《Cerise - Cellphonenovel》 始める (Zero) Pst.. P s t.. S h e '' s w a k i n g u p. A voice? Who was that? This story originates from a different website. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there. I awake from slumber, gasping for air. A throbbing pain unseen.... reveals itself from the middle of my forehead. Glancing around the room, it''s quite bare. There''s white walls, a mere brown cupboard, and then a lonely door that leads to somewhere. I slowly get up from the ebony and soft cushioned bed, Owww my body aches so greatly and is covered in white bandages. What happened to me? Clear mind (1) My mind feels so blank. It feels empty. Who am I? I can''t recall.. R e m e m b e r. P l e a s e t r y a n d R e m e m b e r . Something within me wishes for a miracle. If you discover this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation. I want to remember the things I don''t. Not too far from me and near the lone door is a dark and transparent shadow. It speaks. "Kino. don''t forget.." Don''t forget what? What does that even mean? My once clear mind is gone, leaving room for chaos. This chaos is of many questions that are unanswered for now. The shadow d i s a p p e a r s. Breakfast (2) The door to my room suddenly clicks before opening. "You''re awake" An older woman enters. She''s dressed in a ebony and white frilly maid clothing, owning hair the color of a ginger orange in the style of a messy bun. Those black and stern eyes that belongs to her seem as if they''veIf you spot this tale on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation. seen a lot in life. I wonder what those eyes have seen. "Eat up okay? Don''t move around too much." She insists. I wince in slight pain and sit back on the soft bed I got up from. The maid puts the tray on my lap before leaving. There''s a click followed after she shuts the door. I look down at my breakfast. It consists of two fresh toast with purple jam on it. next to the toast with jam, there''s one boiled egg sliced in two followed by seaweed salad. Then to wash it all down, there''s a glass of orange juice. Purple Marmalade (3) I pick up one of the toast and take a bite. Crunch. Crunch. Munch. The jam has a popping and loud taste of berry and honey fussed If you encounter this story on Amazon, note that it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it. together as one. It''s pleasing to the tongue and deeply delicious. Suddenly, my eyes begin to water. Why am I crying? Sniffle. Sniffle. A quick flash of a image comes to mind. I think it was.. of a charming smile that belongs to someone other than I. Charming Smile (4) The feeling of dread taps at my shoulder. The cuts that are wrapped in bandages begin to burn even worse. That charming smile belongs to him. I don''t know his name though or any facial features other than his charming smile. I want to know his name.The tale has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation. Where is he? Who is he? A quick flash of a scene plays in my mind. Him and I are together. We talk and laugh. Right after this, everything''s a blur. My hands begin to tremble. The seaweed salad taste awful. There''s a smell too that reeks of rotten flesh and metallic blood. "Something happened underneath the crimson sky." I whisper quietly. "H a h a h a h a." Someone is laughing from behind me?? Caged in (5) After breakfast, I place the partially cleaned tray on the lamp stand table. I stand to my feet, my entire body is still in pain yet that doesn''t matter now. With slow steps, I walk to the onlyThe author''s tale has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon. door leading outside. *Pull* I try to open the door by using the doorknob yet it doesn''t budge. It''s locked from the outside. My hand gently touches over the wooden door surface before knocking on it. "Hey! Is anyone out there?" I call out, my voice is neither too loud or low. No answer. Awfully enough I begin to feel cold. Seems like I''m trapped here. Forever. Caged in like a pet bird. Window (6) From behind me, I feel a change from something. My mind must be playing games. I could have sworn there wasn''t a window next to me. For when I had awoke the first time, this room only had walls. I pick up the glass of almost gone orange juice and take a few This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road. If you spot it on Amazon, please report it. sips before placing it back on the tray. A glowing white light comes from the window. It beckons for me to come close. With no hesitation, I get on the bed to get a closer look out the window. I squint my eyes a little, undoing the small latches that keeps the window shut. After being successful, I raise up the window, glancing outside. Beyond this very room, there''s a bright sun and a blue firmament. I wish that it would swallow me whole. Below me, the ground too is a bright sun and blue firmament. It''s almost acting as a mirror maybe? Reflecting the very sky. How can the ground reflect the sky? Window (7) I''m dreaming? Have I gone mad? Where am I? Where am I? What is this place? I don''t want to be here anymore! I don''t feel safe. My palms and entire body is all sweaty with anticipation. If I leave this very room, then I willTaken from Royal Road, this narrative should be reported if found on Amazon. be free. If I escape through this glorious window, this emotion of fear and emptiness will leave from me. It will disappear and disperse into thin air. All traces of it wiped from existence. At the window, there is someone outside. A young girl with deep crimson long hair falling to her legs and gray eyes. She''s floating and is wearing a cute purple kimono. "L e t ''s l e a v e t o g e t h e r." She whispers, showing a sweet smile on her pink lips. Escape? (8) Yes. I want that. Let''s leave together! With enough energy, I manage to get half of my body through the window. The floating girl with red long hair extends out her hand for me to accept. My body floats out the room and I grab the mysterious girl''s hand. Stolen from its original source, this story is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings. Her sweet smile distorts instantly into a wide and sinister grin. H a h a h a h a h a h a ! She holds my hand super tight as we both descend to the bottom which is reflecting the blue sky. "Ahhhhhhhhhhh!" I scream to the top of my lugs. Just like that, the girl disappears and the blue sky below shows its true appearance. I''ve been tricked, falling head first into the concrete white stairs. S..mash. C r a c k. C r a c k. That was the sound of all the bones in my body snapping and breaking like thin twigs. Yet there''s no pain as I feel hot liquid ooze out of my body. My vision fades to black. Back to Reality! (9) I breath in and out through my mouth with a pumping and an anxious heart. I''m sitting on the bed and haven''t even gotten done with breakfast yet. I look behind me to only see a much smaller window that I can''t reach. It also seems as if the sky''s a cloudy one. Stolen content warning: this tale belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences elsewhere. Was I just daydreaming? The sudden urge to weep befalls me. I cry and cry, not understanding anything. Didn''t I just die? The white bandages all over my body are turning red. A deep and dark sticky crimson. There''s that same click again from the door. The person who opens it is that maid again. She brings in a glass of water and a black pill the size of a quarter. "W-who are you?" I asked. Sudden rage overwhelms me as I stand up, forgetting the tray of breakfast as it falls from my lap and smashes on the ground. "Take this pill and I will tell you." The woman promises, wearing a small smile. Black Pill (10) "Won''t I choke and die?" I asked once more shaking my head in refusal. "It''s actually super gummy so you can chew it if you want." The maid reassures me. She has another black pill and swallow one herself without water. I end up taking the pill with water, chewing before swallowing. The pill has a greasyThe narrative has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident. taste of licorice and peppermint. Yuck! "You''re so cute with that face." The maid laughs. So nasty.. I whine before downing all the glass of the water. Once I''m done, the maid takes the glass away from me, placing it on the lamp stand table. In curiosity, I decide to start with a simple question, "So what''s your name, ma''am?" I sit back down on my bed. "My name is Cassandra" Cassandra? Cassandra? Cassandra? That''s a cute name. Now my body feels relaxed and the pain is numbing away, "Where am I, Cassandra?" Cassandra (11) Cassandra gets down on her knees to try and clean the mess I''ve made with her hands. "I''m afraid I can''t tell you. It''s an oath I''ve made with Ronin." I lay back in bed, staring up at the ceiling. Who''s Ronin? The name sounds a bit familiar. "Cassandra, why are you keeping secrets from me?" Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on Royal Road. I asked in a sharp tone of voice. This question came out of nowhere. It''s almost as if I''m talking unwillingly. "Cassandra, I won''t tell. Please just give me a hint." I beg. As I glance at her, Cassandra stands up with the tray of neglected food, a broken plate and multiple shards of glass. Her eyes are super glassy. She parts her lips slightly yet no words come out. It''s almost as if she wants to tell me something. "We don''t know each other so please, don''t request something so highly from me." Cassandra looks emotionally distressed. That''s a sign right there isn''t it? She''s hiding something. Secrets (12) "Later today, around lunch time, you will be given a a chance to shower. For as of now, rest some more." Cassandra insists. I glance away from her and stare back up at the ceiling. I feel so relaxed yet very mad. Cassandra quickly Stolen content warning: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences. leaves from the room. The click went off after she left. Cassandra. Ronin. and secrets. That daydream from earlier too. That girl with crimson hair? The real question is. who was that? She led me to a false death. She. Before I can think of anything else, sleep takes over. Nows there''s nothing but pure darkness embracing me. I''m left to the secrets of the unknown. ?????? (13) I stand over a pale female with long black strands of hair. She wears a pink night gown while her arms and legs are covered in white bandages. This female is sleeping The story has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation. in bed. I use the back of my index finger to caress her soft cheek. Her sleeping face appears to be so careless. I hate it so much. How can she just take my place? Why? Why? Why? Why? Why? Why? Why? She must DiE! ?????? (14) Ah, this girl is dreaming. Her sleeping face suddenly shows discomfort. I back away, going through the door which is locked from the outside. The hallway is empty and quiet. I proceed to walk until I come face to face with a dark shadow. The tale has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation. "We have work to do." It tells me. "Yes we do. What''s the plan?" I question the shadow. The shadow leads me to the mansion''s library. On a reading table, there''s a red plain book with the only title called, Cast the Die. It''s written in golden letters. I''ve read this book before. The shadow opens the first page. It''s all blank though. Blank? (15) I awake and sit up in bed. Despite having a nightmare, I can''t really recall any of it. No progress of gaining memory neither. How long was I sleeping? The door clicks and who entersReading on this site? This novel is published elsewhere. Support the author by seeking out the original. is once more Cassandra. I''m getting tired of seeing her. "Shower time." She says, going over to the brown cupboard to fish out some clothes for me. I stand up and wait for her. At any moment I could try and escape. I wonder? If I stay in this very place any longer. what will become of me. Speaking of that, what''s even my name? Hm..? Hall (16) Cassandra and I exit from the room that felt like my eternity. As I follow her to the left, I can''t help but look around. There''s white and black vintage wallpaper with patterns in the shape Stolen from its rightful place, this narrative is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings. of many red roses. The floors are made of mahogany wood and feels very cold on my bare feet. As much as I would love to stop and explore, Cassandra is keeping a close eye on me despite being in front. "How huge is this building?" "Well the place has three stories. We Are on the third one." Cassandra merely explains. I stay quiet. Shower (17) In the bathroom, Cassandra helps remove the white and red bandages. The crimson liquid has dried up and the burning is no more. I wonder how I acquired these wounds. I watch as Cassandra If you discover this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation. gets the shower going, there''s a sink, closet door and also no mirror. "Isn''t there supposed to be a mirror at the sink?" I asked. Cassandra turns away from the shower, looking at me with a bit of shock, "Erwell in this bathroom there''s no mirror." Before I can say anything else, Cassandra leaves the bathroom. I frown slightly and remove my clothes, stepping into the shower. The water is very warm and feels so foreign as it falls and touches all over my bareskin. Wounds (18) I notice something strange as I step out the shower and use a white and fluffy towel to dry my body. The wounds on my arms and legs have healed as if they were never there. Never there. A knock startles meYou could be reading stolen content. Head to Royal Road for the genuine story. out of my thoughts as I begin to quickly dress. I put on my undergarments first, followed by a brown and a soft tent-like dress with long sleeves. It hugs my body frame and isn''t too tight or loose. I slip into the new black flats given to me and exit from the bathroom. Cassandra was waiting for me, "You look very pretty." She compliments, smiling kindly. I merely nod, not really being sure of that. There wasn''t a mirror in the bathroom so how would I know? Dinner (19) After traveling down three flights of stairs, Cassandra leads me to a dinning hall. I almost forgot food existed. How long has it been since I haven''t eaten?If you encounter this narrative on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it. In this huge room, there''s orange luminescent light from the ceiling, setting the mood for a great feast. There''s two plates and silverware decorated nicely on the black and long table. Cassandra pulls a chair from the table and I sit down, feeling a little nervous. Dinner (20) Cassandra exits from the dining hall through black double doors that leads to the kitchen. I sit patiently. Who else will be eating dinner with me? Help support creative writers by finding and reading their stories on the original site. This question is the most potent one yet. The door to the dining room opens from behind me. I glance back, mouth going agape with shock. A male with white hair neatly trimmed to his shoulders and eyes the color of red enters the room. He''s wearing a nice black and fancy suit, the bow tie is the same color as his eyes. "Hello, Miss Tsukino." Tsukino (21) Tsu.k......i...no? Tsukino? A scene flashes before my eyes. There''s a girl with black long hair. She didn''t lookThis tale has been unlawfully obtained from Royal Road. If you discover it on Amazon, kindly report it. alive. With hollow eyes the color of gloomy clouds, she had breathed her last. The scene is now gone as I calm down. I glance at the male who sits across from me, "Is my name is Tsukino?" I question him. The other male nods in agreement, "Yes." He replies. "Do you have a name?" "The name''s Ronin." Ronin (22) "Sounds a bit familiar." I think out loud, feeling a tad bit uneasy. "Oh really?" Ronin looks fascinated with me, showing a small smile. "Yes.." I reply, wishing for Ronin to stop staring at me. His azure eyes feel The narrative has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the infringement. as if they''re drowning me. I want to ask so many things yet I feel so s c a r e d to do so. Before I can form any words, Cassandra exits from the kitchen with a tray. She ends up serving us a delicate meal. Cooked Salmon with stream beans and mashed loaded potatoes. For drinking there''s either water or red wine. Eating (23) Everything taste so delicious. My favorite is salmon. It has a distinct flavor that I can''t help but love. Cassandra leaves the two of us be. Seems as if she''s upset. MAYBE.. it was my imagination.This book is hosted on another platform. Read the official version and support the author''s work. "So Tsukino, how are you?" Ronin asks. I blush, "I''m okay." "That''s good to know." Ronin eats in a elegant fashion as I watch him. I realize my eating is quite the opposite. I''ve been eating with my hands.? I quickly clean my hands with a napkin and start to eat with the silverware. For some reason, Ronin stares back with deep interest. I wonder why. ??????? (24) ''The sky is a crimson blue.'' ''The sky is a crimson blue.'' What does that even mean? Ronin is eating with the new girl. The new girl ends upThis story has been stolen from Royal Road. If you read it on Amazon, please report it vomiting, tee hee~ She has no class. I CAN''T SEE WHY HE IS SO INTO HER. "Cassandra!" Ronin yells. Cassandra comes right away to his aid, striking the new girl in the back of the head with a metal pipe. The new girl slumps unconscious in her seat. ??????? (25) Cassandra and Ronin converse yet I can''t hear their voices. Something causes my attention else where. I go through the dining room''s door, noticing the new girl- Tsukino. You could be reading stolen content. Head to Royal Road for the genuine story. She is wandering the halls, or rather her ghost is. She''s in a state such as I, yet at least it''s not permanent. Ah, I have a plan. I go back into the dining room, trying to slip into Tsukino''s body. I am almost successful before a great force pushes me back. "What are you doing?" A sharp voice asks from behind. It belongs to Tsukino. I turn around to face her, wearing a smirk, ".ydob ruoy revo ekat lliw I nooS" R?d ?a?r (26) "Tsuki.." Someone whispers in my ear. "no." They whisper, their voice sounds honeyed. With my blurry vision, I can see someone hovering over me, having red hair. Support the creativity of authors by visiting the original site for this novel and more. "We are the same." "I don''t believe you." I mutter, getting a faint flash back. There''s been an incident. At a school, a girl with long strands of crimson f E l L to her death. She was overwhelmed by dread and dark thoughts. All because of. h?????i?????m????????????????. Lovers? (27) I lay up in bed, wincing from the slight pain at the back of my head. The food didn''t agree with my stomach. That was embarrassing. I can feel my cheeks burn. As I stand up, my bedroom door opens to only reveal Ronin. Stolen from its rightful place, this narrative is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings. "Are you okay now?" He asks, wearing a concerned expression. "Why do you care?" I retort, not believing a word from his mouth. "I only care because we are lovers." "I don''t believe you!" "Maybe you should." Ronin walks over to me, I back away. "You don''t remember me." I shake my head and glance away from Ronin''s eyes. Water droplets fall from eyes and to my lap. I have no recollection of anything. I''m here in this strange place and everything seems off. Lovers? (28) Ronin embraces me, trying to console me. I don''t move or hug back, feeling so cold. Aren''t hugs supposed to be warm? "Cerise." Ronin whispers in my ear. His voice sounds oddly sweet. That name sounds familiar. "That''s your new name for now The tale has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident. on." Ronin announces, "If you accept that name, I will reveal to you many secrets." Ronin pulls away from me, cupping my face with both of his cold hands. My heart thumbs rapidly at this new fear. Ronin claims that we are both lovers. This mysterious guy I don''t know. Then my name goes from Tsukino to Cerise? "I''m waiting for your decision." Ronin breaks me from out of my thoughts. What should I do? > Agree with being called Cerise? or > Refuse and stay in the dark? ?? Parallel / Cerise (28) ★ "Cerise is a lovely name, Ronin." I agree, smiling. It''s unwanted. "You think that, Cerise?" "Yes, I do." I stand to my feet, hugging Ronin who hugs back If you encounter this tale on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it. gently. Joining in on the hug unexpectedly is a female with long red hair and gray eyes. I can''t look away, giving into her stare. After a couple of seconds, she disappears. I close my eyes and memories return back to me. These sweet and bitter foreign memories. Parallel / Cerise (27) Memories UNLOCKED. Today is school and I hate it. Why can''t I just stay home? School uniform, backpack, and toast. "Goodbye..home." I whisper with a smallThis story originates from a different website. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there. smile before leaving the lone building. My parents are traveling overseas, having great jobs as scientists. Rather, to be more honest, they are paranormal scientists. They haven''t been home for a while. I hope they''re safe. On my commute to school, It begins raining very hard. I didn''t bring an umbrella. I hardly watch TV, let alone the news. Parallel / Cerise (26) At school, drenched in rain, I ignore the many stares from other students. I remove my wet outside shoes, replacing them with the cleaned school ones. "Cerise!" Calls out a familiar voice. I blush and close my shoe locker, seeing.Unauthorized use of content: if you find this story on Amazon, report the violation. the handsome and popular Ronin Azriel. "Good morning." I reply back. "Are you cold?" He offers me his uniform suit jacket. Before I can reply, a girl with short blonde hair and yellow eyes wears a sharp glare. Not wanting to create chaos, I walk away, refusing to accept Ronin''s kind gesture. I''m glad I did. H a h a h a h a h a h a h a h a. An unwanted smirk creeps onto my lips. Parallel / Cerise (25) Entering the girl''s restroom, I lock myself in a stall, trying to calm my nerves. I look in my bag, grabbing a box of cigarettes and a lighter. I lit up a single cigarette and begin to inhale the toxins. I exhale after a Enjoying this book? Seek out the original to ensure the author gets credit. few seconds, watching the smoke form into strange shapes. The taste isn''t satisfying. yet it helps with easing my mind just a little. I check my watch, noticing it''s ten minutes before school starts. C.. r..e..a..k The door to the restroom opens. "Nina you look so cute today!" "You tell me that everyday, Ami" I recognize these two voices. They belong to Nina the enchantress and Ami, the faithful simp. Parallel / Cerise (24) "What''s that awful smell!" Ami whines. "It''s coming from one of the stalls." Nina says, making her way over to my stall. "Oh it''s you, Cerise! Don''t you know smoking is against school policy!" Nina says, being a know-it-all. I don''t reply to her, throwing my cigarette on the ground as I stomp it out. "Should I tell on you?" Nina questions, sounding like she''s playing. The tale has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation. "You smoke as well in here so don''t be so hypocritical." I reply back, unlocking the door to my stall. I open it and Nina stands in my way, "Move please." I demand. She doesn''t budge, staring at me with those yellow eyes. "Drink from the toilet and then I will move." "Ask Ami to do it!'' I yell, pushing my way through Nina who ends up pushing me backwards. "Do it or else." Ami threatens, holding up a pretty can of pepper spray as she walks to Ninas side. I secretly grab my pocket knife, debating on whether or not I should use it. These two are monsters yet so am I. Maybe I should allow my beast to come out and PLAY. Parallel / Cerise (23) One can only guess what happens when there''s two against one. Cerise VS Ami & Nina. I had no choice but to drink from the toilet water, being an obedient slave. They never leave me alone. The narrative has been illicitly obtained; should you discover it on Amazon, report the violation. I retaliated once and it was their words against mine. A lie against a truth. Everyone believe lies nowadays, being happily tricked before dying. As I drink more and more toilet water, I can taste the cleaning products. It washes away the smoke taste. I would rather have that taste more than this. Ninai records, grinning LIKE she just won oscar award for famous actress. Ami''s expression looks no different as she merely watches. Parallel / Cerise (22) Ami shakes up the can of pepper spray, on instinct, I knock the can out of Ami''s hand, punching her straight in the face with my fist. Nina push me backwards as I try to escape the two. Ami gains a nose bleed, suddenly charging at me in this cramped stall. I lose my awareness, trying my best to fight off the angry girl. "Take this, you stubborn bi*tch!" The story has been illicitly taken; should you find it on Amazon, report the infringement. Nina insults. She had already found the pepper spray, dispersing it towards me which ends up hitting my eyes. Ami was merely a decoy as she pulls my hair. Stoping this torture is the school''s bell Ami pushes me to the floor, quickly storming out with a bloody nose. Nina laughs in amusement, before spitting on me, "Next time, keep your mouth shut and just do as I say." She sashays away and exits from the restroom, leaving me alone. I end up sobbing, slowly making my way out the stall and to the sink to wash out my eyes. It burns. Along with my rage. Parallel / Cerise (21) Despite making it to school early, I end up being thirty minutes late, the spray in my eyes have been washed out, yet the after effect left my eyes all red. I stare at my reflection in the mirror, such a pitiful mess. I try to clean up and Did you know this story is from Royal Road? Read the official version for free and support the author. look decent, grabbing my school bag. I exit the restroom, heading straight to class. After climbing one flight of stairs and turning right, I am met with my classroom door. I sigh, sliding open the door before entering inside. To my surprise there''s no teacher. Many stare at me and are talkative as usual. I notice Ronin yet pay him no mind. Seems like it''s study hall period. Parallel / Cerise (20) Out of boredom, I stare at Ronin and blush. My cheeks burn with an unknown passion. Ronin looks up and sees that I''m staring. He winks playfully, sitting two seats across from me. If only I can gain the courage to hang out with him here rather than outside of school. This narrative has been purloined without the author''s approval. Report any appearances on Amazon. We''ve been dating for six months now. On my phone, I receive a text from Ronin. Ronin: "Hey, you don''t look so well." Me: Today only started off bad yet seeing you makes me happy. Ronin is typing.. I love him so much, he''s so kind and loving. Ronin doesn''t make me feel less. There''s also a secret we both hold dear. No one of this world knows other than the two of us. Today we will make things right. Parallel / Cerise (19) Ronin: You will be happy once we start with the plan. Me: Sounds a bit scary, yet I have nothing to lose. I will do anything for you. Ronin: Same here. ?? I suddenly put my phone away. The realization of what I must do Reading on Amazon or a pirate site? This novel is from Royal Road. Support the author by reading it there. hits me hard. Ronin and I are fans of the occult. Well.Ronin was the one who introduced it to me first. Ronin has been doing research about various dimensions. Along with that, him and I are both bonkers. Maybe he''s a little more extreme with it and also good at hiding who he truly is behind closed doors. I don''t see anything wrong with that. I love him for him and not for anything else. Parallel / Cerise (18) After study hall, the school bell for lunch signals. I stand up from my desk, frowning at the realization that I didn''t bring lunch with me today. I roll my eyes, patting the wrinkles out of my black skirt and collect my things. I watch as Ronin alreadyIf you encounter this story on Amazon, note that it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it. slip out the classroom, wishing he would have waited for me so we could leave together. I calm down my sad emotions, reminding myself that Ronin strictly said that our relationship is sacred. Which also means no one from school should know. We shouldn''t give away personal business to childish beings. As I exit the classroom, there''s commotion already happening. Parallel / Cerise (17) "Cerise''s video is going viral." Nina snickers, showing the humiliating state I was in from this morning to a few students. I pull out my phone, seeing that my famous video has been uploaded to social media an hour later after the ordeal happened. The video is also heavily edited with dumb effects along with leaving outStolen from Royal Road, this story should be reported if encountered on Amazon. the fact I gave Ami a beautiful bloody nose. All the bystanders are laughing and talking about me. To make matters even worse, Ninai brings Ronin to her side and shows him the video. Ronin''s lips curl into a innocent smile before he laughs. I always feel so confused about one particular thing. Ronin plays the part so well. He pretends, reminding me of a magician. Oh how much I wish the roles were reversed. Parallel / Cerise (16) Ronin notices my staring and I quickly turn away to go to the cafeteria. I''m like a clown wearing a black mask. Someone who''s a mystery. Someone who''s not interesting at all until I''m made a joke of to the whole crowd. I''m a laughing stalk. A black clown who''s intentions are unknown. You might be reading a stolen copy. Visit Royal Road for the authentic version. Soon, things will be known. I will become invincible, pushed to the brink of something inevitable. I can''t help this D~E~S~I~R~E. ITS MY D - dramatical E - exciting S - sinful I - involuntary R - rigorous E - ending It''s going to be so lovely. This clown will finally remove her black mask and behold, enjoy her eternal life by how it''s meant to truly be. Ronin feels the same way about this as well. Parallel / Cerise (15) I sit alone at a small cafeteria table. My tray consists of, sliced apples, tempura, soba noodles, and sweet bread. For my choice in drinking, I decided to go with plain water. I ignore the many stares from students, eating This tale has been pilfered from Royal Road. If found on Amazon, kindly file a report. slowly. I''m so bored. I can''t wait to see Ronin so that I can watch him. To my liking, Ronin sits down at a second table right in front of me. To my disliking, he''s with Nina and Ami Ronin seems to be holding a nice conversation with the two. Not a while ago, Nina made an assumption that I was very much obsessed with Ronin. I accidentally left my phone in class and she begin to snoop like a curious cat. Parallel / Cerise (14) Yes, I do have many pictures of Ronin that are taken from outside angles. Strange enough, before my photos, Ronin approached me and confessed. It was at the school rooftop, after hours when it was time to go home. This happened during my sophomore year of high school at the time. Ronin was so honest, he even showed all the outside photos he got of me. This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road. If you spot it on Amazon, please report it. Flattered by this, I decided to do the same thing, to show my love to him which is the same as his for me. Any girl would be creeped out about a guy taking photos of her without consent yet I am quite the opposite. Ronin never really told me why he fell madly in love with me. Only these haunting words, "I saw a girl in my dreams from childhood. She looked a lot like you and so that''s why I have to make sure you''re mine." I simply replied with, "That''s very odd of you to say yet because I look like the girl in your dreams from childhood, then I guess I''m really her." Now, I dont regret accepting Ronin and becoming his dream girl. Parallel / Cerise (13) Snapping me out of my thoughts is Nina kissing Ronin on the lips out of the blue. Ronin kisses back, as if all of his words up until now were all facades. Phony looking antique dolls that breaks with a single touch. My rage once more awakens. Not because of RoninDid you know this story is from Royal Road? Read the official version for free and support the author. yet merely because of Nina. She''s always been a nuisance, thinking she''s better than me all because of her looks and how her parents spoil her. Believe it or not, the two of us were friends. Merely back in Elementary and half of middle school until a fateful incident had transpired. Ami somehow crept in and made a lie about me. It was so convincing that even Nina herself fell subject to it. This lie was: "Cerise sent me a text from her email revealing her master plan. She is so infatuated with you, Nina and is also madly in love with you that she wants to become you." Parallel / Cerise (12) The only thing Ami truly wanted was to become best friends with Nina and take my place. She made the false email messages of her and I look so real and so that''s when I got the nickname, black clown. Despite Ami doing this, I''ve come to a conclusion that the lie she created links to her being that lie. If you spot this narrative on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation. Ever since my ruin and Ami''s progress to happiness, she has always been by Ninas side. The way Ami looks at Ninai when Nina isn''t looking is the way Ronin and I stare at each other outside of school. Ronin even revealed to me a few dark secrets belonging to Nina and even Ami. Also of countless others who go to this high school. Yet I don''t care about Ami or Nina to try and simply leek their dark secrets. Spreading lies is the new agenda of today''s society, while truth is forced to stay quiet or else. Slowly turning everyone into insane little astronauts until they die from lack of oxygen. Parallel / Cerise (11) My lunch has grown cold and has barely been touched. I drink my cup of water, Ignoring the many souls in the cafeteria as I pack up and leave. Secretly, I can feel Ronin''s intense stare as I leave. Hopefully he comes and follow to explain his actions with Nina. Mindlessly, I walk to the third floor and then to the stairs leading up to theLove what you''re reading? Discover and support the author on the platform they originally published on. school''s rooftop. The air smells fresh and the sky is a blue firmament, soon to be dyed in red from this black clown. I sit down on the rooftop''s ground, opening a packet of sweet bread before eating. The flavor has red bean taste in the middle. I miss Ronin. I know he''s not going to show up here. He''s taking care of business as we speak. What business is that you inquire? I''m not supposed to tell and I swore I wouldn''t tell. Like I said before, he pretends so well that I sometimes get caught up into an emotional frenzy. Him and I are both monsters. Parallel / Cerise (10) I''m suddenly spinning and spiraling into madness. It''s been this way since the day my. my parents died. After losing Nina as a close friend thanks to Ami, I got a phone call from one of my parent''s colleagues. I did say that myStolen content warning: this tale belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences elsewhere. parents were paranormal scientists. They researched on many things relating into the occult which then spiraled down to my parents joining a cult. It''s funny how I was so in denial. Thinking they would come back home to me. The colleague, Miss Angela said that my parents'' deaths were under mysterious circumstances and that I will be heavily paid to live and stay in their home which now belongs to me. An empty house with a ghost, the black clown as I. Parallel / Cerise (9) The school bell rings, telling everyone that lunch is over. I wipe away my teary eyes and sniffle. Have I been crying? This black clown shouldn''t be crying. She swore to herself that tears are only Reading on this site? This novel is published elsewhere. Support the author by seeking out the original. a distraction. .. WAHHHHHHHHHHHH! My own sobs sound so painful. It hurts to listen to this terrible music. "Cerise." A gentle voice speaks from behind. I glance back, eyes widening. "Ronin.you''re not supposed to be here." I sniffle. Parallel / Cerise (8) Ronin embraces my body into a loving hug. I don''t hug back, thinking this has to be my imagination. "Is it really you?" I inquire, pushing him away as my face wrinkle in disgust. "It is. Are you MAD about whatIf you come across this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it. you saw at the cafeteria?" "Mmm.maybe a little. Maybe a lot. You bastard!" I burst into a fit of laughter. Ronin has been like a drug, making me forget all of things that broke me until now. "She''s all game. Do you recall?" I eerily watch Ronin talk, knowing that he''s not lying. He just has a funny and distorted way of destruction. Or maybe another word for it, is tricking others. Parallel / Cerise (7) I make my way over to Ronin, forcing a rough kiss onto his lips. He kisses back, biting my lip slightly. I wince in annoyance and push him away. My lip is bleeding just a little, "You know I hate Unauthorized duplication: this tale has been taken without consent. Report sightings. it when you kiss me like that." "It''s a farwell." "Oh yeah, I forgot about that." I laugh once more, It''s more of a bittersweet laugh. Ronin winks and smirks in amusement, "See you." "Wait!" I yell out, grabbing Ronin''s arm. I create a smirk that replicates his own. Parallel / Ronin (6) Cerise. My sweet Cerise. I glance down at her, my heart feels odd. "What is it?" I asks her. She hugs me, wrapping her arms around my waist. "Until we meet again." She replies, having so much confidence. She''s just like the girlThe story has been taken without consent; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident. from my dream. She was twisted and slowly letting go of her sanity. Just as I. I hug her back, holding back my tears of joy. "I have to get to class." I whisper, gently tapping Cerise''s nose with my index finger. Cerise, my muse with long damp red hair and beautiful ebony eyes grin innocently. Her cheeks are dusty with a red hue, I kiss her again on her pink pump lips. This time the kiss is less harsh and more gentle just like she likes it. Cerise kisses back before pushing me away. "Goodbye." She finally says. She''s ready. Parallel / Cerise (5) I watch as Ronin leave me alone. There''s nothing but the rooftop, I, and the sky alone. Today. At this very moment, the firmament will witness my D~E~S~I~R~E. "The sky will be a crimson blue." I whisper. I leave my school bag and half eaten sweet bread on the Unauthorized tale usage: if you spot this story on Amazon, report the violation. ground. I take a deep breath, getting close to the edge of this three story height. Below me is nothing but concrete and also the front entrance of the school building. I can also spot a few people, they all look like little ants. Well. here goes. I take off my clean school shoes, falling forward. I dive head first into the concrete. Sheer pain of broken bones overwhelm my senses for a couple of seconds. There''s screaming and then darkness. Utter darkness and nothingness. Parallel / Cerise (4) I open my eyes, coming face to face with Ronin. There''s something off about him though. He seems a bit different yet he''s always been that way hasn''t he? "Welcome back!" Ronin blushes and smiles charmingly. My eyes widen in If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation. shock. Something feels different about me. My body is no longer transparent. It''s real. I''m alive. "Is this real?" I question Ronin. He stares at me in complete astonishment. "It''s indeed real." He replies back. I run out of the lone room Tsukino was caged in. That stupid girl. I can''t believe she gave in. I want to see my reflection. I would love to see it. I must. Parallel / Cerise (3) I enter through a random door, noticing it''s a nice furnished room. It''s more nicer than where Tsukino was staying. Entering the room after me is Ronin. He looks happy and I wear the same expression. I shyly make my way to the freestanding black mirror. My reflection looks You might be reading a pirated copy. Look for the official release to support the author. beautiful. It''s like I''ve been restored. The more I stare, the more I notice something. Standing behind me, are dead ghost like figures. Two of them. It''s Nina and Ami. I scream and look away from the mirror, shielding my face into Ronin''s chest. "What''s the matter, honey?" He asks in deep concern. I become teary-eyed, "I saw Nina and Ami standing behind me." I reply, hating to see their faces. Parallel / Cerise (2) I look up at Ronin, seeing his handsome features. His white hair has grown longer to his shoulders. Next, his red eyes look vibrant and I can''t recall them looking that way back then. Before all of this. "So.after I died, what happened? Did you miss me?" I tease, pulling away from our hug. Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on Royal Road. Ronin shrugs, "I don''t know how to explain. The process of your passing and also setting this place up was challenging." He sure does look troubled. That can only mean. terrible things must have happened. "Is seeing the dead ghost of Nina and Ami a part of this?" I question Ronin who merely chuckle. "I would be a liar to say no." He enthuses. A sweet smile forms on my lips. Turning into a wicked one as I and Ronin walk over to the mirror. Together. Our reflections are beautiful yet not really beautiful. Parallel / Cerise (1) Don''t stare in the mirror for too long. It revealed our true forms. Ronin''s true appearance doesn''t look like the one I just saw with my own eyes. For in the mirror, he looks like he did on the day I left him. On that day when the sky was a crimson red. Unauthorized use of content: if you find this story on Amazon, report the violation. During our high school days, Ronin wore a white bowl cut style, often wearing red contacts. Along his neck is a deep sliced wound while his school uniform looks all dirty and unkempt with dried blood. Lots of it. My appearance on other hand, is rather gone until you step closer and look to the ground. My body is lying face on the ground, while the rest of my body is twisted and broken in many ways. We look like beautiful monsters. Vengeful ghost on a insane rampage. Parallel / Cerise (0) I close my eyes, frowning. Ronin brings the both of us away from the mirror. He coos, "Open your eyes. It''s over now." I open my eyes and pout, this feeling of dread is intense and the smell of my body reeks. It smells of dead flesh. Ronin doesn''t smell that way though and crazy enough he Unauthorized tale usage: if you spot this story on Amazon, report the violation. looks calm about everything. "Is this place really, Beladim?" I asks, slowly calming down. "It is. I made sure this dimension was able to form and stay in- tact permanently for all of us." "Who''s all of us?" "You sure do ask many questions yet I guess it''s only natural." I roll my eyes from Ronin''s rude word choice. I stare outside the window, removing the white sheer cloth. The sky reminds me of that day. I do recall luring Tsukino to a false death, while casting the slight illusion of the ground reflecting the sky. Parallel / Cerise (????) While studying with Ronin about Beladim when the two of us were alive, I can recall a few minor things. For starters time flows very different here, the day is long and especially at night. Along with that, the scenery changes. It changes with Ronin''s commands mostly or even mine. The author''s content has been appropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon. Yet withTetsuya, the scenery outside changes to nothing but a pure sky. The pure sky of earth is the scenery now. The ground doesn''t give an optical illusion. With Tetsuya there''s an entire sky and this entire mansion floats aimlessly. "Did your brother have an interest in the occult?" I asks Ronin who looks annoyed, "In a way he did but nothing too serious. Yet he''s smart and likes to snoop into things that don''t belong to him." "Maybe if we torture him, he won''t be so much of a nuisance." I blurt out. Ronin nods in approval. Parallel / Cerise (End) As Ronin ends up having a talk with Tetsuya, his older brother, I stay outside the room, thinking of Tsukino. She''s my beloved cousin. I didn''t really know her yet she was pretty sweet when the two of us would hang out as kids. Her and I are like polar opposites. I think she didn''t deserve to get dragged into this, but Ronin will do anything for me. And I will do anything for him. If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. Please report it. Inside the room where Tetsuya and Ronin are in, I can hear the two fighting. I would go in, yet I don''t want to disobey Ronin. One Two Three Four Five Tetsuya''s scream echoes throughout the entire mansion. The scenery outside changes to a crimson sky. A tear falls from my right eye and I wipe it away in confusion. oH wAiT a SeCoND.. Tsukino and Tetsuya were very close. What a small world. Or rather for now on, this will be their eternal hell. For I have a fake requiem song for the following. Tsukino Kojima Tetsuya Azriel Nina Clementine Ami Vidale & Adam Sawyer??? Soon..you will all become real life puppets. Or maybe just like Ronin and I. Splendid. Parallel / Tsukino (29) ?? As if breaking out of a trance, I push Ronin away from me. I glare, " My name is Tsukino, not Cerise." "Then.I guess you will stay in the dark forever, Tsukino. You will always be clueless. imprisoned in this room." Ronin chuckles, If you come across this story on Amazon, it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it. knowing that his words are always absolute. He turns away from me, heading to the door. I watch, a voice near my left ear whispers. "Attack." I get goosebumps all over my skin yet with no hesitation, I charge at Ronin, knocking him over. He clearly didn''t expect this, falling to the ground. I open the door to small freedom and escape. No longer being confined in that room. I will not stay in there forever. Dead-end (30) I run as far as my feet can take me, trying to find an valid exit. I run towards a tall window, there''s something about it that gives off the feeling of hope. There''s a beautiful painted picture on the glass, displaying a holy red rose. Stolen from its rightful author, this tale is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings. With closer steps, the hall that I thought was a dead-end turns into the complete opposite. There''s more to explore? Many rooms and also another set of stairs leading to SOMEWHERE. Before I can even take a proper look around, someone grabs and pulls me away from the window. They hold my waist firmly as they cover my mouth with their hand. We are hiding on the right end of the hall. A door creaks open, heavy footsteps can be heard from behind US. RONIN is searching for me. Adam (31) "Hmm..where could you be, Tsukino? Ronin thinks out loud. His voice sounds very near and eerily sweet. Speaking of near, this stranger is so strong that I can''t get out of their grasp. Ronin ends up leaving the area, not even pursing me further in the correct direction. The mysterious captor frees me and I turn Find this and other great novels on the author''s preferred platform. Support original creators! around.. I''m face to face with a tall male. He has light hazel eyes and short brownish red hair. He''s also wearing cool goth attire that makes me think of a boy in a rock band. My cheeks heat up slightly as I continue staring. "Whoa.Tetsuya wasn''t lying when he said you were a cutie." The male comments, smirking playfully. "What?" I question him. The male introduces himself right away, "I am Adam, a noble citizen of this very mansion." I end up smiling, not really knowing if I should take this guy seriously. He''s a new face I never expected to see. Hidden (32) "How did you do that?" "Do what?" I peek down the hall, wanting to see if Ronin truly left. He did leave. but so did that entire hall I came from. A wall has been replaced. Blocking the direction I just came from. As if it was never there. "Oh, if you''re wondering about that, it''s a strong illusion created by Tetsuya to keep us hidden The narrative has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident. from malicious energy." Adam explains rather calmly. I touch the wall and it''s solid. Feels too real for an illusion. I back away and turn around to stare at the tall glass window that is painted in hope. That holy rose.. My legs suddenly give out as I fall, looking down as an overwhelming feeling of peace wash over me. Unexpected words flow from my mouth. "You''re safe for now. So don''t worry." Tears from my eyes fall and fall. I wipe them away, smiling just a little. I forgot. Whenever there''s darkness, light is also there, shining the brightest. Many are blind to it. Yet some are given that special chance to realize. Don''t forget. Crybaby (33) "Tetsuya said you were a crybaby too." Adam comments. I sniffle and stand to my feet, "Who''s that? And for starters I am not a crybaby." I retort, rolling my eyes. Adam laughs and begins walking, leaving me to my sniffles. Scared of being left alone I Support the creativity of authors by visiting the original site for this novel and more. follow him. I hold back more tears that seem even more intense now. "You''re still crying" Adam shakes his head, leading me to a door at the end of the hall. Near the stairs. "Go inside." He commands. I hesitate, thinking of the room I was just in and how my destined fate was to be held prisoner. "Is it safe?" Adam merely nods and goes up the stairs. I take a deep breath, opening the door. Sitting at the windowsill of a less bare and more nicer room is another mysterious male. He has short blue bedhead hair and dark green eyes. I stare in awe before I begin to cry again, slowly stepping into the room. Tetsuya (34) "It''s been a while." Tetsuya smiles. He walks over to me, patting my head. "I can barely remember you. But I do know for a fact Unauthorized usage: this narrative is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings. that." I whisper these very words, before stopping myself. Tetsuya.. Tetsuya.. Tetsuya.. A flashback takes over my senses. It''s a scene of my past that I''ve long forgotten until now. This feels much more potent than the short memory viewers I''ve had after waking. Flashback (35) The sun is so hot, coating my entire body in sweat. For a decent shade, I take cover underneath a big tree, It''s summer break and the two of us started hanging out not too long ago. All the girls in school are jealous. Tetsu and I hanging out isn''t such a big deal. Unauthorized use of content: if you find this story on Amazon, report the violation. They wonder how a normal sophomore like me got to hang out with the most popular senior in high school. Now with thinking about it, Tetsuya works at this cafe and that''s how we met. I was really having a hard time with my homework and so he decided to help. Next, I started attending the cafe more and more, becoming slowly interested in Tetsuya. "Boo!" "Aaah!" Tetsuya reveals himself from behind the tree where I was waiting. He had scared the living daylights out of me! My heart is beating so fast before I end up crying. Flashback (36) "I''m sorry." Tetsuya apologizes, holding up a yellow popsicle. I don''t say a word, accepting the cold treat as I begin to lick it. It''s so sour, having a taste of pure sweet lemon. Tetsuya on the other hand isn''t eating a popsicle. He did say that sweets weren''t his thing. The narrative has been taken without permission. Report any sightings. He''s more of a foodie person. "Tetsu," I began. Tetsuya''s cheeks and ears turns red, it seems as if giving him a nickname IS unexpected. "Is it okay if I call you that?" I asked him. "Sure..crybaby." Tetsuya smiles, sitting down. I sat next to him. There''s something I want him to know. "Is something on your mind?" Tetsuya asked, snapping me out of my very thoughts. Flashback (37) I shake my head, enjoying my popsicle, I don''t know if I should tell him yet. "Is there anything on your mind?" I asked him the same question. Tetsuya glances at me, wearing a blank expression. Then he ends up Taken from Royal Road, this narrative should be reported if found on Amazon. looking upset. Not angry, Just sad. "What''s wrong?" "Well," Tetsuya scratched the back of his head, "I''m having a hard time with my emotions." I raised a brow, before replying back. "Emotions are something else. You feel happy the next minute, then sad a little later. What''s troubling you?" "Out of everything in my life, the one thing troubling me is." Interrupting our important conversation is Tetsuya''s phone. It''s ringing. Flashback (38) Tetsuya answers the call right away, his replies seemed cold. Something I never seen until this very moment. "Hey.." He doesn''t look happy. Once the person on the phone gets done talking, Tetsuya wore a vexing expression, "Fine. I will be home Unauthorized use: this story is on Amazon without permission from the author. Report any sightings. in a bit." He ends the call. It didn''t even last long. Tetsuya''s unhappy expression changes to a happy one quickly. "Are you okay? Who was that?" I ask him in deep concern. "My younger brother needs help with one of his math problems. It''s his first time needing my help too." Tetsuya explains. "No way. I really wanted to spend a lot of time with you today." I whined, done with my lemon popsicle. "I feel the same way." Tetsuya sighs and stands up from the ground. I stand as well, being sad. I don''t see why Tetsuya has to go home over some math problem that his younger brother can''t solve. Flashback (39) "Wait here for me." Tetsuya states, he begin to quickly walk away. "Okay!" I yell back, sitting back down underneath the tree. The cool wind gently caresses everything once Tetsu is gone. I embrace the coolness, noticing how the heat and subtle cool air goes hand in hand. Love this story? Find the genuine version on the author''s preferred platform and support their work! Just a random thought. Minutes had pass, The wind blew, and still no sign of Tetsu as the sun sets. I stand up and pout, hating the fact that Tetsu lied. Bling!! I get a notification from my phone. A text message from Tetsu, "Hey Tsuki, can you meet me at home?" I quickly replied with, "Okay." My eyes begin to blur, the flashback turns to black, bringing me back to the present. Find Truth (40) I open my eyes, noticing that I was lying in Tetsuya''s arms for a while. Tetsuya''s smiles kindly. Glad to see I''m awake,"Are you okay?" "I''m fine." I reply, blushing out of nowhere. Tetsuya stands up and I stand up with The genuine version of this novel can be found on another site. Support the author by reading it there. him. "Mmm..are you going to keep secrets from me too?" I question him. Tetsuya shakes his head, "I know about a lot and don''t think it''s wise to reveal everything to you so quickly." I get his words. I will find the truth soon enough, yet as always.. truth is hard to swallow. Sometimes, going off my own understanding or even having no understanding of things myself Neither is the truth. I finally found someone who is willing to tell me everything I need to know. Beladim (41) I sit down on the windowsill of the room, my back is to the window as Tetsuya sits next to me. This feels almost as a dream scene. I can''t put my finger on this emotion. I don''t know why I feel this way? I stare at the door of the room, not having the urge to leave. A question comes to mind and I speak it out loud, "What is this place and why do I have a severe The story has been taken without consent; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident. case of amnesia?" Tetsuya replies back, "This mansion and the outside world is called Beladim. It''s a realm Ronin created for his delusional and egocentric beliefs. And for the case of your amnesia..I''m sorry." Tetsuya ends up breaking down into tears. My eyes water and I stare down at my hands. Tetsuya covers one hand with his face. The other one is all alone. I end up grabbing that other hand, "I don''t think it''s your fault." "You don''t know that." He whispers, quickly wiping away his own tears. "Even if that''s true, I still don''t think you''re responsible." "How naive No wonder why Ronin chose you" "Huh?" Intense (42) "On the day you died, I was there. I was the one who didn''t stop it." Ronin''s body trembles, His face grows pale. White as a sheet. Goosebumps tickle my skin as my palms begin to sweat as I move my hand away from Ronin''s. I don''t remember that. Can you explain to me what happened on the day I died?" I don''t want to believe that I''m already dead. Judging from his reaction, This story has been unlawfully obtained without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon. It just seems more was at play. Wait.. A realization lights up in my brain, close to removing the thick blindfold from my eyes. My flashback from earlier. "On that summer day, When the two of us were hanging out, you had to leave to help your younger brother with a home- work problem." I whisper. Ronin looks a bit calm yet still on edge, "Bingo.that was the day our lives were changed. I died before you did." He died before I did? Yet how? It does make sense, explaining why Tetsu didn''t return back to our spot. "So that text was from Ronin?" "Yes." Memories are slowly flooding back to me. Familiar memories that reopen wounds. I can also tell that Tetsu can remember clear as day what happened. Tetsuya / Memory (43) Upon entering my home, I close the front door. It''s quiet. Parents are out on a fancy dinner date. I remove my shoes, quickly walking up the stairs to Ronin''s room. Getting up the stairs, I notice that Ronin''s bedroom door is normally closed. I haven''t been in his room since I was eleven and Stolen from Royal Road, this story should be reported if encountered on Amazon. now I''m eighteen. Time surely does fly. "Ronin!" I call out, standing at his bed- room door. The room is empty as I step inside, noticing how bare his room is. There''s no more posters of his favorite bands or movies, just bare black and dark walls. What stands out the most is his book shelf which has many books that aren''t manga. Ronin used to read manga all the time, his favorite series was called, ?????? I can''t recall. I don''t think he can either. Tetsuya / Memory (44) I walk over to Ronin''s desk, noticing that there''s no homework laying out for me to examine. The desk''s flat surface is bare, looking as if it hasn''t been used. "Tetsuya." Ronin says, walking into the room. I turn around, being annoyed, "Didn''t you say you needed help with your homework?" Precious time has been wasted. This content has been misappropriated from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere. I don''t want to keep Tsukino waiting for too long. "Sorry, I was in the library on the third floor." Ronin apologizes, placing down a mysterious looking book that didn''t seem to resemble a high school text book. The book is merely red, having the title in gold letters. It says, Cast the Die. I end up being drawn to the book, opening the first page. "What is," Before I can finish my question, Ronin uses a sharp object to pierce through my chest. I stare at my younger brother AS my eyes widen, being flabbergasted. Ronin''s expression is dark as he laughs, it''s a laugh of sheer madness. Tetsuya / Memory (45) "Oh, my stupid older brother!" Ronin snarls, plunging the knife even more deeply into my chest before pulling it out. He looks so madly sick, staring down at the silver looking and thick blade of the pocket knife with my remaining blood on it. Did you know this story is from Royal Road? Read the official version for free and support the author. "My homework is almost complete." Ronin mumbles lowly, licking the knife of my blood clean. I slowly back away, trying to get away yet foreign and sheer pain hits me out of nowhere, causing me to fall to the ground on my very back. I stare up at the ceiling, Ronin comes into view hovering over me like a pesky little fly. Quick sadness, anger, and then confusion hits me before I close my eyes to darkness. Tsukino / Memory (46) After reviewing the text from Tetsu to meet him at his home, I agree to it, darting over there right away. I pass by many other trees, trying to hurry before the sky gets dark. The air has gotten awfully cold despite it being super hot just an hour ago. As I make it to Unauthorized use: this story is on Amazon without permission from the author. Report any sightings. the gates of the mansion, As if on cue they open and I stop running to walk past them and to the white steps. The mansion during the day looks vibrant yet with the sun setting just like this, it almost looks less vibrant and more mysterious, eerie even. At the front door, I ring the doorbell twice, being excited to be near Tetsuya again. Someone opens the door. I greet them right away, "Hey Tetsu-" My words are cut short as a I see Ronin. He wears a charming smile. Tsukino / Memory (47) "Hi, Ronin." I greet him politely as I enter the mansion and remove my shoes. I notice Tetsuya''s shoes as well, looking around to see if I can spot him right away. Normally Tetsuya is always here to greet me when I enter his home. "Were you both able to solve that homework question?" I asks Ronin. If you come across this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it. Ronin analyzes me with his red eyes. Whenever I would come to visit Tetsu on various occasions, Ronin''s eyes looked the way they did now yet the charming smile wasn''t so evident. I just thought Ronin was the quiet and serious type. "We ended up taking a small break." Ronin simply says, walking up the stairs. I follow suit, feeling the cold air along with a chill that runs down my spine. Slight unhappiness festers itself in my gut yet I shake it off, paying it no mind. Tsukino / Memory (48) Once Ronin and I arrive at his room, I quickly enter inside, spotting Tetsu at Ronin''s book shelf motionless. "Tetsuya, I forgot of how much of a nerd you are." I joke, walking over to him. He doesn''t reply. I tilt my head with a raised brow, tapping Tetsuya by the shoulder. He turns around Ahhhhhhh! I scream, noticing how hollow Tetsuya''s eyes have gotten. This tale has been pilfered from Royal Road. If found on Amazon, kindly file a report. His face is pale as a sheet while where his heart used to be, there''s a hole there with his own blood oozing out. "Tetsu" I whisper, looking back at Ronin who grabs me with great force, throwing me on his own bed. We both struggle, "Let me go you psychopath!" I cry, not being so successful at getting loose from Ronin''s grasp. "You''re the last problem I need to solve" Ronin comments, being convinced of his very own words. His charming smile turns into a sick smirk as he.. takes advantage of my body. I no longer struggle, being paralyzed with great fear and shock. I can''t believe this is happening. I bet Tetsu thought the same thing. Tsukino / Memory (49) Speaking of Tetsu, I think his dead corpse is watching. Or maybe it''s just me wishing for Tetsu to save me or for anyone to save me. "Help!" I scream, "Somebody help!" To silence my voice, Ronin uses both of his hands to wrap around my throat, giving it a tight squeeze. Air to my lungs are limited as Ronin has his way with my body by force. I put my hands on Ronin''s face, managing to scratch his right cheek before giving up. My hands fall back to their side, vision from my eyes are If you spot this tale on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation. slowly fading. There''s no oxygen and just crazy Ronin trying to end my life. He''s winning. Like a miracle, Ronin removes his hands from my neck. I begin coughing and gasping for air yet I''m interrupted by Ronin. He uses a blade to slice my throat. Terrible pain that my mind can''t comprehend is what befalls me as cold liquid ooze out uncontrollably. Ronin moves down to my neck and my eyes roll back. Death overtakes my will to live and darkness welcomes me with open arms. Cold and alone. Or so I thought. Tetsu and I stand in the dark like dead mannequins, along with a few others who don''t look familiar. Then. meeting me face to face is a female with long crimson hair and gray eyes. I haven''t seen her since our early years in middle school. Cerise. Oh, She''s dead too. Realization (50) "No way.." I let out a shaky breath. Not knowing if I should cry or laugh. Tetsu and I are dead. The more this realization hits, the worse my psyche begins to break losing the small sanity it kept all this time. "Don''t give in!" Tetsuya warns, grabbing both of my hands. I almost unconsciously scratched at my neck. This story originates from a different website. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there. "T-That weirdo.." I begin to sob, noticing the other thing he did to me in that distant and real memory. "If you give into your death, Ronin wins." Tetsuya reveals. "Didn''t he already win?" I asks bitterly, wishing I had the strength to kill Ronin for what HE DID TO US. THAT BASTARD. WHAT A LUNATIC! Calming my thoughts is a white flashing and gentle light. It blinds my eyes before restoring my sight and mind. Tetsuya is firmly hugging me. I sniffle and hug back. "I''m sorry this happened. If only I wasn''t stupid enough to fall for Ronin''s lie." Tetsu apologizes. I reply back, "It''s okay. Neither of us knew his true intentions before it was too late." Adapt (51) I''ve come to terms with this new reality. I''m no longer oblivious to the truth that has been withheld from me. This outcome feels much more better yet painstakingly sad. I hate this. I hate that this happened to Tetsu and I. "Tetsu.." I burst into more tears, not leaving from our hug. Did you know this story is from Royal Road? Read the official version for free and support the author. I''ve forgotten our warmth. I''ve forgotten so much until now. Tetsu consoles me, rubbing my back with his hand in a gentle manner. "We will have to adapt, yet not get too comfortable." He''s right about that. Yet how do we fight Ronin back? How do we stay undetected? So many questions shoot across my mind. There''s still so much I need to know. Tetsuya pulls away from our hug, grabbing me by my shoulders, he reveals a sad yet happy smile, "We will both be okay. I will protect you for now on." My cheeks end up overheating. I''m a bit doubtful as worry settles in my heart yet I nod in agreement with Tetsuya, being sure of his hopeful words. "Arigato." Night (52) Just as the sun had already set, the sky becomes a crimson red with a full moon cast. An odd scene. A red night sky. Tetsuya shuts the window curtains, also double checking the door I came in from. He locks it from the inside. "At night, Ronin''s powers are much more potent" Reading on Amazon or a pirate site? This novel is from Royal Road. Support the author by reading it there. Tetsu reveals, making me feel uneasy. "If that''s the case, then are we unsafe?" I question, hugging my body. Tetsuya turns away from the door, with the flick of his left hand, he casts a white light of a cross at the door, then it fades away like a flash of lightening. "This should keep Ronin out of my room. That goes for Cerise too." "Cerise.? She''s here too?" Tetsuya nods, "Yes, let''s not talk about her now. Why not tomorrow?" I don''t push it and listen to Tetsu, taking heed to his words. It''s best if we keep a pleasant atmosphere. I will ask Tetsu about her tomorrow. Necessities (53) "Do you have a change of clothes?" I ask. Tetsu is thrown off by my random question. Being a bit flustered, Tetsu opens his drawer to find me something to wear. "My clothes are going to big on you" He says, wondering on what to find. After a few minutes of searching through his drawer, Tetsu ends up finding A case of content theft: this narrative is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation. a hoodie with some black basketball shorts. He hands them to me, before looking away so I can change. I quickly discard of my brown and long sleeved dress, putting on the given clothes. "All done!" I tell Tetsuya who looks at me and laughs, still having rosy cheeks. "You look cute in my clothes." He compliments. Being flustered, I end up pouting, "They smell like you." "Is that bad? Those clothes shouldn''t stink." I laugh, "They smell good. I tricked you." Tetsuya''s very funny. He is self conscious and I find that to be adorable and relatable. Necessities (54) Tetsuya had gave me a mini tour of his room, having a bathroom and also a shower in a different room along with a convenient small fridge and small pantry of snacks. Dude literally has a small kitchen in his room as he decides to use his small gas stove to make us both chicken ramen. I sit on a comfy butt pillow and watch Tetsu cook away, realizing how much of a failed cook I Support creative writers by reading their stories on Royal Road, not stolen versions. used to be. My Mom tried teaching me yet I just lost interest all together back then. Ah, speaking of that. Ma.. and Pa. I miss them. I wonder..? I don''t have any tears to shed now. Or rather I don''t want to cry. My nose is stuffy enough and plus I feel rather calm. Tetsu is adding raw veggies to the chicken broth and also certain spices. The aroma is very pleasing and nonetheless mouthwatering. Tetsuya''s face when he is concentrating seems majestic. Or maybe I''m just seeing things because. because I''m in love with him. Serene (55) Once Tetsu is done cooking, he ends up, serving me a bowl of the chicken ramen with a can of melon soda. I thank him and wait to eat, noticing that Tetsuya turns on a small lamp in the room before turning off the huge light. After this, he sits across from me on a pillow and in union we both eat. "Tasty.." I whisper, slurping with satisfaction. Unlawfully taken from Royal Road, this story should be reported if seen on Amazon. "It''s nothing that special, Tsukino. Or rather maybe it is considering we are both here together." Tetsuya implies, which leaves the both of us red. He has a point. I''m glad we are both here together. I would like for this serene atmosphere to last forever, yet that''s just me being greedy. "The atmosphere is so lighthearted. To add more, I think I may have fallen for you, Tetsu." Tetsuya almost chokes on his noodles, no longer being red in the face. His dark green eyes have a weird glint in them as he stares directly at me. I stare back, sensing a strong tension and mutual emotion. My confession might have sparked. Lust within both of our hearts. A dangerous emotion. Lust (56) Tetsuya speaks, "I''ve fallen for you too. Yet I can''t get that image from out of my head." I don''t dare ask him which image he''s referring to, knowing right away what he means. He saw what Ronin did to me despite dying. Or rather Ronin kept Tetsu alive just to see my final moments. Defiled in such a way, is disgusting. If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation. Now I''ve lost my appetite. Tetsuya doesn''t eat anymore either, his expression is a bit grim, "Someone else''s lust was our demise." That''s sad yet true. There''s no denying it. Ronin is a mystery to me yet for him to have killed us proves that he''s vile. Yet for now that shouldn''t matter, "Tetsu, should we call it a night?" I try to change the subject, feeling sleepy. Staying quiet, Tetsu merely nod as we both clean up. Tetsu now looks calm and so am I. Yet this feeling of lust is strong and it reeks of sexual desire. Unwanted. Too strong. Go away! Rest (57) With the lights off, Tetsu and I are already in bed, having our backs merely touching. The feeling of lust has died down a little, and I close my eyes. Sleepiness is slowly welcoming me, wanting for me to This content has been misappropriated from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere. rest. My mind is racing and I try to ignore it, My death keeps on replaying, those dreadful flashbacks. I shudder and this causes Tetsu to move. Within seconds, he hugs my small frame, causing the flashbacks to fade. I smile and drift into sleep, enjoying this simple warmth. Desire (58) I awake to the paranoia of being watched. To my surprise, I gasps, noticing Adam who is smirking. He wears a lustful smirk as he hovers over me, pinning both of my arms to the bed. "Is this what you want?" He asks The genuine version of this novel can be found on another site. Support the author by reading it there. in a tempting voice, his image is slowly distorting, revealing Tetsuya who is wearing a look of deep desire on his face. "Just say yes. You know you want this too." Adasuya tempts. I wish I was dreaming yet obviously it''s not. How is Adam doing this? What is he? Adam''s image fades out of view, revealing Tetsu who wears a lustful expression. He''s undressing me with his eyes. He''s not himself. Refuse (59) "Snap out of it, Tetsu! We shouldn''t do this. You know that!" I cry, feeling as if the two of us was to do it right here and now, Adam would win. How did he even get inside this room to begin with? Adam''s image returns, replacing Tetsuya, "Sheesh, talk about cock-blocking. You are supposed to give in. Seems as if my powers If you encounter this tale on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it. aren''t intense." Clearly annoyed, Adam smirks, "Maybe Ronin will have his way with you again." "Was that a threat?" I glare, being a little nervous. I don''t want that to happen again. "It''s either him or your beloved Tetsuya." Adam states, it seems as if he''s not backing down. I shake my head, bursting into tears, "TETSUYA SNAP OUT OF IT!" Adam''s image disappears, changing back to Tetsu. Tetsu snaps out of his lustful trance, now longer pinning me down to the bed. He looks confused and flushed. If I would have gave in, something awful could have happened. This awful is unknown yet it doesn''t leave my gut. Embodiment (60) "I''m sorry, Tsukino. I was fully aware yet I almost gave into temptation" Tetsuya apologizes right away, looking shameful. "It''s okay.good thing I snapped you out of it. Adam was here earlier." I reply, sighing. My heart is beating fast. It hurts. "No one was supposed If you spot this narrative on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation. to get in here" Tetsu becomes once again confused. Then just like that, we both stare at each other in realization. With a mere glance, I read Tetsuya''s mind. Adam''s the embodiment of lust, being one of the spirits that keep this dimension afloat. "Ronin knew he couldn''t enter this room so he tried using Adam to trigger us." Tetsuya explains, being annoyed. He ends up laying next to me, becoming a bit teary- eyed. The guilt of him giving in right away shows on his face as I glance at him. To reassure him, I end up giving him a sweet kiss. It''s not one of lust. It''s with pure passion. Real (61) Tetsu doesn''t kiss back, being in shock. I break away from the kiss, "I purely fell in love with you for you and not for the opposite." I reveal, winking. These emotions for Tetsu are more real than what lust actually is. Lust isn''t real love. Lust is quite the opposite. To only be fixated and obsessed with someone''s body. Stolen content warning: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences. That isn''t real love and it won''t ever be. Love is greater in comparison. "You really mean that?" Tetsu asks, smiling the purest smile I''ve ever seen before. I merely nod, blushing and trying my best to not blush too much. Tetsu wants to speak to me yet he doesn''t, he probably doesn''t know what to say. He sits up in bed, turning on the lamp for light. "When I first saw you at the cafe back then, I didn''t really pay you no mind.." Tetsuya''s expression looks to be as if he''s reminiscing. Back at that cafe.. Ah! I can slightly remember. Cafe Dream / Tetsuya (62) "Order at table four!" Calls out manager Emi from behind the the bar. As I walk over to Emi, she wears a stern expression, having gray short hair and purple eyes. I take the tray away from her hands, smiling rather kindly and she returns the smile back. Business is relatively slow today, yet here at Cafe Dream we always get customers. Speaking of customers, the person at table four has ordered chocolate pancakes with scramble The genuine version of this novel can be found on another site. Support the author by reading it there. eggs and bacon. And their drink choice was plain milk. While working here, I''ve come to realize that whatever we order is a reflection of who we are. A cliche saying is, "That we are what we eat." This is very true while viewing this saying more deeply. We are what we consume, that goes for not only food but for information we soak up like a sponge daily. Everything we view with our eyes and the things we allow to influence us might save or cast us into ruin. "Here is your order." I simply say to the customer who looks distraught. She''s nicely dressed in her school uniform, having black pigtails with a right side bang and focused red eyes. She''s staring down at her sheet of homework problems. From where I stand, I can see math problems. Cafe Dream / Tetsuya (63) The girl looks up, "Thank you for my order." She says with a kind smile. "Do you need anything else?" I ask, wanting to be polite. I wouldn''t mind helping her out with homework. The girl thinks, placing her index finger on her chin until she realizes what If you encounter this tale on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it. she needs help with, "Are you free to help me with my homework?" "I was hoping you would say that." "Do you have a name, nice cafe guy?" The girl teases me with this question and now for some reason I am embarrassed. "It''s Tetsuya Azriel at your service. And you?" "I am Tsukino Kojima." "It''s nice to meet you, Tsukino." "Likewise, Tetsuya." Cafe Dream / Tetsuya (64) From that day forward, Tsukino always came to visit Cafe Dream more frequently. At first it was for homework but over time, she came to see me and that''s how we became close friends. Seeing her always made my day. The way she laughs, The tale has been illicitly lifted; should you spot it on Amazon, report the violation. speaks, and thinks has set my heart ablaze. I didn''t expect for it to happen. I didn''t expect myself to find someone this beautiful. On the inside and the outside. I want to know Tsukino for who she truly is. The good sides of her and the bad sides that she tries to hide. I hope to see her in my life more. I wonder what she thinks of me. Feel (65) Back to the present as Tetsu gets done reminiscing, I think of my emotions. How do I feel about this? About how him and I are dead. We are in some sort of tragic dimension only for Ronin''s sick game. We are puppets to his amusement, or probably even The story has been illicitly taken; should you find it on Amazon, report the infringement. special toys in his treasure chest. His charming smile comes to mind until it distorts into a smile of madness. For some reason, I can feel my lips forming.. THAT SAME SMILE. Tsukino! Tetsu shouts in a panic. He suddenly pulls me into his warm embrace, bringing back to me my sanity. My whole body becomes light as I hear Tetsu speak in a strange dialect. You can''t give in, Tsukino. Tetsu whispers. I know. I whisper back. I''m trying not to but it''s so hard. Strength (66) Tetsu looks me deep in the eyes, holding me by the shoulders. His green eyes glow with a beautiful hue, Be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid and do not panic before them. For the LORD your God will personally go ahead of you. He will neither fail you nor abandon you. Huh? I take in Tetsu''s Unauthorized use: this story is on Amazon without permission from the author. Report any sightings. words, processing them. The spirit of forgetfulness and it''s boundary shatters within my mind about God. My relationship with Him was still very new. Tetsu on the other hand has a greater relationship and I can tell. This calm and this peace is a sign. We are both now relying on God and his very strength. Not on our own strength. We humans are fragile and unstable in all our ways. Double minded. Our appetite for bad things are GREATER than our appetite for the good. Night Flux (67) As the calm settles over us like the warm blankets we snuggle with, the night continues. Not ceasing yet. Tetsu and I are both quiet. We don''t know what to talk about now. My eyes are fixed on the room ceiling and my mind is blank. I shut my eyes for a little bit, sensing sleep wanting to take This content has been misappropriated from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere. over. I open my eyes suddenly, not wanting to fall asleep. Someone is near Tetsu whispers, turning off the lamp light. He gets out of bed and goes by the door to check it out. He puts his ear on the door. I sit up in bed, being a little nervous. I would rather not see any enemies right now. Especially Ronin. I breathe in and out silently, trying to contain my emotions. Don''t give in to despair. Don''t give in to despair. Don''t give in to despair. Tetsuya! I suddenly blurt out. This new emotion of fear overwhelms my senses. Night Flux (68) He''s no longer with us. The person appearing as Tetsu turns around to stare at me. They transform into Cerise. Hi dear cousin. She greets, wearing a menacing grin. She has beautiful long red hair and harsh gray eyes. The story has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation. I tremble, W-What is it? Why are you doing this!? Cerise laughs, I didn''t do anything yet. She stalks over to me, Isn''t our reunion heart warming? With no mercy, she yanks me out of bed, having unnatural human strength. I wince in pain, This is not a heart warming reunion! As Cerise pulls me out the room, waiting for us is Ronin. He wears a dark expression and doesn''t say a word. As he leads us somewhere, the hallway seems way longer than usual. Night Flux (69) What is happening!? Where are we going?? I question with worry. Cerise''s grip tightens on my arm, she suddenly slams me to the wall, knocking the wind out of me, You''re very annoying! She cries. Just shut up! I begin to cry, not even having the energy to This tale has been unlawfully lifted without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon. defend myself. Ronin stops walking, glancing back at us both. He walks over to me and I cower in fear. Get up. He demands. I use the wall for support as I stand. I hate you! I yell in anger, staring at Ronin with deep hatred. I hate you too! Ronin bitterly expresses, wearing a charming but sick smile. Yet.I did enjoy what I did to you before coming here. With no hesitation, I start vomiting. Eeeeek! Cerise panics, being grossed out. Night Flux (70) Ronin rolls his eyes with disgust. He suddenly grabs me by my hair, pulling me somewhere. The pain hurts so much. Cerise follows us and laughs. She''s enjoying my suffering. It really does seem like we were never cousins. As I''m taken to Support creative writers by reading their stories on Royal Road, not stolen versions. a room, my eyes widened in horror. As Ronin releases my hair, I take in my surroundings. This room belongs to him. The familiar bare and dark walls. along with his book shelf of many books. A terrible stench reaches my nose and I try not to vomit again. Ronin and Cerise disappear as I''m left alone in this terrible room. I get a terrible headache and hold back my tears. More memories? Tsukino / Lost Memory (71) I stand before the door of the Azriel mansion, once again feeling nervous as usual. It''s not my first time being here but having dinner is definitely a first. Tetsuya invited me for dinner and I couldn''t refuse the offer so here I am. I am wearing my finest pink dress and black high pumps. With my index Support creative writers by reading their stories on Royal Road, not stolen versions. finger, I press the doorbell. The doorbell chimes twice. As I wait patiently, I look down at my shoes. I hope to not make an bad impression to Tetsuya''s family. Opening the mansion''s door is a older woman with long gray hair and dark green eyes. We make eye contact and I put on my best smile, Hello there. My name is Tsukino. A friend of Tetsuya. The woman wears a cute and mischievous grin, Oh hello Tsuki. Tetsu, my dear son has told me all about you. Please enter. She insists. The nickname makes my cheeks heat up as I enter the mansion. Tetsuya''s mother shows me to the dining room. Tsukino / Lost Memory (72) Upon entering the dinning room, there''s orange luminescent light from the ceiling, setting the mood for a great feast. The decor and aesthetic gives Versailles vibes, making me feel as if I''m in an entirely different dimension. At the table are five This book''s true home is on another platform. Check it out there for the real experience. other people. Tsukino, I''m glad you came. Tetsuya greets me, standing up from the table. He pulls out a chair next to where he is sitting and I join him, smiling shyly. I can feel many eyes on me. In particular, I make direct eye contact with Ronin. Hello, Miss Kojima. Hello there. I greet back. Tetsuya and Ronin are both handsomely dressed for this occasion. Their father is quiet and observant. He has neck length blue hair and red eyes, not really being talkative. Tsukino / Lost Memory (73) Hi there! Are you Tetsuya''s girlfriend? A girl with a short blonde hair and brown eyes ask in pure curiosity. I turn beet red, not knowing how to reply. Her friend next to her with hot pink long hair and black eyes snickers. We are just friends The tale has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident. for now. Tetsuya calmly says. My heart beats in anticipation from Tetsuya''s words. Just friends for now? Is that hinting at something? I''m jealous. Ronin says in a joking manner, smiling. Tetsuya shoots Ronin a small glare, Aren''t you seeing someone yourself? Ronin replies right away, Sort of. He makes eye contact with the blonde haired girl and she winks at him in a playful manner. Who are the two girls? I ask Tetsuya in a whisper. Tetsuya replies, Nina is the blonde and the other one is Ami. His voice is also a whisper. Tsukino / Lost Memory (74) As I chat with Tetsuya, I notice that Ronin would stare at me more than once as he talks with the other two girls. I pretend not to notice, looking at Tetsuya, I''ve gotten better at math thanks to you. I grin in If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. Please report it. admiration. I''m glad to hear that. Tetsuya smiles back. We both make direct eye contact for a couple seconds. I suddenly avert my gaze as I feel my cheeks heat up. Tetsuya''s mom enters the dining room, being in high spirits. The table we all sit at is a very long black table. Before us plates, silverware, and glass cups are already decorating the table. One for each person. Tsukino / Lost Memory (75) As the servants begin to serve us, I am lost in my thoughts. Thinking of studying for school exams and such. Also I''m really into fashion design. I always dream about making new designs and being on the front cover of Nicola Magazine. But what if that dream doesn''t happen.? Are you okay, Tsuki? Why This narrative has been purloined without the author''s approval. Report any appearances on Amazon. are you pouting? Tetsuya asks. Taken off guard, I end up blushing, I''m fine. Just thinking.. About? Care to elaborate? Tetsuya grins, being so handsome. Well. Before I can elaborate more to Tetsuya about my dream of becoming a fashion designer, I stare in awe from the food being put on my plate. Cooked Salmon with stream beans and mashed loaded potatoes. For drinking there''s either water or red wine. Tsukino / Lost Memory (76) As everyone eat their food, I eat as well. Everything taste so delicious. My favorite is salmon. It has a distinct flavor that I can''t help but love. I once again make eye contact with Ronin who was already staring at me. For some reason, I start to feel a bit uneasy but pay it no mind. I go back to eating, staring down at my Support the author by searching for the original publication of this novel. plate. So, Ronin! Why were you with that Cerise girl? Nina asks, wearing a vexing expression. Ami laughs as if Nina said something funny. Cerise. Cerise. Cerise. I haven''t seen her since forever. My dear cousin. Her and I are acquaintances.. Ronin replies with no emotion. Hanging with her will only tarnish your reputation. She''s a slut! Ami chimes in, teasingly. Nina laughs in agreement. Ronin tries to hold back a smirk. I frown, suddenly speaking up,The disrespect is crazy. Cerise is my cousin so please don''t talk crap about her! Both Nina and Ami gasps. I glare at both of them with an intense gaze. Tsukino / Lost Memory (77) Tetsuya clears his throat, not knowing what to say in such a situation. Ronin apologizes, We are sorry, Miss Kojima. Whatever I roll my eyes, still glaring. Now the food is awful because of gossip. I groan in deep annoyance. Nina and Ami both begin to whisper among themselves. Ronin calmly sips his glass of red wine, eyeing me. This narrative has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. If you see it on Amazon, please report it. I ignore him entirely and look at Tetsuya who is blushing slightly, I never saw this side of you before. Huh? What do you mean by that? . Before the memory could play out as normal, I become aware of my current reality. The one of death and nightmares. Everything before my eyes change. Tetsuya''s parents disappear without a trace from their chairs. The air grows cold.. I stare at Tetsuya and see his dead appearance. Along with both Nina and Ami. They''re victims too? That feels so eerily right considering that these two girls were mean to Cerise but so was Ronin. Awake (78) I awake from sleep and gasps for air, sitting up in bed. I suddenly smell the aroma of breakfast. Tetsuya is quiet as he stares at me with worry. He''s making breakfast on the little gas oven. I had a nightmare. I whisper as my body The story has been taken without consent; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident. trembles and I feel like crying but I hold back my tears. Tetsuya walks over gives me a gentle hug. I hug back, glad to be in his embrace. I feel safe. Not put in harm''s way. You were sleeping for a while so I didn''t wake you. Tetsu says. I gaze at the window and notice that it''s daylight. I''m so glad. The night was so long. I frown and sniffle. Indeed. Should we eat breakfast? He asks. I nod in agreement, What did you make? Simple (79) Steamed rice with scrambled eggs and grilled fish. Tetsu explains. I smile and get out of bed, sitting across from Tetsu as he prepares the two bowls. I watch him having a lot on my mind. Simple things are yet complexed and Stolen content warning: this tale belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences elsewhere. Complexed things are yet simple. What does any of that mean? After Tetsu is done we both begin to eat our meal. I wish for peace in the midst of this war. My Tetsu.. I whisper. Tetsu turns red and raises a brow, What''s up? I''m thinking about the nightmare from last night and also the memory I gained from it. Tell me about it. I tell Tetsu about these things with no hesitation. ?????? / Nina (80) I wonder why I no longer feel. I wonder why I will no longer see daybreak. I wonder why and already know the answers I seek. Ami and I are both here in the darkness. Trapped in a room made of stone. This tale has been pilfered from Royal Road. If found on Amazon, kindly file a report. Cerise said it was a dungeon. A dungeon for cursed souls. Right now, I am terribly thirsty. The metal cell door opens, revealing a smirking Cassandra. Stand up and come with me! She demands. She''s the embodiment of control. When I first came here, I thought she was a normal maid. yet she''s more than that. I stand up, almost falling back to the ground. I look around for Ami, seeing that she''s crawled up in a little ball so far away from me. ?????? / Nina (81) Cassandra leads me to a dark and damp room not too far from my cell. Someone is also here waiting for me. I can''t see them but I know that they''re here. Enjoy your stay. Cassandra merely says before shutting the door behind me. In the darkness, I shuffle to stay near the wall and stay as quiet as possible. Stolen from its original source, this story is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings. The other person speaks suddenly, So you''ve returned to have fun? This is going to be sublime! They enthuse, having my same voice. I want to refuse, I don''t want to be tormented again WITH THE SAME MEMORIES. The light within this dark and damp room flickers on. Standing in the middle of this room is a vintage and tall body frame mirror. I walk towards it and see my reflection which morphs into the other me. The one who died a while back. She wears a wicked grin. ?????? / Nina (82) You. To the me I''m looking at. I wish things would have ended for us on different terms. I didn''t want to die. I thought he loved me. I thought he cared for me. I thought he wanted the best for me but it was all some sick lie. You. To the one who is staring If you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it. at me. I''m glad things ended the way they did. I wanted to die. I know he loves me. I know he cares for me. I know that he wants the best for me and it isn''t some sick lie. No I can''t stand this. The way my mind is thinking. The person in the mirror pulls me in and everything flashes to black. Once I gain consciousness, I open my eyes to a day I always revist. A day I love and DESPISE. IT''S WHAT I DESERVED. For being such a spoiled loser. ?????? / Nina (83) A few weeks passed since Cerise died. Ami and I both were happy. We were glad she ended her miserable life. She was always such a nuisance. Having a natural beauty that makeup didn''t Support the author by searching for the original publication of this novel. give. A ethereal beauty that I couldn''t stand. Cerise also didn''t have to worry about the pressure of an arranged marriage. After school, Ronin invited Ami and I to his mini party at his mansion. He wanted both of us to arrive at six o''clock sharp. We had to wear our finest clothing and we couldn''t bring our phones. I was very stupid to agree to such a thing. ?????? / Nina (84) Ami and I arrive to the mansion, both super excited. I ring the doorbell, wanting to see Ronin all dressed up in his best attire. He''s so handsome! Nina. There''s something I want to tell you. Ami suddenly says, wearing a strange and flushed look as she stares at me. Hmm? I asks her, Stolen content alert: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences. not knowing what she''s talking about. Before she can even speak again, the front door to the mansion cracks open by itself. I quickly enter inside first, seeing how dark it is and the only source of light is the many candles. Ronin, where are you??! I call out as Ami follows behind me. We follow the trail of the candles, coming across the living room. Small refreshments are already left out on the coffee table. As we both sit down, Ami quickly helps herself, eating a few chocolate chip cookies. Despite being a bit hesitant, I help myself to some hot tea. The flavor is something I can''t comprehend. It''s gross. ?????? / Nina (85) Hello there ladies. Greets a familiar voice walking down the stairs. Ronin is shirtless, only wearing black slacks along with a Japanese Oni mask. Did you both enjoy the refreshments? He asks, his voice sounds condescending. Ami begins to vomit up black liquid. I scream, Love this story? Find the genuine version on the author''s preferred platform and support their work! suddenly standing to my feet. Ronin kicks me in the stomach and I fly back to where the unlit fireplace is. Ronin merely laughs, dragging Ami away by her hair to the dining room. After a couple of seconds, as I hear Ami''s screams and Ronin''s eerie laugh, I try to make a run for it through the front door but it won''t budge despite being open a few minutes ago. Heyyou. A voice whispers in my ear. Chills run down my spine as I stare back in horror. Cerise wears a murderous grin, being all bloody and mangled. How is she still alive?!?! ?????? / Nina (86) I quickly run away from Cerise, hoping to save Ami. As I enter the dining room, It''s too late. Ami is hanging by a noose on the dimly lit chandelier. Her eyes have been severed and her lips have been removed. Love what you''re reading? Discover and support the author on the platform they originally published on. That b*tch won''t be spreading lies anymore about my darling Cerise. Ronin tone is excited, he takes off his mask slightly as he reveals his pitch black eyes and evil grin. C-Cerise? I stammer, eyes swelling with tears. My very close friend, Ami is dead. No longer alive. Yes Cerise. My beautiful dream girl. Ronin answers me. I thought he loved me. Not her. ?????? / Nina (87) I saved my favorite person for last Ronin whispers, his smile fades. He points at me with a cleaver knife. I quickly run out the dining hall, screaming to the top of my lungs. I run up the stairs, going into a random The story has been illicitly taken; should you find it on Amazon, report the infringement. room to hide. There''s candles everywhere. It''s so hazardous. I look around the room I''m in, noticing two people in bed together. I pick up a candle with my shaky hands, for light to get a closer look. Tsukino and Tetsuya are both next to each other dead. Their bodies reek of death. I look away and begin to vomit. I don''t want to die! I don''t want to end up like them! BUT deep within me, I know that it is too late for me. ?????? / Nina (88) Oh Nina~ Where are you!? Calls out Ronin from nearby. I look around the room, deciding to hide under the bed. This sick bastard. I should have known he was mental. Him and Cerise were lovers. Stolen from its rightful author, this tale is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings. But how? He did such a good job hiding it all from me. I feel so stupid. I begin to cry again, crawling out from underneath the bed. Opening the door is Ronin. There you are. He says, the Oni mask covers his entire face. You bastard! I yell in deep anger. I hate you! I hate you! I hate you! I hate- Before I can finish my words, Ronin uses the cleaver, stabbing me in the neck. The feelings are mutual Nina. ?????? / Nina (89) Ronin removes the cleaver from my neck, I scream in pain, falling to the ground. I try to speak but it hurts too much. Ronin waste no time to attack more. With more stabbing in my neck, I faintly see someone watching. The narrative has been illicitly obtained; should you discover it on Amazon, report the violation. Cerise stands there, smiling. Thank you, Ronin! You''re welcome. Ronin smiles too as my vision going to black. As I feel my soul leave my body, I can''t help but think of how much I want revenge. Yet then again, how should I want that when I too have caused pain. I guess you can say, I got what was coming to me. Hehehehehe. HEHEHEHEHEHEHE. That''s so funny! Torture? / Nina END (90) I awake from that horrible memory, to only awake to a horrible reality. I''m laying on some table with my arms and legs bound. Hovering over me is the same Ronin from earlier. Unauthorized usage: this narrative is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings. The one who was wearing the Oni mask. He''s one of Ronin''s phantoms. I let out a shaky sigh and close my eyes. I begin to sob, missing my life of normalcy so much. I feel sharp pain in my chest, it seems as if Ronin''s phantom is splitting me open down the middle in my stomach. His demonic laugh is like music to my ears. This pain is so unbearable. I hate this but have no choice but to give into madness. Problem? / Tsukino (90) After explaining to Tetsu about my nightmare and memory, I speak my mind. Bad things have happened to us. I tell Ronin with teary eyes. We can''t stay here. I add. This place is evil and we must leave before its too late. I know this Tsukino but the problem is much more complicated. How so? I asks Tetsu, looking You could be reading stolen content. Head to the original site for the genuine story. out the window as I sit at the windowsill. The sky is a clear and infinite blue. It''s so beautiful and calming to look at. I look away from the window and at Tetsu who decides to sit next to me. He grabs my hand, giving me a stern look, Ronin created this world to lock us in. Everyone here is keeping this place afloat. But especially Adam who is lust and Cassandra who is control. Ronin explains, The only way out is to escape through the tall glass window. The one that displays a holy red rose. I saw that before coming here to your room. I smile, being a bit scared. Holy Rose? (91) Just the thought of crashing through that sounds scary. I speak my mind, trying to vision that happening. It won''t be. We will be free. Tetsu smiles at me a warm smile. If we stay here any longer and feed into despair, we will die a second time and become reprobates. You mean wicked just like Ronin and Cerise? I asks Tetsu who nods in agreement. Did you know this story is from Royal Road? Read the official version for free and support the author. I think back to the glass painting of the Holy Rose. I really do want to leave this God forsaken place. I know Tetsu desires the same thing but where will we end up after? I rest my head on Tetsus shoulder, feeling so cold. Tetsu feels warmer than me. I wonder why. More images of the Holy Rose flashes through my mind. Allow me to save you both. A voice whispers in my ear. A voice that surely wasn''t Testu''s. Who was that? Sudden peace washes over me and I close my eyes. My mind is quiet and my heart feels at ease. Nap / Tetsuya (92) I carry Tsukino''s body to the bed as she sleeps. Her sleeping face looks peaceful. I''m glad. It''s so terrible that we are dead but I can''t give up on my God now. It''s thanks to him that I''m still sane. A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation. It''s thanks to him that I still have hope. It''s thanks to him that I''m here in this moment. A small nap will do me some good. I sit by at the windowsill, suddenly dozing off. As I fall asleep, I begin to dream. I open my eyes, being in a dark place but a bright and golden light forms from within my chest. It sprouts and shows itself as a rose. Hope / Tetsuya (93) Despite darkness surrounding myself and Tsukino, we still have the upper hand. For the light of Christ is with us. While Ronin was too busy getting consumed by the darkness, God chose me from the beginning to bear Find this and other great novels on the author''s preferred platform. Support original creators! his light. I will no longer rely on my own strength to fight but I know that with Christ all things are possible. I won''t give up or give into despair. For the scriptures do say, They who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint. Viators / Tetsuya (???) Tsukino and I are just passing through in this realm of madness. It''s not our permanent stay. Beladim is nothing more than a prison. You could be reading stolen content. Head to the original site for the genuine story. A prison for darkness. A prison for the wicked. Ronin has made his very own prison and has no clue that he will never escape. I won''t give into the darkness and claim this eternal ruin my home. There''s a better place where my God sits at the right hand of the Father. Where there''s light and no darkness can extinguish it. Annoyance / Ronin (94) Tsk..seems like my dear brother isn''t giving up. I grimace, gritting my teeth with pure anger. Tetsuya was supposed to forget about his God while being here. He wasn''t supposed to remember. Are you okay, Ronin? Cassandra asks, I stop reading one of my special This story has been taken without authorization. Report any sightings. books, giving her a sharp glare. Do I look alright to you demon!? I''m getting ticked off! I yell at her. Cassandra smirks, Oh is that so? Throwing a fit with me won''t solve anything. I have to find a way to keep Tetsuya and Tsukino here. Or better yet, I must find a way to separate the two again. They can''t leave. I need them here. Plan? / Ronin (95) I calm down from anger, not wanting this world to crumble before my eyes. Cassandra reads my mind, It will be fine if Tetsuya and Tsukino escape. You still have other bound humans here. I know that, but. The tale has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident. Before I can say anything, Cassandra finishes my sentence. I''m a sadist. Heh. Indeed I am. I grin from ear to ear, wanting to spice things up. Tetsuya and Tsukino should become my personal slaves. I recall the memories of ending them both, suddenly having a sinister plan. You have an idea? Cassandra asks. Yes, I do. It''s going to be pretty fun. Ascension / Cerise (96) I''ve been keeping a secret from Ronin. Appearing as weak, hiding in the shadows. But honestly, I''m tired of pretending. I''m tired of roaming these halls, playing these shadowy games. Now it''s my turn to make a glamorous appearance. This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road. If you spot it on Amazon, please report it. Tsukino doesn''t have to be a meat suit for me to take over after all. Outside the door of the library, where Ronin is, I snap my fingers. Instead of being a dark shadow, my true form begins to take shape. I''m no longer transparent. I''m dead but WELL alive in this dimension. I enter the library, walking with confidence. Ronin and I make sudden eye contact. He''s confused. Cassandra on the other hand laughs in deep amusement. Into / Cerise (97) My darling.. Ronin turns red in the face, How did you do this? It''s funny that you would ask such a thing. Let''s just call it forbidden magic. I wink seductively. Ronin hugs me tightly. I hug back, loving This story originates from Royal Road. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there. our embrace. Cassandra has gone off somewhere without saying a word to me. Ronin pulls away, Tetsuya and Tsukino wants to escape from here.. My eyes grows wide, They shouldn''t be allowed to. I sternly say. Of course nothing drastic would happen if they were to leave, but then again it would be more lonely here without them. I''m into anything Ronin likes. We are both alike. Like two spoiled pees in a rotten pod. Madness / Cerise (98) I have a plan on keeping the two here. Ronin mentions, leading me out of the library by the hand. Oh really? How will my handsome stalker do such a thing? I inquire, being a curious cat. He speaks to me in a strange dialect This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere. that I can only understand. I listen to him with glee, glad to have him by my side. As he explains to me the plan, my lips curl into a pure smile. His lips curl into a pure smile as well. Beneath these false facades lurks.. Bloodshed, deceit, and authority. We walk to the door where Tsukino was kept. We pass that by, coming to a dead end. The two are here. Ronin points at the solid wall. It looks like a solid dead-end. Broken / Cerise (99) Ronin and I together with our index finger touch on the solid wall forming a transparent black pentagram on the wall. The solid wall disappears, revealing more to explore. Very impressive. I say in awe, suddenly scoffing, Tetsuya could have done better. That This narrative has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. If you see it on Amazon, please report it. was too easy. Ronin is quiet, suddenly walking down the hall. His aura gives me the chills and I can''t help but become scared. I''m scared for Tetsuya and Tsukino. Or rather, I''m excited to see their D~E~M~I~S~E. ITS THEIR D - dramatical E - excruciating M - miserable I - inaugural S - sick E - ending Soon, the two will be broken like Ronin and I. Giving into darkness. Change / Cerise (100) As Ronin and I explore the new area of the mansion that Tetsuya created, We see the tall glass window that is painted in hope. That holy rose.. We also see a lonely door near some stairs leading up to Adam''s Love this story? Find the genuine version on the author''s preferred platform and support their work! room. I can sense my two favorite people inside. Ronin glares up at the holy rose, using his powers to isolate it, placing a invisible barrier around it. This should weaken Tetsuya and his light. I close my eyes, chanting in a strange dialect. With this, I end up appearing to be Tsukino. Ronin begins to change the layout of the mansion, along with Tetsuya''s layout too. Fall / Tsukino (101) I open my eyes in sheer horror, feeling Tetsu''s room shake violently. Our only safe haven is now getting destroyed. Many things fall to the ground and shatter as if being delicate antiques of glass artifacts. Tetsu wakes up as he was sitting on the window sill. I scream to the top of my You could be reading stolen content. Head to Royal Road for the genuine story. lungs as the the ground below us begins to crack into pieces, revealing a dark void. Tetsu jumps onto the bed face first, wearing such a panicked and confused expression. I grab Tetsu''s hand tightly as the two of us fall below, leaving our safe haven. We fall deeper and deeper into the abyss. Tetsu doesn''t let go of my hand and I don''t let go of his. As I lose consciousness, a vision of stern red eyes come into view. It''s Ronin''s fault all of this is happening. Requiem Song (102) Within the darkness, Ronin''s voice chimes, Let me show you the past you will never have. In front of my eyes, I see the end result of the many lives lost. The Azriel mansion has been abandoned for a couple of weeks now. I am a missing person and so is Tetsu. Nina and Ami are If you encounter this narrative on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it. also missing persons and so is some famous punk rock star guy. I can only assume that is Adam. As I see our flyers, within this vision, Quick images flash. We were all murdered by Ronin. Within his room. The first person was Adam. But from these scenes, I am confused. Adam looked willing to die. Seeing such proactive images makes me wish I didn''t have eyes. Ronin placed Adam''s dead body underneath his bedroom floor. But I don''t think Adam was ever human to begin with. Requiem Song (103) A couple of months later, After my cousin has passed, Tetsu was next. Then it was me. What Ronin did is UNFORGIVABLE. I hate him so much! Despite being in this darkness, my body feels the sheer pain from that day and it hurts. Ronin''s voice echoes, Give into the darkness. This text was taken from Royal Road. Help the author by reading the original version there. SHUT UP! I cry, wishing for this to end. Ronin as well, put our bodies underneath his floor. The last two who were harmed by Ronin''s hands were Nina and Ami. I''ve noticed that the Ronin who was pursuing them was not normal. It''s as if I''m looking at a monster. Then he ended himself, drinking a bad concoction that caused his insides to melt. Slicing his very own throat. This is insanity. Like a match, the vision Ronin shows me goes out. And so does all of my emotions. Normal? / Tetsuya (???) I open my eyes, seeing that my room has turned back to normal. Everything has been restored. I glance at Tsukino who smiles in relief, suddenly hugging me. We are okay now. She sighs, pulling If you spot this tale on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation. away. I nod my head, getting off the bed. Tsukino stands up, suddenly going over to the windowsill as she stares outside. I love this place. She smiles. You do? I ask her, observing Tsukino. Yes. Tsukino whispers, looking at me with a wicked smile. This place is lovely. Desolate and dark. You''re insane, Cerise. This place is your prison. Prison / Tetsuya (???) My prison? Cerise ask, turning back into her normal form. She no longer looks like the girl I''ve always loved. Beldiam is a dimension If you find this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the infringement. where you will never leave. You and Ronin are bound to this place. I explain to her, You two are evil and won''t win. You''ve both already lost this fight. Cerise looks annoyed, I will still try to win. You are nothing! You are dead. Cerise glares at me, eyes becoming glossy as she tries not to cry. Change? / Tetsuya (???) You''re right about everything. And I hate it! Cerise sobs, covering her face with her hands. Tsukino stood up for you one time. Did you know that? I recall the time I invited Tsukino over Unauthorized content usage: if you discover this narrative on Amazon, report the violation. for dinner. Ronin''s two friends talked about Cerise in such a degrading way and Tsukino didn''t ignore it. I had no clue. Cerise sniffles. She stares at me with her sad gray eyes. She slowly walks over to me and hugs me. I don''t hug back, not knowing if I should. I''m glad you told me this Tetsuya Before I can hug back, I shriek in pain from something sharp in my back. Deceit / Tetsuya (???) You''re foolish Tetsuya! Cerise cackles, not letting me go. I''m no longer human. My past life has no value. The pain in my back grows greater as I scream in agony. Cerise pulls away and kicks me to the ground, showing her hand that has sharp black and long fingernails. My blood is covered on her hand as she grimaced Stolen content alert: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences. before smirking, Why not forget about your past life and fall in love with me? Tsukino is stupid and weak My God, please rescue me I don''t want to be here anymore. I begin to ignore Cerise as she continues to talk. I can no longer hear her voice, eyes going blurry as hot tears run down my cheeks. My son, close your eyes and rest. God speaks, his voice sounds like a gentle whisper. I close my eyes, no longer feeling pain as I lose consciousness. I''m done with this darkness. With God by my side all of this darkness will end. Holy Surrender / Tetsuya (???) In the secret place, my Lord explains to me what must be done. I can no longer rely on my strength but on his alone to escape with Tsukino by my side. This story originates from Royal Road. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there. I''m glad that my God is helping me. He never lets me down. Yashaya is the way, the truth, and the life. I am finally taking refuge in him and now I''m ready to fight back this darkness with his light. It truly is a scary thing to fall into the hands of a living God. And the wicked ones of Beldiam will see. Fabricated / Tsukino (104) Tsukino! Tsukino! I awake from Tetsu calling my name. But he''s nowhere in sight. It''s merely a summer night as I stand up, I was sleeping underneath a familiar If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. Please report it. big tree. I''m supposed to be waiting on someone. But this all feels wrong. Tsukino! Tetsuya runs towards me, only to morph and turn into Ronin. It''s the Ronin who is wearing a Japanese Oni mask. Despite fear overwhelming my senses, I stare, being on guard. What''s the meaning of this? Ronin doesn''t answer me. Instead he lunges at me. I waste no time running away from him. Nightmare (105) I pass by many other dark trees, trying to hurry before Ronin can catch me. The air has gotten awfully cold, and I begin to laugh. I try to cover my mouth You could be reading stolen content. Head to the original site for the genuine story. but the urge to laugh from insanity isn''t helping. I can''t give in. I won''t give in. I end up tripping over a rock in the ground, falling down a grassy hill. Once I make it to the bottom, I come across a mysterious dark cave. Was this always here? In my past life? I''m so unsure. Nightmare (106) I stand to my feet, looking behind me in a frantic manner. I see no one. Tsukino! Someone calls. Standing before me is Tetsu and I scream, W-where did you come from!? I came from the cave. Tetsuya answers, nonchalantly. I try to calm down my beating heart, huffing, I hate this! The tale has been illicitly lifted; should you spot it on Amazon, report the violation. We shouldn''t idle Tetsuya whispers, staring at something behind me. I stare back, seeing the Ronin who was chasing me from earlier. He stands on top of the hill watching us. I take a step back, my body trembles in great fear. Follow me. Tetsuya insists, grabbing my wrist as we both walk into the cave. Inside the cave, it''s dark but the only sources of light comes from torches hanging on the stone walls to the right and left of us. Strange enough, I have a feeling of seeing this place before. But I don''t think this place was in my past reality. Nightmare (107) Where are we going? I asks Tetsuya, trying my best to keep up with his fast pace. Tetsuya doesn''t reply to me, his grip on my wrist tightens and I wince, OUCH! I try pulling away from him yet to no avail. A case of content theft: this narrative is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation. I never loved you. Tetsuya reveals, his words cut deep. What? I never loved you. He repeats. I become teary-eyed as we stop walking. Him and I both come to a dead end. Or it looks like more of a dark pit. You''re lying. I murmur, recalling the time I felt this way. Heh.maybe Tetsuya replies. He smiles a familiar charming sick smile. I hate seeing it. Nightmare (108) We can''t let the darkness get to us! I yell at him. Tetsuya chuckles, suddenly using his index finger and thumb to bring my face closer to his, We''ve already loss. That''s not true! Tetsuya gives me a rough kiss and I don''t kiss back, pushing him away. My lip begins to Unauthorized usage: this tale is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings. bleed and I frown, I refuse to give in Stubborn. Tetsuya rolls his eyes, suddenly grabbing my wrist once more. With no hesitation, we jump into the dark pit and I scream to the top of my lungs. Tetsuya''s appearance morphs and changes into Ronin. I stare in deep horror, only to see Ronin morph back into Tetsuya. I want to know why Ronin is so cruel. I want to know why. But I know the answer to that. My vision fades to black. Nightmare (109) Over and over again, The same memories replay before me. That fateful day when my world and Tetsu''s became a crimson red. "Were you both able to solve that homework question?" I asks Ronin. Ronin analyzes me with his red eyes. Whenever I would come to visit Tetsu on various Love this story? Find the genuine version on the author''s preferred platform and support their work! occasions, Ronin''s eyes looked the way they did now yet the charming smile wasn''t so evident. I just thought Ronin was the quiet and serious type. "We ended up taking a small break." Ronin simply says, walking up the stairs. I follow suit, feeling the cold air along with a chill that runs down my spine. Slight unhappiness festers itself in my gut yet I shake it off, paying it no mind. I was so stupid back then. I had no clue what was going to happen. Nightmare (110) Once Ronin and I arrive at his room, I quickly enter inside, spotting Tetsu at Ronin''s book shelf motionless. "Tetsuya, I forgot of how much of a nerd you are." I joke, walking over to him. He doesn''t reply. I tilt my head with a raised brow, tapping Tetsuya by the shoulder. He turns around Ahhhhhhh! I scream, noticing how hollow Tetsuya''s eyes have gotten. His face is pale as a sheet while where his heart used to be, there''s a hole there Unauthorized duplication: this narrative has been taken without consent. Report sightings. with his own blood oozing out. "Tetsu" I whisper, looking back at Ronin who grabs me with great force, throwing me on his own bed. We both struggle, "Let me go you psychopath!" I cry, not being so successful at getting loose from Ronin''s grasp. "You''re the last problem I need to solve" Ronin comments, being convinced of his very own words. His charming smile turns into a sick smirk as he.. takes advantage of my body. I no longer struggle, being paralyzed with great fear and shock. I can''t believe this is happening. I bet Tetsu thought the same thing. To relive these moments over and over again is frying my brain. This pain and NUMBNESS IS UNBEARABLE.. HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAH AHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAH! Nightmare (111) I think Tetsu''s dead corpse is watching. Or maybe it''s just me wishing for Tetsu to save me or for anyone to save me. "Help!" I scream, "Somebody help!" To silence my voice, Ronin uses both of his hands to wrap around my throat, giving it a tight squeeze. Air to my lungs are limited as Ronin has his way with my body If you stumble upon this tale on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it. by force. I put my hands on Ronin''s face, managing to scratch his right cheek before giving up. My hands fall back to their side, vision from my eyes are slowly fading. There''s no oxygen and just crazy Ronin trying to end my life. He''s winning. Like a miracle, Ronin removes his hands from my neck. I begin coughing and gasping for air yet I''m interrupted by Ronin. He uses a blade to slice my throat. Terrible pain that my mind can''t comprehend is what befalls me as cold liquid ooze out uncontrollably. Ronin moves down to my neck and my eyes roll back. Death overtakes my will to live and darkness welcomes me with open arms. Madness (112) Cold and alone. Cold and alone. Dead and alone. These bitter memories keep on replaying like a terrible song on repeat. Hahahaaha I''m broken and no one can save me. The darkness is too strong for me to triumph over. I open my eyes after A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation. one more time of viewing the same old memory of Ronin''s vile scheme. Tetsu and I stand in the dark like dead mannequins, along with a few others who are now familiar. Then. meeting me face to face is a female with long crimson hair and gray eyes. I haven''t seen her since our early years in middle school. Cerise. Oh, my sweet evil cousin. Now I have no choice but to become just like you. Feast? (113) I close my eyes and open them, standing in my old room. Glancing around the room, it''s quite bare. There''s white walls, a mere brown cupboard, and then a lonely door that leads to somewhere. Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on Royal Road. I exit the room, realizing that I am still in this cave. Waiting on me is Ronin. I take his hand in mine as he leads me to a familiar dining room. Upon entering the dinning room, there''s orange luminescent light from the ceiling, setting the mood for a great feast. I sit at the table and so does Ronin. We should have guests soon. He informs me. I merely nod, feeling nothing. Feast? (114) After a couple of minutes of long silence, entering the room is Ami, Nina, and Tetsu. The three of them look as if they''ve given into darkness. As the three sit down, Ami and Nina wear wicked smirks, Unauthorized duplication: this tale has been taken without consent. Report sightings. wearing nice rich attire. Tetsu isn''t smiling and he makes eye contact with me. I quickly avert my gaze, feeling a bit odd. I sense a small flicker of light in him. Hope perhaps? Cerise enters the dinning room, going over to Ronin as she greets him with a hug and a kiss. Cassandra and Adam exit from the kitchen with mystery dishes. I wonder what''s for dinner. Massage (115) Finally, things are the way it should be. Ronin says, watching as Cassandra pour him a glass of red wine. Yes. I agree. And all of this for me! Cerise exclaims in a sweet and happy manner. She sits next to Stolen content warning: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences. Ronin. Ami and Nina talk among themselves. Adam merely watches, staring at me with a smug-like grin. He whispers something in my ear and I smirk, suddenly standing up from my chair. I decide to give Ronin a shoulder massage. Everyone gasps except for Tetsu. Before Cerise can step in, Ronin stops her, Let Tsukino, my personal maid be. Tsk. Cerise rolls her eyes. Abuse (116) Cerise stands up, slapping me right in the face hard, You can''t have Ronin! She yells, being filled with rage and jealousy. I laugh bitterly, I thought sharing was caring. Cerise screams and starts to fight me. I fight back, mimicking her same attacks. This book is hosted on another platform. Read the official version and support the author''s work. We pull hair, punch, and push. Ronin watches on in satisfaction. I literally have no will over my body. Cassandra snaps her fingers and I stop attacking. Cerise doesn''t stop and I cry in pain. Everyone in the room LAUGH. EVEN I. The pain hurts SO MUCH. I want it to stop. My body begins to ache all over. Somehow Cerise got a fork and uses it to stab me multiple times in the throat. I cough up blood and lose consciousness. Regeneration (117) I open my eyes, no longer feeling pain as I stand up from the ground. Cerise has calmed down, now looking sweet and innocent. I sit back down in the chair I was in before. Dread washes over me from a sudden realization. I really am I puppet for Ronin''s and Cerise''s The narrative has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident. sick amusement. It''s scary. I stare at Tetsu who has Cassandra whispering in his ear. Tetsu stands up from his chair with a dark expression. He walks over to Ronin. Ronin stares at Tetsu with deep hatred. Something is wrong. Adam snickers, The food is getting cold. More torture can happen later. He coos. Ronin and Tetsu are not listening. Chains (118) Before Ronin could cause any harm to Tetsu, the atmosphere shifts. Bind! Tetsu shouts with authority in his voice. His appearance changes to normal yet he''s glowing in a golden light. He was never consumed by the darkness. Ami and Nina screech in pain as their bodies fade away. Cassandra, Adam, If you come across this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it. Ronin, and Cerise are bound in glowing golden chains. I on the other hand begin to vomit, and a dark shadow escapes from my mouth. No longer consumed by darkness, my eyes widened in shock. Tsukino! Come here. Tetsu demands softly. I run over to his side, smiling. How can this be?! Ronin exclaims in anger and annoyance. He tries to get out of the chains but he can''t. He winces in pain from how tight the chains are restraining him. Cerise frowns, eyes turning black as she too tries to break free. Fake (119) Everyone has had their fun here! Tsukino and I are leaving for good! Tetsuya announces, wearing a look of countenance. The layout of Beldiam goes back to it''s normal state. You both will regret this! Ronin snaps, being powerless This tale has been pilfered from Royal Road. If found on Amazon, kindly file a report. against Tetsu. He yelps in pain from the golden chains burning his skin. I stare at all the culprits in the room, locking eyes with Cerise. She wears a sad expression. Don''t leave me dear cousin! She begins to cry. Before I can take a step closer, Tetsu puts a hand on my shoulder. No, Tsukino. I stare back at Cerise who wears a wicked grin. If only Tetsu didn''t believe in the Messiah! She exclaims, suddenly screeching in pain from the chains getting tighter around her body. Leaving (120) Let''s go. Tetsu says, grabbing my hand as we both exit the dining room. I say nothing to Tetsu who suddenly carries me in his arms. He leads me down a familiar path as we pass by the room I was kept in as prisoner for a while. If you find this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the infringement. I''m tired of this place. I whisper, feeling so weak. I am too, that''s why we are finally leaving. Tetsu''s steps begin to quicken as we make a run towards the glass stained painting of the Holy Rose. As we crash through it, we see the outside world. The sky is a normal blue with white clouds and we fall. Peace. That''s all I feel as Tetsu and fall. We fall deeper and deeper through the sky. White Lights (121) Tsukino. This is goodbye. Tetsu says as we continue to fall. His appearance begins to change into a white light. Yes. I agree, feeling my body become light as a feather. I close my eyes as I feel my body change. The story has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation. Tetsu and I are fading into the beautiful blue sky as white lights. I hold onto him tightly and he does the same. I''m so glad we are free and it''s all thanks to our Lord! This peace that surpasses all understanding is beautiful. I wonder what happens next. I.am so happy Tetsu and I are free at last. THE END Nostalgic / Tetsuya (Memory) 1 (EC) As I sit and wait near the mall''s entrance, I feel a tinge of worry, hating the fact that I''m all nervous. My palms are sweaty. Tsukino said she wanted to hang out and she''s already five minutes The narrative has been taken without permission. Report any sightings. late. Today''s afternoon is a calming one. It''s a cloudy and sunny day. A day that I won''t take for granted. I stand from the bench, noticing a family of birds together near the water fountain. I stare in awe, realizing how birds are free to go wherever they want. If only life was that simple when it came to being human. Nexus / Tetsuya (Memory) 2 (EC) The only thing that makes us free as humans is the truth. Truth which removes the thick blindfolds of deceit from our eyes. God is what tether Stolen from its rightful place, this narrative is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings. our beings together. He made us in his image, breathing life into us to do his will or our own. We are all connected. We all play a certain role. Light or darkness..? We are all connected. We all play a certain role. The question is which side are you on? There''s no in-between. Only two choices. Company to Keep / Tetsuya (Memory) 1 (EC) Tetsuya!!! Exclaims Tsukino who comes running towards me. Her black hair cascades down to her back in crinkles as she wears a cute pink hair pin to move back her bangs. Her attire consist of a blue puffy sleeved and This narrative has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. If you see it on Amazon, please report it. delicate tee with a brown skirt that falls to her knees. For shoes she is wearing ebony flats and cute white and frilly socks. Tsukino looks beautiful and her fashion sense is very girly. I stand up from the bench, smiling. It took you long enough. I''m so so sorry, Tetsu. I was styling my hair Tsukino wears an embarrassed smile, her cheeks have a small red hue on them. It''s fine, I''m glad that you''re here. I reply back. Company to Keep / Tetsuya (Memory) 2 (EC) Um is there anything you want to do first? Tsukino asks, going straight inside the mall. I follow behind her, looking around at the many stores and people. There''s a shop I think you''d like. This tale has been pilfered from Royal Road. If found on Amazon, kindly file a report. Eh? Really? Tsukino ask in surprise. Yes, I grab her hand and take her to the shop I am thinking
We walk up stairs, leading us to the second floor of the mall with more shops. We enter the second shop on our left that is called, Momo Desu. I glance at Tsukino who eyes grow wide. She stares at me with a shy smile, This place is cute I know. This place reminds me of you. Company to Keep / Tetsuya (Memory) 3 (EC) I follow Tsukino as she picks and chooses what catches her eye. From sweet scented perfume to Japanese sweet snacks along with a cute yellow hoodie and hair accessories. At the cash register as we check out, I notice Tsukino eyeing the cute and rare teddy This narrative has been purloined without the author''s approval. Report any appearances on Amazon. bear in front of her. Hello Mister Azriel. The woman employee greets, she''s the one checking us out. Hello Ms.Dolly, how are you? I''m fine, just glad to see you and your adorable girlfriend today. I laugh, I see. How much is that teddy bear behind you? It''s 10059.86 yen. The woman says while turning around to look at the bear. But with a discount, the cost will be 5748.49 yen. Let me get that too then. The woman nods, taking the rare bear off the shelf. She rings it up and puts all the items for Tsukino in a couple of bags. Mutual Duality / Tetsuya (Memory) 1 (EC) Thank you, Tetsu. Tsukino says with a sweet smile. I hold her bags, glad to see her happiness, You''re welcome. How''s your day going so far? It''s been good, hanging out with you always makes my day ten times better. This story is posted elsewhere by the author. Help them out by reading the authentic version. I blush in embarrassment, I feel the same way. Is there another shop you want to check out? Tsukino shakes her head, No way. You might buy me more things and I don''t want that to happen. Let''s go to a shop you like instead. Alright. I answer, really wanting to spoil Tsukino but then again, I don''t want to smother her with gifts. Just her being by my side is enough. Mutual Duality / Tetsuya (Memory) 2 (EC) On our way to my favorite shop for clothes, I can''t help but notice someone. Some girl with long red hair and gray eyes pass us by. Something about her seems off. Her face looked so void of emotion. It''s as if she''s a empty person. Who is she? Do you like Reading on Amazon or a pirate site? This novel is from Royal Road. Support the author by reading it there. clouds? Tsukino asks, her question is a bit random but not in a bad way. Clouds are very beautiful but the blue sky without clouds are better. Tsukino frowns, The clouds decorate the sky. Sometimes they appear and sometimes they don''t. Clouds even provide shade for us inhabitants below from the hot sun. I can see what she''s saying. It''s a blessing to have a sky even if it does or does not have any clouds. The sky is still the sky that God created to give us light in the morning, noon, afternoon, even- ing, and night. Mutual Duality / Tetsuya (Memory) 3 (EC) As Tsukino and I arrive to my favorite shop called, Eternal Stance, I go over to the kimono section. Tsukino follows, looking through the rack of different kimonos. She''s constantly staring at me and also at the kimonos until she pulls Unauthorized usage: this narrative is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings. one out. I think this one will look nice on you. She shows me the blue, black and white kimono, having cool and intricate designs. I smile and take the kimono from Tsukino''s hand. I will try it on. The two of us go over to the dressing room. She sits in one of the waiting chairs while I put on the kimono. After a few seconds, I exit the dressing room. Gleeful Fun / Tsukino (Memory) 1 (EC) You look like an old time samurai. I enthuse, standing up to observe Tetsu more closely. I blush and step away, grinning. Thanks Tsukino. Tetsu stare at himself in the mirror, suddenly going back inside the the dressing room. The narrative has been illicitly obtained; should you discover it on Amazon, report the violation. I wait outside for him, noticing some students from school hanging around. I can''t believe Tetsu and I are hanging out together. This feels like some dream but then again it''s not a dream. I pinch myself and wince softly. Definitely not a dream. I say. What are you talking about? Tetsu ask. He''s dressed in his normal clothes. He wears a curious expression. I laugh in embarrassment, It''s nothing,Tetsu. Gleeful Fun / Tsukino (Memory) 2 (EC) As Tetsu buys the kimono and we leave from the store, I think of many things we can do. Should we take photos at one of those photo booths, Tetsuya? I ask out loud. I wanted to keep that idea to myself. Tetsuya looks surprised, I''m not really a photo Unlawfully taken from Royal Road, this story should be reported if seen on Amazon. person but because it''s you we should. Yay! I exclaim, dragging him over to one of the photo booths. The inside is a bit small but the two of us end up sitting next to each other, shoulders touching. Tetsuya inserts some money within the photo booth bill slot. I feel a little nervous, staying quiet. Tetsuya appears to be as calm as ever, making me wonder if he''s done this before with another girl. He''s handsome so I wouldn''t be surprised if my thoughts were true. Gleeful Fun / Tsukino (Memory) 3 (EC) Um. I say, suddenly covering my mouth. Tetsuya looks at me with curiosity, You okay? Yes, just a little nervous That''s something a cute girl would say. He teases. The story has been illicitly taken; should you find it on Amazon, report the infringement. My cheeks heat up and I pout, You''re making things worse! As Tetsuya laughs, a white light flashes, taking our first photo. Oh no! I didn''t smile in the first one. For the second photo, I smile and throw up a peace sign. I can''t wait to see how the photos will look once we''re done. Tetsu grins. Same here. I smile shyly. I just hope the photos don''t make me look weird. Gleeful Fun / Tsukino (Memory) ? (EC) As we exit the photo booth, Tetsu buys three of them and give me one. We took five photos together. They came out nice. You look so adorable Tsuki, especially in the first one. I don''t know. B-but you look nice in all of them. I reply, not wanting to say how I Reading on this site? This novel is published elsewhere. Support the author by seeking out the original. truly feel. Is nice the only thing? Tetsuya asks with a sly smirk. No its not but I want to keep my other words to myself. I smile and playfully hit Tetsuya in the chest. For some reason, Tetsu tries to hug me and I run away, not wanting any of his hugs. As we run throughout the mall, I enter into a random shop. This shop isn''t my taste at all. Bleak and dark is to describe the aesthetic. More like gothic. Gleeful Fun / Tsukino (Memory) ? (EC) I didn''t know you shopped here, Tsukino. Ronin walks over to me, wearing a nonchalant expression on his face. He has a basket in his hand and appears to be shopping himself. I could say the same for you. I tell Ronin, trying not to stare at him too hard. He makes me feel strange. There''s something about This story has been unlawfully obtained without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon. him that''s intimidating. I''m a little embarrassed to see him right now, especially since Tetsu and I are hanging out. Tsukino! Tetsuya exclaims, suddenly hugging me out out of nowhere. Ronin looks surprised to see Tetsuya, wearing a strange look. Oh, Ronin what are you doing here? Tetsuya asks, letting me go. I''m shopping. As I glance around the store, I see that it sells a bunch of dark clothing, spell books, gothic accessories and other things. You two look to be having fun. Ronin says, still wearing a strange look. I get a hint of jealousy. We are! I laugh happily, looking at Tetsuya who smiles in agreement. Gleeful Fun / Tsukino (Memory) ? (EC) Are you with someone? I ask him. Ronin doesn''t even answer, walking away from us. How rude of him. Tetsu and I stare in the direction Ronin is walking and it looks as if he''s with someone. A female with long crimson hair and who is wearing a black dress We can''t see her face. Wasn''t Ronin dating the Stolen from its original source, this story is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings. girl with blonde hair back at the dinner we had? I ask Tetsu. Tetsuya shrugs, I don''t think so. Ronin talks to multiple girls so. Are you like that too? Tetsuya frowns suddenly, Not at all. What makes you think that? I mean you''re handsome Tetsuya! Many girls dream to be in my shoes right now. Wait a second. Did I just speak my mind!? Oh no!? I see. Tetsuya suddenly blushes, not knowing what to say. I do the same. Then he grabs my hand and we leave the goth shop. I hope he isn''t mad at me. He''s holding my hand so I guess not. Darkness / Tsukino (Memory) (EC) My brother is something else isn''t he? Tetsuya ask while shaking his head in annoyance. He is. Very rude and strange. I whisper. Tetsuya walks over to a bench as we sit down, it''s in a more quiet place of the mall. We had a argument This story has been stolen from Royal Road. If you read it on Amazon, please report it a few weeks ago. It was about salvation in God. Oh really? What did Ronin say about it? He doesn''t believe in God. He only believes that he''s a god. That sounds terrifying. To believe oneself to be a god. Who are we to say such things? We are merely humans and didn''t think to bring ourselves into this world. So that''s the reason why he was in the goth store? I ask in curiosity. Tetsuya merely nods, looking sad. He''s into darkness, it''s witchcraft. Salvation / Tetsuya (Memory) (EC) Salvation is really a gift bestowed upon those by God. Salvation is believing in Christ who died on the cross. Once you believe in him, you must realize that you are a sinner in Love this novel? Read it on Royal Road to ensure the author gets credit. need of a savior. Christ died on that cross and rose again on the third day. He defeated death and took the keys of death from hades. Christ reconciled us (humanity) back to God the father. Salvation is so simple but we who have God''s breath within us makes it so hard. We would rather live life our own way, being wise in our own eyes. But in the end, it leads to our ruin. Special / Tetsuya (Memory) (EC) Are you okay Tetsuya? Tsukino asks, looking concerned for me. I was thinking and what startles me is a teardrop that hits my hand. I''m okay Tsukino. I tell her, not wanting for her to worry. Do you know about salvation? Enjoying this book? Seek out the original to ensure the author gets credit. Tsukino nods at my question, Yes, I recall you talking about it at a school assembly once. Oh I forgot that I did that. It was a while ago. Maybe a few months back. It was a beautiful speech. I felt this sudden urge in me from it. Tsukino continues, smiling rather softly. This moment now is rather special. It''s rare. What is? Salvation and those who truly know about it. It''s not only about knowing about it, but accepting it. Warmth / Tetsuya (Memory) 1 (EC) I don''t think I can contain my emotions. I cover my hand with my face and begin to weep. It''s tears of sorrow and tears of happiness. I feel someone hug me suddenly, knowing Stolen story; please report. that it''s Tsukino who is trying to comfort me. I feel great sorrow for those who truly don''t understand salvation yet I''m happy and glad that God opened my eyes to perceive it. He opened my heart to accept it. But I won''t give up. I must endure until the end to be saved. I must! Even if it''s challenging. For when I am weak, then I am strong. Warmth / Tetsuya (Memory) 2 (EC) After a while, I calm down and Tsukino pulls away. Her eyes are red and glossy too from crying. I smile at her, Should we get going now? Tsukino smiles back, Yes. Should we go to the food court? She asks, sniffling slightly as she opens her purse. Find this and other great novels on the author''s preferred platform. Support original creators! She grabs some kleenex tissues handing me one. I thank her before using it, glad to be hanging out with her today. Then for some reason, her words come to mind: Are you like that too? I mean you''re handsome Tetsuya! Many girls dream to be in my shoes right now. There''s no way I could just treat the other person I''ve fallen in love with as if they''re trash. To be used for a while and then discarded the next. Tsukino is more than that to me. She''s a human being with emotions. Food Court / Tetsuya (Memory) 1 (EC) As I hold Tsukino''s hand, I lead her to the food court where there are various smells of different cuisines. What should we eat today? I ask her, wondering about her decision. We should have some Chinese. Specifically general chicken. Sounds like a good Unauthorized usage: this narrative is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings. choice. Yes it does. In 10 minutes, Tsukino and I have our food, sitting at a nice and comfortable brown booth in the food court area. We both sit next to each other, side by side as our mall bags are placed adjacent to us. I ordered us a meal for two. Tso general chicken, fried rice, with veggie eggrolls. For our drinks, it''s simple green melon juice. Thank you, Tetsu. Tsukino exclaims before she begins to eat.