《My souls music》


 Chapter 0

    I was perched in the room, the cityscape stretched out before me, the sun casting its golden hues on the buildings. It was a familiar view, yet today it felt different, tinged with anticipation. I couldn''t help but steal glances at the door, my heart thrumming in rhythm with each passing moment.


    How did I get here, waiting for this moment? It''s a tale that begins with a chance encounter, a whirlwind of laughter, and shared stories that wove our lives together. Her laughter, so infectious, had drawn me in from the start. Our conversations were a dance of ideas and dreams, each one revealing more about the other. And now, here I was, waiting for her to appear, to fill the room with her presence and light.


    As I sat there, my mind wandered through the memories we''d forged together¡ªthe quiet walks in the park, the shared glances that spoke volumes, the whispered promises of adventures yet to come. But today held a different promise, a new chapter waiting to unfold.


    The beginning, as they say, is often the sweetest part of any story, however, my story is so sad that you might not have guessed that I was a villain at that time. You know. I smiled, a tender reflection of the warmth that enveloped me, as I kept glancing out of the window. The sun dipped lower on the horizon, casting long shadows that danced across the room. Each fleeting moment outside seemed to mirror the flashes of memories that rolled in, a montage of shared laughter, stolen glances and whispered confessions. Closing my eyes, I let the memories wash over me like a gentle tide, savoring the sweet nostalgia. The distant hum of the city below, coupled with the soft rustle of curtains, created a soothing symphony that wrapped around me like a familiar melody. Just as I began to lose myself in this introspective reverie, a slight nudge disrupted the tranquility. "Dad! Dad!" A child''s voice echoed through the room, cutting through the serene atmosphere. The unexpected interruption brought me back to the present, my eyes fluttering open.


    Turning towards the sound, I saw a small figure standing at the doorway¡ªa miniature version of myself, with eyes full of wonder and boundless energy. The room seemed to brighten instantly as my children rushed towards me, their laughter filling the air like a joyful melody. The juxtaposition of memories and the present reality created a unique tapestry of emotions, a blending of nostalgia and the vibrant energy of family. I opened my arms, and the little ones embraced me tightly, their excitement contagious. In that embrace, the room transformed into a sanctuary of love and shared moments, a testament to the beautiful tapestry of life woven with threads of laughter, love, and unexpected interruptions.


    "Can we hear again how you met my mother?" The question rang out, buoyant with curiosity, from one child, the girl whose name I will not reveal until the birth, of them, while the other, in a quieter tone, added, "Can I know too how you met my mother?" he looked at me with his big eyes, almost pouting.


    Their innocent queries tugged at my heartstrings, evoking a bittersweet rush of emotions. How could I resist recounting that cherished story, the one where every detail held a piece of my heart?


    With a tender smile, I settled back, the memories already swirling vividly in my mind. "Of course, my darlings," I began, feeling a wave of warmth wash over me as I glanced at each eager face. It was a day etched in my memory, not for the daring heist I had planned, but for the unexpected collision of two worlds in the most unlikely of places¡ªthe bustling city of Kangbook. Fate had a peculiar sense of humor that day, intertwining our destinies in the most unconventional of settings.


    As I attempted to execute what I thought was a foolproof plan, the bank''s interior unfolded before me like a meticulously crafted stage. Yet, amidst the orchestrated chaos, there she was, her presence an ethereal interruption in my calculated scheme. Her youth exuded a captivating radiance that rendered me momentarily speechless. In that instant, I stumbled over my own feet, clumsily colliding with a wall in a futile attempt to regain composure.


    Her eyes, wide with surprise and perhaps a hint of amusement, met mine in that chaotic moment. It was as though time itself had paused, the world around us fading into insignificance against the unexpected collision of our paths.


    The rush of adrenaline from the heist faded into the background, replaced by a different kind of exhilaration¡ªthe unanticipated encounter with someone who would soon become the pivot of my world. It was a meeting that defied all logic, a chance moment that would alter the trajectory of my life forever. Ah, I see, they''re looking for a different kind of power, a world painted with magic and mystery! Let''s reimagine this.


    The room was hushed, enveloped in a different kind of anticipation. The city beyond the window, now shrouded in the velvety cloak of dusk, seemed to whisper secrets of a world tinged with enchantment.


    This story has been unlawfully obtained without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon."When I spoke of powers, I meant something quite different," I began, a spark of wonder igniting in my eyes as I delved into a realm beyond the ordinary. "In a world far removed from this one, there exists a place where magic thrives, where extraordinary abilities are as real as the air we breathe."


    Their young faces lit up with fascination, their imaginations soaring into realms where the impossible was merely waiting to be discovered.


    "In that world, I possessed a gift," I continued, the memories of that realm shimmering in my mind like distant stars. "A power woven from the elements themselves, a connection to nature that granted me the ability to harness its energies."


    The children leaned in, hanging onto every word, their eyes wide with wonder at the prospect of a world where magic danced in harmony with reality.


    "I sought riches not merely for wealth, but to harness resources that could preserve and protect that world," I explained, the longing for that distant realm tugging at my heartstrings. "Yet, in the pursuit of material gain, I found something far more precious¡ªthe love of your mother, well that took quite a while because I was so into the power that I was tagged as the villain, well at least one of the villains of the city. As I recounted this, the room seemed to shimmer with an otherworldly glow, the cityscape outside now a canvas painted with hues of mystical allure. It was as though the very atmosphere embraced the notion of a world where magic and wonder intertwined.


    "Sometimes, the greatest magic lies not in the powers we wield," I paused, a bittersweet undertone coloring my words, "which, by the way, I learned way later¡­"


    The room seemed to hold its breath, the atmosphere shifting as a somber hue settled over the space. The children, intrigued by the sudden change in tone, exchanged curious glances, their inquisitive minds pondering the depths of the emotions woven into my words.


    I took a moment to collect my thoughts, the weight of nostalgia and longing lingering in the air like a delicate mist. Turning towards the door, a silent yearning painted across my expression, I gazed intently, hoping to catch a glimpse of her silhouette or hear the familiar cadence of her footsteps.


    "It''s in those moments of waiting, hoping against hope for someone''s return, that we truly understand the depth of our emotions," I added, the tinge of sadness palpable in my voice. "The longing, the anticipation, and the ache of absence¡ªit''s a different kind of magic, one that shapes us in ways we never expect." The children, sensing the melancholic shift in the atmosphere, regarded me with a mix of empathy and curiosity. Their young hearts, though unfamiliar with the complexities of such emotions, grasped the gravity of the sentiment hanging in the air. The room seemed to echo with unspoken questions, the children silently pondering the depth of yearning and the magic woven within the threads of longing. It was as if the very space held a quiet reverence for the emotions that transcended the boundaries of time and space, acknowledging the poignant beauty of waiting for someone dear. The room seemed to stir, the quiet ambiance disrupted by the sudden intrusion of a voice that echoed through the house. The words, though firm, carried a tender familiarity¡ªa voice that commanded authority yet resonated with love and care.


    "Kids, it''s bedtime now. Leave the old man," the voice, my wife''s, floated through the air, wrapping the room in a comforting embrace tinged with a gentle insistence.


    The children, their fascination momentarily diverted by the unexpected interruption, exchanged knowing glances. Their mother''s voice, a beacon of warmth and guidance, drew them to action, prompting reluctant shuffles and muffled protests as they prepared to leave the room.


    As they bid me goodnight with whispers and affectionate gestures, I smiled warmly, acknowledging their departure with silent gratitude for their youthful curiosity that had filled the room with wonder.


    Alone once more, the room settled into a serene stillness, the remnants of their presence lingering in the air like a tender embrace. The city outside, now a canvas painted with the glow of streetlights and distant stars, seemed to echo the tranquility within.


    In the quiet aftermath of their departure, I leaned back, a mixture of emotions swirling within me¡ªthe longing for her arrival and the warmth of her voice that now lingered in the room. The interruption had momentarily halted the recounting of our story, yet it had also reinforced the significance of the bond we shared as a family.


    As I waited, hoping for her presence or even a glimpse of her shadow, I found solace in the familiar echoes of her voice, a reminder of the love that anchored our lives together. In those moments of anticipation, there was a unique kind of magic¡ªa poignant reminder of the love that continued to weave its spell, even in the quiet spaces between our shared moments.

 chapter 1

    I sighed deeply as I felt the weight on my chest, burdening me. As I closed my eyes to take a deep breath, as if it were my last, she came. My beloved wife, and Mother Nature both came at the same time. In my opinion, that was a bit amusing. Why, you might ask? I smiled gently in the empty room, my eyes closed, when her voice filled the space: "Darling, are you filling the kids'' heads with your fantasies again?" Her tone conveyed sarcasm, happiness, and a touch of concern.


    As she approached me, I greeted her with a broad smile, admiring her enduring beauty that remained as timeless as a rose under a spell untouched by age. Unlike me, burdened by my curse, which I''ll explain to you after bidding farewell to my wife once more¡ªa task that pains me deeply to undertake yet again.


    Hey, honey," I whispered with a bittersweet smile as my eyes widened. With a smile on my face, I confessed to her, "I love you more than words can express. It pains me to say this, but I must go now."


    Pausing for a moment, I gently brushed her hair away from her eyes, cupped the side of her face, and then held her entire face in my hands.


    "Listen, you must stay strong. Don''t let this weigh too heavily on you. But please, promise me that you''ll tell the kids that I wasn''t the villain in your story. Can you do that for me? Please. I looked at her, we both locked eyes with each other as if we were all alone in the room, not in this world. She looked as if she was about to cry, which I was saddened by. Yet she nodded to my only wish. We hugged each other and then I saw Mother Nature beside the doors striking her hand out, for me to follow her. ¡® "Honey, I have to go now. Mother Nature awaits me," I said to my beloved wife with a smile. "Iris, my sweet wife, please carve my name into this chair. So that when I return to this place, this time zone, I can recognize it and cherish it. I want both our names to be carved into this chair to symbolize our love."


    "I will, my love," Iris smiled at me. She helped me to rise and guided me to Mother Nature. "Have a safe trip," she said. Even though Iris couldn''t see Mother Nature, she said, "Please take care of him." I smiled upon hearing her words.


    I took Mother Nature''s hand and we both went down the stairs and out the door into the velvety cloak of dusk, seemed to whisper secrets of a world tinged with enchantment. We then disappeared into the dark depths of the sky, leaving a big star behind.


    Yeah, that is how a villain like me in my 4th lifetime died. Even Mother Nature looked to disappointment, as we went up and away from the house. My heart was aching, yet I felt like I had a different mission. It was as if Mother Nature was taking me back in time, akin to experiencing flashbacks, where my entire life flashed before my eyes. Eventually, Mother Nature and I ascended to the sky and sat on a cloud. Closing my eyes for a moment, we found ourselves in a dark cinema. This cinema evoked a familiar feeling, one that I had long forgotten. I smiled at the black screen with a sense of anticipation, as if I knew what was about to happen.


    Support creative writers by reading their stories on Royal Road, not stolen versions.Turning to Mother Nature, I asked, ''Why am I here? I thought this was my last life. You said it would be. So why am I back in this cinema, filled with emotions and sadness?''


    I was looking around to see if there was at least another fortunate yet un-fortunate soul wandering around amidst the pastime between death and destiny. I sighed because I did not see anyone, and then my gaze went back to Mother Nature. She looked as beautiful as ever, with her eyes as cold black pools yet gleaming with a clear glint of life. Her form resembled that of a human, but her back sprouted wings reminiscent of branches and leaves, lending her an otherworldly and ethereal aura. As she stood amidst the natural landscape, her presence seemed to blend seamlessly with the earth, as if she were a living embodiment of the wilderness itself. She wore a golden. Her white dress had lost its shape, clinging to her body as it dripped down, an ethereal sight both magnificent and captivating to human eyes.


    And here I was in my pj¡¯s of gleam blue, and soft and fuzzy slippers.


    I kinda giggled at that when I looked back on me. The moment I was about to ask her a question, the screen hit me with a bright light. Text appeared on the screen, presenting me with a choice between a new life or death. It meant that I would perish without realizing my dreams, without fulfilling the mission I had in life, without exacting revenge on those who wronged me. And I believe Mother Nature knew that. So, it came as no surprise when I chose rebirth.


    I asked her to tell me who would be my next mission, and she smiled big, hugged me, and said with her angelic voice: Dear, I am giving you a second chance to reclaim what was yours, to stand up and change your past, to become something, no someone you want more than ever. I looked at her, my eyes opening wide as I jumped out of my seat and hugged her hastily. She hugged me back, whispering in my ear, "Good luck, and don''t trust the people who betrayed you. After my last fare well with Mother Nature, I turned to the white light in front of me and jumped in with a smile. waving goodbye with a smile on my face.

 Chapter 2

    As I traveled further into the light, it grew increasingly bright until I saw blackish shadows. But amidst this, I could hear someone calling my name. "Jay, are you okay?" I slightly opened my eyes to see a woman with other humans running toward me, hovering over me. I looked down at my hands to see them covered in bruises and blisters, some of which had begun to bleed. All I saw before I passed out was the woman figure coming to my aid, hugging me tightly. The next thing I knew, I must have passed out. How do I know I passed out? When I opened my eyes again, I found myself in my old room, in the top "basement" of my old house, with my maid, a doctor, and my mother.


    "So you decided to wake up, huh," I heard Mother say condescendingly. All I could do was open my eyes and close them again. I attempted to get up from the bed to greet her, but the doctor stopped me, shaking his head.


    "Listen well, son. This better not happen again. You hurt my poor baby Mark. How dare you?" As she said that, she stormed off, banging the door behind her, making my small room shake.


    The room was tense after Mother left, yet it was somewhat breathable. The doctor spoke, "Young man, you took a heavy blow, which messed up your magic circle, meaning you won''t be able to use magic for a few years, okay?" He looked at me with concern.


    As he was explaining why that was bad, I remembered the accident. I was so angry afterward that I almost killed myself and everyone around me. But now I know what to do. Now I know how to fix my magic circle and wield a sword. Back in the room, the doctor asked me if I understood and I said yes.


    ¡®Um, can you please leave, my head is killing me? I want to rest a bit.


    The doctor agreed, he packed his stuff and left the room, now the only one left in the room was the maid, ahh the maid who made my life hell.


    ¡®You devil child, How dare you a child of wedlock tell me and make my drop difficult the mate said in an unpleasant tone then she grabbed my hand pull me out of bed it made me stand in front of the mirror until told me but lift your gown now she took out a stick which had been broken down and I was in my lives and she started hitting me and she told me to count and I-I tried and as soon as I open my mouth mother walked in she saw that a man has been hitting me, and here I thought she would stop the man from this act but no. The person I hold dear as ''mother'' began hitting me, then started saying things like: ''Why have I given birth to such a weak and useless child like you? I am embarrassed for you.''


    Mother stared at me with disgust and then left after a few minutes, followed by the maids, the knights, and everyone else. Once the room felt cold and empty, it made me feel so small that I cried myself to sleep after applying medicine to my legs. As I was applying the medicine, I shed some tears¡ªboth of happiness and sadness. The sting from the hit and the touch of my fingers with the medicine was bitter, but unlike the pain I''ve felt my whole life, this was nothing. I smiled to myself, telling myself that this was the start of a new chapter in my life. Since I know what will happen, I will create a new timeline, one where I will be recognized and not treated like trash. Then I tucked myself into bed and quietly fell asleep, while the wind was rattling the branches near my window and whistling through the night. Cats and other animals were getting wild in the night, but I found comfort in closing my eyes and dreaming like never before without any regret.


    Morning hit early as the Blue Robin started to sing, I was up and ready to begin my day. After I woke up, I made my bed, washed my face, and ate bread. I got to my desk and took out my journal that I remembered I kept. From then on, I took a piece of paper and started to write down all the important things that would happen each day or soon. I wrote them down and then made a plan to leave Kangbook since they wouldn''t need me anymore. I mean, I will stay here until I am of age 18, but then I will leave. I told myself that no one would miss me, and then I felt water down my cheek. I was crying. I laughed since I normally don''t do that, but I could not stop after that one tear. I wiped away the tears, feeling a mix of sadness and determination stirring within me. Despite the doubt and loneliness, I knew deep down that leaving was the right decision. With newfound resolve, I turned back to my journal, ready to map out the path to my future. After I had that done, I kissed the paper, danced around, and then I wanted to go out to the knight''s yard to practice swordsmanship. In my previous life, I was bad at it as I did not want to excel, but now it''s different. "I will change my destiny." With that conviction, I got dressed in the appropriate attire and left my room. As expected, there were no guards or maids in sight. Quietly, I made my way down the empty halls of the castle, descended the stairs of the main hall, and stepped into the knight''s yard. As I looked around, it was bustling with activity, but the corner I usually went to was surprisingly quiet. I picked up a wooden sword and approached a wooden dummy. After stretching, I could feel cold eyes on me, observing every move I made. They were watching, waiting for any mistake so they could laugh at it. "But from my previous life, I knew very well that I wouldn''t make the same mistake because today was the day my ''Father,'' the Emperor, was coming to these grounds to promote knights to higher grounds. After I took a deep breath, I grasped the sword in my hands and focused my mana within me, channeling it into my sword. I opened my eyes and began to practice some movements that I had seen my father demonstrate to my brothers. I was hitting the wooden dummy so hard that at one point, the tip of my sword flew across the yard and right into the path of the Emperor, who had just arrived. I hadn''t noticed him since I was so focused on the training at hand. The Emperor smiled and approached me. ''So, boy, is this yours?'' With a flick of magic, the Emperor threw the tip of my sword, and I caught it, crushing it with my hands. ''Yes, Your Highness.


    Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on Royal Road.I lowered my head to show respect, and so did the rest of the knights around me. Yet I could feel the Emperor giggling at me, sensing that what I was doing was wrong in some way. Disregarding it, I said to him straight up, ''I am going to get a metal sword since this one broke.'' I looked at the Emperor dead on, acting a bit like an asshole, oh well. But as soon as I said this, the Emperor seemed intrigued¡ªI could see it in the expression he made...


    Almost as if this was the most amusing thing he had seen all day.


    Well, we cannot have you fighting this dummy here," His Majesty said. He gestured, and one of his guards stepped forward. "You will be fighting him, one of my guards, Sir Michel II. If you defeat him, I will give you a title and privileges to whatever you want. He said that in a bit of a condescending tone, yet I gladly accepted it. I could hear laughter and mocking all around the arena, yet that didn''t bother me. ''Father, what are the rules?'' I asked as if I didn''t know the answer. He looked at me in dismay and said, ''Well since you can use mana, He said that while smiling as if he didn''t believe me)  I will allow it, and you fight until one of you sheds blood or is unconscious. Is that okay, son? And you, Michel?'' We both nodded in agreement.


    I grabbed a sword from the wall, as did the knight. However, I also retrieved a small knife and tucked it into my boot for safety. He noticed and said, in a rough yet soft-spoken voice, ''Well now, that is smart, a bit cheeky but smart.'' I couldn''t tell if he was making fun of me or admiring my boldness or my courage.


    I ignored it. Both of us turned towards the arena and started walking towards it. I could feel each of my steps getting heavier and heavier as everyone''s eyes were on me. The air in the arena was thick with anticipation, and the tension seemed to grow with each step. My heart raced with a mixture of nerves and excitement, knowing that this battle would determine so much of my future. Despite the weight of everyone''s gaze upon me, I didn''t let it bother me. As soon as I reached one side of the arena, I closed my eyes, took a deep breath in, and then opened my eyes, standing in my stance, ready for battle.


    So, Sir Michel charged first at me, and I dodged most of the time. I didn''t want to show my true strength yet. As Sir Michel charged, I focused on evading his strikes rather than launching my own. I could sense the anticipation of the spectators, their murmurs growing as they watched the duel unfold. With each dodge, I carefully assessed his movements, waiting for the opportune moment to strike back. Meanwhile, I kept my true strength concealed, biding my time for the right moment to reveal it. I did land a few hits on him, and I could tell that he was surprised. During a brief moment when Sir Michel was not attacking, I caught a glimpse, out of the corner of my eye, of the Emperor, who seemed amused. It was as if he was on the edge of his seat, watching this game unfold. I too, at one point, started to enjoy the battle, and I could see in Sir Michel''s eyes that he too was having fun. But as much as I wanted to continue this enjoyable time, I needed to win. So, as soon as our swords clashed, I backflipped and concentrated mana in my sword. Then, with half of my power, I ran towards him. A huge blue light shined from the clash of both of our manas. We were both taken aback, and both of us were on one knee far away from each other; however, Sir Michel was injured. Everyone gasped as soon as they saw that I had injured the knight; he was stabbed in the stomach, The wound wasn''t deep; it was shallow but enough to cause pain. I hurried over to him and called for the medic. ¡®Medic, healers please come and treat sir Michel.


    I shouted and then they hurried. Before he was taken away, he looked at me with a smile and said, "That was the best match of my life. Thank you, kid." And then he fainted.


    After he was taken to the infirmary, Father came down to congratulate me. To be honest, I was a bit out of breath. Okay, that was a lie; I could barely stand on my feet. The pain I felt after I used my mana, I had forgotten. The stings of all my muscles were excruciating, like no pain before. It felt as if my muscles were being twisted. As soon as Father came close to me, he patted my shoulder, and then, blank¡ªI must have passed out because I vaguely remember him shouting for the healers to come to my aid.

 Chapter 3

    That is at least the last thing I remember. Yeah, even with my eyes closed, I could still feel my body being torn almost apart. I was in so much pain that when I woke up, all around me was a bunch of haze as if I was going blind.


    When I woke up, I could feel the room being cold, even though the fireplace was on. The atmosphere seemed as if something strange had happened. I looked around and saw a few maids and the emperor beside me, his face pale as if he''d seen a ghost. A maid dropped a bucket of water and scrambled, her scream seeming to startle the whole room. The doors burst open, and doctors, magicians, and mages rushed into the room. The doctors pushed past the mages and magicians to reach me, their urgency palpable. Confusion clouded my mind as I struggled to comprehend the chaos unfolding around me. With each passing moment, my vision dimmed, like a flickering candle on the verge of extinguishing. "Excuse me," I said, my voice strained with anxiety, "but I must clarify that I am losing my sight." Though I knew the cause behind my vision loss, the urgency of the moment clouded my ability to articulate it clearly.


    I felt the room go colder, and I could feel stares tracing my every move.


    ¡®Um-a, can I please get a glass of water? As I awaited a response, the room remained eerily silent, punctuated only by the hushed whispers of the attending staff. The request seemed trivial amidst the current chaos, but the parched sensation in my throat compelled me to speak.


    I could hear movement, around me and everyone.


    And a voice from the back broke the cold silence.


    ''Here.''


    Someone handed me a glass of water, guiding my hand with care. ''Be careful now, young master.''


    As I took the glass, a light clicked in my mind. ''Thank you, Sir Michel.''


    The simple act of receiving the water brought a brief moment of clarity amidst the confusion. Yet, the cryptic warning lingered in my thoughts, adding another layer of mystery to the already enigmatic situation.


    ''Young master, how did you know it was me?'' Sir Michel''s voice held a note of surprise as he spoke.


    In his tone, I detected a hint of astonishment at my recognition of him. His question only deepened the intrigue surrounding the events unfolding before me, leaving me with more questions than answers.


    My response seemed to surprise Sir Michel and the entire atmosphere in the cold room. ''Because you are the only one who addresses me like that,'' I replied with a smile, though it was directed towards the space in front of me.


    A sense of ease washed over the room, palpable even amid uncertainty. My acknowledgment seemed to bridge a connection, however fleeting, amidst the chaos that surrounded us.


    "Well, well, kid, you managed to beat my knight. What is your wish?"


    The voice cut through the tension in the room, drawing everyone''s attention to the emperor who had spoken. His words hung in the air, laden with both curiosity and a hint of amusement. As the focus shifted to him, I realized the gravity of the moment. The emperor himself was addressing me, and it was clear that he was offering me an opportunity to make a request.


    With a hopeful smile, you made your request known. Here''s how you could continue:


    "All I want is to be recognized for my talent, not my birth. I also desire the opportunity to study, to learn the arts of magic and swordsmanship, and to eventually establish my own business," I declared, my voice steady with determination. Turning my head towards where the emperor''s voice emanated from, I awaited his response.


    His chuckle echoed through the room as he spoke, "Well, I will provide that for you, but how will you learn without vision, child?"


    His question hung in the air, a challenge wrapped in concern. I took a moment to gather my thoughts, knowing that my response would shape the path ahead. With a calm resolve, I replied, "Your Majesty, though my eyes may not see, my mind remains sharp and eager to learn"My plan was first to learn swordsmanship and various fighting techniques while blinded, to sharpen my senses. Then, if and when my vision returns, I will delve into the study of history and magic. That way, I can train both with and without vision."


    With a hint of mockery in my tone, I added, "Did that satisfy you, Father?"


    I felt a slight snicker from him as I spoke, and my father responded, "Of course, my son, anything for you." Although I sensed his amusement, I brushed it off. Then, my father placed a hand on my shoulder, and I was jolted by a spark of magic. It surprised me, and he seemed taken aback as well. He spoke up, addressing one of the majors, "Could someone please examine my son? It seems he can sense my magic, despite not having a magic core, magic beast, or magic bead within him."


    I could feel the whole room go cold again and I could sense Steps from one of the mages stepped forward: I will dear king¡¯.


    could sense a tremendous amount of aura and magic emanating from him with each step he took. As he drew nearer, he placed one of his cold hands on my shoulder. Then, I heard him rummaging for something in his pocket or robe. I couldn''t see what it was, but when he placed it in my hand, I felt its cold, round surface. It seemed like a crystal ball.


    The Mage instructed me, "Now, I want you to focus all your energy¡ªyour celestial and spiritual energy¡ªinto these two balls. They will reveal your status, and whether you possess magic or not."


    I nodded in agreement and then held both crystal balls in my hands, closing them tightly as I shut my eyes even tighter. Taking a deep breath in, I focused all my energy, channeling it into the crystal balls. It felt as though an immense power was being drawn from the room into the balls, and I sensed my whole body being compressed tighter and tighter until...


    Stolen from its rightful place, this narrative is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.  Suddenly, I felt like I had opened my eyes, only to find myself surrounded by darkness. In front of me at that moment, what I perceived as a spiritual animal appeared so majestic that it felt like I was beholding the universe''s most beautiful creature, surrounded by a sky full of stars. However, it abruptly became apparent that it was not an animal but a voice speaking to me. It uttered, "You''re not ready yet, child."  As soon as I said the person said that I felt a strong winded push.


    Then, just as suddenly as it had appeared, everything faded to black. I could feel the weight of the crystal balls slipping from my grasp, and I heard the sound of them shattering as they hit the floor. And then¡­


    Even in my unconscious state, I could sense the panic that engulfed the entire room, as if they had witnessed something extraordinary. Gradually, I began to feel the sensation of cool cloth against my skin, drawing me back to consciousness.


    As I jolted awake, the room erupted with cries of astonishment. The Maiden''s voice pierced through the chaos, screaming, "My lord! My Lord! He''s awake, he has awakened!"


    I found myself once again surrounded by the same familiar faces, the same people who had been present before I lost consciousness. But this time, something was different. My father, standing among them, emanated an energy that felt strangely calm and gentle, devoid of the murderous aura that had surrounded him before. It was as if he had transformed.


    I could hear one of the men rushing towards my bedside, his footsteps quickening as he drew closer. When he reached me, he leaned in beside me, whispering in joy, "Thank God you''re okay. Now, everyone will fear you, my lord, and I shall become your guard." I replied, "Oh, thank you, Sir Michael. I''m very glad. But what about my eyesight? I still don''t know when I will regain it. Do you know?" I turned my head toward the direction of the voice, offering a grateful smile.


    A voice from the other side of the bed spoke up, "Regarding your eyesight, according to all the Magicians, it will be back in a few months. So, to fulfill your wishes, I''m granting you two years. Yes, you heard that right, two years. You have that time to accomplish whatever tasks you''ve set for yourself. When you feel ready, you can choose to challenge either one of the great magicians or one of the great knights. Alternatively, if you''re feeling particularly bold, you can take on both of them at the same time. If you defeat them, your status will be acknowledged, and you will earn yourself a spot in the running for the Crown. How does that sound to you?" And I''ll be leaving you now. I wish you the very best of luck, Jay. I''m sure you''ll do great," he chuckled, smiling before leaving the room. The room felt quieter than before in his absence. I turned to my guard, Michael, and asked him, "Can I rest a bit more, please?" I asked.


    "Yes, of course, young master. I''ll be by the door if you need anything," Michael responded. I felt him pat my back gently.


    I could hear him pour water beside my bedside. "Master, I''m leaving a glass of water here beside you, and some cookies in case you get hungry because you haven''t eaten all day. Okay? Thank you. Goodnight," he said before leaving the room.


    However, as soon as the night settled in, it enveloped everything in its peaceful darkness. I returned to bed, but the night seemed unusually dark and serene. The rustling of branches outside my window kept me awake, so I decided to get up. I realized I must have slept for almost a day, at least that is what I think. Not sure


    Stumbling slightly, I reminded myself of my blindness. With careful steps, I navigated my way through the room to reach the window bay. Sitting down, I let the cool night air wash over me, despite being unable to see the world outside. I opened the window a bit to feel the gentle breeze of the night. I tried to speak, but no sound came out. Then, I began to whistle, letting the night wind serve as my backup singer, the rustling branches as my drummers. It felt like performing, even though it was just me and the night.


    Surprisingly, amidst the symphony of nature, I heard it: a cat''s meow, soaring through the night in need. Even though I was blind, I could kind of pinpoint where the meow was coming from. I opened the window even further, got on the terrace, and searched around to find the cat. I found it somewhat amusing how I could locate a cat while blind. I smiled to myself, then felt a brush of fur passing through my hands. ''Ahh, there you are, kitty,'' I said softly, smiling at the cat. I continued to talk to the cat, wondering aloud, "Why are you out in the cold? You too have no family. Now, let''s get you inside in the warmth, and when morning hits, you can decide if you want to stay or not, okay?"


    With the cat in one arm and the other navigating my path, I made it back to the bay window, to my room. Slowly, I returned to my bed, still holding the cat. "Hey kitty, here''s some water on my bedside if you''re thirsty. Drink some," I said gently, placing the cat down on the bed. I must have been exhausted because as soon as I settled onto the bed, I closed my eyes and drifted into a deep sleep.

 Chapter 4

    In the morning, birds chirped, awakening me from my slumber. I found myself in the presence of an animal, yet my vision was still blurred. I asked if this was a cat or a fox, but no, it felt like a wolf. But where was the cat I rescued?


    "So, you, dear kitty, you are not a cat but a wolf. Oh, how wonderful," I said, smiling at the wolf.


    "Knock, knock," came from the door.


    "Yes?" I answered, my voice breaking.


    "Master, I am coming in, along with a maid," replied the voice from beyond the door. The door creaked open, and my knight entered, the sound of chains rustling as they clung to the armor he wore. His sword scraped against his metal side armor with each step he took. Behind him trailed the maid, who felt distinctly different. She didn''t carry the scent of blood or lust, but rather of flowers and honey.


    They came closer, and as soon as the maid placed the basin of water next to me, the wolf moved close, causing my knight to startle at his yawn. However, Sir Michell was not fazed; instead, he asked, "Well now, Master, where did you find him? Does he have a name yet?" His voice was gentle and soft.


    I turned to him as the maid washed my body softly and swiftly. "No, he doesn''t," I paused, then smiled, "but he does now. His name is Twilight." I turned to the maid. "Miss Maid, if you intend to poison me, don''t rub my body with alcohol or any other chemicals." I could feel the tension in the air.


    "Master," the maid stammered, dropping the towel.


    "Well, brother, aren''t you going to do something? You think I didn''t notice that Sir Michel is outside. For who do you think I am?" I could sense the challenge in her tone.


    I glanced between them, a silent exchange passing between us. "Twilight, stay," I commanded softly to the wolf beside me. As the tension thickened, I could hear Sir Michel''s footsteps approaching. "Let''s handle this calmly," I suggested, trying to diffuse the situation before it escalated further. I smiled, almost snickering at him.


    Sir Michel entered the room, his presence commanding attention. "Well, master, that is an amazing assumption; however, you are wrong," he stated firmly. "The boy beside you is just my brother, whom I have dressed and taught to act like a noble. And the maid is a maid who will teach you the art of being an assassin."


    I felt a mixture of surprise and disbelief wash over me. Despite the shock, I couldn''t help but feel a sense of admiration for Sir Michel''s brilliant art of deception.


    "However, I am a bit hungry. Can you please get food for me and Twilight?" I requested.


    "Yes, of course, master. Anything for you, master," the maid replied promptly, her demeanor shifting back to one of dutiful service.


    As she left to fetch the food, I turned to Sir Michel, newfound respect tinged with curiosity in my gaze. It was clear that there was much more to him and his world than met the eye, and I was eager to learn more.


    "So what will my day be like today?" I inquired, turning to Sir Michel for guidance. As the little brother left the room, Twilight yawned and stretched, repositioning himself to lay right beside my right arm, close to my side.


    "Well, he has taken a liking to you. What, it''s only been half a night, right?" Sir Michel remarked, observing Twilight''s affectionate behavior. I nodded in agreement, acknowledging the bond that seemed to be forming so quickly.


    As I sighed and reached for my water, I realized it wasn''t where I expected it to be. Fidgeting around to find it, I heard Sir Michel come closer. He gently guided my hand by tapping his fingers on the table, helping me locate the glass. Finally, after a few seconds, I found it.


    "Thank you," I said, smiling gratefully at Sir Michel. After taking a sip of water, the maid entered the room with a tray of food.


    "Master, before I serve you these foods, I need you to tell me if you can smell them, and you have to guess them correctly," she announced, her tone carrying a hint of challenge.


    I smiled, intrigued by this change in the timeline of events. Despite the unexpected challenge, I didn''t refuse. Instead, I welcomed the opportunity to engage in this new experience.


    Accepting the challenge with a nod, I couldn''t help but feel a surge of excitement at the prospect of testing my senses in this unique way. "I''m ready," I declared, anticipation evident in my voice. As the maid brought out each dish one at a time, I could feel the room lose tension. Eagerly, I leaned forward, inhaling deeply, trying to discern the subtle aromas wafting from each plate. I even held the plate closer to me, letting the scents envelop me, hoping to gain an advantage in the guessing game.


    "The first dish was easy," I confidently remarked. "This is a soup, a fish one with scallops and lemon."


    As I sensed the maid putting a spoon into the bowl, signaling my correctness, I wasted no time. Without hesitation, I slowly started to eat, savoring each spoonful. Hunger had been gnawing at me, and the warm, comforting soup tasted heavenly after not having eaten for a while. As I savored each spoonful, a pleasant smile adorned my face.


    "Um, what about Twilight? Will he get meat and bone too? Or do you have something else prepared for him?" I inquired, considering Twilight''s appetite and wondering what the maid had in store for my newfound companion. All of a sudden, the whole room went quiet, so quiet that I could hear Twilight''s soft purrs and gentle breathing, adding a serene atmosphere to the moment.


    Stolen from its rightful place, this narrative is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings."Yes, master, I will go fetch a bone with meat now," the maid said hurriedly before exiting the room. Her footsteps echoed faintly, almost like marbles dropping to the floor. Despite the quietness of her steps, there was a heaviness to them, as if she were carrying a weight or fearing something unseen turned to where I last remembered Sir Michel being and posed the question, "Who is she scared of, you or Twilight?" I gestured towards Twilight, who was peacefully lying next to me. "You wouldn''t harm others, now would you?" I turned back to Sir Michel, awaiting his response.


    "Well, young master, what can I say? Your beast, sorry, your wolf, is a mythical creature. Each one of your family has one, and yours and his majesties are the rarest," Sir Michel explained, his words revealing a truth that seemed to shift the very foundation of my understanding.


    "Ahh, I see. So what does that mean? I have more power than the king himself?" I questioned, intrigued by the implications.


    "No, master. It means you and him are on the same, similar level of magic and controlling beasts," Sir Michel clarified, tempering any notions of superiority with a reminder of equality in magical control.


    "I jumped up from the bed. ''Really, me and father are on the same level?''" I exclaimed, excitement coursing through me. However, my sudden movement startled Twilight, causing the soup to spill onto the bed.  Embarrassment flushed through me as I realized the mess I had caused. "I''m sorry, Twilight, I didn''t mean to startle you. I was just a bit too happy," I explained apologetically. With a sheepish grin, I jumped back onto the bed, laughing softly as I hugged the wolf tightly. "You''re my new partner in crime," I whispered affectionately to Twilight, feeling a bond between us strengthen with each passing moment.


    "Sorry, master, I need to do my daily checks and training. I will leave you in the hands of Twilight and the maid, and by the way, her name is Alison. Okay, make sure you get along," Sir Michel''s voice interrupted the moment, breaking the silence with a gentle reminder of his duties. I nodded, understanding his need to attend to his responsibilities. "Of course, Sir Michel. "Thank you," I replied, watching as he exited the room, leaving me alone with Twilight. As soon as he left, the maid, Alison, joined us. An awkward silence hung in the air as I finished eating what was left of the soup. I stayed quiet, unsure of what else to say, and focused on finishing my soup. The warmth of the broth and the company of Twilight and Alison provided a comforting respite from the tumultuous events of the day.


    "Yeah, that''s how the day went after I finished breakfast and put on some more appropriate clothes," I recounted, recalling the events of the morning.


    "Now, master, shall we begin with your training? Are you ready?" Alison asked, her tone carrying a mix of determination and encouragement.


    "I nodded," I replied, complying with Alison''s instructions.


    "Okay, then come here, sit cross-legged on top of the floor here," she directed, guiding me to the designated spot.


    "Okay, now I will put this blindfold on you," she informed me as she prepared a cloth to cover my eyes.


    As she tied the blindfold securely, she explained that it was part of the exercise. I hesitated slightly, my past experiences reminding me to be cautious about blind trust. "I''ll trust you, but not blindly," I remarked with a slight grin, appreciating the pun in my own words.  She seemed slightly taken aback by my response, but she continued to prepare for the exercise nonetheless. I could sense her determination and commitment to guiding me through the training, despite any reservations she might have had. With a deep breath, I resolved to approach the exercise with an open mind and trust in her guidance.


    As Alison finished preparing for the exercise, I suddenly felt a cold breeze, followed by a comforting warmth that emanated from Twilight. I realized he was leaning on my back, a reassuring presence amidst the darkness of the blindfold. His presence brought a sense of calm and reassurance as if he was there to support me through whatever challenges lay ahead. With Twilight by my side, I felt ready to embark on the training exercise, trusting in Alison''s guidance and the bond I shared with my companion.  I took a deep breath and said, "Well, Alison, do your worst," with a smirk, almost challenging her to push me to my limits. After setting the tone with your challenge, you might await Alison''s response or prepare yourself mentally for the exercises she has planned. Alternatively, you could express readiness by adjusting your posture or focusing your attention on the task at hand.


    "Okay, please take a deep, deep breath and just think about magic, mana, and everything in between," Alison instructed, her voice calm and reassuring. I followed her guidance, inhaling deeply and allowing my mind to focus solely on the concept of magic and the energy that flowed through me. With each breath, I felt a sense of connection to the mystical forces that surrounded us, ready to embrace whatever challenges lay ahead in the training session.  As I delved deeper into my thoughts, focusing on magic and mana, I became acutely aware of the living energy pulsating all around me. Every breath synchronized with the rhythm of the natural world, and I sensed the presence of every living thing nearby. It felt like I had tapped into a heightened state of awareness, connected to the interconnectedness of all living beings and the energy binding us together.


    "Well done, master," Alison praised. "That is how to do it." Here in the room right now, it''s filled with white energy of light. I know that now your vision is gone, but when you see this, you will see the beauty of those sparkles. "I''m proud of you. Now, try and focus all this energy into an object or your very entry and transfer it into your beast," Alison instructed, guiding me through the next step of the training.


    "Am I doing it?" I asked, but there was no answer. At the same time, I could no longer feel Twilight behind me. Panic crept in as I realized I had no idea what I was doing.


    ''

 Chapter 5

    "I started to breathe heavily since I could not feel anyone''s presence. Even though I was still in that headspace where the animal was, I kept calling it until..."...until finally, I heard a faint whimper in response, leading me to approach cautiously, my heart pounding with both fear and anticipation. "Since this has never happened before, I didn''t quite know how to respond. My mind raced with uncertainty, trying to assess the situation and determine the best action. And then there it was, a hit on my shoulder, so strong that it shook me from my feet to my head. "I jolted, and stood up quickly, but then began to faint, and she caught me, my maid came rushing to my aid. ''Master, master, take it easy.'' Still out of breath and in a panic, I fell to my knees. That was a loud thud too because Sir Michel could hear it, and he too came bursting through the door into the room. The maid held me down until I calmed down, but at the same time, Twilight seemed a bit weary too. Poor him. While I could hear Sir Michel running to me, crashing into me, and¡ª ''Ohh, young master, are you okay?'' He was shocked at what he was seeing. From what I could hear from his tone of voice, his expression was both confusion and worry.


    "''I am fine¡ªcough, caught. No need to worry,'' I reassured them. But as soon as I said that, I could feel something was wrong."A lingering unease settled in the pit of my stomach, refusing to be ignored. Twilight started to bark, and then I could hear his voice in my head¡ªa very deep yet soothing voice. ''Master, you dumb child, you have internal injuries; you are coughing blood.''"I was confused and surprised that Twilight shared a telepathic touch with me. And then I passed out again, I think because I could feel even more blood coming out of my mouth. I thought, ''Damn, am I that weak, or is this just a second-life curse?'' "As consciousness slipped away from me once more, a whirlwind of thoughts engulfed my mind. Fear gnawed at me relentlessly, intertwining with the uncertainty of my condition. Was I truly so weak, or was there something more sinister at play? Doubt and desperation mingled within me as I grappled with the possibility of a cursed existence, each heartbeat a reminder of my fragile mortality.


    "Time passed, and once more, I found myself waking up in my bed, the sensation of a wet towel resting on my forehead, and Twiglhigh peacefully sleeping on my numb arm. As I stirred, I noticed a discomfort in my eyes, a dull ache that demanded attention. Instinctively, I reached for the towel, intending to wipe my face, and as I did, a sudden burst of light flooded my vision, piercing through the grogginess of sleep. Blinking rapidly, I felt a wave of clarity wash over me as my eyes adjusted to the newfound brightness.


    "Hey, Twilight, I can see," I exclaimed, turning to him. I saw a beautiful black wolf with a silver scarf lying beside me. He yawned and gave me a somewhat reproachful look, perhaps annoyed by my disturbance of his rest. Nonetheless, he approached me, and I hugged him tightly.


    "Twiglhy, it''s just me and you in this world. You cannot trust anyone else, you hear?" I said firmly.


    "Yes, master," he responded in a soft, raspy voice that sent a shiver down my spine. I looked at him in awe, struck by the gravity of our connection.


    "Listen, we can''t let anyone know that I can see just yet. Around this time, people will come to kill me. We need to put on a show, okay?" I explained, watching for his understanding. He nodded in agreement.


    "So, master, what''s the plan?" he inquired, his eyes reflecting a mixture of curiosity and determination.


    As I was about to tell him my plan, the doors burst open, and a maid I had never seen before in this lifetime burst in with a basin of water and some food that looked like what you''d give to a beggar.


    "Here, master," she said in a condescending tone, almost mocking me, as she threw the food on the bed. With a smirky grin, she added, "Well, now since our master is all mature and blind, I can maybe poison him easily, right, sir Michael?"


    Then Sir Michael entered the room, looking imposing and mighty.


    "Careful, he might hear what we''re doing," he warned.


    She laughed dismissively. "He''s blind, our master is a blind nobody. He won''t hear a thing, you hear."


    Sir Michael''s gaze flickered between the maid and me, his expression unreadable. "Nevertheless," he said in a low, measured tone, "it would be wise not to underestimate him. Blind or not, he is still our master."


    The maid scoffed, tossing her head dismissively. "Oh, please, Sir Michael," she retorted, her voice dripping with contempt. "You always were too cautious for your good. We have nothing to fear from a blind man."


    Then she turned to me and said, "Right, sweetie."


    I could see her evil expression clearly, and it dawned on me that the man she was speaking to was not Sir Michael. He looked familiar, but from where? My mind began to wander, weaving in and out of memories until a light pierced through the fog of forgetfulness. That was Magician Hans. He was in my previous life, the archmage, second only to the grand mage. He was evil. I wondered what he was doing here and why he was posing as my guard. Then I heard the two whisper not far from me, near my fireplace where inside, I had years of hidden treasures and magic stones.


    "So, here is where he keeps the stones that will bring our master fortune. Since our master was not able to receive them because he was banished, this will help clear his name. Your mission is to make that kid, that illegitimate child, trust you, and he naively will show you his most possessed treasure. But you have to be careful not to push him too hard, you hear?" The man nodded in agreement.


    "Um, I''m done with my plate," I said aloud, trying to act nonchalant as I looked around the room, hoping to distract them. Meanwhile, I subtly signaled to Twilight to move the rocks and magic runes elsewhere, dispersing them throughout my room. He understood, and as soon as the two people posing as a maid and my guard came walking towards me, Twilight was able to grab each artifact from the fire-hidden place one by one and hide them around the room.


    "Well, master, how was your meal?" she said in a condescending tone, almost mocking me.


    "It was pleasant. Can you leave now?" I said in a mean voice, though I smiled innocently at them. "I have to get ready to train in a few minutes," I added, trying to maintain my composure.


    She let out an annoyed laugh and left, followed by the supposed Sir Michael, who said, "I will wait for you outside."


    I nodded. "Now, leave, please."


    This story is posted elsewhere by the author. Help them out by reading the authentic version.They both stormed out of the room. I waited a moment or two and then got up from the bed as quietly as I could.


    "Okay, Twilight, are you done?" I whispered.


    "Yes, master," he replied. "What do we do now?" he asked out of curiosity.


    "Now, we wait until one of them is bold enough to come to my room while I am training and steal one. But to their surprise, all of the mere fakes," I said with a smile, noticing Twilight''s confusion at this new revelation.


    "How?! How is it possible for a human to make fake artifacts and modify them to look like real ones?" he began bombarding me with questions.


    A knock on the door interrupted us. It was Sir Michael.


    "Is everything alright, master? I heard loud barking," he inquired.


    "Yeah, it''s fine. It''s just Twilight excited for his walk," I quickly improvised, hoping to allay any suspicions.


    After a few minutes, I emerged from the door, dressed in an orderly fashion. Twilight wore a collar and a leash, along with a stealthy earring on one of his ears.


    "Sir Michael, we are ready for our daily walk," I announced confidently. The guard looked at me, smirking. "Okay, master, let''s go."


    With Twilight at my side, we headed toward the forbidden gardens, where he and I could enter without drawing suspicion. Before I walked in, I hesitated.


    "Is this the back garden? It seems that Twilight doesn''t recognize this place," I remarked, trying to gauge Sir Michael''s reaction


    As we entered the garden, I couldn''t shake off the feeling of suspicion. Twilight''s behavior only added to my unease; his keen senses seemed to pick up on the tension in the air. I maintained a facade of calmness, but inside, my mind raced with questions.


    Sir Michael''s unease didn''t escape my notice either. His attempts to conceal his discomfort only fueled my doubts. With each step, I remained vigilant, ready to uncover the truth behind his deception.


    As we ventured further into the garden, I seized an opportunity to act. Quietly, I feigned a sudden injury, stabbing myself and letting out a cry of pain. Sir Michael swiftly turned around and rushed to my aid, attempting to wrest the knife from my grasp. In the scuffle, I managed to wound him as well. Meanwhile, Twilight, following my orders, began to bark loudly, adding to the chaos.


    The guard''s fury grew as he pointed a knife at Twilight, threateningly. I heard the sound of approaching footsteps as people rushed to the scene. Stepping in front of Twilight to shield him from harm, I pleaded, "Stop this, please! I''m sorry for not being able to give you my stones."I cried out in vain as many royal guards and maids came rushing in, and even Father joined us too. That maid rushed in to help, not me, but the guard. I don''t think he saw that the king was there too, because she said, "You bastard, how dare you yell at people with higher status than you!" Then she kicked me.


    The betrayal stung, but I remained determined to uncover the truth, even in the face of adversity. I stared at her with my so-called blind eyes, devoid of fear.


    "Don''t you dare touch Twilight, and don''t you make jokes of me. Just because I am an illegitimate child doesn''t mean that I can''t prove my worth in other departments too," I asserted, my voice steady despite the turmoil within.


    As she charged towards me, in that split second, a loud voice shouted from the crowd. The maid froze in her tracks as royal guards moved, the crowd surrounded me, and the king emerged from them. The maid, embarrassed, tried to speak, "Well, you see, it''s not what it looks like," but my father interrupted her.


    "Is it now? Let''s see. You have hurt my son and his wolf, and now you are begging for forgiveness," my father declared sternly, his voice echoing with authority.


    The maid''s attempt to shift blame was met with skepticism from both my father and the gathered crowd. As she pointed accusingly at the man whose facade had faded, and then at Sir Michael, he stepped forward to defend himself.


    "I am here. I have been away on patrol because the king assigned it to me. This is not me. You can prove that by asking the town guards and the king," Sir Michael asserted confidently, his voice steady despite the tension in the air. He approached my father and bowed respectfully.


    My father''s expression remained inscrutable as he considered Sir Michael''s words. The truth was elusive amidst the chaos, but one thing was certain: there was more to this situation than met the eye.


    The catch that broke the slice of the crowd silenced everyone momentarily. I looked at my father one last time and asked in a weak voice, "Please take care of Twilight. He is badly injured and needs help." Another catch seized me as I struggled to get up and bow to him, seeking his assistance. At that moment, I could see his face shift from coldness to concern.


    My father''s expression softened as he recognized the severity of the situation. Without a word, he nodded solemnly, a silent promise to attend to Twilight''s needs. With a sense of relief, I surrendered to the darkness that threatened to consume me, trusting that my father would ensure Twilight''s safety.


    As the darkness closed in around me, I felt a sense of resignation wash over me. The events of the day had unfolded with dizzying speed, leaving me battered and weary. Yet, amidst the chaos, my father''s unwavering concern provided a beacon of hope a silent prayer for Twilight''s well-being, I relinquished control, trusting in my father''s care. As I was closing my eyes, I could feel my father''s reassuring touch enveloping me. Through the haze of pain and exhaustion, I saw my father cradling me gently, while the real Sir Michael carried Twilight in his arms. An attendant approached my father, offering to take me to my room, but my father refused, his protective instincts kicking in.


    At that moment, despite the turmoil, I felt a sense of peace wash over me, knowing that I was in good hands and that Twilight would receive the care he needed. Surrendering to the darkness, I allowed myself to drift into a state of rest, trusting that better days would come. Before I closed my eyes, I whispered, "Thank you, Dad," a smile gracing my lips as a sense of gratitude filled my heart. With that simple expression of thanks, I surrendered fully to the embrace of sleep, knowing that in my father''s care, there was hope for a brighter tomorrow. maybe not.