《Isekai'd as Archmage's Omega (BL)》


 Chapter 1: Ep 0 — Heroic Death of a Lonely Man

    A red-haired girl, dressed in a traditional Japanese garment adorned with scarlet butterflies, stood solemn on the top of an oak tree, gazing out at the bluish sea in the distance. Her glossy hair fluttered in the cold northern wind.


    In less than a second, a large vermillion bird, surrounded by harmless fire, appeared from nowhere. Sharp, intense eyes were fixed on her. The girl simply smiled, unfazed ¡ª as if she had expected it. Seeing the enormous creature extend its golden claw, the girl chuckled, lifted her arm, swiftly grasped it, and leapt off the tree.


    Holding onto the creature''s sharp talon, they descended gently and landed near a beautiful wisteria tree that stood in the middle of a grassy field. Under the captivating purple blooms, a handsome man with hair as silky and long as the night rested peacefully.


    The girl looked at him with such affection that a smile, reminiscent of a blooming flower, graced her lovely face. Taking a slow step towards the man, she quietly sat beside him. Unable to contain the strength of her longing, she hugged the man tightly. Her slender arms encircled his waist, sensing the warmth he radiated.


    ''I missed you every second,'' she whispered earnestly.


    The man awoke, immediately aware of the weight and presence of the person he cherished the most. Gently, he brushed the maiden''s hair, playfully twirling the strands with his fingers. His bluish eyes and soft lips radiated the sweetness he held for the girl. His heart pounded so intensely, a testament to the depth of his love, that he couldn''t resist placing a gentle kiss on her forehead.


    "Thank you for not leaving me. I love you," he whispered sincerely, his enchanting voice filled with affection.


    Being with him brought her the greatest happiness she had ever known. Living alongside the ''sacredanimals'' in this place was the most perfect life she could have imagined. Overwhelmed by joy, tears streamed down her face as she made a heartfelt vow, ''I will protect this place, our home, with you forever.''


    ............................


    I woke up with the same dream again and let out a sigh. Each time this happened, the throbbing in my heart became increasingly perplexing. It wasn''t jealousy or envy, as I had been a man living alone for years without much interest in love; instead, it was filled with pain, so profound that it felt as if I were being torn apart.


    It was just a dream¡ªa happy one, to be exact. So why did I feel this way?


    A question that remains a mystery.


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    I got out of my wooden bed and opened the old window. The morning''s chilly breeze managed to refresh my mood. I''m Nazari Eames, a simple man living alone in this run-down apartment. An orphan without relatives, friends, or a partner for 27 years. I lacked interest in the trivialities that most people felt. Ambitionless and indifferent¡ªI was born this way.


    I lived in this world, yet did not exist.


    Wearing my work uniform and packing my backpack with lunch, I began another day of my monotonous existence. Woke up, worked, returned home, slept¡ªmy daily routine on endless repeat.


    If there were a job for being jobless, I''d happily apply with all sincerity. Unfortunately, this world doesn''t operate that way. People must work to earn money, and money to be exchanged for food and other necessities. Such a petty cycle for a human born with nothing.


    I didn''t really care, to be honest. As long as I had enough to eat and a roof to sleep under, I was content.


    Today''s weather was so pleasant that it was ideal for lounging around. I strolled along the road, observing people with their loved ones¡ªwhether it was family, friends, classmates, colleagues, partners, or affairs. They lived their lives with a sense of purpose, each playing a role driven by their desires and goals.


    Not like me.....


    I overheard the sweet giggle of a little girl, happily piggybacked by her older brother on their way to school. It made me think: if I had such an important family in my life, perhaps my existence could have been more colorful than a grayish one.


    A sigh escaped my lips. Regrettably, such ''what-if'' scenarios were destined to remain mere fantasies.


    While waiting for the traffic light to turn green, I noticed a familiar stray cat limping in the middle of the road. In an instant, a deafening noise erupted from a speeding car. My body moved on instinct, recklessly leaping to rescue the injured feline.


    My frail form acted without thought, driven by a protective urge. Before I could fully comprehend, I found myself airborne, cradling the black cat in my arms.


    A sharp crack echoed as I landed on my back with a resounding thud. In an instant, searing agony gripped me. I instinctively realized that fresh, thick blood was streaming from my head.


    The pain was so excruciating that I understood it was only a matter of time before my life would end. Immobile, my vision blurred into a gory haze.


    Ah.... so this is the end. What a heroic yet foolish way to die. Sadly, no one will mourn with this corpse. No one...


    A ticklish sensation forced my heavy eyelid to stay open. I saw the cat I had saved nuzzling my hand. ''Were you thanking me? You''re welcome, little fellow,'' I was about to smile when it unexpectedly bit my ring finger.


    ''''Argh!'''' escaped my lips as a sharp pain shot through.


    Suddenly, the cat began to meow mournfully, as if lamenting for me. The next moment, I found myself encircled by a swarm of meowing stray cats¡ªthose I had been looking after. Their collective sobs seemed like a song, bidding me farewell with gratitude.


    Ah... Such a remarkable sensation. To know that I held significance for these small creatures surrounding me. For the first time in my life, I felt gratitude for not being alone. And so, I gently closed my eyes, finding peace in my passing...


    ...


    ...


    ...


    ...


    ...


    ...


    I felt heat enveloping me, accompanied by the piercing sound of screams and cries. My head throbbed, a dull ache that seemed to permeate every thought. As my fingers brushed my forehead, they encountered a warm, sticky liquid that trickled down.


    What was this? And more puzzlingly, why was I able to move my limbs?


    The air was suffocating, tainted with the acrid scent of burning. In my attempt to open my eyes again, the scene that greeted me was nothing short of absurd. My mouth fell open in disbelief, mirroring the ridiculousness of the situation I now found myself in.


    The surroundings were bathed in a searing crimson hue¡ªthe once-dark sky now a fiery red. Villagers'' panicked screams reverberated, their desperate cries drowned by the brutality of armored men. Children were wailing as they were torn from their families and tossed into cages like chattels.


    The village lay ablaze, a chaotic inferno fueled by the terrifying presence of a massive creature¡ªthe dragon.


    ''Where am I?''


    ''Is this hell?''

 Chapter 2: Ep 1 — The Twin with Jewel Eyes

    The deafening screams of people meeting their unfortunate end, the thunderous roar of a fire-breathing dragon soaring through the air, and the chilling laughter of heartless men assaulted my senses.


    I clenched my eyes shut, desperately pressing my hands against my ears in a futile attempt to block out the din. In this chaos, faces I''d never known succumbed to flames and anguish, leaving my sanity hanging by a thread. I hoped everything was just a simple nightmare.


    After a fleeting moment, I became aware of the quivering in my limbs¡ªa visceral reaction to the overwhelming scenery I saw. Raw and palpable fear tightened its grip on my heart. ''Where am I? Why am I here?'' I couldn''t shake the haunting question: ''Am I going to die here too?''


    ''Rather, is this hell?''


    The question emerged as a desperate attempt to make sense of the surreal, nightmarish landscape before me. With each passing second, the feeling of dread deepened, and I found myself searching for familiarity and solace in this strange world of uncertainty.


    Out of nowhere, a delicate and soothing voice reached out to me: ''''N-Nazari... brother...''''


    The sound seemed to materialize from thin air, wrapping me in a comforting embrace. An inexplicable warmth, akin to the gentle touch of another''s skin, enveloped me.


    Her tranquil presence exuded a calmness that was almost tangible, and in her company, my racing heartbeat began to slow. Curiosity drove me to turn and gaze upon the speaker, someone who knew my name and role as a brother. Yet, the familiarity was tempered by an air of unfamiliarity, as if I should know her but couldn''t place her in my memories.


    As I tried to scrutinize her features, to discern who she was, my gaze locked with hers. Those eyes, like gleaming jewels of gold, held me captive.


    At that moment, recognition ignited like a spark in the darkness, and a cascade of memories tumbled forth, each piece falling into its rightful place. The jigsaw puzzle of my past began to assemble itself before my eyes, the haze of forgetfulness lifting with startling clarity.


    The body I possessed belonged to a 10-year-old boy who bore the same name as mine: Nazari. The girl who clung to me with familiar affection was none other than his twin sister, Zarani.


    In their world, a warm, loving family served as the cornerstone of their existence. A mother and father showered them with boundless affection, crafting a haven of love that shielded them from life''s trials.


    Their family cocoon extended to the thriving village they called home, a haven of prosperity where harmony was a way of life. Days stretched seamlessly, bathed in a serene peace that embraced their lives.


    Yet, as the clockwork of fate would have it, an ominous day loomed on the horizon. The nightmarish ordeal unfolded with relentless cruelty, as the group of knights and their colossal black dragon descended upon the peaceful village.


    In a desperate bid to protect their children, Nazari and Zarani''s parents ushered them into the hidden basement, where a tunnel connected to the nearby forest. There, their parents made a solemn promise to follow, once they had ensured the villagers'' safety¡ªa testament to their unwavering duty as the village''s leaders.


    But fate, it seemed, had a darker script to write. As the parents prepared to protect the others, an ominous presence shrouded the space. A man cloaked in scarlet materialized like a sinister specter, showing no mercy as he ruthlessly extinguished their parents'' lives and plucked their very eyes from their sockets.


    It all happened in an instant, and their parents helplessly couldn''t do anything.


    The twins, Nazari and Zarani, bore witness to this gruesome tragedy from their concealed vantage point, peering through the narrow gap in the wooden floor. The blood of their parents dripped down over their heads, each drop a haunting testimony to the brutality of that moment.


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    Nazari, overcome with fierce and unbridled anger, nearly cried out, his sorrow and fear overshadowed by an overwhelming feeling of rage.


    In that harrowing instant, Zarani''s quick thinking saved them both. She covered her brother''s mouth and, with unwavering determination, forcibly pulled him away from that horrifying scene.


    Together, they fled deeper into the forest, their hearts heavy with the weight of their loss, their eyes now bearing witness to their precious village being consumed by flames.


    Realizing this, doubt gnawed at me¡ªwas this a memory I had lived, or a dream woven from the threads of my imagination spurred by death? Or perhaps being Nazari on Earth was simply a boring dream I had?


    Despite the uncertainty, one thing remained undeniable: the cold pain of my death and the sting on my ring finger¡ªa sensation too vivid to dismiss.


    Yet, these heavy feelings I currently experienced¡ªthe weight of sorrow, helplessness, and anger intermingled, creating a storm of emotions that raged within me. I felt as though a fire raged beneath my skin, a blaze of anger and spitefulness that begged for release yet remained trapped within my chest.


    This pain, this hatred, this anguish¡ªit''s all MINE. It was a part of me, a thread connecting me to a past that I could no longer deny or ignore.


    The urge to release my pent-up emotions was overwhelming. I longed to scream, shout, swear, and cry!


    But the circumstances were unyielding. The situation offered no respite for such outbursts. The turbulent storm within me found its outlet in the silent cascade of tears.


    It''s an emotion, a life that was now mine to remember, to understand, and perhaps to reclaim.


    In the midst of this emotional maelstrom, the warmth of my twin, Zarani, reminded me that I wasn''t alone. As I wept in silence, she was there to offer solace, her own tears mingling with mine. In her embrace, I found a lifeline to hold onto¡ªthe last connection to the family I had lost.


    Though words may have failed us, the warmth of our presence spoke volumes. We clung tightly to the thought that we still had each other.


    Shrouded in the haze of adrenaline and fear, my memory was vague on how we managed to flee the place while being chased by some remaining knights. What I could recall with clarity was the instinctive expertise that guided us through those dangerous moments.


    Our steps whispered like the wind, blending with the landscape as if we were born in the mountains. It was a skill we had honed over days spent playing in the mountain range.


    The terrain had become second nature to us, a canvas upon which we painted our mastery of evasion. Every crevice, every contour of the earth, became our ally as we moved through the twisting trails¡ªa game of hide-and-seek played with deadly intent.


    With precision born from necessity, we erased our tracks as if they were never there. The knights chasing us were left with nothing but illusions¡ªchasing after shadows that faded into the mist. We moved as one, twins bound by an unspoken understanding and fierce determination to survive.


    .....


    It had only been a month, yet the memories of that tragic day remained vivid, freezing time in its aftermath. The attack on our village continued to haunt us, leaving its scars fresh in our minds. The lingering question weighed heavily: ''What had we done wrong?''


    Nothing.


    They appeared from the shadows, striking with swift and calculated cruelty, leaving us defenseless. Their arrival was abrupt, and their motives were unfathomable. In their wake, they left a trail of devastation, extinguishing lives and reducing our world to ashes.


    They were no ordinary force; they held the might of an organization, bolstered by the shadowy presence of a dragon.


    A singular detail etched itself into my memory¡ªthe killer of our parents. The only clue I have is the black veins on his hands, like a ghastly tattoo.


    The reflection that stared back at me from the clear, tranquil water of the river featured golden eyes akin to precious jewels and hair as vibrant as a blooming rose.


    The handsome countenance of a young boy gazed back, a mirror image of myself. My slender arms and small-framed body completed the picture, and despite my efforts to rationalize it as a mere dream, it stabbed me with reality


    The 27-year-old Nazari had been entirely erased from this form. Now, I inhabited the body of a 10-year-old Nazari¡ªa reality that was inescapable and undeniable.


    I was still Nazari but not exactly the same Nazari.


    Now, facing this second chance at life, tangled with chaos, how should I navigate my path forward?


    I quickly plunged the wooden spear, crafted from Zarani''s dagger, into the water. The unfortunate fish fought valiantly for its life, but its struggles were in vain as it eventually succumbed to its fate and lay lifeless.


    ''I need to learn everything about this world¡ªits culture, history, and anything that can aid us. Moreover, I must hone my skills swiftly, before those pursuing us catch up and we end up just like this fish. I need to become stronger, to protect Zarani, and to LIVE.''


    I was on the verge of calling out to my twin, eager to proudly display my catch when she...


    "ZARANI!!!" My voice ripped through the air, laced with desperation, panic, and fear. My world seemed to slow as I watched her cough up blood.


    "No! Don''t die, don''t die." The beat of my heart quickened as I held her pale and feverish form while repeating those words like a mantra.


    "Naz..." she weakly called while fighting the pain.


    "I''m here, Zan... I''m here..." My voice quivered, tears mingling with the shadows as I held her trembling hand, searching for me.


    "I... c-can''t see... anything..." Her fragile words spilled from her lips like harsh whispers carried by the wind. Tears that had once welled in her eyes now mingled with blood.


    Each mumbled word, each syllable of her agony, was like a sharp blade that found its mark in my heart. The weight of helplessness bore down on me, like anchor dragging me into the depths of despair. It was a pain beyond words, witnessing her suffering.


    At that moment, all I wished for was to ease her suffering, to bear her agony myself.


    I carefully lifted her onto my back, urgency driving away tears. "Zan, hold on... everything will be fine," I promised, my voice filled with determination and hope.


    Her weight reminded me of her fragility, a fact I had foolishly overlooked. "Please, don''t let my only family die," I prayed, the words a fervent plea sent to the universe, to any entity and god that could help us.

 Chapter 3: Ep 1 — Pledge of Servance

    ¡ã¡ã¡ã¡ã "Nazari, always remember that your foremost duty is to protect Zarani as her big brother. While your twin sister possesses strong eyesight, her delicate body cannot bear its strain. Excessive use of her magical power could trigger a harmful backlash. Moreover, her mana levels remain imbalanced, leading to frequent fevers. That''s why your father and I contribute our mana every month to stabilize her abilities. However, our dear Nazari, you are not able to do the same. Your types of mana are different. It is vital that you refrain from attempting it. Ok?" ¡ã¡ã¡ã¡ã


    Mom had explained that to me countless times, drilling it into my young, naive mind. But somehow, I managed to forget it. This realization sheds light on the mystery of why, for an entire month, we hadn''t encountered any danger. It clarifies how mere ten-year-old children could successfully outmaneuver those formidable adults. It all boils down to Zan... despite being aware of the consequences, she chose to use her abilities for our safety.


    ''Zan endured that pain for an entire month. A whole month! How... how did I not notice this?''


    I wanted to punch my face so hard and punish myself for neglecting my responsibility. I was a fool, consumed by thoughts of how I would adapt and survive in this world, oblivious to the agony my twin endured.


    As in my previous life, I only thought of myself and no one else.


    I''ve failed... I''ve failed as her brother.


    "Get a grip, Nazari! The ''you'' now is not alone. You''ve always wished for someone to call family. Now that you have it, are you going to let it slip away?"


    "I won''t allow it!"


    Despite the early hour, the sky hung heavy with darkness, obscuring my path and making it hard to see. Small branches from the trees scratched at my face and limbs; their sting was a painful reminder of the urgency. Zarani had mentioned a small village at the foot of the mountain. That''s where I''m headed¡ªto find a doctor, a healer, anyone who can aid my twin.


    Suddenly, the rain began to pour, making the path even more treacherous. Despite the challenge, I continued to run as fast as I could, carrying my twin on my back. Every step was fueled by fear that the grim reaper might claim her at any minute. Her body felt increasingly warm against my skin, and the beat of her heart grew weaker with every passing moment.


    I''ve always been alone in my previous life, and now that I''m not, and now that I have a family, they''ve slowly been taken away from me. The feeling of that warmth is something I can only taste in fragments of memory. What''s the point of being reborn when I will suffer from loneliness all over again?


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    I despise this kind of feeling.


    Upon finally reaching the first house in the small village, both of us were completely soaked. Zarani continued to cough up blood, weakly breathing. My bare feet were almost numb, but the wound I had acquired while running was nothing compared to her pain. Moreover, my clothes were tattered and covered in mud.


    I panted vigorously, but I had no time to catch my breath as the person I carried shivered even more than I did. Knocking at the door, I urgently asked for help. However, when the homeowner saw us, her eyes widened as if she had seen something that should not be seen. She then muttered, "Jewel eyes.." and quickly slammed the door, refusing to welcome us.


    "No!" tears welled in my eyes as I implored, "My sister is in severe fever; please help us. I beg you... Please."


    "Even if it''s just medicine or information about where the doctor is, I promise to repay you someday. Please, save my sister!"


    However, many times I called out, I received no response, and the hand that had once knocked at the door continuously was now discolored.


    I thought hope had arrived when the door opened once again, but my heart sank as it wasn''t the case. The woman''s husband confronted us with a blade, his face contorted in a grimace as he furiously yelled, "Stay away from our house, go away!"


    "Please have mercy. My sister is dying..." My desperate pleas continued. Suddenly, Zarani threw up blood once again, intensifying my anxiety about her condition.


    Yet, the man displayed no surprise, his eyes devoid of any trace of concern. Instead, he heartlessly spat, "''Both of you should perish rather than bringing misfortune upon us!''"


    Those words struck me like lightning, plunging my world into a darkness deeper than the abyss, fueling the blazing fire of anger within me. But the arms wrapped around on top of my shoulders grew tighter than before, extinguishing the growing hatred I felt. It was as if she was telling me, `It''s okay, brother...`


    An abrupt sting shot through my forehead, and a trickle of blood followed suit as their children bombarded us with stones, their cries of ''''Go away!'''' laced with resentment.


    I hurriedly moved, fearing that one of the stones might strike my twin. The wound on my forehead meant nothing, even as blood flowed from it. I tried several houses, but each owner reacted in the same hostile manner. Their actions were a clear display of animosity, yet their eyes betrayed a different sentiment¡ªas if they were afraid of something connected to us.


    ''I only ask for a small favor. But they chase us away like pests.''


    ''What did we do to deserve this?''


    I gritted my teeth and clenched my fist, my nails almost digging into my skin.


    My feet carried me through the grassy field as I ran, attempting to reach another village. The rain continued to pour heavily, as if it were crying on my behalf. The thunder rumbled, as if echoing my fury. I was engulfed in misery, much like the somber sky above me. The string of misfortunes continued when I suddenly stumbled and fell to the ground, hitting my face hard. But the pain I felt was nothing compared to the agony of failing to protect Zarani from the fall.


    I frantically brushed off the mud that had splattered onto her face, apologizing and calling her name repeatedly. But she never responded. Anxiously, I checked her pulse. It was so faint, too faint to even be noticeable.


    "NO!!!" a scream of desperation and anguish tore from my lips as I hugged my twin. My world seemed to shatter into a million pieces. I cried and cried until my tears ran dry. Still, a glimmer of hope remained within me, hoping for a miracle, for someone to come and help us. All the while, I hovered on the edge of despair, cursing my fate and this life that had brought us to this edge.


    It was as if my prayer had been answered. A man more beautiful than any maiden I had ever seen appeared before me. His long strands of hair, silky and white, shone like a beacon in the darkness. His pair of red eyes, deeper than blood, gazed intently at me, instilling a sense of calm. His presence held such magnificence that it was as if a deity had descended from the heavens.


    I grabbed the hem of his beautiful white silver robe with a desperate urgency and earnestly pleaded, "I will do anything and serve you with my life, just, please... I beg you... save my twin. I don''t want her to die..."


    As I held onto his robe, my body suddenly felt light when a warm hand gently patted my head. It was an incredibly comforting sensation, as if I had known this touch for a long time. His voice itself seemed to soothe away my worries. In an instant, the heavy weight of my emotions was lifted, and... I fell asleep.


    "I am here now..."

 Chapter 4: Ep 1 — Being a Silverfrost I

    My head and body felt heavy, as if a ton of stones pressed down on me.


    I vaguely saw a man sitting beside the bed where I had rested. He was squeezing a piece of white towel and then placing it gently on my forehead, his actions showing care as if I might shatter like fragile glass. The cold sensation of the towel seeped into my skin, jolting me awake completely.


    I opened my eyes to see surprise on the man''s face as he began to greet, "You woke up quite early. It''s best to rest; the dawn is not yet¡ª"


    "Who are you?" I interjected, not allowing him to finish. This man was different from the person who had helped me. The young man who assisted me had long, beautiful, silky hair as white as winter snow with a hint of ocean blue, an air of solemnity, and elegance in every movement. Moreover, he was even more handsome than the man before me.


    However, this man was not to be outdone. His golden hair shone brilliantly under the dim light, almost unreal in its radiance, leaving me in awe. There was something about his beauty that reminded me of royalty.


    Their appearances shared one common feature, though¡ªthe captivating dark shade of red in their eyes. But even in this similarity, there was a difference. His gaze held a lighter hue than the previous man''s, glistening as if infused with the brilliance of amethyst.


    "Was there no one normal in this world, or is this the standard for what is considered normal?" I wondered to myself.


    The man''s lips curled into a faint smile upon hearing my question. His blushing cheeks resembled the hue of a peach, vivid against his pale, porcelain-like skin. With a sweet and melodious voice, he replied, "I''m Leonard, the younger brother of the man who helped you. You can call me ''Leo.'' And what about you, young one?"


    Having observed people for 27 years, I had developed the skill to discern a person''s nature with just a glance. This individual was kind to the core, selfless, yet exuded an aura of danger that warned against crossing them.


    "I am Nazari, Mr. Leo." I offered my hand for a handshake, but he merely glanced at it with an adorable, puzzled expression.


    "Sigh, please pardon the difference in culture, but this is how we seal the moment of becoming acquainted in my homeland," I explained, taking into consideration that it was on Earth after all.


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    "I see..." he responded, a look of realization crossing his features. He then extended his hand, shaking mine gently, and added, "Nazari, you appear to be more than just a simple child. You''re quite unique."


    I brushed aside his comment and immediately delved into the main point: "Then, Sir Leo, where is Zarani? How is she? Is she alright? I need to see her."


    Attempting to sit up straight, I shifted on the bed, but a wave of dizziness overcame me, forcing me to recline again. ''How exhausted am I?''


    "You''re not fully healed yet, child. Your body is still recovering from the fever. I advise you to rest a bit more. The regeneration of cells in your body was necessary when my brother healed you."


    Despite his advice, the concern for my twin was overwhelming. I couldn''t find peace without knowing how she was faring.


    "No! I want to see her!" I stubbornly demanded. If he wouldn''t allow it, I was prepared to use my greatest weapon as a child, ''the power of cuteness''¡ªthough I hoped it wouldn''t come to that. Nevertheless, I maintained a burning gaze, unwilling to back down.


    Leonard sighed, his expression softening. "I was present when you pledged your service to my brother. You selflessly begged for your sister''s life, even when your own was hanging by a thread. And now, upon waking up much sooner than the expected one-week recovery time under normal circumstances, your immediate concern is for your sister. It''s important to take care of yourself, Nazari. But rest assured, that child is fine."


    ''Selfless? No, he''s wrong. I''ve spent my life caring only about myself. Now that I have a family, what does he expect? Being selfless is the complete opposite of who I truly am in my world.''


    "I want to see Zarani!"


    Leonard sighed once again, a sign of defeat. He suddenly removed the blanket and hooked his hands under my armpits without warning.


    "What are you doing?" I asked in panic.


    "Your body is still weak. I''ll carry you to your sister''s chamber," Leonard explained calmly.


    I had no reason to complain further, as he was right. But being in this position, it felt like I was a small child being carried by his handsome dad. Oh right, I almost forgot¡ªI was in the body of a child.


    As we walked down the hallway, I couldn''t help but notice that the light in the lamps came from white stones placed in every corner of the area.


    A crystal-clear stone emitted a gentle light that could be compared to a light bulb on Earth. It was then that I noticed my tattered clothes had been changed, and the wounds on my feet and body were gone without a trace.


    This only served to affirm that I had entered a world of fantasy where the impossible could become possible and where magic truly existed. It was a reassurance that Zarani would also be fine.


    Upon arriving in the room, I found Zarani resting peacefully, her complexion displaying more color than before. I asked Leonard to set me down, and without delay, I reached out and gently held Zarani''s hand, feeling the warmth it radiated.


    "She''s alive... " I whispered in relief, observing her steady breaths. Tears streamed down my face uncontrollably. The weight of emotions inside me poured out, dissipating my previous anxiety and anguish like a bubble disappearing into thin air.


    Never could I have imagined that I would experience such intense emotions for someone else, as I had never cared about anyone this deeply before.


    Before, I existed simply by breathing, eating, and sleeping. I drifted through life without any ambitions, dreams, or even a hint of desire. I merely awaited the arrival of death. However, my perspective has shifted now; I fear death, especially since it seems to be accompanied by pain. Experiencing such agony once was more than enough for me.


    Now, I find a reason to embrace this life: Zarani. I press a gentle kiss to her hand, silently making a vow, ''I won''t lose you too. Mom, Dad, I promise to protect her.''


    I turned my attention towards Leonard, who stood there quietly watching me. "How is she? When will she wake up?" I inquired.


    "That will likely be after another six months or so," a voice chimed in, echoing in the room. Shortly after, a boy with white-silver hair and adorned in a stunning silver robe materialized next to us. He seemed to have appeared out of thin air. This boy stood just slightly taller than me and appeared to be around the same age.

 Chapter 5: Ep 1 — Being a Silverfrost II

    Leonard burst into laughter so suddenly like there''s no cares in the world. His body arched as he couldn''t seem to control it. Despite his unusual outburst, his laughter was still a pleasant sound to the ears. He appeared to be a flawlessly crafted human, leaving me curious about what had triggered such mirth in him.


    However, in the blink of an eye, his laughter ceased as if some invisible force had clamped his mouth shut. His complexion began to shift from jovial to a shade of purple; his struggle was evident.


    "If you''re curious, that''s a silencing spell," the kid chimed in once again, taking a step closer to me.


    He seemed to have an uncanny ability to read my thoughts. "I see," I replied briefly.


    "Are you worried about him? Leonard won''t easily die," the boy remarked.


    "No, I''m not."


    "Then are you afraid? Your eyes seem a bit unsettled."


    "No, I''m not," I reiterated, then continued, "The thing is, what you did isn''t something that normally happens where I come from."


    He stared at me in silence, as if considering my words, before speaking again. "That''s good."


    When the boy flicked his fingers, the silence spell broke, and Leonard gasped for air, exclaiming, "Arwin, you''re too much!"


    "You''re not allowed to laugh, Leonard. It''s annoying."


    ''Why do I feel like this kid is superior to Sir Leonard? Nevertheless, they seem close. And this child looks exactly like the man who saved us. Is he his little brother?''


    "But Arwin, why did you shrink?" Leonard asked as he reached out to lift him into the air, but his hand stopped in mid-air.


    "I won''t allow you to touch me. Stop that annoying smirk of yours before I grill you alive," the child warned, a ball of fire suddenly appearing atop his pointing finger.


    "Aww, but this is such a rare sight to see," Leonard replied shamelessly while still trying to reach him. They were so engrossed in their exchange that it seemed they had forgotten my presence entirely.


    "Err, excuse me, but what do you mean by Zarani will wake up after 6 months? Why so long?" I interjected, breaking their intense exchange. The two of them stopped abruptly and turned to me with serious expressions. The little boy named Arwin stared down at Zarani with knitted brows and began to speak.


    "This girl''s soul is not stable."


    "Huh?" I looked at him, utterly puzzled.


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    Suddenly, a dust of bluish particles, glowing with a gentle light, surrounded us, forming different images that seemed to illustrate Arwin''s words. It was like watching the fairest pixie dust dance in the wind¡ªenchanting and captivating.


    "The soul and our mana are intertwined. Mana is the source of all sorts of life and power in the world. Humans, chosen or loved by mana, have a tremendous amount of it attached to their soul. You can say the soul is the medium filled with such sacred power and a magnet to attract universal mana. However, if a body has no ounce of mana, they will die."


    "In this girl''s case, her soul is damaged, which means the flow of her mana is affected too. It leaks to the outside world and dissipates. In addition to that, the core of her power was partially sealed. That means, to live, she can only use two types of mana, either from the universal mana, which is hard to attract, or from people of the same type as her. The latter solution is easier to accomplish than the former."


    After he explained, the pixie particles disappeared.


    I was deep in thought: ''That''s why Mom and Dad replenish her mana every month. No, they''ve been doing it since we were born.''


    "Why is her soul unstable?" I asked.


    "She has memories of her previous life... Her past life and the present didn''t blend well. She was confused. Usually, when humans die, they forget their memories of their previous life if they are reincarnated. This helps stabilize the soul. However, in some cases, if the soul strongly wishes to remember its past life, certain conditions must be met. In her case, one of those conditions was sealing her power."


    Arwin''s statement hit me like a hot arrow. ''Then, what about me? Why do I have memories of my past life? Did I have some conditions too? But nothing like that seemed happened to me.''


    "Who are you? Why do you know this?" I asked, noting that he didn''t speak like a typical child.


    "It''s better if you don''t know me, for now. But this time, they called me by the name Arwin Friezz Silverfrost."


    He extended his small, jade-colored hand as if offering a handshake. ''Huh? Did he hear us talking earlier?''


    I took his hand and shook it lightly. "I''m Nazari... they only called me that way, and my twin is named Zarani."


    In this world, only aristocrats have surnames; as a mere commoner, I was just known by my given name.


    I''m still worried about Zarani''s condition; what if she won''t open her eyes? "Is there no other way to heal Zarani sooner?"


    Arwin tapped the air, summoning purple-pinkish-colored insignia that appeared on Zarani''s chest, adorned with mysterious characters that moved in mesmerizing circles.


    "I''ve already used half of my mana to break her seal and stabilize her," Arwin explained. "Now, it''s her turn to play her part after experiencing the rewind of her life. We can only wait for her to recover."


    I held Zarani''s hand tightly, reassured by Arwin''s sincerity. If she was only physically injured, she''d awaken soon, just as I had.


    "Zarani, I''ll wait for you, even if it takes a year."


    "You are truly unique, Nazari. Usually, children are driven by curiosity and whine when things don''t go their way, but you didn''t. You know when to ask and where the limits are," Leonard spoke up suddenly.


    ''Then don''t treat me like a normal kid,'' I thought. Nevertheless, I still kneeled and bowed before the two of them.


    "This little one is immensely grateful for what you''ve done. Thank you so much for saving Zarani and me. I will never forget this, and I promise to repay you someday."


    I can''t express how grateful I am to them, especially to the handsome man whose name I don''t know yet.


    "Huh?" I asked as I was suddenly lifted into the air. Leonard held me aloft like S*mba in ''The L*on K*ng.''


    "Never kneel down or bow to anyone. If you want to express your gratitude, just say it. Arwin and I won''t allow a soon-to-be member of the family to bow his head in front of anyone."


    "Huh?" I asked again, struggling to comprehend what he meant. "Sir Leo..."


    "Just Leo," he corrected with a friendly smile.


    "Then, Leo, I''d like to meet your brother who helped us." I wanted to ask where he was, but Leonard suddenly cackled. In the blink of an eye, I found myself defying gravity, hurtling towards Arwin. With a puff of smoke and a mysterious transformation, the child turned into the beautiful man I had been looking for.


    ''So, Arwin and he are the same person. That explains why they both carry the same aura.''


    I promptly landed on his arm, and he carried me as if I were his own son.


    "Nazari, don''t let that scoundrel touch you. I won''t allow it."


    "Huh?!"


    "Hey, brother, Nazari is just too cute; don''t be so possessive," Leonard complained while attempting to reach me, but he couldn''t due to the invisible shield Arwin had cast.


    I was stunned by this sudden revelation. Had that elegant man vanished into thin air, or had he been a product of my despair-fueled imagination? These two were bickering like immature children. Worse yet, I found myself more comfortable in Arwin''s arms than Leonard''s. Their conversation was beyond my comprehension, given my limited human knowledge.


    "Nazari..." he softly called.


    "Hmm?"


    "From today onward, I bestow upon you my blessed name, Silverfrost. You shall be known as Nazari Eames Silverfrost," Arwin declared, sealing it with a kiss on my forehead. Simultaneously, a gentle light enveloped us, casting a mystical warmth.


    .


    .


    .


    "Can someone please explain what is happening?"

 Chapter 6: Ep 1— Farewell I

    *flip


    Yuzir''s continent, the world''s second-largest, takes on the elegant shape of a human heart, nestled amidst a rich tapestry of diverse races. Across its expansive landscapes, it unveils a realm brimming with enchantment and mystery.


    Among its varied inhabitants, the elves reside in the western region, boasting a dominion that rivals any other in scale.


    Their unique traits are as captivating as the twilight itself¡ªemerald eyes shimmering with unearthly wisdom, locks of light green or golden hair that glisten like the sun''s gentle touch, and graceful ears tapering to delicate points.


    Standing tall at six feet or more, these beings are adept in archery, renowned for their exquisite beauty, and revered as guardians of mana, a mystical energy coursing through their veins.


    *flip


    The Dryads, revered as the guardians of the Great Forest of Saviya, preside over a realm of unparalleled grandeur. ''Saviya,'' the continent''s oldest and largest forest, acts as a powerful natural barrier.


    Its tall trees and magical aura guard the northern, eastern, and southern regions from the mysterious western wilderness.


    Inside, enormous trees stand like giants, and a variety of creatures, from the smallest E-Ranks to the most formidable S-Ranks or higher, roam its twisting paths.


    This ancient sanctuary, filled with the essence of universal mana, hides itself in a mix of wonder and danger. Its dense forest makes it hard for regular folks to explore, with mysteries and dangers lurking at every corner.


    *flip


    The Beastfolks, also known as the Beastmen, is a captivating race that embodies both human and beastly qualities. They call the southernmost part of the continent their home, dwelling a number of tribes, ranging from the benevolent to the most malevolent.


    Each tribe possesses distinctive characteristics and hidden abilities shrouded in mystery, yet they all share a common thread of exceptional strength and heightened senses.


    *flip


    Dwarves, a small yet resilient race, typically stand no taller than four feet. They''re known for their striking amber eyes and chestnut hair.


    Residing in the Northwest region of the continent, they occupy a modest but prosperous domain. Their homeland comprises rugged mountains, which serve as both a source of pride and the backbone of their economy.


    Dwarves are renowned for their fervent passion for mining, extracting a variety of valuable minerals such as diamonds, gold, iron, emeralds, rubies, and numerous other treasures. These riches are exported far and wide across the continent. Among them, the most extraordinary and rare are the coveted mana stones.


    Furthermore, the Dwarves boast an elite cadre of masters and legendary blacksmiths who are in high demand even in the distant human kingdom, their exceptional craftsmanship forging the mightiest weapons and armor known to the whole continent.


    *flip


    You might be reading a pirated copy. Look for the official release to support the author.


    The Kingdom of L''Yuziria, a formidable land in the eastern expanse of the vast Yuzir continent, stands as the paramount realm ruled by humans.


    It dominates the continent, boasting the mightiest military force, comprised of thousands of valiant soldiers and knights, an elite corps of hundreds of mages, a select few revered Swordmasters, and the unparalleled Archmages.


    At the helm of L''Yuziria''s power sits King Stuller Hannant L''Yuziria, a monarch revered as much for his wisdom and devotion to peace as for his unparalleled prowess on the battlefield.


    Since ascending to the throne, he has achieved the remarkable feat of uniting the diverse races that populate the continent.


    But it is in combat that King Stuller truly strikes fear and awe into the hearts of adversaries, for he is one of the few legendary S-Rank Swordmasters and a mage possessing mastery over eight elements.


    L''Yuzirian''s Royalties possess distinct traits: golden hair and deep blue eyes. The darkness of their features indicates the purity of their bloodline.


    *flip


    The Northern Territory, a segment of the human kingdom, remains a neutral zone. It ranks as the third-largest region on the continent and is governed by the Grand Duke of the Friezz Family, known for their distinctive red eyes.


    *flip¡­


    *Flip.


    *FLIP!


    As I flipped through the next pages of the book in search of more information about the Friezz family, my efforts proved futile. Surprisingly, they possessed the briefest entry among the fundamental descriptions of the various races and aristocrats on Yuzir''s continent.


    "Friezz family," I mused aloud, but the books remained immobile.


    In the world of fantasy, elves, dryads, dwarves, beastmen, mages, and knights are common characters, yet this books made no mention of dragons or those humans marked with black veins.


    ''I suppose I''ll have to extend my stay here.''


    After three hours in this immense library, it felt as though I had stepped into another world entirely. The shelves, as colossal as entire buildings, stretched upward beyond my vision''s reach. Gazing too long risked a severely stiff neck. However, what truly left me in awe was the library''s hidden magic.


    As I contemplated the kind of book I desired to read, a command was all it took. Books from the towering shelves obediently glided toward my table, stacking themselves into a neat pile.


    Each one, as if possessed by a sentient spirit, opened its pages with grace, revealing the precise information I sought. This remarkable convenience felt akin to surfing the boundless depths of the internet.


    The library was like heaven for book lovers, but it could be overwhelming for newcomers. Still, it was a savior for my inherently lazy ass. Just looking for the right book in the usual way would have taken all day. That idea alone was terrible.


    In this child Nazari''s memories, he never saw any characters written inside these books. Yet strangely, I could easily read them as if they were written in ordinary English alphabet. This strange phenomenon could only be due to Arwin''s magic.


    Arwin bestowed me the name Silverfrost for a special reason ¨C to let me use the estate''s enchantments easily. It acted as a key to activate runes hidden all over, each with its own purpose. For example, it let me control the flying books in the library, instantly transported around the Grand Dukedom, and access many other magical abilities.


    I couldn''t help but wistfully think about how wonderful it would be if such magic existed on Earth, right?


    During my seven days living here, I couldn''t help but notice the interesting dynamics of the estate. It boasted only a sparse complement of maids, butlers, and chefs, yet a considerable number of knights were in its employ.


    The maids were incredibly discreet; their subtle presence, or rather the lack thereof, highlighted the smooth operation of Arwin''s grandeur.


    Even so, I wouldn''t have realized Arwin was a Grand Duke if I hadn''t overheard the occasional whispers among the maids. And during these curious days, Zarani still remained in a deep slumber.


    The memory of that ominous night flooded my mind, gripping me like an unshakeable nightmare. King L''Yuzaria, known for his professed devotion to his people, should never have authorized an assault on our peaceful village.


    The question lingered like a haunting specter: where did those mysterious knights come from? My only clue lay in the eerie presence of the black dragon they wielded. They bore no emblem on their armor, and their flag remained a puzzling mystery.


    "Nazari," Arwin''s voice echoed through the library.


    He appeared abruptly, floating gracefully above the table. His child-like visage remained unchanged. By now, I had grown accustomed to his unexpected appearances, which had occurred countless times before.


    "...you always confined yourself to this library. Why don''t we venture outside for some fresh air?"


    Arwin extended his hand, its jade-like hue gleaming, a silent invitation for me to hold it. He continued persuasively, as though he understood my hesitation: "Liza and May will look after Zarani; you needn''t worry. They have proven to be entirely trustworthy."


    Liza and May were among the few maids in this place, individuals who consistently halted my attempts to assist or clean independently, simply because I was a guest specifically invited by the Grand Duke.


    "Then, where should we go?" I inquired.


    A warm smile graced Arwin''s face as I clasped his hand. "The first stop is wherever you desire."


    I pondered this, realizing I had no particular destination in mind.


    A sudden gust of wind enveloped us, and I found ourselves surrounded by a shimmering cloud of tiny silver butterflies.


    My body began to rise gently, and the world around us gradually disappeared beneath a cascade of silver wings. In this ethereal transformation, I watched as the books returned to their shelves, leaving the table I had been sitting at empty.


    Through it all, I couldn''t miss the sight of Leonard being forcefully ejected through the Library''s door, his voice echoing defiantly.


    "Brother, don''t leave me! I also want to go to your da--!"


    But Arwin swiftly silenced Leonard''s voice with a flick of his finger.


    "Shall we?"


    "Oh?... Okay." I answered, confusedly.

 Chapter 7: Ep 1— Farewell II

    In the blink of an eye, I found myself in a desolate, charred village. The ground and ruined houses stretched out in eerie shades of black and gray.


    Even the remnants of human bodies had crumbled to dusty fragments. Not a single trace of life remained in this ashen place.


    Arwin, his expression etched with concern, asked, "Is this where you intended to come?"


    ''I don''t know either,'' I thought, feeling lost.


    "I considered it briefly," I admitted, feeling a mix of emotions, "but I never thought I''d end up back here, Arwin... This is my home village."


    He stood quietly, his face showing sadness as he looked around at the devastation. It was clear his emotions were genuine.


    "Speaking of which, you never ask about our origins or what befell us..."


    His troubled gaze met mine. "Naz, I¡ª"


    I gently placed a finger on his lips, shamelessly halting his words. "I understand; you fear it might resurrect painful memories and traumas for a child so young."


    I chuckled at his bewildered expression. No matter how often I reminded myself that Arwin and Leonard were young adults, I couldn''t help but feel like we were the same age, perhaps due to my own mental age.


    "This guy is just too kind," I mused silently.


    "Anyway, come with me to explore my village," I said, seizing his wrist as we wandered the area. His skin felt as cold as ice, yet somehow, it exuded a comforting warmth.


    It was only a brief moment, but I couldn''t shake the memory of how soft his smile had been as he gazed at our entwined hands.


    And as I thought about it, this was both my first time exploring the village and not; a paradox of familiarity and novelty.


    Each time I passed a certain alley or a particular ruined house, a rush of memories flooded back, and I found myself subconsciously sharing them with him.


    "When Zarani and I used to play outside early in the morning, the bustling villagers would greet us with wide, warm smiles. This is Uncle Dazali''s house; he''d give us fresh fruits every day, and they were incredibly sweet! Then, at this intersection, we''d always find Aunt Ferami tending to her plants and flowers. The Kurumi group would often flex their muscles, demonstrating their strength and woodcutting skills. We''d sometimes join other children in games. Our home village was always brimming with laughter and joy. But now..."


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    I halted abruptly in front of the crumbling house at the center of the village; my heart felt oddly heavy. Arwin came to a halt beside me, his eyes mirroring the mix of emotions as mine.


    ''Now, it lay shrouded in eerie silence.''


    This, I realized, was perhaps the very reason I had subconsciously wanted to return to this place. To recollect that there was a time when my life brimmed with happiness, to preserve the memory of my parents'' smiling faces, and above all else¡­


    "Mom, Dad... farewell..." My voice involuntarily broke, the weight of those words bearing down on me.


    It''s odd, it''s not exactly my memories, yet my heart felt like it was being torn apart. It was as if a winter storm raged within my chest, each icy gust a fresh wave of unbearable grief.


    "Let''s give them a proper burial," Arwin suggested. I could only respond with a silent nod.


    He extended his slender arm, palm open with a glowing magic circle, tracing a slow, graceful arc through the air. As his hand moved, a remarkable transformation occurred. Plants sprouted, and various flowers burst into bloom, reminiscent of the kinds Aunt Ferami had always loved and cherished.


    The once bleak and gloomy place now explodes with vibrant colors and life.


    His hand stilled, hovering over the spot where our home once stood. The ground bucked, then heaved, and from the earth, a breathtaking tree sprang forth¡ªa towering emerald sentinel, its roots tearing through the soil, its branches stretching towards the heavens. At its base, a stone appeared, its surface bearing a cryptic inscription:


    [Here lie the Head, his wife, and the people of Ashura Village, lost but not forgotten.]


    The wind sighed through the weathered carvings.


    ¡°Your magic is incredible, Arwin. It''s as if you have an unlimited well of mana," I offered, a weak, bright smile masking the overwhelming sadness. His quiet gaze, however, pierced my carefully constructed facade. The lightness of my words felt utterly inappropriate.


    "You can cry, Naz," Arwin said, his voice gentle but firm. "You''re still young. Don''t hide your feelings."


    His words carried the weight of an adult''s wisdom, yet his current form¡ªsmall, childlike¡ªmade the scene almost comical. The incongruity only heightened the impact of his sincerity. Unconsciously, I found myself leaning on his shoulder, completely disarmed.


    The light touch of his hand on my back, like a feather''s caress, released a tension I hadn''t realized I''d been holding onto for so long. A single tear escaped, then another, followed by a soft sob. The sobs grew deeper, more frequent, until a low, guttural wail escaped my lips, a sound born of years of sorrow for myself and Nazari, shaking my body with its force.


    His presence was profoundly comforting, a stark contrast to the lonely solitude of my past life, where my pillow was my only companion. I didn''t know I could feel this way, I thought, this safe, this connected.


    "...Thank you..."


    .


    .


    .


    .


    .


    Above the joyous chaos of Friezz''s festival, bathed in the silver light of a million stars, we floated in Arwin''s protective bubble. "Naz," he asked, his voice a low murmur, "what do you plan to do? Are you thinking of revenge?" The contrast between the celebration below and the gravity of his question was stark.


    "Revenge?" I echoed, a bitter laugh escaping my lips. "Will that bring back the lives we''ve lost? No, it''ll only get me killed. I''m not strong enough to face a dragon. All I care about is Zarani''s safety."


    Yet, I couldn''t deny the bitterness festering within me¡ªthe burning anger slowly consuming my conscience and the looming darkness threatening to swallow me whole. It pressed against the edges of my sanity, a predator waiting to strike. I craved strength¡ªbody, soul, and mind.


    With desperate resolve, I grasped Arwin''s hand, feeling the blood creep into my cheeks as I squeezed it tightly. The weight of my request, the humiliation of asking for help a second time, gnawed at me. But the urgency of the situation silenced my pride.


    "Arwin," I began, my voice hesitant, "I''m shamelessly asking for your help again. Please, teach me magic, swordsmanship¡ªeverything. Please, teach me to fight! I have to rescue those children, protect Zarani, especially her. It''s my duty as Ashura IX''s son." A fierce determination, despite the shame, burned within me.


    I might never match the King of L''Yuziria''s strength, but I would defend what I held dear.


    Arwin hesitated, his gaze troubled. Before he could answer, a deafening crash echoed from below, followed by a chorus of terrified screams and the splintering of wood. The air vibrated with chaos. A voice cut through the din, sharp and urgent: "Quick, isolate the Omega immediately. His heat will affect the Alphas." The words hung in the air, unfamiliar yet strangely potent.


    ''Huh?'' My brow furrowed.


    ¡®Alpha and Omega? Those were...Greek letters, weren''t they? ''