《Counter Magic》 Chapter 1: The Taste Of Grief Chapter 1: The Taste Of Grief Many people in this world knew the meaning of the word grief; you only realize the true importance of someone when they¡¯d left you to rot by yourself. However Christian Collins simply referred to that occurrence as ¡®karma¡¯. When his first mature relationship had ended, only then did he realized what he¡¯d lost. Everything he knew about life came crashing down the drain. Now after spending four years in the abyss, Chris was determined to make things right. ¡°Jas, I¡¯ve changed,¡± he said, taking her hand on the table. ¡°I have a car, my own place, a good and stable job ¡ª I can take care of you now.¡± The blonde beauty shifted her gaze outside the window ¡ª to the beautiful ocean view under the sunless sky ¡ª then returned her deep blue eyes back to him. ¡°What about your career, Chris? Tell me about it.¡± ¡°I¡­ I¡¯m working in this restaurant¡­¡± he stuttered, thinking about his line of work. In the beginning, he wanted to lie about it, to appear good in front of the woman he loved, but what would happen after that? Lying would just dug him deeper toward his grave. ¡°Doing what?¡± her voice was sharp, like the razor sharp edge of the knife he used to cut his steak. When the clock ticked and Chris was unable to reply, she continued, ¡°Actually, don¡¯t even bother. I can already guess.¡± Chris appeared unaffected, but she could¡¯ve not known how it felt. ¡°Jas, I want to let you know that I have the power to change. In two years I¡¯ll be¡­¡± She cut him off before he could even finish. ¡°Chris, do you even know why I left you in the first place? Even after four years, you¡¯re still saying the same words. You haven¡¯t changed one bit. You¡¯re still the same indecisive guy I met in college seven years ago,¡± she said, disappointment was evident in her tone. Chris swallowed, finding his throat instantly dry. He felt like he was slapped in the face again. Reality slapped him hard. Yes, being a simple fry cook for now, his future looked bleak already. But it wasn¡¯t like he remained stagnant in those four years. Chris, all this time, was saving money to restart his education, hoping that one day he too could finish what he¡¯d started. But now that she reappeared after their breakup four years ago, he knew his time had run out. ¡°Is there really no chance for us to be together?¡± asked Chris. Before Jasmine could even utter a reply, the waiter cleared his throat beside him and asked, ¡°Apologies, Sir, Ma¡¯am, but would you like another refill of your wine?¡± Chris looked at Jasmine, and the blonde lightly shook her head. ¡°We¡¯re fine, thank you,¡± he said to the waiter, giving him a small smile. When the waiter was out of earshot, he murmured, ¡°I miss this.¡± Chris ran his thumb a slow circle over her knuckles, squeezing a reply. ¡°Me too,¡± she murmured back. ¡°You¡¯d be surprised to hear this, but we fry-cooks tend to be romantic.¡± ¡°And quite the show-off as well,¡± she added, her dimples winked at the edge of her mouth. Chris laughed. That was the best word to describe him at the moment. He borrowed his friend¡¯s fancy car and have it waxed before this dinner date, bought a suit for 200 dollars, booked a corner table with an ocean view at an expensive hotel ¡ª he spent a fortune he could¡¯ve used for his education. But seeing her magnificent curves wrapped tightly in her short evening dress, her golden hair in curls - his painstaking effort to prepare was well worth it. ¡°Though we smell like fries and bacon grease, we always want to look our best in front of the woman we love,¡± said Chris. She sighed. ¡°That¡¯s great and all, but I¡¯m sad to say that fry-cooking isn¡¯t enough to support a family.¡± ¡°You know, it¡¯s a rather good occupation if you¡¯re writing a book. Gives you all the time you needed thinking about plot points and such while flipping burgers. So to say, I¡¯d rather not have you discriminate us like that.¡± ¡°Then don¡¯t add it in the conversation to begin with,¡± she retorted. Yes, compared to someone who has a degree, his job could be spit on. Nonetheless it was a job that supported his lifestyle all this time; a fact that Chris didn¡¯t view as embarrassing. ¡°Sorry,¡± Chris said, holding her other hand on the table as well. He brushed his thumbs upward. ¡°I thought your favorite author could help me win you back, but I guess not.¡± Jasmine blinked. ¡°So you started reading?¡± ¡°Well¡­¡± Chris breathed in. ¡°I went under heavy depression after you left. Funny though, you were clumsy enough to leave your books there, so I picked them up one by one, wondering to myself what¡¯s so interesting about them. Maybe it¡¯s because of your similarity to the main heroine that drew me into those books; not in terms of clumsiness or anything like that though, but the way you changed the course of my life. I¡¯m not sure if you left those books in purpose, but it¡¯s thanks to those books that I was able to change. The devastating part is, the main heroine of my life is going away while I could do nothing but to let her listen to me rambling about her favorite novel.¡± Her eyes flared. ¡°Would you rather prefer it that I died instead?¡± ¡°Just like in the ending? ¡ª Bullshit.¡± Chris dispelled the temper in her eyes with an idiotic smile. ¡°You were the best thing that happened in my life, Jas.¡± His voice started to shake. ¡°You showed that to me when you left. And now that same realization will hit me like wrecking ball once again. But you¡¯ve made your decision, and I will respect that.¡± He saw her eyes twinkled with something, and Chris wished it was regret. Under the soothing tune of the background music ¡ª a historical masterpiece Chris requested beforehand ¡ª they continued to talk about mundane things, retort one another, and reminisced the four year gap they weren¡¯t together. Chris knew that staying with her anymore than this would just add to the pain of separating later, but he decided to enjoy their last time together at its fullest. Either way his distraught heart was bound to break again. Although unwilling, Chris visualized a future together with her. To conceived his child, to be the mother of his children ¡ª she was the only woman he desired to be with all this time. Maybe he turned into an old fashioned prick, but Chris, nevertheless, enjoyed the fantasy while it lasted. They weren¡¯t kids anymore; a few more months and Chris would¡¯ve turned twenty-five. He was at that age to take life seriously, or at least that was what he learned. Now cruel it might be, but his chance to seize the woman of his dreams was long over. After their not-so-romantic dinner date, Chris drove her around the bay area and stopped at the place where it was quiet and secluded, away from all of the banging noise of the city. Chris opened the door for her, ushered her out of his newly-waxed car, and put his coat on her shoulder. She slid her slender arms in the sleeves, and with one hand behind her neck, she pulled her hair free. This narrative has been purloined without the author''s approval. Report any appearances on Amazon. Her eyes dazzled as she looked at the dark waters so close before saying, ¡°You don¡¯t play fair, Mister Collins. You¡¯re distracting me with old feelings.¡± ¡°A man can dream, Miss Reed. A man can dream,¡± said Chris, staring at the sea himself. Chris, after all, took her to a place that held great importance between them two. Where they smiled together, young and carefree, and did many stupid things. He grabbed the bag of chips and soda in his car then sat beside her to watch the waves hitting the coastline underneath. ¡°So what else have you been doing while I was away?¡± she asked, taking the bag of chips from his hands. ¡°I told you; I was writing this book.¡± Chris popped their drinks open, took a sip, then dipped his hand inside the bag of chips. He told her bits and pieces of his book, which seemed to have gotten her interest. ¡°When will I be able to read it?¡± She ate some more chips then swatted his hand away when he reached too deep. That question made Chris smile. To see his very inspiration to start writing show interest in his book satisfied him as an author. ¡°Well, if you continue your love for mystery, perhaps you¡¯ll see it in bookstores one day. Unless, of course, you want to go visit my apartment this instant I could make an exception for you?¡± She grinned. ¡°Now you¡¯re distracting me with sex.¡± Chris grinned back. ¡°Now you¡¯re accusing me of something I never did.¡± He reached his hand inside the bag, took out a handful, and began to munch. Chris gazed at the sea longingly. For whatever reason, he felt like it was the right time and the right mood. His vision clouded as he asked, ¡°So, when did you met your fiance?¡± Jasmine gave him a single glance then shifted her gaze down to her fingers. ¡°Just last year, in one of my friend¡¯s party,¡± she muttered in a forced voice. Chris stiffened in shock for a moment. ¡°And he¡¯s already proposed, huh?¡± His breath hitched. ¡°Does he know¡­ that you¡¯re out here with me?¡± ¡°Yes,¡± was all she said. After a long silence, tears began to fall for real but Chris didn¡¯t sob. Not now, he thought. Adding more guilt on her shoulders was the last damn thing he wanted to do. He looked heavenward and searched the dark sky for answers. A time of silence heavier than before ensued. Chris took a deep breath, cleared his nose, then said, ¡°I can see why he did what he did¡­ A girl like you ¡ª strong, smart, with a clear goal ¡ª is in rare supply these days.¡± ¡°Chris¡­¡± Her gaze towards him was filled with compassion and sympathy, but it was the worst gaze she could¡¯ve given him at the moment. The pain in his chest struck him so hard he could hardly breath. ¡°I think it¡¯s best if I drive you back. It¡¯s getting late after all.¡± Chris stood up and offered his hand to her. As they drove away from the beach, she kept her hand away from his reach. She placed it on her thighs and fiddled with her thumb, distracting Chris from driving properly. All too soon it ended, and as the song ¡®Maybe¡¯ played, they reached her aunt¡¯s house in Sunset street. Remembering the sour look they gave him this afternoon, Chris pulled out outside of their driveway. She got out of the car as he did which made him rush over to her side immediately. As her arms struggled out of his coat, Chris reached for his pocket and fished out a small box. He traded the small box for his coat. ¡°Congratulations, Jas,¡± he said. She took a glimpsed of its contents then shook her head and offered him back his gift. ¡°Sorry, Chris, but I don¡¯t want anything that will remind me of you.¡± He closed his eyes for a moment and bit back a sigh. ¡°I see.¡± Many things had changed indeed. She wasn¡¯t just older now. She was a lot stronger and smarter than before. Chris knew that she had enough of him for a single day, but for the last time, he allowed himself to be fooled. Shoving the hand that offered his gift back, he wrapped her arms around her instead. Her body was familiar to him, thinking that the years hadn¡¯t really changed it. Jasmine Reeds, even after four years, was still on the smaller side. He smiled at the thought and emotions that he kept hidden inside spilled out of his throat. ¡°Jas, good luck to your new life¡­ and I¡¯m¡­ I¡¯m sorry. I¡¯m sorry for being jerk¡­ for being an asshole¡­ for disregarding your advices¡­ and, for wasting your precious time waiting. I¡¯m sorry I couldn¡¯t be the man you adore.¡± ¡°Chris, don¡¯t say anymore, please,¡± she pleaded, but made no attempt to remove his arms on her waist. ¡°I understand. But allow me this much at least.¡± He hugged her even tighter and breathed into the fragrant curve of her neck. God, where did they go wrong? He heard her gasp and her hands on his back tightly clutched on his shirt. That made Chris wish for a different outcome, for a happier ending, but it was also his sign to draw away. She came back here to move on, to erase that spinning hurdle of her past filled of Christian Collins, and Chris, realizing this, didn''t want to hurt the love of his life any further. Chris eased back and smiled at her. Her eyes were glittering with tears as he palmed her cheek. He kissed her brow, her nose, then murmured, ¡°I guess I have to go now. Thanks for meeting up with me for the last time.¡± He inhales deeply. ¡°I love you, Jas. There hasn¡¯t a day gone by in these last four years that I haven¡¯t thought of you.¡± ¡°I¡¯m the one who¡¯s sorry, Chris.¡± Her voice began to break. ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡± ¡°Don¡¯t be. Everything was my fault.¡± They were many more that Chris wanted to say, but he couldn¡¯t seem to utter another word, as if a pebble was stuck on his throat. She wanted a bright future; one that he was positive he could give if given more time. But the world wouldn¡¯t stop moving just because of a single person. Closing his eyes, Chris kissed her forehead for the last time. It was the perfect time to say goodbye, but he chose to leave without saying another word. He¡¯d known all this time that it would lead to something like this the second she left him that night. His reaction to his wake-up call was a little too late. But what could he do? Problem after problem involving his family arose back then. Fate didn¡¯t give him a chance to redeem himself properly. In the end, it still didn¡¯t change the fact that Chris was a nobody. That night, the man named Christian Collins, was swallowed in his own grief. Chapter 2: Mr. Lee Part 1 Chapter 2: Mr. Lee Part 1 Seasons passed and Chris was still uncertain on what to do. His plans to finish college went down the drain the moment he used his savings to support his unemployed ass. Even waking up early morning to stay fit had been a chore; a mountain so high that Chris had no intention of hiking. Every time he closed his eyes the unwanted images repeatedly flashed in his head, preventing Chris to build strength and moved on. He found comfort in his illusions about them being together forever, building a home, and making a family. Though he didn¡¯t care to imagine it, even their first meeting appeared like a movie in his head. Chris met her in community college when he was eighteen. Jasmine Reeds was that plain glasses girl nobody paid much attention to, not even Chris. But because of a wrong book he borrowed by accident, he found love. Over the course of time, Chris couldn¡¯t even believe how gorgeous she¡¯d become. But despite her drastic change in appearance her sweet, innocent smile remained, just like that cute, little bookworm he met in the library. And it wasn¡¯t after Chris took her virginity that he found out she was his three-year senior. An event in his life that he couldn¡¯t seem to forget. Her life was already in the hands of a different man, and his was here. There wasn¡¯t anything keeping them connected. Their link was severed that night; when Jasmine Reeds properly ended his four year hardship. Still, he was glad to know that she found happiness. That much he could accept. But why did she have to be so nice? If she could¡¯ve dumped him so harshly like before, Chris was positive he could¡¯ve used that to crawl out of depression. If not for that small little thing, it would be perfect. She wasn¡¯t obliged to love him back, but those lingering feelings she had gave him hope he shouldn¡¯t have. In the end, whatever he put or took out into the situation was his own undoing. Chris covered his eyes as tears began to swell again. All he could do was pressed his fingers into his eyes until the images went away. For the second time he lost her again. However this time, it was the end. Chris took a deep breath, and another to calm his mind. As he thought about it, he now had two choices. Stay here in his apartment until he rots in his bed, or find a job that would sustain him for the next month. This month was the last he could pay his rent. Though surviving on instant noodles did wonders on his budget, he couldn¡¯t survive like that forever. Why did he suddenly wanted to live? Nothing, he thought, was set in stone in this world. Not that he wished it, but what would happen if Jasmine would need his help? What would happen if she needed a place to run away in case her marriage didn¡¯t work out? Considering this, Chris stood up from his shackles and opened his laptop. He saw the document of his novel untouched for several weeks now. He ignored that and went on the internet to search for jobs. As he scrolled down jobs after jobs, he noticed the small white box on his side table. Chris took the box and stared at it with spectral nostalgia. Popping it open with his thumb, he saw a pair of beaded earrings. Jasmine had always loved to wear beaded earrings. Did that cute characteristic disappeared as she matured? As always, whenever he found little strength to stand, it was used on something else. Chris was about to roll back on the bed again when a certain advertisement caught his weary eyes. ¡°Earn over a million dollars a year? Who would believe this shit?¡± No one would be desperate enough to click on something so retarded¡­ except for Chris.
Do you believe in the existence of magic?
Chris snorted as he clicked yes. ¡°I guess my credit card information is next then?¡± As an author, Chris referred to himself as an open minded person. That was why when he read the next series of questions, his eyes squinted in absolute seriousness. The advertisement needed two things from him. Not his phone number, not his credit card, not his name and address, but how many people would remember him if he disappeared so suddenly. The other was a detailed summary on why he was alone. He cursed and laughed in front of his screen. His father went to prison four years ago after shooting a hole through his mother''s head, leaving Chris with so many unanswered questions. All of his relatives lived far away, and he wasn¡¯t really the type of guy to associate with them. His last friend, Carter, was also put behind bars last month due to being caught in drugs. The narrative has been taken without permission. Report any sightings. They want an essay about his life? Then they shall have it! His answer to the first question was obviously zero, but it was still enough to unnerve him. What about Jasmine? As soon as he thought about it, Chris had the answer. * * * Chris curled up and rocked in bed as another nightmare about a successful future bothered his sleep. As he woke up dry-heaving and out of breath, his phone under the pillow rang on vibrate. He reached to his phone and stared at the number on-screen. ¡°Who the hell?¡± Whoever it was, he didn¡¯t know them so Chris decided to ignore the call. He padded down to his fridge and managed to scavenge an apple and a bottle of water. He took a bite and opened his drink then threw the cap on his sink filled of unwashed dishes. As he satisfied his thirst, the phone in his pocket rang one more time. ¡°Hello?¡± He answered out of annoyance, but still kept his tone down. ¡°Mr. Collins, I presume?¡± a female¡¯s voice asked. She sounded so professional it made Chris frown. ¡°Yes, this is him speaking. Who is this?¡± ¡°Agent Kera from¡ª¡± His patience running out, Chris interjected. ¡°Sorry, I¡¯m not interested in answering any surveys for you.¡± ¡°No, this is not about any surveys at all,¡± she said in her defense. ¡°You filled out our application last night so we¡¯re here to talk about the job. If you¡¯re interested in knowing more, please meet us outside your apartment within fifteen minutes.¡± Chris felt his heart hammering in alarm. What kind of automatic machines did they have to track him down like this? He didn¡¯t give out his phone number, his address, or even his name, and yet they were here to ask him about the job? He knew right away he was threading onto something dangerous. However, shady as they may have appeared, Chris had already decided to try the unknown. He peeked an eye through his blinds over his sink and saw a black sedan, with black tinted windows, parked outside his place. A young woman in black suit and pants was scanning the area while holding a phone on her right ear. Who the hell were these people indeed? ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll be outside in fifteen,¡± said Chris. ¡°Understood, but no later than fifteen, sir.¡± ¡°I understand, I¡¯ll be there as soon as I¡¯m done.¡± ¡°Great! We¡¯ll be waiting.¡± Chris decided for a five minute shower. He left his bath as quick as he entered then looked at his face in the mirror. His black hair was rumpled, dark bags under his eyes, and a month beyond a shave. He grabbed his one-dollar razor and shaved his beard then his mustache, and suddenly Chris looked like he was twenty again. He smiled in front of the mirror, mocking himself with his full-toothed, all-american-boy smile. ¡°Damn, that¡¯s me, right?¡± Continuing on after drying himself, he tucked his white long sleeve under his slim pants rendered in a stretch wool blend, donned his 200-dollar suit, and slipped his feet inside his black leather shoes. He left his collar unbuttoned for a more casual look and ran both hands through his hair. Gazing at his figure in the mirror made him laugh this time. If there was one good thing that expensive dinner did to his cheap ass, it was to dress in something fancy. Ready to greet this menacing employer, Chris went outside of his apartment for who-knows how long. The beaming sun was like a sharp blade stabbing his eyes, but he appreciated the breath of fresh air. "Seems like spring has arrived," Chris murmured at the sky. The same woman came out of the driver seat. She had to be still in her twenties, he thought. She had long brown hair tied in a ponytail and green eyes and a heart shaped face. The woman gave him a welcoming smile and offered a handshake. ¡°Christian Collins? I¡¯m agent Kera.¡± Chris accepted her hand, and was then surprised by her firm grip. He took a few seconds to respond. ¡°Just Chris is fine. Nice to meet you, Miss Kera.¡± ¡°Nice to meet you as well, Chris. Come, Mr. Lee would like to have a word with you.¡± ¡°Mr. Lee?¡± ¡°Yes, he¡¯s inside,¡± she said as she opened the door for him. Chris narrowed his eyes at the man¡¯s silhouette then ducked his head inside the Benz. It was time to jump into the fire. Chapter 3: Mr. Lee Part 2 Chapter 3: Mr. Lee Part 2 Contrast to what Chris had expected, Mr. Lee was not of Asian descent. Between the strands of white hair was a reminiscent of a handsome American man and the wrinkles on his face depicted his old age and wisdom. His attire - a bluish Hawaiian shirt for top and cream cargo shorts for the bottom - gave out a sense of relaxation. He was clasping a cane with both hands; one that has a ruby colored gem on top. He seemed like a man who would be listed among the Forbes 400, Chris thought. As Chris remained awed on the back seat, Mr. Lee handed him a small booklet of paper to read. ¡°This is¡­¡± But his eyes widened with surprise and fear as he read the contents. His birthday, his birthplace, his medical records, his job records, his school records, information about his parents, the names of all the women he slept with - everything about himself. ¡°Jasmine Reeds¡­¡± murmured Chris as his eyes came across her file. What the hell? This was done in a course of a single night? He could hardly believe it, but he held the evidence in his hands. There was no other explanation. ¡°I hope showing you that could lessen the things I need to explain, Mr. Collins,¡± said the old man in a matter-of-fact tone. A line of sweat broke out on his brow, but Chris was determined to keep his wits about him. ¡°What do you want from me?¡± Chris asked, looking past the windshield of the car. He noticed two more black cars ahead of them, which he guessed to be part of this man¡¯s cronies. The woman who introduced herself as Kera was also watching him with care, as if saying she would not hesitate to shoot the moment he turned hostile. ¡°No need to be so tense.¡± Mr. Lee placed a hand on his shoulder then squeezed. Fuck it, Chris thought, this old man was right. Now that he somehow attracted these dangerous entities, panicking wouldn¡¯t do him any good and he certainly didn¡¯t have the means to escape. ¡°So, to what do I owe this honorable visit, Mr. Lee?¡± ¡°Sense of humor? Good, I like that,¡± Mr. Lee said in amusement, stroking his chin. He cocked his head on his side of the car; to which Chris followed his line of sight and saw a young couple passed by. ¡°You see, you have a way with words, Mr. Collins; a way of pulling others into the scene. I flew over a thousand miles just to meet you.¡± ¡°Just because of my essay?¡± ¡°Yes, just because of your essay. It made this old man wonder: what inspired you to write?¡± That was it? Just because of the long essay he wrote about his life? No freaking way. If it wasn''t for the situation, he would''ve ignored him and moved on. ¡°Well,¡± Chris smiled wryly as he remembered. ¡°My first rival in love were literature¡¯s hopeless romantics. And I was told that if I want to recapture her heart, then I need to learn who I¡¯m competing with.¡± ¡°So books was her first love, eh?¡± asked Mr. Lee with interest. ¡°Jasmine simply loved books,¡± replied Chris. ¡°I remember her place was crammed with them.¡± The image of her massive bookshelf came back to haunt him. He¡¯d gotten rid of that big baggage, but kept all of the books in his place. ¡°However it wasn¡¯t me, it wasn¡¯t Shakespeare, or the other romantic heroes that won her heart, but a man with a medical degree instead.¡± ¡°Do you want to take her back then?¡± Mr. Lee tapped his cane on the carpet as he asked. ¡°You misunderstand me, Mr. Lee,¡± Chris said. ¡°Yes, each and everyday I think of her. Yes, I miss those times when we were together. Yes, I wish I could¡¯ve given her more. Yes, I wish could listen to her rambling about her favorite books over and over again - but, it¡¯s over. She¡¯s happily married now, and I do not want to be the cause of anything that will make her feel sad. It will slay me.¡± ¡°Good, good. You¡¯re exactly the type of man I need.¡± The old man nodded in satisfaction then turned to face him. ¡°Mr. Collins, if you work for me, I can give you all the money you want in this world. And this includes power, cars, clothes, women - you can have all of this, so much that you would get tired of it.¡± Only an idiot would dive on those honey coated words, however Chris was a guy who had nothing to lose other than his miserable life. ¡°Sounds too good to be true.¡± Chris hunched forward and folded his hands against his mouth. ¡°Why me, though? Don¡¯t you have a family member you could trust to do your dirty work?¡± Find this and other great novels on the author''s preferred platform. Support original creators! Mr. Lee spanked his thigh as he laughed out of the blue. ¡°Money is a dangerous thing, Mr. Collins,¡± he said, obviously amused. ¡°It¡¯s not something you could trust your family with.¡± ¡°Alright, fair enough. What do I have to do?¡± asked Chris. ¡°Mr. Collins, let me ask you one more time. Do you believe in the existence of Magic?¡± That silly advertisement flashed in Chris¡¯s head. ¡°Well, as a writer, I¡¯ve always kept an open mind.¡± ¡°I see. What if I told you; that I have built an empire in a netherworld fantasy?¡± Chris had an urge to laugh, but narrowed his eyes instead. ¡°Such a world exist?¡± ¡°Yes. A world fundamentally different from where we came from.¡± That had gotten his interest. ¡°You still haven¡¯t told me what you need me to do, Mr. Lee.¡± The old man beside him took a deep breath. ¡°As you may have already guessed, numbers is not what I need in this line of work. What I need are men that I could trust.¡± ¡°That still doesn¡¯t change the fact that you could buy trust with money.¡± ¡°Yes, but what I want is genuine trust, Mr. Collins. However if we do this, there is no turning back. Partners we will be, but the moment you betray me, I¡¯m afraid I¡¯m gonna have to erase your existence.¡± His ominous words circled inside Chris¡¯s mind. ¡°Meaning?¡± ¡°Meaning that you, and anyone you¡¯ve had close connections with, will disappear.¡± As Mr. Lee said this, the air had stilled between them two; a type of oppressive air that threatened to choke Chris. Chris averted his gaze from the pair of amber eyes eating his soul. ¡°How is that any different from buying my trust? This is not a negotiation, Mr. Lee. You¡¯re threatening me to obey you instead.¡± ¡°Of course not,¡± Mr. Lee said as he leaned back. ¡°I consider myself a benevolent man, Mr. Collins.¡± ¡°But that¡¯s not what I¡¯m seeing. What I¡¯m seeing is a tyrant.¡± ¡°You wound me. Can you not simply trust this old man?¡± ¡°No. And you keep feeding me these information I¡¯m afraid I would wound up dead either way.¡± ¡°You¡¯re a smart, Mr. Collins. I¡¯m sure you know what¡¯s good for you.¡± ¡°Then leave Jasmine Reeds out of this, and you can have all the trust you want from me.¡± All of a sudden, Mr. Lee turned silent, giving Chris that extra leeway to relax. Conversing with him was just too taxing. He must''ve loved his control in all things. That, Chris thought, was probably the secret to his success. After a moment, Mr. Lee offered his hand to him. ¡°Very well, Mr. Collins. I¡¯ll agree to your conditions.¡± Could he trust his words? No, there was no arguing that this man could do anything he wanted with or without his consent. The fact that he was willing to compromise was enough for Chris to trust him in the meantime. ¡°Alright, I¡¯m in your care, Mr. Lee.¡± Chris smiled and accepted the handshake. ¡°So, are you ready to leave your old life behind?¡± His smile widened. ¡°What is there for me to leave behind?¡± ¡°Good.¡± Mr. Lee brought out a black credit card with Chris¡¯s name on it. ¡°We¡¯ll enter the gate in a week. For now, go out and have some fun. You deserve it.¡± ¡°How do I contact you?¡± asked Chris as he took the card from his hand. He blinked and stared at the card. It really was his. Did he predicted his answer before even coming here, or did he considered pressing his way if negotiations failed? Whatever, Chris was at least glad at the decision he made. ¡°You don¡¯t have to. Agent Kera will come pick you up.¡± He nodded to the woman outside, and she responded by opening the door on Chris¡¯s side. Chris got out of the car, still bewildered at what just transpired. ¡°So, in a week then?¡± ¡°Indeed. I¡¯ll see you in a week, Mr. Collins,¡± was the last he said to him, his amber eyes crinkling at the corner. The brunette got into the Benz, start the engine of their European car, and drove away. Four black cars followed as they left, and in less than ten seconds, they were gone. Chris shook his head as he thought about their meeting. How did he survive talking with such an influential man? Nevertheless it happened, and soon everything he knew about life would change. Again. Chapter 4: She Ain鈥檛 Your Regular Girl Chapter 4: She Ain¡¯t Your Regular Girl ¡°It¡¯s time to say goodbye, my Cassiopeia.¡± Chris kissed the books one by one before he taped the box secured, hoping that another bookworm could make good use of them. He didn¡¯t want to let them go, he didn''t want to part with them, but it would be his first step from moving on. His first step in forgetting Jasmine Reeds. Chris stood up, looking around his apartment. He nodded in satisfaction as a smile so wide curved his lips. Four days ago, his apartment was like a construction zone with all of the built-up crap. The place was so torn up that it was hard to figure out which one is which. Now that hellish cleaning was over, he felt satisfied. Chris glanced at his watch. Fifteen minutes before the local library opens up; a good time to donate the books before the usual saturday sale in the library begins. Taking account of the time, he did one more round up check of the area where the books had piled before. ¡°Hmm, I believe that¡¯s all, right?¡± Chris slipped himself inside his blue hoodie, grabbed his keys, and carried the large box outside in a single breath. Spring mornings near the lakeside had always been misty, and today was no different. The air was chilled, his breathing blew a puff of white smoke, and a group of people wanting to lose weight passed his line of sight. ¡°Nice haircut,¡± a woman with long brown hair commented as Chris walked to his car. She wore a grey basketball wool jacket - that had the embroidery of this year¡¯s champions on her left breast - with blue sleeves and faded denim shorts that stopped several inches above her thighs. ¡°Ah, thanks.¡± Chris ignored the fact that she was leaning, arms crossed, on his car¡¯s hood. Seeing her indifference to the cold made him shrug, but it was none of his business. He continued toward his trunk, put the box on the ground, then frowned. ¡°That voice¡­ Miss Kera?¡± The girl walked closer, raised an eyebrow. ¡°It¡¯s Jude when I¡¯m not on uniform.¡± ¡°Sorry,¡± Chris said, scratching his head. ¡°You look so different I almost didn¡¯t recognize you.¡± Her legs were certainly a major distraction to Chris. She blinked at what he said. ¡°Different? Like how?¡± ¡°Well, for one thing, you look really cute in those casual clothes - and, you¡¯re not carrying your gun.¡± ¡°Ah, you mean this.¡± She unbuttoned the top two buttons of her jacket then showed Chris what she have inside. Chris gulped after the seeing the compact pistol then said, ¡°You couldn¡¯t do without it, huh?¡± ¡°It¡¯s a girl¡¯s privilege, Chris.¡± She smiled sweetly, and Chris resumed what he was doing. He stashed the big box inside his trunk and lightly slammed the lid down, just enough to lock it in place. ¡°So, hey, aren¡¯t guys your age bred to go to bars when they have money?¡± asked the brunette. ¡°Not to mention if you¡¯re a million dollar richer; I thought I¡¯d find you in a lavish hotel sprawled on a king sized bed together with several women around you instead.¡± Chris wanted to sigh but knew not to. ¡°That¡¯s¡­ kinda cliche, don¡¯t you think?¡± The brunette leaned back, tucked her bangs behind her ear. ¡°Better than sulking and crying at least.¡± Chris ignored her childish remark. ¡°So, what were you doing out here, today?¡± She gave Chris a sidelong glance then added a hint of smile. ¡°It¡¯s my day off.¡± Chris nodded, knowing the routine. Ever since his meeting with Mr. Lee, she¡¯d been around to keep him under surveillance. ¡°Really? I thought you¡¯re here to keep an eye on me.¡± ¡°Okay, I admit I am.¡± She slid her hand down his car until she reached the tail light then placed a fist on her waist. ¡°Problem?¡± ¡°No ma¡¯am, and there¡¯s nothing to admit. I mean, it¡¯s kinda obvious.¡± Though now that she decided to wear some more natural clothes, her camouflaged was a success. A success that was a little too late. She flushed, red as a rose. ¡°Asshole.¡± Chris smiled. ¡°I¡¯m actually on my way to the library, wanna have lunch after that?¡± ¡°Sorry, it¡¯s my policy not to get too close to guys like you.¡± ¡°Are you serious? It¡¯s just lunch, and I¡¯m actually a pretty nice guy to hang out with.¡± She snorted. ¡°Try your luck someplace else, Chris. You¡¯re clearly in rebound, asking out any girl that moves.¡± ¡°Quite the opposite, Miss Jude. In fact, I want to enjoy being single again.¡± Chris chuckled, thinking about what he just said. ¡°Though it¡¯s not like I wasn¡¯t single for almost five years now. So, what¡¯s your stance on being friends?¡± A few seconds passed before she replied, ¡°As long as this friendship won¡¯t lead to anything sexual.¡± Chris drew a deep breath then let out a big sigh. Why did it seemed like she had a problem with him? ¡°So hugs, kisses, and spooning are okay?¡± he asked, smiling. That got her attention, her eyes dilating in surprise. ¡°Do you enjoy being an asshole?¡± ¡°No, but if you react so strongly then of course I¡¯ll tease you.¡± ¡°I think you¡¯re forgetting I have a gun and that I spent six years in the army.¡± Hearing her declaration, Chris was quick to raise his hands in mock defeat. ¡°No, ma¡¯am. Shall we go visit the library?¡± Snickering green eyes stared at his face then rolled heavenward when those shades of green landed on his puppy-dog smile. Chris kept his usual attitude and got into his silver sentra, leaving the agent no choice but to follow after him. So much for staying away, Chris thought. He turned toward the girl securing herself on his passenger seat. ¡°Sorry, its a little dusty. You know, dust and pores generating through the years.¡± ¡°And seasons after seasons of you sulking,¡± she added. ¡°In my defense though, I have to say that sulking is a pretty engrossing job. It even helped me attract billionaires.¡± ¡°Just start the car, Mr. Collins.¡± ¡°Yes, ma¡¯am.¡± Chris started his car, and it gave him a sound as if it was a hundred years old. His car needed a lot of work, he knew that, but he just couldn¡¯t simply let it go. This car, after all, was the first symbol of his comeback provided by his fry-cooking. Then, as Chris was about to press his radio on, he saw something that renewed the grief he just recently stamped on. With trembling fingers, he feathered down the picture he secretly took that night. A picture of Jasmine Reeds watching the waves, her blue eyes glued at the sea - it trapped him into a spell. The air caught in his lungs and tears he didn¡¯t realize stung his eyes. Chris closed his eyes as he relished the image in his head. He reached for the picture and threw it somewhere on the backseat. He swiped a hand over the burning pain in his chest, brushed the tears on his eyes aside. Part of him wished like hell it would just go away. The other part was holding on like it was his last lifeline. ¡°You really need to get laid,¡± she scoffed. Chris appreciated the distraction. ¡°Sorry, did you say you want to have a go?¡± If you encounter this story on Amazon, note that it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it. ¡°You¡¯re putting words in my mouth.¡± ¡°Come on, it¡¯s not like sparks are gonna fly and we¡¯ll both go gooey.¡± ¡°And what if that happens?¡± ¡°Well,¡± he reached into her hair and pulled a long section around her shoulder, leaning down to smell it. ¡°If it does, it does?¡± She shoved his hand aside then gave Chris an irritated glare. ¡°I can see now why she dropped you on your ass, Chris. You need to grow up and stop these silly games. Girls won¡¯t be girls forever,¡± she quipped without mercy. She maybe right, yet she didn¡¯t have to slap those words on his face. Chris knew what was wrong a whole lot more regardless of what they might think of him. Defeated, Chris lowered the parking brake and shifted the gear to reverse. He released the brake pedal and allowed himself to roll out of the driveway. Chris drove down the lakeside with windows open, allowing the freshest of breeze to whiff them across the face. Chris didn¡¯t talk. Neither did Jude. They both sat there mute, as if both of them were in a no-talking competition and were serious about winning. In less than ten minutes, Chris was parked on the red lane in front of the library. He popped his trunk open and offered his final farewell to the last happy memory he had of Jasmine Reeds. The lady who helped him was kind, her beaming face brought a warmth to his heart. That alone was enough for Chris to know that his books were off to a pair of caring hands. * * * Chris had the urge to play his music, but was afraid that Jude might complain about his old fashioned taste. When he asked if she had a certain place in mind, she shrugged him off and said she didn¡¯t care. Good, Chris thought. He was craving to eat rice then lucked out to find a small Asian restaurant close by. They got their table as soon as they entered. Chris sat across Jude and enjoyed the view of the supermarket on his right. Though he couldn¡¯t even recall the last time he went out, he felt like the place hadn¡¯t changed much in how he remembered it in his mind. ¡°Hi,¡± an Asian teenager stole their attention. Chris wondered if she was too young to be working but didn¡¯t ask. ¡°Can we get started with some drinks?¡± ¡°Coke.¡± Chris smiled, and the waitress returned a sweet smile. ¡°Water,¡± said Jude, combing her fingers through the long swing of brown hair. ¡°So, what were you doing before you got involve with the old man?¡± Chris asked after the waitress left. ¡°Old man?¡± Jude tilted her head, as if Chris said something wrong. ¡°You know, Mr. Lee.¡± He clarified, stroking his chin. ¡°Don¡¯t say that in front of him.¡± ¡°I know. So, what is it?¡± ¡°Well, like I told you, I did my part in the army. Aside from that, there¡¯s not much to know about me.¡± ¡°Wait, how old are you again? She frowned. ¡°You really have no delicacy.¡± ¡°Sorry, I just like to tease my friends.¡± ¡°I¡¯m twenty-seven.¡± ¡°Damn, so two years older than me then.¡± ¡°What was that sound of disappointment for?¡± The waitress returned with their drinks then asked, ¡°Can I get your order now?¡± ¡°I¡¯ll have some barbecue chicken, large serving, and two fried eggs on top. And I want the eggs well done, please, thank you,¡± said Chris while eyeing the menu on his hands. ¡°And for you ma¡¯am?¡± ¡°Just some veggie spring rolls,¡± answered Jude, folding her legs underneath the table. The waitress left once more after a promise that their food would be ready in a few minutes. Chris examined Jude fidgeting across the table. She must be watching her weight, he thought. Her eyes twinkled in amusement when she met his gaze, as if she knew exactly what kind of ideas were running inside his head. Jude broke the silence. ¡°So, you lived here in the bay area your whole life?¡± ¡°Somewhat,¡± answered Chris. ¡°I was born in New York but never really spent much time there. My parents thought it was a bad place for a kid to grow up so my father got a house here in the bay area instead.¡± ¡°I¡¯ve read your file.¡± ¡°I see. That simplifies things then.¡± ¡°Do you mind if I ask?¡± ¡°Sure, go ahead,¡± he replied without missing a beat. The waitress delivered their food to their table then showed a wide-professional smile before she left. ¡°Umm, why didn¡¯t you tell her what happened to your parents?¡± ¡°It¡¯s because I don¡¯t have to.¡± Chris took a sip of his coke then continued. ¡°Besides, before that dinner date even began, her friends had already told me about her circumstances. Meaning that I already lost my chances before we even meet again.¡± With a flustered look, Jude wrapped her hands around her glass. ¡°But I thought you loved her?¡± ¡°I do. So much that I would give anything for one more hour with her.¡± She was ingrained in his heart and soul forever. The image of her lips, her voice tempting as a siren¡¯s song, it had always touched something deep inside of him. ¡°That¡¯s what I don¡¯t understand.¡± The glint in her eyes sharpened, and Chris suddenly felt nervous. ¡°Sorry, is this another interview?¡± For some reason he didn¡¯t know, that made her laugh. ¡°No, but now it¡¯s clear to me why Mr. Lee chose you among the lot. You¡¯re quite the mysterious man, Mr. Collins.¡± ¡°There¡¯s always the bed to make me talk?¡± Chris winked at her as a part of his joke and Jude dismissed the idea with a shake of her head. ¡°And a big asshole as well,¡± she added, laughing. ¡°Coming from you, I¡¯ll take that as a compliment.¡± * * * The two decided to have a drink. Chris bought two cases of beer and some just-in-case condoms before returning. But as soon as they got back, the phone rang in Jude¡¯s pocket. She answered and listened and put it back. She then looked at him, and Chris knew it was something important. ¡°Something came up?¡± asked Chris. ¡°Something like that. Mr. Lee wants to see you, pronto.¡± She walked toward the door and checked if it was locked, closed all the blinds, then returned back to Chris. ¡°Chris, I¡¯m gonna have to put you to sleep, okay?¡± ¡°Huh, why?¡± ¡°Classified information.¡± Chris couldn¡¯t help but laugh after she took out a giant syringe. Have she been carrying that all this time? Nonetheless he didn¡¯t question her work. It was bound to happen, he thought, so a mere two days early was nothing special. ¡°Ready?¡± ¡°Anytime.¡± Chris nodded then gave her the go signal. The giant needle stung his left arm and he felt some sort of liquid sinking in. Not too long after that, his vision shifted to all direction. Blackness circled in. The books, the delicious lunch, the witty agent - none of these things made sense. Darkness won, and Chris felt his consciousness slipped away. Chapter 5: Welcome to the Netherworld Chapter 5: Welcome to the Netherworld The seductive scent of flowers and tempting night musk gradually drifted past his nose. Chris felt the chilling hand of death brushed along his cheek, as if to wake him up, and that ghastly sensation moved to cup his face, caressing his hair. ¡°It is evening, my lord. Time to wake up,¡± the voice whispered to his ear, enticing Chris to do what he was told. Chris opened his eyes and saw everything enveloped in a crimson glow. As his consciousness settled in, he found himself lying on a gigantic poster bed adorned by velvet curtains. He shifted his eyes around and discovered dark mahogany furnishings all over the room. He sat on the edge of the bed and rested his head in his hands, trying to get his headache to stop. What happened after Jude drugged him to sleep? He couldn¡¯t remember but some of her words repeated inside his head. Mr. Lee would like to see him, but where is he now? His mind was too foggy, his thoughts swirled, and he couldn¡¯t get to the bottom of it all. As he prepared to get up, Chris noticed the golden bangle attached on his left wrist. He examined it closer and saw the tiny engravings circled all around it. He didn¡¯t know what the syllables meant, but he felt like it had something to do with his current predicament. ¡°Oh, yes, that voice?¡± Thinking about it kicked him into gear. As he scanned the wide room, Chris was almost startled. A woman whose name he didn¡¯t know was staring at him with curious eyes. Her skin was pale - almost too pale for human standards - as if no blood was flowing underneath. Chris took a single step closer, and the pale woman responded by cocking her head, her jet-black hair swaying on one side. However Chris paid her unusual reaction no mind. He took another step, on and on the dark translucent floors, until he was standing within arms reach. She appeared to be a head shorter than Chris and her deep blue eyes resembled a caring soul he knew. Is this, Chris thought as realization struck him like a hammer, the netherworld fantasy Mr. Lee was talking about? After all, there was no other explanation for those horns that stood out of her head like a crown. Wrapped in a crimson cocktail dress as if dyed in blood, her curves were otherworldly magnificent. ¡°Hi?¡± This enigmatic woman did wonders to Chris¡¯ imagination; he quietly reached out a hand and traced his fingers all the way to the tip of her horn. ¡°Oh my God, it¡¯s freaking real. Holy shit.¡± ¡°Ah.¡± A sweet moan escaped her lips. ¡°My lord, a succubus¡¯ horns are their most sensitive area - the part that houses are magic. It tickles if you tease me like that,¡± she pouted, and a tinge of red crept on her cheeks. ¡°Holy shit.¡± Chris couldn¡¯t hide the astonishment in his voice. ¡°Succubus?¡± ¡°Yes, my name is Nastassja Thenadre Murumina IV.¡± She placed a hand on her chest then bowed politely at Chris. ¡°May I please have the honor of knowing my betrothed¡¯s name?¡± ¡°Wait, wait, wait, wait¡­¡± Chris raised a hand, rubbed his forehead. ¡°Did you just call me your fiance?¡± ¡°Yes, we are to be wed as soon as my lord settles down,¡± the succubus said, walking to a nearby table and smoothing her fingers across its dark surface. Chris felt his head pound, as he sensed the answer just outside of his mind¡¯s grasp, then his eyes widened upon noticing the bat-like wings folded on her back. Her words were enticing, but it didn¡¯t escape Chris how she tried to avoid him just now. Did she created that distance between them two in purpose? This novel is published on a different platform. Support the original author by finding the official source. To make sure, Chris walked closer and took a book on the table. He sighed, seeing that the book¡¯s contents were alien to him as well. He returned the book back to its rightful place as he nudged their shoulders in purpose, and the girl bristled a step away. ¡°Can you tell me more about this engagement?¡± asked Chris, keeping a close eye on her movements. No matter how riveting it was to be wed to such a beautiful woman, Chris didn¡¯t want any of it. The thought of forcing someone alone was enough to wrench his heart. But Chris needed a purpose at least, if not a decent explanation. The first idea that came to him was Mr. Lee. Did he sent him out here to act some given role? If so, what needed to be done? ¡°How would you like me to explain, my lord?¡± An odd sense of unease settled over Chris as he sat on a chair. ¡°Can you start on explaining how we got engaged?¡± ¡°Of course. Since your father - the benevolent Overlord - did not want to obliterate my clan completely, he sent you, his son, to govern this land instead.¡± Hearing her described this man with the word ¡°benevolent¡±, Chris knew exactly who she was talking about but there were more than one thing he was concerned of. ¡°Wait, slow down. What do you mean by obliterate?¡± She took a deep breath. ¡°My clan was suspected of planning a revolt - an uprising - against the current Overlord so, except for myself, everyone else were hanged to their deaths and killed in public.¡± ¡°That means your parents and family as well?¡± ¡°Yes, all of them died,¡± she said without breaking a sweat, which made Chris frown in worry. ¡°How can you accept this so nonchalantly?¡± Her silent reaction made him wish he didn¡¯t ask. Chris then saw the hurt in her eyes, and it was all he needed to see - he jumped from his chair and caught her in his arms before she fell. Chris scooped the shivering succubus up her feet and returned to the chair he was sitting on. ¡°Father, mother, everyone¡­¡± She bawled, murmuring names after names. ¡°It¡¯s alright, I¡¯m right here.¡± Cradled on his lap, he rubbed her back and pressed her face on the comfort of his shoulder, allowing her to unleash all of her pent up emotions. Those eyes, he thought, do not look at me with those kind of eyes. It shouldn¡¯t be his business but it irritated the hell out of him. * * * The girl had cried herself to sleep. Chris gently set her back to bed and walked out the double doors to the vast terrace connected to their room. He held onto the smooth surface of the terrace¡¯s gemstone railings as he gazed at his land, a land of darkness he didn¡¯t know, beneath him. Chris felt like he was inside a book. Winged skeletons littered the dismal sky and those ones without wings rode atop a skeletal reptile with two legs and a tail. As he looked at its hideous skull, he noticed two azure flames smoldering as its eyes. However menacing they may had appeared, it didn¡¯t terrify him in the slightest, as he didn¡¯t sensed a shred of malice from these creatures. His inspiration to write returned and so many wonderful ideas flowed inside his head. But, above all, there were various things that needed his attention. ¡°Mr. Lee, what is this world to you?¡± Chris murmured with a shake of his head and it seemed like the upcoming days to find out would be the most busiest days of his life. Chapter 6: Bound By Blood Chapter 6: Bound By Blood Opening her eyes from their peaceful slumber, the glimmering sunlight permeated in her vision. She felt warm, masculine arms wrapped around her body, giving her a sense of comfort and security she didn¡¯t ask for. She felt herself grow weak with every passing second cradled against this man¡¯s chest. It wasn¡¯t just because she was under the grace of the sun. No, she grimaced, not to this type of man. Today, after all, marked the beginning of her life as a prisoner; the demon lord¡¯s sex slave. A life she considered more miserable than death. But she couldn¡¯t just die, she couldn¡¯t just give up. This land her ancestors built were world¡¯s more important than her broken pride. Bring it, she thought. Whatever type of man they brought here in her castle would rather prefer he was not born a man. Blood by blood. An eye for an eye. Killing her betrothed wouldn¡¯t even scratch the level of pain she felt when the Overlord murdered her family. She wouldn¡¯t refer to it as vengeance; she would call it retribution. But she decided not to kill him for now. That would be far too easy of a punishment for all of the crimes his father had committed. She would leave him alive to make him suffer and manipulate him to her cause. Grinning with wicked intentions in mind, she raised her head, attempted to slip free, but was met with tough resistance. One of his hands draped on her behind and her angled head only served to press her face on the crook of his neck. She breathed a complain to his ear, yet he only mumbled something in return, as if he heard the naughtiest of secrets. Tears welled at the corner of her eyes, but she sniffed them back. That one humiliation she received after relying on his shoulder was enough to make her pull her hair in disgust. Though she wasn¡¯t melting in particular, she had to admit that something inside was definitely warming up. Her heart fluttered yet she ruthlessly ignored its opinion. Nastassja heard her betrothed take a deep breath then his lips nudged the corner of her eye. ¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± was the first thing he said. ¡°You were throwing in your sleep you had me worried.¡± His voice was apologetic and concerned, yet clear and refreshed. The black haired man sat upright as he released her, grabbed his shirt beside the lamp, and wiggled his head inside. With a single yawn, he slipped himself out of the covers and padded straight to their recliner. He sat down with a plop and sighed at the ceiling. ¡°So, good morning?¡± Good morning? What kind of demon, even more so a demon lord, would appreciate the harmful rays of the sun? This man was certainly weird to their standards, but Nastassja broke the idea loose before overthinking could take root and suck her under. As she sat on the edge of their bed, her gaze met his chocolate brown eyes before she reached for her brush and combed her hair. ¡°Would you like to return to bed, my lord? This hour is way too early for a great demon like yourself to be up and about.¡± The stronger the magic, the harsher the sun¡¯s effect to a demon. But this demon lord never shrugged its rays; something she might need to add on his list of quirks. ¡°Actually, can I ask you to do something for me?¡± he asked. ¡°Yes?¡± Her voice carried a hint of nervousness she didn¡¯t want to convey. He would bare his fangs now that she was at her weakest? She saw it coming, but not after their wedding bells. ¡°Just call me Chris,¡± he said. ¡°That¡¯s my name.¡± What? She almost bit her tongue in surprise. ¡°Chris?¡± Her betrothed got up and sat beside her, then looked straight into her eyes. ¡°Yes, Chris. Christian Collins. Chris for short.¡± Nastassja was quiet, then slowly nodded her head. ¡°Chris.¡± ¡°That¡¯s better.¡± He smiled at her and his eyes had a soft glow permeating with honest concern. She flushed as something carnal surged from the depths of her being. For the first time in the seventy-two years of her life, she started to crave a man. What to do? She bit on her bottom lip, suppressing the desire to eat. Chris looked away, as if he noticed. She looked away too, feeling embarrassed. ¡°I¡¯m sorry about what happened to your family.¡± Chris murmured on her side, grasping her hand gripping the duvet. ¡°To tell you the truth, I¡¯m as lost as you are. I don¡¯t even know why the old man sent me here.¡± ¡°I find that hard to believe,¡± she said, her voice full of distrust. ¡°Nevertheless I want you to believe. Nastassja, can you trust me at least?¡± ¡°You do not need to ask for my permission, sir. I am nothing but your toy to sate your sexual desires.¡± Reddening in outrage, she whirled away from him. Why did she feel so helpless? It was ruining her plans before they even began. ¡°Nastassja.¡± Chris called her name, and his voice froze her on the spot. ¡°What? Feel free to do what you must, sir.¡± She hugged herself as she stifled her sobs on one corner of the room. She heard him get up, his footsteps nearing, then his arms were around her, his nose on her hair. ¡°Good lord, how can you say that? You¡¯re judging me without even knowing me,¡± he said, kissing her hair once. She felt her anger melting from his gentle warmth, but her pride wouldn¡¯t allow it to subside. ¡°There is nothing else for me to know. You two are bound by blood. And until that link is severed, you will forever be my enemy.¡± Her voice was filled with hatred, putrid hatred toward the man who caused the genocide of her family. ¡°But we¡¯re not really¡­¡± Chris mumbled some words, but her mind simply registered it as excuses. ¡°Lies!¡± Sighing as if he gave up, Chris freed her from his embrace. ¡°Look, how about we go out and get to know each other? Maybe then you¡¯ll realize I''m not such a bad guy after all. What do you think?¡± Stolen from its original source, this story is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings. She turned to give him her answer. ¡°Bed. I want to go to bed. It is too early.¡± With another sigh, Chris said, ¡°Then bed it is then.¡± Nastassja shivered as his hand moved along her spine. He bent and swept her up off her feet then he trudged back to where they started. Chris pressed her back on the mattress then stripped his shirt overhead. As much as she wanted to change to a proper sleepwear, she didn¡¯t want any further interaction from Chris. She loosed her crimson dress and let the straps hang on her upper arms before slipping inside the duvet. Chris followed. Nastassja anticipated the movement of his arms, but it didn¡¯t come. She turned around, wondering, and frowned upon seeing his broad back. What was he implying? That she wasn¡¯t even worth a hug? The nerve of this man! Enraged by this belittlement, Nastassja did the same. She felt admonished by the results; on and on, she couldn''t figure out how his mind work. Just like that, the two of them slept against each other¡¯s back. * * * Starting his nocturnal lifestyle, Chris was surprised to find his clothes in the large wardrobe of their room. Even his 200 dollar suit was there, along with his worn out jeans and underwear. Whoever considered this idea had their fun. He remembered Jude¡¯s condescending smile and immediately assumed it was her doing. This, he thought, was no doubt done with her scheming. After getting dressed in jeans and t-shirt, Chris decided to meet his somewhat-emotional wife-to-be. As he stood wondering in front of the foyer of their room, the double doors opened by itself and came inside was a sneering attendant, ushering him to his destination. A question came to mind while they were walking. Where were her legs? However Chris kept the question to himself. This place was enough to turn a regular man insane, but not him. Just like in horror flicks, he heard a feminine giggle on the background that made him turn around. Perhaps due to his reaction, the attendant quickly lowered her head and apologized for the rash behavior of their new girl, promising him that she would reprimand this naughty ghost later on. The sneer on her face reappeared when he left her off with a smile. Chris shook his head and continued. The hallways were large enough for giants to enter and crimson crystals illuminated their pathway. Two soldier skeletons saluted Chris as he went through an iron gate and on the other side were stairs that he couldn¡¯t see the end. Several minutes of walking later, Chris stood in the middle of an intersection. The ghastly maid ushered him to his left, to which Chris finally saw an end to this passage. Chris then heard something that made him halt. ¡°Piano?¡± Enticed by the sublime, lonely music, he entered the room. The maid dissipated into a blue mist as soon as he entered, but chris still offered his word of thanks. There she was, with her wings properly stretched out and her figure basked under the moonlight, Nastassja skillfully pressed the keys without paying attention to his entry. She looked so isolated and alone, yet she exuded an aura of mystery Chris found very enchanting. Funny, he thought. Their relationship wasn¡¯t anything exclusive, and marriage was the last damn thing in his mind. Though despite their differences, Chris honestly wanted to help her. His reverie was broken when the music stopped. She turned toward the blue moon hidden in a sea of clouds then moved those blue eyes to him. ¡°Grandfather had told me once; that an elf¡¯s heart is quite the delicacy,¡± Nastassja said, gazing down at him three steps above. ¡°Though I am afraid our lycans had taken a fancy toward the females; we should probably leave it to them as a reward. What do you suggest we do, Chris?¡± Chris lifted his shoulders in a shrug. ¡°I don¡¯t understand the question.¡± ¡°This is your land, my lord. Your words are absolute.¡± Chris traveled up the marble steps, sitting beside her with one arm leaning on the piano. ¡°That¡¯s quite a fascinating thing for you to say, and yet you disobey me. Why is that?¡± ¡°Because I can.¡± Her gaze sent him a chill that made every strand of hair on his arms stand on end. ¡°And I will not stop until I¡¯ve had my revenge. Until then, feel free to abuse me, my lord.¡± He breathed a sigh of indifference then tucked her bangs behind her ear. ¡°How I wish you¡¯re joking. You seem like a real sweet girl, too.¡± ¡°I can be both,¡± she murmured, smiling sweetly while biting her lip. Chris shot her an amused look. ¡°Maybe. Anyways, can you tell me more about these elves?¡± ¡°Anything for my beloved,¡± she replied with full-on sarcasm. ¡°Our lovely pets caught some forest elves sneaking around our borders. They are currently being detained, as we wait for your judgement in the matter,¡± she explained in a playful tone, which eased some of the tension lingering in the air between them two. However Chris knew he was nearing something he feared the most. Accepting the unknown, that he could do without breaking a sweat, but he didn''t want to corrupt his morals just to fit in this new world. ¡°What if I told you that I want to see them first?¡± asked Chris. She narrowed her eyes as she asked, ¡°Do you fancy an elven woman?¡± ¡°No.¡± ¡°Then we shall leave at once. Would you like to travel on a nightmare, or a wyvern?¡± Chris snorted. ¡°Surprise me.¡± Chapter 7: Many Times Sweeter Than Cake Chapter 7: Into the deeper part of his castle, Chris strolled with Nastassja ascending to a higher level. She wore a short dress as dark as her hair with golden linings at the lower end, and the strapless bodice accented at her empire waist complimented her slim figure. Her gait provided by her fuck-me heels showed an unusual appeal and composure which made Chris, who was watching from behind, nod in delicious agreement. The spiraling stairs went on and on, as if he was climbing a tower with no end, and the occasional light of the moon peering on the arch windows every turn were his only means of light. Chris wasn¡¯t surprised in the slightest. From where he came from, he could keep the light through the use of electricity all night, all day. However in this world, as he predicted, everybody relies on the usage of fire and those crimson crystals decorating their stone corridors. That, and the light of the moon itself. Those were fine and all, but he still felt uncomfortable living a nocturnal lifestyle. What would Nastassja say if she found out he was nothing but a regular human? Rather, he was surprised to say they hadn¡¯t found out yet. Chris heaved a sigh as he thought about it. Reaching the end of the stairs, another gigantic iron door barred their way. The doors opened in front of Nastassja, and two ghost maids welcomed them inside. Another maid appeared out of nowhere and stood in front of Chris, slipping his arms inside a gray robe with golden linings and red stripes on both sleeves. Nastassja walked closer and adjusted the sleeves then fastened the belt around his waist. ¡°The Lord¡¯s Cornelius.¡± She turned to one of the maids and took a sword from her outstretched hands. That sword was belted on his hips, completing his new getup. ¡°Cornelius?¡± murmured Chris as he unsheathed the sword. Extending to at least 75 centimeters, the obsidian blade was engraved by several markings Chris recognized as this world¡¯s alphabet. The guard itself was curved like a pincer claw with a gem attached on the middle resembling a cat¡¯s eye. Fancy decorations for a fancy short sword, he thought. ¡°That sword is my family heirloom.¡± She nodded, her eyes large in excitement and a grin on her face. ¡°Cornelius was the name of a dragon my great grandfather slew on his younger years and that sword was animated from that dragon¡¯s corpse, hence its name.¡± ¡°And you¡¯re giving it to me?¡± Chris knew from their confrontation before not to trust her when she was smiling like that. It seemed like she had a hidden motive brewing in the process. ¡°Yes. You are the current lord of this land, my betrothed - so it is yours by right,¡± explained the succubus with a malicious smile. Chris narrowed his eyes at her. ¡°Nastassja, what are you hiding from me?¡± She tip-toed and whispered softly, ¡°That¡¯s for me to know, Chris, and you to find out.¡± Her smile was so sweet it made Chris feel even more jeopardized. He didn¡¯t know what would become of him; he didn¡¯t care, for now. ¡°Fine, let¡¯s play your game,¡± he said, sliding the sword back to its sheath. ¡°Ah.¡± Her hands entwined on his neck and she brought his cheek down. ¡°It makes me glad you are willing to play, Chris,¡± she murmured, kissing him sweetly. She then gestured something to one of the maids; the maid brought an empty glass of wine to her. Nastassja drew a line around her wrist with her index finger and crimson liquid started to spill from the open slit, filling the glass with her blood a few notches below the rim. ¡°When was the last time you had your meal, my lord?¡± she asked, licking the wound on her wrist close. Chris stared at her, spellbound and speechless for a moment. He couldn¡¯t even tell how long he was asleep before he was transferred here and asking his mischievous wife about it seemed like the wrong choice. But now she started talking about food, his stomach grumbled in protest. ¡°I don¡¯t know.¡± Chris drew his brows, wondering why she asked. ¡°Well then,¡± she offered Chris the glass of blood. ¡°I hope this is enough until we have reached the elves.¡± He didn¡¯t want to consider it, but his curiosity as a writer defeated his common sense. A sip, he thought. A single sip; that was all he was willing to take. He took the glass from her hand then put it against his lips. ¡°Oh, fuck it.¡± Her blood tasted sweet, unlike the horrid taste of iron that once circulated his mouth when a certain father broke his face once. It smoothly went down his throat with a faint undertone of vanilla. Chris never imagined this taste at least. He imagined himself spitting it back out the moment it coated his taste buds. But her blood was unlike anything he¡¯d had before. Stolen story; please report. When Chris came back to his senses, the glass was empty and his hunger sated. He blinked and stared. Chris stood there, confused, wondering to himself if he just did what he did. ¡°Ready to leave, Chris?¡± he heard Nastassja asked. He nodded, unable to utter a single word. As his thoughts were overruled by the taste of her blood, Chris heard the flapping of wind followed by a loud, beastly, growl. This sudden noise shot his eyes back up, looking for the source. Something descended from above the large open space of the ceiling. Covered in black scales and two claws at the points where its wings bent, a large reptile came down and stood on its muscular hind legs. Nastassja walked toward it, and the beast lowered its head at her presence. ¡°Is she not adorable?¡± She patted its chin, giggling, as she pressed one side of her cheek against its nose. Seeing her make such an honest expression made Chris smile and it gave him confidence to approach. ¡°So, this is a wyvern?¡± asked Chris, petting the reptile on its stomach. ¡°Yes, her name is Felicia,¡± answered the succubus. ¡°Come, it is time for us to leave, Chris.¡± The wyvern lowered the entirety of its neck down, allowing Nastassja and Chris to jump on the saddle attached on its nape. Chris sat in front and held onto the reins secured at the spike protruding out of its neckline while Nastassja put her arms around his chest. ¡°Felicia, take us to the borders of Titania!¡± said Nastassja. The wyvern flapped its leather wings and slowly levitated itself from the ground. Then up and above, it flew! ¡°Holy shit!¡± Chris exclaimed as they soared over the bridge connecting the castle to his town. Fanned by the wind, his face felt the swooping breeze, and a sight he called amazing unfolded in his eyes. ¡°This land - our land, what do you think of it, Chris?¡± ¡°It¡¯s beautiful.¡± He felt her arms tightening around his chest as soon as he declared that. ¡°Me too,¡± she said. ¡°I want to protect this place, Chris. The castle, our servants, the town - each and everyone living in here.¡± Though they have plenty of differences with what they consider as normal, Chris didn¡¯t view the residents in this world any less than he do on the other side. ¡°Nastassja¡­¡± Chris paused, finding the right words to come. ¡°You¡¯re not alone, and don¡¯t think that you are. If you really think so highly of this place, then why can¡¯t you just consider everyone as your new family? Must you be so hellbent on revenge that you have to throw everything?¡± ¡°What do you even know?¡± Hatred regained its confidence in her tone. ¡°You know nothing.¡± ¡°Exactly.¡± Chris wanted to say more in that regard but decided to forgo. She wasn¡¯t looking for any cheap words of sympathy; she was a strong girl on her own right. Just like Jasmine Reeds. ¡°So, any idea why the elves are sneaking around?¡± he asked in hopes it could divert them from their current topic. ¡°A few,¡± she replied. ¡°Unlike us demons who generate mana inside our bodies, Elves absorb mana from their beloved Tree of Life through the runes etched on their bodies. Their mystique magics are to be feared, perhaps on par with us to a certain degree, however outside of Titania, they are nothing but regular hunters. My guess is that they came here to expand their territory now that we have a new demon lord.¡± ¡°So news travel fast, eh? Is there any chance that conflict will spark between us?¡± ¡°Yes, but that is why you are here, no? To solve this conflict before it shapes into something big.¡± ¡°I think I told you once; I don¡¯t know why the old man - or overlord as you describe him - sent me here. But I can tell you one thing, Nastassja. I will not stand idly by if they do decide to invade us. Though with the current state of things, I wonder if I¡¯ll be of any use at all.¡± Chris, after all, was just a regular human. He hadn¡¯t even touched a sword in his life, let alone use this magic she was boasting about. Chris do not like violence. He do not wish to be its recipient, and he hate to carry out such an immoral action. But if their fate would hang in the balance, then he would act, even if he had to force himself. ¡°What do you mean by that?¡± asked Nastassja. ¡°Well, we¡¯ll see when the time comes. For now, we need to interrogate these Elves first.¡± With that, the wyvern sped up and Chris wailed like a little boy again. Chapter 8: Elves For Dinner Succubus For Dessert Hi, Small-san here. Thanks for all the feedback and comment guys. I appreciate :) Some gore warning, proceed at your own risk. * * * Chapter 8: Elves For Dinner Succubus For Dessert Seeing an overview of his domain made Chris think it was modeled after a fort. Buildings after buildings were built inside four fortified walls and farming fields stretched out beyond the first wall. The dark skies were patrolled by skull wyverns - or nightmares as Nastassja called them - and winged skeleton knights. Following the road connected to the first gate, Chris reached their destination after almost two hours in flight. Felicia descended, pushing the air aside with her wings, on top of what seemed like a soldier¡¯s barracks. ¡°So, that¡¯s the Tree of Life?¡± asked Chris as he gazed at something humongous way ahead of them. Protruding out of the forest was one giant tree that pierced the skies and half of its trunk was hidden in a thick mist which covered the entirety of the forest. ¡°Yes, the land of the Elves, Titania, was also built around it,¡± Nastassja explained, gazing at the same view as Chris. Now he understood why these two lands had been on a stalemate for so long. Leave the forest, and the Elves were immediately crippled for their lack of magic. On the other hand, enter the forest, and the Demons would find it hard to navigate their way in and out of that thick mist, making them easy targets. Chris frowned, thinking about the state of things. As they stood now, it seemed like there wasn¡¯t a right choice available to him yet. Chris jumped down the wyvern then caught Nastassja on his arms. Turning around, a man of about six feet, wearing a black regency suit with long spiky silver hair, stood on attention, his fist on his left breast. ¡°Please forgive my tardiness, my lord. We did not expect this visit tonight.¡± His words were controlled, which told Chris how frightened he was. ¡°That¡¯s fine. What¡¯s the state of our visitors?¡± asked Chris after setting Nastassja down. No matter how many times he heard it from his wife, he still wasn¡¯t used on being referred to as a lord. ¡°Apologies, my lord, but¡­¡± He lowered his head, unable to continue, and Chris understood what he meant immediately - the feast had begun. What the fuck? His stomach hurled in disgust after seeing their nonchalance about it. Overwhelmed by this sudden churning sensation, he turned, covering his mouth as he heaved, not wanting to vomit. But he forced himself to swallow a huge one then turned back. This, he mused, wasn¡¯t the right place to show his weakness. Chris glared at the man, and he shrank some more, beads of sweat trailing down his brow. ¡°Chris¡­¡± Nastassja softly brushed the hair on her shoulder aside. ¡°It was I who gave them permission. If you would, please punish me instead¡ª¡± Chris raised a hand as he interrupted her speech. ¡°Dammit, Nastassja, that¡¯s not the point here. How many are still alive?¡± he questioned the silver haired man. ¡°Six, my lord,¡± answered the man. ¡°Shall we secure their hearts, or would you rather feast on them alive?¡± Nastassja smiled wickedly. ¡°The latter sounds like a well crafted idea, Chris.¡± She tugged on his arm and pulled. ¡°Let us go, my lord. I can hardly wait.¡± His thoughts were in shambles, losing the strength to resist Nastassja as she dragged him inside the building. They moved down the corridor and discovered a series of doorways. Continuing down a long staircase, his scrambled thoughts returned to pieces after smelling something foul - an overwhelming stench of death. He felt like vomiting again, but showed no deeper reaction this time. A chorus of clanking resounded, banging against metal bars. Chris looked to see the entire corridor filled with cells, a prisoner sticking his arms out and his head on the bars. ¡°Aaah¡­ No!¡± wailed the prisoner, his finely sculpted features were wrench in terror. Chris noticed the man¡¯s pointed ears, and he recognized him as an elf in his mind. Some sort of monster loomed behind the elf, twisting his neck and dragging him deeper back inside the cell. Blood splattered on the wall, silencing the elf¡¯s scream that followed. ¡°Fuck¡­¡± An angry mutter escaped Chris¡¯s lips. ¡°Lead me to these Elves.¡± With that command, the silver haired man ushered him in front of a large cell. Chunks of what seemed to be internal organs littered the floor and the world constricted to that tiny focal point on his sneakers - which was covered in blood. Seeing that widened his eyes further. Chris abandoned the thought of following the crimson trail and looked at the live prisoners instead. At that moment, Chris felt terrible. Four Elven girls were quaking in terror as he stood there and watched, wondering to themselves if it was their turn coming. They hugged their bodies, as if clasping a gem away from a greedy merchant. To his surprise, however, one them snapped and spat on his face. Before Chris could even gather his thoughts to respond, he heard heavy footsteps; there came a clanking of keys and the Elven girl who disgraced him was dragged outside. Her arms were yanked behind her back, yet the fire in her emerald eyes hadn¡¯t died. ¡°Eat me,¡± she said to Chris, smiling, as she showcased her long legs. ¡°Hurry it up, Demon. Or would you rather have me in bed first?¡± she snarled. He didn¡¯t like her words, but he knew it was her circumstances that brought it, so Chris merely sighed. ¡°Clean this place up and give these girls some fresh clothes. I want to have a word with them tomorrow.¡± ¡°Yes, my lord.¡± The man was quick to respond. If these Elves knew they¡¯d get caught from the beginning, then what were they gambling for? There must be something, he pondered, something that was worth risking their lives here, which he needed to find out. This book''s true home is on another platform. Check it out there for the real experience.However as of the moment, Chris wanted nothing but a good rest. He¡¯d seen too much in a single night. This world was indeed different, he remembered, a world fundamentally different from where he came from. He had no right to judge them, as he didn¡¯t know what he would do if he was born a Demon, but he considered this brutality crossing the line. Chris turned to Nastassja, who had her arms crossed because of his decision, and said, ¡°Nastassja, I¡¯m not feeling good at the moment. Is there a room I could use to sleep on?¡± Nastassja sighed and began to stride away, disappointment was clear on her face. From her words before they left the castle, he knew how intrigued she was to add an Elf to her palate, but he couldn¡¯t satisfy that request. Not now. Chris followed upstairs, clutching his stomach. He, no doubt, would have nightmares tonight. * * * She didn''t know why he acted like he did but whatever it was, his lost expression delighted her; her lips curved into a sweet smile. Still, she couldn¡¯t understand his reasoning on why he showed mercy toward the Elves. They trespassed on their territory, spat and snarled at his face, and even belittled him. Perhaps his real intention was to give those girls false hope? Nastassja shook her head. The expression he gave them were too gentle for that - too gentle for a Demon lord to have. Like usual, before she realized it, her thoughts were drawn into over thinking. A veil of mystery surrounded him; he was unlike any demon she ever came across. His reaction to drinking blood was weird, he didn¡¯t weakened under the sun, and either he was just foolish or downright cruel, she would know the answer soon. Nastassja ushered him to one of the reserved rooms in the fort, and Chris entered, going straight to bed. ¡°How fast can you regenerate, Chris?¡± she murmured without knowing. Though she regretted not having a taste of those elves, the urge to eat his husband replaced that discontent. Desire formed in the pit of her stomach. How fast could he replenish a lost limb? Being a Demon lord, it was probably instantaneous. Chris paused at the act of removing a shoe, wide eyed and mouth agape. He had already stripped his shirt and his sword was leaned on the side table. A full minute passed and he still hadn¡¯t shaken out of his bewilderment. Her putrid hatred toward him was set aside and Nastassja plopped on his lap, wanting to devour him. ¡°How fast, Chris? Answer me.¡± She clutched on his shoulders and squeezed. Like she heard his unspoken thoughts, the hot rod straining from his trousers suddenly nudged her thighs. She bit on her raspberry lip, as she looked into his dark eyes, searching for answers. He smelled delicious and his chest was beautifully made. All for her - she wanted him. Badly. ¡°Nastassja, tonight¡¯s kind of bad time for me,¡± Chris said, looking away. A dangerous glint sharpened her eyes. ¡°You don¡¯t believe that was enough to make me go away, do you?¡± She smiled with diabolical amusement. She reached for his neck and sank her fingernails on his skin. Chris showed a pained reaction but was ruthlessly ignored. ¡°Nastassja,¡± he murmured, his breath scorching her lips. With burned cheeks, she breathed back. The time to lead this man had come, but their roles reversed on his next actions. He moved his hands to the side of her breasts, under her armpits, and fondled them so delicately. He cupped them slowly over her dress and gave her a gentle squeeze. A small delicious moan slipped out. ¡°You are a dangerous man, Chris. I am supposed to hate you, yet¡­¡± ¡°Trust me.¡± Chris reached a hand, brushed his thumb across her cheek. ¡°Nastassja, I¡¯m not asking you to trust me overnight, but you need to give me a chance. I want to help you. Just so you know, you and I are in this mess together, whether we like it or not.¡± ¡°Why do you insist on having my trust, Chris? It has nothing to do with you. I want you and your father dead. Simple as that.¡± ¡°Because I see myself in you.¡± The same soft glow had settled on the corner of his eyes, melting her insides to submission. ¡°Our circumstances are different, yes, but I lost the most important person in my life too. And no matter what I do, she won¡¯t return. I learned that the hard way, Nastassja.¡± ¡°So, what are you implying?¡± she asked with an edge in her tone. ¡°Give up and move on.¡± Chris moved both hands on her face, brushing her cheeks softly. ¡°Let me take care of you.¡± ¡°Nonsense.¡± She turned her face away. ¡°Look at me, Nastassja. I¡¯m here - the family that you¡¯ve always needed. Wanted. Even if the whole world would cast us away, as long as I exist in this world, I''ll always be on your side.¡± Tears she didn''t foresaw trickled down her face. She stared at her reflection in his eyes as she listened to his words that were ragged with emotions. Words that she wanted to hear all this time came from a stranger. ¡°Trust me,¡± he continued in a low and gentle voice, ¡°and I will show you that you would have no more need for tears.¡± Those words were her undoing. Nastassja began to cry in earnest, wracking sobs that caused her ribs to ache. Chris pressed her face on his bare chest. Could she trust his words? Her head said no, but a tiny fraction of her heart was willing to try. ¡°My chest hurts, Chris,¡± she gasped. ¡°It hurts.¡± ¡°I know. I¡¯ll listen to everything.¡± Chris kissed the top of her head. He held her, patting her back until her sniffles ended. Time passed and she did nothing but enjoy his warmth while savoring the dripping blood on his neck. Chris trembled before he passed out, and Nastassja snuggled to him with a satisfied smile. For that short moment that they were asleep, she felt soothed and healed. However what greeted that happiness the next morning was a crisis that would change their lives. Chapter 9: Flowery Petals of Death Chapter 9: Flowery Petals of Death Chris woke, thinking it must be daylight. As he tried to sat upright, he was hindered by the lump of feminine flesh clinging like a vice-grip on his chest. Her strength unknown to a young lady destroyed any means of instant escape. Chris sighed as he gave up. The feeling of her hair, the edge of her horn nudging his cheek, her warmth permeating on his chest - when was the last time he slept so peacefully? He couldn¡¯t even remember the last time he held a woman in his arms like this. Definitely not in those five years of solitude, Chris thought with a smile. He raked his hand down the stream of black hair, in between her black wings, cascading to her treasured softness. He satisfied himself by cupping one cheek then the other, but the moment Chris retrieved his hand, the Demon¡¯s eyes shot open. She stared, flushed and tongue-tied, yet her blue eyes carried an unusual glint. She chewed on her bottom lip then smiled sweetly, and Chris felt his life in imminent danger. Last night told him what that expression meant; that Chris was part of her rotating food chain. Remembering how succubus were described in the books he read - the ultimate seductress who apparently feeds on a human male¡¯s sperm - Chris felt even more reluctant to have any sort of sexual activity with his wife. To dispel that feeling of dread, Chris moved his hand upward to her left cheek then brushed his thumb across her left eyebrow. ¡°Good morning?¡± Nastassja trembled, closing her eyes for a moment. ¡°What do you find fascinating about mornings, Chris? Rather, a Demon as strong as yourself should be hating the sun.¡± Nastassja stood up, wobbling, and moved the curtains they forgot to close last night. ¡°This much light in the morning weakens a Demon of your caliber incredibly. Please be more of wary of your health, it concerns me.¡± Those last words drew a grin on his face. He wondered how she''d react after knowing the truth - that he wasn¡¯t a Demon to begin with. Chris dismissed the idea for now. It wasn¡¯t the right time, nor the right place. Chris watched her stretched her wings before he slipped out of the bed and got up himself. ¡°I¡¯m hungry.¡± Chris complained, rubbing the bite marks on his throat. She really overdid it last night. ¡°Though I want a quick bath before anything else.¡± Chris yawned a big one. ¡°If it is a bath you need, then we have one here in our room.¡± Nastassja walked to the door on her left, opened, and showed Chris what they have inside. ¡°Faucet?¡± Chris blinked in his bewilderment. It was his least expectation to see a device here that was quite similar to the other side. ¡°Yes,¡± she answered. ¡°This room is plumbed to a nearby well.¡± ¡°I see,¡± mumbled Chris. ¡°But where did this technology came from?¡± Nastassja tilted her head, running her index finger to the corner of her mouth. ¡°A little over a decade ago, my father brought this innovation back from the western continent. Directly to our northwest, across the seas, is the land of the Demon Artificer - your elder brother, I assume?¡± ¡°My elder brother?¡± So he wasn¡¯t the only one chosen by Mr. Lee? It made sense in his mind, but he still found this information hard to swallow. Then again, he didn''t really care. What he would find harder to believe was that if he was the sole desperate man to click that advertisement. As he thought about it, Chris laughed. But that laugh didn¡¯t do his wife good. Her expression darkened instead. ¡°You do not know? His continent is well known for its transportation vehicles that run on a combination of steam and magic. Everything is well organized - unlike us who still fancied the use of Sleipnirs.¡± Her words suggested her honest concern toward their residents. Like a caring mother, she would jump onto anything that could help improve the lifestyle of the demons here - her attribute that attracted Chris the most. Despite his urge not to, the smile on his lips reappeared. ¡°So, how far is the western continent from us?¡± Nastassja crossed her arms as she pondered. ¡°Hmm, if I have to use Felicia as a traveling basis, then it would take us shortly after the sixth of Velmont.¡± ¡°And how many nights of travel is that?¡± Chris asked while fiddling with the faucet, and though it seemed undrinkable, water - clean enough to use for bathing - did came out. ¡°It is Rosalia 24th, so seventeen straight nights of travel if we do decide to leave now. Why?¡± ¡°Nothing. I figured I want to see the place myself, but not after we finished these pressing matters at hand first.¡± ¡°I agree.¡± She nodded without reluctance. ¡°So, want to take a bath together?¡± Chris considered his luck with a hint of smile. Who was he kidding? A pretty woman is a pretty woman. He wouldn¡¯t want to waste this chance now that the atmosphere between them two stepped out of the danger zone. But her response to his joke made him blink. On the next blink, her dark dress was pooling on her feet. Mamamia! Chris blinked again, and this time she jumped on him, wearing nothing but her skin. * * * Chris traced his steps back to the dungeon, a certain part of his body was aching with pain. They were like a pair of vampire couples in the bath, sucking each other¡¯s blood as if it was the high school norm. Still, where were the Lycans when he needed them? The morning sun was disastrous to a demon, that much he could understand after Nastassja went limped on their bed again, but this kind of carelessness was fatal. He would need to reprimand these trackers later but, for now, conversing with the Elves was his top priority. Chris found a torch lighted by a crimson crystal before he entered the same wide room down a staircase below. The stench of death was gone and the prisoners wore a clean match-up robes of grey and white. ¡°Good morning, ladies.¡± Chris tapped their cell twice, and heads began to turn, fear etched on the Elves¡¯ beautiful faces¡­ except for one. ¡°You, the feisty one, would you mind coming closer? I¡¯d like to have a word with you.¡± After all, he found no use on questioning the girls who were still terrified of him. If you encounter this narrative on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it. ¡°Kill us, and be done with it,¡± said the blonde elf, not moving an inch from her sprawled position, her back pressed on the wall covered with an intriguing glyph. ¡°In the end, you Demons are just animals seized by the power of your lust. The only fate that awaits us is death, so why prolong our lives? Ah, I know. You wouldn¡¯t be satisfied unless you¡¯ve addled our mind and body in repeated humiliation - a typical behavior from a Demon. How sickening.¡± ¡°Shut your mouth,¡± Chris snarled, more annoyed than he ever was. ¡°Yes, we are different. But even us Demons have our own set of morals.¡± She snorted. ¡°Babble whatever excuses you want - your hypocrisy makes me want to vomit. Men like you would debase any helpless woman in front. How is that any different from a livestock animal?¡± ¡°I see.¡± The injustice of her words burned inside of him, and he knew that he couldn¡¯t allow it. He still didn¡¯t know what it meant to be a Demon but it just wasn¡¯t fair to judge them like that. ¡°Curse me all you want - you may even go as far as to call me a heartless son of a bitch - but that is exactly how you will end up if you don¡¯t cooperate.¡± ¡°Why didn¡¯t you say so from the beginning?¡± she scoffed, and it was well received. Chris glared back at the Elven woman. ¡°No, I have nothing to prove to you. Your delusions brought this judgement upon yourselves. Those of you who want to return home, just answer my simple questions and you will have my permission to leave.¡± Those words gave life to the other three. Chris began to question them one by one. ¡°So, what¡¯s the purpose of this investigation?¡± ¡°I¡­ We were sent here to see how the new Demon Lord would react,¡± the nearest one said, all too happy to oblige. ¡°And you came here knowing that you could die?¡± Chris asked in his frustration. ¡°What kind of standards are you following to obey an order like that?¡± ¡°All is the will of the Goddess.¡± She clasped her hands together and knelt, as if offering a silent prayer. Goddess my ass, Chris mocked in his mind. He certainly wouldn¡¯t follow a God that would send him to his death. The other two said the exact same thing, but he let them off with a simple sigh. It wouldn¡¯t do him any good to vent his frustrations on these girls who were clearly used themselves. Just when he was done with the questions, the door opened heavily and a Lycan descended on the stairs. His long silver hair was a giveaway - it was the man who greeted him on the roof last night. But something was different about him. Chris didn¡¯t like the way he growled and gritted his teeth aggressively. He noticed some sort of flower growing out of his left eye. The vines protruding out of the flower''s base slowly reached the ground as the man approached in slow steps, heavy boots clomping their way down the stone corridors. His body started to distort with every step. He grew fangs, claws, and an extra set of jaw - it was unlike anything Chris had ever seen before. His instincts screamed for him to dodge, and he did. Chris rolled to the side, and the vine-like tentacle that went past him was strong enough to destroy a cell - the cell containing his Elven prisoners. The Elves scurried out, one by one, and Chris watched them all flee, unable to do a thing to stop them. The sudden unfamiliar stomping caused him to focus on the foe ahead. The transformed monster glared at Chris, and albeit deformed, he could still see the man¡¯s face. A line of sweat passed in between his brow, but Chris was determined to keep his wits about him. Chris shook his fears and began to rise. He drew his sword and bent his arms up against his body, as if he readied himself to take the swing of his life. ¡°Come!¡± Chris clasped the handle of the sword and treated it like a baseball bat. WIth those words, the monster ran forward, jumped in the air, and brandished both claws at Chris! But Chris knew what he had to do. He took a single step forward and swung his obsidian blade. Sparks flew as his sword went through the monster¡¯s claws, and he felt its flesh cut from his sword to arm - an odd sensation he couldn¡¯t describe. The monster was cleaved in half and down into a heap on the floor. ¡°Did that do it?¡± Chris wiped the blood off his face. He knew he what he did was ruthless but he needed to heed his instincts to survive. The same crunching sensation developed in his stomach, and he felt like vomiting again, but Chris saw something that made him narrow his gaze at the corner of his eye. Something started to sprout from the monster¡¯s corpse - it was the vines forming together like a tree trunk. But the surprises didn¡¯t end there. A dark shadow, around five feet in diameter, circled around it as the epicenter. All of a sudden, dark energy emerged from the ground, swallowing the plant whole like a hungry mouth. None, no traced was left behind as the shadow returned back to his sword. ¡°Cornelius - a cursed sword.¡± Chris turned his head at the familiar voice. Nastassja came down the stairs carrying a set of heads, one on each arm. ¡°Once it had a taste of the your mana, the curse will activate and chase you as far as the abyss, whoever you are. I mean to kill you and your father with it once it had gathered enough strength.¡± That made Chris gulp, as if the icy grip of death claimed his legs. ¡°Surely you think different now?¡± ¡°Maybe.¡± Dark flame erupted on her fingertips, burning the heads she was carrying and leaving nothing but ashes of their former glory. Nastassja clicked her tongue. ¡°They tricked us, Chris. These Elves were meant to be eaten from the start. The seeds were already planted in their body before they even came here.¡± ¡°Seeds?¡± ¡°Yes, Tree of Life seeds.¡± Since the Elves lacked the ambient mana produced on their territory, they used the energy inside the Demons as fertilizers instead - he got that much from seeing the results firsthand. Chris didn¡¯t have to ask what they needed to do. There was no need to harbor any stubborn hope. It was clear - all he needed to do now was to stop this madness from spreading.