± Luke stated while fixing his mask.


    ¡°This¡­ Which building?¡±


    ¡°What do you mean? Of course all of this.¡±


    ¡°All of this building?¡±


    ¡°Well¡­ Yeah¡­ Oh! This is also the Onychinus base. That the most important thing you need to remember. Don¡¯t forget!¡±

 Sylus

    ¡°What?!¡± I shouted, shifting my head toward Kieran.


    I thought it would only be one of the house he owned. Never would I have imagined the place I will be working in was the base of Onychinus. Few buildings, on top of that.


    ¡°What what?¡±


    ¡°Nothing¡­ I¡¯m just surprised that I will be working at none other than the infamous Onychinus¡¯s base.¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t we mentioned it before?¡±


    ¡°You didn¡¯t specifically said the place.¡±


    ¡°Guess you¡¯re not that smart.¡±


    Now, that was rude. How am I supposed to guess that they will brought me to their base? Wasn¡¯t the base for an organization usually stay a secret from outsiders. Especially dark organization. Actually, were they even considered as dark organization?


    I am not sure. I was just warming up to the game before I came here. I had only installed the application for like, a week, not to mention, I don¡¯t have the full day to play it. I got to go to work too!


    ¡°How many people in here?¡±


    ¡°Not that many. Ah! But there is only one housekeeper.¡±


    ¡°Only one? That person must have been suffering in this place.¡±


    ¡°She will be¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°That person was you!¡±


    The only place I have ever cleaned up was my house, and my parent¡¯s house which is only a bit bigger than mine. However, this scale¡­ This is too much for my two frail arms and two fragile legs.


    ¡°This is impossible! How am I supposed to do everything by myself?!¡±


    I spoke only the truth. Try to think about it. As a normal average people living in a city, in a small yet comfortable apartment, cleaning up after a big mansion such as the one in front of me right now and few of them, alone on top of that, was close to ridiculous.


    It might not be impossible to achieve, however, it will took an unbelievable amount of time and dedication. I guess I won¡¯t have the time to ponder about my fate in this strange and peculiar land.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry! We bet you could do it! Nothing is impossible!¡±


    ¡°Sure¡­ For you! I demand a raise! This is too much!¡±


    ¡°Talk to Boss then.¡±


    ¡°Ugh!¡± I clutched on my chest. It¡¯s hurt where it doesn¡¯t hurt.


    ¡°Oh, right! Almost forgot,¡± he took out something from his bag and handed it to me, ¡°here.¡±


    ¡°This is¡ª¡±


    ¡°Good luck then!¡±


    Both of them walk away from the place we were standing. In a haste, I grabbed the hem of Kieran¡¯s shirt.


    ¡°Wait!¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°Wasn¡¯t you supposed to show me around first? How am I to know my way here?¡±


    ¡°You can explore on your own. Just don¡¯t forget to wear your uniform so you don¡¯t get mistaken as intruder and accidentally meet your end!¡±


    With that being said, they vanished from my sight in a blink of an eyes. I was frozen for a while, collecting my thought. They really just ditch me in a middle of nowhere alone by myself.


    I look down on the set of maid uniform neatly folded on my hands. Sighing, I was just glad it doesn¡¯t get any more cringe with this maid uniform. At least this one was the long skirt with long sleeves type. Quite modest. How unexpected.


    There is no way that I will find my way at any moment, so I decided to use one of the empty room to change my outfit first. What I never anticipated was the cliche where someone suddenly came inside while I was in the middle of changing.


    ¡°KYAA!!!¡± I screamed my lungs out.


    ¡°Keep quiet,¡± the low deep voice sternly spoke, in rather calm manner.


    I quicken my pace and put on the apron. From behind, I could hear him sighed. I turned around and saw, a devil. A charming, and good looking devil staring into my eyes.


    His bright red eyes that glow reminded me of the moon I saw yesterday night. He furrowed his eyebrows. Even when his forehead form a deep wrinkle, he was still alluring.


    ¡°You. What are you?¡± he said as he walked closer, closing the distance between us.


    ¡°Someone who dream of becoming you wife?¡± I gave an answer to his question with another question.


    The grunt that came out from his throat make my heart almost stop beating. He smirked. ¡°Is this another ploy to find my weakness?¡±


    ¡°Yes?¡±


    ¡°Who was it?¡±


    ¡°Who?¡±


    ¡°Who sent you?¡±


    ¡°Um¡­ God?¡±


    ¡°I see you were a fan of wordplay,¡± his voice sounded impatient.


    ¡°That is quite an untrue statement. I take myself as someone who spoke straightforward instead. And, I¡¯m the new housekeeper that was hired.¡±


    ¡°The cleaner, I see¡­¡±


    ¡°Yes. Whatever you would like to call me.¡±


    ¡°Then, why are you here?¡±


    ¡°Luke and Kieran left me at the entrance. I don¡¯t know my way here, so I thought about changing my outfit first so I won¡¯t be mistaken as intruder and be killed accidentally.¡±


    ¡°Had they not told you not to enter this particular room?¡±


    ¡°No. They told me nothing¡±


    He glanced at me up and down. I would had never imagine that he would even bothered to ask me questions and not kill me instead. I thought his words were a privilege for the main character only.


    My frail little heart knew no fear. The corner of my eyes took a little peek on his cold looking face.


    ¡°Is there something on my face?¡±


    ¡°YES!¡±


    ¡°Ho?¡±


    ¡°There are too much handsomeness on it. It¡¯s dazzling! Yet enchanting!¡± I spoke my mind. I don¡¯t know when else would I see this beautifully sculptured face, so I need to let all my feelings out.


    His lips curled up. His short little snicker make my heart pound loudly. If only I could carved those stunning face and expression of his in my mind.The author''s tale has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.


    ¡°I have not seen anyone brave enough to speak boldly to my face.¡±


    Well, of course. They were too afraid to do so. I had the courage as someone not from this world. And because I have seen how sweet and lovely you were toward the one you loved. Even though I knew it was not for me, I still dare to profess my feelings.


    ¡°That¡¯s because their feeling were not as strong as mine.¡±


    ¡°Is that why you sneak into this room?¡±


    ¡°No! No! This is definitely a coincidence! You have my words. I would never exert such stalkerish behavior toward the one I love.¡±


    ¡°Love?¡± he sneered, ¡°do you know who am I?¡±


    ¡°Of course! You¡¯re Sylus. The most good looking devil in Love and ¡­¡±


    ¡°Hmm?¡±


    ¡°I mean, the leader of Onychinus.¡±


    ¡°Yet you still dare to utter the word love.¡±


    ¡°Why shouldn¡¯t I? If you love someone, you have to tell that person even if it meant getting rejected. Only then you will find a closure and a peace of mind.¡±


    ¡°Admirable philosophy. However, is there no possibility of getting killed?¡±


    ¡°Why would you?¡±


    ¡°Why wouldn¡¯t I?¡± he said with his low hoarse voice as he walk closer and placed his hand over my neck.


    ¡°Because I have done nothing that hinder your job and I am a weakling that was no fun to killed.¡±


    ¡°A weakling? You?¡±


    ¡°Am I not? I know myself, you see. I¡¯m not really the type that overestimate myself, or have some silly thought like I can do anything if I put my mind into it. I have to say that I am quite the realistic person. Sure, I might sound like a coward, but I simply don¡¯t like to take risk that are not worth it.¡±


    ¡°You talk a lot.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not really a talkative person. But if me being talkative would make you talk to me, then I will put more effort into talking.¡±


    ¡°How courageous.¡±


    ¡°Thank you! That only applied when I¡¯m chasing my love,¡± I gazed right into his red eyes, to see once again that pretty ruby embedded in his eyes.


    ¡°I can see that no one told you not to look into my eyes.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t understand why shouldn¡¯t I look into your eyes when it was so enchanting. Mine could not compare.¡±


    He hummed and inched closer to my face, staring into my eyes. I can hear the throbbing in my heart, and I wonder if he can hear it too.


    ¡°The right one. Is there anything wrong with it?¡±


    I realized he was talking about my right eye. I have never like the topic regarding my eyes, but if it¡¯s him, perhaps, it would be fine.


    ¡°Well¡­ It¡¯s not as beautiful as yours, but¡­¡± I took a step back and turned around, fiddling with my right eye, and look at him once again, ¡°I felt uncomfortable when people stared into my eyes, so I would wear contact lens that matched the color of my left eye.¡±


    ¡°Heterochromia?¡±


    I nodded, even though feeling a little flustered. ¡°It doesn¡¯t look really good. Some people would felt uncomfortable if I don¡¯t wear my contact lens.¡±


    ¡°And why should you listen to them?¡±


    ¡°Yes?¡±


    ¡°Is there any need to care about how people view yourself?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not that I care, but¡­ when we went out to socialize, it¡¯s a given to tolerate each other. There is always something we need to sacrifice to keep the balance in society.¡±


    I noticed his gaze on me, and I could only scratched my cheek, feeling awkward. I knew he wouldn¡¯t understand because he had people adjusting themselves to his preference, not the other way round.


    ¡°Boss.¡±


    It make me wonder what was this fate that I had with the twins. They would appeared suddenly when I was with someone.


    ¡°Why were you here?¡± Luke and Kieran looked at me with confusion. I somehow could tell from that mask they were wearing.


    ¡°Exploring.¡±


    ***


    As I daze into the dark gloomy sky up above, I was ascertained by the obscure truth once again. I truly am in a faraway land far from my home, or perhaps, far from my reality.


    It had been a whole week since I was here. The memory of meeting Sylus was as clear as the blue sky in my mind, not that there were any blue sky could be seen in N109 Zone, though.


    I was quite angry with Luke and Kieran because they third wheeling my precious conversation with Sylus. From what I knew, he doesn¡¯t really talk much in the game. Of course, the main character were the exception. That was one in a billions of opportunity. I haven¡¯t seen him since that day.


    I spent my day learning about N109 Zone, deepening my bond with Mira, getting used to Luke and Kieran behavior, and more importantly, the period of time I am currently in. I discovered that I came to a time before the beginning of the game. It was before the main character started her journey as hunter and her fateful meeting with her love interest, including Sylus.


    ¡°Those really did just cleaned the outward before huh¡­¡± I mumbled to myself as my hand stroke on the back of the wooden cabinet. My fingers were covered in a thick layer of dirty and sandy dust.


    ¡°Caw!¡±


    My hand froze. I slowly turned around. The beautiful jet black crow had it¡¯s eyes on me. ¡°You¡­¡± I rose from where I was kneeling and took a big stride toward where the crow was resting.


    ¡°You little cutie pie! No! Cutie birdie! How can such an adorable and lovely creature as you exist¡­¡±


    ¡°Ca¡­w?¡±


    The confused black crow tilted it¡¯s head. The reaction it gave make me giggled. I have always like black animal, you see. One of them were crow. That was one of the reason why Sylus gained a place in my heart.


    ¡°You must be Mephisto. My name is Alissa. It was nice to finally meet you.¡±


    I extended my hand toward the black crow. It was weird to see that it was not the mechanical crow as shown in the game but Mephisto is Mephisto. The crow spread it right wing and laid it on the palm of my hand.


    ¡°Did you came here to observe my work?¡±


    ¡°Caw!¡±


    ¡°Oh, really? Was it a coincidence?¡±


    ¡°Caw! Caw!¡±


    ¡°I see. Then, will you go on your way right now?¡±


    ¡°CAW! CAW! CAW!¡±


    ¡°No! No! I wasn¡¯t trying to shoo you. I actually thought it would be nice if you could accompany me. I feel a little bit lonely working by myself in this vast mansion. And¡­ there is still four similar building that I have to clean. This is so stressing and tiring, you know.¡±


    ¡°Caw¡­¡±


    ¡°Well¡­ I can¡¯t just sit and do nothing, right? I have to work so that I can earn myself some living.¡±


    ¡°Caw? Caw. Caw. Caw.¡±


    I laughed. ¡°You can¡¯t compare me to Sylus. He is a big boss, and I¡¯m just your typical average human who must work their bone to live.¡±


    ¡°Caw.¡±


    ¡°Right¡­ You should be glad you were born as crow instead of human.¡±


    Before any of you said I¡¯m crazy, let me tell you something. It¡¯s reaction gave way what¡¯s on its mind. You know the saying, ¡®wear your heart on your sleeves.¡¯


    ¡°Caw! Caw¡­¡±


    ¡°Oh, really? You can¡¯t accompany me anymore? It¡¯s okay. Your mission is much more important! I will pray for your safety from afar, okay?¡±


    ¡°Caw! Caw!¡±


    ¡°Bye, bye! Stay safe!¡±


    Although it was only for a little while, my heart was filled with motivation to work. Right! I might not be able to see Sylus as much as I thought, but, who knows what lies ahead, right?


    I continued my job as usual, while grumbling and coughing now and then. After I clocked out, I rode the bike back to Mira¡¯s home where I¡¯m currently room renting. Additional information, I could ride a bike by myself now. It only took me few days to get used to it. Though, I got no license. It bothered me, but N109 Zone is not a place that you need to care whether you had a license or not.


    ***


    The hustle and bustle at the night market was not as what I expected from the dark market. ¡°This is surprising,¡± I whispered to myself with my finger on my chin.


    ¡°What is?¡±


    Her sudden invasion on my thought left me stunned. I stammered my way to reply her question. ¡°T¡ªNothing.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± I nodded vigorously.


    ¡°Well, how was it?¡±


    ¡°?¡±


    ¡°How was the market? Don¡¯t you see anything that interest you yet?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not sure¡­ Everything looks quite normal.¡±


    ¡°Pft¡­ Of course everything would look normal. What would you expect?¡±


    ¡°I actually thought people would be selling armories or human flesh, or organs out in the open.¡±


    ¡°They actually do¡­ Just, not here. There is another place for that kind of market. And it usually the low quality one that were sold out in the open, you know.¡±


    ¡°Is that so¡­ Fascinating.¡±


    ¡°Come along. I want you to meet someone. A great person,¡± Mira beckoned me to step inside a store. The sign wrote Odd Workshop.


    ¡°How great was he?¡±


    ¡°He was¡­ my savior.¡±


    I was dumbfounded to see it was an old man that she want to introduce me to. I think I might have seen this character somewhere, but my memory were blurry.


    ¡°How was your night yesterday? Did he make you do anything impossible yet again?¡±


    ¡°Mira! You haven¡¯t visit me for four days. I thought you might have forgotten about this old man already.¡±


    ¡°How could that be. I was busy familiarizing this new friend of mine with her new home.¡±


    ¡°Oho. Who is this new friend of yours?¡± He turned toward my direction.


    ¡°Alice, meet Philip. Philip, Alice,¡± Mira said in a casual tone pointing her finger to both of me and the old man.


    ¡°Nice to meet you, Philip.¡±


    ¡°Oh. It¡¯s a pleasure to meet you too,¡± he came closer, added, ¡°are you sure you were not kidnapped by them?¡±


    ¡°No, sir. Actually, it was Mira who saved me when I was in a pinch.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a funny story, you know,¡± she quipped in a joking manner.


    ¡°Funny for you,¡± I countered.


    ¡°What had happened to you?¡±


    I recounted the story that I told Mira of how I end up in N109 Zone, and how she saved me from a¡­ rat. It was a bit embarrassing now that I think about it, but, it was inevitable to act like a fool in such situation that are new for you. Though, it might just me who think as such.


    ¡°Oh dear¡­ If Mira didn¡¯t find you that time, I¡¯m afraid there might be possibility you would be dragged into the auction hall. You should choose your friend wisely.¡±


    ¡°I also come to that realization. That¡¯s why I was truly thankful for my meeting with Mira.¡±


    ¡°You must have a rough day this past week.¡±


    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t say. Mira rent me a room. On top of that, Luke and Kieran even found me a job.¡±


    ¡°Those brats did?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°I bet they find you an impossible job.¡±


    ¡°That¡­ they sure did¡­¡±


    Philip cracked out a laughter. ¡°Don¡¯t worry about that. I¡¯m sure there will be an ample compensation for you.¡±


    ¡°Well, the pay was good, at least. And I was not demanded to do everything either way. And there are also cleaning robot, so my work was not really that harsh. I was just an add on.¡±


    ¡°Good, good. Mira, how about your part? Have you found her friends?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s the tricky part.¡±


    I can feel the sweats on my hand as I listen to them. I think I should start searching for a way to make a lie become the truth.


    ¡°How tricky was it?¡±


    ¡°They left no traces at all. As if they never exist. But¡­¡±


    ¡°But?¡±


    My heart dropped as I heard the word but. There was a ¡®but¡¯? How so? I wondered.


    ¡°But, I found the possible people that might be them. Just that¡­ they were not here currently, in N109 Zone.¡±


    ¡°Where were they?¡± Philip asked with a serious face.


    ¡°Lincoln City.¡±

 This is N109 Zone

    How could that be? I asked myself over and over again. I just made up some identity to solidify my story, but it turned out to be real people instead.


    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Philip propped his chin as he carefully think, ¡°to get into Lincoln City, you need a legal identity documents with you, which you do not have, currently.¡±


    ¡°I already make a new one for her,¡± Mira chirped in, with her hands on her waist, boasting her action.


    ¡°Although you can easily forged a new one in N109 Zone, if you were not careful, you might get caught by the authority, and, I don¡¯t mean to belittle you, but you don¡¯t look like you have the skill to deceive people,¡± Philip ignored Mira and keep pouring out his thought to me.


    ¡°Actually there is a faster way, you could just asked them to justify your identity for you, but¡­ they might feigning ignorance instead. Actually they might just do that, with how they just abandoned you here while having the best day of their life,¡± Mira added on.


    How should I say, they won¡¯t justify for me because they really did not know me! It¡¯s not that they were heartless, they had never abandoned me in the first place.


    ¡°I have decided to put things behind. I do not wish to have anything with them anymore. Let bygones be bygones,¡± I said, bluffing my way out once again.


    ¡°Is that enough with you? Don¡¯t you at least want to blow up their place?¡±


    Curse this common sense of N109 Zone people. Do they only think about settling things with violence and chaos? I don¡¯t want to involve innocent people in this matter.


    ¡°No. There is no need for such measure. It will only attract more trouble and a waste of time. I had rather focus what is in front of me right now.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know whether to say you were foolish or you were kind,¡± Mira commented as she shrugged her shoulder.


    Philip chuckled. ¡°Not everyday you will encounter someone with big heart such as yourself.¡±


    I wonder if it was a good thing or not that their misunderstanding had escalated to such interpretation. I prefer they think of me as someone who like less trouble rather than someone who were kind.


    ¡°However¡­ would no one worry if you gone missing for too long? Like your parent or siblings?¡±


    ¡°I have no family in this world. Just me.¡±


    I was not lying. Really, no. I mean, my parent were well and alive, but not in this world. So, technically, I am alone in this world with no family. But, the look of sympathy they gave me was too burdensome. Even those living in the dark world had empathy.


    ¡°No one¡¯s going to nag you all day long then. Cool.¡±


    I take back what I said. Their way of comforting other is really pissing me off. My parent is doing great, thank you!


    ¡°What did you even came here for? I knew it was not just to introduce me to this girl, wasn¡¯t it?¡± Philip uttered as his hand continued fiddling with machines.


    ¡°Almost forgot!¡± Mira slapped her forehead with her palm, added, ¡°is there anything she could use to defend herself? She¡¯s¡­ weak¡­ like a bunny. Trembling at a sight of those little mutated rat even though that thing was easy to kill. What if she accidentally stumbled upon Wanderers?¡±


    ¡°Before you worry she would meet with Wanderers, worry that she might get abducted first. Little girl like her would sell high.¡±


    ¡°That too¡­¡±


    I wonder who were they calling little girl. Clearly, I had told Mira before that we had differences only five years apart. She was 29, and I am 24 already. And! I might looked like this, but I too have my own strength. I wouldn¡¯t let myself be caught, that was for sure.


    ¡°And¡­ she was someone without Evol, that was for sure, but, her body constitution were weaker than average. It¡¯s like she grew up in a world without Wanderers.¡±


    Upon hearing Mira¡¯s statement, my body flinched. Not sure whether I was anxious of getting exposed or scared on her deduction ability, but what I knew was, I definitely cannot be found out.


    ¡°Hmm¡­ Alice, could you get on that,¡± Philip said, pointing to the metal seat designed almost the same as surgery chair or dental chair.


    ¡°Am I about to be dissected?¡± I blurted out as I saw no way out.


    My blunt announcement brought laughter from both Mira and Philip. Mira laughed while holding her stomach while Philip looked away, perhaps, trying to hide, but the vibration his body wholeheartedly shown, definitely did not have any hint of covering the snicker.


    Their sudden burst calmed me down, and I trudged along toward the chair and took my seat.


    ¡°Aw~ what¡¯s that look for? Are you sulking?¡± Mira said, pinching my protruding lips.


    Lightly slapping her hand away, I replied, ¡°who¡¯s sulking¡­¡±


    ¡°This is¡­¡±


    Both of our attention went to Philip who wore shocked expression on his face while staring at the blue screen. He would sneak a peek on me, then turned to look at the screen, repeating the same movement few times before he finally sighed.


    ¡°How were you able to stay alive after all this year?¡±


    I was taken aback by his question. Even Mira was scrunching her eyebrows listening to him. He shook his head and fixed his gaze on me. Watching me with a look of pity, curiosity and little bit of fear.


    ¡°I am sure you know, that not all human beings were gifted with Evol,¡± he paused, waiting for our response.


    When we nodded our head, he added, ¡°however, human being human, we became more adapting to the situation and by time, developing a stronger body than before. Despite that¡­ your body¡­ seem to have never gone through that change.¡±


    An awkward silence filled the air. Somehow, I suddenly felt guilty. There was nothing wrong with me at all. That, I know. And I also know that I am different from this people who lived with Wanderers in their daily life. Unlike me, who, the most threatening figure, will be human themselves.


    ¡°Are you sick?¡± Mira uttered the word in soft spoken voice that I have yet to hear, while looking at me with confusion in her eyes.


    ¡°No. I am perfectly fine. Since birth, till now. It might be confusing, but, my hometown, where I lived, there was not much danger, or even possibilities to encounter danger. Even if I¡¯m weak, I still survived, didn¡¯t I?¡±Unauthorized reproduction: this story has been taken without approval. Report sightings.


    ¡°This is N109 Zone. You are in N109 Zone right now, not you safe little hometown,¡± her voice were higher and her sympathetic gaze turned to anger. Did I do anything wrong?


    ¡°Well¡­ I am sure I will be fine somehow. Don¡¯t worry, I will do my best to ensure my safety. I¡¯m a coward, you see. That¡¯s why, my safety will always be my priority,¡± I assured her while clenching my fists, trying to show my courage.


    Even though deep down in my heart, I was afraid. Afraid that I might not be able to go back to where I belong. Afraid I would not be able to meet my family and my friends anymore. Afraid being stranded in world so alien, alone.


    There was many thing that I was scared of, but the thing I am afraid the most, was thinking how should I lived my life here from now on. I could lost my life at any given moment. There was no super power or protagonist debuff that I could rely on. Overpower protagonist? Yeah¡­ In my dream¡­ But¡­ I think I wouldn¡¯t get it even in my dream.


    Perhaps, having lived few days here gave me strength to keep going. Well, technically, I don¡¯t have time to mull over the fact.


    I met with Mira, who gave me place to stay, Luke and Kieran, who became the bridge for me and Sylus¡­ And¡­ Sylus¡­ The one character in the game that I loved. Even though he only had his eyes on the main character.


    ¡°Old man¡­¡± Mira¡¯s voice bring me back from my solo monologue. ¡°Is there no way to make her stronger?¡±


    ¡°What? Are you suggesting me to reconstruct her body?¡±


    ¡°Could you?¡±


    ¡°Wait, wait, wait!¡± I interjected when I saw that Philip was actually considering such idea. ¡°Don¡¯t you think you have to ask for my opinion first?¡± I said, pointing my finger toward my face.


    ¡°Well¡­ It¡¯s not like you will disagree with it, right?¡± Mira replied nonchalantly.


    ¡°Why would you even think that I will agree to it?¡±


    ¡°I thought you want to live?¡±


    ¡°Sure. I want to live. But what does it matter with going through body reconstruction?¡±


    She lifted her eyebrow, confused. ¡°Do you really naively think you can live here with your current body?¡±


    That statement make too much sense that I can¡¯t refute, but I still refused to back down. ¡°I know that well¡­ But¡­ I still don¡¯t want to.¡±


    There goes again, the moment of silence. My choice seem weird for the people in this world to comprehend, and their choice was difficult for me to accept. The difference in our lifestyle brought that different way of thinking. They were not wrong from their perspective and so do I.


    Mira scratched her hair angrily, and kicked the leg of a table before storming out of the store. I turned my face toward Philip.


    ¡°She was just worried about you,¡± he said, in a soft spoken voice.


    ¡°I know, but¡­¡±


    ¡°But you won¡¯t change your mind.¡±


    ¡°Yeah.¡±


    ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°For a reason I could not tell.¡±


    ¡°Then, I guess I won¡¯t hear the answer.¡±


    That night, neither Mira nor I spoke to each other. After a brief talk with Philip, Mira came in and waited for me. Although she doesn¡¯t spoke a word to me, I knew she was still worried, and was angry with me. There were things I can¡¯t said to anyone, thus I kept my silence.


    ***


    The gloomy sky somehow seem to be comforting my soul. I started to miss my job. Dealing with governments, dealing with other museums, handling exhibition, and my hobby of gazing at each and every one of the trace of history.


    During my school days, I once work part time job as a cleaner, thus, I knew for sure, it was not an easy job. Which is why, I began to doubt whether I am doing my job properly or not, right at this moment.


    Left and right, up and down, there were machines embedded with cleaning tools. I felt useless. Although there were hidden places that they would miss, it was not too much to cover. So¡­ I lazed around a lot. Very lot. Which I would never done before. It felt strange.


    ¡°Caw!¡±


    The sudden call of affection made me jumped on my seat. Mephisto landed on a tree branch close to where I was sitting.


    ¡°Mephisto! Glad to see you again, cutie.¡±


    ¡°Caw!¡±


    ¡°Ha ha¡­ Are you shy with that nickname? But you really are a cutie!¡±


    ¡°Caw! Caw! Caw!¡±


    ¡°Aw~ I¡¯m not teasing you¡­ I¡¯m speaking the truth. And, I¡¯m not slacking off. Just taking a break.¡±


    ¡°I see he had took a liking on you.¡±


    Like a bell that rang when the break was over, or the chime in the church on a wedding day, his voice resonated into my heart like a signal something were about to start.


    ¡°Sylus,¡± I uttered as I turned around to see him walking closer.


    ¡°You look surprised.¡±


    ¡°No¡­ I didn¡¯t think I will meet you again.¡±


    He paused for seconds, and let out a scoffed. ¡°You know this is my place, don¡¯t you?¡±


    ¡°Hmm? Of course I do. This is a good place. Though I do get lost sometimes while walking, but I¡¯m making progress remembering the layout.¡±


    He took a step closer and bent his body, eyes to eyes with mine. He scowled as the time passed, seeing nothing happened. I seem to have forgotten something important, yet, I was too enchanted by the crimson blood to remember.


    He narrowed his eyes before taking his gaze off mine, presumably giving up whatever he intended to do.


    ¡°You have stop hiding it,¡± he said casually like he was trying to shift my attention.


    ¡°Ah! Yes! I thought about what you said, and decided to stop wearing contact lens. At first it was kind of awkward but no one said anything about it. I guess¡­ I¡¯m quite glad I heed your advice.¡±


    Truthfully, I just don¡¯t know where to buy contact lens. On top of that, I have only been using one kind of brand, therefore, I got no choice but to stop wearing one.


    ¡°Have you finish your work?¡±


    ¡°Yes? No. I mean, I¡¯m on a break right now.¡±


    ¡°A break? An hour before clocking out?¡±


    ¡°That¡ª Anyway! How did you know when did I clocked out? I had never told you.¡±


    He lifted his eyebrow, looking at me as he was looking at a fool. ¡°Have you forgotten who you were working for?¡±


    ¡°AH~ Right! You¡¯re the boss. Hmm? Did you came looking for me?¡±


    ¡°Have you been to Silio?¡±


    ¡°Silio? Is it a place? I think¡­ no. I have not been to that place yet.¡±


    ¡°Follow me.¡±


    ***


    I would not lie. I was excited when he brought me along to his expedition, however, I must said, this was the worst place for a date. Quite disappointing, I felt like bawling me eyes out.


    ¡°This¡­ is Silio?¡±


    ¡°How was it?¡±


    ¡°It¡­¡± my eyes darting left and right staring dagger at every store lined up in the area, and of course, the goods that were on display. I added, ¡°¡­quite fascinating.¡±


    ¡°Ho? Is that all?¡±


    There was a hint of amusement flickering in his eyes. He took pleasure observing my reaction. There it dawned to me yet again, he was only caring toward main character. Although, I could also sense there was something different with the way he treated me, albeit not out of affection.


    ¡°May I ask, what we¡¯re doing here?¡±


    ¡°You have no idea?¡±


    ¡°How could I know? You tell nothing. I¡¯m not a mind reader.¡±


    ¡°I though you were.¡±


    ¡°If I could read your mind, I will not be having trouble understanding your every move. Well, it was also fun trying to guess.¡±


    ¡°Yesterday, something of mine were supposed to arrive in due time, however, Kieran brought to me an unexpected news instead.¡±


    ¡°Had it gone missing?¡± I said casually, which earned me a glower from him, ¡°I mean¡­ no one would be brave enough to delay the shipment if you were the customer, so I concluded that it could only be an unavoidable situation like goods gone missing during delivery.¡±


    ¡°So, why do you think we¡¯re here right now?¡±


    ¡°Could it be¡­ one of these seller?¡± I muttered as I took a glimpsed on my surrounding, ¡°they don¡¯t seem capable, though¡­¡±


    ¡°Is that how you see them?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not how I see them, more like how I see you. I could never fathom those who dared to defy you. It¡¯s quite ludicrous seeing them flaunting their bravery in your territory. No fear of death, perhaps.¡±


    His mirthful sneer shot an arrow into my heart. ¡°Here I thought you were a fool, but, I see, you have a part of functioning brain in your head too.¡±


    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t be able to keep my life if I¡¯m a fool¡­¡±


    ¡°You were right,¡± he said as he poke my cheeks with his finger, ¡°¡­ make me wonder how you had lived so far.¡±


    Did I just died and descended to heaven? His rough calloused finger touched my skin. I wonder what good deed had I commit for me not only to see his devilish smile but also received his touch in one day.


    I cupped my palms on my cheeks where his warmth lingered around, hoping that I could trapped that warmth and kept it forever. Maybe I should just avoid washing my cheeks altogether.


    I don¡¯t care about the unsettled gaze I received, and I don¡¯t care the clamorous whisper from the onlookers. The heat on my face blazed like a house on fire. Even the two men that was hiding between the building had lose my interest.


    ¡°You shouldn¡¯t touch people carelessly!¡± I said in embarrassment.


    ¡°Why should I not?¡±


    ¡°Because¡­ your touch is lethal. It¡¯s a lethal weapon that struck my heart and sent me to heaven in a blink of an eyes.¡±


    He blink his eyes once. Twice. Thrice. Disbelief on his face. ¡°I was convinced you were a bunny, however, I now see¡­ fox suit you better.¡±


    The enjoyment dissipated in an instant. How am I a fox? I didn¡¯t played anyone¡¯s heart. I don¡¯t flirt with just anyone. And I¡¯m sure not as pretty as foxy women usually was. With what conviction did he came up with that conclusion, I pondered.


    ¡°How am I a fox?¡±


    ¡°These,¡± he uttered as he brushed his finger on the tip of my nose. I still have no idea what he meant, and I will never knew until the end.

 The Mechanical Crow, Mephisto

    We managed to retrieve the black gem after ambushing into an illegal auction at the black market. I don¡¯t really knew how to describe my feeling when seeing my first ever bloodshed after coming to N109 Zone, but I knew one thing for sure. Sylus was incredibly seductive when he was engulfed in the black and red mist as the blood spluttered all around the hall.


    It was unfortunate that he left me alone after that, but, I am glad to have Mephisto as my guide home. I guess the privilege to be sent back home personally by him, still belong to main character.


    I guess I need to put more effort to snatch him away from the main character. Although I don¡¯t have every information about the game, I still would be able to guess that the relationship between main character and the four main leads were already tangled from the past. An unknown past to me, that is.


    I stared down at the square box I held dear in my hand. ¡°Will he accept?¡± I mumbled to myself.


    Inside, it contained a bracelet ornamented with a piece of the black gem and adorned with few other jewels. It was the very gem that we went to retrieve.


    He liked jewels, that¡¯s what he said. He like shiny and sparkly things, just like a crow. I kind of understood why he and Mephisto seem to have the same mind.


    I was taken aback when he dumped the gem on me after all he had gone through to take it back. However, it also make me giddy and a little bit jittery in my stomach. Not only butterflies, I bet there¡¯s a whole colony of bees in my stomach, joyfully buzzing after collecting the nectar for the day.


    No matter how foolish I might seem to be, I still want to give him something, but, my paycheck were still on their way into my pocket. There were few days left before the end of the month.


    ¡°I never expected I would received something I had dumped as a gift,¡± he commented as he stroke the bracelet, scrutinizing the bracelet while glancing over my face.


    ¡°It would be a waste to throw it. And¡­ When I tried to imagine how good it looks on you, the image of that bracelet came up.¡±


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you take it for yourself? Was it not to your liking?¡±


    ¡°Of course I like it! I like it even more because it was from you! Well, it might sound gibberish when I gifted to you what you already gave me, but¡­ I can¡¯t afford anything yet, but that one.¡±


    ¡°I believe the gem was not this size when I first saw it.¡±


    ¡°Ah¡­ That¡ªthat because I break it and use a part of it to make something else.¡±


    ¡°Does it have connection with this little one?¡± he whispered to my ear as his finger traced along the silver chain drape over my neck.


    His low yet soft voice sent shiver to my spine. Avoiding his eyes that was inches from mine, I stuttered, searching for some word, ¡°This¡ª that¡ªactually¡­¡±


    ¡°Actually?¡±


    A ravishing devil was trying to tempt me into iniquitous dream. ¡°Actually, I¡­ I make a set of necklace for myself using a part of the gem.¡±


    ¡°What a romantic idea.¡±


    ¡°You won¡¯t take it from me now, would you?¡±


    ¡°Would you give it to me?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to. I wished to have a matching accessory with you.¡±


    The way his lips arched, his eyes narrowed, and the little smirk he let out, made my heart jumped and my skin cooked, like a slice of bread jumped out of the toaster.


    ¡°You had become bolder,¡± he uttered, slowly increasing the distance between us.


    ¡°It¡¯s not something shameful that I need to hide.¡±


    ¡°But your face said otherwise.¡±


    ¡°I¡ªI was just nervous. I need to go back to work! Bye!¡±


    Unable to handle the heat on my face, I ran. I had already prepared an answer and practiced how to deliver it if he were to ask about the necklace. Nevertheless, in the face of that charming devil, no words could stay still in my mind, and I end up humiliating myself in front of my beloved.


    ***


    Tell me where did I go wrong. I followed my routine diligently to avoid any mishap, yet, somehow, I got caught in one. I guess, this world, no, this place, truly bear any possibilities. How? Tell me how? Please. Anyone. Tell me. How do I defeat a Wanderer?


    Let me kindly, briefly rewind. I was on my way to my new second hand scooter that I finally bought for myself instead of borrowing Mira¡¯s motorbike, then suddenly in the middle of the way, I was here. Still doesn¡¯t make sense? Yeah, I know. Me too. I could not make sense of this too!


    ¡°Oh boy¡­ That one¡­ was ugly¡­¡±


    Never in my wildest imagination would I came to face with such an ugly creature. Ugly in my standard, that is. The body proportion was surreal, compared to human anatomy, with its skinny leg yet broad shoulder with burly top.


    When I said broad, I literally mean broad. Much broader than the shoulder of those male lead drawn in some country¡¯s comic.


    I hid behind a boulder, hoping it would not be able to sniff me out, praying I would get through it safely when there was no one I could asked for help. Perhaps, my body began to come to a realization that I am living in a world where dangers lurking around. Tears trickled down my cheeks and my heartbeat pounding faster than ever.


    Even when my eyes met with its eyes, I could only foolishly cupped my mouth to prevent my scream getting out from my lungs. It was an instinct of mine to prevent attracting more attention to myself.


    ¡®Will I die?¡¯ I thought of that for a moment.


    When it leaped toward myself, I closed my eyes, ready to die. One second, two second, three second. There was nothing. Does people felt nothing when they died?


    ¡°How long were you going to shut your eyes?¡±


    ¡°Need some help? Your legs had been trembling like a newborn fawn trying to stand after its birth.¡±


    Never for a moment would have I thought that I would be glad to hear their voice. I open my eyes and I saw the two person I would punched on weekly basis for their tasteless humor, to my standard.


    ¡°Luke? Kieran?¡± I mumbled their name, relieved.


    ¡°Wow! Never saw that face before.¡±


    ¡°Glad to see us?¡±


    ¡°How?¡± I stuttered my way asking for the reason they were here.Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on Royal Road.


    ¡°Ah~ How we¡¯re here?¡±


    ¡°On our way back¡­ got sucked into Protofield instead.¡±


    ¡°Right. Right.¡±


    ¡°Never thought would meet you here.¡±


    ¡°Did you cry?¡±


    ¡°Never see a Wanderer before?¡±


    ¡°Ah! You know. Mira had said something about this.¡±


    I looked toward Luke as he shrugged his shoulders, said, ¡°she told us to protect you if you were to run into Wanderers. Said you were weak and might die.¡±


    Should I be relieved that they were here or should I be worried with possibilities they might endanger me further? Regardless of their initial intention, I¡¯m glad that they were here. At least, I won¡¯t die yet.


    ¡°Just stay here. Don¡¯t get in our way,¡± Luke said casually before leaping off with Kieran toward the Wanderer.


    Human inevitably felt curiosity toward something they do not know, and so do I. Afraid that I might make some noise accidentally, I checked on my surrounding before turning to take a peek on their battle.


    The only battle I have watched was the one that I played as the main character, and even that one I would always put it on auto mode. I¡¯m not really nimble with my fingers. Oh! The one with Sylus from the day before does not count, for that was one sided slaughter.


    Even when I put it on auto mode, the battle that I watched before the screen could not compare to the pressure of the real battle. It only came to my mind, that this was real. I could die from one single careless mistake.


    Despite that, when I witnessed the smile formed on their face, the laughter as they slay the Wanderer, I was almost enchanted by their spirit. I could not explained the feeling I had, but what I knew, I didn¡¯t hate the fact they loved fighting.


    It was fascinating to see their pleasure for violence. I do not support deviant act, nor I accepted violence as good. I was simply enthralled by their world and the way how their moral compass was different from ours. It was as if I¡¯m witnessing a distant history with my own eyes.


    ¡®Survival of the fittest.¡¯


    ¡°Caw!¡±


    I turned around with a smile plastered on my face when I heard the lovely sound. My eyes widen as the red warm fluid sprayed on my face.


    ¡°Mephisto!¡± I shouted and hurriedly grabbed the lifeless crow that fell on the ground.


    My eyes once again locked on the ugly creature in front of us. Before the creature could moved its hand, Kieran smashed it to pieces. He took a glimpsed toward my hands and winced his eyebrows.


    ¡°We¡¯ll settle this quick,¡± he said and went back into the battle.


    The lifeless crow laid peacefully in my embrace. I placed my ear to its chest. It was still breathing. Thankfully. I was scared I might hurt it thus I wrapped Mephisto with my jacket.


    The light blue jacket was quickly soaked in red. I pray and I prayed that everything will be alright. I wished for a miracle.


    Within the next second, I found myself near the place I park my scooter. The words of gratitude could wait later, because now, there¡¯s a life that took precedence more than anything.


    ¡°It¡¯s no use! The vet won¡¯t be able to do anything at this stage!¡± Luke shouted.


    ¡°Maybe there¡¯s a way!¡± I argued desperately. I don¡¯t want to lose someone dear to me, even if that was not human.


    ¡°Philip. Bring it to Philip!¡± Kieran suggested.


    I do not knew why would he suggested Philip, but there was not much choices that I had and I was unable to make any judgment with how emotional I was. I speed up my scooter to Odd Workshop.


    ***


    ¡°Huh¡­¡±


    ¡°What was that long sigh for?¡±


    ¡°I wonder how is Mephisto right now.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re going to see him, don¡¯t you?¡±


    I nodded. ¡°Still¡­ I can¡¯t help but worry. Will Mephisto be fine after all that?¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s a tough nut to crack.¡±


    ¡°You didn¡¯t see his flesh torn apart. He was just a small crow. With that little body of his, he blocked the attack for me. I almost fainted when the blood was gushing out of his little body.¡±


    Mira patted my shoulder. ¡°I hope you don¡¯t forget that small crow was that man¡­ uh¡­ pet? friend? Whatever it is¡­¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s that got to do with Mephisto¡¯s well being?¡±


    She sighed. ¡°What I mean is¡­ Don¡¯t worry too much.¡±


    ¡°How can you not worry?¡±


    ¡°Then, go. Go and see him with your own eyes. You have been walking back and forth like a constipated person.¡±


    ¡°I only came back because Philip told me so. If I could choose, I¡¯d rather be by Mephisto side.¡±


    ¡°Is that why you applied for sick leave today? You¡¯re too honest. You could just skip for one day¡­¡±


    ¡°That is part of being professional, okay! Work ethics. Ever heard of that?¡±


    ¡°My cute little Alice became grumpier over time. What time did you said you have to be there?¡±


    I look down on my wrist. ¡°AH! I¡¯ll go first!¡± I grabbed the brown helmet on the table and stormed out of the house.


    Between excitement and nervousness, I did not knew what overwhelmed me the most. Since the first time I had met with Mephisto, I was confused whether he was truly Mephisto. As in the mechanical crow in the game.


    Unlike the in game mechanical crow, Mephisto is a living breathing crow with flesh and blood. As I held him in my hands yesterday, I could felt the warmth emanating from his blood.


    ¡°You came,¡± Philip looked up to me with his dead eyes, tired from working overnight, or perhaps few unknown nights.


    ¡°How was he?¡± I asked, suppressing my anxiety.


    ¡°Look behind you.¡±


    ¡°Caw!¡±


    My lips curled up as the voice reached my ears. I turned around and there I saw. A mechanical crow parallel to the I saw in the game.


    ¡°Mephisto?¡±


    ¡°Caw!¡±


    ¡°No. Of course I¡¯m happy you are alive!¡±


    ¡°Caw!¡±


    ¡°My face?¡±


    ¡°Caw!¡±


    ¡°No, no. This. I was¡­ surprised. Yes, I was surprised seeing¡­ this¡­ change. You look¡­ cool.¡±


    True indeed. I was surprised, or maybe, flabbergasted to see the very same mechanical crow as the one portrayed in the game. When I first saw Mephisto, I thought, perhaps, this is another real world similar to the game Love and Deepspace. There was resemblance yet also differences.


    However, seeing the Mephisto after surgery, the mechanical crow Mephisto, make me doubt my initial thought. Perhaps, the differences that I saw was not due to it being a different world, but because it didn¡¯t happen yet.


    As I came to this realization, I wondered what actually happened to me. And, it dawned to me, that the history between Sylus and main character was not something I could overlook. It seem, I had always been late to plant the seed of love in his heart.


    I thought I might had a tiny bit of chance with the way he interact. Maybe, I could at least became someone close to him. But¡­ I see¡­ It was impossible. Be it as friend, or lover, he would only had eyes on main character.


    Then¡­ why am I here?


    I¡¯m not like some unfortunate slave worker who was transmigrated to find happiness in another realm. I loved my job, even my coworker was good and talented people that could be counted on. Although, it might seem pompous of me, but I was a good worker myself.


    Health problem? Scratch that. I¡¯m as healthy as a bull. Finance? I might not be wealthy, but I could live rather comfortably without any debt. I even brought my house on full payment. Regret? I always lived my life to the fullest since young age.


    Now that this questions popping up rather suddenly to my mind, I felt nausea and the world before my eyes kept spiraling. Why am I here? What should I do? What was it that I have to do? What was my purpose being here anyway?


    ¡°CAW! CAW!¡±


    That was the last voice I heard before I closed my eyes as I blacked out. Stress, could be. I don¡¯t know how, but when I opened my eyes, I was already in my room, with Mephisto looking straight into my eyes.


    ¡°Morning?¡±


    ¡°Caw!¡±


    ¡°Were you worried about me?¡±


    ¡°Caw! Caw!¡±


    ¡°I can assure you, I did not faint because of you.¡±


    ¡°Caw?¡±


    ¡°There was something else on my mind, and I was just tired. I think I might asked for vacation.¡±


    ¡°Caw?¡± Mephisto tilted its head.


    ¡°Ha, ha, ha¡­ I need to ask for permission if I don¡¯t want my salary to be cut down, of course. What do you mean I don¡¯t need to ask for permission¡­ I¡¯m a worker¡­ Worker can¡¯t slack off just because they wanted too.¡±


    ¡°Caw! Caw!¡±


    ¡°Aw~ You will asked Sylus on my behalf? How sweet. But, it¡¯s okay, cutie. I also would like to meet him myself.¡±


    ¡°Caw?¡±


    ¡°I will be fine. I have gotten enough rest.¡±


    There was something weird with the context. Got enough rest to ask for vacation? Yeah, I would not even dream of doing that before. Even so, I need some time off, even if it was only few days off, to rethink about my purpose being stranded in this world.


    ¡°Caw!¡±


    ¡°Oh? You¡¯ll go with me?¡±


    ¡°Caw!¡±


    ¡°Sure.¡±


    Thinking back, when I first arrived, I was too stunned to even sit down and calmly reflected my own situation. Everything happened in a blink of an eyes and it just sort of happen.


    Then, I met Sylus. Like a man trapped in darkness, suddenly found a sliver of light. I blindly fell for him from the extension of my feeling from the game. If I could be with this man, if I could be by his side, I thought, then I would not mind being trapped in this world.


    However, this man, the one who I fell for, the one I gave my heart to, was meant for another person. He also had his heart for someone else. What about me? What happen after they were happy? I had nothing here. I found myself lost once again.


    ¡°You look much better.¡±


    The voice of the man in front of me pulled me out. My eyes were fixed on him. He was talking to the mechanical crow that seem to be posing himself in various pose, showcasing his new magnificent body. I told you I¡¯m not the only one that spoke to that cute little crow in human language!


    ¡°Sylus¡­¡± I called out his name.


    ¡°Alissa.¡± He said my name, the word I would never heard the Sylus in the game said.


    ¡°I¡ªI¡¯m sorry.¡±


    ¡°For what?¡±


    ¡°Mephisto was badly injured because he tried to protect me.¡±


    ¡°And?¡±


    ¡°And¡­¡±


    He sighed. ¡°Mephisto protected you out of his own volition. It had nothing to do with me. Tell your sorry to this little guy here.¡±


    ¡°Caw!¡±


    ¡°Hmm. Even he do not want your apology,¡± Sylus commented, ¡°is there other word you could say to him than sorry?¡±


    ¡°¡­ Thank you. Thank you Mephisto. For protecting me. And, I¡¯m sorry for expressing my gratitude quite late.¡±


    ¡°So¡­ What is this about vacation?¡±


    ¡°That¡­ I wanted to apply for paid leave, but I don¡¯t know who to ask. Luke and Kieran was out for mission, so I just came here with Mephisto to directly asked for your permission.¡±


    ¡°No.¡±

 Young Lover of the Leader of Onychinus

    ¡°Excuse me?¡± I was in a state similar to taken aback, but not really, but also truly.


    ¡°What if I say no?¡±


    ¡°Then, I guess, I just have to come to work like usual.¡±


    ¡°Do you know what we call someone like you?¡± he paused, staring into my eyes, ¡°honest to a fault.¡±


    ¡°Thank you?¡±


    ¡°That was not a compliment here.¡±


    ¡°Ah! Was that an insult? But, I don¡¯t really feel insulted hearing that.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t really suit N109 Zone. Where were you from?¡±


    ¡°A small country called Yutalana. You might have never heard about it before. It was not really a prominent country.¡±


    ¡°How come you are so sure I have not heard about it before?¡±


    Of course you don¡¯t! That was my country in the real world! And when I was doing some background check, there was not a country in this world with the same name as mine. I was quite shocked with the information, to be honest.


    ¡°Because it¡¯s a small country with no riches and no development that could be an attraction. I doubt you could spare a moment in a place with nothing to see and nothing to gain.¡±


    ¡°Impressive. You managed to entice my interest. Shall we go to see your hometown?¡±


    ¡°Will you? Will you truly spent time with me going to my hometown?¡±


    ¡°You should considered yourself lucky. I do not have time to spare on someone else.¡±


    Someone else. Yes. That¡¯s right. I am just ¡®someone else¡¯ to him. Of course. I knew it, but it still hurt. Make me wonder what actually happened between him and main character in the past. How was it that she managed to left such deep feelings in his heart.


    ¡°What about my vacation?¡±


    ¡°Your paid leave had been approved. Now, leave,¡± he said as he waved his hand.


    With nothing else on my mind, I roamed around the city aimlessly on my scooter. The wind that blew my face was not as refreshing as one could imagine. Due to the N109 Zone weathers apparently.


    I missed the blue sky, the light wave of the sea, and the feeling of sand beneath my feet. A scenery that could not be seen in this city. A scenery that will sure calmed one soul and mind. Well, at least, my soul and my mind.


    Being mindless was one thing, but mindlessly wandering in the city full of trickery was another. I should had known better not to roam around especially in N109 Zone. Now, what to do? I¡¯m lost.


    I¡¯m too scared to ask around. The people near me does not seem to be the least friendly at all. It was not my intention to judge based on their appearance. I just, judged them based on the fact this was N109 Zone. Let me repeat, this, here, was N109 Zone.


    I could already felt some people were gawking right at my back. I don¡¯t even dare to stop anywhere. Too scary. Right just when I thought that, a beam of light probing into my eyes.


    The radiant lights robbed my vision, resulting to an accident. Before I fell with my scooter, fortunately, I managed to dodge to the side. At least, I knew I did not crashed with another vehicle.


    My whole body was aching in pain. I could felt my right leg was being crushed down by my scooter. There was a tingling pain on my skin, especially on my palm. I tried to take a look on my hand, yet my mind was fuzzy and my head felt so heavy. I could hear people¡¯s voice, yet it felt so distant with the ringing in my ears.


    Footsteps. Yes, I could hear footsteps. My mind was between conscious and unconscious. Was it a dream, or was it real. Suddenly, my right legs which I felt so heavy to lift, become lighter again. And my body was floating in the air. Or, was I being carried?


    I bit my tongue, trying to regain my composure. Not sure where I learn that, but it work for me. I¡¯m in a car. Lying on the passenger seat. Two men, one bald, another with buzz cut, was in the front seat.


    They don¡¯t even bother to tie me up. Well, I could understood why. I don¡¯t have any energy left to move around. My pain threshold had always been low. Not something I was proud of.


    ¡°Ah. You¡¯re awake already?¡± the man with buzz cut quipped, as he looked at me through the front mirror while driving.


    ¡°She¡¯s awake?¡± the bald man said, twisting his head, meeting with my eyes. He scoffed, ¡°thought you¡¯ll get knocked out. Quite a strong lady, aren¡¯t you?¡±


    Ah¡­ I wondered if anyone will noticed I¡¯m missing. Mira won¡¯t be back until next week. Must this happen right after I got my paid leave?


    ***


    When it comes to clothing preferences, I would said I prefer baggy and loose clothes that was not revealing and modest in look. Which was why I felt incredibly exposed with the clothes they had put on me.


    ¡°Not one in here haven¡¯t heard of the name Sylus. Now, I would like to present to all honorable guest, the young lover of the leader of Onychinus!¡± the auctioneer spoke with a loud convincing voice, even though he spoke nothing but lies.


    ¡°Is that true?¡±


    ¡°Oh! She had those eyes, just like the rumors.¡±


    ¡°Maybe it¡¯s really her?¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s just like the rumors.¡±


    ¡°Not bad.¡±


    The murmuring kept getting louder and their gaze becoming intense as the time passed. I could not believed how easily these people ate the word of this fraudulent host. Although I do wonder what was the rumors they were talking about.


    ¡°Her milky white skin, smooth and fragrant brown hair would surely be the perfect decoration by your side. Not to mention, her enchanting eyes that will sucked you in as you gaze into it, would give you the shiver as one you would when you reached the climax.¡±


    This guy was definitely crazy. Look how he introduced his product, which was me. How ridiculous. Does he thought people would fall for his word? It was too cringed, too corny. If only my mouth were not taped, I would barfed already.


    ¡°We shall start the bid with 50,000 gold,¡± the host announced with a smile full of anticipation.


    Was he crazy? I repeatedly screamed in my heart. Not only did he lied about me being Sylus lover, he also put too much price on me. Wait! Was it too much or was it too little? I can¡¯t really said.


    ¡°02, 55,000¡±


    ¡°45, 60,000¡±Stolen story; please report.


    ¡°31, 65,000¡±


    ¡°96, 70,000¡±


    The host excitedly broadcasting bidder by bidder as the prices kept rising. His eyes shone with greed.


    ¡°75, 90,000!¡±


    ¡°45, 100,000!¡±


    ¡°Oh! What is this? 65, 1,000,000!¡±


    A man holding out something similar to a paddle, or was it a picket, with number 65 written on it, stared at me with a deep questioning gaze. His face was unknown as he wore a blue masquerade mask that covered his whole face.


    ¡°1,000,000 going once¡­ going twice¡­,¡± he paused, and looked around the people murmuring, ¡°¡­sold! Congratulations to bidder 65. You may claimed the product after the auction.¡±


    What was another word that I could used other than ¡®crazy¡¯? Do tell me. This guy was a nut job. I could not comprehended his reasoning for throwing away 1,000,000 just for a person. Just for this little me. Was the idea snatching away Sylus lover that tempting for him?


    ¡°Next item, protocore¡ª¡±


    Two guard came and brought me to a room. Lavishly decorated room with an incense smoke wafting through the air. They handcuffed my hand to the bed pole and had me sat on the soft fluffy bed for hours. I was not sure how many hours passed but the tiredness made my mind drifted into the dreamland.


    When I came to consciousness, I was in a room, different from the one the two guard put me in previously. An enlightenment came to my mind, on the fact that the incense I have been inhaling was sleep inducing. I should have known better that my opinion does not matter to these people.


    A knock came to the door. Around three women came in, along with a man, probably in his thirtieth. He glanced me upside down, and turned toward the women, said, ¡°clean her, then send her to my room.¡±


    ¡°Why do I have to go to your room?¡± I raised my voice before he left the room, forcing him to turn his attention to me.


    ¡°Why else?¡± he scoffed while shrugging his shoulders, said, ¡°not to play chess, that for sure.¡±


    ¡°I refuse to.¡±


    ¡°What make you think you have a say?¡± he muttered as he slowly walked closer, grabbing my hair, and pulling it backward, ¡°I bought you. You¡¯re mine.¡±


    Resistance was futile. I knew, yet I plunged my nails into his arm that was clutching on my hair. It was a good thing I forgot to trim my nails.


    ¡°You!¡± he winced in pain as he released his grip. Would he be kind enough to let me be? No. His hand quickly grabbed my neck, and he pushed me down on the bed. Strangling me down with his legs suppressing my lower body from moving, and his other hand holding down my arms.


    ¡°You think Sylus could help you? What to do? No matter how much intel he had, he would never be able to track you down. Do you think he was the only powerful person in the city? He only managed to keep his head up because I was too lazy to be bothered by mundane affairs.¡±


    The pain from the accident two days ago still have not healed properly, and now I had to prepare to receive another injury. What luck am I having?


    ¡°Mister. I think you misunderstanding something here¡­¡± I said, struggling to free myself.


    At least my neck was safe for now, I added, ¡°Sylus won¡¯t even be bothered to save me. I was quite amazed that all of you stupid people would believed what the auctioneer said about me being his lover, when all I am was a cleaner. I guess, your boasting was all bark no bite.¡±


    Question. What happened when you agitated a violent person? Answer. You will received gift either by their hand or their feet.


    ¡®Smack¡¯


    In a blink of an eyes, I felt a sudden throbbed of pain on my cheek. The tingling heat boiled my heart. If only I could tear this piece of junk into pieces.


    ¡°You better be on your best behavior!¡± he shouted as he let go of his grip on my neck and stormed out of the room.


    The three women did not wait on me and exited the room as well. I wondered if he would met with the auctioneer to have some nice talk, resolving the misunderstanding. Either way, I felt pretty good letting it all out rather than staying silent. Although that earned me a slap on my face.


    ¡°I missed him already¡­¡± mumbling alone like a pathetic I am.


    My whole body was begging to rest. However, my mind was as clear as the blue sky, convincing me to get out of here. After I got out, I will get all the rest my body deserved, I promised.


    Inhale, exhale. With the remaining strength, I rose from the bed and roamed around the room, looking for anything that I could used. I turned to the balcony, attempting to open the window, yet failed miserably.


    ¡°Should I just break it?¡± I pondered for second, shaking my head, ¡°no, no¡­ I would only attracted their attention by doing so.¡±


    Usually, in a moment like this, either the male lead will came to the rescue or the protagonist would somehow found a way or secret door to escape. Guess that only happened in story.


    Giving up the window, I trotted to the door instead, twisting the knob. ¡°Oh! They didn¡¯t lock the door. What a waste of time!¡± I gritted my teeth cursing my foolish behavior minutes ago.


    I took a peek on the hallway outside of the room, browsing through the wall and ceiling. There were surveillance camera in every corner. I clicked my tongue. ¡°Can¡¯t they make it easier for me?¡±


    ¡°Look at that area!¡±


    ¡°This way! This way!¡±


    My ears perked up at the sudden uproar. ¡°A break in?¡± I guessed. Sensing the perfect opportunity, I sneaked out from the room. Not really sneaking out, more like, brazenly walked out of the room considering there was no one monitoring my movement.


    I gave my gratitude to whoever it was that managed to turn the whole mansion upside down. Even when I leisurely strolling through the hallway, no one paid any attention. The guards were busy catching the intruders.


    ¡°Search that area!¡±


    Just when I had that peaceful thought, the sound of the guards marching closer alarmed me into hiding. I went into what I thought an empty room, only to be greeted by a man cupping my mouth.


    ¡°Shh. I won¡¯t do anything if you keep quiet,¡± he whispered, putting his forefinger to his lips.


    Do I even had any choice? I nodded regardless. He slowly let go of his grasped and locked the door.


    ¡°A worker from this mansion?¡± he said, with his arms crossed before his chest.


    I shook my head. ¡°No. I was taken against my will and served to that trash.¡±


    ¡°Do you want to escape from here?¡±


    ¡°I am trying.¡±


    He went silent upon hearing my response, deep in thought. The awkwardness in the air almost choked me to death.


    ¡°You¡­ by yourself?¡± I said, breaking the silence.


    ¡°Um,¡± he nodded.


    ¡°How did you managed to break in?¡±


    ¡°I have my way.¡±


    ¡°You think you can bring both of us out?¡±


    ¡°You want my help?¡±


    ¡°Of course I need some help. I¡¯m practically risking myself just having the thought of escaping. Can you help?¡±


    He went silent again, seemingly brooding over my request. There was nothing I could offer and I was in too much pain to even thought of crying or begging in tears for help. Although I might seem insincere, I still had to shamelessly asked for his help.


    ¡°I will help you, only once,¡± he extended his hand as he spoke.


    ¡°One time is all I need,¡± I grabbed the hand that he offered and was pulled closer to his side.


    ¡°Close your eyes.¡±


    Following his instruction, I closed my eyes. It was a weird experience. Even through my closed eyes, I saw a glimmer of light.


    ¡°You can open your eyes now.¡±


    Even though I knew I was not supposed to be surprise anymore, I still, was taken aback. Just a moment ago, we were in that dark room, and in a blink of an eyes, we already in an open area. Turning to my left and right, I could no longer saw any mansion.


    ¡°Where are we?¡±


    ¡°Somewhere close to the Nest,¡± the man replied while fixing his cap.


    I was unable to see him properly while in the room because of the lack of any lighting as support to my eyes. Now that I saw him clearly under the moon light, he seem familiar. At least, his hair seem familiar. His face was hidden beneath the cap as he kept his head down.


    ¡°Well. I guess this is it¡­¡± I bowed as a gesture of gratitude, ¡°thank you. Without your help, I doubt I could make a run for it safely. I had nothing on me to give as my gratitude, however, I promised, if you need help in the future, come to me.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s okay.¡±


    ¡°A man of few words, I see.¡± He stood there silently, with no response. I guess that was my cue, and said, ¡°well, then, I¡¯ll get going. If you need anything in N109 Zone, find me in Nerra street. I goes by the name¡ª¡±


    ¡°Alissa?¡±


    ¡°Yes, yes! That¡¯s my n¡ª¡± I just realized whose voice was it that uttered my name. I turned around and saw his face with a strange curiosity gleamed in his astonished eyes.


    ¡°Oh! It¡¯s Alice!¡±


    ¡°What are you doing in this area?¡±


    Luke and Kieran interjected. They emerged from his back, waving their blood stained hand toward me.


    ¡°Fancy meeting you here. Enjoying your vacation?¡± Sylus commented, with a little grin on his face.


    ¡°I¡­¡±


    What should I answered? I got into accident, got abducted by human trafficker who end up selling me to one of your rival, almost got laid, but managed to escape with the help of a capable stranger. Was that the right answer?


    ¡°Your friend?¡± he beckoned to the man who was hidden behind me. Not totally hidden, cause they could still saw his silhouette.


    ¡°Ah¡­ No. We just met today. I was about to go back home.¡±


    He narrowed his eyes gazing intensely toward the man, when suddenly a gush of wind swooped his cap off. His silver hair shone bright under the moonlight. His blue eyes were cold yet there was still a faint of lingering warmth.


    I don¡¯t know when Sylus was there, but there he was, holding a fancy looking gun before the man¡¯s forehead. ¡°A hunter, I see,¡± he mumbled, with a hint of annoyance hidden beneath the amusement.


    A glowing light flared through his hand where a fine looking sword emerged from nowhere. He held his sword against Sylus¡¯s neck.


    I knew this man, without a doubt. It was him. ¡°Xavier?¡± I mumbled under my breath as I wonder why would someone who should be in Lincoln City stood here, not far away from me.


    They exchanged a greeting in a violent form, full of murderous intent with an intensity that took away my breath. My stamina was already low after what happened in the past few days, and I felt it depleted even more just watching their fight.


    Xavier leaped forward baring his sword toward Sylus. Unable to stand the pressure, I jumped right before Xavier, with my arms wide open, in a protecting stance in front of Sylus. He halted right before his sword penetrate into my body. Xavier¡¯s eyes met mine.


    ¡°He is the leader of Onychinus,¡± he sternly said, as if I did not knew it before.


    ¡°I know,¡± I replied without batting an eyes. In an instant, I could felt something hard pressed on the back of my head.


    ¡°How funny,¡± Sylus quipped in disbelief, ¡°are you¡­ trying to protect me?¡±