LOTA CH4 — Hellish Training

CLANG! CLANG!

The sounds of clashing dull blades can be heard throughout the courtyard.

「 Come on Renald. Is that all you got?! 」

I’m in the midst of exhaustion, sweat is sticking on my shirt, gasping for air. Many slight cuts can be felt stinging around my arms and face. I still stand, yet my body felt heavy. I tighten my grip on my sword while pointing it to the instructor. Waiting for his next move.

「 Remember what you’ve learned, kid! 」

He dashes towards me. A heavy slash to my right. Same old trick huh. I parry it. The force knocks me back a bit. Balance is thrown out of the window. I plant my left foot behind me, somehow maintaining my already sluggish posture. He jumps back, creating distance. He readies his sword; a mocking smirk plastered on his face. Damn it, he’s going easy on me.

I took a deep breath, and release it slowly. Remembering what I’ve learned, I start feeling my mana — calling it to surge throughout my body. Channeling it to my left hand. As I concentrate on the magic runes for my spell. Small detailed red runes start hovering in front of my palm. I push my gesturing left hand forward and chant,

『 Pyre! 』

Gush of flames flows out of my hand. He protects himself as expected. Crossing arms; covering his head. Slightly burnt marks can be seen all around his light armor. My mana reserve is now quite depleted; only enough for one more spell. It’s all or nothing.

I prepared and concentrated on a completely different magic rune. Mana surges throughout my body, as I direct it to my left hand again. White blue-ish runes start hove-

「 HAAAAA!!! 」

Shit, he unexpectedly jumps at me. Sword and arms up his head. Desperate to deal the final blow. Out of panic but with a tinge of calmness, I finished my rune image and shout,

『 Pulso! 』

Force thrust blows outwards of my hand. Knocking him back, throwing him off balance. He’s trying to balance himself. His legs appear to be jelly. Now is my chance. I close the distance. My sword thrusting to his personal space. With the tip of my dull blade near his neck.

「 Nice one, kid. I yield. 」

At last, I was able to come out victorious…

I fall down to the ground. Legs and arms widespread in the dirt. Having the time to rest and catch up with my breath.

As soon as I calm down, my heartbeat slowly yet surely increases. I desperately place my hand on my heart. Each beat, becoming heavier and louder, until it was the only thing I could hear. Agony starts spreading as each beat increases.

My lungs that have already been out of breath, tightened, making it harder to breathe. I’m being hanged again, but this time without the painful sensation around my neck.

「 Hrrrk… 」

「 Kid, are you okay? Oh shit, hang in there! 」

The once clear blue sky somehow becomes blurry and foggy. Time seems to slow to a trickle; I don’t know how long I have been laying in the dirt. Seconds feel like minutes as my heart throbs heavily as if it wants to break out.

Am I going to die again?

Something unknowingly flows to my lips as I unconsciously swallow it. It was very sour and thick. My throat starts to warm up and itches. So I cough and cough, feeling the water overflow around my face. But some still manage to pass through my throat.

As the unknown substance went inside my stomach, the heat gradually stirred around my throat and stomach. As if campfire charcoal was placed inside. It was mind-numbing, all of my senses could only feel the heat. Ironically, it was a great way to diverge my attention from the horrible agony.

When the heat becomes unbearably uncomfortable, it immediately cools down. As it cools down the pain subsides, my heartbeat slows down, and breathing becomes easier. Until it, all went back to normal.

 

*GASP*!

 

I got up and tried sitting on the ground. I looked at the instructor that was beside me. Mentally exhausted from all of the pain I experienced.

「 What… happened to me, sir? 」

「 Your mana got depleted. How many times do I have to tell you to not empty your mana reserves?! 」

「 Sorry, sir. But thank you for the mana potion, sir. 」

「 Since you are so sorry, tomorrow we’ll run an extra three miles! 」

「 Yes sir… 」

I won the battle, yet I lost the war. I must get a good night’s sleep today…

My vision goes to a daze, looking to the trees until Instructor Kalish stood in front of me and his hand reached out towards me. Guess I have to stand up now. I reached his hand and got up. He offers his water canteen. I gladly receive it and jug down on it like a stranded man, desperate for water.

「 To think you can chant two spells consecutively in just a year since we first started. Not bad for a mama’s boy. 」

I almost choked when I heard that. I would’ve been ashamed if I didn’t progress quickly, since magic so far is actually quite easy. Is it because I’m used to abstract and complex concepts? I finish drinking and begrudgingly respond.

「 Yes, sir. 」

「 You did pretty well this time. Unlike last time where you depend too much on how your opponent’s next move is, you quickly react to unexpected moves. Do you remember why?  」

「 Because if I anticipate too much on the opponent’s move, I will be really startled if it didn’t go as I expected, sir. 」

「 Not bad. 」

But I must say, although learning magic theory is easy, applying it and using it in the middle of combat is the opposite. It’s so hard since you have to be mindful of your opponents while simultaneously preparing and envisioning your spell cast to the exact detail. Maybe I should practice chanting more at midnight.

「 Next time we meet, we will start learning Aegis magic. Make sure to get a head start by reading basic Aegis magic books. Try to learn the spell《Parma》. It’s a spell that casts a protective shield from physical attacks in front of you. 」

「 Finally! Yes, sir! 」

「 But remember before we start learning, we’ll run six miles! Not including the extra three miles! 」

「 Yes sir… 」

「 Any questions before we are finished with our training session? 」

「 Since I’m already quite proficient in basic Assault magic. Can I start experiencing real combat experience from monsters? 」

It’s about time I start finding out what it feels like to take out monsters. My body is still quite young and inexperienced, I need to get used to killing monsters as soon as possible. The instructor gazed at me with a grin. His gaze was piercing; sending goosebumps all over. Seemingly checking whether I’m ready for it.

「 Huh… Sure, I guess… But, only with Lady Heva-sama permission. Let me know if you have her permission by tomorrow, and on the day after tomorrow, we’ll head out to the southwest forest. 」

「 Thank you, sir! 」

「 Then, if there’s nothing else, the training session is over. 」

「 Alright. Thank you for your instructions as always! 」

I bowed slightly. It was only until Instructor Kalish’s silhouette was gone that I moved my head up.

Both my body and mind are fully exhausted. Damn it, I should’ve been more careful on managing my mana reserve. I forced myself to go inside the house, I was on my way to my room. Since it’s still around evening, I came up with a plan to try my hardest to review the magic I’ve learned so far and to learn the new spell.

「 Ara ara~ My boy is injured again as always. 」

And there she was at the front of my room, my mother in her blue gown. On top of her head sat a black pillbox hat with a veil covering her face. With how spectacular she is right now, she must have gone out somewhere and arrived back home recently.

「 Hi mother… Did you know that I finally bested instructor Kalish in a duel? 」

「 Oh my, is that why you got heavily injured huh sweetie? 」

My mother walks right at me and starts hugging me.

「 Yes mother. M-mother, I’m sweaty right now! It will ruin your dress! 」

「 That’s fine. You don’t need to worry about it. What’s more important right now is to get you treated right away. Most noble girls like their boyfriend gentle without battle scars, you know. 」

「 M-mother! 」

Seemingly not noticing my puffed red cheeks, she pulls away and grabs my hand as we come inside the room. Nearing the bed, she points to it, indicating I should lay down on it. She took off her hat as I lay down and sat near the edge of the bed beside me. She closes her eyes, looking like she’s concentrating on a spell. Magic runes appear as her cold hand touches the shirt on top of my chest.

「 Our dear goddess which art in heaven…
Our dear goddess, Maria…
Bless this soul your healing gift…
Heal our beloved ones;
『 Sano! 』 」

Small blobs of light start flickering around me. I can feel my wounds closing up, albeit the very few bigger ones are only partially healed. This is the power of the《School of Miracle & Blessing Magic》.

「 I went to meet with your father today. He said that he’s quite proud of your progress and will admit you to the Bosarts University after you turn sixteen. 」

Bullshit. That father of mine deliberately says that only to make you happy, mother. I’ll bet he’s only admitting me to that university just so he won’t lose face from the noble community and spend more time with you. Last time I met him a few months ago on Ryden’s birthday — the second oldest son in the Alderhide family. He praises older siblings more than I. When we are talking and my mother is around he glimpsed over to her constantly, thinking I wouldn’t catch that. But most importantly, he only acted politely towards me, as if I was a stranger and not a son to him. Can’t really blame him though, since compared to my older siblings’ skills and achievement, mine is minuscule.

That reminds me, apparently, my mother isn’t the only wife he has. There are two other wives, with my mother being the youngest of them all. From my observation that day, that father of mine treats my mother better compared to his other wives. And from how I was basically treated like air by the other relatives in this family, I’m truly at the bottom of the barrel.

「 Now take a rest. I know you want to study, dear. But some of your wounds have not been fully healed yet. 」

「 But I still have so many things to learn! 」

「 No buts, Renald. 」

「 Fine… But then… at least allow me to go into the southwest forest with Instructor Kalish. 」

Her eyes widen, grabbing both of my hands with hers as she squeezes them.

「 What?! Why do you want to go to such a dangerous place?! 」

Her painful expression is quite worrying and a bit of guilt rises inside me. I avert my gaze away from her and say,

「 Mother, you are over exaggerating things. Eldest brother Elric has already swept out most hostile monsters in the forest. What’s left is just weak monsters and the wild hunt. With the guidance and protection from Instructor Kalish, I’ll be fine.  」

「 For goodness sake, Elric is a noble adult! It’s expected for him to kill monsters to protect the land and commoners, while you’re still a noble boy! Please tell me why… Why do you want to go there? 」

「 Because… I want to get stronger and to experience real combat, instead of spending all of my time training in the courtyard. 」

「 I just don’t understand… Why do you want to become stronger so bad? Is there something bugging you, Renald? 」

「 No, no, no! I’m fine, mother. 」

「 I don’t think so Renald. It seems as if you are in such a hurry to get stronger. Every day you train and learn magic non-stop. A stepback such as mana going out of hand, or difficult concepts seems to never stop your amazing progress.

But from these past few months, I’ve observed you, it looks like you are doing all this to run away from something. Call it a mother’s intuition.  」

What? I’m just studying hard and preparing myself for the future. How could that be considered as running away from something? Am I missing something?

Silence remains in this room…

「 If you’re still not ready to share it with me then it’s alright. Your lovely mother can wait, just for you. Just promise me you will always be careful and prioritize safety first. I’ll also make sure to tell Butler Drake to give you some options for your trip. 」

「 Huh… Oh, really mother?! Thank you so much, mother! Don’t worry, I’ll make sure to prioritize my safety first. 」

「 But you must take a rest today okay? No more studying for the day. 」

「 Okay mother. 」

「 Bye sweetie. Remember, no studying today. 」

She pecks a kiss on my forehead and then leaves the room. The slight moisture on my forehead and sharp steps fading away are what’s left of her.

My mind is still worn out, but that’s not an excuse to not study more. After making sure time has flown away for a bit, I get off the bed and make my way to the desk. I open the book about Aegis beginner magic and start reading the content. While reading, I rest my hand on top of my head, trying to massage away the headache — a normal occurrence for me.

Ah.

Drops of blood start dripping out of my nose – another normal occurrence for me.

 

Previous Chapter — Next Chapter

LOTA CH3 — Adjusting to New Life

「 Ahh~! Yes, Master~ Please… 」

「 Please what? Please go faster? Harder? Answer me, cheating slut. 」

「 Nnngh~! Please stop~ 」

「 Ohhh, I absolutely won’t stop. Seeing your sexy body and your beautiful face only for that excuse of a man you called husband. No, You need this. You need to be broken down into my fuck toy because let’s face it, I’m better than that husband of yours.  」

「 Y-yes master~ Why did I ever married to that man instead of you master~ ♡  」

 

Why… Why did you cheat on me, Karin? 

All this time, I thought we were meant together…

Was it all just a play — a gimmick for you?

Have you ever truly loved me in the first place?

 

…..

 

I wake up; sweats all around me. I then realized it was yet another nightmare that has been haunting me for as long as I can remember in this whole new different world. Why am I having these dreams? Love is just a big fat lie anyway.

I’ve been stuck in this shitty world for about two weeks with no choice but to continue living. Counting almost every minute passing by. Probing myself whether to continue living when no matter how hard I did and follow what’s expected of me, everything is pointless and nothing good comes out of it.

They say pursue the things I’m passionate about, so I pursue history for my bachelor’s degree. Yet, they daringly also say to pursue the things that will contribute to society, so I switched studies and pursued industrial engineering — a field I hate and love simultaneously.

They say it is the man’s duty to love and cherish his wife. To prioritize his wife’s happiness in return for the husband to be happy. But what I got in return is bitterness.

I would lay awake and stare at the ceiling contemplating my past life — reflecting on the choices I’ve made, questioning the way I see the world.

Those facades she put on to me. Her innocent smile hides her devilish lie. Her hidden lust never shown to me before.

What did I do wrong? Why did she cheat on me? How could all of this happen?

Until it, all… starts to make sense. I cringe at my younger self who’s full of naivety and delusional.

Of course, she will pick that man over me. He has everything I don’t have. Wealth? He has a luxurious car, costing more than my house mortgage. Status and power? He has his own business project that surely earns him millions of dollars, compared to me who’s just a lowly system engineer.

It all stems down to one undeniable truth I wished I have known way earlier. That true love does not exist. Women will always choose the more alpha men in a heartbeat. I can’t really blame them. I mean, men would’ve chosen prettier girls too. It’s just how the world works.

To gain love, men must be both powerful and wealthy. How did I not know this in my past life when there’s plenty of occurrence on this matter? Young hot girls would swarm over to rich and powerful old men. Society would think those girls are very shallow but the ones who said that are definitely the very people who don’t have power and wealth; overly jealous of those men.

All of this reveals an unpleasant truth. But it’s alright. At the very least now I know how to overcome it and improve myself to perhaps be worthy to feel love once more.

I arose from my bed and went to the table. On it were several papers and books lying around, with some of them were my notes from previous intense studying. I start reviewing my notes. These past few days I’ve been trying to learn as much about this world as possible. The writing system in this world is interestingly quite similar to Japanese; minus the mind-boggling kanjis. Because of that, and thanks to Butler Drake’s help, understanding writings came effortlessly and only took half a day.

He was quite shocked by the rapid speed of my learning. He muttered about how I really did change once during training. It doesn’t really matter, rather than worrying about my social image, I need to get ahead of learning magic.

The ‘Introduction to Magic’ book that I found lying around in the house’s library went into a brief explanation about this world’s magic. Magic in this world is defined as the art of manipulating mana energy at one’s own will. Mana exists inside all living beings with some races being blessed with it more than others. The people who dedicate their lives studying and mastering magic are called Magicians.

The art of magic is very vast and some forms of magic are inherent to a single race. The organization 《Association of Magicians》 categorizes magic as seven different schools of magic.

The《School of Aegis Magic》 —  The magic art of using mana to protect oneself and others. The embodiment of defense and protection magic. Aegis Magic is famous for its powerful and even unbreakable magic barrier spells.

The《School of Assault Magic》 — The magic art of using mana to attack. The embodiment of offensive and assault magic. A master of assault magic for example can plummet the world with a rain of fireballs.

The《School of Alteration Magic》 — The most versatile out of all schools of magic. Affecting the world by altering the laws of matter. The most common spell is transmute, the ability to turn copper to gold and shaping materials to any kind of form.

The《School of Miracle & Blessing Magic》 — This form of magic is only granted to the followers of Maria through her blessings; Allowing even the most half-baked person to wield magic, as long as they are devout enough to Maria’s guidance.

The《School of Wits Magic》 — The art of magic centered around the mind and sentient intelligence. Using mana to influence the mind and control information. The most common spell is Telepathy, mostly used for communication.

The《School of Enchantment Magic》 — The art of embedding mana to objects such as swords to increase their combat potential. And even non-combat items such as mirrors or other catalysts for communication across distance.

And last but not least.

The 《School of Alchemy》 — The art of brewing various herbs and other materials into drinkable potions with magic properties. These potions are usually used to transfer magic properties to other beings as aid or support.

To understand magic, one must be prepared to bear the heavy endeavor it will take. Since magic takes a lot of effort to understand, magicians practice and study to the tiniest detail to make sure the sounds they chant are absolutely correct and the magic runes they have to imagine are remembered vividly.

One slight mistake in the chant’s tone or the rune’s shape will result in heavy consequences. Mana going out of control results in a fiery explosion and might even endanger one’s life. For Magicians who specialize in combat, this becomes an even harder task in the heat of combat.

This makes a combat magician, the one who delves into either 《School of Aegis Magic》or《School of Assault Magic》or even both to be very sought after. Causing them to have both power and status in this new world. Therefore to not repeat the same mistake in my previous life, I will relentlessly pursue this path. Even if it means always gambling my life.

To standardize magic capability measurement, the《Association of Magicians》came up with a measurement system categorizing magic mastery into six levels. From lowest to the highest, they are:

Basic > Intermediate > Advanced > Master > Doctor > Supreme Doctor

It is said, each kingdom or country has about 3-5 Supreme Doctors serving them, demonstrating their superpowers and only utilizing them as a last resort.

 

Knock, knock…

 

「 Excuse me, Renald-sama. Your instructor has arrived. 」

「 Okay. Let him wait in the guest room. I’ll come soon. 」

「 Understood, Renald-sama. 」

And finally, the day has come, the day my magic instructor has arrived. No more will I get bored with nothing to do other than contemplating about life and reading books.

Feeling excited to learn magic, I immediately exited my room and went to the guest room, where my instructor is waiting. Upon arriving there, my “mother” and that instructor are sitting across from each other, with butler Drake standing next to her.

I was expecting a very stereotypical magician from your typical fantasy fiction stories; a skinny old man wearing a big pointy hat and baggy robe with a wooden staff. Instead, the instructor has a muscular body with slightly red skin and thick pitch black horns, a Rengda. One of the many non-human races in this world.

「 Good afternoon, young lord. The name’s Kalish. 」

「 Good afternoon, Kalish. You don’t need to call me ‘young lord’, just call me by my name, Renald. 」

「 It’s an honor to be able to call you by your name, Renald-sama. 」

「 Son… Are you sure you still want to be trained by this Adventurer instead of an official Magician? 」

「 What’s wrong, mother? 」

「 I’ve talked with this man before you arrived. Not only is he a Rengda, but he also doesn’t even have any advanced magic capabilities. How could I let this imposter teach my son magic? 」

She has somehow become quite talkative… Strange, is it more because he’s a commoner or the fact that he’s a Rengda? Seems like racism is rampant in this world. Well, it’s not like my previous world did not have it either.

「 Excuse me, lady. Although it is true I do not have any advanced magic capabilities, I’m very confident in my skills in teaching your son the basics of magic and strength training. It might be improper to say this, but your son is quite skinny and in dire need to grow some muscles.

「 What type of magic do you want to learn, Renald-sama? 」

「 Preferably, Aegis and Assault Magic. 」

「 That’s perfect. I have Intermediate capabilities at both schools of magic. With my vast amount of combat experience, achieving your goals in learning magics, especially the combat variant would be as easy as baking an apple pie. 」

To be honest, I’m quite skeptical about this man. I mean, to learn magic, shouldn’t you learn from the masters itself? But he does have a point regarding combat and he clearly knows how to sell himself.

「 Okay, that’s great. Butler Drake, have you discussed his compensation for training me? 」

「 Kalish will provide Renald-sama training every day, for half a day. And every week he will be paid two silver coins. 」

Two silver coins? That’s enough to support a peasant family with four members for two weeks. If that’s the price just for learning basic magics, how much would higher tier magic education cost? No wonder there are very few magicians.

「 Can we start now, Kalish? 」

「 I’m ready anytime, Renald-sama. 」

「 Renald, can we please talk a bit just the two of us? Before you start training. 」

Why does she want to speak alone with me? She barely even talked to me after my transmigration. Why now?

「 Sureee Mother…  Butler Drake, accompany Kalish to the courtyard. I will go there as soon as I’m done with my mother. 」

「 Understood. Now if you excuse me Kalish, please follow me. 」

「 Sure thing. 」

After that, they left the room. I was finally able to sit across her. Her eyes looking downward, and her fingers fidgeting. Seeing how nervous she was, I took my time drinking the herb tea that was provided on the coffee table between me and my mother.

The tea interestingly is red, unlike the brown or green tea I’ve known of. Must be due to the leaves and other fancy herbs that have been put into it. And similar to its color, rather than slight bitterness taste, it has a spicy feel on it. Fragrant too, as my mind drifts with the excitement of my soon to come magic endeavor. If I remember correctly this is a luxury item since they have to import it from a place far away across the ocean.

When I had almost finished drinking my tea, my mother starts talking.

「 I-I’ve been a bad mother haven’t I? 」

Well… This is unexpected. I thought she’s going to tell me to be careful or whatever as a typical overprotective parent would. Noticing how this conversation might be serious, I finish my cup and put it down.

「 What do you mean mother? 」

「 Can you sit next to me first dear? 」

「 Okay. 」

Not wanting to delay my training much further, I began circling around the table. My movements are fast, yet somehow time seems to stretch out…

It was only until sitting beside her I was reminded that she is — although I refuse to think so — is in fact, my mother.

She hugs me right as soon as I sit beside her. Her warmth and pleasant fragrances force me to recall the time I first stumbled upon this world. But this time my mind drifts away and feels blissful, unlike the confusion and anxiety I felt before.

「 I’m sorry for being such a bad mother, Renald. 」

「 W-why are you like this mother? You did nothing wrong. 」

「 No, I did, and don’t you ever think otherwise! I’ve been neglecting you for a long time. Ever since that day. 」

If I have a familiar who has forgotten his or her memories and become a totally different person, I would probably act the same way as her.

「 Just because you were the polar opposite of Renald I knew, I’ve ignored you for a long time, thinking that my boy from before is gone — replaced with a completely different person. And now look at what happened to you.

You busied yourself in your room or in the library. Alone, without any person to support you, Renald. I’m so sorry for what I’ve done, son. 」

「 It’s fine, mother. I very much like it. 」

「 Look, there you go again. With how you call me, you don’t even consider me as your mother now do you? 」

This woman sure is quite perceptive. But what could I do? You’re not my real mother and I never even had a mother in the first place. Perhaps, due to her sensing my tension, she pulls away from me, her hands still on my shoulder.

We stared at each other, her eyes blue as clear as the sky, unlike what I’ve seen back on Earth. Her silky straight hair that reaches her neck is as blue as her eyes. Several minor freckles can be seen around her smooth face, miraculously adding womanly charm. It is at this moment I truly realized how I never put much thought and notice into this woman.

「 That’s why I want us to restart all over again. Learning what you love and hate, your hobbies, and much more. Let’s get to know each other, Renald. 」

「 Okay… 」

Without notice, she pecked my cheek. Sound included.

「 That’s my boy, now go to your magic training. You don’t want to leave that instructor waiting right? I still don’t like that instructor, but I’ll make an exception if he can make my boy into a fine Magician.

「 Let me know all the cool things you learned in your training, okay?  」

Heat starts creeping up around my cheek, as I cover the slightly moist spot with my hand.

「 Okay… Mother… 」

Feeling a little redemptious, I returned the favor to her. Her tomato face makes it all worth it.

「 Wh-what are you doing?! Hurry up and go! Idiot son. 」

She yells at me — failing to hide the tenderness in her voice.

「 Bye mother! 」

I wave my hands towards her as I ran towards the courtyard. True love? It only exists in the form of parental love.

In the courtyard, I saw Kalish doing warmups with what seemed to be his gear set on the floor tidily. Preparing for what’s to come soon.

「 Please begin the training, Kalish. 」

「 First thing, first. I just want to get this matter out of the way. My training will be hell and my behavior might offend you, will that be alright Renald-sama? 」

「 Huh? Yeah, go ahead. As long as it will make me master magic faster. 」

He then clears his throat and takes a deep breath. Why do I have a bad premonition on what’s about to happen…

「 From now on, I will address you as Renald, and you will address me as ‘Sir’. Understood?!  」

「 Understood. 」

「 You will end every last sentence with ‘Sir’. Say it again. 」

「 Understood, Sir. 」

「 Louder! Your small voice is proof that nobles are soft pussies! 」

「 Understood, Sir!! 」

「 Not bad, for a spoiled brat. Let’s go for a run to the forest! three miles up three miles down. What do you say?!」

Is this really how you were supposed to learn magic?

「 Yes, Sir! 」

「 Let’s go! If you fall behind, we’ll run another three miles! 」

And so, me and my instructor… or should I say drill sergeant starts running.

Did I bring this upon myself? How did wanting to learn magic lead to me getting yelled at by a damn drill sergeant?

Ah, Whatever. Maybe with this, I’ll pass out to the point nightmares won’t come out anymore. But this shit still better be damn worth it.

 

Previous Chapter — Next Chapter

LOTA CH2 — Disoriented Start

「 Oh, dear Renald… How could this happen to you… 」

It is at this moment, I hear a mysterious female voice. The voice sounds quite soothing, yet sobbings could be heard through the suppressed sound of hiccups. I couldn’t really hear what she’s saying but it is as if it’s directed towards me, desperately calling me. Why am I hearing a woman’s voice? Unconsciously, I open my eyes. The scene which greets me was out of place.

Upon waking, I found myself burrowed in a soft, warm sheet. The roof is made with what seems to be fancy marble common in luxurious residences. The freshness of the air, which contrasts with the once sour air, forces me to fully awake as I start to raise my body. On the left side of the bed, a woman with what seems to be in her mid-30s is looking at me with her watery eyes; tears flowing down her otherwise beautiful cheek.

「 Bless the goddess Maria! You are awake! 」

In a flash, her arms wrap around my shoulder as she pulls me closer. Her warmth feels comfortable yet unfamiliar.

「 When the maid carried you over to your bed, and the butler Drake told me you fell off a tree; I became so worried. 」

She tightens her hug and sobs even louder. Who is this woman? Where am I? Why is she hugging me? How is it possible I’m still able to breathe and think?! When seconds before, the excruciating tight pain surrounded my neck was the only thing I could think of. Now, a crying stranger is hugging me as if I’m her most loved one.

「 Who… Who are you…? W-where am I? 」

She stops tightening her arms as she pulls away.

「 Oh dear goddess, a-are you okay my baby? 」

I stare into her eyes, tears still dripping on her cheek. Oh god, why is she crying? Is she crying over my failed suicide attempt? But why is she calling me her baby?!

Silence remains, with only her sobbing echoing through the room. Perhaps, from sensing my clueless expression, she tries to breathe in more in the midst of her hiccups.

「 It’s me Renald, your mother. How could you even forget your own mother?! Oh, dear goddess are you really okay?! 」

What the heck, who’s Renald? My name is Yoshinobu Ryo. What’s going on?! Am I dreaming? Am I in another person’s body?

「 I can’t believe this. I’m so sorry but I-I… 」

She jumps away from me and with her hands lifting her skirt, she runs away.

BAAMM!!

The door shut closed. With the sound of the sharp steps fading away.

What happens with my suicide attempt? How am I still alive? And she’s my mother? Did she mistake me for his son, Renald? I need to figure out where exactly I am.

I get off the bed as I plant my foot on the floor, I noticed it is covered with smooth carpet. I stood up and felt my body composition feeling weird and unfamiliar; as if I became much smaller. Noticing there’s something wrong with my body, I worriedly looked through a mirror near the bed encased in an artistically carved wooden frame. The reflection it gave to me is a young teenage boy with an innocent babyface. Short blue hair with black eyes.

This can’t be… I-I can’t believe this. No, I refuse to believe this.

I shove my hands all over my body as I looked into the mirror. My movement and senses were aligned perfectly with the reflection.

Unless this mirror is broken, the only assumption I could think of is that I really did move to another person’s body. And that person was that woman’s child, Renald. Which is now gone, somehow replaced by me.

Fuck… Wasn’t I supposed to be dead?! Hanging by the rope or buried down in a coffin with my family crying over my suicide?! How the hell did I somehow possess a child’s body?! Not only that, what’s with this weird blue hair?!

Is this some kind of a sick joke from God?! After all the things I did to commit suicide, God wants me to continue my suffering?! Why the hell did I try so hard to kill myself then?! Just let me die already, goddammit.

So, hell or heaven doesn’t exist? Only reincarnation?! But how the fuck did I reincarnate to a boy?! Why do I still have memories from my past life?! Didn’t the Buddhists believe in complete reincarnation?! Ahhh…. I wish somebody would just explain what the hell is going on!

 

Craack…

 

The door behind me opens with its hinges letting out a small but noticeable squeaky noise, forcing me to stop my thoughts.

「 Renald-sama. It seems that you’ve awakened already. 」

I turn my back and see a man wearing a black suit like a typical butler, bowing fully. His hair and his trimmed beard were white. His black eyes were rather sharp, but what I feel is respect and a gentle attitude towards me.

「 Excuse me, but w-who are you…? It looks like I’ve lost my… my m-memories… 」

I tell him deliberately that I have forgotten my memories. I can’t let them know that the child they used to know is instead replaced with a stranger.

「 Indeed… Looks like Lady Heva-sama’s concern was true. 」

「 Lady Heva-sama… Is she… Is she my mother? 」

「 Heva Alderhide, the wife of the great Earl Falben Alderhide. Please don’t call her Lady Heva-sama. She’s your mother and should be treated like that. 」

That woman is my mother? And her husband or ‘my father’ is an Earl? Am I in the middle age time period?

「 I’m butler Drake, assigned by your father Earl Falben Alderhide to take great care of you and Lady Heva-sama.

「 I know everything is confusing for you right now. I’ve already dispatched the maids to prepare a carriage. Now, let’s go to the carriage, Renald-sama. 」

He extended his hands towards me and so I held it as we walk out of the room. I have no idea where we are going, but I need to follow along to not raise any suspicion.

Shortly afterward, we got outside the building we were in before. As we walk, I saw a heavily decorated carriage with the most noticeable sign is a roaring lion. And besides the carriage, there are two women wearing black and white clothing — the very image of a maid.

Butler Drake opened the door and offered his hand again to help me get into the carriage. I reached it and leaped my body to the carriage.

「 Go to Saint Brastow Cathedral. 」

「 Yes sir. 」

The butler then went inside the carriage, sitting across me.

 

HIYAA! Followed by a crack; The horse neighs as the carriage starts to move.

 

「 We are going to Saint Brastow Cathedral, Renald-sama. Hopefully, the priest’s blessing will help you recover your memories. Do you have any questions while we are on our way, Renald-sama? 」

Strange, I thought. Why go to a priest instead of a doctor to recover my memories? From the looks of it, perhaps I went back to history, where scientific thinking is still a foreign concept. The usage of carriage and horses further proves this. At this point, I just hope the priest won’t think of me as a demon possessing someone’s child.

「 My name is R-ronald… Is… that correct? 」

「 Your name is Renald Alderhide. Please remember your name, Renald-sama. 」

「 Where am I…? By that, I mean… the city or the place we are currently in. 」

「 We are in the Kingdom Veinard, Count of Alderhide, in the City of Quondartz. You really did forget your memory and even who you are, Renald-Sama. 」

What?! Kingdom Veinard?! I’ve never heard about that kingdom before. And I’ve studied a bit of history back in my first year of college. Where exactly am I?! Not only that, Count Alderhide? According to the middle age time period, then that means I’m in a noble family.

「 I’m sorry… How was I before I lost my memory? 」

「 You used to be a very energetic kid, simple-minded and short-tempered. Instead of studying, you loved to explore the countryside and play around with your friends, who I believe are commoners. I remember there was a time when Lady Heva-sama shouted angrily to you because you skipped studying in favor of spending your time exploring the city.

「 You only started studying until your mother agreed to give you sweets if you pass her test. A stark contrast to you right now, who I observed to be quite mature and relax-mannered. 」

「 Seeing how you were able to tell how different I am from myself in the past… How can you still be calm about this, unlike my mother? 」

「 As a butler of the Alderhide family, it is my duty and responsibility to stay calm regardless of the situation. Although this might offend Lady Heva-sama, I find you right now to be much better than before. Very fitting to bear the name of Alderhide. 」

「 This reminds me. Am I a noble…? 」

「 Yes, you are. You are the son of the great Earl Falben Alderhide. 」

「 Do I… have… any siblings? 」

「 Yes. You are the youngest with three older brothers and two older sisters. 」

Oh great, looks like I’m in the era where feudalism and nobility still exist. With five older siblings, my chances of inheriting the land, and wealth that goes along with it are very minuscule. But then again, it’s not like it matters right now anyway if I can’t figure out what exactly is going on.

「 How about… my… my mother? Is she fine? 」

「 Lady Heva-sama is still grieving about your lost memory — fearing the worst. I consoled her and suggested she let me check you in with the priest. 」

Not knowing what other topics to talk about, I lean my head to see the view outside the carriage window. Rows of houses and small buildings could be seen next to each other to form a straight line. In those buildings, there are numerous shops, from shops that sell fancy clothing, to a small open market with creative sign illustration.

Along with it, I could see all sorts of people walking around. Showcasing the livelihood and the city’s vibrant. This whole thing reminds me of the European early renaissance era aesthetics. Yet, everything is too pristine for this time period and paved stone roads seem to be quite common here. So even if the building’s aesthetics resemble early renaissance architecture, I can’t confidently say that I’m in the same time period. It just begs the question of where and when exactly am I.

「 Have you remembered anything about this city, Renald-sama? 」

「 Huh? Oh sadly, no. But I must say… this is a beautiful and lively city. 」

「 It is. Thanks to your eldest brother, Elric-sama, for clearing the forest southwest of the city out of wolves and beasts; merchants have an easier time coming to the city to trade. Thus, boosting the city’s economy. And also… 」

While listening to him talking, I realize there is something strange… Why are there a few people with horns and tails among the crowds?!

Is there some kind of Halloween festival going on? But I’m very sure people back then didn’t try to imitate devils or other weird creatures. Or perhaps this is another way for them to commemorate the festival of death, which is what is known as Halloween back then.

「 By the way… How could those people have horns and tails on them? 」

「 Oh dear goddess… You even don’t know that? 」

Who’s goddess are you talking about?!

「 So… are you going to explain or not…? 」

「 Oh yes… I’m terribly sorry for my rudeness, Renald-sama. Anyway, those people with thick pitch black horns are Rengda. While the one with horns but also has a tail is dragonkin. I hope that answers your question, Renald-sama. 」

What?! Dragonkin and Rengda?! Where exactly am I?! Oh dear god, the more I ask, the more questions I got in return.

While I was thinking about what sort of place I’m in with these weird people, the carriage stops and the door opens.

「 Excuse me, my Lord, we have arrived at the Saint Brastow Cathedral. 」

Outside, there’s a man who helmed the horses bowing deeply.

「 Let’s go, Renald-sama. 」

「 Okay. 」

And so I exited the carriage. The cathedral in front awes me with its humongous structure and its usage of what seems to be silvery marble. On the cathedral, lies numerous nine-sided stars, enneagram stars. Strange, it should’ve been a cross normally. There’s a religion with a deep emphasis on this kind of star?

With the accompaniment of butler Drake, we go inside the cathedral. The inside was rather dark with several streaks of light shining from the windows of the roof to illuminate the inside, giving off a serene atmosphere. Several people could be seen sitting in the rows of benches with their heads down and their hands joined flat together; others, in contrast, are standing up with their heads up and their arms open. Hushed whispers filling this place.

In the midst of praying, a single person stood out the most. A shaved old man wearing a white robe. The front of the robe has an enneagram star emblem on it. In his left hand is a white wooden staff, with another enneagram star emblem on the tip.

With so many occurrences of enneagram stars around here, it must have a big meaning in this religion. However, throughout my study, there was no mention of religion with a deep emphasis on this emblem. Great, another key element that I don’t know which would have hinted to me on what time period I’m in.

「 Excuse me, priest. I implore you to check the son of Alderhide with Her goddess, Maria’s blessings. He fell off a tree and went unconscious, as soon as he woke up, he could not recall any memories. 」

「 Oh dear goddess, that sounds terrible… Come closer to me, my child. This goddess servant will impart Maria’s blessings onto you. 」

I come closer to the priest. Hoping, whatever happens, will not result in anything unsavory. At first, I thought he would only say some prayers or make me partake in some strange religious ritual. But instead, he makes unseen-before hand gestures as he says:

「 Wrap thee in cotton…
Bind thee in love…
Protection from pain and all things evil…
Impart thee with Maria’s Blessing;
『 Sanitatem 』」

Circled runes with complex symbols and patterns sprung out of his hand as lights flickered around towards me. As amazed I was, I just stood frozenly. My eyes focused on this never-seen phenomenon. When all of the lights are fully dispersed, I can feel much more calm and peaceful. All of my wandering thoughts seem to vanish instantly.

「 Now, my child. Have you remembered your memories? 」

「 I don’t really feel any difference… other than me feeling calm and peaceful. And I certainly don’t remember any memories… 」

「 That’s odd… But then there’s nothing more this goddess servant could do… Perhaps, this is what our goddess, Maria, intended from the beginning. 」

「 Priest, Please… 」

At this moment, I wasn’t paying attention to any of the conversations between the priest and butler Drake. All the weird and different things that I’ve experienced so far made me come up with a revelation. That, perhaps, I’ve unknowingly transmigrated to a whole new different world…

 

Please support the story by posting any comment, feedback, or opinion of this story! — KyoruS

Previous Chapter — Next Chapter

LOTA CH1 — Bitter End To a New Beginning ♡♡♡

This chapter contains NTR. It plays a huge role and/or event in shaping the MC personality. I hope all of you readers are still willing to give it a shot. However, if you are still reluctant to read it, feel free to skip this chapter. Just be mindful how MC’s betrayal lead him to be reincarnated to another world. Without further ado thanks for giving my story a shot and I hope what I write interest and entertain you. — KyoruS

 

Here I am in a dark, gloomy bedroom. A place is known for what it formerly was. There’s nothing special about this place, mind you. It had your standard king-size bed, a wardrobe, and a mirrored desk for applying makeup. It used to have a special place in my heart. Before, it was a place where I shared passionate love with a person dearest to my heart and a place to share warmth with my wife.

But now, all this room emanates is neither joy nor sorrow. For what I remember is only the bitter taste of betrayal and deep hatred.

It was a week ago, precisely in this room that I discovered something out of my wildest dream. I was done with my work earlier than usual, something about my manager thinking I should spend more time with my wife and how I deserve to go home earlier for a wonderful job I did in our company’s massive engineering project. So I did just that. Instead of the usual time at 8 pm, I came back home at 5 pm.

I was walking back home after I took the subway train, happy with the fact I have more time to spend with my wife. It’s been a long time since we had sex, I thought. Somehow becoming eager to have sex as if I transmigrated back to my horny teenage days. When our house was on the horizon, I noticed there was an unknown premium car in front of it. So I ran towards the house with a bad premonition on what’s about to happen, refusing to believe whatever it is I’m thinking of.

I got in front of the house door and when I almost rang the bell.

「 Aaaahh…. Yes, master, it feels good master~ 」

My mind immediately exploded. Sweet moans that should’ve only been heard and meant for me are directed towards another person. I went around the house, desperately trying to find a window that could give me a glimpse of what was happening. I looked through the window of our bedroom. And there she was: her jet black hair that should’ve flown down her waist were messy and jumbled in another man’s hand. Her usual sweet smile on her charmingly defined v-shaped face was now curved into a ravenous grin, never shown to me before. Her proper breasts free in the air; one of them tainted with another man’s hand.

「 Aaaahh…. Please more, master. I’ve been waiting for you like a good girl~ 」

「 That’s my good girl. Where was that pathetic husband of yours anyway? Still can’t believe that man got such a fine ass like you. 」

「 Master~~ my husband at this time is still at work as always. Aahh… You’re so good to me master, better than my husband ♡ 」

At that time, I paid no attention to the man. I had tunnel vision and focused solely on my wife’s body that was being ravished by another man. Questions began flowing to my brain as if god struck a lightning bolt at me. “What did I do to deserve this?” “Am I not good enough for my wife?” “Was I not paying enough attention to my wife?”. My thoughts wandered endlessly but the nightmare still hasn’t stopped. And so like the idiot I was. I watched till the end. And I recorded it.

「 Ohh fuck… Who cares about your husband anyway. Yeah bitch, I’m gonna cum soon. Do you want it inside or in your slutty face?! 」

「 Whatever you want master~ My body is yours as you please~ 」

「 That’s my good girl. I’m going to cum inside like the dirty cheating wife you are. 」

「 Yes master! I’m going to cum soon too. Please master~ I want your cum inside~ 」

「 AHHHHH… 」

「 AHHHH… 」

That man and my treacherous wife came at the same time, their bodies laying on top of one another in the bed. Out of breath, feeling blissful of the aftermath of their lust towards one another. Seeing that scene, at first, I thought that maybe what they were doing was purely out of lust, with how synchronized they were in sex and how compatible they are, as if they are one being. It still heavily saddens me but it gave me a bit of a silver lining out of this unthinkable situation. That, they are only doing it just out of pure lust and without true love — Oh, how wrong I was.

「 Ahh… That was so good sweetie. I hope I wasn’t too rough on you. 」

「 Ohh honey, I was the one who suggested to roleplay and demanded you to be rough. How was it by the way? Do you like it? 」

「 Yeah, of course, that was so hot, Karin. I love you so much. 」

「 I love you too. 」

Then while their bodies are on top of one another, they kiss lovingly. Their kisses were slow and in rhythm. It was a passionate one, not out of lust but love.

「 Thank you so much for coming as always. Ohh how I wish I could divorce that man and marry you right now. 」

「 I need more time sweetie. In a few more weeks, after I got my business project up and running I would be able to marry you and give you more happiness than that man would. 」

「 I know honey, we’ve talked about this. I just could not wait to start living with you. 」

「 Me too dear. I should get going now, that man could come home any time soon. 」

「 Okay honey, let’s clean up first. 」

They kissed a bit more and started to clean up. I stopped my recording and got away from the window and just ran away to nowhere. I ran and ran, praying to god that what I experienced was just a nightmare. I wanted to scream just to let out all of my frustration and sadness but I knew if I did it, I might be discovered by them. At that point, I didn’t know what I was supposed to do. All I knew was that. Life was not like it was supposed to be after this.

I stop reminiscing about the past, tears dripping unknowingly as if these tears contained the memories and the false truth; leaving out of my body. I then focus my attention back on this room where the deed happened. I sit down in front of the makeup desk with the mirror on it. The desk used to have a picture of my wife and me on that fateful day. She wears a magnificent white gown, capable of radiating her beauty to the fullest. I still remember her face and expression when we exchanged our vows,

 

“To have and to hold, from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health. To love and cherish till death do us part.” 

 

She then smiled widely and her eyes became watery as if nothing else could make her happier. Bullshit, I thought. Now, that picture was nowhere to be found. That woman might have removed it already.

How did it come down to this? I might not be the best husband but I was sure that I tried my best for both of our happiness. She dreamed of a beautiful house in a wonderful neighborhood near her favorite cafe, so I worked hard in my job; taking extra work so I could bear the heavy house mortgage. She dreamed of traveling around the world experiencing the many wonders it could offer, so I stayed at work late at night to have longer vacation days upon my reserves. I just wished she told me about her problems or whatever I did that would lead her to cheat on me. But that doesn’t matter anymore. It’s already too late.

To think, she wanted a divorce after all of the things I did just for her, without even the thought of telling me that our marriage is falling apart.

To think, she will tell me about committing adultery and demand divorce in the future out of nowhere and leave my life behind with the debts I took to make her happy in return.

I watched the recording again and saw her wonderful smile towards a man that is not me as she casually mentioned the cursed word ‘divorce’. As if those previous vows that meant everything to me, meant nothing to her. And so, with deep hatred and grief, I reminded myself of my first intention of coming to this room. Which was to make sure our vows will still be in place and her divorce won’t be necessary. Committing suicide.

 

“To love and cherish till death do us part.”

 

I’ve been preparing for this since I found out about her adultery. It was only today I was able to do so. Apparently, that woman is going to stay over at her parents’ house for several days, saying that her parents need help to move out from their old place to her brother’s place. From what I know, it could’ve been an excuse just so that women can fuck that other man; they even might be doing it at this very moment. But thanks to that, I had the time to contemplate what I’m about to do.

I leave a note behind on the desk. Written on it is the reason why I committed suicide and my deep condolences to my family and friends. I also made sure to leave recordings behind that will be automatically sent later after my death to my parents and that woman’s parents, so nobody will be on that treacherous woman’s side.

In the darkroom, I tried finding the ceiling light’s hook which hung in the center of the room before placing a chair underneath it and climbing on top of it.

I attach the rope with the noose falling down to the ceiling light hook and insert my neck into the noose; feeling its rough surface on my hands. Slight hesitation strikes me, thinking about the family and friends I’m going to leave behind. However, it was soon replaced with mocking imagery of that woman.

 

I kick the chair.

 

I Can’t Breathe.

 

Fuck. It hurts. So much.

 

Make. It. Stop.

 

HELP.

 

I. Need. To. Get. Out. Of. This. Noose.

 

Let. Me. Out.

 

Make. It. Stop.

 

IT HURTS. SO MUCH.

 

Fuck.

 

This.

 

Shitty.

 

World…

 


 

(3rd POV, Narrator)

In a whole different dimension, out of the senses of any sentient beings. Two divine beings come together to discuss something that will shape and change the fate of many worlds.

「 One of my worlds was saved from the unstable demonic powers, thanks to the reincarnators from your world. I must say, bringing reincarnators from other worlds is a much more interesting approach than simply altering the world’s fate directly. 」

「 Of course it is my pleasure. It was also thanks to the sentient beings from your world that my world’s technological advances leaped drastically. To the point my inhabitants think it was a miracle for technologies to advance that fast.

Technology used to be expensive and less powerful. Now it is much cheaper, more widely available, and more powerful. The advances were so fast that the majority of the inhabitants believed the world they are currently living in is just a simulation, and in the near future they would come up with their own simulation device.

A far cry from one of your worlds where everybody in that world doesn’t need to come up with technologies thanks to the mana energy embedded in every being. 」

「 Still, your world is quite unique. Without the help of any deities and mana energy, they can still come up with ways to survive and bend their world to meet their needs. Creating inventions through their imaginations and understanding of their world.

It is no wonder that the reincarnators from your world are more creative and interesting compared to the beings from my many worlds. 」

「 So, will there be any soul exchange as always? I have a sentient being who I wished can be given a second opportunity in your world. Its potential is not fully realized in my world. 」

「 Huh… As always, you indirectly care about your world inhabitants huh? One of my worlds is going to experience turmoil anyway. Many lives will come to an end. And that soul of yours could solve it. 」

「 You sure like to send my inhabitants reincarnations towards one of your many worlds. Why not alter the world’s fate directly this time? 」

「 Why would I? As if you would do the same in your world. Life will always have its ups and downs, which makes it much more interesting to see and experience. Besides I can see the soul that you offered does have potential, having divine characteristics despite coming from your world. What a shame. 」

「 Just keep an eye on this fellow alright? It had bad luck in its past lives, which I should’ve stepped in to prevent. But I wasn’t able to do so. 」

「 Don’t worry, I’ll make sure to alter its fate just a tiny bit at the beginning to ensure its journey in the new world will be smooth. Heck, I’ll even chip in a unique ability that fits its divine character. How about that? It was about time that the world of mine needed some spice going on. 」

「 Alright, that’s good enough. From time to time I will have my eyes on its journey too. It will be interesting to see its development. 」

「 Of course. Then, I’ll immediately start the soul’s transmigration. 」

And so, a soul; out of pure luck and under the watch of divine beings, escaped the cycle of life to be transmigrated to another world.

 

Next Chapter

Lord of the Ancient (古代の主) — Synopsis

Does true love even exist anymore?

I devoted everything to her, she was the pearl in my palm, I would even sacrifice my life for her. Everything I did, I did for her love. To meet her expectations yet…what awaited me was the cruelest of betrayals.

Was I wrong?

All I asked was to be accepted to have my feeling reciprocated. Is that too much to ask for?

There is nothing left for me in this world, all that I’ve given can never be returned. That’s why…it’s better to just abandon it all.

Maybe the next time I open my eyes, a better world awaits.

『 Ṃ̸̢̥͂͌͗̈́̈̾̅̈́̚a̵̤͕̮̟̜̙͕͓̲̱̭̭͆͒̓͗̋̆̃̓͛̑̊̆ş̸͇͇̘̱̣̟̬͖͕͙̩̔̅̆̏̆͘͝ͅt̶̢̛̛͕̜͉̘͙̙̺͙̖̠͒̔́͊͒̅̄̋̈́̄͛̔͝ͅe̸̻̩͗̔͛͐́̂̕͠r̷̟̪̜̪͇̖̒̊͛̀̈͋̚,̷̡̢͍̥͚͊̓̍̄̒̑͌̈́̌̎͘͘̚̕͝ ̶̡̡̗͕̮̱͈̯̬͖͓̀̃͆̓̈́̃̆̚͘͘I̸̫̓̍̔̍͒̕ ̴͙̏̾̌͒͑͘͝͝͠w̸̢̙̳̜̯̳̯̬̳͕͚̠̻͉̒̈́̉̐́̿̕̕͜ȋ̶͈͉͇̭̲̲͓̬̰̝͓̄͜l̸̛̛̮̳̿̓̓̈́́͊́̍̕͝l̴͉͖̣̠͕͎͒̇̌͑͂̄͗̓͠ ̶̧̝͕͖͎̪̬͉̞̞̮̜̼̓̋͊͊͜͜ņ̴̙̤͔͖̇̓̉̅ͅê̴̬̼͜v̸͙͉̏̀̈̔̎̃̃́͛͝e̸̢̫͚̭̱͕̠̠͎̥̤͇͒́͐͂͛̎̆̈́̒̕̕͝r̷̢̝̹̥̫̤͇̙̟̗̗̯̩̦̥͌̌̂͒̊͛̌̍̇̊͘͘̕ ̷̧̡͈͉̦̣̽͌̈́̓̎̔͂͝ä̷̫͕̦̭̤̔̾̓̿̚b̵͎̟̝̺͙̱̫͇͗̈́͒ā̶̠̹̼͓̱͚̲̝̉̍̐̕͠͝n̴̢̹̞̫̱̬̭̖̫̟͍͆͗͋̋͋͊d̵̰͂̀̉̑̾o̸̬̽͌̒̈̽͗͝͝n̷̖̭̫̠̑̂͛̋͛̈́ ̶̢̧̩̼͎̦͙̳̾̋̑̉̌̚y̴̛̮̙̥̒̋̾͆̆̄̍̀͑̑̚͝ỏ̷̤̪̬̔̾̌̑̍́̏̅̊̚̚͝u̵̢͕̹̲̮̮̳͕̟̼̪̅̀̓̇̇͋̓̈́̿͝ 』

 

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Get early access chapters in Patreon: https://patreon.com/kyorus

Genre

Action, Adult, Adventure, Drama, Fantasy, Harem, Isekai, Psychological, Romance, Smut

Tags

Aristocrats, BDSM, Betrayal, Depression, Inferiority Complex, Loyal Subordinates, Master-Servant Relationship, R-18, Slaves, Strong Love Interests, Summoning Magic

 

Table of Content

First Arc – Disheartening Arc

Second Arc – Palliative Arc

Chapter 9 – Lady Sierra of Sercenasse

*Clang*Clang*…..*Clang*Clang*Clang*….*Screech*…..*Clang*

Jay stepped back, breathing heavily, “Come on, go easy on me…” His face was full of sweat, so was his body. His white t-shirt was stuck to his body because it was wet.

Emily stopped slashing her blunt sword at him, “You are better than I thought…”

“Yeah…Hah…Quick Learner…me…” Jay said, trying to put words together to make a sentence.

Emily walked closer to him, her long ashen hair waving with every step. Her bright blue eyes stared at him – her thin fingers touching his body, “I still can’t get used to that body of yours…It’s so good.”

Although Jay knew the context was completely different – He still said, “Sexual Harassment much?”

She took the little mass that she could get near his abdomen, pinching it, “don’t push it!”

“Ouch! Ok! Hurt!!” Jay stumbled back a few steps, falling on his butt. He lay down on the floor, his head fell on something soft, and it smelled good. A moan resounded from the body beneath him.

“Ughhh…leave me alone…I’m tired…” Jay heard the thing beneath him speak.

Emily rubbed her forehead, “the two of you…” Her eyes fell on Vivian, lying on the floor. She was wearing some clothes that Jay had with him. It made her wonder why he even had those. But they were tight, something he called (sexy) yoga suit.

Although they were a bit exposing, tight, but from what she saw, they were really comfortable.

She even planned on asking for one, if possible.

Emily tapped Jay’s abdomen with the blunt sword, “get up – there is much training left to do.”

Jay yawned, “I am a Physician – why do I have to do this?”

“Because you are gifted, it would be a waste to not train with that body of yours.”

Jay raised his hand, staring at his palm, “I feel stronger – how does this work?”

Emily raised her eyebrows, “You don’t know?” She didn’t wait for him to answer and walked towards the only cabinet in this nearly empty room.

She pulled open a drawer, taking out a card.

Walking back, she threw it at him, “put your blood on it…”

Jay stared at the card in all seriousness, watching Emily’s sharp observing eyes. He put his blood on it, “Ok?”

Shortly, information appeared on it.

 

Name – [] It was blank since Jay didn’t fill it.

Race – Human

Occupation – ??? (None)

Level – 10

Strength – 110

Agility – 110

Stamina – 110

Magic – 10

 

Skills – None

Special Skills – ???

 

At the same time, the system interface popped up.

# Stats have been updated.

 

The sudden change made him blink blankly, but Emily snatched it away from him.

She turned it, watching, “Ohh…I was sure you weren’t human…but those stats explain it.”

She soon knit brows, “You really are special.”

“Why do you say that?” Jay asked. He thought it might be because of skills that weren’t showing.

But it was different, “All four of your stats increase with every level you gain.”

“He does what?!!” Vivian nearly jumped up, making Jay’s head get struck against the ground, “Damn!!!”

Vivian stared at him before snatching the card from Emily, “How is that possible!!”

Jay yawned, adjusting himself to fall asleep on this comfortable floor. As a Hero, he had seen thousands of people getting shocked by his absurdness. It was getting boring now.

“This is not fair!!!” Vivian shouted.

“What’s the big deal?” Jay muttered.

Vivian pointed at herself, “People only get two stat points with every level up!!! And it depends on what kind of training helped in leveling us up. How the points are assigned!! But you get an increase in all four!! You even have magic.”

“Pitiful Magic.” Emily corrected. It was as if she was trying to hit him down.

“Oh, Cool.” Jay took the card back, putting it in his pocket. “Well, my training is over – I am going to ogle at Dames.”

Emily held his collar from behind, pulling him back, “we are not done with your training!”

“Nooooo!!!!” Jay sulked, shouting in defiance.

Suddenly he ducked, dodging the blunt sword that missed him by an inch, “than Die.”

Jay pushed Vivian in front, using her as a shield, “No way!! I have important work to do!!!”

Vivian struggled to get free, “Other than playing with that little maid of yours!! What do you have to do?!!”

“Laze around, of course!!!” Jay dodged Emily’s strikes.

“You Dog!!!” Vivian shouted when the sword hit her. Jay pushed her at Emily, running out of the room.

After running outside, mansion, he finally let out a breath, “that woman is crazy!!”

He went and sat down on the bench, watching the dames train, their breasts shaking, sweating bodies, “Yeah…much better.”

 

Like every other ordinary day, after ogling the dames. Jay went to the office to work with Emily. But, today, Lam was sitting on the main seat.

Jay greeted him with a warm smile, “Lord Lam.”

“Mr. Jay, please have a seat.” He said, pointing at the chair on the left of the table. While Emily was silently sitting on the right side.

Jay took a book from shelves and silently sat there reading it. After a while, Lam Egerton spoke, “Mr. Jay, are you comfortable here?”

“Yeah? It’s better than being in the town…I hate the smell, so I never stay long in one place.”

“Haha…I understand – commoners have no sense of neatness. They could be like that.”

Jay curled his lips, “Yeah…”

Lam Egerton coughed, “So? Did you like any maid? There are some beautiful ones.”

“Hmm…not really. I like watching the dames train, though.”

“Haha, yeah, that is a hobby many nobles have,” Lam said, rubbing his short white beard.

“If you are looking for a partner to relieve stress, how about Emily?”

Jay blinked at the straightforward approach, “Your wife?”

Emily’s pen faltered for a moment, but she continued writing as if her husband wasn’t talking about her.

“Yes, As you know, being old, I can’t satisfy her. But she has a voracious sexual hunger. She would love to be your partner.”

“Uhhh…” Jay’s eyes darted between Lam and Emily, who didn’t react.

Lam waved his hand, “if you have some reservation, then don’t – Emily can’t stop talking about you. She has talked about it so many times…Right, Emily?”

“Yes, Dear…” Emily glanced at Jay shyly, “I would love to be his partner if Jay doesn’t mind it.”

She pulled down her gown a little, letting more of her cleavage show. It made Jay wonder if it would fall off the next moment.

Jay stood up, “I am flattered…but I am not sure. I am comfortable with this.” He darted out of the room, but after a few moments, he tiptoed back.

“Why haven’t you slept with him yet?”

“He’s slippery, Dear…” Emily said in a soft-spoken voice.

“My health is worsening – I think he’s not curing me properly! Ask him!!”

“But Dear…I can’t be brazen?”

Suddenly, there were sounds of things falling, “I don’t care if you walk naked in the house!!! I want to get better!!! *Cough*Cough* Make him talk!!”

“Yes…”

 

The next day was different because the first of Vivian’s sisters reached Egerton’s mansion.

“You could have mentioned she is an elf?” Jay said, observing the woman in front of him while she scanned every part of his body with her eyes.

Woman, No, maybe he should call her a girl. She was petite, dark-skinned, hazel-colored eyes. Wearing a white sundress and without slippers or shoes. Yet, her feet were clean and clear, with not a speck of dust on her body.

The most eye-catching thing was those elven pointy ears on her head.

“So it was you…who took Lil Vivian’s first.”

“Big sis!!” Vivian shouted with a blushing face. But completely ignoring her, the little girl held put her hands between his legs, “Hmm…I see you are packing something good.”

Trembling, Jay took a few tens of step back, “Look, Ms. Creepy Girl, Lady, whatever you are. Can you not molest me?”

Vivian’s sister sighed, “Oh, you humans…You should be more like us, Elves.”

“What does that mean?” Suddenly, her words caught Jay’s interest.

The little girl blinked, “You don’t know?”

“Know what?”

“Elves are famous for roaming around their villages naked. They are free-spirited, so they have many partners and rarely settle down with one. If someone gets pregnant, then after the birth, Mother has a choice, giving her choice to the Elven Royal Court for grooming, or nature herself.” A third voice gave the explanation.

Jay glanced back at Emily, walking over as she explained.

“It’s a mother’s choice if she wants the father to be a part of child’s life or not. Sometimes when the mother gives up her claim to the child, the fathers can claim them.” The little girl spoke. She looked at Jay suspiciously, “But this is common knowledge.”

Vivian took Jay’s arm, “Oh! He is always so busy, and he hates going out in town. So, Jay is missing a bit of common sense.” Jay smiled wryly, rubbing the back of his head.

The little girl looked even more suspicious, but Emily interrupted her thought, “Please, Lady Sierra of the Sercenasse Village. You are most welcomed in the Noble house of Egertons.”

Emily bowed in front of her, inviting her inside.

Chapter 3 – Vivian

The next morning, Jay sat on the chair, reading an old book. It was a book on magic and told about how to cast the spells, but there was nothing on how to master magical energy.

It was something he already expected – it must be a knowledge that the magicians guarded with all their might.

Agnessa didn’t exactly have too much power, despite being the Duchess. Even though he was sure she’d make her move and try to kill him, but before that, she would try her best to make sure he wasn’t suspicious. Or all his demands were met to her best ability.

While he read, the town outside had started to bustle about.

The people were out on the road, ready for their everyday work. The miners had taken up their equipment, moving towards the hills in front of the town. The direction from where he and Agnessa came from was the forest – there were small hills and mountains in the opposite direction.

You had to cross them to reach the deeper area of the kingdom. These were the outskirts with only a few mining towns.

Paso Town was one of them, the closest to the criminal village.

 

*Knock*Knock*Knock*

“Come,” Jay said, closing the book. His eyes glanced towards the door – a young girl around his age stepped inside. She had blue hairs, blue eyes that were frightened even as she came. A smile appeared on Jay’s face – although he didn’t know how the magic worked in fallen worlds, he could feel it, the energy around the girl.

Well, there was also that teardrop face of hers, pink lips, and the vibrant, youthful vibe she was giving off. She was tall – around a hundred and seventy centimeters. Wearing a red-colored robe over a teal blue asymmetrical long dress.

She tightened her fist nervously, watching Jay’s eyes, closely watching her, seeing her squirm made Jay’s eyes narrowed in a smile. With a dress like that, he was expecting her to more mature.

Just as he stood up, the girl stumbled farther into the room. It was apparent she was pushed from behind. But she tightened her fist, even more, shivering.

Agnessa’s face popped up from behind her, “My Lord, this is Vivian – do you like her?”

Jay walked over near Vivian, even as he was a few inches away from her. He looked over at Agnessa’s grinning face, “Yeah, she’d do. Good Work.”

Agnessa clapped her hands, “thank you for the praise, My Lord. I am happy to be at your service.”

Agnessa left the room, closing the door behind her. But the smile on her face didn’t falter for a moment.

“Do you know why you are here?”

Vivian trembled, her blue eyes turning up to stare at him, “Yes, To Serve You, My Lord.”

Jay stared in her eyes, the defiant look that she wouldn’t lose herself no matter what. He walked back, taking up a book on magic, “teach me how to master magical energy.”

Vivian stared at him for a few moments, “what?”

Jay waved the book in his hand, “I want to become a magician – how do I do it?”

Vivian widened her eyes even more, “what?!!”

The first time Jay thought it was because she wasn’t expecting it. But the second time, he felt it might be something else.

“How did you become a magician?”

“I was born with magical powers, like all other magicians,” Vivian said, a little confused – this was supposed to be common sense.

“Oh, is that so,” Jay threw the book back on the table, sighing. If this was the rule this broken world followed, then the only system might help him get over it. But there was that Path has not been chosen thing.

As someone who had used the system before – he knew the system only reacted to actions, not words. Mostly.

He must have been lost in thought for a while. Because when he turned around, Vivian was sitting at the edge of the bed.

She stood up the moment he turned, even shifting to hide the few bed sheet. Trying to hide the fact that she sat down on the bed.

Jay sat down, taking the jug from the table, pouring some tea from himself and her, “Here, have some tea.”

Vivian was caught off guard again, “No need.”

“You will be here for a long time, have some. I need to ask you a few things you can’t keep standing up?”

Vivian hesitantly nodded, slowly moving to sit down on the chair in front of him. She held the cup with both her hands, taking a small sip, trying to taste for heat.

Finding it at the perfect heat, she chugged down the whole cup of tea in one go.

Jay refilled her cup after she slammed it down on the table.

“Thank you.”

Jay nodded, his eyes staring at her profile, “So, what is your story?”

Vivian shook her head, “it is nothing that would interest you, My Lord.”

Jay glanced at her before taking up a book that talked about knights and their training regimes.

He silently turned pages, reading at a steady rate. But even as he peacefully read, there was the sound of an impatient foot tapping.

Vivian rose up from her chair, “My Lord!”

“Yes.”

“Is there something you’d like me to do?”

Jay stopped, looking up, “I already asked you, what is your story?”

Vivian bit her lips – her breasts heaved up and down before she finally couldn’t take the way he was gazing at her.

She shouted, “I WAS BORN WITH MAGICAL POWERS – MY REAL PARENTS SOLD ME AWAY TO A WITCH BECAUSE OF THAT. SHE RAISED ME…” She sat down on the chair, her voice also became lower, remembering something, “I and the others grew up like sisters. Mother was really kind to us – she taught us everything she knew.”

She paused, “A few months back, she was killed by an assassin. None of us were strong enough to protect the tower from the mercenaries. We were scattered – I had been hiding in a nearby small town, practicing magic, hoping to become more powerful. Hoping to help my sisters and take back our tower. Also, find out who killed our mother and take revenge. Not long after that, there were wanted posters of my sisters and me.”

She bit her lips, looking down, “But yesterday, the Knights came, they brought me here to that woman. She dressed me up and told me to serve you in the best way I can. In return, she wouldn’t hand me to the nobles who put out a reward on my sisters and me.”

“Nobles?”

“They were the ones that hired mercenary, the nobles of Palmer Territory. It was where Mother magic tower was. She didn’t have good relations with the Palmer Family. They must be the ones behind her death.” She had her clenched fist – even though her voice had slowly turned low and calm, Jay could feel the energy pulsing around her. It had started to cause a mini poltergeist.

Jay silently drank tea even after hearing her story, “Hmm.”

Vivian puffed her face, standing up – she stared down at Jay, “I just told you my life story!! And ‘Hmm’ is that all you have to say?”

Jay stood up, walking to her. She stepped back, waving her hands, “wait, sorry, okay? Hmm, is alright? Whatever you -” She widened her eyes when her lips were stolen by him. Her legs stumbled back, but soon her back was against the wall. She wanted to push him away, but he held her arm against the wall. Kissing her, taking her lips as if he owned them.

Jay watched her face, going red, her on hand trying to struggle against his chest, her legs squirming. But slowly, her struggles were dying down – she closed her eyes, not moving.

Jay untied her wrap dress the moment his arm touched her naked skin. She trembled – there was a red blush on her face as his hands roamed around her skin. She slowly started kissed back, her hands wrapped around his body, pulling him closer.

Jay pulled back, her face followed him, wanting to continue the kiss, “I thought she made a mistake…it seems she chose really well.”

“Ah…” Vivian embarrassedly wanted to say something, but Jay took her lips again. Her legs started rubbing against his legs – she finally climbed on him, her legs wrapped around his waist.

Jay pushed her hair back, kissing her neck, making Vivian moan. She raised her chin, her hand wrapped around his head, her lower body slowly started to grind against him.

Jay moved to hold her body in the air, putting her down the bed. His eyes swept across her body. She wasn’t wearing anything underneath. Agnessa made sure Vivian was effortlessly available.

Towering over her, he took off his t-shirt. Adjusting herself on the bed, Vivian held his head, pulling him closer – her other hand roamed over his abdomen, chest.

Kissing, she suddenly stopped, looking away, “I…never had it in me before.”

Jay gave her a single long kiss, his red eyes stared deep in her eyes, “let me take care of it.”

Chapter 2 – The Paso Town.

Jay sat on the wooden logs, the sword was plunged inside the ground.

There was a transparent screen in front of him that Agnessa could not see. It was the system screen – it had his name and photo on it.

 

Name – Jay(Temporary)

Race – Human

Occupation – Fallen Hero

Level – 1(???)(True Level Sealed)

HP 400/400

Strength – 20

Agility – 15

Stamina – 40

Skills – MartialArts Master, Weapons Masters.

Special Skills – Domination.

 

Would you like to access the system store? Y/N

Jay clicked on the empty air, “Yes.”

 

Welcome to the store, current worlds available – 0. Broken worlds available – 1.

Jay clicked on the broken world that was available:

Lost Continent,

Food, (Available)

Clothes, (Available)

Items (Not available)

Books (Not available)

Magic Items (Not available)

Magic Books (Not available)

 

Money – 1 Gold Coin.

 

Jay glanced at Agnessa, who was warming herself up after having a bath near the well. She was still wearing the cloak, “How does the currency work?”

“Mmm…” Agnessa glanced over, replying with a dignified look on her face, “Ten Bronze make a Silver, Ten Silver make a Gold.”

“How much does a cloth cost in a normal market?”

“Low levels cost around three to four bronze coins. One with better quality could range from one silver to five silver. Those with the best quality, and the ones that usually nobles and royals wear cost one to three golds.”

“You are informative for a noble Duchess.”

Agnessa shrugged, “nobles have to do more than you think. It’s not happy life as people assume it to be.”

“Hmm, one of the people here called the King to be a traitor – what was that about?”

Agnessa chuckled, “straight to the point, aren’t you! Well, It’s not a big secret – the current king wasn’t even numbered when it came to succession. But he betrayed the country, he brought Niverah Kindom into our business, and with their help, he won. After coming to power, he killed all our brothers and married all the sisters away.”

“So he’s a puppet king?”

“Yes, but Niverah don’t really interfere in our affair. They seemed to be busy searching old ruins – the only reason they made such a move was to get access to ruins in our land. Otherwise, they might not have even cared.”

Jay sat there, looking at the terminal. He put his hand on the hilt, his eyes closed, ‘How do I unlock more options?’

It was just a try to communicate with the sword, but it worked.

 

[Path hasn’t been chosen.]

 

Jay stood up, tapping the sword, a black dress appeared in front of him. He threw it at Agnessa, “here, wear this, and we are leaving.”

Agnessa rubbed the material of the black dress, “well, this would do for now. Where do you plan to go, My Lord.”

“Nearest Isengard’s village or town, and then go back home.”

Agnessa took off the coak, frowning as she stood naked in the center of the village, “My Lord, can I get some undergarments?”

After a few moments, Jay put a white bra and panty in front of her. It caused her to giggle happily, “My Lord seems to understand my choice.”

She slowly wore the clothes, not worried about the prying eyes, not even trying to hide.

After putting the cloak over it, she straightened her clothing, “How do we plan to travel, My Lord.”

Jay started walking, “On foot.”

Agnessa frowned, running after him, “I hope you are not serious!”

While both of them walked, Jay tried to figure things about the stat systems.

Along the way, from what he figured out, he had a strength of around two-hundred kg. So one stat point would be ten kg. But even he knew that every hundred levels were a qualitative change.

While his speed was around a hundred and fifty meters per second.

 

But there was one thing that bugged him, the woman behind him was huffing, barely able to drag her legs.

It made him stop and ask, “what level are you?” Although it had been a few hours, she should be that tired.

She tried her best to catch her best, speaking, “Level? You mean Tier?”

“Yeah, whatever you call it.”

“1st Bronze Peak.” From what he figured, it should be level ten.

Jay stopped turned back, scrutinizing her, “You should be stronger than that.”

Agnessa blinked, “I was once, but after the failure of succession, I and other sisters like me, our powers were sealed. To make sure we can’t revolt against our new owners.”

She covered her mouth as if embarrassed about her slip-up, “I mean our husbands.”

Jay looked around, “I’ll collect firewoods.” He couldn’t just push her – she was his ticket to a position to power.

 

Sometime later, Jay put together a bonfire and a few stones for them to sit. All the while, Agnessa sat near a tree, leaning against the tree, “So? What do you plan?” She asked when Jay sat down.

Jay sat near the fire, staring up at the deary sky, “Not sure, I have decided to kill your brother and become the new king. What I haven’t decided is how.”

Agnessa curled her lips, “he’s better protected than you might think – there are Silver Knights and Magicians around him. Let alone if he’s in a bad spot, Niverah would send Golden Knights and Magicians.”

“As I said, I haven’t decided, but I’ll do it somehow.” Just hearing about the Kingdom wasn’t enough. He needed to see it, meet the people there, see the cracks insides, things, people, culture, economy, anything that he could exploit. Usually, in such backward Kingdoms, there were plenty of those. Especially with Magicians and Knights creating a more extensive class divide than Nobles and Commoners.

But that divide seemed smaller than he would have liked.

The two continued their journey for two more days water, food, and other necessities were mostly available through the system. Allowing a more hygienic trip than Jay or even Agnessa had expected.

When they reached the first town, even Jay couldn’t help but breathe a sigh of relief.

Agnessa stretched her body, making the cloak strick to her front, revealing her tempestuous figure, “finally, the Paso town.”

It was a small town, with one-story buildings on both sides of a wide road. The design of the building reminded Jay of wild west towns from the USA.

For his second trial – He was sent to a planet called earth. The Dungeon gates appeared in that world – after failing his trail, he was dropped down here. But before that, he lived in that world for a few years. It was a world that offered a wide variety of entertainment – it was his guilty pleasure between the raids. The raids also did take him around the world.

It was early morning when they reached the village – there were barely any people on the road, a few stray sheeps walked around.

Jay looked around, crossing Knights Office, Salon, and a closed Weapon shop. He stopped in front of the Inn, but moments later, Agnessa pulled him from his hand, “not here, My Lord!”

Jay glanced at her happy face until she dragged him in front of the only two-story building in the town, “Every town has a place for Royals and Nobles to stay. This is the one.”

Jay stared at the board – Royal Inn was written in big letters. The moment two stepped inside, two fully armored knights drew out their swords, stopping Jay from entering further.

“Duchess, Welcome back. Forgive my rudeness, but only nobles are allowed to stay in this Inn. Servants are not allowed to enter.” One of the Knights spoke, his eyes glanced at Jay. Well, he was mostly trying not to look at the Duchess, who was not wearing her cloak. Her undergarments were visible from her tight black dress, her figure was enough to make any man stare at her. But they wanted to live, so they could only stare at the boy to distract themselves.

Agnessa shouted in anger, “don’t be rude!!! Lord here is a noble from the Crimson Kingdom!” The two removed their sword in hesitation, “But Duchess…” The knight wanted to say that the boy was conning her when he finally spoke.

“Step down.”

It was the calmest voice that they had heard, but it made them bow their head. Just the thought that this boy was not of a noble lineage seemed so foolhardy now.

“Yes, Lord!” Both of them saluted at Jay’s back as he walked up the stairs with Agnessa.

She showed him to a room -the room in this small town could be said to be too luxurious.

It had a big bed, chairs, and tables made of the finest wood curtails of the finest silk. There was a feeling of shining light piercing his eyes when he stepped inside. It was because of all the luxury put into one room.

Agnessa closed the door behind her, a smile hanging on her lips, “My Lord, do you like the room?”

Jay let out a breath of relief – finally, a smile appeared on his face as he sat down on the comfortable chair, basking in the morning sunlight that sneaked through the window curtains, “Yeah.”

“Oh my, that’s one charming smile you have,” Agnessa said, her cheek slightly blushing. But Jay didn’t care – ninety-nine percent of the time, her expressions were fake.

After seeing the unresponsive Jay – She didn’t stop smiling. Instead, she bowed, “My Lord desires for something? If you might like, you can use a bath – I’ll have the finest women sent to serve you. If you’d want, there might even be a few young virgins that you could keep.”

“Books on Magic, do you have them?”

Angnessa blinked, “Yes, but not many. If you’d like, I can ask someone to get as many as you’d like.”

Jay opened his eyes – his sharp red eyes seemed to peer inside her soul. “Books on Magic – Martial Arts – The Path of Knight – Geography – Religion – Political Situation – Royal History – Noble Families. I want all of them.”

Agnessa’s lips curled into a happier smile, “Yes, My Lord.”

Before she left, Jay spoke again, “Also, a woman, a magician would be preferable.”

“That would be hard, but I’ll have it arranged by tomorrow. I know someone that the Lord would love.” She became even happier as she excitedly left the room.

Jay stood up, opening the curtains. He covered his eyes to protect them from the sudden light before he opened them again, staring out of the window.

From his room, he got a good view of the town, even the entrance of this Inn. He waited until Agnessa finally came out, sending some knights on the errands.

A happy, expecting smile appeared on his face, “I wonder what method you’d use – To try and kill me.”

Chapter 1 – The Sword and the Woman.

Under a dark, dreary sky, the light crept from beyond the dark cloud that covered the sky.

One ray of light sneaked across the dark trees and fell on the boy lay on the shining blue glass.

He stared towards the dull, cloudy sky – the eighteen or nineteen-year-old boy raised his hand as if trying to stop the few rays of light from falling on his face.

“So the legend was true…” He muttered.

The boy raised his body, sitting up – his smooth spiky black hairs shook as he stood up. His red eyes stared down at his body – there was just one piece of clothing covering his body, an old cloak black cloak with a few holes in it.

He randomly chose a direction and started walking; the boy wasn’t sure how long he walked. He walked a while before reaching the edge of the forest – stepping out of it, his red eyes fell on burning lights in the distance.

The boy walked towards the light, reaching a village. The village had few arrows and rusty weapons lying around. The houses were broken, some people were fetching water from a well.

There weren’t many people in the village, around twenty or thirty. A few men and women were wearing old broken clothes, sitting around the bonfire.

The boy went around the fire, sitting on the empty place on the wooden logs that the few men and women were sitting on.

One of the women glanced in his way, “Oh, we get fresh blood after so long, and all we get is a pretty boy?” On the surface, she seemed to be an ordinary village’s housewife, but there was an air of warrior around her.

“Don’t be so harsh on him – Boy! which Kingdom are you exiled from?” A man came sitting beside him, patting his back.

The boy raised his hand, pointing forward in a random direction.

“Isengard…the Kingdom of the Traitor King.”

One of the men, the one with the scar, spoke, staring in that direction, “I am also from there.” He suddenly laughed, “I was sent here for killing the bar owner. He dared asked me for money!!”

Crazed laughter rose from the people that surrounded the fire – it was as if they heard the funniest joke ever.

The boy stared at them before turning his eyes towards other villagers; the few other tens of people looked at this group with nervous eyes.

The boy watched them, his eyes darting between their faces. He stared at the fire, hearing them brag about their crimes and the reason why they were sent to this place.

He soaked information from them as they tried to brag – this world seemed to have three human kingdoms. But there were also monster races that kept the three kingdoms on their toes and stopped them from expanding.

The broken village where they were – it was close to the area that the Goblins ruled over.

Because there were so many monsters to fight and protect their kingdom from, criminals weren’t killed. They were put under a dark magic contract and sent to the boundary areas to survive. If you could stay alive long enough and kill enough monsters, then not only you’d be forgiven, but you’d get a title for nobility. But well, no one ever survived long enough.

The scar-faced man, who seemed to be the leader of the group, said, “Boy do you know how to wield a weapon?”

The boy gave a brief nod looking at the man.

The scar-faced man laughed, “Good! Don’t end up like the girl that came last week!”

The boy didn’t ask anything – he kept staring at the fire. It seemed to have caused the others to lose interest. There were these kinds of people. People like him found it too hard to face reality, so they mostly stayed silent.

Slowly, they stood up, leaving to sleep. When the moon was at its highest, the boy rose to his feet. He walked out of the village, following the wreckage of bows, arrows, scorch marks, water puddles.

When the moon moved away from its highest point, the boy reached a territory where he finally saw the small footsteps. Even in the shadows, behind the trees, a few presences were moving around.

He stopped walking after reaching an area with a few broken trees. He stood there waiting for a while when suddenly he heard a cackling sound behind him. He took a step to his left, dodging the club that struck the ground where he stood.

The boy put his leg on the club, balancing his body on the top of the club, rotating and kicking the green, rough-skinned humanoid. It had pointy ears, claws, fangs, and a long nose – it held its broken nose, trying to scamper away. But before it could run away, the boy picked up the club and slammed it on the goblin’s head from behind. The strike had so much power and skill behind it that it blasted the goblin’s head to pieces without breaking the club.

The boy kept walking in the same direction – there were a few goblins who tried to sneak attack but ended up getting killed with a swing of the club. He arrived at a cave with bones splattered outside. He bent down to look at the bones before confirming them to be human bones.

The boy glanced at them and walked inside – it didn’t take long before there were sounds of clattering and cackling.

Numerous footsteps came from all around, the boy exhaled. Moments later, he dashed towards the left – behind a stone pillar was a few goblins. They held hand-made spears and axes – the moment the boy’s towering appearance appeared in front of them, they tried to attack him. But before they could even move, the club hit the faces of the two in front, blasting them.

The boy snatched the spear from the hands of one of the dead ones piercing the eye of one of the goblins. The spear went inside his brain even as he screamed.

The boy dodged the attack from the fourth and last one, picking up the club, slamming it down on the goblins head, breaking it and the club.

With blood splashed all over his broken cloak, the boy bent down, picking up the two axes that two of them carried. He closed his eyes for a moment before rushing in the other direction, soon he began slaughtering the goblins as they came.

After a long time, the boy stopped, surrounded by goblins dead bodies – the boy looked around, “nothing useful…”

He walked deeper inside the cave, reaching what seemed to be an inner area. As he got closer, he could hear panting voices – the voices of goblins were most prominent.

Without hesitation, he entered the inner area – inside, there were goblins fucking a beautiful woman with blond hair. As roughly as they were using her, it made the boy wonder how she was still alive.

The goblins were too indulged in the woman to notice him – he walked over and killed one of them. The blood from its broken head splattered all over the woman and other goblins surrounding her.

Making strange voices, saying something in a language that only a goblin would understand, they backed away. But the boy didn’t let go – he slashed the ax, killing the weaponless goblins.

The boy stopped there and looked around the room, trying to search for something, when something caught the bottom of his cloak.

“Thank you…thank you…” He glanced back to see the woman with a round face, blonde hair, broad nose, grey eyes, whimpering. You couldn’t tell that this woman had been moaning with her face twisted in pleasure a few moments ago.

The boy stared at her eyes, she seemed to be genuinely upset, but there was one direction she wouldn’t glance. A smile appeared on the boy’s face – it was a hollow smile that reflected a bit of happiness. He pulled away from the woman, but she didn’t seem to want to let go. Causing the only broken cloak covering his body to fall. He was a tall man, muscles sculpted so well that it seemed they were carved by god, itself. He didn’t seem to be mind being naked as he walked towards the wall. Standing at one corner, the boy touched the rock until he finally found a way to open it. He moved the door made up of multiple rocks – it was perfect camouflage, without the woman’s hint, he wouldn’t have found it this easily. He used force to push away six feet high rocks away, revealing a little pool. It was only a few meters in diameter – at the center was a rusty sword, stabbed in the ground.

It was a silver sword with a golden handguard and black hilt. It had ancient golden ruins carved at the center of the blade. But it was rusted, only an image of what it was.

The boy watched it before looking back at the woman, who was also watching the sword with intense fascination in her eyes.

The boy gestured towards her, “come here.”

“Me? Young Master?” The woman snapped of her daze, innocently pointing at herself.

She didn’t wait for the boy to answer but came running, her breasts bounced with every step she took. The boy pointed at the sword, “pick it.”

It was a command that made the woman step back, biting her lips. But it made the boy blink, “You can’t?” She must have already tried it. It made him wonder for a moment why she stayed for so many days if she already knew this was a dead end.

“Young master…” She said in a soft voice that was on the edge of breaking down in the sobs.

But the boy didn’t seem to notice, “you know what it is?”

The woman looked down, her shoulders shivered, “An ancient artifact?”

The boy looked at the sword, “there is a legend on the infinite ladder – it says that when a hero fails to save the world, he and the broken world fall into the shadows of the infinite ladder. But if the Hero fails the gatekeeper’s trail, he is sent to the first broken world. He must make up, atone and overcome the reasons that made him fail the trail, and then and only then can he pick the sword that no one else in the world could.”

“What happens when he picks up the sword?” The woman asked in a calm, intrigued voice – her head was still staring down at the ground.

The boy smiled, not surprised by the change, “he’d be given another chance to pass the gatekeeper’s trail and climb the infinite ladder.”

“And you planned to pick the sword?”

The boy glanced back, his smile turned warm, “atone? Overcome the desires that made me fall into this world? I don’t give a damn!”

His voice turned louder, laughing, he walked over to the sword.

“I will relish them, enjoy everything that these worlds have to offer. I will enjoy myself, live all my dark desires, amass powers, conquer all the broken worlds that lie in the shadow of Infinite Ladder.”

When he put the hand on the sword, blue thunder and lightning shone, rejecting him. But the boy’s eyes shined, his hand holding the sword’s handle, “I will climb the Infine Ladder, but my way!!!”

The lightning and thunder became even bigger, but slowly it turned into black-red thunder and lightning.

The sword moved, slowly sliding out of the floor.

The thunder and lightning covered the boy’s body, turning into the black shirt and pants, with a long black coat over it. A brown hilt appeared on his waist, stuck to the belt. When the light disappeared, the rust from the sword was also gone.

The boy put the sword back in the sheathe, turned around to look at the woman, who had been blown away when he was picking it up.

She raised her body, panting when the boy walked towards her. Her heartbeat became even faster when he came closer when he crouched down in front of her. She could feel her body trembling, her stomach churning, “are you going to kill me?” It wasn’t like she wasn’t trying to kill him. She had tried to think of so many ways to kill this boy, but the moment she even tried to move, she could sense death an inch away from her.

The boy smiled as if she had asked a stupid question, “Will you be useful to me?”

She glanced at him in surprise, “I will do everything to please master!”

But the boy stared at her and asked again, “will you be useful?”

The woman blinked, her lips curving in a smile, “What do you want.”

“Information.”

She blinked, “you were serious about conquering this world?”

“Yeah.”

A twisted smile appeared on her face as she stood up, clapping “that sounds fun!! But are you sure you want a tainted woman like me to help?”

The boy tapped the sword, a cloak appeared in thin air, “you enjoy being raped by monsters. That is your thing – I don’t care. As long as you are useful to me.”

The woman wrapped the cloak around her body, giggling, “To think you figured it out! The men who usually save me don’t figure it out.”

She fixed her hairs, bowing, “My name is Agnessa Von Isengard, the sister of the current king and wife of Duke Rusell Grey. And what should I call you?”

The boy paused for a moment, “I left behind everything when I fell to this realm…Just call me J. for now. I’ll think of a name later.” His sight turned towards the sword – this sword was much more than a ticket back. Right now, he wanted to see how useful it could be.

Agnessa followed the boy as he walked outside the cave, “Jay?”

“J.”

“Yes, Jay? Right?”

“J and a dot.”

“Mmm, Jay is better. Anyway, they seem the same…”

“Whatever, it’s just a temporary name.”

“Oh,”

“What is it?”

Angnessa stared at his side profile, “Lord should give up so easily, especially when he plans to rule worlds.”

Jay glanced at her, “Stubbornly holding on to something that is not important is foolhardy. It serves no purpose.”

Angnessa’s eyes twinkled, “but my lord, a name is an important thing. You must have one that matches your majesty.”

Jay waved his hand, “I’ll think about it…”

Arriving outside the cave, the boy looked at the deary sky. His eyes seemed to pass through the heaven, crossing the void, and a sea of nothingness, until four shadows appeared in front of his eyes, “we will meet one day…Heroes.” He whispered with a refreshed smile on his face.

Prologue – The Fallen One’s

There was a tale that was famous on the Infinite Ladder – it was the one that told of its origins.

Long before the Infinite Ladder was created, the worlds used to be separated by the sea on the nothingness that not even all transcending, omniscient, and omnipresent beings cross over.

They presided over their own worlds until one day, two such beings came into contact.

Their encounter created a ripple in the sea of nothingness, allowing other beings of such caliber.

Those beings were the ones that created Infinite Ladder and put Infinite Worlds on it.

Their purpose still remained unknown, but since that time, the trails started.

Chosen ones were given a chance to climb the ladder.

To become a chosen one, you needed to fulfill two conditions – You had to save a world and then pass the gatekeepers test.

Those who fulfilled these conditions were the heroes that got to climb the Infinite Ladders.

But this is not the story about the chosen ones. It is about the Hero who failed to pass the gatekeeper’s tests.

What happened to the world if the Hero failed to save it? What happened to those who failed to become the chosen ones?

The fallen ones, where did they go?