Author: Yume Neiji

Looking at the angelic looking kid I can’t help but think if it was deliberate. Judging how young she was, it would be impossible for her to go out alone. But since she wore a pair of old clothes she could be an orphan or a beggar… but her hair truly bothers me. I am certain she is a Hallow!

Is she being pursued? It was too odd for a Hallow to pop out in the middle of the road…

We were staring at her when she stirred awake. Blinking at us with her innocent gaze, I can’t help but feel guilty. I doubt a little kid looking this innocent…

Clearing my thought, I inquired for her name gently.

“…”

The kid seemed to freeze for a while then she slowly shook her small head. Brewing tears were also visible in her eyes.

“Ahh… please don’t cry. We will have you checked first and for the mean time you could join us.” Minte voiced out as he seemed to be panicky seeing that the little girl would cry.

The little girl blinked then a small smile appeared in her face. “Thank you big brother!” She also did not forget to blink cutely.

Why do I feel like she was waiting for Minte’s words to come out?

The kid looked at me innocently and showed her sweet smile revealing her white teeth. I was about to ask her further question when the carriage halted. The carriage door then opened and Ron declared that we are now in the clinic.

Since the kid was awake, we just supported her walk down and enter the building. It looked like a residential area but a sign indicating that the doctor is in was posted at the door. Knocking and entering, I found that the ground floor was styled like that of a clinic.

“We would like to have her checked. She seemed to have lost her memories.”

“Oh my! What happened to her?” The middle aged woman came forward and asked concernedly. She then proceeded to check the kid’s vision and pulse.

“Ah- Um, she suddenly popped in front of our carriage…” Minte explained

“Judging from her pulse, she is completely fine. Maybe due to shock she has temporary amnesia. Just to make sure, let her drink this.” The woman rummages for a while and gave us a small vial. “That is use to calm nerves.”

Paying and thanking for the consultation made, we went back to the carriage with the kid in tow.

“Big Sis, what do we do now?” Minte looked at the little girl gripping the vial tightly.

“Let’s head to the bookstore then, you said there is food there too right? I think this little girl is hungry too.” The little kid blushed then nodded shyly. “For the mean time, we could let her tag with us during our shopping.”

Minte and the kid both seemed to be relieved. I can’t help but think that Minte is too kind… Right now, he was even supporting the kid as she gulped the vial’s content.

Why do I really feel that this kid is not so simple? Is it just me over thinking?

Arriving at the bookstore, I was surprised to find a three storey tavern. A huge sign with ‘Gustav’s’ written on it was pinned at the top. This whole building is a bookstore? The owner was sure rich!

“The books are at the second and third floor. The ground floor is an eatery.” Minte explained.

“Let’s go and fill our stomach first.” After ordering Uncle Coachman and Ron to come in once they have parked the carriage, we then entered the building.

The ambiance inside was pretty good as even the diners talks in low voices. There were circular tables decorated simply but the place was neat and clean. Surprisingly, menu’s were available and it was clipped in a small board. After ordering the food, I decided to go up as it was said that the food will be ready in half an hour time.

Thankfully the stairs was not too high, when I reached the second floor, neat rows of shelves where arranged in a semi circle formation while there where long tables at the side, this place looked like a nicely designed library.

After carefully looking at each books section, I finally found books that I liked. Surprisingly there were written romance book and horror books here. Picking up at least 10 books, I moved to the cashier area to pay. Books here was surely expensive as one cost a gold coin. Being a novelist here is not a bad deal!

When I went down, the foods were already served. Ron and Uncle Coachman with the little girl sat to the table adjacent to us. Looking at the colourful dishes, I can’t help but drool. Thankfully the food here was so delicious and the only downsides were the desserts.

With our stomach full, we proceeded to the fruit area first. Fruits here were similarly like on earth and all of them are fresh, no one seemed to be scamming and selling not fresh goods. After the basket was full with fruits, we looked for some kitchen ingredient.

Entering a two-storey tavern famous with it kitchen supplies, I truly felt surprised as every ingredient for making sweets are here! It was just that it was not very famous and even the precious almond , coffee and cocoa seeds where just gathering molds!

Fufu, I did not only manage to have a discount, they even gave me the cocoa and almonds seeds for free!

“Since were done, we could now go home” I voiced out as I climbed on the carriage. Noticing that Minte is not climbing up and the group’s gaze tells me I forgot something, I then noticed the little girl gripping Minte’s hem tightly.

“Let’s buy some clean clothes for her first. We could take her with us and discuss things with Father and Mother then.”

For the mean time, I’ll go along with Minte. The Duke and Duchess would surely be suspicious of this little girl anyway.

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The dinner was in the same way – sumptuous. But knowing that my lie pulled me into a pit, I can’t help but tremble.

The heroine was supposed to be the only one deemed to be an Enlightened after Sun God’s Blessing!

Caramelle would realize that she was gifted with knowledge for engineering right after the ceremony – making it the start of her prestige and daily interaction with the royalties. 

Judging from the Duke’s reaction, he had already sent a letter to the palace.

“Ah— Stress!!!!”

Punching and pulling the pillows, I tried to relieve myself. At times like this, chocolates would really be helpful!

Haist!, Kiaria, Kiaria, let’s just focus for tomorrow instead!

I’ll just worry about the enlightened issue during the Thanksgiving Day. At least I have four days left. During these days, I’ll find that mysterious woman as I indulge myself with sweets!

*******

When I woke up, the sun was already up. My limbs ached as I wrestled with my pillows last night till my strength left me.

Knock! Knock!

Jane came in, and seeing me still in bed, she asked in surprise.

“Young Lady, Young master’s attendant would like to confirm if you will still go shopping.”

Right, I asked Minte to go with me.

“Inform him that we will proceed. We will also just have lunch outside.”

“Ahm, Young Lady, do you really not need help with the bath?” Jane asked in assurance. Opposite of the real Hershey, I don’t want to be seen while bathing. I could do it alone anyway.

“Yes, I’ll be fine. Oh just prepare me some male clothing.” Yawning, I waved at Jane who was staring at me in disbelief when she heard her task.

It should be fine staying in the bathe for at least half an hour. With that in thought, I moved towards the bathroom and soaked in the hot bathe.

It feels so good~

When I went out, I found a red medieval tunic and a black cargo kilt. Jane also prepared a black pants and high boots. In fairness she has some fashion style.

Yesterday, I asked Pepper to go with us during dinner but she seemed to be busy and since I’ll only go with Minte and his attendant, it would be better if I am dressed as a man too. Looking at my own reflection in the mirror, I can’t help but feel pumped up as I looked better in man’s suit.

Moving out, I found a black carriage with the Almonds insignia. Minte was already standing before the carriage wearing a suit similar to mine but in navy shade.

“We could go.” I urged the coachman when we were all seated inside the carriage. “Let’s go to the bookstore first then we will proceed with buying some cooking ingredients.”

“Alright, were you preparing something delicious again?” Minte asked in anticipation.

“Right, the sugar candy you tasted yesterday was only a prelude to sweetness. I’ll be introducing other sweet delicacies soon.”

Arriving at the marketplace, I began to admire the bustling place. As there were separate road for carriage and people, the carriage was able to move forward with ease. This setup was thought carefully and it was implemented properly.

“I think we should grab something light to eat first. Do you know a place like that?” Looking at young kids, walking and eating some sandwich I can’t help but yearn for some.

“Hmmm…  I usually eat at the bookstore so I am not familiar with the other shops.”

“Oh… ” Then let’s ask our guide. Knocking at the small carriage window right next to the coachman, Ron, Minte’s assistant peeped in. “Ron, do you know a place that serves light snacks, sandwiches and the like.”

“We could turn left to the next street Young Lady, there is a famous café there.”

“Alright, we’ll head there first. Then to the bookstore before buying the ingredients.”

With a salute, the small window was once again closed. I clearly felt that the carriage was about to turn left when the carriage suddenly halted. Thankfully I am seated properly or else I’ll be head smack on the carriage floor.

“What happened?” Minte shouted in concern.

Ron opened the small window and voiced out. “Young master, a young child suddenly popped out and she is currently unconscious.”

“Oh? Did we bump into her?” Minte asked worriedly

“I don’t think we really hit her but she maybe too shocked that she passed out…”

“Is there a nearby clinic around here. Let’s head there first then. For the mean time carry the child in.” I voiced out.

When the kid was brought in, I was so surprised to find a small child around four to five years old, she wore an old pair of clothes but what attracted my attention more was her long black hair…

This color… Black hair was unique to Hallows!

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Arriving at Minte’s room, Jane knocked politely and Minte opened the door.

Plastered with a sweet smile, I asked. “Minte, may we come in?”

Though surprised, Minte opened the door widely and I came in calmly. Jane on the other hand was fidgeting more. Ai, this young maid surely think I’ll make something evil again…

When I stepped inside, I’m surprised to find that the room was decorated like an office style. Unlike mine where the luxurious bed was exposed right after entering, the room here was divided into two. There was another door leading to the bedroom while there were three shelves lined up against the wall. Before the big shelves were two-seater sofas facing each other with a glass table in between. There was also a small desk at the corner looking like a president’s desk. The azure colored walls also accented to a refreshing feeling.

Seating comfortably on one of the sofa, I commended his room. “Your room is to my liking. Minte do you have some story books?”

“Ah?” Minte’s look was so funny. His deep set eyes turned rounded and with his slightly chubby face he looked like a confused little rabbit.

*Chuckles*

“I said, do you have some story books here?” Seeing that he was still filled with confusion and disbelief, I stood and look for a book in his shelves instead.

Contrary to my expectation, what I found were titles all about war, politics and history. He was a 12 year old right? His interest where so deep…

Seeing my distressed expression, Minte knocked on the last shelf. The lower rack then rotated revealing differently styled books.

“Were you referring to these? How did you know I hid some?” Minte asked seriously.

Haha, so this kid was just keeping some comic book in secrecy. Wait, I also need a shelf like this!

“I didn’t, I just guessed.” I winked at him while carefully taking some books out.

These were really fantasy books… but it was just like those kids bedtime story books! “Erm, Minte where did you buy this?” Perhaps there would be a book that would interest me there.

“At the market…”

“Hmm, Ok then, let’s go shopping tomorrow…  Accompany me to that bookstore. I also need some things to make some descent sweets.”

“Ok?” Minte seemed to still be in disbelief but there was a trace of happiness in his face.

Knock! Knock!

A young male attendant entered, he was pretty surprised seeing me in the room.

“It’s now time for dinner. The Duke and Duch—Mistress is already at the dining area…” his voice was quivering and he seemed to be so unsure if he did the right thing.

“From now on you can call Mother as Duchess… Forget of addressing her as mistress in front of me. Tell this to the other servants too…” I need to seriously address this.

“Yes, Young Lady!” Jane and the young man voiced in unison.

Patting Minte’s head, I comforted. “Don’t worry. I fully accepted you two. Your mother – I mean Mother is a now the real Duchess anyway.”

Minte gave me a bright smile and we moved towards the dining area in tow.

“Congratulations!”

I was initially surprised with the sudden greeting. Looking at the lined up servants and their merry expressions, I smiled in reply.

But I’m still confused as to why I’m being congratulated.

“Congratulations for being an Enlightened.” The Duke handed me a purple box. Pepper on the other hand did the same but it was in pink shade.

Huh??? Me? Enlightened?

What the hell did I do!!!

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Knock! Knock!

After announcing her presence, the housekeeper then entered the library. Seeing that both her masters were inside, she bowed politely and began to address her concern.

“Duke Salte, Young Lady seemed to be an Enlightened…”

Expression of shock and delight were both visible from the Duke and Duchess faces.

“Explain the things clearly Anie.” Pepper encouraged with soft voice.

“Young Lady went to the kitchen to a while ago to ask for some dessert but when the cook gave her cookies, she suggested making some sweets instead. She explained to the cooks that it would be easy. She then discussed the detail of how it would be done to Cook Bronze. I heard it was only melting the sugar and turn it into a caramelized form… When asked how she knew how to make it, Young lady explained that when she woke up after receiving Sun God’s Blessing, she has this knowledge. I did not get to see the finished product as I rushed here to relay the information.”

Duke Salte excitedly stood and swiftly and moved towards the kitchen. Duchess Pepper and the housekeeper then followed behind.

When they arrived at the kitchen, the servants were cheering for a ‘Sugar Candy’. Everyone has a dessert plate with some cube with varied colors. Some were a little lighter and darker but the eye catching ones were the golden brown color. Noticing their presence, the servants was shocked but quickly saluted and bowed politely.

“I want to taste one of those too.” Duke Salte uttered as he went near Cook Bronze. The assistant cooks hurriedly provided them with a dessert plate. Thankfully, there were at least few cubes left from what the head cook has made.

After tasting the sweetness and freshness at the same time, the Duke was once again delighted. He needs to inform His Majesty about this. His spirit soared and he moved out of the kitchen to write a letter as soon as possible.

Noticing her husband’s excitement, Pepper just shook her head and ordered Cook Bronze to share the recipe with great detail. She was pretty sure the Duke would be back asking for this.

Cook Bronze then swiftly recorded every procedure as Hershey described. Right after he finished writing, the Duke really came back.

Pepper smiled and took the written recipe. “Here dear, don’t forget to attach the recipe.” The duke laughed and walked out of the kitchen hand in hand with Pepper.

*******

Oblivious of the ruckus the imparted recipe has made, I ate the caramelized pears with relish. Though it could only be considered as a sugar candy, nonetheless I finally had something truly sweet. When I reached for one more, I noticed that the dessert plate that was previously filled with caramelized pears now was fully emptied.

Seated against the headboard, I sighed as I felt bored. There were no entertainments here… no television nor cellphones…

Since technology is nowhere, there should at least be some interesting books here… Ringing the small golden bell at the bedside table, the young maid from this morning came in.

“Hi! What was your name again?”

The young maid fidgeted, unsure whether she should really give out her name. I can’t help but tap my forehead. The previous Hershey would only ask for a name as that certain maid would surely be fired.

“Don’t worry, I won’t fire you. I only need your name to address you properly.” I did not forget to show my smile. The young maid seemed to breathe a relief.

“Young Lady, you may call me Jane. What would you like me to do Young Lady?”

“Jane is a nice name. Hmmm, are there any books here? I meant, story books not those from the library…” Hershey was not really fond of reading but she did spend time at the library learning history. I bet there would be no romance books in that place.

“This Young Lady, I am not sure… Most books where in the library and Young Master Minte has his own collection.”

“Oh Minte has one?” Curious as to what books a 12 year old could keep, I asked Jane to guide me to Minte’s room. Seeing a grin from my face, Jane hurried out and guided me towards my younger brother’s room. Perhaps there could be some fantasy comic book.

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With my mind running wild with imagination, I have the sudden urged to wolf down some sweets. Remembering that there were really no sweet things here, I shed invisible tears.

Right, if there was none, I could make one!

Suddenly energized with this thought, I hurried out of the room after securely placing the suspect list under the pile of clean paper sheets.

Clang!

The moment I arrived at the kitchen, the group of maids gathered in circle panicked and clattering noises echoed out instantly. Even the cooks preparing for dinner inside the kitchen counter was startled with the sudden noise that the bowl they held dropped on the floor.

Face palm. I did not really intend to scare them…

Seeing the mess, I can’t help but take one of the brooms on the side and started to sweep. The dazed maids began to panic once again and tried to take the broom from me simultaneously.

“Girls calm down.” I can’t help but voice out.

The entire crowd then stayed put. Looking at them like this, I feel bad for them all of the sudden. I really disregarded them as they were minor characters…

Taking the chance as most of the servants are here, I bowed in apology. “As I have explained during lunch, thanks to Sun God’s Blessing I realized every mistake I made. From now, let’s work together and please continue your loyalty.”

I let them take the broom from me and helped in settling the kitchen counter now littered with ingredients. The chubby middle aged man wearing a white full sleeve tunic seemed to be the chef here. But he seemed to be missing his toque.

 “Uhm, Chef… what do you usually prepare for dessert?”

“Haha, Young Lady you can just call me Cook Bronze, Chef is too grand.” Though refuting, happiness was so obvious on his expression.

“Well then, I’ll address you to be Chef Bronze from now on.” Cook Bronze just laughed at it merrily.

Hmm…Though he was happy, he did not really claim the title. There seems to be some criteria’s set before a cook becomes a chef. This may explain why he does not have a toque…

“Ah yes, Young Lady, what did you come here for?”

 “Ehm, I would like to suggest something else as a dessert for tonight.”

Cook Bronze looked at me surprisingly. “What would that dessert be Young Lady?”

“Oh that, let me check for ingredients first.”

Since the things were tidied up swiftly, few maids approached me with caution. I could still see their nervousness but they seem to be eager to be ordered.

Seeing their eagerness, I then asked for some ingredients. There were variety of fruits but unluckily, there is no vanilla or caramel for an instant dip. Fully anticipating sweets, I just asked some of the maids to peel of the skin of the pears and cut it up into cube shapes. My first thought was to eat some caramelized pears.

To put it in action I asked Cook Bronze to prepare a metal pot for melting the sugar. His assistants then moved to get the things I have said. Quickly explaining the logic of creating caramelized sugar, Cook Bronze was so amazed with the new discovery.

“I didn’t know Young Lady would be talented in the kitchen!”

Haha… Right! I forgot, this place has no concept what so ever on creating sweets…

“I think I had this knowledge when I wake up after the ceremony…”

Gasp!

The maids who were cleaning the pears made a surprised sound. Judging from their shocked and amazed expression, I may have given a wrong answer…

“Congratulations to Young Lady! You were enlightened and gifted with knowledge of the kitchen!”

Ah?

The housekeeper who was quiet at the side then curtsied and hurriedly went out of the kitchen. Paying no heed to the housekeeper’s action, I proceeded to instruct Cook Bronze and his assistants on what has to be done. They then began to gently stir the sugar that was now melting. So far, Cook Bronze has the perfect colored one. When it turned into golden brown color I asked him to transfer it into the bowl. While it’s hot, we dipped and rolled the cubed shaped pears inside the bowl, the white pear was instantly coated with the caramelized sugar. After it was exposed to air, it has now hardened up into beautiful golden brown cube.

Picking one, I quickly put it in my mouth. Ai, the sweetness was just right! Then the freshness of the pear would soon come out after a bite, balancing the sweetness – making you crave for more.

Giving out the thumbs up sign, I urged the others to try the sugar candy we made. They all expressed their approval of the caramelized pear.

“Young Lady, what is this called?”

“We could call it as ‘Sugar Candy’…. We could simply eat the melted sugar itself but having fruit within would be better. By the way, this could be applied to any fruits, except for the sour ones of course.”

With a nod, Cook Bronze was impressed. “Sugar Candy huh, don’t worry Young Lady, I’ll add this for tonight’s dinner.”

Pleased, I gave him an ok sign and filled my own dessert plate with caramelized pears.

With this, I’ll finally start to indulge myself with sweets.

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It’s now siesta time!

After that sumptuous meal, I can’t help but roll on my bed. While facing the ceiling, I tried to analyze where I should start finding some clues.

Who could possibly be having a grudge against me? And the next question would be, why?

Those I killed?

Ai, since I can’t sleep. I stood up and began to rummage the drawers. There should be some pen and paper here somewhere. Alas I found it, but the one available for writing was a blue quill pen!

Trying some strokes for a while, I finally managed to use the quill pen with ease.

I started to write on the paper.

Suspects:

1. Hallows, Reason: Ghirar was the only one I truly named? Mad as they even suffered immeasurable pain but ended up dying?
2. Hershey, Reason: Suspicion why I am now her.
3. Princess Lotte, Reason: Because she was a villainess instead of a heroine?
4. Almond Joy, Reason: Because she also died being the sidekick?
5. That young lady from chapter 1…
6. Pepper Almonds?

Who else died?

Ugh! My head hurts from thinking of other possible suspects. Putting down the quill pen, I moved back to my bed and rolled over while staring at what I’ve written.

In this white paper, clearly number 4, 5 and 6 are less probable. Almond Joy should not be the one as she was the first person I saw after that cold voice disappeared…

But anyway, I should keep them there for now.

I truly have a gut feeling that one of those Hallow women did it, as they were the only ones who have some special power, but how can they force me into a book if they were now dead?

For the second suspect, there were too many things I found no answer. But since I now became Hershey, I can’t truly doubt myself could I?

As for the old Hershey, there is a probability that her soul and consciousness were only hibernating as I took over… and the worst case would be that she truly disappeared completely. I truly hope its option 1.

Alas I’m with the villainous princess again. Royalties have greater mental capacity and greater body constitution but they were also normal humans. How can I check if she was truly the one who brought me here?

Clearly, suspect number 1, 2 and 3 should be fully investigated. Other than the mysterious appearance of Sun God’s artifact and existence of the Blessed and Hallows everything was normal…

Ah! Why did I not think of it, it could be the artifact itself as it was the most powerful thing here!

Excited by the new analysis, I quickly got up and wrote the seventh possible suspect.

7. Sun God…

After staring at it for a while, I can’t help but get tensed.

Why would the Sun God have a grudge on me? I even made him as a god…

Arghhh!!!! Thinking of these things truly drained my brain cells out! With a final verdict, I encircled suspect number 1, 2, 3, and 7. With number 7 having a big question mark…

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Wearing a light blue vintage style gothic dress, I looked at my current self earnestly. Patting my cheeks, I chanted few words. “Kiaria, you are now Hershey Almonds.”

Without finding out any clues on that mysterious woman, I have no option left but to take over Hershey’s position temporarily. Practicing and adjusting my mind to take the current situation could help me think clearly. For now, I am the current Hershey Almonds not Kiaria – this book’s author.

Thankfully, I had this subconscious knowledge of every corner of the place. Maybe it’s because this place is where this body has lived for twenty-two years.

Our physical appearance even has some similarity, almond shaped eyes, pale lips and an oval shaped face. In real life I have black hair and eyes with no freckles while having a Midtone-Asian complexion. The current me has sand blonde hair and light brown eyes. My current complexion was fair and I have a natural shiny straight hair. I also had to admit that the current me has a nice figure, everything seemed to be well proportioned. My freckles were not as thick as Joy so it was not so obvious, not unless one was in close range.

When I went down for lunch, the three people of the Almonds House where already seated. I could tell that all pair of eyes was focused on me. The Duke seated at the center has similar sand blonde hair to mine. He looked a little bit chubby but still pleasing to the eye. I guess the freckles where from Hershey’s mother.

“Hershey, you’re here.” The duke spoke as he noticed my gaze. “If you would really like to join us, please take a seat.” There was a hint of warning in his voice.

Oh right! From the scenario I made, Hershey never joined the table and would only cause commotion whenever she appears during meal time. This was solely because her real mother was not the woman in the dining area.

The original wife – Sugar, left the Duke after Hershey turned seven, saying she has already fulfilled her duty. The duke then remarried and wed his childhood sweetheart – Pepper, giving birth to Minte.

The woman at the Duke’s right side still looked like a young madam. She has brown hair which was styled in a simple high bun. She doesn’t wear any accessory and her dress was light colored matching her temperament well.

Finally, this woman seemed to match what I’ve written!

Pepper is extremely sweet to his son and husband and she only stayed within the house premises. In the passing, she would always try everything for Hershey to like her. She dislikes parties as she would always be a topic of discussion.

Being soft-hearted, every time Hershey made a tantrum and harasses her, she would just cry in the Duke’s arm. Once her son was targeted, she would just take Minte away after asking Hershey to hate only her. She stayed in her belief thinking that Hershey would eventually accept them in the long run.

Nodding slightly, I pressed a small smile – making Pepper all teary.

Sigh, in the book, this woman would even be implicated when Hershey helped the princess run away…

“I am sorry for startling and worrying you D-Father. I am completely fine.” After a short pause, I politely bowed down. “With Sun God’s Blessing, I finally have woken up… M-Mother, I am sorry for my wrong doings too, truly asking for your forgiveness.” I then looked at the teenage boy. “To Minte too, big sis is truly sorry.”

Looking at the surprised expression of everyone present, a small smile appeared in my face. I move towards the duke’s left side to take a seat.

Ufufu, using Sun God’s power should be justifiable for my sudden change.

I suddenly felt hungry looking at the sumptuous feast. Devouring the food in fast speed, the duke laughed merrily while Pepper worriedly advised me to slow down. I only nodded in between of wolfing down the food.

After this, I should compose myself and start to finalize my to-do tasks. First thing should be on how to address this two elder. 

Noticing someone’s gaze on me, I turned my head only to find Minte, who was curiously looking at me with his big eyes, I can’t help but chuckle.

I passed him some sweet pear, I’m now fully satisfied with the meal and craving some sweet. This fruit should be considered as dessert. I am too worried that the cookies would be tasteless so I completely disregarded them.

Looking at the young kid munching down on the pear without a second thought, I truly feel happy. This would also be the first time I’m having a brother.

In real life, I only have two elder sisters. Ai, they were both married so no need to worry about them. My parents should also be fine, they were currently travelling around. Remembering them, I was suddenly hit with a timeline.

I’m supposed to move in my villa and I only have two weeks left. My parents would also be back in two months time… Hopefully, I would be able to find the culprit before two weeks have been over.

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The group watched as Hershey staggered, walked nervously then sudden confidence could be seen in her next movement! Finally, she was able to go near the fountain with steady and calm steps.

The three men looked at each other as if having one common thought. Ghirar then moved forward and got near Hershey.

The moment he was standing beside Hershey, he was surprised to find her looking down the water with complete shock.  He tried to get her attention but Hershey seemed to be in her own world.

Deciding to proceed, he then lifted his right hand as he did a light snap. Ripple then appeared in the water and few water droplets floated up. The glittering water droplets moved towards Hershey and formed into a light blue bubble slowly surrounding her.

The water from the fountain was used primarily to heal those sick and it was secondly used to gauge someone – whether they possesses power. The entire process where a priest sends some water droplets to an individual was referred as Sun God’s blessing.

When Hershey was fully engulfed inside the bubble, Sun God’s Blessing was then successfully casted.

Ghirar moved a little bit further and urged the bubble to move forward.  They then watched as Hershey’s body slowly floated up. If she could remain inside the bubble without it breaking up, the possibility that she was a Hallow was a certainty. Otherwise, she was just a normal human.

The water bubble could only retain its form within a meter radius near the fountain and when it crossed, it will eventually pop. The group watched closely as the bubble moved forward until it flew pass the meter radius.

One… Two… Three…

Pop!

The bubble burst and Hershey’s figure instantly fell down. In swift motion, Ghirar’s double arrived before Hershey hit the ground. He then supported Hershey who was now unconscious.

“She passed out…” Ghirar then handed Hershey over to Aero as he once again pointed at Almond Joy to do the same.

The same procedure was made so that the two women would not be so suspicious of the royalties action. They could just merely say it was a test especially made for Lotte’s safety.

The results were different from Lotte’s expectation. Hershey turned to be normal and she can’t help but doubt if it was really because Hershey had enough of it. Thinking this, she decided to be conscious of her treatment to the two. After all, they were only the real friends she ever had.

*******

When I wake up, I found myself in an unfamiliar room but I can’t help but admire the interior. I wished I could design my own room like this.

The room was decorated in luxury. It was like a princess bedroom one would usually see in fantasy movies! The large chandelier even has some little diamonds hanging from it. The beige coloured wall also gave a medieval ambiance more.

This bed could even be larger than a king sized one and the room was complete with everything. There was a bronze door which should lead to the bathroom as I could even see myself in it, though not so clearly. The white door my far right should be the way out of this room.

Since I was at the castle before… this should be one of the palace’s guest rooms?

Thinking of this, I quickly got up and decided to doll up myself. No need to worry about a thing to change into as there are even pre-arranged dresses at the corner of the room. I was choosing a dress when a soft knock echoed out.

A young maid with short blonde hair then came in. Wearing the black and white servant dress, her pale complexion was completely highlighted. Her mannerism, showed how totally nervous she is.

I don’t think I’m that scary…

She did not even lift her head as she expresses the orders from above. “Young Lady, It’s time to go down. Mistress and Duke where so worried for you yesterday. I already prepared some dresses on your preference…”

Oh… So they sent me home after…

Looking at the young maid who was now trembling, I can’t help but click my tongue. Though Hershey was a loyal dog to the villainous princess, she was also a villainess in her own turf. She would command her own lady maid with cuss, thus she never really have a fix maid. Above all, she was disrespectful to her stepmother and mean towards her younger brother.

“I liked them.” I voiced out since the young maid seemed to be having a heart attack now.

“Please inform the Duke – I mean father that I will be joining them for lunch, we could discuss things then…”

The young maid instantly looked up as if she heard something ridiculous but swiftly lowered her head again. She then left the room after bowing politely.

I moved into the glass panelled window as I think of the things that have happen to me. My very first day in this novel world was surely unimaginable.

But what was the last thing that I saw?

I’m truly troubled! To confirm if it’s only an illusion, I need to be able to go near that fountain once more. Sun God’s Blessing should be the perfect time for that…

Looking at the sun that’s fully up, I can’t help but sigh.

For now, this should be my new home…

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Breathe… Calm down.

With them now in close range, I can’t help but take in my breath as they were surely so striking! This was also a very rare chance for me to be with an absolutely gorgeous person up close!

“Big brother Ghirar!” Lotte merrily welcomed as she linked her arms on the man she greeted sweetly.

Now finally noticing the other guy, I felt frozen all of the sudden. I don’t know what to feel about this eye candy!

Ghirar…

If not for the distinct ink black hair and eyes, I would not be able to know it was the Ghirar I’ve written… Prince Aero was the handsome cold type while the Crown Prince was the approachable hot guy next door. Ghirar on the other hand looked like a cute and handsome man combined! He sports the liveliness of a youth!

I can’t help but stare at him. As a Hallow who was a survivor of an unimaginable pain, he was supposed to have a detached temperament and should usually be in his stealth mode. He would only reveal himself if necessary and only in front of his friends – the Crown Prince and Prince Aero himself.

I can’t believe the characters I’ve written seemed to possess different trait…

But the most important part here was that he was a character I created to ignite Lotte’s inner demon!

From my book, he dislikes appearing in front of Lotte as he felt it was too troublesome. But during Sun God’s Thanksgiving Day, he was swoon over by the heroine. He then guarded the heroine in the shadow until Lotte find out. The princess started her villainous harassment forcing Ghirar out of stealth mode as he tried to save the heroine every time…

Since he is out in the open, will things not go as written?

“Miss, could you accompany me to the fountain?”

I can’t help but point out myself.  Ghirar then nodded his head earnestly. What did he mean by going to the fountain?

My hesitation is at its peak. There is something wrong if I am to be brought before the fountain but I could not point it out!

Noticing my hesitation, he gestured his hand as per saying I should go ahead while silently loosening Lotte’s grasp. Lotte then unlinked her arm from him and pushed me forward.

With the sudden push, I staggered and moved forward with difficulty. I’m trying to remember which part this scenario could arise from.

This novel was a romance type with a little bit fantasy in it. I have added the existence of Hallows just so there could be hidden darkness in the book. The existence of the Ends Cliff too… I noted the cliff as the burial area of the Hallows as the cliff itself contains the aura of the Sun God.

Besides, not to mention others, I only focused on Ghirar’s existence as a surviving hallow. After surviving the great ordeal of containing the artifacts given power, he also became the very first Hallow who was dubbed as a dual wielder Priest.

Hallows are usually short lived as they could not pass Sun God’s trial – process of trying to contain the power within their bodies. They were generally categorized into two, those lucky and unlucky ones.

Lucky are those who overcome God’s trial and were able to live. They would then be gifted with the power of the Blessed making them a dual power wielder – putting them qualified to be a Priest immediately. Unlucky were those who attained some power yet were short-lived as their bodies would soon be consumed by the power coming from God’s artifact and eventually to dust. Those who have black hands even died right after touching the sacred artifact.

Ahhh…. That sunstone! It was the missing thing!

Right, since the artifact is not here, I should be safe and remain as normal human and there would never be a chance I would be dubbed as a Hallow.

Thinking of this, I then walked confidently. When I arrived at the fountain I admired the mysterious fountain in close view.  The water then created some ripple and I can’t help but be stunned!

An image appeared and I could clearly see myself in the waters reflection! I was still in front of my laptop and was busy typing!

What the hell was going on?!

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Snap!

With hands on my cheeks, I’m surprised to find Joy staring at me worriedly while snapping her fingers together. Looking at her expression I could tell she has been trying to get my attention for a while now. Finally wide awake, I noticed that she has changed into a dress with similar style that she wore previously but now in maroon colour.

Relief flashed thru her face when I finally looked at her. “What’s wrong? Did the princess scold you?” Joy concernedly asked.

Cough.

I can’t tell her that I completely forgot about the princess and I’m dreaming about a guy right?

I’m having a dilemma on what to say when Princess Lotte came into view.

Nice, timely saviour!

“You two follow me, we need to pay visit to the temple.”

Eh? Isn’t this a bit too early?

Visiting the temple should be on Sun God’s thanksgiving and it was supposed to be a grand event…

Joy nodded in accent almost immediately. Noticing that the two has no plan to wait for me, I hurriedly followed.

Anyway, there should not be any problem at all as it was only visiting…

We boarded a carriage and when we arrived at the temple, I’m surprised to find that we are not the only ones coming to visit as two other carriage were similarly parked at the side.

Going up on a seven stepped stairs we were faced with a beautifully constructed temple. There were engraved paintings and words about the Sun God. Going in from the arched opening, I realized that this temple was an open area similar to that of a gladiator’s arena.

It was constructed in a crescent moon shape facing the End’s Cliff. The structure was supported by its seven huge golden pillars. The seats were colored alternately with gold and silver, depicting sun’s rays.

The most striking feature would be the circular fountain at the far center, maybe at least 5 steps away from the cliff. The fountain was surrounded with growing vine and its flowers emit faint golden lights. The place looks ethereal yet there seems to be something missing that I really can’t point out…

 Ah! It should be Sun God’s statue. I can’t see one.

Noticing other presence, I looked back only to be filled with disbelief. My heart even beat so excitedly. Three gorgeous men were coming our way! Each has its own style and one of it was the very guy I’ve met previously!

I should be right. He must be the crown prince… But looking at the man standing beside him with a smile plastered on his face, I can’t help but associate him with the character I’ve written.

Crown Prince Lewis should be 26 years old now and at least two years older than Prince Aero while having a four years gap with Princess Lotte. Velvet hair was common to the royal family and I think I describe him as the long haired cousin with outgoing personality. He portrays an approachable hot guy next door image.

Compared to the bluish green eyed man on the right, the smiling one has gray eyes. His shoulder length hair has long textured waves making his jolly aura heighten more. Aside from that, he wore a medieval tuxedo that was usually used by a Prince Charming in the series I watched in the television.

Alternating from the two men, I think I know who is who. The one I have previously met should be Prince Aero.

But wasn’t he the cold and unfeeling man who was only moved by the heroine? Am I just hallucinating that he was laughing at me before? 

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