《A DREAM OF CREATION》


 Chapter 1: Dreamer

    The world is shattered, and that was her dream. Yuriel stood calmly, placing various books on the lower shelves, ignoring the roars of destruction. Her face is calm, indifferent to the torn space that shredded the world apart.


    When her work was done, she briefly glanced at the nonexistent part of the library, before turning to her side. She found another person, a strange faceless girl. Upon further scrutiny, Yuriel realized that it was speaking to her, but she couldn''t hear it''s voice, not a single word. Soon, she left the place and did not bother with the anomaly, venturing into the hallway.


    The campus was usually filled with students, bustling, and loud. But now there was only mist like wraiths, and a grey world that enveloped the surroundings. This is not my dream, Yuriel thought, upon reaching a certain classroom.


    When she arrived, there was a shadow standing in front of the window, it''s appearance barely discernible. Suddenly, the hallway is flooded by a surge of light and Yuriel entered, slamming the door.


    When she turned to look at the window facing the hallway, silhouettes of a crowd appeared. They began to chatter, like a scene you would find in a supermarket or rather, the usual interactions between students every lunch break. But upon further inspection, Yuriel would find their words unintelligible and also, terrifyingly dreadful.


    She didn''t dare move, knowing how unpredictable dreams could be. Perhaps a second later, she would find those silhouettes clawing their way in with inhumane vestiges. In a dream, everything that could go wrong will definitely go wrong.


    Meanwhile, the shadow spread it''s body and devoured the entire classroom. What appeared was something, a thing, unknown, in the shape of a human being. It faced Yuriel, and she looked back, observing each other like a statue of pristine white and obsidian.


    The owner of this dream seemed lucid, able to respond to her foreign presence. However, it might be more accurate to call it a nightmare, born from its deepest emotions.


    As soon as she thought this, a knock sounded on the door. Their attention instantly shifted, and they saw a large silhouette standing outside, watching them eagerly. The owner or suffice to say, the dreamer, shrugged as he sat on a nearby chair. After a while, it glanced at Yuriel once again, carefully sizing her like a piece of art.


    "Are you an angel, perhaps?" It asked with a whispering voice. "Am I in heaven?"


    "No, and you''re not." Yuriel responded.


    The shadow merely shook it''s head, then it disintegrated as it''s nightmare came to an end. The light vanished, leaving the world in its usual broken state. Opening the door, Yuriel could see the silhouettes screaming, fading from existence.


    She stepped outside the school, where a colorful yet unsettling world greeted. It was strangely bizarre and unnerving, yet Yuriel remained unmoved. All around her, devastation and chaos unfoldeded, creating a vast ruinous world. The dream of shattering, something Yuriel had witnessed in all of her dreams.


    Whether this was a vision of the future, Yuriel didn''t know and neither does she cared. The shattering is way beyond her, even humanity might not be able to survive when it comes. Although, Yuriel didn''t actually believe in this dream, but instead saw it as byproduct of her mind.


    Not to mention, this dream is merely an amalgamation of her normal every day life. While she pondered these, Yuriel noticed a convenience store ahead and wondered if she should indulge herself in dream foods. Then she found a cat, reading posters just outside the store with human-like emotions.A case of content theft: this narrative is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.


    It was petite and cute, with snowy furs that immediately attracted Yuriel''s attention. Her facade slipped for a moment, then she got close to the cat.


    "Whatcha you staring at nyaaa?" The cat spoke, hinting discomfort in her words.


    Meanwhile, Yuriel seemed delighted as she recognized its voice. Before the cat could react, she was already in Yuriel''s embrace, screaming.


    "Unhand me!" It said, resisting her grasp. "Wait, stop!" It continued on growling. "I''m telling you!"


    After a while, Yuriel dropped her to the floor where she laid down for the next few minutes. She wasn''t just any cat, this is the manifestation of Yuriel''s closest friend, Ainsel. She was probably pulled here, taking an appearance of her extreme likeness.


    "Ainsel likes cute things after all." Yuriel muttered with soft tenderness, before staring at the crow observing from above.


    Unlike the intelligent eyes of Ainsel, this crow had malice beneath its deep irises. However, it didn''t do anything rash and simply observed while the two were playing.


    "It''s here again nyaaa!" Ainsel suddenly exclaimed, glaring at the crow with burning hatred.


    "Do you know him?" Yuriel asked, trying to recall this scene from the real world.


    "Of course, it''s that damn stalker of mine." Ainsel responded. "Wherever I go, he''s always there."


    "I see." Yuriel says, then scrutinized the crow once again. "Crows are often seen as symbols of death, but it was also considered a guidance."


    As she ruminated about that, Yuriel determined it was time and she bid Ainsel farewell. Once again, she continued her journey towards her destination.


    It didn''t take long, and she finally arrived at the train station only to find it empty. There were no people, like a ghost town devoid of residence. Even with that, it continues to function as trains ran despite having no passengers.


    Soon, a train stopped and Yuriel entered alone where she''ll head straight to her home. At least that''s what she thought, waking up again, then continue her life as if nothing happened. But it wasn''t the case, not when the train exited the tunnel and pure white engulfed her entire senses.


    ......


    Everything felt like a dream. Her life, her memories, ever since Yuriel arrived in this white space. She didn''t know what was happening, nor does she remember anything, other than a vague recollection of something.


    For eternity, she had been sitting there like an empty shell. Her awareness blank, barely able to think and fathom her situation. Nothing existed in the world around her, there was no time or death, only her existence.


    Such a feeling of emptiness, it was as if the world had abandoned her in the hollows. The sensation, it was so terrifying that she yearned for death.


    It''s like falling into the abyssal depths, or floating alone in the cosmic void.


    Only this time, she was truly alone, and these two seemed like heaven in comparison.


    Then, at some point, she regained her awareness. She was able to perceive the infinite space, where her existence felt illusive and unreal. After that, she mindlessly wandered into the vast endless plain in silence, walking with no purpose or sense of self.


    Time passed again, for so long, she completely forgot everything and became a blank slate. Her consciousness reformed, and it begun forming incoherent thoughts, but a sign of mind nonetheless.


    Just when it happened, a fierce radiance appeared and consumed Yuriel without her notice. Pain and sensation washed over, and her soul screamed while darkness banished the light.


    Before she knew it, the hollow world disappeared and Yuriel was sitting inside the train. Shaking her head, excruciating pain coerced through like migraine. Yuriel''s expression became heavy, overwhelmed by the agony that can be describe as, her brain being fried.


    "What the hell was that...!?" She muttered, confused.


    Yuriel''s mind was full of pain and information, that she couldn''t even think at the moment. Her thoughts were incoherent, and whatever she thinks instantly derailed into different directions.


    But after a while, Yuriel went back to normal. She was able to think again, and slowly, she processed what happened in the dream. From the very beginning where she opened her eyes in the library, to the dreamer, Ainsel, the train station and.... The very end of her dream.


    If she were to describe that dream, it was harrowing, completely different from her past experiences. But Yuriel knows, and for the longest time, her dream has been changing in nature,


    perhaps evolving. It started from a lucid dream, which was so vivid, she mistook it for a real memory.


    Then it was able to replicate her everyday life, twisting it, and even incorporate others'' dreams into her own. And now, she had been affected both mentally and physically, something that never happened before.


    Pondering for a few moments, countless thoughts filled her head. But the train abruptly stopped, halting whatever she was thinking. Yuriel went home first, listening to music along the way, soothing herself and the throbbing pain that remains.


    Entering her house, Yuriel saw her mother sitting at the table, fast asleep. It seems she had been waiting for her, even calling a few times to check her condition. Yuriel became emotional for some reason, as if she hadn''t seen her mother for so long.


    Of course, that couldn''t have been the case. But she felt it, which made the last dream.... Or nightmare even more terrifying. But before all that, she decided to wake her up and ate dinner. Only then could she think things through, and decide her next move.

 Chapter 2: Zero space

    Taking a short bath, Yuriel returned to her room and sat down in front of a mirror. She stared at her delicate reflection, drying her wet black hair with a towel. Amidst all this, she observed her eyes, now more sunken, hiding an ocean of madness behind her indifferent gaze.


    Noticing this, Yuriel''s body trembled as she realized the severity of that dream. She had been changed in subtle ways, but it was definitely there. Looking back to the dinner earlier, even her mother noticed too and became concerned.


    Clicking her tongue in frustration, Yuriel wore her pajamas and went towards her desk. There was an open note, written with words that looked like random scribbles of an asylum patient.


    It was a description of Yuriel''s dream, describing the feeling of nothingness she felt in the white space. All of it were still vivid, the sensation of complete nothing, despite having awareness.


    Agony seeped from her bones, and her mind began throbbing in pain just by remembering it.


    Grimacing, Yuriel lifted the note and flipped through its pages. It was also her diary, used to record her dreams, or her experiences in the dream space. It had been years since she first encountered this phenomenon, but not until recently did it got worse.


    Staring at her bed, Yuriel couldn''t help but furrow her brows and frowned heavily. She did not want to experience that nightmare again, but she certainly have no choice in the matter.


    Yuriel had thought of an idea to resist that white space, but she wasn''t confident enough to succeed. She knew what she''s capable of, and her ability to control her dream only works to a certain extent. What she needed is a powerful will and mind, that alone allowed her to endure all these years.


    Yuriel closed her note, placing it towards the drawer. There, she found a family portrait, partially burned from the side. Aside from Yuriel and her mother, her father was cut from the photo. Obnly his lower torso was visible, while the rest had been turned to ashes.


    Yuriel sighed, closing the drawer before carefully laying down on her bed. There were many things for her to do, like school projects and assignments. But Yuriel couldn''t be bothered after this recent development.


    Right now, Yuriel''s mind was in turmoil and she forced herself to calm down by taking deep breaths. Time flew by, and Yuriel couldn''t sleep as her eyes rejected the sense of drowsiness.


    My body is afraid, she thought, noticing it shaking as if facing an inevitable death. However, that resistance soon ended as darkness took her unknowingly, while she was gazing at the bright stars.If you spot this narrative on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.


    ......


    Yuriel opened her eyes, seeing the white space once again. It was unchanging and forever nonexistent, yet the first thing she noticed wasn''t the space, but herself. Right now, Yuriel felt mad, insane, and completely crazy by simply existing here.


    It was painful, to exist in a world where there is nothing. Yuriel lost everything, barely maintaining herself from having no sensation. She wanted to scream, but there is no sound. She wanted to cry, but no tears came out. She just couldn''t feel anything.


    Why am I here? She thought. Who am I exactly? She wondered. What is the world? She asks. What was the meaning of everything? She pondered.


    Standing in the white space, Yuriel contemplated all of those questions and searched for answers. She couldn''t find any, something meaningful enough against her existential doubts. But then, she remembered the quote of her father used to say, coming from one of his favorite philosophers.


    "I think... therefore... I am." Yuriel muttered, ruminating upon the words Ren¨¦ Descartes once uttered.


    Yuriel suddenly remembered her father, her mother, her brother, her memories, her everything. But all these anchors were weak, she realized, and that it''s not enough to resist the reigns of the white space. However, she can still fight the madness that surged against her, using nothing but will and mind.


    She gritted her teeth, the sensation of overwhelming pain and nonexistent sensation, eating one another. Then time passed, her mind, just like before had begun adapting to the white space. Her shattered thoughts became coherent, and chaos became order.


    Yuriel''s mind was exhausted, but he endured while remembering all her memories. This kind of thing isn''t new to her, but it''s certainly not something she can get used to.


    Eventually, the crazy thoughts in Yuriel''s faded overtime. Rationality returned to her gaze, and ravings of uncontrollable emotions calmed down. At that moment, the white space didn''t feel so cold anymore. The silence was also replaced by a rhythmic sound, lullabies of Yuriel''s childhood echoing somewhere, everywhere, all at once.


    Looking at her surroundings once more, the white space vanished and was replaced by an empty room. It wasn''t just any room; it was Yuriel''s own, back when she was still a toddler.


    Witnessing this, her expression became stiff, surpised by the outcome.


    Most of the things in this room are toys, mostly giant plushies displayed everywhere. Staring in silence, Yuriel''s mind eased and she slowly processed what happened. The clash of chaos and nothing still affected her, which is something she can''t shrugged off.


    "Zero space..." Yuriel says, picking up a certain toy. "The state before dreams are created, or better yet, after they are destroyed."


    Yuriel pieced the things she had learned, recalling her first and current interaction with this new world. The white space appeared when she reached edge of her dream, now it created a dream of her past memory.


    With that in mind, Yuriel thought of an hypothesis after all her observations. The dream had four stages, each of them unlocking new abilities for Yuriel.


    The first stage was dream living, which allows Yuriel to fully become aware in the dream, even influence it. The second is dream walking, which allows her to travel not only from her own, but also others dreams. That had been her only experience, until the zero space appeared and showed a new possibility.


    Creation and destruction.


    The white space exists at the point where dreams are destroyed, and dreams are not created. So when she is here, Yuriel can easily create and shatter her own dreams. That means right now, she had a freedom to project any imaginations she wants.


    "But, I can''t carelessly enter the zero space." Yuriel sighed, still enduring the pain she experienced. "If I wanted to remain sane, I have to avoid this place."


    Although she had recovered, the feeling of madness had pushed Yuriel to her limit. The fact that she remained sane is a miracle, which had been cultivated the dreams space all these years. Perhaps she didn''t notice, but maybe, Yuriel had been long insane.


    "No use pondering about that." Yuriel said, throwing the thought at the back of her mind.


    She didn''t have time to lament, right now, she need to learn more about the zero space. If she could understand it''s every nature, she might be able to end her suffering entirely. That''s why she began experimenting, dreaming of her school.

 Chapter 3: Memories

    The school was bustling with students, walking in and out of the campus. Looking out of place with her pajamas, Yuriel stood at the corner. No one noticed her, after all, this is merely a conjured dream.


    Glancing around, Yuriel noticed a vast difference between this dream and the previous ones. Her current dream, felt like how you''ll remember an old memory. It felt bleak, lacking in details, and most people are faceless.


    "It''s probably my lack of proper visualization." Yuriel says, before deciding to test the idea.


    She closed her eyes, trying to recall this particular memory and everything related to it, using her utmost focus. With just a thought, her dream shattered and was immediately recreated. Opening her eyes, Yuriel found herself in a completely identical copy of her school. Although many students had blurred faces, it was overall more profound than the former dream.


    The bleak colors vanished, replaced by a vibrant scenery that seemed much more alive. Not to mention, everything looked so real that one would mistake this dream as reality. Impressed by her work, Yuriel walked around and inspected every nook and cranny.


    If there is one flaw with this dream, it''s that Yuriel''s memory is incomplete and had multiple gaps. But she made up for some of it, using her remaining memories of the school. That was also the reason why, everything felt so detailed that everything in place felt accounted for.


    Things that shouldn''t have been in this particular memory were there, but there were also minor problems. Yuriel couldn''t fill the gaps of students, as she can''t really remember all their appearances. Some were familiar, which are the only few who had their faces intact.


    "If I can do this with a vague memory, what about a vivid one?" Yuriel muttered, then tried remembering her clearest memory. "Hmm... Not clear enough, too many gaps, wait... this one!"


    Stolen from its rightful author, this tale is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.


    Yuriel''s mind replayed a memory, clear as it could ever be. It was like a scene that happened yesterday, and was still vivid in her eyes. The school slowly faded, replaced by a peculiar chamber. Standing at the back, she watched her younger self play with her father.


    In front of them was a table top game, laid with strange and mystical scenery. It was very detailed, from some of its action figures, to the world map, and books that described the history. It made the chamber feel alive, as if she''s in a different world altogether.


    "Princess Rie has come, time to beat the bad guy!" The younger Yuriel declared, raising the figure of a princess clad in armor. "No one can escape her angelic powers!"


    Her father laughed, then wrote her words in a note. He then moved beside her, pulled an action figure, and placed it in front of Princess Rie. The young Yuriel yelped, seemingly afraid of the black dragon with a fierce appearance.


    "The dragon king has descended to meet his challenger, be prepared princess of Asterion." Her father said with a grin, scaring the younger Yuriel.


    "Papa that''s so unfair!" She complained, instinctively pulling Rie back to her embrace. "Isn''t the boss supposed to be a goblin king? What the hell is that?"


    Her father chuckled.


    "You should learn this early, life doesn''t give you leverage, sometimes things are just unfair. Stop whining, what you should think right now, is how to defeat the enemy ."


    "I''m still 9!" The younger Yuriel groaned, taking the note and writing her next move, albeit with a messy writing.


    Following that, Princess Rie casted a powerful magic and pierced the dragon with a rainbow blast. It was ineffective, due to the complex biology of the dragon king. However, the young Yuriel didn''t understand any of that, fearfully watching her character being obliterated like a ragdoll.


    "The dragon king flew in the sky, staring at the princess who''s gonna draw her last breath." Her father narrated, enjoying as Yuriel struggled in the fight. "Gathering the dark energy in his throat, purple flames spewed out and struck the princess."


    "....."


    "But..... The flames didn''t envelope Rie, a barrier surged around her like a cocoon." He paused, then smiled. "This allowed her to survive the hit, but this chance is only a one time mechanism, once she disappears, the necklace will be destroyed."


    "Ah..." The younger Yuriel was surprised, not expecting such turn of events.


    "Okay, it seems that fate saved Rie this time." Her father mused. "That''s why, don''t waste this chance Yuriel. Think how you''ll overcome the dragon king next time."


    "....."


    The younger Yuriel didn''t respond, thoughtfully considering his words. With a faint smile, Yuriel walked towards them with a nostalgic gaze. Her father always taught her, that every problem in life can be overcome so long as you think and act upon it.


    That was his last words to Yuriel as well, before dying in his death bed. As she reminisced about the past, her younger self ran towards the door and left.


    Surprised, her father turned towards the door to run after her daughter. Yuriel stood on his way, not intentionally, but simply to look at his face which she hadn''t seen for so long. At that moment, Yuriel''s eyes couldn''t help but dilate in horror at what she saw.


    Her father was faceless.

 Chapter 4: School days

    Yuriel awoke from the sound of her alarm, her eyes twitching in disbelief at what she just witnessed. The dream remained vivid, and she did not forget a single thing. However, the last memory was so unsettling that she could feel the terror deep in her bones.


    Yuriel''s father was faceless.


    "It couldn''t be!?" she couldn''t help but say, pursing her lips. "I still remember dad, our time together, his name, his face...."


    Just then, Yuriel realized something. Her expression grew dim, and for a while she remained silent. For all her recollection, she wasn''t able to remember her father''s face, not even a vague description of his appearance.


    Did he have black hair? Or was it brown? Are his eyes dark just like hers? Yuriel have no idea. Their time together was still clear as day, the lessons he taught, the joy and fun they went through. And yet despite that, she had no answers to any of her questions.


    Did she even know her father?


    Pain gripped Yuriel''s heart, and somehow fear began to sprout at the depths of her mind. It was shallow, but she knew this was her first lead to the truth. Even then, she refused to reach for it, allowing those thoughts to fade at the back of her mind.


    Amidst her inner turmoil, she suddenly heard the clock ringing a second time. She was late for school, and with moments of hesitation, Yuriel rushed to prepare for school.


    .....


    The entire classroom was quiet, listening to the lectures of their english teacher. Meanwhile, Yuriel''s face was grim as she couldn''t focus on the class due to some lingering thoughts.


    Pushing things at the back of her mind wasn''t easy, and she couldn''t help but think of her problems every second.


    Heaving a short sigh, she tried distracting herself by observing the classroom.


    The class was indeed silent, but not too behaved either. Even though it was inaudible from a distance, she could hear her classmates gossiping at their teacher''s back. There were also others who played stupid pranks, or some that didn''t care and ignored the lecture altogether.This story originates from Royal Road. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.


    Witnessing this scene, Yuriel couldn''t help but widened her eyes in bewilderment. Perhaps, she had been too focused that she hadn''t noticed these behaviors before. For all their tomfoolery and shenanigans, she still believed in the maturity of her classmates. Now Yuriel realized, she was probably the odd one in the classroom.


    Sighing in dejection, she shifted her gaze and found someone staring at her. It was a pale youth with an aloof and stern expression, one of Yuriel''s classmates. Despite catching him in the act, the youth didn''t seem bothered and continued staring for a while. It''s only after she showed a reaction, did he finally turn away.


    Frowning, Yuriel couldn''t help but mutter in confusion: "What was that about?"


    Soon, the lecture ended, and it was launch break. She only ate a soft meal, which consisted of sandwiches and boiled eggs. Then she exited the classroom, planning to find a fresh air to breath.


    What Yuriel found was a swarm of students, leaving her petrified. Suddenly, a familiar face came and pulled Yuriel out of her reverie.


    "Heya princess!" The person greeted with a friendly smile. "I hope you still remember me."


    Staring at her for a moment, she responded: "Who are you again?"


    The person face palmed, then laughed bitterly as she shook her head.


    "Of course, you''ll forget me. Well nevermind that, my name is Tachibana Claudine." she introduced herself with a proud smile. "Im your recruit for the Arcana club!"


    "......"


    "Umm...."


    "Recruit.... when?" Yuriel replied, trying to recall the person.


    "Seriously?" Tachibana muttered, her face becoming pale. "After all that nagging and convincing."


    Yuriel scratched her head.


    "......Sigh, fine, follow me then."


    There was indeed something about recruitments, which the president of her club instructed to do. However, she didn''t remember recruiting one. Really, Yuriel had little care for her club. That said, whether what she said is true or not, Yuriel had to do her job and guide Tachibana.


    Following her, Yuriel and Tachibana traversed across oceans of students, leaving the hallway. Along the way, Tachibana indulged Yuriel with some small talks, specifically about the series of events happening in their school. It also included some rumors, which she had not been privy to.


    It''s interesting, to say the least. It made Yuriel understand how socially dysfunctional she was, with how much things are going on without her notice. For example, one of Yuriel''s classmates actually got into fight with the neighboring campus. Or that a transfer students, is actually a royalty of some small country.


    But the news that truly captured her attention, was a student named Kallen  confessing his love for Ainsel. Although it was a matter completely unrelated to her, Ainsel was a close friend. Which made it really more surprising, enough that she was eager to learn more from Ainsel herself.


    She also realized that Tachibana was pretty popular, wherever they went, many students would greet her. This made Yuriel conclude that her weird behavior stemmed from wanting to befriend everybody. In any case, they soon arrived at the location of the arcana club.


    It was situated at the very corner of the campus, secluded and hidden from plain sight. Staring at the small building full of cracks and weathered wood, Tachibana gulped and hid behind Yuriel.


    "Is this it?" She asked.


    "Yes, it''s the club." Yuriel answered and proceeded to knock the door.


    No one replied, and she waited for a while. Yuriel knocked again, this time much louder than before. There was still no response, but she noticed the door wasn''t locked.


    "I thought there''s a guard here?" Yuriel muttered, deciding to open it.


    What greeted them was darkness, and she cautiously entered inside with Tachibana in toe. Admittedly, this place looked creepy but not so much for Yuriel. After what she experienced over the years, everything in the real world no longer felt scary. Even the faceless people, especially her father, was scarier than any abandoned building.


    ''That said, a ghost will definitely haunt my dreams after this.'' Yuriel thought with a wry smile.

 Chapter 5: The Arcana club

    Once inside the building, Yuriel started inspecting the place. It was empty, silent, dusted, but well-maintained. At first glance, it would seem abandoned and not used anymore, but she knew that wasn''t the case.


    "This way." She gestured for Tachibana to follow, giving her a deadpan look.


    Tachibana hesitated for a moment, then gulped before taking another step.


    "How can you act so calm!?" she asked, scared. "This place is definitely haunted!"


    "It''s the Arcana club after all, that much is a given." Yuriel smiled faintly, then proceeded forward responding to her words.


    The building, although small, was piled with multiple shelves and boxes that had not been opened for years. It was enough to conclude that this place had once been a storage room for school equipments.


    Circling around the shelves, Yuriel finally found a cellar door that led to a basement. It looked much cleaner than the rest, with no signs of rust or any sort of deterioration.


    Cautiously, she stepped towards it and knocked with her foot. They suddenly heard something, signs of movements, thumping, and inaudible voices.


    Eventually, a response came: "What''s the code?"


    Hearing that, Yuriel didn''t waste time thinking and knocked much louder. The basement went silent, then she knocked once more which seemed to annoy them.


    The cellar door slowly opened, revealing a female student who had a tired expression. Behind her followed a young man, with demeanor that spoke elegance and mystery.


    "Who the heck-!?" the female student shouted, before facing Yuriel.


    She ignored her, then stared at the president whose lips is twisted into a wide grin. He looked at Yuriel in amusement, no doubt recognizing her.


    "Miss priestess, you''ve come!" he greeted in a cheerful tone.


    "The high priestess....." the female in front of him muttered, surprised.


    Yuriel''s expression twitched and she said: "Stop calling me with that nickname, please!"Unauthorized usage: this tale is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings.


    "Come now, as one of our members, you deserve a fitting name among our ranks." he replied, then bitterly said. "Although, it''s just an excuse to hide the fact that you''re a member in name only."


    "Well forget it, I came here with a business...."  Hearing his excuse, Yuriel can only shrug before turning to her side. "This is Tachibana Claudine, my recruited member."


    The president stared behind Yuriel with narrowed gaze, asking. "Claudine of the Tachibana group, daughter of Japan''s most famous corporation." He let out a forced smile. "What business do you have with my club? I mean, why join?"


    Tachibana who had been silent all this time, sneered and glanced at the president: "Because it''s the only way I can find you without being evaded."


    "Hahaha, You flatter me." the president replied, then tried changing the subject. "Anyways, let''s proceed shall we? This is not a good place to talk."


    Inviting them to the basement, Yuriel and Tachibana was greeted by a chamber filled with strange antiques. There paintings on the wall, each quite distinct, but equally horrifying. The carvings and some statues were no better, making Yuriel question her choice of joining this occult.


    Sitting in front of the president, Yuriel observed a few changes in his face. He no longer looked composed, at least, that''s what Yuriel could see from the slight twitches in his expression.


    "So... Your recommended member, let me think." The president begun, before receiving a cup of tea from his assistant. "Certainly, everyone hadn''t found any recruit so where on a pinch. Right now, I''m in no position to deny someone..."


    Tachibana''s eyes narrowed, but didn''t say anything.


    "That said, your not willing to admit her as a member?" Yuriel says, taking a sip of her tea. "Why is that? Do you two have some sort of history?"


    "As a matter of fact, yes." The president answers, grinning. "Are you curious about our past?"


    "Not interested." Yuriel replied, then rose from my seat. "While you two settle this matter, can I go ahead and skim your archive."


    "Your a member, so of course." The president replied, shaking his head in exasperation. "But, will you tell me why you recruited her?"


    "......"


    Yuriel didn''t respond, then stared at Tachibana who blankly looked at her.


    "Honestly, no idea. I can''t even remember when it happened."


    "......"


    "......"


    "......"


    Both of them were left speechless, unsure how to react from her blunt and nonchalant words.


    "Princess.... That was just yesterday! In the library!?" Tachibana exclaimed, visibly hurt by Yuriel''s lack of care.


    "Is that so..." Yuriel muttered, recalling the faceless girl she encountered in the dream. "I guess, that was her."


    Meanwhile, the president didn''t seem  surprised, as he had always observed Yuriel to be quite forgetful. Often times, he''ll find her in a trance, completely detached from the world.


    "Sorry for brothering you then." The president waved his hand, then Yuriel proceeded to leave.


    She went to the shelves, finding a series of books about the occult. Yuriel pulled one of them, flipping through its pages until she reached a certain point. The Arcana club, is a group that dealt with the secrets of the world, as it''s name suggests. The president, Daryl Yang, was an enthusiast who poured quite the amount of money to spread his interest among students.


    In fact, this building was owned by him, bought from the school itself. However, this club barely found success and only gathered around eight members in total. Each of them have a nickname, inspired from the tarot cards. Not to mention, all of them including Yuriel, recieved various boons that made their life easier.


    If someone where to ask, Yuriel herself wouldn''t lie and call this club a cult.


    As she read through the books, Yuriel found herself unable to indulged in the wonders of mysteries. Yuriel could still overhear the conversation between Tachibana and the club president, not that she cares what they''re talking about.


    From the looks of it, that seems to be the business of the elite class. Yuriel didn''t know much about the president, not his background or relationships. Though, she had once speculated his origin as being a chiness mafia which Yuriel genuinely believes.


    Considering this is a prestigious international school, he isn''t alone with a powerful background. Tachibana is one of them, and there are also foreigners from other countries, both elite and extraordinary. As for how she got here, Yuriel herself is excellent in academics, though, it''s mostly because of her father''s connections.


    "Ah.... Well, I''d rather not get involve with them." She exclaimed, then continued reading through the collection.

 Chapter 6: Provoking fire

    In the end, Tachibana was accepted into the club with her nickname as the judgement. She seemed to have an authority equal to the president, which the assistant regarded with respect. This lead Yuriel into various conclusion about their relationship. If she were to describe it, it''s rather intimate but ultimately one sided.


    Are they engaged?


    However, she didn''t lingered further and left once everything wads settled. Tachibana walked with her, going back into the campus in quite a bright and cheerful mood. Although curious, Yuriel didn''t inquired about what happened and moved on.


    The following class felt boring, and Yuriel couldn''t help but contemplate about her situation again. What is the dream space? Why can she wield it? Are there others whose suffering the same fate?


    Yuriel had pondered these questions for the longest time, and she couldn''t reach a proper answer. This twisted dreams started when her father died, and the early manifestation was mostly about death. She experienced death in the dream, each horrifying than the other.


    Once she was able to walk across dreams, Yuriel tried searching for others. Someone like her, suffering in the same phenomenon, alone and with no comfort. In the end, she spend all those times watching people and their dreams, finding no one.


    At that point, Yuriel had given up understanding her predicament, accepting the dream space as part of herself. Then she begun seeing this phenomenon in a different light, that it wasn''t so bad after all. In some way, it could help Yuriel see her father once more, even though not single time did she ever dreamed of him.


    Not until now.


    Yuriel rubbed her face, stress visible in her eyes. She was really confused right now, but not that she never experienced this before. When she traveled across dreams, Yuriel found things about her friends that destroyed their relationship. It affected her so much, that she became indifferent to most people.


    As she lamented to herself, a ball of paper slammed into her face. It was filled with slimey substance, and upon contact, the contents spilled into Yuriel''s entire upper body. Unauthorized duplication: this narrative has been taken without consent. Report sightings.


    "Shit...." Someone said, and everyone''s attention turned on Yuriel.


    She froze, unsure how to react from the abrupt situation. On one hand, Yuriel is boiling in anger she had never felt before and on the other, she was chillingly calm.


    A second later, it became a commotion and their teacher noticed. Shifting around, he saw Yuriel''s face covered in black mess, frozen from her seat. Then all eyes returned on the perpetrator, a familiar youth who''s face is ashen in dread.


    In front of Yuriel, another youth with a handsome face laughed. He was probably the target of this prank, but was instead directed to Yuriel. The teacher''s gaze pierced him and the pale youth, causing them to quiet down.


    He was silent for a while, before finally turning to Yuriel: "Miss Ernight, you can leave and clean yourself of this mess, then change in the clinic."


    Yuriel eagerly nodded and left her seat, but she didn''t forget to glare at the person who hit her. He noticed her gaze,   gulped, and looked away in fear.


    Now she recognize his presence, he got her attention, and Yuriel with a powerful urge decided to pay him back no matter what. As she exited the room, the teacher''s voice raised to its peak and scolded the two student.


    "Faust and Cromwell, To the guidance office now!!"


    "Wha-! Me too?"


    "Yes sir."


    .......


    Washing her face thoroughly, which took a lot of effort, Yuriel changed into a plain white shirt. Her uniform was left unusable, leaving her with no choice but to bear with it. Pursing her lips in frustration, Yuriel''s eyes burned with hatred.


    This was the first time, she had ever felt such strong emotions towards someone. After all this years of being detached from reality, she finally found another anchor that kept her from this world. This new emotion, or rather, her reawakened self that burns like fire.


    "That piece of sh*t!" Yuriel cursed, gritting her teeth. "He definitely planned this, I''m sure of it."


    Yuriel had noticed that youth observing her before, earlier, and now this happened. What else could it be, other than him choosing her as a target?


    In Yuriel''s eyes, he is just a bully who suddenly attacked her for no reason. Yuriel won''t let that slide, she will pay him back, and he will sorely regret what he did.


    "Tell me what happened Yuri!" Ainsel suddenly barged into the clinic, cutting  Yuriel from her vengeful thoughts.


    Surprised by her sudden appearance, Yuriel didn''t respond. She wanted to vent, but was suddenly reminded of something.


    "Forget about me" Yuriel replied. "I''m more curious about the confession thing."


    "Dammit all." Ainsel cursed, realizing her secret had come out. "How did you know!? Weren''t you supposed to be a dysfunctional member of the society?"


    "You''ve gone over the line there, I''m not a mute."


    "That doesn''t explain it!"


    "What can I say, rumors goes around unchecked. Even if I don''t talk to someone, I''ll overhear it."


    "Tch.... Guess I have no choice but to tell." Ainsel muttered bitterly. "I rejected him, I mean, a shut in like me is not suited for dating."


    "Can''t say your wrong."


    "More importantly, he literally wrote that love confession like his gonna murder me!"


    "....."


    "Right? That''s how I reacted."


    "Let''s just go home, together, something might actually happen to you."


    "Thank you very much!"


    "So that''s what your aiming for."

 Chapter 7: Reflecting reality

    Yuriel''s days had been peaceful, too peaceful in fact that she started to feel suspicious. Although this has always been the case, there were also shifts in her life that she hadn''t noticed.


    Yuriel has now become fixated of the waking world, something that never happened before. After being affected by the dream space, majority of Yuriel''s life has been spent in a dream. Her attention, her thoughts, her future, all of it where in the dream space. Why she had changed gradually, from a lively girl to a shell who''s expression is of complete indifference.


    In the real world, her only reason for existing were her parents and friends, she never cared for anything else. whether it be the threat of wars or new discovery of the universe, it all hardly mattered.


    But now, there was another, Yuriel''s thirst for vengeance from the humiliation she suffered at the hands of a certain youth. They had already been punished of course, made to clean the entire campus, while Yuriel watched them from afar. But it wasn''t enough, she wanted to humiliate them, with her very own hands.


    "That''s right, he''ll pay!" Yuriel only knew his face back then, but she knew of his name now. "NicoIaus Jester Faust, I don''t care if your an elite, I swear I''ll destroy you!"


    That''s what Yuriel declared, the following day after it happened. The sheer hatred she felt, all of it had surpassed any of her prior emotions.


    Yuriel only had a few, and one thing in mind. That is to think of a way, on how to get her revenge without suffering any consequences. The problem however, is that Yuriel can''t find any physical means to do it. But unlike other people, she has something that is not physical, but will definitely scare him for life.


    ''I''ll try this on my brother later.'' Yuriel thought, her lips curving to form a smile.


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    "I mean.... I understand why your that angry but," Ainsel nervously said, staring at Yuriel''s sinister expression. "It feels like your going to kill someone a hundred times over."


    "....."


    "Don''t get me wrong, they certainly deserve some sort of revenge for doing that. But you know, we certainly don''t want to go in jail and have people find their bodies in a river the next day.... you know what I mean?"


    "I''m not gonna kill them."


    "Right, I doubt that, your face says otherwise."


    "....."


    Other than pondering her ideas for revenge, Yuriel also progressed in learning about the zero space. She can indeed create dreams based on memories, but she is also capable of creating dreams based on anything.


    In fact, she had been able to recreate scenes from the movies and animes she had watched as a child. Standing there in that world, in that place, at that time, in that very event as if she were part of them. If there is one thing she can say about it, it''s exhilarating to say the least.


    However, Yuriel experienced many things in the dream space that it didn''t really blew her mind. In any case, Yuriel realized that the zero space can offer her infinite possibilities. There was no limit to what dreams she can create, no matter how absurd or unfathomable. Yuriel''s only real limit, was her very limited imagination.


    That is to say, Yuriel''s dreams had reached a qualitative changed. Although the zero space is still harmful, and can affect her mental psyche to a  dangerous degree. Yuriel had been adapting, always, to endure the horrors of the dream space. If she were to describe this evolution, it''s her ability to remain sane despite having no sensation.


    One can even say, that she is no longer human.


    But well, these are merely days where she had done practically nothing. She did go out shopping, hanging out with Ainsel, reading books, but it was all meaningless really.


    In the end, once her time with Ainsel was done and they bid farewell, Yuriel went on a solitary walk. She traversed the streets, walking simply, as she thought about her entire life. Memories flooded through, and her dreams faded for a moment. The illusory veil was pulled away, allowing Yuriel to see beyond the curtains, to witness reality once again.


    It was nothing special, even as she gazed at the top where Yuriel viewed the city. She gazes through the stars, into the crowded streets, and the snow that fell from the sky.


    She was just thinking and thinking, pondering and pondering, with the sole difference of not being clouded by her dreams. What is her purpose, what does she want to do, she had never thought about it for the longest time. But now, she was able to, perhaps because her attention was snapped back to reality, that Yuriel realized she had a life to live.


    It was something she just thought of, and immediately understood. Like one of those times, where someone scrolls in the internet and was suddenly hit by reality of his situation. If things goes on, living his life trapped in an illusion, what future does he have? If he didn''t do anything, wasting time to a people in the internet for some argument, what was his life about really?


    It was that kind of moment, which brought Yuriel''s thoughts back to reality.

 Chapter 8: Filler

    Taking a sip of her coffee, Yuriel began cooking breakfast which consisted of an omelette and miso soup. When her mother and brother woke up, they didn''t have to do anything and just watched her work.


    It didn''t take long, and they ate together while discussing her brother''s sudden outburst a few hours ago. It was so loud that her mother and Yuriel ran towards his room in a panic, but once they entered, his scream got even louder.


    Staring at his pitiful appearance, Yuriel noticed that he wouldn''t dare look her in the eye. She ignored him too, feigning ignorance to what really happened last night. Finishing her meal, she bid them farewell and rushed straight to the train station where she waited for a few minutes.


    While there, she figured she should open her phone and check the internet. Due to being occupied by the dream space, she wasn''t able to keep in touch with the news online. That said, there''s nothing really important and after scrolling a bit, she decided to shut the phone off and ate snacks.


    The train immediately arrived by then, and she slept all the way to the school.


    Once in the dream space, she decided to have a series of dream walking. When she finalized her plan of revenge, Yuriel had first tested the idea with her brother, who for some reason, had a nightmare about her.


    There were at least six people asleep in the train, and upon entering their consciousness, Yuriel erased their dreams. With her power, she manifested a nightmare which is mildly terrifying, but enough to give them some fright.


    When the dream appeared, so were their vestiges that observed the world. They interact with it, as if they were in the real world. Soon when her clock resounded, the dream collapsed and they all woke up.


    Yuriel''s eyes opened naturally, then she rose from her seat and walked out of the train. On the way towards the school, she found Ainsel walking alone and listening to music.


    Going after her, Yuriel stole her attention by waving a hand in front. She halted instantly, then stared in Yuriel''s direction with a tired expression. Recognizing her, she smiled faintly and they continued forward. Stolen story; please report.


    "Yuri... What''s the matter?" Ainsel asked.


    Yuriel stared at her for a moment, then responded: "I should be the one asking that question, you look horrible."


    She chuckled.


    "Hehehe, after so many failures, after so many sacrifices, I finally got her."


    "Oh...."


    Ainsel smiled excitedly.


    "Yes, Sylvia the princess of all fairies, I finally got her!"


    "I don''t really get it, but I''m cheering for you." Yuriel replied, forcing a smile. "By the way, about Kallen, did things go well?"


    Ainsel stopped, her face becoming solemn. She trembled, and a long sigh escaped her lips. She didn''t say anything for a while, then grasped her head in terror.


    "Ah.... That bastard, he won''t stop annoying me." she groaned, then laughed bitterly.


    Seeing her in this state, Yuriel felt really terrible, thinking she should confront Kallen later. And on that note, she could also try easing her through dreams. Yuriel had a feeling that whatever her dreams were, it isn''t anything good.


    "I see, I''ll help you ward him away, so cheer up!" Yuriel said, and Ainsel just nodded while they continued.


    Not a second later passed, a voice called out from behind.


    "What a coincidence, I believe fate is on our side."


    Neither Ainsel nor Yuriel stopped to pay it any attention, and the latter stepped back to shield the former.


    "Hey Mark, what nonsense did you taught him!?" Another murmured from behind, causing for Yuriel to twitch upon hearing the voice.


    "What nonsense? I teached him the very essence of courting a lady!" Another responded.


    "It obviously didn''t work!"


    "What!?"


    While the two went into a back and forth, Ainsel and Yuriel hurried into the crowd. A commotion suddenly formed from behind, completely erasing the three stoogies voices which had turned into screams. Tachibana appeared after, greeting Yuriel and Ainsel with a bright smile.


    "Good morning Princess! And hello there!"


    "Good morning too, Tachibana." Yuriel responded with a nod.


    "Good morning.... you are?" Ainsel said, breathless from her exquisite appearance.


    "Uh... Seriously, and they called me a celebrity." Tachibana lamented, then continued. "I am Tachibana Claudine, Yuriel''s acquaintance! Nice to meet you."


    "Nice to meet you too." Ainsel replied, sending soft punches Yuriel''s way. "Why you didn''t tell me about that cutie."


    "She''s just a club member." Yuriel replied, then the three of them walked towards the school.


    ......


    Far behind the trio, Mark Cromwell and Kallen Song laid on the floor with  beaten appearance. Sitting beside them, Nico Jester Faust chuckled as he observed the hateful gaze being sent their way.


    "To try and court Tachibana sama''s friends, such audacity."


    "Did they really think their worthy for the associates of Tachibana group!? What high ambitions these idiots have."


    "Look at them, they look like trash, throw them in the garbage!"


    Soon those people disappeared, and he rose from the ground as he lifted Mark and Kallen on his shoulders.


    Mark got the worst beating, but despite that, his confidence didn''t waver one bit. Nico on the other hand, remembered Yuriel Ernight''s appearance and smiled.


    "I''m pretty sure now, she''s that angel in my dreams."

 Chapter 9: Dreams that cannot be fulfilled

    A place of total darkness. Rising sun in the horizon. People butchered in the streets. Celebration of a happy birthday. Winning a golden trophy. Falling in the sky. Being chased by demons. Dating with the one you love. Living in a different world where she exists.


    These were the collective dreams Yuriel experienced, dream walking in the entire campus. Some of them are weird and incomprehensible, but these are the few that possess coherence.


    That is to say, she had been going around invading people''s dreams for years, deciphering their meaning.


    As for her reason, it''s just instinctual and merely out of habit but this time, she had ulterior motives.


    Although it failed.


    Dreams are strange, some says they are our deepest desires, manifested without restraints no matter how chaotic it is. Yuriel can see that now, a few of these dreams really showed what they felt without the exterior of a mask. Be it feelings for someone, the idea of their views, or simply what they truly wanted.


    But if there''s one dream Yuriel found interesting, it''s someone''s dream of being sent to another world. To be away from reality, free to do anything he wants, without being held back by the society. The person imagines that scenario a lot, to the point of being an obsession, yet he knows it''s a dream that cannot be fulfilled.


    And for Yuriel who can be said to experience that very dream, it''s a bitter perspective.


    It''s coping from reality, but Yuriel couldn''t understands why he would feel that way. But she begins to ponder, and try looking from his own perspective. One could even say, Yuriel''s dream space is a liberation from the reality, but she wouldn''t wished it to another.


    With that said, Yuriel knew that he is facing his own problems. Something he wanted to run away from, to forget, to the point he just wants to die. Yuriel could understand that, very very much. This narrative has been purloined without the author''s approval. Report any appearances on Amazon.


    Because of that, Yuriel had an urge to reinforce his dream. Make it more real, giving him a better experience, which she did on a whim. Dreams like this, despite being unreal had somehow brought Yuriel insights and newfound understanding about life.


    She has powers now, but is still a human, living life as people does. Although her perspective is now different or indifferent, things like this remains valuable.


    Yuriel couldn''t help but rethink her life again, this world, her friends, that she is starting to forget. It had been subtle before, but now she understood, what changed in herself upon discovering the dream space.


    "What a pain." Yuriel muttered, then leaned back on her chair. "I don''t even pay attention to the class anymore."


    Honestly, there is many ways to exploit the dream space despite its inability to interfere with the reality. There is no need for her to memorize, she can replay the class wherever and whenever she wants, even in the middle of an exam.


    That said, doing so will make her a scum. But maybe, someday, she''ll actually dream of this place.


    "I need launch break to come fast."


    .....


    Tachibana invited Yuriel to the cafeteria, where Ainsel also waited alongside a few other people. They conversed with each other, talking about the current events in school and so on.


    Initially, Yuriel thought Ainsel would be annoyed by this arrangement, but that wasn''t the case. She seemed to have some sort of obsession, observing the girls and their relationship with curiosity. Yuriel even had an eeiry feeling whenever she stares at her and Tachibana back to back.


    Yuriel suddenly had an urge to invade her mind and erase whatever thoughts she has. But in the end, she just gave up and decided to eat her food. Once the launch break is done, she bid them farewell and wandered around school grounds.


    Ainsel was following her, probably sensing something.


    "Why such a long face?" Ainsel asks, sitting beside her on the bench.


    They were staring at the sky, lost in thought.


    "Well.... I feel somewhat more distant than before." Yuriel responded, her voice weak and tired.


    "You just made another friend, but I do feel it." Ainsel replied, then sighed. "Im also tired dealing with life, but I didn''t loose my will to fight just yet."


    "Is that so..." Yuriel muttered, then stared back. "Say, would you want to escape into another world and leave this place behind?"


    "What a weird question." Ainsel mused, but still pondered for an answer.


    "Probably, my life is a mess right now, maybe I''ll have better chance in another world."


    "That sounds really naive, what if you are sent in a world like ww1?" Yuriel retorted, disagreeing with her last words.


    "Okay now, when you said another world, I only imagined an isekai based on light fantasy." She answered and chuckled wryly. "I''ll die if that''s the case."


    "Very well..."


    "Hey, your not thinking of jumping in front of a truck are you!?" Ainsel suddenly asked.


    "What? Why would you think that!?" Yuriel said, surprised by her sudden words. "There is no way I''ll do that."


    "Well good, you have me panicking for a second." Ainsel sighed, the rose from the bench. "Regarding your question, there are probably many people here who hoped for that kind of world."


    "Is that so?"


    "Yes, including me."

 Chapter 10: A world long untouched

    Staring at the window inside the train, Yuriel watched the world beyond the stainless glass. On her way home, she deeply ruminated about Ainsel''s words.


    Maybe what Ainsel said was right, people hoped for a world where they can find salvation. With her access to zero space, there is a possibility that Yuriel can create this world. Although, there is no guarantee in this idea, it won''t hurt to try.


    To begin with, Yuriel has no idea what to do with the power she had gained. What is she supposed to do with the dream space? What was it intended for?


    She certainly can''t think of any.


    But maybe, with this one tiny possibility, she can use this powers to imagine a world for everyone. Whatever that world is, she has no idea yet, but she have decided. Yuriel is going to create this worls, soon, with all her power.


    As this idea floated in her head, reasoning with the logic behind this future action, Yuriel suddenly remembered something.


    Her father, he had a world left hidden in their house, untouched since his death. Remembering this, memories resurfaced and it was then, that a rough plan formed in her mind.


    ......


    Upon returning home, Yuriel ate with her mother and brother. There was nothing special that happened today, but Yuriel decided to talk about new acquaintance. She also noticed her brother acting scared, whenever she stares in his direction. This book is hosted on another platform. Read the official version and support the author''s work.


    Yuriel couldn''t blame him, what she did is more scary than his actual nightmare. However, Yuriel did think that she might have gone too far. But with how much of a bully her brother is, Yuriel didn''t regret it.


    After that, Yuriel helped her mother clean the table and wash the dishes. But unlike her usual routine, she didn''t immediately left to her room but instead faced her mother.


    "Mom, do you have the key to our basement?" Yuriel asked, drying her hand on a nearby towel.


    Her mother seemed surprised, then smiled as she nodded. "Yes, it''s in my room, I''ll go take it quick."


    Soon enough, her mother arrived and gave Yuriel a heart-shaped key. Receiving it, Yuriel had a tender expression on her face, then immediately went into the basement.


    It had been so long, since Yuriel came here after her father''s death. She was afraid, to not see him there, to play in his chamber alone. But now, this place is what she needed to accomplish her stupid idea in mind.


    Opening the door, Yuriel was greeted by a well maintained chamber with all its  items organized in place. It''s obvious that her mother had been here, keeping her father''s legacy clean and safe after all these years.


    At the center of the room, was a large table filled with world maps, action figures, books displayed on top. It''s a world crafted by her father, from the characters, it''s grand history and lore, tales and stories. It was all created by  him, where he and Yuriel would spend their time together playing for hours, until they both fell asleep.


    Yuriel smiled, staring at this place once more, in the real world. Even though she had experience this memory in a dream, It cannot be compared to actually seeing it with her own two eyes.


    Because she knows, this is real, that her father had left these memories, his legacy. Stepping forward, she saw Rie''s figure laying on the corner, with a notebook placed below her.


    She opened it, then read its contents with a smile as she remembered it was she, who wrote her story. Of course, Yuriel need her father''s help, and without him, it wouldn''t be that fun.


    "Rie Valin Asterion, the fallen princess of the Asterion kingdom." With a grin, Yuriel reread the story of this little princess who would go on to have absurd journeys.


    But what made that note special, is her father not only recording Rie''s story, but also giving his own thoughts. Her father liked Rie, not because she was excellent or a well written character, no. Dad liked her, because she is the hope his people, the world he created needed.


    Reading it, Yuriel felt a little bit flattered and also sad. Her eyes darted across the room, to a world forgotten by her, who''s been wallowing in grief alone.


    She sat at the table, lifting another book. She started reading, everything that her father wrote for this world, Including the very beginning.


    "It all begun, because of a god''s phantasm."

 Chapter 11: Dream of shattering

    The space rent open, splitting reality in half before shattering into pieces. The basement trembled, and every furniture clattered, creating a symphony that signals the wake of destruction.


    Seeing this event unfold, Yuriel''s gaze darted across the room and observed a thick mist rising from the ground. She sensed something, beyond the shattered space, in a void where fragments of reality floated.


    Before, it was merely a premonition, an unshakable feeling when she witnessed the shattering up close. But right now, Yuriel knew there is something unknown, indescribable, and beyond terrifying in that plain. When she gazes into its darkness, she felt a mysterious force subduing her mind. Without her notice, the basement became a world of fire, yet the shattered space remained.


    Amidst all these, Yuriel immediately noticed her mother at the center of this scene. She''s in someone''s grip, struggling, her legs swinging around in desperation. Her hands clawed on the perpetrators skin, her fingers bleeding.


    "Mom!?" Yuriel''s expression changed drastically, and without hesitation, rushed towards her mother.


    However, she would soon realized that she couldn''t do anything. Her body phased through the attacker, and no matter how much she tries, she couldn''t touch him. Yuriel became frustrated, understanding that her will and thoughts are meaningless against this dream.


    She cursed angerly, and after each futile attempts, Yuriel watched as her mother''s neck snapped. A long silence enveloped the burning basement, and Yuriel screamed as everything vanishes.


    ......


    She abruptly rose from the chair, screaming, then grasped her head in frustration. It was a dream, Yuriel knew, but she still felt pain after witnessing what happened.


    What if it becomes real? What if she was put in the same situation? What can she do? How can she save her mother? Brother? Friends?


    Yuriel could only bit her lip, then pulled a strand of her hair, wallowing in the sensation of pain. Soon, she finally calmed down and breathed a long sigh before considering what just happened.


    "That dream again..." Yuriel muttered with a grimace, then sat down on the chair. "What is it trying to tell me?"


    The dream of shattering, it was something Yuriel had witnessed over and over again. After all these years. She was familiar with it, knew what it represent, a dream of total destruction. Enjoying this book? Seek out the original to ensure the author gets credit.


    Whether it was a vision, imagination, Yuriel didn''t know, and decided to not care as much knowing there is nothing she can do about it.


    Impatiently tapping her fingers on the table, Yuriel accepted her current status and groaned lightly. Right now, perhaps, her goal of creating a dream world is her only best course of action.


    Yuriel had little progress at the moment, but she couldn''t rush it. This project will definitely involve a meticulous process, requiring her utmost attention, power, and knowledge.


    She might even need the help of someone.


    "Since it''s weekend.... should I call Ainsel for a trip?"


    *****


    Somewhere in the city, within a certain household, inside a dark room lit three monitors. Standing in front of these intricate computer set, was Ainsel who was covered by a thick blanket.


    Her expression was focused, moving across the three screens, reacting to each of them all at once. She was multitasking, a skill she had developed long ago. It allows her to receive information, process it, and form immediate response.


    Although, as for what this skills is used for, well, it''s nothing special but somewhat impressive. Ainsel was playing a game, joining a raid to slay an event boss, while also surfing through the internet for various news, and watching the stream of her rival.


    After a while, Ainsel sighed and leaned on her chair in exhaustion. Although she''s used to being overworked, she is still a human and possess her own limits. Energy drinks won''t be enough, and her stamina which is built from moderate exercise, isn''t gonna maintain her health either.


    "God dammit, what am I doing with my life?" She uttered with self disdain, then scoff immediately. "Honestly, what''s the point, my life is already set in stone."


    While she was thinking about her life, Ainsel noticed a message notification. At first, she didn''t care, but her curiosity won over and clicked to see who it was. Just as she thought it was Kallen, an unexpected name appeared.


    It was Yuriel.


    "To think a day will come, when she''ll message me personally." Ainsel says with a grin. "A short trip... that''s a good idea! I really need to suck in a breath of fresh air right now."


    Following those words, Ainsel agreed to Yuriel''s message and immediately shut off her computer. Contrary to what people believed, Ainsel who''s a hermit, preferred showering everyday. It''s mostly because of refreshing herself, which became a healthy habit that makes her distinguishable from other basement dwellers.


    Soon, Ainsel left her house with a disguise. Her head adorned by a straw hat, her eyes shielded in dark shades, and her mouth covered by a white mask. Unfortunately, she didn''t realized  that this attire will only attract attention, rather than actually hiding herself.


    With that being the case, Ainsel left and cautiously inspected the road surrounding their house. There was no sight of any stalker, and because of that, she left enthusiastically and ran towards the nearby bus stop.


    .....


    The road was bustling as usual, with people going in and out of their work. Ainsel on the other hand, listens to her music in silence, minding her own business. Along the way, she had come across various establishments, from which she was tempted to buy and ate some pastries.


    Resisting the whispering desire for food, Ainsel halted and clenched her fist. She closed her eyes, circling in front of a pastry shop, fighting her urges. Ainsel should at least wait for Yuriel, and only then can she eat to her hearts content.


    But she was too impatient.


    Before Ainsel can make a decision, she opened her eyes and saw a familiar face in the distance. Tachibana Claudine was in the streets, walking confidently with a wide smile.


    Ainsel wondered what she was doing here, but decided to leave the thought behind and entered the pastry shop. She wasn''t a nosy person, and certainly doesn''t like associating herself with others outside the school, though Yuriel was an exception.


    Just then, a young man in her age walked out in a careful stride. He was wearing a formal suit, with golden trimmed glassess neatly placed at the bridge of his nose. Ainsel didn''t paid him much attention, but felt somewhat curious of his presence.


    However, foods are more important. Standing in front of the shop owner, Ainsel pondered her choice: "Let''s see, I''d like some croissants please!"

 Chapter 12: Fearless

    Nicolaus was walking down the street,


    when he suddenly stops from a scream he heard from a dark alley. His expression became cold, and with a swept of his gaze found a battered girl crawling on the ground.


    Despite the concerned look on his face, Nicolaus wasn''t reckless and spotted three people hiding in the shadows. They had weapon, carefully standing in a position where their target can be caught off guard.


    Opening his phone, Nicolaus sends a message to someone before entering the dark alley. The girl was completely beaten, her face swollen to the point she''s unrecognizable. Nicolaus fist tightened, and he glared into the place where the perpetrators are hiding.


    "Come out." He spoke with a commanding tone. "Or are you guys afraid of one person."


    Hearing his bold words, a laugh resounded in the dark alley. Three thugs stepped out, brandishing their weapons. The expression on their seemed pissed, yet equally amused at the youth in front of them.


    With a quick glance, Nicolaus identified  the symbol on their chest, realizing it''s connection to the yang family. Which means, he is dealing with a bigger trouble than expected.


    "Who f*cking cares." Nicolaus spat, then faced them. "I''ll freaking beat all of you, so much that none can ever speak."


    "Tch, is this guy an idiot?" One of the three asks, raising an eye brow.


    "Who cares, he comes to us and we beat him, simple as that." Another replied.


    Following that, one of the thugs approached Nicolaus and swung his steel pipe straight to the skull. Unfortunately for him, Nicolaus manages to dodge ahead of time and redirected the force of his attack. Before he realized what happened, pain erupted from his entire back.


    With his senses overwhelmed, the thug was unable to react as Nicolaus kicked him in the stomach. Falling unconscious, Nicolaus left him be and lifted his weapon. But once Nicolaus stares ahead, the second enemy was already upon him.


    He was sent back to the wall, and the thug released a succession of rapid punches. Nicolaus dodged just as fast, but his body still recieved multiple blows, each strong enough to send shock throughout his body.


    This story is posted elsewhere by the author. Help them out by reading the authentic version.


    Fortunately, Nicolaus was quick to respond from his situation and escaped the corner. He managed to push the opponent back, allowing Nicolaus a few seconds to breath. But it didn''t last long, and another tackled him to the ground.


    He rolled multiple times, but immediately stood to dodge a fatal kick in the face. Nicolaus then sent his fist to the thugs groin, making the man scream in pain. While distracted, Nicolaus rose and elbowed the guy in his neck, droping the big guy on the ground.


    Nicolaus faced his second opponent with a groan, exhausted.


    "Bastard, I''ll f*cking kill you!" The second thug screamed, his face twisted in anger. "Even if I can''t, the Yang family, the great master will kill you."


    Nicolaus stood his ground, raised his arms before smiling: "Great, go ahead and do it."


    The thug seemed shock for a moment, surpised from his response. But it didn''t last long, the final battle immediately begins and he charged with a fierce kick. Nicolaus easily dodges, but couldn''t exploit the opening as the thug, continues to move in rapid succession.


    Nicolaus was rattled, he couldn''t keep up from his opponent martial prowess and was getting pushed back. Biting his lips, Nicolaus focused on dodging as he waited for the perfect moment to strike.


    The thug was tired just like him, and the more he moves, the more his stamina


    runs out. Nicolaus was already grinning, tightening his fist, enduring the wave of attack.


    ''Left. Right. Lower hook. Straight punch. Upper hook. Roundhouse kick.'' Reading his opponent, Nicolaus remained calm and calculative. ''His movements slowed, and his getting sloppy, it''s time to attack.''


    Once he determines that, Nicolaus moved forward. His arms hurt like hell and it felt numb, yet Nicolaus continues on and sent a straight punch. The moment he moved to attack, the thug''s rhythm was broken and he was too late. Nicolaus fist landed on his face, sending a few teeths flying and sent him rolling down the floor.


    "Ughh... That hurts." Nicolaus complained, kneeling.


    He was battered, in pain, and mostly exhausted from the fight. However, it wasn''t done yet. He stood to continue what he promised, punching the big guy over and over until his face became swollen. He did the same to the rest, before tying them somewhere everyone could see.


    Once it''s done, Nicolaus carried the weakened girl in the streets where a mercedes-benz arrived. Opening it''s window, Mark Cromwell appeared with a deep frown on his face.


    "Good grief." Mark says. "Can''t you go on a single week without being put in such a sad state?"


    Nicolaus shook his head.


    "Seems like it, now go on. We don''t have time to waste."


    Mark shook his head, then drove off towards a nearby hospital. Nicolaus then left the streets and went into a public toilet, washing his face and cleaning off the blood. Although he wasn''t fatally injured, Nicolaus''s body was still hurting in several spots.


    Leaving the place, he walked back into the streets and sat on a nearby bench. People walked here and then, but Nicolaus didn''t pay them any mind. He just sat comfortably, staring into the sky with a serious expression.


    "Yang family huh...." Nicolaus wasn''t scared, but he found the situation rather troublesome. "If they just come after me, then it''s all good."


    That is to say, Nicolaus is confident they will, without harming the others. Erasing someone like him is affordable, but certainly not a person of Mark''s status. The Cromwell family will certainly retaliate, and the Yang family will be risk loosing their standing.


    ''It''s good that way.'' As he thought about the future, Nicolaus suddenly heard a hostile voice. ''The Yang family!?''


    Alerted by another presence, Nicolaus opened his eyes and saw a familiar face. Yuriel Ernight, a fellow classmate and someone he had vividly saw on his dream. Her exquisite face remained the same, with a wavy black her that flowed like river, and dark eyes that somehow shines the brightest, reflecting his stunned expression


    Though she wasn''t in a good mood, looking down on him with pure disgust.


    "Nicolaus Jester Faust, right?"


    "....."


    Speechless, Nicolaus can only nodd as he felt fear at the depths of his heart. He remembered what he did of course, which was an accident, really. But it''s obvious from her gaze, Nicolaus is going to pay miserably.


    ''Well.... Sh*t.'' He thought, forgetting the Yang family completely.

 Chapter 13: Sincere apology

    Upon seeing him nod, Yuriel inspected Nicolaus and found multiple stains on his body. She couldn''t help but frown, somewhat worried that her target of vengeance might die, before she can exact her revenge.


    Although, that''s just how Yuriel interpreted her feelings.


    In truth, the raging fire against Nicolaus was long gone. It was overshadowed by other things, like her recent dream and future goal. But while Yuriel didn''t hate him, it doesn''t mean her feelings are lost and she had taken a liking to him, not at all.


    She still wanted to get back at Nicolaus, even if it''s just a simple act of doodling his face. Yuriel did try though, by entering his dreams. However, she couldn''t find the opportunity as Nicolaus had never fallen asleep within her range.


    With that being the case, Yuriel continues to stare at Nicolaus with a frown. She''s pondering what to do, whether to confront or ignore the guy. But before she can decided, Nicolaus abruptly stood from his seat and bowed deeply.


    "I''m sorry for what I did!" He sincerely said, cutting off Yuriel from her thoughts. "I have no excuse, even though it''s an accident, I''m still at fault so I''m very sorry!"


    "....."


    Yuriel didn''t know how to respond, or how to accept his apology. In fact, Yuriel had an impression that Nicolaus is the type that would never accept his fault. Not to mention, he hadn''t apologized these past few days after it happened, not even once.


    That said, Nicolaus had his own reasons that prevented him from apologizing. Tachibana never gave him a chance, obstructing his way to Yuriel and enabled him from apologizing.


    But right now, at this very moment, outside the school, beyond Tachibana''s awareness and reach. Nicolaus had found the perfect time to apologize, and while he knows that Yuriel won''t take him seriously, he didn''t care. Nicolaus is ready to receive a punishment, he deserves that much after throwing a dark slime on her face.


    "I know your angry right now, and im not gonna defend myself. Punish me however you want, and if you will, allow me to treat you as an apology."


    "....."


    There was still no response.


    Feeling as if the gaze are piercing him, Nicolaus raised his head and found Yuriel with a thoughtful expression. She wasn''t sure how to answer his words, which Yuriel could tell is sincere enough. She was willing to forgive, and didn''t have any intention of holding a grudge either, so there is only one thing he can ask him of.


    "Do me a favor then." Yuriel finally says, after a while. "Stop your friend from pestering Ainsel, only then will I forgive you."


    "Friend...." Nicolaus muttered, recalling a small youth in his head.


    Certainly, Nicolaus knew who Yuriel is referring to. In fact, they have quite a decent relationship that sprouted from common interest. Kallen is a quiet guy, but possess a peculiar mind that surpasses that of Nicolaus. Not that he can tell what Kallen is thinking, the guy was just too mysterious even for him. The narrative has been taken without permission. Report any sightings.


    He didn''t even know why he fancied Ainsel Liddell, a young woman who''s equally unapproachable as Yuriel.


    "Can''t you do it?" Yuriel immediately asks, noticing his hesitation.


    "I will try, however, we aren''t that close enough to have a serious conversation about his interest." Nicolaus replies, scowling at the thought.


    "That''s enough." Yuriel nodded, already satisfied. "But putting that aside, what happened to you?"


    "What do you mean?"


    "You look completely beaten from, and your clothes are a mess. Did you got into a fight or something?"


    "No... I just stumbled into the road, nothing serious."


    "The amount of blood says otherwise, and it''s not yours is it?"


    "There is someone too, yeah my friend also stumbled faced down."


    "....."


    While Nicolaus was busy making excuses, he didn''t notice a Mercedes benz arriving by his side. The window opened, and Mark''s tanned face appeared, shrouded in long wheat blonde hair.


    "Nico it''s done, we should be going now...." Mark paused, noticing Yuriel glancing from the side with a curious gaze. "Wow, it''s kinda hot out here. I''ll go ahead and wait for you at the restaurant."


    Mark closess the window, then attempts to drive forward but Nicolaus blocked his way. Although the windshield was dark, Mark knew his friend is staring at him saying: "You can''t f*cking escape."


    "Bastard..." Mark spat, before leaving his car and immediately kowtow. "I''m very sorry for being part of the accident!"


    "It''s fine, sir Faust and I had settled the matter." Yuriel replied, indifferent to Mark''s actions. "You can stand up now."


    "Glad to hear it. If you''ll excuse us then, western house is waiting!"


    "Your heading to the western house too?" Yuriel suddenly asks.


    "That is correct, what about it?"


    "I''m heading there too."


    "Oh if that''s the case, how about we eat together? Our treat, right Mark?" Nicolaus suddenly chimes in, patting Mark''s shoulder. "His wallet is pretty full, so his inclined to be charitable these days."


    Mark scowled at Nicolaus''s words that emphasizes his charitable, yet nodded quietly.


    "No need, I''m eating with a friend."


    "Lady Ernight, this is our only opportunity to express our apology." Mark immediately responded. "So please, I''ll even treat your friend to whatever meal she and you desire."


    As she heard that, Yuriel''s ears perked up. Ainsel''s appetite is certainly big, she had no doubt that they''ll spend a large sum of money at the restaurant. Since Mark Cromwell was offering, Yuriel might as well accept and gladly eat.


    "Okay, I''ll take your offer then."


    *****


    Ainsel was waiting, sitting at the table of a fine dining restaurant. The western house, a culinary paradise that serves european cuisine at it''s best. She was waiting for Yuriel, checking on the menu with furrowed brows.


    After a while, she had finished familiarizing the dishes and determined her choice. Hence, Ainsel gained a free time to read novels on her phone. It was then that she caught sight of Yuriel, entering the restaurant with two more person in toe.


    "Eh....!?" Ainsel uttered in surprised, certainly not expecting this. "Wait, did Yuriel arrange a blind date? No way right? Of all people?"


    Ainsel couldn''t believe it, that''s probably not the case. There might be reasons as to why Yuriel brought those two, someone she had grudges to settle with. It''s certainly not a date, Yuriel wouldn''t entertainment the idea, not even a second.


    While engrossed in her own thoughts, Yuriel spotted Ainsel and casually took a seat beside her. She then whispered something into Ainsel''s ears, giving her  a brief explanation of what happened.


    "They''re gonna treat us?" Ainsel asked, confirming what she just heard. "Are they serious?"


    Yuriel nodded.


    "No need to be on guard lady Liddell, rest assured, Kallen is not here and will not arrive." Mark says, taking a seat as well. "I promise you that."


    "And why would I believe you?"


    "Kallen is a lone wolf, he hangs out with us sometimes, but that''s not often the case." Mark responded. "That said, I don''t think you''ll hate his company even if he''s here."


    Ainsel gave Mark a blank look, then glanced at Nicolaus who''s pretty battered from head to toe. He looked pitiful, yet didn''t seemed bothered by her or the people''s gazes around them.


    "Whatever, your gonna treat us right?"


    "Of course."


    "Fine.... Don''t complain later."


    "If it reaches a hundred thousand, your mother is definitely gonna scold us Mark." Nicolaus commented, already seeing the look of regret in his face later. "I''ll help you prepare an excuse."


    "Ughh... Isn''t this your fault?" Mark retorted sternly. "But really, it''s a small prince to pay for getting closer with two fair maidens."


    "You wouldn''t be saying that later."


    "You two are weird, you know that? Well, Yuriel and I are weird too..." Ainsel suddenly interrupted, glancing at Mark and Nicolaus. "I guess our lives are relative to each other."


    "Im not weird." Yuriel interjected, but Ainsel ignored her and ordered multiple dishes.


    "I want this! And that! And here too! Certainly this! The special, give me that! Desert of course!"


    Once she finished ordering, a number of food carts arrived in their table. Yuriel briefly glace at them, smiled, then enjoys herself with the small portion of a desert.


    "Dear god...." Mark couldn''t help but mutter, speechless at the sight.

 Chapter 14: Beyond the masks of indifference

    The Western house, is a five floor restaurant standing within high grounds that directly faced the city. Enjoying the view of an urban landscape, Ainsel hummed while taking a sip of an expensive champagne.


    "Merci mille fois!" She says, expressing her gratitude to Mark. "Ils sont tr¨¨s d¨¦licieux!"


    "....."


    "I''m glad to satisfy your desires." Mark nodded, ignoring Ainsel''s poor attempt at speaking french. "Although, please don''t drink too much."


    "Je vais bien." Ainsel responded, raising her glass. "Je dois profiter de cette b¨¦n¨¦diction!"


    "....."


    "Hahaha... Indeed." Mark says, raising his own glass as well. "Let''s enjoy this bountiful feast."


    "¨¤ votre sant¨¦!"


    "Cheers!"


    "....."


    While Mark and Ainsel was exchanging words, with the latter using french. Yuriel and Nicolaus remained quite, observing the two who''s living in their own world.


    Yuriel didn''t linger though, knowing that Ainsel was just testing Mark whom she''s probably interested in. For one, he is the heir of Cromwell family, and secondly, the guy was an easy and ideal target. Ainsel loves stroking peoples ego and confidence, whether to raise it up or hammer it down.


    Ignoring the proceedings, Yuriel decided to eat and enjoy the delicacies on her plate. She savoured every spoonful bite, praising every bit of experience the luxurious foods has to offer.


    For example, the mash potato was on a different level, far better than what Yuriel had attempted to cook. It''s so delicious, both taste and texture exploding into a plethora of wonderful flavors. If Yuriel were to describe what it felt, she would say like an ice cream that easily melts in your mouth, once eaten.


    With that in mind, Yuriel moved on the barbecue steaks. It seemed to have been smoked and lightly seared, creating an aromatic smell of herbs in the air. She gulped at the sight, hesitant to take a slice. But then, Nicolaus snatched one and another, and more. Yuriel''s head snapped, catching the boy in question ravenously eating meat like there''s no tomorrow. If you come across this story on Amazon, it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it.


    "Mind sharing some?" Yuriel asked.


    Nicolaus looked at her, then at his food, then at her, then at his food, before finally replying: "Sure..."


    Yuriel smiled gratefully, taking a slice of the steak.


    *******


    "Thank you for the food!" Ainsel says, patting her stomach. "But yeah, I feel kind of pregnant."


    "Ummm..." Stunned, Yuriel blankly gazed at her side. "Wait, have you been pregnant before!?"


    "Of course not!" Ainsel denies with a red face. "I don''t mean literally! It''s an hyperbole!"


    "Ahuh..."


    "HYPERBOLE!"


    "No need to scream, I get it." Yuriel resigns, smiling wryly. "I just thought that, it wouldn''t be impossible if we''re talking about you."


    "Arghhhh!!!" Ainsel screamed at the top of her lungs. "I''m a teenage girl living in my basement! How is the idea of me having a baby possible!"


    Yuriel chuckled, not giving a reply.


    Meanwhile, the two youths behind them remained silent. They didn''t join the conversation, knowing it''s only a witty banter between best friends. Trying to barged will only ruin their mood and quite frankly, they''re more interested in observing them.


    The two maidens are always unapproachable in school, always possessing expression of distant gaze and indifference. But right now, there are no traces of that former masks, only geniune smiles one expresses with the people they trust.


    "You know, I''d like to court them." Mark suddenly says, elbowing Nicolaus on the side. "Their totally my type."


    "Every girl is your type." Nicolaus retorted. "And you certainly don''t have a chance."


    "Tch.... I already know that." Mark grumbled, then asked mockingly. "What about you? Any chance?"


    Nicolaus shook his head.


    "That''s a stupid question." Nicolaus says, sighing. "Absolutely not a dime, and that counts for every girl in existence."


    "Really....?" Mark tilted his head, staring at Nicolaus with a frown. "I mean, if your like me, there should be someone pursuing you right now."


    "That''s a stupid comparison, your one of the most popular guy in the class." Nicolaus rebuke. "Seriously, aside from fist fight, your better than me at literally everything."


    Mark smirked: "Indeed I am, and might I correct you. It''s the most popular guy in class!"


    Nicolaus scoffed, not taking his remark seriously.


    Speaking of popularity, both Yuriel and Ainsel are actually well known amongst the students. It''s not because they''re beautiful, but more about their cold and distant demeanor. Hence, was the famous moniker: The reverie princess and ice queen of wonderland.


    The two girls who will either ignore you exist or dismiss your presence.


    In a way, no male had successfully communicated with them aside from Mark and Nicolaus. Although, the price they paid was not simple and is quite the sum of money. And it''s not like they''re friendly towards them either, that was not the case.


    "That said... I''m starting to understand why Kallen fancied Ainsel." Mark mused, crossing his hands with serious face. "She have a totally different energy, you know, a mischievous one."


    "Can''t say I feel the same." Nicolaus responded. "It''s kind of scary, actually, knowing how both are too different than the personality we know."


    Saying that, both of them sighed.


    "Mixer party it is."


    Mark suggested.


    "Right."


    Glancing at Mark briefly, Nicolaus replied and grinned.


    While watching their back and forth, the group finally exited the luxurious restaurant. Tired and full, their pace had been slow and careful, costing a bit of time to reach the exit.


    However, it was still afternoon and with more time remaining, Ainsel asked Yuriel to wander around. As for Mark and Nicolaus, they have no idea where to go and merely watched as the two maidens walked away in excitement.


    The two pondered, sighed, a decided to return in Mark''s abode to face their punishment. Before they can leave, a voice called from behind.


    "Where are you guys going?"


    It was Ainsel, waving her hand.


    "Going home?" Mark answers, to which the white haired maiden frowned.


    "It''s still early isn''t? Why the rush? Let''s hang out." Ainsel suggested, and behind her nodded Yuriel. "I mean, it''s just today, and I feel that your going to be of use to us."


    "Use, huh...?" Nicolaus muttered, then smirked. "Yeah, he is extremely useful for a rich kid."


    "....."


    Mark was speechless, but he couldn''t deny what the two had said. As the heir of Cromwell family, he basically has access to various establishments no commoners can''t enter.

 Chapter 15: Thoughts of a gentleman

    Returning home, Mark enters the manor with his servants in toe. Among them was Cassidy, a curly haired butler and Mark''s personal assistant.


    Walking alongside him, Mark started to inquire about the latest news, which is more or less about the Cromwell family.


    With a serious expression, Cassidy handed Mark various letters from his father, and some relatives overseas.


    "What about mom?"


    Mark asked, to which Cassidy replied.


    "Milady is currently having business discussions with our shareholders. She might not be available till next week, according to her schedules."


    Hearing that, Mark felt relieved and heaved a long sigh.


    "That''s good to hear." He responded with a grin. "And also, bring me the reports I''ve been asking about."


    "As you wish, young master."


    After that, Mark walked across the corridor alone. He didn''t like servants following him around, Mark find it annoying. Thus, he ordered them to do other things which left them no choice but leave him be.


    Satisfied, Mark pondered about a few things before running through the stairs. He then proceeded to take multiple turns in the corridor, and saw his room in the furthest side of the mansion.


    However, he didn''t immediately rushed towards his room and halted after a few steps. He heared something, beyond the door nearby, a powerful voice and violent thrashing.


    Mark frowned, deciding to find out what was happening and went closer to the source. Inside the room, inaudible voices could be heard, shouting and crying. Just from these, Mark instantly knew what was happening and sighed.


    ''I''m not gonna deal with this.'' He thought, walking away. ''To begin with, it''s probably the servants fault.''


    But he immediately stopped, silent, and contemplating properly. Mark grew as an elite class, groomed to be a heir, and future head of the Cromwell family. But despite that, he had never looked down on commoners or any of his servants. If anything, he respected them, looked up to the dedication they poured against the demanding work. This book''s true home is on another platform. Check it out there for the real experience.


    So why would he abandon that kind of person?


    "Tch...!" Mark clicked his tongue, visibly frustrated at the thought. "What am I doing right now?"


    The fact that he was willing, even for a second to let things be. It really annoyed him, so Mark walked back and barged into the room. There he found a maid lying on the floor, severely beaten, but didn''t resist as a woman punished her with a wooden rod.


    "Stop it!" Mark shouted, glaring at his eldest sister. "What are you doing!?"


    "If isn''t it the impudent brother." She sneered, returning a hateful look. "Are you going to get in my way again?"


    "The servants of this house belongs to the family head." Mark says, ignoring his sister''s previous words. "Harming them, no matter the reason, is equivalent to destroying his property."


    "So what?" She replied, smirking viciously at him. "You think the old man would care?"


    "Not at all." Mark calmly admitted. "But, he would care what trampling his belongings meant."


    His elder sister frowned.


    "It would show he is not capable of taking care of them." Mark then smiled. "He is a prideful man, after all, I''m sure he wouldn''t let that happen."


    "Hmmph!" His sister snorted.


    Mark was right, their father, despite his pragmatic and cold personality, possess a huge ego. If things like this became known, he would surely punish her without mercy.


    Mark''s sister knew that very well, so after a careful consideration. She sent them away, hateful, but couldn''t do anything about the matter.


    Mark then helped the maid stand up, escorted her to the door, before his sister suddenly spoke: "Mark, I''m not gonna let this slide."


    "Me too." Mark replied coldly.


    ......


    Carrying the maid on his shoulders, Mark inspected her body and found multiple bruises. He also noticed her pale complexion, and exhausted face that seemed overworked.


    Thinking where to bring the maid, Mark determined she wouldn''t get proper rest, if dropped on the servants quarter. She might even get scolded because of him, which Mark didn''t want to happen. That''s why, he brought the girl into his room and entered casually.


    It was spacious and large, with a bed the size of his Mercedes-Benz. Laying the girl down, he observed her face which looked soft and cute, Mark had a sudden urge to pat her head. But that would be too impolite, and not something a gentleman would do.


    Shaking his head, he contacted Cassidy to bring aiding supplies to nurse the maid when needed. Rest won''t be enofad, and recovery would surely take a few days. Not to mention, she is risked being harrased by his sister.


    With that in mind, he couldn''t help but laugh for adding another of his problems.


    "Whatever." Saying that, Mark reached for the nearby couch and sat comfortably.


    He let his current problems fade at the back of his mind, drifting back to the events earlier. It wasn''t anything special, Mark had always been an outgoing person. He was used to interacting with various kinds of people, both average and peculiar.


    That said, he never expected that an act of walking around, shopping, together with Nicolaus and the two girl could be so much fun. Choosing things for himself, rather than having a custom made belongings according to the trends.


    Not to mention, the complete serenity of those moments felt very nice, absent of any tension. Walking along the ocean of people, among the crowd, Mark felt he was one of them.


    A normal person.


    "Young master, I''ve brought everything you''ve asked for." After a long while of silence, Cassidy arrived.


    With a response, he immediately entered and found the maid lying on Mark''s bed.


    Cassidy scowled, but didn''t question anything and went by Mark''s side. He placed an envelope down, containing the reports his master wanted.


    Immediately after, Cassidy walked to accommodate the weakened girl, Using the supplies he brought.


    Mark didn''t paid it any mind, focusing on the report written as: "Findings on the world of immortals."


    ******


    Yuriel was tired, but her face remained bright and focused. After clearing her head of the dream, forgetting, and having fun. She was now rejuvenated, with a fresh mind and ideas, ready to start brainstorming on what and how to create her dream world.


    Although uncertain, Yuriel is now confident of the early concepts formed using her father''s world. It''s not enough, but Yuriel decided to take one step at a time. Right now, her task is to learn, gather knowledge, and perfect the idea in her head.

 Chapter 16: World creation

    Returning to the basement, Yuriel sat on a chair and placed various notes on the table. She also brought a cup of cofee, and snacks, which would accompany her throughout the night.


    Then without lingering further, ignoring all things and simply focusing on this single task. Yuriel opened the book, and begun rereading from the start.


    It''s not that she has forgotten, but Yuriel needed every necessary details. She believe this is important, enough to imagine a world without illogical flaws. Only then can Yuriel buid a wall of balance, preventing things from going out of control.


    With that being said, Yuriel engrossed herself into the world called phantasm.


    It started as: [In the beginning, there was only darkness. And within that darkness, slumbered a being called Adonai. When he awoke, creation followed, breathing existence to the titans called stars.]


    When Yuriel read this, she pondered about the importance of a creator. That in every world, including reality, there is a being who is imagined as such. A powerful, almighty, all-knowing, to explain the origin of creation.


    How everything came to be.


    Yuriel continued reading, moving along the passages, completely lost in another world. Yuriel felt dazed at the world she is imagining, amazed at how detailed it was. Her father had truly crafted a realistic world, so groundbreaking, so intricate, that no one will believe it.


    However, Yuriel couldn''t help but find these details boring.


    It''s not bad, by any means, but the way it was written is just. Well, something that isn''t meant to be treated as a novel but more like a physics paper, explaining each fundamental concepts of the universe. Teetering to the edge of fantastical, yes, but it was still able to give a sound and logical explanation.


    Yuriel even wondered, how can she comprehend everything written in the book. If she was just a casual reader, Yuriel would have dropped the book long ago. But she came here with a purpose to learn, and that allowed her to continue forward.


    After a while, Yuriel read the next book which caught her interest: [In time, life appeared as tiny microbes. Slowly, they grew to become a fish, before evolving to the form of man. But Adonai was dissatisfied, these creatures were weak, fragile, and insignificant among the stars.]The tale has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.


    Yuriel didn''t remember this part, which probably meant, this was the point where she had stopped reading previously.


    In any case, she suddenly became excited. Yuriel knew this was the development stage of her father''s world building. Here, the foundation was already built and what Adonai does, is cultivating the universe.


    Which is the details Yuriel was eager to know.


    Imagining a world isn''t hard, she can make anything by her own terms, with her own laws and concepts. But life, Yuriel cannot carelessly create one and risk destroying her dream.


    She didn''t want to imagine them, but develop them from scratch.


    In doing so, she can avoid inconsistency which might lead to unavoidable problems. Yuriel is cautious, and she knew dreams are unpredictable, and imagination are equally if not more dangerous.


    A mere thought of imagining a being like azatoth in the zero space was, well, absolutely frightening. It was something Yuriel should avoid at all cost, considering the consequences.


    Moving on: [ Wrathful and disgusted, Adonai eradicates the ugliness of man. Not only the flesh, but their souls that were full of malice and hate. Adonai was forced to reshape them, to recreate them according to his image.]


    [Thereafter. The once ugly creatures, had become beautiful. Their faces and body transformed immaculately, and their eyes came to resemble the distant stars. And then, their heart that was once filled with darkness. Turned completely serene and calm.]


    [The first born, Adonai called them, became the guardians of the universe who will live till the end of time. They spread across the cosmos, creating life where they breath, so did grew the tree that symbolizes life.]


    [Sentience among the stars begun to appear, civilizations steadily developed, while many of them fell. Adonai left the world in the hands of his first borns, divine beings, while he sat back and watches from the void.]


    [The cycle of life and death begins now, and after billions and more years to come. Everything will vanish in the oblivion, before starting the new beginning.]


    .......


    Time passed, Yuriel forgot how long it had been and realized It was already morning. Birds chirped outside, the morning dew dropped silently, the blue sky clearing, and the sun rising.


    Yuriel closed the book, exhaustion visible in her eyes.


    With a sigh, she contemplated back to each details she learned from the book. She had at least read three books, each explaining the laws, development, and history. But before all that, Yuriel left the basement and went back into the living room. She decided to brew a cup of cofee, toasted some bread, and savored each sip and bite while wallowing in silence.


    Now, to summarize what she had learned. It basically explained each and every fundamental laws that allows things to exist, like the concept of space time. Then the following process that formed the stars, planets, so on and so forth. But unlike the known universe, the book shows Adonai''s divine intervention, which created stability, and soon life.


    Yuriel couldn''t have understood their meaning, no human should have. But Yuriel had experienced many foreign phenomenons, and inconceivable concepts in a dream. It was to the point that, she knew what her father was explaining with only her instincts. Upon that realization, a sudden thug reached at the depths of her mind.


    A thought resurfaced, but she buried everything instantly, as soon as it appeared.


    Forgetting those things aside, next came the birth of cycle, which was the part Yuriel had been looking forward to. This is where she had stopped reading last time, and where things started to get interesting.


    Unlike the description of creation, the birth of cycle described the early civilizations and the existence of beings known as the first borns. They are the first intelligent beings, born from the image of god, long lived, beautiful, and perfect.


    The elves.