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Chapter Text

Roses in Disguise

Chapter 1: Prologue

"Amidst the ruins of forgotten dreams, the spider lily blooms, it's striking form a stark reminder of what was lost. It embodies the haunting beauty of memories that linger long after their source has faded. Each blossom is a testament to the fragility of life, a reminder that even the most vibrant colors can emerge from the darkest places."
-Haruto Nishimura

For the village of Shengyu Kingdom, it was a great year. Many children were born, filled with great futures and life. In the west coast of the kingdom, an emperor stood outside the door of the Rear Palace. He paced up and down the steps as he heard multiple apothecaries and doctors tending to his wife that was about to give birth.

He hoped this child was a good one, with a good power too at least. But more, he hoped the child will be healthy and alive. It was June 19 and it was the peak of midnight. He paced even more as time ticked by. His name was Emperor Aranthor. The lady who was currently giving birth is named Suki. Consort Suki. She was one of Emperor Aranthor's favorites out of the 5 consorts he had. He had Lady Nari, Lady Yumi, Lady Mei, and Lady Aiko. And even though each of them pleasured the emperor greatly, Suki was his favorite.

His sister was one of the nurses so he didn't worry as much, she would take great care of their little child. But he still had a great creeping feel of anxiety and dread while pacing around the corridors of the palace. After a while he could hear a little baby's cry.

This was the cry of joy, happiness and the joy of everything. Soon after the nurses bundled the child up, they opened the door and showed the child to Aranthor.

He was quite ecstatic when he held the child. What made him more filled with joy was when he saw the mark of the spider lily. Born on the blooming of a spider lily. So rare and powerful that many are killed because of fear if they become corrupted. But this could not be corrupted nor killed as she was in the protection of the kingdom. The Shengyu Kingdom had the greatest security with multiple S rank warriors. They had the best academy to teach as well, the academy was also set inside the palace. The Shengyu Prestigious Academy. All the prestigious and gifted students studied there.

The emperor caressed his child's face. It was a girl child. He brushed some of the girl's white hair. The girl had a few moles on the side of her cheek just like a strawberry. He checked her neck to see what her birthmark was.

What he saw nearly made him drop the child. On the corner of the little child's neck was the flower of a spider lily.

Her fair skin, with the contrast of her pink cheeks would make anyone call her a beauty of the spider lily.

After they transferred Suki to the Inner Court, he reunited with his lady.

"Suki...suki how do you feel?" He asked, still holding the child.

"I feel fine, Aranthor...thanks. Is that her? Our child?" Suki said weakly still after the effects of the numbness medication.

"Yes...she is, what more is that she bears the mark of the spider lily Suki this is what we have been planning for!" Aranthor said, sharing Suki's joy.

"What should we name her?" Suki asks a genuine question.

What should they name the child? The child born on the blooming of a spider lily. One of the strongest ones out there. Her name would be spread across nations, her name will bring her power. What should it be?

Lady Suki marveled at many ideas to what name her child, but she felt none suited her. After some thought she said, "What about Hana? For the first name"

"It feels a little to basic for her name doesn't it?" Emperor Aranthor said thinking while running his fingers through the child's hair.

"What about....Xiaomao?" Lady Suki asked thinking this was the one.

"Xiaomao is a nice one...very cutesy and quite demure. That is exactly how she should turn out to be. And she looks like a little cat too." Aranthor said continuing
"Her last name should be Jiken, to match with her name. And with her family name it will be Xiaomao Lui Jiken" Suki agreed to the name and thus it was set. This little child of the spider lilies is going to be called Xiaomao Lui Jiken.

After choosing the name, the child was given to her auntie, while the parents could rest. The emperors sister was a low ranked princess of the royalty, her name was Li Shen. Li Shen was a quiet and soft hearted young woman in her 20s. But due to not being a male and not being born first, she wasn't made empress. Because of this Li Shen and Aranthor had this unspoken rivalry.

After Li Shen placed new clean clothes on the child, she placed the child down and started braiding her hair.

Li Shen had a habit of tending to her own aesthetic needs rather than to care for other means, which was also why she wasn't crowned empress, she began to braid her hair and stuck them with floral ornaments. As well she put in little clips that were a bit sharp too, she admired herself through the big glass mirror that stood on her bedroom cabinet.

Then for some reason the little child started to cry. Li Shen walked over to the child to quiet her down but it wasn’t working. She had no idea what the child wanted. It was getting annoying now.

“Shut up. Shut up. Shut up!” Li Shen screamed at the child. Not realizing she had one of the clips still in her hand she tried to pinch the child’s little finger to quiet her down. But instead of pinching her finger, the tip of the child’s finger was cut off.

Noticing this Li Shen and the child fell into an unusual silence. Both of them stared at the cut finger. They both stayed quiet as they stared at the wound. Feeling different things they decided to do different things . The child felt the utmost anxiety with the presence of Li Shen, and Li Shen felt anxiety on how to hide what she did.

So instead of crying the child kept her silence, as she knew if she cried more no one would try to come and satisfy her, nor would Li Shen control her anger.

To solve this problem Li Shen decided to bring the emperor. She walked out the room and told a lady in waiting to call the emperor.

“Emperor Aranthor… I have just noticed that your child does not have the tip of her pinkie” Li Shen said, feigning sadness and cruelty.

“...What? But that’s impossible. The doctors checked everything. They said she was completely healthy.” Emperor Aranthor said, bewildered a bit due to shock. He was not thinking correctly at the moment as he was checking his child to see if she had more injuries.

“I’ll keep her in the meantime…you’ve done a lot for now. Take your rest Li Shen.” Emperor Aranthor said in a tone.

"Okay, thank you Emperor." Li Shen said, scurrying away from there.

The emperor walked out the outer palace with the child, thinking while he walked
What did that bastard do to my child…

He looked over his sleeping child again, he also remembered that the child didn’t cry at all when she was in pain. This worried the emperor as he hoped that his child could feel pain. Not that he wanted her to be hurt, but more as it helps keep her safe.

He walked to the rear palace and came inside, he saw Lady Suki sitting on the couch gazing at frequent people walking around.

"I have news, Lady Suki." He said in a grim tone, sitting next to her after handing her the child. Lady Suki caressed the child, running her fingers through her little hair.

"And what may that be? Emperor?" Lady Suki asked now, looking at the emperor now instead of the window.

"I believe that Princess Li Shen cut our child's finger tip off." He said bluntly, watching Lady Suki's expression.

"She goes this route to sabotage you? What has this child done to her?" Lady Suki said with bits of disgust.

"Everything somehow reminds her of how she doesn't deserve to be an empress. She should have dropped her greed by now. Such childish nonsense is not fit for any royalty. Low or High." the emperor said, sharing his lady's disgust towards his sister.

This truly shows greed has no bounds or limit. Li Shen truly is different. Aranthor thought to himself. He quietly braided Lady Suki's hair, it always felt nice to braid it for her. It was soft and silky. Her hair was quite long with a nice shade of red. It was a deep dark red, which reminded the emperor of the petals of a Hibiscus flower. He marveled at the fact since Lady Suki was born on the bloom of the Hibiscus Flower.

Perhaps we should lull over the fact that different flowers and different birthdays contain different powers and meanings. For example, the people born in the Hibiscus flower blooming period often have the ability or power to have great luck and fame.

Which was one of the reasons Lady Suki was quite famous and rich. As well she was quite the beauty and a model of grace for many. As for one of Lady Suki's abilities, she had the ability to heal others by various ways such as cooking or caring for one. But by all means, each flower had their own ranks too.

There were 4 categories for flower rankings. Healing, Teaching, Strength, and Beauty. As well they had their own substats since it's hard to rank all the flowers by the same thing. This ranking system went back all the way from the start of time, the Flower Nation had ancestors that prayed upon the stars for help to help themselves from the Titans. The stars gave them the powers of the floral nation and therefore now is called the nation of Flowers.

After a few minutes of gazing out the window, Lady Suki broke the silence, "...I think it's best that Princess Li Shen not be near our child don't you think?"

"Yes...but who will take care of our child?" Emperor Aranthor tried to find another way to care for their child.

"My ladies in waiting are always glad to help me. They are quite responsible and helpful, I'm sure they will help." Lady Suki said, giving him a reassuring smile.

"If you say so my lady, that will do. I will give Li Shen a different task to take over." Emperor Aranthor said, twirling his white hair with his fingers.

So while the child was still young, Princess Li Shen was told to do other work to guide her away from the child.

It was all until the child's first birthday. The child's first birthday was a great deal. The whole kingdom was invited to celebrate the first birthday of Xiaomao. The heir to the kingdom.

Chapter Text

Chapter 2.

Everyone was hurrying and running everywhere, trying to make this day even more perfect as it could. There were flower decorations on every wall and altar. It was one of the grandest festivals of them all. Lustrous foods from various countries were on all tables. Sitting arrangements were set on the ground with silk cloths. Everyone was helping out.

Lady Suki was caring for the child. Xiaomao was reading a little picture book. She giggled as she saw a little cute cat. Lady Suki encouraged her to read a lot. After a year not much changed. Xiaomao had grown a lot now, her hair was up to her shoulders now, since Lady Suki didn't want to cut it.

Lady Suki put on a pink floral dress to wear for this special day. The emperor also gave some safe jewelry to the child. A necklace made of amethyst and a gem made of diamond.

As the festival came drawing near, the emperor walked to the corridors of the rear palace. He knocked on the door as he opened the door, "Lady Suki" he said looking at her and the child.

"Hello there emperor," Lady Suki showed her respect by putting her head down and then putting her head back up. She ruffled the child's hair as the emperor sat next to the child.

"It's almost time, get the child up and ready. And get yourself ready too." The emperor said then walked out.

Before he left, he stopped at the door and said in a voice that only Suki could hear. "She's coming to the party. I had to invite her, otherwise it would seem biased."

As for the response, Lady Suki said, "We just have to watch Xiaomao more than. She won't be able to do anything if she's under surveillance."

"Yeah." He said, sighing, and then stifling a yawn. "We got a big day ahead of us." After he said that he stood up and walked away.

All the ladies in waiting for Lady Suki decorated the corridors and the outer palace, the other ladies in waiting assisted them as well. They all worked together, for the rare times. Well they had to. They built little flower beds and flower crowns for everyone. Each had their own crown.
Finally it was time for the festival, all the consorts were sitting in their flower beds, the child was in her little carriage with Lady Suki and flowers were thrown around.

It was quite lovely to say, it was now nightfall and Lady Suki and the emperor were cruising around the palace, they were heading to the gift giving ceremony.

This will be where Xiaomao will be blessed with blissed dreams and good luck. Many people made a line towards Lady Suki and Xiaomao.

"Long live the emperor. Long live the empress!" Everyone around them said.

One by one each person started blessing the girl. It could be from stealth to fighting techniques. Each and every of them gave the child something. After a while, it was finally the turn for the consorts and the princess to bless the girl.

First up was the consort Nari, it was because she was the oldest out of them all and since Consort Suki had already gone.

Consort Suki had blessed the child with great healing abilities. She should naturally be able to make poison and medicine. This was considered a S rank ability. The ability of the Coneflower, also known as the Echinacea, but as well the ability of the Hibiscus

Consort Nari walked to the child and did a little curtsy, she brought her finger and placed it on the child's forehead.
"May this child be blessed with the power of eternal fame. She will be known everywhere." Lady Nari said, bowing and walking to her respective area.

Everyone applauded as she got her blessing from Lady Nari. She had blessed Xiaomao with eternal fame which wasn't much to some people. But she will need it sooner or later for her reign over the kingdoms. Influence is key. The flower blessing Lady Nari had bestowed was of the Phemearanthus
flower. It was quite a nice one, if I do say so myself.

The little girl giggled as she received a few more blessings from the Consorts. She received the gift of Tiger Orchid, which was the power to copy fighting techniques with ease, this blessing was from the Consort Yumi.

After Consort Yumi, Xiaomao received the blessing of the Daffodil. The blessing gave Xiaomao more honesty and morality but as well gave her a great memory. With this she also got a boost to her determination and motivation when starting something. Consort Mei was the one who had blessed Xiaomao with the power of Daffodil.

It was Consort Aiko's turn, she was one of the members of the Rose flower. (She was born on the blooming of a rose) And yet even though roses were quite common and known. She was a consort for Emperor Aranthor, and this was rare since the emperors were usually picky and they chose exotic and capable women.

She gave Xiaomao the blessing of an eternal rose. With this, she would have blessings of intuition. Intuition could be thought of in many ways such as, it could mean she would know that someone is behind her or it could mean she could infer/predict what could happen 10 minutes later. At most though, the highest rank of this power could lead to mind reading.

Xiaomao had received many great blessings, but she wasn't done yet. They had left this one for last. It was finally Li Shen's turn.

She walked towards the child, the emperor and Lady Suki, wary of Li Shen's actions.

Li Shen bowed and placed her hand on the child's hand. Li Shen was a person born on the blooming of the Rhizomes, a quite handy flower for doing errands. She then whispered a few words and then blessed the child.

She had bless the child with the blessing of the Rhizomes. The Art of War and Deception. Now this might seem more of a negative blessing. But this is not considered a curse, as one could say that this blessing is very useful. It all depends on how you use the blessing.

Any blessing could become a curse either way.

Everyone applauded as the ceremony of blessings were over. Now it was time to eat. Everyone there was a certified big back. Just like one itself. Everyone gathered around the food court and devoted themselves to food. It was like they haven't eaten in days. Which might have been true, you know?

While the emperor and Lady Suki were chattering amongst themselves or doing whatever they were doing, one does not have a clue what horrific deeds they were doing. Li Shen began to drink some of the finest nectar that was served. Then she went to throw the container of the glass away.

The emperor was conversing with one of his trusted knights, Maximillius he was from one of those with great ancestors in the kingdom. So high that they were right below the emperor.

"Hey congrats on the girl. You always wanted a princess." Maximillius joked, laughing with the emperor. "Well you've got a son, so that only makes things fair." The emperor said, sharing this laughter.
"You know, I would let your son marry my daughter, he's just a couple of years older isn't he? What was his name again?" The emperor said.

"Ren, that's my boy's name. Really though? Wouldn't a prince of a kingdom be more suitable?" Maximillius said, baffled. This was one of the things that shocked him.

"Nah you're like a king to me so, your son must be like a prince. You'll be my first choice forever Maximillius." The emperor said in a serious tone.

"...huh? Oh..uh really? That's good to know. I'm sure your daughter will be just as great as you Emperor." Maximillius said processing what the emperor said. Why'd he have to say it like that?
Lady Suki looked at the emperor sharply, "His son better have some mannerism and grace for our daughter." She said with a hmph.

"And his daughter better have some respect for other people." the wife of Maximillius said.

"Now ladies calm down. This was all just a little joke the boys made." The emperor calmed the ladies down.

The emperor and the knight shared a sigh. Women were a different breed. They just couldn't understand them.

Just a few minutes later, a huge commotion could be heard.
"What's going on?" The emperor said his guard was up, and ready to send in help. Maximillius looked ready as well to assist whatever was needed by him.

"Fire! Fire! Save us all!" Multiple people screamed as they ran around like children that never saw the sun before.

Multiple people began to escort the consorts away from the fire. The emperor then called the knights to save the victims and extinguish the fire. While that the emperor rushed to where the child could be.

Where is she?

She was right there. I just saw her a few minutes ago.

The emperor frantically searched as he tried to keep his emotions in check.

Oh god. Please...

Where is she?

Hot sweat filled the emperor as he lifted the rubble to see if his child was there. Lady Suki and the other consorts were escorted to safety. Which was a good thing, it wouldn't be good if they saw him like this.

The emperor searched even more, nearly going into the fire until he heard a yell from a familiar voice.

"Brother!" Li Shen called out. She was in a devastating state, she had multiple burns and cuts on her arms and her red spots on her face as well.

"What- what happened to you?" The emperor said multiple emotions flaring inside him at once.

How did the fire even happen..

They don't even have any neighboring kingdoms that want war.

Was it a traitor?

Multiple things were swirling around the crowned man. While this Li Shen took the emperor's hands and looked at him with a teary face.

"I tried to save her. I really tried. But- but it was too late." Li Shen said with tears in her eyes.

What...?

This can't be

He must have drank too much wine.

Yes...that must be the case.

There's no way in hell that this would happen.

The emperor froze, as he heard her words. His hands shaking, "...where is she..?" He managed to ask.

Without any words, Li Shen moved aside to show him the same basket that Xiaomao had put him in before.

The emperor clutched his stomach in pain. No way this happened. No way.

He was watching her and this still happened?
What did he do wrong? Did he even deserve this?

He fell to the ground holding onto the basket that she was in. He held on to her tight, not truly believing what happened.

The charred and burnt child lay lifeless in the emperor's hands.

People made a circle around the emperor for consolation. The consorts were brought out of their rooms for consolation as soon as the fire was out.

Lady Suki was the one crying the most. Her sobbing and tears were quiet. But not disgraced. The other consorts placed a hand on Lady Suki to show they cared as well. The princess was a hope for them.
No one could believe what just happened. It was chaotic.

But it was the emperor's duty to serve in the chaos. He made all the injured get treatment at the hospital. And he made a memorial for those that passed in this fire.

Xiaomao's burial was in front of all 26 dead people of the kingdom. The emperor had great difficulty carrying the small casket.

It poured that day, when the funeral was held. It was as if all the life of all flowers and people were lost. No hopes or dreams were seen. No one went to work that day either.

The emperor stayed in his quarters until he had to come out again. Lady Suki stayed in her room holding Xiaomao's old blanket. The ladies in waiting tried to console the Lady but they were just unable to.

During this commotion, Li Shen had told the emperor that she would not be able to work in the conditions of hers. She had received second degree burns on her arms and face. She couldn't move her arm without pain.

Without thinking or being himself, the emperor let her go. Not knowing what else would happen.

He just didn't want to deal with the pain no more. He felt no reason on to living but no reason to dying. He hated this feeling.
He just knows that whoever. Whoever was the cause of this fire. Of his child's death.

Will absolutely have no mercy.

Chapter Text

Chapter 3
"The truth however itself is ugly, it's always curious and beautiful for those seekers after it."
- Agatha Christie.

Meanwhile Li Shen was going home. Riding on horse she left the palace with her personal belongings. After a while she reached home and opened the door.

"I'm home." Li Shen said taking her shoes off for her slippers. She was then greeted by a man that had white long hair, which he kept in a ponytail.

"Mhm. How are you?" The man said, tending to his plants and his back turned from Li Shen.

"Tending to your plants as usual, that's so like you Nazeeh. But yes I'm fine." Li Shen said putting down two baskets.

Nazeeh nodded as a response and then said, "What have you got there. I'm sure those aren't my herbs I asked you to bring."

"I brought your herbs, don't worry. This... is a gift of sorts you can say." Li Shen said taking the herbs out of the basket and handing them to you.

Then she took put what else was in the basket.

It was Xiaomao.

Sleeping, clueless of all.

"Eh? Isn't that our niece? Why's she here? Did you take her?" Nazeeh said his expression confused with his eyes closed.

Now you can figure that you think that these two have some sort of relationship. The truth, yes and no.

They weren't any normal couple. They had no urges of hormonal outbursts and they didn't care for such trivial matters. Honestly, they couldn't even be called a couple. Not even friends. They only had a mutual trust and bond.

Nazeeh simply stayed with Li Shen to keep her company and vice versa Li Shen stayed with him for the company. They didn't interact that much, only occasionally when Nazeeh ran out of herbs or needed ingredients for medicine.

Nazeeh was a quiet man, who kept to himself. He was the village's apothecary. He was one of the few that didn't go straight to being a eunuch or a servant. He had studied in the kings palace and received much knowledge about medicine and poison. For a while he was also a apothecary of the palace but that's another story.

You could refer to it as a transaction relationship, with no feelings. To Nazeeh, people were just tools that can be used to go reach the top.

And yet he never tried reaching the top even with the skills. He was just very lethargic. He liked his simple ordinary life, who knows what this trait could end up doing in the future. It might damage one of the main occurrences within this world even. We'll never know.

"That child will benefit us quite well. Didn't you always say you wanted a apprentice?" Li Shen said handing him the child.

"...not like this... I better not get in trouble for you. This was not part of the contract."
Nazeeh said his eyes dull as ever. He stared at the child, for some reason she wasn't crying. He noticed that the child had a level of maturity that wasn't usual for her age. After all she was barely 1 years old.

The look on the child's eyes showed him that she wasn't any normal child.

"What did you do to her." Nazeeh said calmly eyeing the woman.

"Anger took the best of me." Li Shen said, although she felt she should feel ashamed. She didn't have any feeling of feeling ashamed or pity for the child.

She was simply jealous that her brother had a nice child. With one of the most strongest blooming period as well. It wasn't because she was jealous that she could give birth.

No. None of that was the case. The thing was that she hated that her brother always got first.

He was the most favorite from their parents.

He was the most favorite amongst the people.

And he even some how managed to be the favorite amoung the parents of Nazeeh.

But for Nazeeh himself, that wasn't the case. He would care for anyone that would bring his herbs or even care to listen to him talk about medicine or his personal hobbies that he's yet to share with Li Shen. But then again, he would also hate any person for being too close or too invasive of his privacy.

"I see... atleast throw it on something else other than the child. I know you don't care about which side your on. But atleast try to be on the good side. It'll atleast bring you to a better view." Nazeeh said calmly.

"Yeah yeah. Next time Nazeeh alright?" Li Shen said resting on the couch watching the child wander around in their humble abode.

"Why did you bring her here. " Nazeeh said letting the child wrap her finger around his hand and then continuing, "Don't tell me your here to use her as business."

"No! Of course not. I'm not that much of a monster Nazeeh." Li Shen said wandering her eyes to the window.

"I know... what are you planning to do with her?" Nazeeh said his eyes closed templating what she wanted.

"Let's raise her." Li Shen said all serious.

"...eh? Raise her? None of us are capable for that though." Nazeeh squinting his eyes and poking the child's nose.

"Yes, why what's wrong? What's funny. " Li Shen said not finding what is the comedy gold.

"I don't believe that you think we are capable of raising a child. None of us even were treated like children, how are we supposed to act like mommy and daddy to her. " Nazeeh said bluntly crossing his arms.

The child snuggled next to Nazeeh as he ruffled her hair.

"We could pretend. I'm a good actor." Li Shen said walking over to sit on the other side of the sofa, and crossing her legs.

"So you want her childhood to be with fake acting parents?" Nazeeh said blunt.

"Why not you take care of the child and I'll do the other work. I'll work so she can have some toys and food. And I'll buy your herbs. So you could still work as the apothecary. " Li Shen said thinking.
"You really thought this through..." He said then continuing, "why do you want me to do this. Why me." Nazeeh asked apathetic.

He booped the sleeping child and ruffled her hair as she leaned on him and fell asleep. He nearly cracked a smile as he let her head rest on his arm.

"Come on and just say yes," she said mumbling about how lazy he was.

"No." He said with a blunt tone, "I don't want to."

"I'll buy you more herbs." Li Shen said crossing her arms. "Beat that. "

"Only if you give me Astragulus. And different specimens for my experiments." Nazeeh said.
"You love making me broke." Li Shen said groaning with despair.

"You have to also help me grow some more herbs. And buy me some more books." Nazeeh added.

"Ughhhh fine fine. Don't add anymore now." Li Shen said.

"Isn't it time for you to go to work. " Nazeeh grumbled annoyed that she might give him more work.

"Yes yes. I'm going. Glad you want me to leave that badly." Li Shen said letting out a groan.

"Get me some daisies on the way out." Nazeeh said wrapping the child in some blankets, he used the daisies that Li Shen gave to make a tonic for the child.

She happily drank it all, and fell asleep again.

Li Shen left for work and it was just Nazeeh and Xiaomao in the house. Nazeeh placed the child in the bed.

Even Nazeeh himself did not know what caused Li Shen to take Xiaomao, she was literally her own niece. And she made it looked like Xiaomao died.

This is too much thinking. I'm wayy to tired for this stuff.

He left the child inside and went outside, he started harvesting some herbs. After he harvested the herbs, he mixed them up and put them in a container.
He then began reading some books. He stopped trying to think on why Li Shen wanted to raise this child. It was baffling.

But after some days, Li Shen and Nazeeh came to easily be able to take care of the child.

Li Shen used a small level of magic to obscure the spider lily mark on the child and put a rose mark instead. It was to protect her of some sorts.

And since she had the blessing of the Rose, from Lady Aiko, it was more easier.
So to remove any suspicion, they also forged some papers to make that they adopted the child, all Li Shen's doing anyway.

Chapter Text

Chapter 4
"Flowers are restful to look at. They have neither emotions nor conflicts."
-Sigmund Freud

Xiaomao was a young girl now, around her teens. She was a lovely girl who cared about everyone. Yet, she didn't show her feelings as much; it was a normal thing for everyone around her.

She didn't go to school since she liked being taught by her father, Nazeeh. Nazeeh liked this a lot, as he would not have to speak with the other parents or guardians. Or children. Xiaomao had this same trait, she absolutely hated speaking with people. But she was able to tolerate groups of people and persuade them.

In her free time, Xiaomao would read the books that were collected by Nazeeh and make poisons and experiments.

Li Shen did not like the fact that Xiaomao took more of her father's traits. Nazeeh was an apothecary and Xiaomao had a great admiration and love for medicine and poison. Even a greater one than Nazeeh.

Li Shen didn't really have a specific want for Xiaomao to do. She just wanted Xiaomao to have a normal life. Not a life filled with riches that can make her greedy.

Her auntie, Li Shen and Xiaomao had a distant relationship, as well Xiaomao had this unspoken distance towards Li Shen.

She dreamt about her finger being cut occasionally, making her wake up in streams of sweat. She knew Li Shen had cut her finger off, but no one spoke of it. Those were the words of the old days. Not good nor bad.

Today she was gathering some herbs from the local garden of the village. Nazeeh had asked her to gather some rare herbs for a new medicine he was willing to test.

She walked out the house, and came out of a dark alleyway. Nazeeh and Li Shen lived in a low poor area, the dark side of the Rose district. Even though it was the dark side of the Rose district, it wasn't that bad as it seems.

Xiaomao was wearing a dark maroon robe with a hoodie over her head. She ran into the streets, basket in hand, heading over to the local garden.

Each and all districts has their dark side. Just with different intensities. The Rose district was all about exercising the ability of the Rose, also known as Love.

The Rose district was more about pleasure. Living in Love's elixir for Xiamao was living in outer space and the background character of a play she has no lines to.

No contribution. No role. No want.

Now you might think it's because of her unusual upbringing however, Nazeeh and Li Shen gave their greatest and truest care toward Xiaomao.

And even though, Xiaomao knew they weren't her real parents. She still loved them.

She just didn't show it well.

What Xiaomao hated about the love within the Rose district was how nasty and cliche it was.

Love is ugly. But it can be pretty as well. Love can hurt but heal at the same time.

But to one that never had felt true love or care... will see no difference to heal or hurt. The pleasure in love is not just physical. But to feel. To feel great things. To feel terrible things.

And yet the Rose district only has one form of love. It cannot be called affection. That form is only pleasure, and should only be called pleasure. Not love.

The cliche part of love was how...unoriginal everything was. There are so many more ways to show passionate emotions, or great ones.

One kiss will never be able to show what you felt, you yourself can only understand. It only suppresses your mentality on speaking your true emotions.

And also, Xiaomao just really had no care for trivial things like love. Just like a certain someone.

After she finished gathering some herbs, she skipped merrily home. Walking inside she saw the door wide open.

"I'm home..." She says putting her slippers on. She played the basket of herbs to the side.

Two tall men were inside the house. Nazeeh looked annoyed and Li Shen looked distraught.

"Whats going on here." Xiaomao said calmly walking over to Nazeeh.

"Is this the child?" One of the men said.

"What's going on. " Xiaomao said eyeing the men, and Nazeeh.

"Are these your real parents." The men said.

"Yes." Xiaomao said without missing a beat.

"They already know." Li Shen said, looking with a custard of emotions.

"Know what?" Xiaomao said staring at the men, "They know about me taking you." Li Shen said with a unreadable expression.

"Give it up Li Shen. No one trusted you either way. Why are you kidnapping children now." One of the men said.

"I was protecting her. " Li Shen said bluntly.
She seemed to feel defeated and burst.

"From what? You took her away from her family, who knows what else you also did. Did this man help you within the process?"
The man said sternly.

"He wasn't part of this. Leave him out of this. " Li Shen said.
"Is he now?" Man A said, he walked closer to Nazeeh eyed him up.
"I knew I shouldn't have said yes..." Nazeeh mumbled with great discomfort at the Man eyeing him down.

"Whatever the case, I don't buy it. Pack all of the girl's things Li Shen. Your trial with the emperor will occur soon. Once the proceedings are finalized. Nazeeh doesn't have anything that could be punished. " Man B said, pushing his spectacles up to his eyes.

Both of the men, grabbed all the things that belonged to Xiaomao. After taking it all, they grabbed the baffled Xiaomao and pulled her away from the house. They pulled her to a carriage and threw her inside into a brown bag. They tied the bag and placed it in the seats.
One of them went to speak to Nazeeh and Li Shen about what will happen to Xiaomao.

"She will be sent to the palace, where she will stay in the foster care. Until we find her true parents of course. There she will attend school and treated better. Without all the lies that you have told her Li Shen. "

Li Shen nearly lunged at the Man who spoke all this nonsense. Nazeeh pulled her back, calming her down knowing that none of this aggravation will fix anything.

"Put your dog on a leash Nazeeh... we don't need to put her down like your other dog." The Man said provoking Nazeeh as well.
Nazeeh gritted his teeth but kept his cool. Soon after the Man walked away to the carriage Nazeeh punched the ground until it bled. Everything he cared about always was taken away from him. He hated the world for it, cursed it even. But he knew one thing, he wouldn't be able to get her back now.

Chapter Text

Chapter 5
"Remember: everyone is a public performer. People never exactly know what you think or feel; They judge you on your appearance."
- Robert Greene
It has been 6 lone months that Xiaomao has been without Li Shen and Nazeeh. After she was taken, she was made to work for the palace. There she was made to act as a maid. As well, she was made to attend classes with many other adolescents. Her classes ranged daily, each day was different.

She was given a little dorm and every day at dawn she was woken to start her tasks. A long list of paper was stuck to the door all due at midnight, it contained all of the tasks that she had to do.

Today she woke up as usual bright and early, her list not long today. She tended to the palace garden, such as weeding and watering all the herbs and flowers. She collected some herbs that she was allowed to take. After that, she took care of some laundry and then she walked off to the academic chambers.

The academic chambers was a small place in where classes was held. Students usually stayed in one classroom or chamber as you can say, and the masters and scholars came and taught them there.

Xiaomao sat in the back and watched the other students bicker amongst themselves. All the teens here were here to work in the palace in their future. Either as a maid or a eunuch for the males. They all had a role to play. Some females were even trying out to be the next ladies in waiting or even consorts.

Xiaomao's friend, a sweet little one that was like a little sister to Xiaomao, Matsuri sat next to her with a bored expression.
"Ugh Boriingg! When is the professor coming?" She said with a pout, resting her chin on Xiaomao.

"Soon. Just wait for a bit 'Suri" Xiaomao moving her neck to let Matsuri lean her head fully.

"Awww but I'm soo boreddd. Ren isn't here yet either. " She pouted even more twiddling some of Xiaomao's hair.

Xiaomao turned and looked at Matsuri, "Who?"

Matsuri stopped fiddling with Xiaomao's hair, "You don't know who Ren is???? How??"
"You never talked about him." Xiaomao said lamely.

Honestly she just didn't care.

"Black long hair guy, black eyes and pale face? Ren?" Matsuri said still baffled as why Xiaomao didn't know Ren.

"... oh him. " Xiaomao nodded recalling Ren. He was the boy that sat behind her, he tried talking to her before but Xiaomao never let it come that close.

He was the type that you would call principles pet. Not only was he a teachers pet. He was their star.

Alongside the professor, who was a fairly tall man, with dark brown hair and hazel eyes was Ren, who walked next to the professor.
As soon as they walked in, all bickering stopped. Everyone either stopped to stare at the professor or Ren.

"Let's talk later." Matsuri said, walking to her seat.

"Children, to your seats now shall we." The professor said bringing his hands together once.

Ren took his seat behind Xiaomao after greeting a few people with his warm smile.

"Now children, I know we all have some background on the hierarchy of the Flower Kingdom, but I need to reteach the topic again as some people failed the test." The professor eyes some students as he spoke these words and then continued, "Ren why not you share with the class on what's the system I'm too lazy to teach these imbecile students. Only good one is you and that other girl, whatever her name is. "

Ren stood up giving a faith groan as he walked up to the class, "Alright let's do this. So its known that Flower Nation has no true rank other than emperor or empress as it self. As for powers there are 4 categories as it can go in. Healing, Teaching, Strength, and Beauty. The substats for Healing is quite simple. Physical or Mental."

He took a breath and continued, "For teaching it's quite explanatory, I'm sure I don't have to go over that and if any of you have any questions just figure it yourself. Strength and Beauty are the same as well."

"But the flowers that are considered at the top ranks are the exotic and rare flowers. Them being, Spider Lilies, Black Dahlia, the Julliette Rose, and the Romeo Rose."

"The Flower Nation had gained the protection of Flowers because our ancestors had fought hard in hell to save themselves from the Titans and they seeked help from the stars. Titans however have a even greater story but that's a different lesson and Professor will teach it. " Ren said finally finishing his lecture and sat down in his seat behind Xiaomao.

Xiaomao fiddled with her book, this wasn't the first time she had learned of this hierarchy. Nazeeh had taught her this as her first lesson. He had said something about the importance of learning your nation's origins.

As soon as class was over, she headed over to her first afternoon task. She had to help in the kitchen that made the meals of the consorts. Menial tasks really, it was peeling potatoes and chopping garlic.

They would never let a measly maid touch the food of a consort. Let alone emperor.

Xiaomao had forgotten all about her talk with Matsuri, but it was too late. It was already evening now and Matsuri had linen duty.

Xiaomao had cleaning duty. She had to slightly broom the floors of the the palace corridors. Once she was done she headed over to the storage units and placed all tools inside and she slowly walked back to her dorm.

As she walked to her dorm, she overheard a few eunuchs.

"Hey, did you hear what happened to Consort Suki?"

"Hmm you mean the necklace? Yeah."

"No you idiot that was literally months ago what era are you living in?? The illness. Brian the illness. Consort Suki fell into a deep illness and the palace doctor can't figure out what it is. "

"Really? I hope it's not contagious. "

"Yeah you're right."

As they finished talking Xiaomao walked straight to her dorm. After laying in her bed for what seemed hours and climbed her window up to the balcony. She sat on the rails of her balcony. She let her hair loose and let it sway from the wind.

For a while, she stared at the twinkling little stars. Recalling from earlier, they were the ones that had given the Flower Nation the powers they are now known for.

And yet no one ever questioned this. I mean obviously they had no reason to, but people live for theories and conflict. Surprisingly this was a exception. Or was it? She raised her left hand, staring at her crooked pinky.

The old work of Li Shen. After some thought she sighed. Then she slid down back to her dorm and slept.

The trees swayed as the trees leaned side to side as the wind hit them. It made a alluring and calming scene for the whole palace. Little did they know, they just slept through a hurricane.

Now hurricanes might sound quite deadly and Ooo scary. But I had lived through quite more things a little hurricane wasn't going to hurt anyone. In the morning, it felt as if a little cool breeze had accompanied the palace, not a hurricane.

Chapter Text

Chapter 6
"And yet, the only exciting life is the imaginary one."
- Virginia Woolf
Quite a monstrosity was seen by Xiaomao's eyes first thing in the morning. First she had to see great trees all piled up on the ground, mind you not neatly. And they were all on the garden patches.

Because of this Xiaomao had to ask help from other eunuchs to help move the trees. They placed them all in the back of the palace, in the disposal area.

After cleaning up the mess, Xiaomao had classes to attend to. She gathered in the academic chambers just as everyone else, but instead of hearing the normal idle chitter chatter. She heard murmurs and whispers.
Out of curiosity, Xiaomao tried to overhear someone's conversation,

"Consort Suki and Consort Aiko? What's going on? Is the palace cursed? Besides its been 10 years since the fire... do you think the Titans cursed us?"

"You heard it was Consort Suki and Aiko? I heard it was a few ladies in waiting too. I heard that a few eunuchs died too. "

"Yeah... I heard they died after the old witch tried to remove any demons that the Titans could summon. But just at the sight of the fire, the eunuchs passed out and died. "

"That's it. That's the only explanation. WE'RE CURSED." The two girls say hugging each other quaking in fear.
Xiaomao felt displeased as she heard this. This was all but a rumor. Rumors couldn't explain anything, they were false stories. Lies.

But yet she knew very well that truth comes with lies.

She didn't have to wait that long, as Matsuri came springing out the door. She skipped towards Xiaomao with a curious look on her face.

"Guess what I heard, all of the consorts and most of ladies in waiting are all sick. Most people think they are cursed."

Xiaomao gave a questioning look, "Why do people think they are cursed? "

Matsuri sat on her chair and scooted it next to Xiaomao, "I heard that the witches and exorcists tried to free any demons that the Titans could've summoned, and once the eunuchs saw the fire, they began to grab their own necks and say they couldn't breathe. Poor souls died a few minutes later."

"Really now? Do you think they are cursed?" Xiaomao questioned recalling her own investigation of the matter to herself.

But before Matsuri could answer, a grand commotion was heard from out the academic chambers. All the students ran out to see what was going on. Matsuri and Xiaomao as well went to go see the commotion. On the side, Ren was watching quietly too.

It was a lady in waiting, it was one of Consort Nari's and she was running like a madman.

"Help me. Help me please. I can't breathe!!"
She exclaimed running around more until falling into the ground.

An exorcist brings out a lotus flower, a white rose, night queen flower, and a 3 star flower relic. She placed then in a mud bowl and added some saffron. After she added the saffron she lit the bowl into flames, causing the surrounding area into thick smoke. The surrounding people backed away after coughing a bit.

Because of the smoke, the lady in waiting coughed even more. She lay on the ground clutching her chest.

"Your killing me. Killing me... stop...stop... help me please..." She said weakly, her face becoming blue by the moment. She coughed even more, clutching her chest even more.

Somewhat figuring out what was going on about the future of the lady in waiting, the exorcist yelled for the doctor,

"Doctor! Bring the doctor. She's not breathing!"

Immediately, a doctor ran to the scene checking the pulse of the lady in waiting and started chest compressions. He stopped a few minutes later.

He stood up with wide eyes, "She is a serious case... I'm afraid she no longer is here with us. "

What kind of quack doctor was he?
Couldn't even tell a description of what happened.

Xiaomao sighed as she thought of what to do, she really just had to do everything. Quietly, she walked back to the academic chambers and sat in her seat as everyone bickered outside about the unfolding scene.

Slowly over time, the crowd dispersed from outside the academic chambers as the teacher instructed them back.

"Ok class, settle down. Calm down..." the professor said after hushing the children to sit down, after they were relatively more quiet he continued, "today we are going to explain our reports, I will call up each student so they can present."

The professor then glanced at the first report placed neatly on his desk.
"Alright... Paul you are up first. "

Paul, a young boy who heard his name being called trembled visibly.
"Ah eh um professor, uh can I go last sir? "

"No. End of discussion, come up even if you didn't complete the report. " The problem huffed and flicked his long white mustache back. He did not pity the failures.

Paul slowly walked down the aisle of students, passing by Xiaomao's desk. As soon as he walked by, he found him self greeting the floor with a mighty kiss.

"Ugh... what happened?.." Paul groaned standing up on his feet, wiping the dirt off his face.

"OMG I'm so sorry Paul. I am so sorry. Super sorry. Let me take you to the doctors office. Professor the pass?" Xiaomao exclaimed as Paul got up from the floor. Her foot was in Paul's way which was why he tripped.

Quite baffled the surprised and out of thought professor shook his head and gave her the pass.

Paul stared at Xiaomao in disbelief as well, "I uh but-"

"No buts come on, I'm soooo sorry. " Xiaomao said nearly dragging him out the chambers.

Paul let himself get dragged by the girl just keeping the thought that he would not have to present his empty report at the moment.

After going a bit far from the chambers Xiaomao let go of Paul, and dropped him on the ground.

"You can walk fine. Follow me to the nurse office. " she said dismantling the whole cutesy demeanor.

Paul flinched at the new demeanor, but followed. Xiaoamao held the pass and walked towards the doctor chambers.

The guards at the front gates were bulky with sleek black hair that was all tied with metallic hair pins. Those were the hairpins of the security eunuchs. They all had their own hairpins, each with different color too. They all represented what you were, or your role in the palace. Right now, Xiaomao had a white hairpin which showed she was merely a student maid.

The guards stared at the pass and checked whether or not it was authentic. After they checked its authenticity they allowed Xiaomao and Paul in.

The doctor was infront the herbal section inside the office. Paul sat on the mat as the doctor spoke.

"And what may you children be here for?"

"He needs a bandage sir, is it in the adhesive section?" Xiaomao said, her voice now a higher pitch.

"Yeah yeah... you can go and grab it, if you knew where it was anyway. Let me come with you..." the doctor said following Xiaomao inside the medicinal room.

The medicinal room was a room Nazeeh would have had a fever dream of. Cabinets. Canisters. All of them were filled with exotic materials and herbs.

Xiaomao tried to not show her excitement as she hurried over and explored some of the canisters. She suddenly remembered that she was on a task and not on a holiday and she began searching for the bandages.

She grabbed the bandages and hurried out without seeing the doctor.
"Here. Bandage yourself up. " Xiaomao said handing him the bandages. She watched as Paul placed a few bandages in random places.

"My cookies?" Paul said scrunching his face, he was really hungry. We can sort of call him like a big back.

Xiaomao rolled her eyes as she took a bag out of her pocket and handed to him.

Paul slowly opened the bag and took a cookie out. He gobbled it down within seconds and went for another cookie. But right after he ate the third cookie, he was barely able to keep his eyes up.

He slowly dozed off and struggled to keep awake. Eventually the poor boy, let loose the bag of cookies and drifted off the a unwanted sleep.

Xiaomao took the cookies from him and ate a few. After a while of wandering around the office, the doctor finally came back.

"Where were you?? I thought I told you to- oh he's sleeping?" The doctor said surprised.

"That's not the main thing. I would like to ask you something." Xiaomao said her demeanor changing immediately, her face was filled with harsh coldness.

The doctor looked away from her harsh gaze, "What would you like to ask me?"

"What was the diagnosis of that deceased woman. " she said cutting straight to the chase. She stared sternly towards the doctor.
"Euuu um well she died from loss of oxygen. Her lungs deoxygenated, and her throat swelled to a point that she couldn't breath. " He said giving a professional answer.

"You realize those are both 2 different things right. " Xiaomao said dumbfounded.

"Egh and how would you know anyway. You have no idea what those words even are. Stop throwing around words." He said annoying after being told off by Xiaomao.

"Doesn't matter if I am throwing around words. Just take this. More people are going to die because of you. Do better. "
Xiaomao said giving the doctor one last look and then walked out dragging Paul along, pass in her hand.

As she left, the doctor looked at the paper Xiaomao handed to him. He huffed and put the paper in his pocket. He wasn't just going to believe whatever this student girl was talking about. She should stick with her own specialties like studying and cleaning.

Class was done now so the academic chambers were empty. Xiaomao dropped Paul infront of the academic chambers and slowly walked back to her own chamber. She arrived at her chamber but stopped, "What do you want."

A silhouette of a boy was seen from the dark hallways. "I guess you noticed me. Well done."

"You need anything?" She said exasperated, her voice sharing faint hints of annoyance.

"I heard what you did back there. I wouldn't have used Paul, personally." The boy said coming closer to sight.

He had the darkest of hair, you could compare it to the night and still be jealous, just like his eyes. However his face was something totally different.

His face, with the sharpest jawline, was one of the most symmetrical one ever. One of the most smoothest faces I've seen. Not a blemish or mark, other than the birthmark.

His nose, tall and sharp fell in shape with his face. His cheek round and sharp on the walls. His fair skin blending in and standing out at the same time. His eyebrows looked as if they were drawn by soft gray pencil in one go. No wonder so many people fawned over him.

"I just brought him to the nurse?" Xiaomao she said adjusting her new demeanor. She wondered as to why he was asking about his. But honestly she just didn't care.

"I can't believe you can't recognize me. With such a high ego of myself, I can't be but feel hurt from your cluelessness. " the boy said walking infront of Xiaomao.

"I know who you are. In the dark how am I supposed to know." She sighed, so predictable. The boy finally took off the hood of his cloak and revealed himself. It was Ren.

"Why did you drug Paul." Ren said eyeing Xiaomao leaning on her door said,
"I have no idea what you mean." Xiaomao said not letting loose, "Look I have things to do if that's all your going to ask me, your wasting your time." She said shutting the door on his face.

She fell onto her bed and laid there for a while. She stared at her sister finger, the moon crescent visibly dark on her pale white finger.

She brought her finger up to her lips letting them linger. She then huddled herself close and slept.

On the other side, the boy was baffled after Xiaomao closed the door on him. "Where did I see her before..." He mumbled closing his eyes as he thought.

Sighing, he brought his lighter and cigarette and lit one up as he leaned on Xiaomao's door.

Chapter Text

Chapter 7
"Two types of people tell you not to learn manipulation. Naive people, and manipulators.
- Lucio Buffalomano

It has been many days since the event with the doctor occurred. Xiaomao and Ren occasionally shared glances but none said a word.

On the other side, the doctor was on the ground holding his red face. Everyone stared in shock as they saw the emperor slap the doctor across the face.

"How many more people are you going to let die. Aren't you the royal doctor? You are a disgrace to the royal kingdom. Some doctor you are." The emperor said huffing, raging on the doctor. Ever since the fire, the emperor became a unraved uncontrollable, immoral man. He ended anyone who despised him. Killed anyone that would oppose him.

The doctor stayed silent as the emperor threw more insults to him. Everyone around him stared as well. They were quite scared as well for the doctor.

"You have 5 days. You hear me? 5 days to get your act up. I assign you to fix Consort Nari. If you let her die, your future is over." The emperor said walking away.

The doctor stared as the emperor left. He immediately bowed multiple times for thanks, he repeated his thanks multiple times, but there was no answer. He slowly dusted himself and stood up, and walked back to her office. The awful truth began to dawn upon him now, he had to somehow save them. But he had no idea on how to. He wasn't the top doctor, people around the Flower Kingdom didn't really have a stress over the amount of doctors they had. And even if they did have some they were not considered official.

Out of all the doctors they currently had, the doctor was considered one of the best. But even though he was considered the best, he barely went to school. He studied medicine from private scholars.

He never would have thought he would work at the palace and work to his demise. He sighed multiple times, he rubbed his head to think of a plan.

He sat on his chair thinking, spinning it around until it finally came to him.

The girl!

He reached unto his pocket and took out the paper the girl had given him with how to save these people.

He read the paper, it was in a old form of Chinese. But luckily he understood it, his old childhood hobby of learning random languages finally proved use.

The paper read this, "sucrose, mix, sodium phosphate, mix, tribasic, mix, anhydrous, mix, hydroxypropyl cellulose, mix,xanthan gum, mix and creme de vanilla. Feed with spoon slowly, don't let suffocate. Do not let patient intake smoke. Diagnosis: pneumonia."

Now the doctor was even more baffled. What was anhydrous? How do you even make it. He had never heard of these ingredients. All he ever did was make home remedies for colds and pain relief.

Now he didn't want to go seek out the girl, especially on how she acted like. She acted just as cold as the emperor, was the thought at the moment. The doctor shuddered at the thought.

He decided to walk around the palace away from the emperors corridors, before he done anything further he eyed his good friend, Maximillius.

"Hey Maximillius, how've you been?" The doctor said a bit more relaxed than before.

"Hmm better than you. " Maximillius said chuckling a bit, it was quite usual for the doctor to get in trouble.
"This time it was the emperor himself... ughh what shall I do... if only a good friend of mine could do a favor for me." The doctor said innocently.

"What now, Naveen." Maximillius looked at him not impressed.

"Uhhh so a girl gave me a medicine that should help all the sick, but I don't understand her instructions. Could you bring her to me? She's scary..." Naveen said clasping his hands together and giving him a begging look.

Maximillius knowing he would get something out of this either way agreed, but he still had further questions,
"So uh what's her name?"
"Unfortunately no, I wasn't able to ask her. I'm telling you Maximillius she is quite frightening." Naveen said shuddering at the thought of her.

Maximillius frowned, this wasn't going to be simple,"Well atleast what was she?"

"She was one of the Rose members and she was a student maid. Who knows maybe she might even have classes with your Ren. "

Maximillius nodded and patted Naveen on the back, "Don't worry buddy, I'll find her. You just gotta remember that you now owe me a favor. "

Naveen thanked the man greatly, he didn't truly care how Maximillius would do his task. All he knows is that he wants it done.

As Naveen walked back to is office, Maximillius walked to towards his home. Ren was sure to be home by now, it was late.

When Maximillius finally reached home, he saw Ren sitting on the balcony eating some cherries occasionally.

"Ren," he said addressing the boy and eyeing his strange behavior, "You have something to do."

The boy frowned as he heard this, "What now. You always make me do your dirty work. " He sighed as he waited for Maximillius reply.

"Think of it as you repaying the favour. And besides I do your work as cap-"

Ren interjected, "OK. OK. I get it. No need to bramble all my business again. I'll get it done," He shifted his position on the railing,"What do I do exactly?"

"Find the girl who made a medicine for Naveen. He says she's in your class. She's a Rose member. " Maximillius said stretching.

"Alright, when do I have to bring her?" The boy asked spinning around on the railing, cherry in mouth.

"Anytime today. You got a plan?" Maximillius asked taking a cherry from Ren.

"Plan B. Be there soon." Ren said eating the last cherry and spitting the seed out behind him. He soon walked out of the man's sight.

Maximillius grin was greater than his face itself. It was magnificent whenever he made his son do his work, the final act was always something lived to watch. One might say per chance that their relationship was of a muse teaching it's creation to shine at their greatest.

Like the crows of thunder sewing together the loom of the night. Ren walked over to the academy. The professor wasn't here yet, as usual he was late.

Students however, conversed with each other waiting for the academy doors to unlock.

Ren watched the students and found Xiaomao. His lips cocked up to the side of his face. He noticed Xiaomao inch away even futhure from his uncanny grin.
He chuckled, and clapped his hands to grab everyone's attention.

"Hey everyone, class meeting time!" He said gathering everyone in the center.

When has he ever done a class meeting? Do they even exist? Xiaomao thought to herself, the situation peculiar to her likings. She decided to wait out and watch what will happen.

Ren brought everyone inside and closed the door. "Sooooo how has everyone been?" He said with his charismatic smile. Screams filled the room as females and even males fawned over that smile.

It was actually quite annoying, but Ren loved the attention. His egocentric self grew everytime a compliment shot towards him. He stared at the gasping crowd staring at the odd one out.

This girl... does she ever loosen her cold face? Ren frowned to himself as Xiaomao yet again didn't fawn and gasp for his smile.

It irritated him whenever someone didn't bow down to his smile. It worked on everyone. Even the emperor, but that shouldn't count due to his weird habits.

The boy scribbled on a piece of paper. It was foreign to most of the students, since none of them should even know this knowledge.

Jiaguwen. One of the oldest form of Chinese writing man kind can trace back. It was so old that only some villages have knowledge to what it means. Though by regulations and new rules the past emperors had made, it was mandatory to be fluent in most forms of Chinese.

Xiaomao stopped her usual expression for a split second when she read what the paper wrote, "Told you I'd win." The girl gritted her teeth, frowning. One might even say it was the third expression that had the most emotion. It was her annoyed face. She never expected this guy to know Jiaguwen as well.

The slight scrunched up eyebrows, her clenched jaw and fists. The fast and faint eye roll. But after a second, her face went to the normal calm rested self.
Ren let out a shiver as he watched the girl change from one face to another.

On the other hand, the students all quiet whispered to each other wondering what the words meant.

"Ah sorry sorry, for wasting your time. You all can go now." He said flashing his smile again as most of them left.
Xiaomao began to leave as well, acting nonchalant about the whole thing she read on the paper. As she began to leave, a large hand blocked her from leaving the academy.

"Uh excuse me. Could you let me through?" Xiaomao told the man.

"No can do little lady. This is her Ren?"

"Yeah. Told you I had a plan." Ren said watching the man's figure come to light. It was Maximillius.
Xiaomao was now trapped in between the space from Maximillius hand and Ren's hand from behind. The girl sighed audibly, staring them down.

"What do you want. " Xiaomao spit out, breaking the grins off the two men.

"Ah so quick to start, how usual." Ren sighed shaking his head. He pointed at Maximillius with his cocky grin.

"Tell her Father." He said leaning to the side. Maximillus ran his fingers over his hair.

"So this is what's going on," Maximillius spoke giving Xiaomao a bit more space. "The doctor doesn't know how to make your medicine. He's a bit of a idiot and he doesn't understand any of the words you've written down. "

"Can't you help him out. Seemed like you knew Jiaguwen quite well. " She said huffing, rolling her eyes.

"No can do. That's medical business I don't meddle in that section. " Maximillius said with Ren agreeing with him.

Xiaomao audibly groaned and facepalmed herself. Ren grinned and grabbed her hand and dragged her. Maximillius gave a thumbs up as Ren took Xiaomao to Naveen.

"You realize that I can walk too, right. " Xiaomao sighed, eyeing the boy.
Ren chuckled, still holding on to her hand, "How am I supposed to know that you won't leave?"

"Whatever." She said letting Ren drag her to Naveen's office.

"Finally. We're here. I get to see the Xiaomao do her magic. "

The girl gave the boy a dumbfounded look, and said nothing. She then walked towards the guards and then eyed Ren, for she had no pass to be here.

"Naveen sent us. Official business alright?" Ren said giving a fist bump to one of the guards. The two guards nodded in unison and let the two of them in.

The tired and not caring Xiaomao said nothing but followed Ren inside Naveen's office.

Chapter Text

Chapter 8
"To evade insanity and depression, we unconsciously limit the number of people toward whom we are sincerely sympathetic."
-Mokokoma Mokhonoana

Xiaomao and Ren went inside the quiet dim lit office of Naveen. The man was inside brewing some herbal tea, one of his favorites. Rosemary tea. Hearing the shuffles of the two kids, Naveen perked out the kitchen.

"Hellooo my savior and Ren." He took the kettle out of the kitchen and presented it infront of them. He placed the kettle on this old fashionable white table.

The two served themselves and took a few sips. Ren had no special reaction, since he came to see Naveen multiple times in the past, due to his father's inconsistent requests. But Xiaomao perked up like a cat with her favorite toy.

The rosemary tea Naveen had made was the same kind Nazeeh used to make for Xiaoamao.

As a little compliment, in which if you didn't know, Xiaomao had great urges on complimenting whichever she felt was of great quality or to her liking. So it was only fair that Naveen's tea needed a compliment.

With great fluster, she managed a small compliment. "...I guess you're not that bad. The tea is good." Hearing that Naveen began to say a word of thanks, but before he could even start Ren began to chuckle mischievously.

"Oh? Rosemary tea is a liking to the mysterious and most coldest Xiaomao? Shows that we can learn something everyday?" He said in a sly tone.

Xiaomao glared at the boy, giving a small cough, "Nevermind that. We didn't come here to discuss tea. We are here for grander business, weren't we Ren?"

Ren kept the smirk on his face but now let off a serious and well mannered demeanor. "Ah yes, I nearly forgot. Naveen, this is the girl that gave you the recipe for the medicine right?"

Naveen shook, "Well you see, uh Xiaomao was it," he asked and continued when he saw her little nod, "I understand Jiaguwen quite well, the problem here is that I got no clue what these ingredients are. "

Naveen took the paper out again, reading some of its contents, "...anhydrous? ...hydroxypropyl cellulose? What the actual Flora is this."

Xiaomao shook her head in disapproval, with great hints of disappointment she spoke, "Alright, alright I get it. First off, anhydrous is an ingredient that can be made of many things, but the easiest is sugar. You have to dry it completely. It's easy to make."

She took a breath and leaned on the wall and continued, "While hydroxypropyl cellulose is wood cellulose, with alkaline. Don't let me explain more bro. My voice is tired." Her head rested on the wall, as she used her pointer finger to relax her head.

With no idea on what Xiaomao had just said right at the moment, Ren stayed silent. Naveen, still unsure of literally everything, decided he had to go to his last resort.

"Miss Xiaomao!" He said with great emotion, "Please! Please help me oh great magic worker Xiaomao!" He was on his knees now, his head on the ground. He was really begging now. Quite pathetic, but reasonable.

Xiaomao opened her eyes, her shock shown greatly, "No need to beg Naveen sir. I understand."

Still he continued to add on his vulnerable begging,"My magic worker Xiaomao, please help me! My life and death is now in the hands of the emperor and you."

"Mister Naveen." She spoke, her voice stern now, "Get up."

Within a second Naveen sat up, wiping his tears away, a broken smile appeared on his face. "Thank you, so very much."

"Besides, I have no other choice. I can't leave with this burnt sun dude..." Xiaomao said eyeing Ren.

Ren pouted, "Aw come on if I'm the sun you're the dim moon."

"You're the dead artist."

"Then you're an insane writer."

"What do you know about me writing???"
"Oh trust me I know."

"What are these low life insults bro???"

"Wasn't my life and death in your hands now? Why are we caring who's an insane writer or a burnt sun." Naveen said bitterly, clicking his tongue from disappointment.

Both Ren and Xiaomao fell silent, both embarrassed. They awkwardly looked away at each other, fiddling with their hands.

"Talk people come on, you were all serious and high and mighty a minute ago, what's wrong now." Naveen said his annoyance was quite visible. He sipped his tea with delicacy.

His short bangs that reached up to his chin nearly fell in his cup. He lowered his cup to the table. His hair, contained of different shades of black shined from the light of the lamps near by.

"...I'll go make the medicine." Xiaomao said standing up abruptly and walking towards the herbal ward.

Ren and Naveen sit there dumbfounded, Ren chuckled after a bit and stared at Naveen.

"I'm bored."

"What do you want me to about it." Naveen said pinching the bridge of his nose.

Ren eyed the ward where Xiaomao was, he grinned at Naveen and motions him to follow. They both walk toward the herbal ward.

After a few moments of watching Xiaomao fawn over the different types of medicinal herbs, Ren coughed slightly to grab her attention.

Xiaomao froze and built her demeanor cold and serious now. She gave a small cough a well and began to work.

Within a few moments and thanks to the equipment and ingredients of the empire, Xiaomao was able to finish the making of the medicine.

"Quick question how do you know how to do this?" Naveen asked surprised she was able to make it.

"I helped my dad out when I was little. He was a medic." Xiaomao responded, dazed from her focused state.

As heard from before, medics and practioners were very rare. Reason being? The people of the Shengyu Kingdom were very reliant on their powers.

The protection of the Flowers, that the Shengyu Kingdom received were given by these celestial bodies known as the Constellations.

Constellations, not truly known from their form they were represented on which Asterism they followed. They were unknown and respected celestial bodies, many whom try to keep on their personal side.

By receiving this protection, the ancestors of the Shengyu Kingdom were able to defeat the Titans that were destroying the homeland.

But now since the Titans have no threat to the Shengyu kingdom, the people have been using their powers for their everyday needs.

From the concern of people abusing their powers, the emperor had multiple agents with high status, such as the Spider Lily, Black Dahlia, and Juliette and Romeo Rose.

They usually specialized in telepathy, strength, and stealth. They were as well in a different ward, the Dreamless Azure.

It is quite easy to spot a Dreamless, for they all had a dark coat and a bright blue badge. This was for the predecessors that abused their power as a Dreamless, now people could receive their consequences from their punishable actions.

After the medicine was ready, the three of them set off to the East court of the palace, where the consorts stayed.

On the way Naveen explained to Ren and Xiaomao on how he was to care for Consort Nari who had fell quite ill due to this unusual illness.

So far everything was all good, the guards had let all three of them within the premise, and they reached Consort Nari's ward.

Multiple women all dressed in lilac robes stood infront the door as if they were guarding a mafia secret.

Naveen stood infront of them, bowing he said with a nervous smile, "Good day, young ladies I have been sent by the emperor to heal Consort Nari. Will you let me through?"

The women glanced at each other, perhaps he might actually be able to heal Consort Nari.

They all eyed Naveen and nodded and glanced at the two that wee behind him. As soon as they soon Ren they screeched.

"Rennnnnnnnn!!! You're here?? Must be hard work doing so much!! Oh my god!!!" The ladies spoke interrupting each other without respect.

"Fine work we do up here don't we ladies," he said flashing them his signature smile.
One of the ladies grabbed the sleeve of Rens robe, creating unease all around.

"How've you been!!! Oh my god!!! I can't believe this is happening!!" The women continued saying.

"Ma'am we have to do official business may you let us through?" Ren spoke politely, reminding the women of the urgent business behind the door.

"Very well. However, one moment," one of the women said speaking up, she must be their elder. "Who is that lowly peasant, and why is she following along." The elder said pointing directly at Xiaomao.

The quiet girl stood still as the elder pointed sharply at her.

"Good day ma'am." Xiaomao said bowing politely, waiting for their responses.

"Who is this girl Ren??? Don't tell me this pathetic girl is your friend!" Another one of the women spoke, she had a sharp appearance. Bun slicked back, and no loose hairs wandering around. She was the image of stone. Cold, round, smooth stone.

"She's helping us, she's a student in the same class as me so-"

The girl interrupted, "then she's not important. Only the doctor and you are permissible to go to Consort Nari."

Ren tried to argue but Xiaomao broke it off, "It doesn't matter. Just hurry it up, if you have any questions just ask me."

Ren continued to hesitate but after some more prodding from Naveen and Xiaomao he opened the door to Consort Nari's room.

Xiaomao took a slight glance of Consort Nari through the crack of the door. The women went inside as well and shut the door on Xiaomao, but before so they pushed her against the wall and gave a her a final warning.

"Listen here little Missy. You may take classes with the High Magesty Ren, but there is no way in hell that you think he would want to be friends with you. You got it ugly Missy?" The elder spoke, her words echoing throughout the ward.

People near by didn't take too long to stare as they didn't want a problem with the Nari soldiers.
That's what those women are called by the other folk, for the Nari solders Consort Nari is their life, and their death. Their beauty and their ugliness. Their wealth and their poverty.

As for Xiaomao's response to the elders threat was, "Hmm? Ok." The women's dumbfounded expression and their anger couldn't be suppressed that long, ran into Consort Nari's room closing the door with a slam.

Xiaomao sighed, remembering why she didn't want to come to Consort Nari's ward, it was because of the Nari soliders.

She sat down on the cold floor, crossing her legs and leaning on the wall. She went back through her memories and stared directly at you.

"I'm not going to mess up alright? Don't give me that look." Xiaomao spoke in a low voice.

You stare directly at her, even in your spiritual form you can still glare just like the old days.

"Just know, if you mess up. It will be your fault and your fault only. " You respond, your white hair let down loose as your sharp eyes pierce the quiet Xiaomao.

"Shut up I get it, don't think I didn't plan my next year's for nothing. " Xiaomao scowled at you.

Sparks flew around your spirit, making odd buzzing and frizzing noises, "Well I gotta go back I guess. Don't worry I'll keep talking!"

Xiaomao rolled her eyes, "Do me a favor and just not talk at all." She stared at the empty space where you were before, thinking to her self.

Everything is correctly placed, right?

Expecting an answer she waited, until she heard, "Yes. Don't worry."

The voice you heard, the name truly doesn't matter. But to reduce confusion for your monologuing mind we can call it The Second Reality.

What the Second Reality is truly a mystery, even to Xiaomao. So she wouldn't able to give a meaning to what it was.

A great set of coughs broke her out of focus, she looked to see where the sound was coming from.

The noise was coming from Consort Nari's room, a great of fit coughs and the sound of people panicking inside.

Xiaomao stood up, and opened the door. The ladies saw she was trying to come in and stood infront of her to block her path. Xiaomao pushed them aside, with a bit more force than expected they fell to the ground.

From the scene of the ladies being pushed to the ground, Ren and Naveen stared but immediately told Xiaomao what was going on.

"She's choking, I don't know what to do water isn't doing anything." Naveen said with great amounts of panic.

Xiaomao walked next to the bed, and immediately brushed Naveen glass of water away.

She brought the Consort to a sitting position, and wrapped her hands around the Consort's waist and struck her fist against them.

She did this repeatedly until the Consort's coughing ended and she spit the thing that was choking her.

It was a piece of chicken. After seeing that Xiaomao glanced at the plate next to the nightstand. She was being fed chicken curry with rice. Unbelievable.

The weak and sick Consort took the hands of the girl and clasped them against her. "Thank you child, you saved my life."

Xiaomao bowed gently and turned to Naveen, "Did you give her the medicine."

As response he nodded, showing the empty bowl.

"Peasant! Who let you come in here!" The elder screamed at Xiaomao. Hearing this Consort Nari held her hand up, making the girl quiet.

"It's fine Airen. She saved my life," she said then turning to Xiaomao, "how will you like me to repay you dear?"

Xiaomao nodded to dismiss her want, "No need ma'am, just doing what's best."

"Forgive me if I am wrong, are you a new medic the emperor has appointed?"

Xiaomao gave a soft smile nodding her head, "No ma'am I am but a student."

"A Rose member talented in healing? Wow that's amazing." The Consort said giving Xiaomao a proud smile.

The Consort tried to stand up, but before she reached the ground Xiaomao stopped her, "Ma'am you are still in a critical position, it'd be best that you rest in bed for a few days."

The consort nodded and layed back in bed, slowly closing her eyes and falling into slumber.

Xiaomao placed the blanket on Consort Nari and eyed the ladies in waiting. "Which one of you are in charge of her food. "

One of the women raised her hand, a nervous and hesitant look on her face.

"This food is not for the sick." Xiaomao said handing plate of chicken curry to her, "One who is sick should have lukewarm soup. Make sure she gets good amounts of water as well."

The lady in waiting scowled, "Are you saying that the foods I choose for Consort Nari are not good enough?? Peasants like you shouldn't get to choose. Besides probably all you ate in your lifetime is just weeds. I know what is best for our Consort." She folded her arms to her chest, walking Xiaomao to make her back face the wall.

"You may know what is best for Consort Nari however this case is different. She is sick. And this doesn't matter whether or not I eat exotic foods. A person who is sick should not eat greasy or fatty foods. Sugar is also a good thing to avoid." Xiaomao said unbothered from Airen towering over her.

Airen placed her hand next to the space Xiaomao was, blocking her path, "Awww is little miss mad that she wasn't born into a rich family? Don't worry I'm sure you can find some chicken curry in the trash just for you." She said with a laugh, pushing Xiaomao to hit the wall.

After watching, Ren decided to act, "Miss, I am sure you can both resolve this in a different way. Harming people shouldn't " He said reassuring her with his soft smile.

Airen paid no heed to Ren's words, Ren and Naveen stared in a panicked and fearful manner.

Xiaomao however had no fear shown in her face which agitated Airen. She pulled Xiaomao's white long hair, seeing no reaction she let it go.

Airen gritted her teeth, "You poor people are so weird. No wonder your parents sold you to the empire."

"Are you done? You sure sound rich by seeing how much time you waste." Xiaomao said walking away.

Ren and Naveen followed behind her, bowing as they left.

"You ok?" Ren asked concerned about how Xiaomao felt.

"Yeah, why." Xiaomao said shrugging, like she wasn't just threatened a fee minutes ago.

"You are scary..." Ren said shivering and inching away.

Naveen stayed silent throughout the full walk until he spoke, "Where are we going anyway?"

"The cafeteria, we are going to talk to the Consort Nari's chefs. They need to change her meal. "

"I see."

"Ren you're going to tell them." Xiaomao said looking at Ren's direction.

"Ehhh??? Why me??" Ren said sly grin and inched closer, "Have you realized how amazing I am?"

"That's not what I meant." She said with a annoyed grin.

"So your saying I'm not just amazing but perfect?" He said giving her innocent angel eyes, with his sly grin he looked like a demon mistaken for a angel.

"Want me to smack you..? Where did you come up with that?" Xiaomao said raising her hand to gesture a slap.

"NO. alright, alright. What did I say Naveen? Women are scary." Ren said inching next to Naveen. After a few minutes of silence Ren decided to ask again, "You still didn't answer why I have talk to them." He said in a much more quieter tone.

Xiaomao stayed silent for a moment hesitating but then spoke, "The people will listen to you more."

"...listen to me more?" Ren said moving next to Xiaoamao now walking at her pace.

"This is a empire Ren. No normal person let alone a Rose member who's a student maid will be taken seriously," she said looking at Ren, "Besides, you have a higher status than me. My father is a village medic. Yours is the captains personal guard. In the land of kingdoms, politics are everything."

Ren paused for a moment, then understanding he spoke, "I see, your quite knowledgeable for a little Missy, you know that.

Xiaomao said nothing to that walking in silence, then speaking quietly,"Politics are above all. Power comes along politics. You have no power you aren't worth within the role of politics. Life and Death are in politics as well."

Ren hummed in response, "Life and Death?"

"A simple commoner, if committed a mistake, would be executed within a second. A nobleman however might get a second chance."

"Are you saying you are at higher risk of dying. That's absurd, you know? Everyone is at risk of death. Whether it be from politics or disease.

"Everyone is at risk." Ren said huffing, eyeing Xiaomao's expression. It was filled with melancholy and nostalgia.

You speak to Xiaomao, "After we put the final puzzle piece, politics will truly never matter. It will all be a better place. The perfect world."

Xiaomao listens to Second Reality from her mind responding, "Is it the perfect world?"

But to that question, not even Second Reality answered.

They all walk in silence now contemplating these words that Ren and Xiaomao had spoken of their thoughts of politics. It truly was unnerving.

Chapter Text

Chapter 9
"The only thing that keeps me stable is Second Reality. But if he wasn't around. What would I have been?"
-Xiaomao

Before Ren entered the cafeteria, Xiaomao had given him some things to tell the chef, such as what to put in the Consorts meals and liquids she should be given.

As Naveen and Ren went inside, Xiaomao waited outside. She sat on the cold floor leaning on the wall. She sat there in silence until Second Reality decided to break the silence.

"...Even if we put the final puzzle piece correctly," she said with some hesitation, "will we still get the ending we want?"

To that Xiaomao answered, I will make sure of it. I didn't plan for anything. It has to work. She shifted her position, twirling her hair.

"Will that even be a perfect world?"

There is nothing perfect, you should know perfectly. Even if it is me at the end. That's fine. This is why authors are different from readers. Authors will write an ending, the reader can interpret it in different ways.

Second Reality sighed, sitting next to Xiaomao in his spiritual form. "You're weird you know? You act like you despise every person around but inside you're so sympathetic to people."

If I'm weird then you are included in there.
"I suppose." Second Reality said in a quieter tone.

Just pretend everything will go our way.

"Pretend? What, you're going to now pretend your life away? Life is full of hardships. Many that cannot be resolved." Second Reality exclaimed with bursts of anger.

I'm not saying to pretend there is no hardships. Just pretend it.

"Oh so now you're going to act like a bitter lemon?"

Leave me alone. Be quiet. You don't even exist in this timeline. Go away.

Second Reality kept quiet. Then after a moment disappeared from her sight.

Fading.

The hurt and bitter Xiaomao stared at the ground drawing flowers into the dirt with a stick.

Why does everything go wrong.

Xiaomao thought to herself not noticing Ren and Naveen finishing up. Ren tapped her shoulder to grab her attention, "Yoo hoo! Little Miss we finished our work. Are you going to pat us on the head for doing a good job?"

"Ok what the actual-" Xiaomao said taken off by Ren's words.

Ren laughed eyeing Naveen to see his reaction. Naveen looked quite amused on Xiaomao's reaction.

"Naveen you did what I told you to do right? About the trees burning?" Xiaomao said changing the subject. She turned to Naveen, seeing him nod she said, "That's great."

Xiaomao made sure that Naveen had done this one task, she had asked him to tell the eunuchs to stop burning the trees that were blown off the roots from the great winds.

Because they were burning so many trees, the smoke clouded the sky which made the sick people harder to breath. Now the eunuchs would reuse the trees for other uses.

Incense as well was banned. Or, well it has been reduced the use. Incense should now only be used for ceremonial purposes. If they want to exorcize a spiritual being, they should ask a medic to make sure it's not just a illness.

Time skip 3 days.

Xiaomao and Ren had been going to the academy as normal, not speaking to each other unless Xiaomao answered to Ren's banter.

Xiaomao now let Ren come near her anytime, getting used to his presence. Xiaomao completed her normal tasks and carried out her usual path to her dorm.

Right out the door, unexpected but excepted was Ren holding a cigarette to his mouth waiting outside her door.

Xiaomao walked up to her door not answering Ren's presence. She dropped her bag to unlock the door. She fished the keys out her pocket and opened the door. She looked at where she placed her bag and saw Ren holding it instead.

His ragged figure stared her down, cigarette in between his fingers, "How've you been?"

"Fine," she said staring at her bag. She lunged to grab it, gritting her teeth as he raised the bag higher making Xiaomao jump to try to grab it.

"Give. Me. My. Bag." She said threatening him with her glare.

Amused, Ren laughed letting Xiaomao eventually have the bag back. She huffed and began to walk back inside.

Ren stopped Xiaomao by holding one of her long braids. He twirled the braid in awe on how long it was.

Xiaomao stared at him unamused waiting for him to speak. Ren let go of her braid, having something else in mind. He began to speak but instead just went inside her dorm closing the door with him and her inside.

"What do you want..." Xiaomao said groaning as he closed the door.

"Ooo~ lovely place we have here. Not quite what I was expecting. Though it was going to more...medicine." Ren said looking around, making sure he took his shoes off at the doorway.

Xiaomao took her shoes off as well at the door. She threw her bag on the couch watching Ren looking around.

"Tea or coffee." She asked bluntly, tightening her braids. Ren stopped in his tracks, contemplating then spoke, "Coffee."

"I presume black?"

Ren nodded as he looked around more. Her dorm wasn't bad. It was cozy, yes but it was filled with books. In the back of her dorm she had a mini garden in the dorm, she renovated the place completely.

Her room was simple, bed with a carpet, bookshelf and the closet. She had a mirror attached to the closet. Flower pots with different flowers were all around the house. She had a locked drawer as well.
Finally bored of seeing all the books, he sat down. A few minutes later Xiaomao brought 2 cups of coffee, one for her and one for Ren.

They both sipped the cups in awkward silence, no one knew what to say. Ren decided to break the silence, "Nice thing you've done around."

Xiaomao hummed in response, her eyes wandering around her dorm. Unease grew from the awkward silence and Ren spoke, "You never seemed like a book nerd, this whole place is filled with books."

"I've read since I was a child." She responded, finishing her cup of coffee.

Ren as well finished his cup of coffee, stood up walking to the girls room. Xiaomao followed him inside.

"Say... I was wondering why do you have this drawer locked?" Ren asked mischievously fiddling with the lock.

Xiaomao paused, not uttering a word, she nervously chuckled, "...hehe you wouldn't want to go through a girl's belongings now would you?"

"Does it look like I care?" Ren said bluntly.

"I guess not. But still!!! Don't open it!!"

He poked the lock, it casually fell onto the ground, Ren and Xiaomao stared at each other in shock.

The drawer became slightly ajar, peeking its contents of books and paper.
Ren opened the drawer, it was filled with manga. Funny thing, it wasn't even bad manga.

"This is what you were afraid of me seeing?" Ren asked dumbfounded. He tapped the mangas noticing some papers underneath, "Manga isn't even that bad..."

He reached out and grabbed a few papers, Xiaomao panicked. Her eyes darted all around the room. "H-hey why not we do something else?"

What the flip???? Im sure I locked the drawer.

Second Reality answered chuckling in Xiaomaos head, "Lol you did."

Second Reality???? Why'd you do that bro????

"Don't forget I was mad at you."

Ugh... this makes it even then.

Ren looks through the papers eyeing on that caught his eye. It had multiple doodles and a bunch of words on it. It was a draft of a book. He read one scene that had multiple exclamation points.

"What's this? A dance before death on the midnight rain?"

She looked away all flustered, muttering, "That's a scene in one of my books..."

Ren looked surprised, "You don't seem the type to write."

"I do ok? That shouldn't be a problem." She said defensively crossing her arms over her chest.
Didn't he say I was a writer just a while ago>

"Why's the next part empty? What's happens next??"

"Oh um I didn't write it yet."

"Why???" Questioned the young boy holding the paper looking all over it.

"I had a little authors block." Xiaoamao admitted scratching her chin.

"Hmm... hey I just realized something. I have a drawing of this scene. How on earth do you have one written??" Ren mumbled in surprise.

"Huh? Really now?" Xiaomao said surprised as well.

"I got a great idea. Let's come to my dorm and you can see the drawing I made so you can get ideas." Ren said dragging her away without letting her answer back.

Xiaomao let herself be dragged yet again, Ren running to a whole different section in the palace. This was the section of nobleman or royal guards dormitory.

Ren unlocked the door running to his room, not dragging Xiaomao anymore. She took her sandals off and walked to his room. His room was well...

Quite different than expected, for most people. You see, Ren's room was filled with random poems and drawings he made. Photographs and everything. It was quite decorative.

"Nice room." Xiaomao commented noticing the tiny stars on the wall.

Ren smiled wider than possible as he put a painting infront of her eyes.

Xiaomao couldn't help but stare at it fascinated. The piece featured the midnight moon, white and silvery.

Delicately showing the movements of the gentle midnight rain. The closeness of the girl and the boy dancing. The eyes soften, and yet the eyelids sharpen at point. The background filled with silvery red petals, mimicking the spider lily. It highlighted both of their faces, one tear stained and the other holding on for dear life. The painting showing their closeness while dancing.

It was beautiful. Truly a piece of art.

Then Xiaomao noticed something, "Hey Ren, what's these specks near the boy?"

"Hmm oh that? I don't know really, I just felt that it should be there." Ren said staring at his creation.

"It's magnificent." Xiaomao whispered breathless.

"Oh? Is that a compliment I hear?" Ren said, his cocky self returning.

"Take it as one, fool" Xiaomao said turning away from him as he made it awkward now.
"You know what? I wanna try something." Ren said smiling mischievously.

"What...no." Xiaomao said declining immediately.

"I won't take no for an answer. And... I didn't say what it was yet." Ren said slyly inching closer, "Let's reenact this scene of dancing till death."

For a split second, Xiaomao looked as if she was hurt. Guilt, pain, and sorrow stained her face. She composed herself, hoping Ren didn't notice.

Yet Ren did notice, but he didn't bother. He grabbed her hand and ran out the door barely giving anyone time to put their sandals on.

Funny enough, it was drizzling out and it was dark to look like midnight. Cherry blossoms flew through the drizzling rain staining Xiaomao's hair.

Without wasting time, Ren pulled Xiaomao closer even as she tried to pull away. He held her close keeping her there for a second. Then he held her hand in a waltzing position. They were about to dance until they saw a familiar face.

Xiaomao immediately got off him brushing the dirt off her clothes, looking away.
The familiar face grew closer, it was Naveen. He looked put of breath as he panted hard. The rain was falling harder now but everyone stood still.

"Ren... Xiaomao... they...they need help. We gotta go now." Naveen said out of breath.

Xiaomao grew serious alongside Ren wanting to know further she asked, "Whats wrong? The medicine backfired?"

"Let's talk and walk," he said leading the way to the palace.

They both followed him silently, the rain dripping off their clothes. "It's Miss Airen. I believe she grew quite ill. I have the medicine with me, and I've given it to her but she's grown worse."

"Has she been near any smoke?" Xiaomao asked, Airen wasn't the most likable person but a person was a person. She couldn't just let her die because she doesn't like her.

"She's said no." Naveen said nodding, he opened up the door. They all shooke themselves until they stopped dripping rainwater.

Xiaomao rushed towards her, checking on Airen. She was unconscious, breathing barely. She stared at the other ladies in waiting who were weeping silently. "Hey. Was Miss Airen near any smoke. Incense?"

They shook their heads in unison.
Xiaomao huffed, this was going to be more of a hassle than she thought.

She began to pump air into Miss Airen. That was the only thing she was able to do now. They couldn't give her extra medicine, it might make her worse.

What now, Second Reality?

"Just wait along. This has to happen." Second Reality answered watching the situation.

Airen was in very bad shape. Her breathing was shallow, and she wheezed constantly. And her coughs. She wouldn't get better. She was supposed to, but something messed it up.

This was the room Airen had been staying for the past months.

Something however smelled different. It smelled like vanilla.

Xiaomao patted her pocket to make sure her phone was still in there, she sighed of relief.

She kept on pumping, Airen's breathing was getting even worse. She called out to Naveen," I'm not sure if we can do anything else for her."

Naveen softly sighed, rubbing his head.

Finally one of the ladies in waiting yelled out, "She did it. She made us give her incense!"

The whole room went silent. Even the unconscious Airen woke up and glared at the lady in waiting. She on the otherhand bowed to Xiaomao, "I'm sorry Miss, I didn't say it earlier. She made us bring her incese since she liked the smell."

The quiet Xiaomao nodded, "Thank you."

Through out the whole day Xiaomao pumped air into Airen. But nothing was working. She moved Airen to the steam bathes as well. That didn't work.

Just as it was time to give Airen the second dose of the medication. Airen slapped Xiaomao's hand away making sure she spilt the medicine. Xiaomao, quick on her foot made sure not a single drop had spilled.

Through a spoon Xiaomao tried to fed Airen the medicine, but Airen threw the spoon. "Miss Airen, this medicine will help you feel better. Otherwise you'll die."

Airen responded in a raspy voice, "Then let me die. Why do you care."

"Miss Airen. Why are you so fixated on this form of life, death?" Xiaomao asked knowing the outcome.

"Leave me alone. Why should you care. Why can't you let me die." Airen said stubbornly.

"No. I won't let you die." Xiaomao said forcing Airen to take some medicine.

Airen took a stick of incese from her pocket and stabbed herself in the neck. Shocked as to what happened, Xiaomao ripped a piece of her clothes and tied it around Airen's neck as a makeshift tourniquet. She gently took out the stick of incense. Putting gentle force on the wound she was able to stop the bleeding.

Xiaomao couldn't help but feel dizzy from the amount of blood. Her world began to spin but she knew she couldn't faint now. Hot blood stained the girls hand, making her tremble slightly.

Naveen and Ren stood there in shock unable to grasp the situation. Xiaomao began to slowly compose herself.
"Naveen. Pump her." Xiaomao commanded sternly, which Naveen did immediately.

But the blood had already clogged her throat, reaching her lungs. The liquid red blood stained Airen's fingers as she laid there lifeless.
Naveen was the first one to speak up, "...We're sorry."

The girls tremble grew more as she let go, leaving the tourniquet on Airen's lifeless body.
Xiaomao stared at the blood that stained her fingers, her hand all cold now. She trembled greatly, hoping no one would notice.

The other ladies in waiting fell to the ground sobbing uncontrollably.

She died...

And I'm not even crying.

Xiaomao felt her face turn wet, she wiped the hot tears away with her arm.
She kept trembling staring at the blood. So... red.

Her world began to spin greatly, it felt as if she was floating. She felt hands around her, it was Ren.

"You did great. It's not your fault."

Xiaomao was unable to speak or move at this point. Her eyes widen greatly, her body tense.

She moved away from Ren muttering, "I'm fine..."

Ren let go, knowing better that Xiaomao wouldn't feel better with him pestering her. A few hours the Consort was informed of the tragedy of her eldest lady in waiting.

The shock of her death stunned the woman greatly, news spread like crossfire that the lady in waiting Airen, had bled herself to death.

News reached to the emperor, so he decided to meet the unknown student little miss, as everyone called her that.

He had no more grudges with Naveen as he had saved her as asked.

Xiaomao was sitting out the door as they were preparing the body to transport it to the deceased fridge.

The family members of Airen were inside, sharing their last moments with her.

The girl had washed up all the blood from her hands, but they were still pink. Her heart throbbed as her memories recalled the incident.

This is what you meant.

"Yes. I told you before, this is a puzzle piece. A piece that has to stay." Second Reality said, his spirit sitting next to Xiaomao.

That feeling... it was terrifying.

"We still have it. That one human fear. You're still human. Quit shaking. Ren might come near you."

Xiaomao composed herself yet again, huddling close to herself by hugging her feet. Then she saw everyone around her bowing.

She eyed the emperor, and she stood and quickly gave a modest bow.

Emperor Aranthor stood infront of Ren and Xiaomao, "which one of you is the rumored little miss?"

Chapter Text

Chapter 10
"It was my turn to be a clown"
-ORV (I forgot which chapter)

...little miss? Xiaomao shot him a irritated look, she narrowed her eyes, staring in the distance. Her head tilting sharply, with her jawline tense.

What did he say????

For a moment Xiaomao's face nearly scrunched up in forms of hurt and sorrow, yet no one caught her expression before she pulled her Facàde back on.

"Yo don't worry about it. Just a silly thing Ren did." Second Reality whispered next to Xiaomao.

Xiaomao said nothing, realizing that Ren was pointing at her. She looked at him, annoyed a bit.

"So you are the rumored Little Miss, correct?" Emperor Aranthor said, his voice sounding like a boy not a day older than 15.

"Uh... yes that is correct. I am...Little Miss." Xiaomao said with multiple hints of awkwardness and bewilderness.

"I would like a word with you. Ren you may come along if you like." Emperor Aranthor said nodding to Ren and gesturing they both follow him.

They all reach a office within the palace corridors, opening the door one could see the basic and simple office it was.

It was embraced with a pure ivory wallpaper, with a table in the middle and a chair on the side. Quite simple the design, but Ren and Xiaomao saw not a single window.

The emperor brought in two extra chairs and gestured Ren and Xiaomao to sit. As they both sat, Emperor Aranthor began to speak.

"So I've heard that you've been helping out our Naveen the medic."

"Yes sir, I have helped him out a little." She said modestly.

"Strange, you know? You are quite a unique one." The emperor stared at Xiaomao covering his eye to see her through the small lines of his hand.

"Watch carefully Mao. He's trying to summon his power. He's trying to read your aura." Second Reality said watching them both.

Hmm? I don't need to do anything right?
"Yeah, just watch" Second Reality responded floating midair.

The emperor shook his head in wonder, he turned to Ren and did the same thing, his face scrunched up and wrinkled.

"Strange. Little Miss you said you were of the Rose complex correct?"

She nodded, sitting still not wavered by the emperors suspicions.

"I've got a personal question to ask Little Miss," he said shifting in his chair. "You don't have a special ability or wall do you?"

"What do you mean ability or wall Sir?" She asked adding confusion in her tone.

"...nevermind. Well Ren have a good life ahead of you. Take care. Both of you are dismissed." The emperor said sighing and rubbing his temples.

The two both bowed infront the emperor and walked out the office.

"What was that about I wonder..." Ren said gazing at the distance of their location to the nurse ward, where Airen's corpse was being kept.

Timeskip ~ 2 days.

It was the day of Airens funeral. The sky was cloudless, filled with the rays of sunshine. Lines of people gathered at the main hall sharing their respects for Airen.

Whispers echoed around the palace, rumored she was murdered. Others said she had tormented on herself.

On the other side, Emperor Aranthor stood next to the coffin of Airen. He looked around noticing Xiaomao in the line with the other students maids. He looked to the other side, Ren with the nobleman and the guards. He stood by his father, staring at the distance ahead.

Emperor Aranthor couldn't help but think things not relevant to the funeral. First he thought about mint ice cream. He craved for some mint ice cream. His mouth watered as his mind fell into the hands of mint ice cream.

He shook his head to think about different things. He decided to think about something else. After a while, his mind wandered on what happened two days ago.

His mind wandered on how he couldn't read Xiaomao's aura. His mind was filled with shock, that the little miss, a little nobody had an effect to his amazing powers.

His powers worked on everyone. The gardener, the medic, the consorts. Who in the Shengyu Kingdom was this little miss?

Not only was that he couldn't read her aura. She was merely a Rose member. Low ranked and a student maid.

His only thought was to keep an eye on that little miss. For who knows what trouble she could bring in this world.

There was absolutely no knowledge on her. Only that she was bought to the palace by two men for work. He was sure they weren't her parents either. Well he certainly hoped not.

They were ugly. Pointy fang like teeth, and spiky hair. Instead of a vertical beard, they both had a horizontal beard.

If they truly were her parents, well... let's hope she's adopted. Even though Xiaomao wasn't the most prettiest or most charming, she surely could slap those two men on the cheek and it wouldn't be considered a insult.

That's enough of hearing Emperor Aranthor's mind yapping away about Xiaomao's enigmatic past.

The funeral was finally coming to an end and everyone dispersed from the area.

Aranthor decided to use his free time on some valuable things.

He went straight to the palace aquarium.

There's was a great wall, and when I mean it, there was a huge wall. The wall started from the ceiling to the ground. With clear glass and filled with water an aquatic creatures, multiple people often went to calm their nerves here.

However most people didn't really get the hype over fish, so mostly it was a quiet location.
If Xiaomao was ever given the option to choose where she'd wanna work, she knew that she would choose to be here.

Aranthor was on one side of the fish wall, while Xiaomao and Second Reality was on the other.

Xiaomao had her eyes for the Siamese fighting fish. These particular fish resonated with her quite a lot. When she was younger someone used to ask her why she had a liking towards these sort of fish.

"I survive just like the Siamese fish."

But no one would really understand that explanation. They would respond with a huh and then lose interest in the topic itself.

Second Reality too was fascinated but their nature.

They both eagerly stared at the fish wall like little children at a festival. Both of them eyeing the little Siamese critter.

Well this is one thing that that hasn't changed. Xiaomao told Second Reality.

"True, we always liked them didn't we, even before..." She said her sentence fading middway. Xiaomao didn't even question it.

Both of their faces were filled of great nostalgia of their younger years. The little adolescents who've grown up too early.

"Wait she???" Second Reality abruptly asked, giving Xiaomao a questioning look. "Why do you keep on referring me as a she. I'm literally a dude. Remember."

You sure look like a girl... she grumbled as she eyed him down.

"That's better. You still can't forget your own brothers gender ya'know" Second Reality said rolling his eyes.

Xiamao sighed, bringing her face closer to the clear glass. Her thoughts roamed to that bastardous boy. His choice of nicknames were not the best at all...

Second Reality? Xiaomao called, after he roamed in his spiritual form far across the fish wall.

"Hmm? What do you want." He responded still playing around with the fish.

Why did Ren make the nickname..?

And how does he know it?

"Don't make me repeat things that will obviously hurt you. Do you want to think about those things now?" Second Reality said in a cold and rashful tone. Seemed like he wasn't so keen on bringing up whatever past it was either.

To those words, Xiaomao didn't respond she yawned however, pulling back Second Reality back into her body.

Let's go, Second Reality. We still have so much things to do.

And with that she left, closing the doors of the aquarium behind, in the distance you could notice the Siamese fish waving goodbye.

Meanwhile with Aranthor, he just stared ahead at the sight he was shook from for the last few minutes.

It was Xiaomao talking to herself. Now this may seem normal, however to Aranthor it looked as if she was conversing with another being of sorts. And she engaged in the conversation with gestures and everything.

Aranthor couldn't even squint his eyes any further, if he did his eyes might've popped right out of its sockets.

He was confused, he was bewildered. He was in a swirl of emotions.

Until his mind came up with the only logical answer.

She was insane, to speak more clearly - schizophrenic.

Why else would couldn't he read her aura through his ability. It worked on everything else. Even on poop.

If she was schizophrenic then her mind would be in a state of relapse and he wouldn't be able to read her aura at all.

This was the only logical answer.

Aranthor rubbed his temples with his two front fingers, he quit thinking about the intricate scene he just saw and decided to call it a day.

After all he was probably just tired. With the funeral, with the weird scene. Everything.

It would be so much easier after a good brain break. So thus he decided to walk out of the aquarium bidding farewell to the fishes.

Meanwhile with Xiaomao, she and Second Reality were giggling with their hands covering their mouths after the little scene they had just made.

They knew Emperor Aranthor was on the other side of the aquarium, they thought that their actions were quite humorous.

After their fit of giggles subsided, they eventually drifted off to sleep. Unknown of what large day tomorrow will be.

Chapter Text

Chapter 11
"It's merely a day in the year, showing how many how much of a disappointment we've grown to be. Why celebrate it?"
- me

Ugh

Today is what I think it is isn't it? Xiaomao asked Second Reality.

"Yes. Let's just hope it's less hectic than last year..."

Xiaomao groaned, hesitating to get off bed. What if I just pretend to be sick today. I sure feel sick.
"No. You can't just mope in bed with the air conditioner powered to the top." He replied rolling his eyes but understanding her feelings.

Xiaomao groaned again, suppressing the urge to yell. She put her usual clothes on, a black hoodie and let her hair loose.

She put her makeup on hiding the spider lily mark. It was a habit Li Shen had taught her. It wasn't that she didn't want people to know she was a spider lily. But she didnt want to live with all of that hassle.

She sluggish brushed her teeth when she noticed something through the window.

There was a parcel outside her door.

Not thinking much of it, Xiaomao brought it inside and opened it.

It was from Li Shen.
In the parcel was some homemade food and note that Li Shen and Nazeeh wrote.

She faintly smiled.

Of course they would remember.

She kept the note closed and put it inside her drawer. She stared at the containers of food until she decided to put them all inside the refrigerator.

She walked out the dorm after putting her wooly coat on. It was a black coat with some black fur on top. She wasn't the particular person to be fashionable but she like staying warm. Even though she liked staying cold.

She walked over to the palace garden and finished her daily tasks of weeding the garden.
Before she even knew it, it was time to go to the academy.

So far, none.

"Don't jinx it now." Second Reality said floating beside Xiaomao letting his arms sway with the wind.

She finally reached the doors of the academy and hesitated to open the door. Gulping down her anxiety she finally opened the door.

She walked to her usual seat infront of Matsuri and stared at the clock.

Xiaomao fidgeted with her fingers as her anxiety grew larger. She was expecting the same thing to happen as last year.

One person would say Happy Birthday and then the whole class would know. And since they had some sort of pity for me, they would sing happy birthday in every class. From that she would have to face the awkwardness everytime and reply with a thank you.

But now not even Matsuri was acknowledging that she even was here.

Xiaomao sighed mentally, Thank God she's not doing it now.

Then all of a sudden Matsuri shot up from her chair, "Xiaomao, Xiaomao! That's a cool coat."

"...thanks." Xiaomao said diminishing her slight delusion of hope. I wear this coat everyday. Xiaomao thought to herself.
Thus class began normal as ever, the clock ticked and Xiaomao could feel the effect of skipping breakfast yet again from a stomachache.

She gripped her coat and fidgeted slightly. Her fingers shook like an engine in a car. She quietly slapped her hand to stop it from trembling so hard.

Second Reality?? Where on earth are you. I need your help.

"Can't help you now. Xi■om■o ■b□ki. A. Idiot."

What.

Xiaomao gritted her teeth and clenched her hands into a fist as she heard Second Reality's words.
Idiot my ass. Why are you never here. She hissed to Second Reality.

But there was not a single peep out of the white haired bastard.

After a few hours of enduring the stomachache, Xiaomao forgot about it.

It was now lunchtime so she walked back to her dorm. She took out the food Li Shen made for her and heated some up. She ate some food and then packed some for Naveen.

She put her coat back on and walked out the house with the container of food. She walked slowly to Naveen's clinic.

She knocked slowly knocked three times and waited for a response.
This time she didn't have to go through security, because previously Naveen gave her a little badge to show so she could come in ease.

Naveen opened the door, "Ah little savior welcome. Come in please."

"I can't come in now Naveen sorry, but I have some food for you. Just think of it as a thanks."

"Oh ok, thanks. Happy Birthday also." Naveen said waving her bye.

Xiaomao gave a quick reply not expecting that reply at all, "Oh thank you, you too."

She hurriedly walked away, her face now all pale from embarrassment and shock.

Ok so how the actual flip does he know my birthday.

"No idea actually." Second Reality said squinting towards Naveen's clinic, trying to figure out how he knew her birthday.

She decided to not think of it, but it didn't work. How did a random guy I met a few weeks ago know my birthday but a friend of around 3 years not remember.

She kept walking towards her dorm, but before she could fish her keys, out a swift arm grabbed her and placed a hand around her mouth.

| Flight and Fight Resistance Lvl : 5 Activated |

Xiaomao began to twist the intruder and flick most of the pressure points she could see. However then a hand stopped her.

"Calm down. It's just me."

Xiaomao looked up and stopped choking the intruder.

It was Ren.

You bastard Second Reality why didn't you tell me it was Ren. I was nearly about to choke the life out of him.

"I couldn't control this. This didn't happen in the last round." He replied watching the scene from his floating position.

Ren brought Xiaomao closer into a embrace. He rested his head on top of her head. His hand on the nape of her hair. He brought her closer and muttered something to her ear.

"happy birthday."

Under Ren's hold Xiaomao trembled as she moved away from him at a respectable distance. Her eyes fidgeted and wandered as her anxiety levels grew beyond the scale.

"Calm down. You can't mess this up." Second Reality said bringing Xiaomao back on her feet.

"Thank you..." She said unable to keep her gaze at Ren.

Ren walked to Xiaomao and patted her head.

"I'm sure no one except Naveen said happy birthday."

Xiaomao didn't know what to say, so she went for the more truthful route. "It doesn't really matter. I mean like it's fine really."

Hearing that Ren gave her a sharp look, "What do you mean it's fine? How did none of your old friends remember your birthday when you remember theirs."

"She probably had a long day and forgot." She said referring to Matsuri, recalling that it was usual for Matsuri to be in a bad mood but she still remembered to act nice around everyone.

"So your basically saying that a bad mood is a good enough reason for someone to forget their friends birthday?" Ren said munching on a pocky stick he stole from Xiaomao's pocket.

Seeing the pocky, Xiaomao felt her pockets but felt none of her snacks she kept. She gave Ren a annoyed look but kept her mouth shut.

"I don't really celebrate my birthday." Xiaomao said honestly, she stared at the ground waiting for his reply.

"That doesn't mean you don't deserve happiness. You can still be happy about your birthday."

Xiaomao fell quiet, unable to respond to his words. Since when can the emo bastard talk such mind-blowing words?

"Anyways, I have to go. But still don't forget what I said ok?" Ren said giving her a smile and walking away with a hand up to wave.

She watched as the figure disappeared into the void of darkness. She didn't even realize how late it was.

Just how long has she been talking with Ren?

She took her keys out and went inside her dorm. Taking her sandals off, the first thing she did was go straight to her bed.

Her body shook and trembled. Why did Ren have to be like this.

In every round he was the same. Smiling, nice and teasing. Then he would become cold but caring.
Her mind moved in circles as she became vision became blurry. Her head felt like it was circling. Her breath became more shallow and she collapsed on the bed. Unable to move.

Her line of vision was blurred with yellow streaks and every time she moved a muscle her migraine shot up like a needle on a nerve.

What was worse was the underlying stomachache she still was facing from the early morning.

She felt the sense of nausea. She ran to the restroom. She threw up everything she ate and didn't eat.

Her eyes now all watery from the lack of oxygen. She wiped her mouth and went right to collapse on the bed.

She called out Second Reality, he floated next to her and turned into his physical form.

His white long hair and never cut bangs covered his eyes but you could tell that he knew what was going on.

"Again?" He asked with a soft look. He didn't wait for a reply. He teleported to the kitchen and opened the cabinet. He opened the jar of vitamins and handed Xiaomao a few.

"You can't just expect to feel fine after eating nothing. You're the older one you should know better." Second Reality said sighing.

Xiaomao knew better than to argue. Ever since she was little, she had forgotten to eat multiple times. Either she was busy, or she just wasn't hungry.

But one thing Second Reality made sure was that she took her vitamin supplements. She barely took in nutrients so she often became weak to the bone like that.

Her vitamin levels were quite unusual for Li Shen and Nazeeh as well. They had to make sure she ate and took her vitamins everyday.

Now it wasn't that Xiaomao forgot. She merely didn't care as much. Her reasoning was that other people grew much harder than her without any problems so why couldn't she?
What Second Reality had often tried to tell Xiaomao was that no one is the same. Not a single person lived the same life as another. They all felt different levels of emotions and did a level of different things.

But Xiaomao was stubborn. She wouldn't take anything else as an answer.

So Second Reality didn't bother trying as much. He understood her thought process. She was his sister, of course he did.

He put a blanket over her as he watched over her. He let out a audible sigh. Xiaomao was always doing something that could mess up her grand plan.

That's why he was here.

He was the great planner. He was the one that told her when she had to do this and when she shouldn't do this.

In a way, he was a wall and a path.

He revised Xiaomao's plans again, editing some things that had to be changed from Ren's actions today. Telling Xiaomao that it was almost time.

Time for their big plan.

Second Reality let Xiaomao sleep for a few more hours until he sensed something.

He woke her up and turned back into his spiritual form.

"Xiaomao. Wake up. Someone's coming."

Funny how Second Reality's senses were so accurate, because oddly enough a minute later someone was knocking on the door.

Chapter Text

Chapter 12
"Though we need not rush sister. I have more enough time to wait for you. We always...had enough time."
- Genshin.

Xiaomao woke up from Second Reality's constant pestering that someone was going to come at this late hour. Yet she didn't ignore his warning and splashed some water on her face wondering who could it be.

She waited for the knock on the door, after hearing it she slowly walked to the door and opened it.

"Hello?" She asked wondering who it was at this late hour.

"It's me. Maximillius." He said standing on her porch of the dorm holding a torchlight. "The Consort Nari has asked me to summon you. You must meet with the Emperor and Consort Nari on an important matter."

"I see, thank you for telling me. Do I go now?" She asked clarifying what was going to happen to herself.

"If you are ready, then yes." Maximillius said nodding his head he opened the door a little wider to let Xiaomao out.

Xiaomao walked out with her coat and waited for Maximillius. She noticed on the side that Ren was with him as well, leaning on the side of Xiaomao's dorm.

Ren quietly watched her, noticing her face all puffed and red from her episode earlier.
"Your eyes are red." He commented, his gaze stayed on her eyes for excess amount of time.

"Allergies." Xiaomao said her gaze calm. Maximillius began to escort them both to the west side of the palace, where all the consorts lived.

Hearing Xiaomao's excuse Ren said nothing, knowing better to keep quiet as nothing would waver the quiet girl.

This is what I think it is right, Second Reality?

"Yes. Just be patient and everything will go correctly." He responded watching to expression of Ren who kept on staring at Xiaomao.

Second Reality stared at Ren and then suddenly thought, If that bastard had to die. I'd rather it be by my hand.

Xiaomao gave a weird expression and asked Second Reality,

What was that you said?

"Nothing." He grumbled, forgetting that she could hear his thoughts as clearly as he could hear hers.

Ren stopped staring at Xiaomao once he realized he's been caught. He looked away, feeling quite embarrassed, and continued to follow his father's lead.

They finally opened the door, in which Consort Nari and the Emperor were sipping tea over biscuits.

They put their cup down once they saw we arrived. The emperor stood up and gestured to sit down.

Ren and Xiaomao gave a modest bow and sat in those seats. They waited to hear what the emperor would say.

The emperor cleared his voice and began to speak,

"My Consort Nari here have decided to-"

Consort Nari broke him off, "I can speak for myself." She said staring at Aranthor, he frowned at her words but stayed silent.

Sure is same as last time.

"Yeah... atleast Aranthor wasn't as mad as last time either." Second Reality said remembering those early days.

Back then, Consort Nari had interrupted Aranthor multiple times when he was trying to speak for her. Just like this time.

She felt their was no need for Aranthor to speak for her. She was far more capable on speaking for her self.

Last time, Aranthor had a bad reaction to her interruption. After Xiaomao and Ren left after hearing what Consort Nari had wanted, Aranthor then as punishment locked her up in the Quiet Room.

The Quiet Room was a place with no colors. It's entirety was all white. The wallpaper, the chairs and clothes. All white.

If you got sent into the Quiet Room, you had no human interaction. The food you got would be mashed potato's and white pills containing the nutrients in a whole meal.

There were no mirrors at all in the Quiet Room, however that was atleast one of the lowest things people are concerned about.

The only good thing in the Quiet Room was the privacy you got. You had your own bathroom, and could use it whenever you want.

You had a bed as well, and under the bed were 5 random books and a notepad with a pencil.

The books had no cover title, only words. Those words were the only thing that wasn't white in color.
Each person had their own compartment, each sizing around a small apartment room.

But the Quiet Room was different from all prisons. Mind you, the normal criminals who did a Level 1 or 2 crime never set foot in the Quiet Room.

Only the most notorious criminals and insane people recieved sentences to the Quiet Room.

Alright that's enough background information for the Reader. Second Reality you're going to bore if you continue any further.

"Sorry" He mumbled giving apologetic smile.

"Xiaomao, dear I have a proposal for you. Care to hear it?" Consort Nari said with a sharp but kind expression.

Her caramel dipped face contrasting with her white eyes made her look like a majestic beauty.

Little does she know how much more of a majestic beast she would turn to be.

"Go on, Consort Nari" Xiaomao said allowing her to continue.

"Will you be willing to be the replacement of Lady in waiting Airen?"

Xiaomao cleared her throat and began to speak.

"Consort Nari. I respectfully decline this offer."

The silence that came afterwards were the loudest of all, Consort Nari frowned while Ren gave her a puzzled look.

Xiaomao continued to speak, "However, Consort Nari I am willing to be your lady in waiting. But not as a replacement of Lady Airen. I am willing to make you and Lady Airen proud."

Consort Nari couldn't even form words from shock, but slowly she formed a smile.

"I knew you are quite the jewel, Xiaomao." She said continuing, "You won't ever regret this."

Xiaomao gave a nod in return smiling, "I know I won't."

Emperor Aranthor couldn't even form a thought, he was going to think of a punishment for Consort Nari however Xiaomao's words caught him off guard.

Just what kind of person is this Little Miss? He kept thinking that for while.

"Welcome, to the palace Lady Xiaomao." Consort Nari said formally welcoming Xiaomao.

Both Emperor Aranthor and Consort Nari bowed respectfully, Xiaomao did the same in return.

"You are dismissed for now Lady Xiaomao. You start working two days from now." Consort Nari said waving goodbye to Xiaomao and Ren.

They both left the palace with Maximillius leading the way.

"So does that mean I have to start calling you Lady Xiaomao?" Ren said in a joking manner.
"No." She said ending the suggestion off.

At first when she came to this world. She only had one wish and one wish only.

But even after rewinding the world lines and going through 35 more, this being her 36th round she still couldn't fulfill that wish.

Instead now, she decided to not really chase for that dream. She was more on protecting on what's hers.

Maximillius congratulated her through out the walk on being a lady in waiting.

Now that Xiaoamao thought about it, she and Ren were now of the same rank. Which meant she had more responsibilities and things to do.

She mentally groaned, she wanted to act like the trash she was. Seems likes that no one really thinks of her as trash at least anyways.

Xiaomao finally reached her dorm and waved farewell to the two figures outside. Soon they walk away, disappearing in the distance.

Xiaomao sat on her chair, heating some of the leftover food she had. She was thankful to Li Shen, who had given her the food. She always thought homemade food was better than take out anyways.

"How would we even know what take out tastes like. We never did ordered or went to a restaurant."

Yeah I guess. Still don't matter though, homemade food is the best.

Xiaomao took her vitamins as well after the pestering Second Reality forced her to take.

After they finished doing it all, they finally went to Xiaomao's room.

They pulled out the plan from the locked cabinet. It was the same text Ren had glimpsed at.

Do you think in another life that he would read this?

Xiaomao asked Second Reality, but even he didn't have an answer.

"□□□■■, listen to me." He said her name out loud. He was no longer in his spiritual form and was floating infront of Xiaomao, his hands on both of her shoulders.

"Someone will read it. It doesn't have to be Ren, It will be someone else other than me and you."

We can't call ourselves author’s if we don’t have a reader.

"□□□■■ listen. Don't think about those things now. It will mess up the plan. You can't mess the plan up when you use so much time to make it."

■□■. Thank you... for being with me, dear brother.

"Alright that's enough sentiment for me. Let's go to bed." Second Reality mumbled checking some things off on the plan. He wrote a few side notes as well for the future.

Xiaomao and Second Reality planned to stay in bed for these two days, for they didn't want to partake in any hassles. She didn't even have to work at the garden since it was a weekend. The academy was obviously off as well.

And so, just as planned Xiaomao and Second Reality stayed at home with no disturbances and read books while the AC was full on blast.

Sure the bill was going to be high but that was to stress about later.

But then again, her new job surely would be sufficient to pay the bills.

As well as the future events she wanted to create will help her bring the money to her hands, instead of the husky men with horizontal beards.

She just wanted to think about nothing and live lazily while she could.

Chapter Text

Chapter 13
"It is the time you have wasted for your rose that makes your rose so important"
- The Little Prince

Like a blink of a second those two days went faster than the child being burnt in the fire 14 years ago.

Xiaomao and Second Reality slowly stayed slumped on the bed. The alarm beeping, full of extra enthusiasm that no one shared. It kept reminding them that today was a important day.

Sighing, she freshened up, grabbing her coat before leaving the door. She did her daily chores at the garden before finally reporting to the west side of the palace.

She waited patiently after she knocked on the door.

"What a wonderful day, isn't it Xiaomao?" Second Reality said, his lack of enthusiasm showing.

Yes indeed brother. What a wonderful and delightful day.

This lady is taking a long time to answer, doesn't she have like flipping hundreds of ladies in waiting?

"Yeah. I think Aranthor fired most of them though, since apparently they were annoying."

Oh? That's new.

Finally, the door opened infront of Xiaomao revealing Consort Nari with three different ladies in waiting. They were probably the only ones remaining.

All three of those ladies in waiting were Lady Airen's lackeys, all of them gave off a kind and welcoming smile.

However, Xiaomao could see their two face expression clearly, under the curls of their smiling face she could see them balling their fists and glare.

Consort Nari cleared her throat, ending all glares from the three women. "Ladies, this is Xiaomao in case you don't know. She's going to be my new Lady in Waiting. Please welcome her."

At her command they gave a forced, but respectful bow to Xiaomao, she returned it with the same amount of kindness.

Consort Nari turned to Xiaomao, "I believe that I have selected you to work in the library. It's a easy job, just act like a librarian. Just make sure no books are stolen or lost."

"I see, thank you for your graciousness and kindness Consort Nari. Am I to report there right away?" Xiaomao replied, her act clear of no flaws.

"Yes, if you may. It was nice chatting with you Xiaomao. May greatness be with you."

Xiaomao nodded in return, and slowly walked to the library.

She had known where it was from her last visit. It was during the time when she was caring for the Lady Nari, she often dazed at the amount of books she saw there.

She saw Second Reality wasn't next to her and chuckled mentally, what a noddy little child.

Xiaomao dropped her bag on the barren table, it was a luxurious library. Xiaomao liked it's quiet nature with the exception of the birds tweeting or the squirrels scurrying.

Second Reality teleported next to her sitting on the table, as his spirit form.

"Guess what I heard..." He said slyly.

What.

"The ladies were talking about us." Second Reality said, his grin filing up his whole face.

Oh? That means everything is going according to plan.

"Yes indeed sister. We are finally getting closer to the good part."

Ay what did they say exactly about us? Xiaomao said sitting on the chair now relaxed.

"They were arguing with Lady Nari on how we got to be a lady in waiting. Then they brought up how we couldn't save Airen." Second Reality said floating around the library, looking at the variety of books.

Xiaomao glanced at a few books and flipped through them muttering, "I see, just a bunch of blasphemy. Luckily on our side though."

Thus Xiaomao started working as a humble lady in waiting, most people now knew her as a librarian.

She like this job, simple and quiet. Not a hassle at all, all she had to do was pour tea for the Consort during lunchtime and bring novels to the Consort.

Honestly it got kinda boring by the fourth day, by then Xiaomao had read most of the books in the library. As a result she just wandered around decorating the library.

Today was finally the day that one part of Xiaomao's plan would work. She was going to spread some rumors about herself with the help of Second Reality. This was the straw that would be pulled from the haystack. It will destroy everything.

How wonderful.

Second Reality nodded to Xiaomao giving her a thumbs up, he soon floated transparently out the door.

Xiaomao crossed her legs on the table watching everything through a blue projection she made with her powers.

She observed Second Reality floating around the palace, looking for the ladies in waiting.

Second Reality floated near them, and hid behind a pillar.

For the next few minutes he listened to what they were talking about.

"Annoying. That little girl has such a strong pull over Lady Nari that we have to clean in her stead." The lady in waiting said kicking the rocks in the garden, showing her hatred for Xiaomao.

The other ladies in waiting nodded, the one with black hair spoke up, "Atleast we get extra money. I could buy more hair pins from the vendors."

The third lady in waiting who was the most quiet amongst them spoke, "I heard the girl was in an abusive household. That's why she has bandages all over her arms."

Hmm? This was interesting. Xiaomao has thought she had covered her bandages quite clearly. To think that the quiet lady in waiting saw-
Oh well. It wasn't much of a deal. It's not like it wasn't normal. Everyone in the palace had some sort of scar.

Xiaomao snapped her fingers, signaling it was time for Second Reality to start the plan.

|□■□■ ■□■□ Level 10??: Activated|

Soon after activating ■□■□ Second Reality disappeared into the lady in waiting's body.

He coughed.

The ladies in waiting stared at him. Or her. Whatever you want to call it. I don't care.

Main thing was that Second Reality was successful in possessing the lady in waiting.

The red haired lady in waiting placed a hand on the possessed lady in waiting.

"Are you ok Paola?" She said concerned after hearing him cough.

"Shoot. What's her name???"

Bro I don't know?? I didn't learn their names? Just listen to their conversation and just add the piece and leave. Xiaomao said facepalming.

"Yes I am, thank you for asking..." He said stopping middway.

From the time she spent at the library, she hadn't gotten the chance to learn the names of her fellow ladies in waiting. But then again, she didn't care to learn their names.

"Alright. Thanks I guess."

Xiaomao stared at the projection, the ladies in waiting they were now gossiping about random flower pots.

Do ladies love to be annoying?

"Aren't you a Lady as well." Second Reality said with a coy tone.

Yeah. But like do I gossip?

"No. I guess."

Alright that's enough chit chat I'm tired of them talking about flower pots.

Second Reality immediately got his act up, his changes of emotions concerned the ladies in waiting on how fast they changed.

"Paola. You sure you're ok?" The red head said examining Paola unaware of the possession.

The black haired girl huffed and responded, "Sachi she's probably tired from doing so much work. This is all that Xiaomao girl's fault. You know what? I'm going to give her a piece of my mind."

"No Kira. It'll just give us more problems. Unlike you I need this job alright? But you are right this is all Xiaomao's fault. She should help us with the work no matter what." Sachi grumbled crossing her arms.

"...she's right. This is all Xiaomao's fault." Second Reality said as Paola.

"Hmm Paola..?" Kira then looked at the pale quiet pink haired girl.

"Besides, wasn't it her who killed our head lady Airen?" Paola said, gazing at Sachi and Kira.

Felling like they were stabbed in the gut, their faces broke. Their eyes scrunched up and they balled their fists.

It was weird to Xiaomao how they had the same actions.

I guess this is companionship.

"Lady Airen... but wasn't it that Airen stabbed herself?" Sachi said looking away from Paola.

"Are you kidding me? You actually believe that crap? This all started when that girl started working as a apothecary." Kira said nearly yelling.

Kira continued, "Lady Airen would never choose to die. She was the kindest and happiest lady alive. It must have been that girl who brainwashed her. What a terrible person."

Sachi mumbled something inaudible under her breath. The others looked at her to continue, "I hate her."
"There's a simple solution for people we hate right Sachi?" Kira said tilting her head and looking down on everyone. Her uncanny smile creeped Second Reality, but he stayed silent.

"How should we do it? Dear Paola? Knife or hand?" Kira said giggling now and licking her lips.

Second Reality's eyes widened, his hands balling into fists ready to punch her to Neverland.

Hey, hey calm down.

Remember who you are now?

■□■ listen.

Second Reality unfurled his fists calming down, he then began to speak.

"Killing her wouldn't be enough. Let's show the whole world instead on how much of a killer she is."

Second Reality said with a sick grin, the ladies in waiting smiled at her and patted her head.

"Right as always Paola. You always have the best idea." Sachi said nodding with Kira.

Alright you can come back.

|□■□■ ■□■□ Level ?? Deactivated|

Soon, Second Reality teleported infront of Xiaomao. Her frowned and crossed her arms in his physical form.

"Well that was boring."

"What'd you expect?" Xiaomao said, closing the projection and staring at Second Reality.

Second Reality frowned more, "I don't know? Maybe to expect them to be as nice as last round?"

"How funny." Xiaomao said in a monotone voice.

Second Reality went back to his spiritual form and floated around the room. Bored, he asked Xiaomao for her phone.

What for? Xiaomao said fishing her phone out of her pocket.

"I'm bored." Second Reality said now doing backflips in the air.

Xiaomao handed him her phone. He scrolled through Pinterest aimlessly.

Xiaomao flipped through the pages of a random book. Finally she put the book down.

"I knew I was forgetting something." Xiaomao said muttering walking out the library.

She stealthily moved behind the ladies in waiting and walked towards the academy.

"Why are we going to the Academy?" Second Reality asked, floating beside Xiaomao.

It was written on our plan. Going to the academy will help bring the rumor higher.

"I see..."

Xiaomao opened the door to the academy, but when she did everyone froze upon seeing her.

"Xi-xiaomao?" Matsuri said, her voice filled with fear now.

"What are you doing here??" Ren asked blocking Xiaomao's path.

Xiaomao looked over Ren, her expression not changing as she saw what happened.

"That's Paul's friend, what's his name again? ... Jake?" Xiaomao asked not bothered at the sight of the blood.

Ren finally moved out of her way revealing the scene to Xiaomao.

The body of Jake lay lifeless on the ground. The puddle of blood staining the marble floor pink, act as evidence on the sin Matsuri and Ren committed.

Xiaomao sighed, she walked over to the body and gave it a slight kick. It didn't stir from the kick, confirming that Jake was dead.

She then sat on a near chair, crossing her legs and putting a lemon flavored lollipop up to her lips.

"So," Xiaomao asked letting out another sigh and looked at Matsuri and Ren, "What happened?"

Chapter Text

Chapter 14
"We die a little and live a lot. It's life."
- dunno I made it up

As Matsuri and Ren shared what happened, Xiaomao noticed the corpse of Jake twitching.

"Ugh come on you didn't even kill the guy right." She said sighing and walking over to him.

Matsuri and Ren paused, they didn't know who to stare at. They eventually left to stare at the twitching body.

"Good grief I always gotta do all the work." Xiaomao sighed as she placed her hand infront of the twitching body. She then continued, "You made the poor guy in a seizure. Nice."

|Healing of the Heart Lvl ???|

Soon Jake began to cough violently, spitting out spit everywhere.

After making a spitting and smashing mess, Jake rose up, sitting on the floor.

He stared at Ren who held the pencil in his hand now, with menacing glare.

Xiaomao wondered what Jake did to be mutually stabbed in the chest a couple of times, but she didn't ask.

She'd rather not run into their business. As one of her main rules, ignorance is curse, and a blessing. Think whatever of this, it depends on the situation.

"Want a muffin, Jake?" Xiaomao asked offering a special muffin to him. She took a few more from her pocket, shoving them in her mouth as if they were more of a necessity than a want.

She gave Jake a few more muffins and ignored the pleas from Ren and Matsuri.

Finishing the cupcake, Jake let out a loud yawn, leaning to his back.

"Alright, come on" Xiaomao said standing up, gesturing to the door. She walked infront of Jake making him somehow follow her in his dazed state of mind.

Ren and Matsuri followed them both, not fazed from Xiaomao's weird behavior.

They soon followed her to Naveen's office, Xiaomao opened the door, not caring to stop and mutter a greeting to Naveen.

"I'm heading to the basement to do something. Don't disturb me."

Naveen didn't mutter a reply to Xiaomao, however once he saw Ren, it felt as of he was a changed man. His eyes brightend up and his smile widen.

Literal sparkles were around Naveen from his smiling to Ren.

"My saviors friend!!" He said bringing tea to Ren. "Welcome, welcome. How are you?"

Matsuri stared at Ren from hearing the unusual greeting. "You know him or something?"

He mentally facepalmed, hearing her response. "Something like that. Now, come on let's go follow the little mouse."

The way down to the basement was dark and cramped. But the inside of basement? It was nearly larger than the whole office itself.

The best outlook for the basement was that it looked like a underground hospital.

Surgical tables were lined in columns, metal incisors were all packaged in plastic.

Ren and Matsuri fell to the center, where a bed lie which Jake was now strapped to the bed.

Jake was laying in a unconscious state, while Xiaomao began sliding down a thin pipe through Jake's nose.
Xiaomao's hands were covered in long blue gloves. Her mouth covered by two masks now, her usual black one and a blue surgical mask.

She gestured to Ren and Matsuri not to come in any further. She didn't intend them to see this, but oh well.

"Yo SR, how long till I can go home and eat pudding." Xiaomao asked Second Reality, while adding a suction tool on the tubes.

Just after this procedure and after you say something to Ren and Matsuri.

Xiaomao sighed loudly, pushing the suction to remove all the medicine she stuffed inside Jake.

She put roughly 25mg of medicine in a muffin. Jake ate around 20 muffins. What a big back he was indeed.

She was rushing only for the fact that Jake began to dry at the mouth. Xiaomao didn't want Jake to die this early anyway, he was of some use later in the future.

She was halfway of the purification process, and she dumped all the toxic liquid she flushed out of his stomach.

She pumped one last time and fed him a painkiller.

"He should be fine." Xiaomao said muttering to Second Reality for a confirmation.

"Man...she's a pyscho." Ren said baffled after he watched Xiaomao flush and pump the stomach of poor Jake.

The air was putrid now, in need of a great wafting. She slapped Jake's cheek twice to wake him up.

"Oi, wake up kid." She said stripping off her gloves and second mask.

Jake mumbled and woke up, Xiaomao took him out the basement with Ren and Matsuri following.

"Oki dokie Jake, have fun byeeee." She said slamming the door on his face.

Jake then disappeared off to who knows where. It doesn't matter where he went.

Ren and Matsuri at this point was drinking tea with Naveen.
Xiaomao sat next to Ren and leaned on the sofa. Sighing she took a cup of tea. Today was going to be a very long day.

Slowly she caught the stares Ren and Matsuri was giving her and raised her palm to stop them.

"I didn't do anything bad." She crossed her legs and munched on a homemade cookies.

Ren rolled his eyes, not believing a single word she said.

"Whatever it is, I'm not listening. I'm too tired from following you around. Goodbye." Ren said pulling Matsuri from the sofa and walking out the office.

Chapter Text

Chapter 15
"'Will you tell me who hurt you?"
I imagine saying, You.
"I did it to myself."'
- Song of Achilles

Ren and Matsuri walked halfway out the room until she whispered something to him. His expression changed, with his smile disappearing and his lips pursed.

"Actually, I do have something to ask of you. Do you have a moment?" Ren said walking over to Xiaomao.

"Hey things are still in order right?" Xiaomao asked Second Reality to confirm.

Second Reality nodded looking toward Ren, everything is still on track.

Ren pulled her over to the side, towering over the short girl. Staring at her like a hawk, he clenched his fists.

"Have you heard the rumors?"

Acting puzzled, Xiaomao gave Ren a look of bewilderment.

"What rumors?"

He gave her a sharp look and sighed, placing his hand on his face rubbing it hard.

"That you used magic to hypnotize me. That's why I supposedly talk to you. Oh and there's another rumor that you killed Lady Airen, but we all know that's not true."

Xiaomao yawned, her expression not even changing. "Do you think I hypnotized you?"

Ren shook his head no, crossing his arms getting impatient.

"Why aren't you doing anything about it? Don't you want to stop these rumors!?" He exclaimed, "stop acting like these rumors are nothing but a grain of salt to you."

The girl breathed in sharply, and brought her palm to face Ren.

"Ren. I do not care for the rumors. If you believe they are fake, they are fake. I do not care what they believe. If people wasted their time on useless rumors where would society come to be."

"Well that's rubbish!" He said walking away from her.

"I don't care," she said. After noticing him walk to the exit she called out, "Make sure Matsuri gets home alright."

In response he raised a hand, letting her know that saying it wasn't necessary.

After his silhouette disappeared, she bid farewell to Naveen and walked off to her own home.

Waking up tommorow, she sluggishly got up to do her usual garden work. Completing that with no complications she headed to the academy.

Walking towards the academy she could hear many mumbles and whispers beside her.

However she couldn't stop grinning, which was weird to the outsiders. Seeing her grin made them all believe she was going to hypnotize them too, resulting in the crowd to scurry off.

She sat in her usual spot, infront of Matsuri. She started overhearing all the conversations around her.

"Oh my god, that's her. I heard she's friends with Ren. No way that's possible, Ren hasn't considered anyone a friend for years."

"Hmm? I didn't know about that." She said out loud to Second Reality.

Yeah, maybe a new variable. Second Reality muttered staring over to Ren who came to the classroom.

Ren didn't look her way, which was totally fine by Xiaomao. She wasn't in the mood to talk to anyone at all.

More and more of the rumors could be heard, but honestly she didn't give a shit. People talk and walk. Xiaomao just let the words go pass her ears.

She looked around, feeling the people staring her down. She grinned to herself, and stared at you.

You ready Second Reality?

"You bet I am," He said putting his hands together.

|Mind Manipulation Lvl ?? Activated|

Thin purple smoke began to cloud the classroom. None of the students noticing, slowly they began to daze and rest their heads on the table.

"What the fuck? Where the flip is the purple smoke coming from??" Ren shouted out, he was outrageous.

Not only did was he already annoyed that Xiaomao didn't care for her self image, but now students were dropping to the table, probably because of the purple smoke.

What on earth? Why is Ren still awake?? Oi didn't you use the strongest smoke?

"Yeah, calm down. Probably a new variable or something. Just play it out." Second Reality said.

If you say so.

Quietly, Xiaomao placed her head on the table and pretended to go unconscious. Ren walked around, baffled.

He stormed around the classroom as if that would bring any answer to what was going on.

| I wonder where Xiaomao came from. Wasn't she a commoner from the village? Does that mean she's a thief? She can't have been a healer with being a lowly Rose member. Maybe she stole a relic and used it on Ren? Perhaps that's the reason of his unusual behavior.|

Second Reality imported the information to everyone's memories scurrying them in open areas.

Slowly Xiaomao took away all the purple smoke, letting all the students wake up.

Like zombies, all the students sat up cracking their back as they do so.

Avoiding Ren's piercing gaze, slowly she slipped out of the academic chambers, not caring whether or not the professor noticed. The professor couldn't blame her for leaving since he wasn't even here yet.

She stealthily ran to her dorm, closing it shut.

"Finally, we're done with that." Xiaomao exclaimed plopping on her bed.

Second Reality transformed out of his spiritual form into his physical form, laying on the bed next to Xiaomao but immediately looked to the side. Silently, he went back to his spiritual form.

"Done with what? Care to share?" Ren said, demanding, standing in front of Xiaomao's bed. Crossing his hands, he carried a scrunched face with pouty lips.

Xiaomao stood up from the bed, "Wait, what now?" She turned to look at Second Reality with a puzzled expression and immediately turned back to Ren. "How did you get in?" '

"That's not important at the moment." He crossed his arms, and giving her a pleading stare he said, "Answers Xiaomao, I need answers. I don't like being kept in the dark and lied to. Tell me what's going on, I can help shoulder whatever it is."

Without a second thought, he placed his hand on the trunk of her shoulder, trying comfort her in any way.

Xiaomao was at a loss of words, not only did she have no idea of how he came in, she didn't know what to tell him. She knew it wasn't possible to open the thunder in her heart, not when her main goal was to ■□■□ ■□■ ■□■□ □■□ ■□. She had to keep quiet, the truth will have to wait.

So she decided to finally speak, letting the words flow in whatever path they fell. "Well, it's just too much to unpack." She confessed truthly, beginning with that. She paused to see whether or not Ren would reply, but he didn't.

"So from the start, you already know I didn't kill Lady Airen. That case is clear, I had no side strings, but that's the thing. I didn't have any side strings in the rumors either, also why on the flora soul would I dare to make rumors for myself?"

Delaying for a second she continued after no reply from Ren, "The purple smoke, I did have something to do with. I was conducting an experiment to see if it could provide a boost in luck. One of the voices in my head convinced me, so you definitely cannot blame me."

Xiaomao crossed her legs and stared at Ren, his face was unreadable at the moment. She knew she wouldn't be able to hold on much longer, needing to know his internal thoughts she activated her ability.

|Mind Manipulation Lvl ?? : Activated|
|Mind Manipulation Lvl ?? : Deactivated|

Xiaomao gave a sharp glance to Second Reality, What are you doing? Let me activate the power!

Second Reality spoke in a quiet tone,"Now is not the time for this. Use your brain."

Xiaomao frowned silently but stopped arguing, she then stared at Ren trying to unravel his internal thoughts.

Finally after what felt like an eternity Ren spoke up. His tone dropped to a whisper that carried more weight than his anguish.

"Xiaomao." He said beginning, leaving a pause to recollect his thoughts. "Is this what you think of me?"

"...What?" Xiaomao blinked, too stunned from the harsh tone in his voice. She couldn't understand why *this* was the thing he decided to say.

"Is this what you think of me!?" He exclaimed loudly, standing directly in front of her.

His voice rose now, ragged and wounded, carrying a stabbing tone with his words. "You think I'm just some noble's son? Some tool who'll nod off and say, "Yes ma'am, yes ma'am," while you feed lies to me? I'm not stupid Xiaomao, I know that you just spurted up nonsense right now."

Staggering, he pointed to Xiaomao and in a harsh whisper he said, "I know damn well you aren't crazy Xiaomao. So quit acting like one."

He paused to catch his breath, then spoke in his raw form, his voice hoarse, not from rage or anger- but from betrayal. "How dare you Xiaomao. Matter of fact, how dare you!"

His heart beat wildly, continuing he said, "Was this all I meant to you? Just this pawn you tossed around when the story gets tough?" His eyes, now red rimmed, blazed under his wrath of betrayal. He met Xiaomao with a glance of disgust and disappointment.

He wasn't going to comfort her now. Not at this point.

It was far too late.

He stared at her, searching for any answer her darken dull eyes could shine. Not finding anything. He took a deep breath.

"TELL ME XIAOMAO OF THE FLOWER CLAN, IS THIS WHAT FRIENDSHIP MEANS TO YOU?"

Xiaomao couldn't move, it was as if she was frozen in place. Her right hand trembled as her nails from her left dug deep into her skin. Her eyes filled with terror froze in place as well. She didn't know what was going on.

She couldn't say a word.

"I thought you were different Xiaomao, and you know what was the worst part? I really thought you cared. I guess it was my fault at the start believing that."

Ren's voice went back to normal, his empty cold voice echoed across the dorm room.

"Do me this one thing Xiaomao, unless you want to truly say what happened speak. Otherwise, don't bother to come speak with me at all."

Ren said, finishing off his last strand of loose emotion. He waited for a good minute, noticing Xiaomao's quiet response.

Breathing heavily after seeing she wouldn't respond, he left the building. Leaving Xiaomao inside.

Xiaomao stood there silently watching the silhouette of Ren disappear. Her knees buckled from the cold pressure that spiraled across her body.

Kneeling on the ground, Second Reality sat next to Xiaomao.

It was for the best. All part of your plan, remember? He said, transmitting the message telepathically.

"Is it though? What if I made a mistake back then? Is it going to work out?" Xiaomao whispered in a hoarse tone.

Yes, we both looked over it. Our lives have not gone all in vain.

Second Reality wrapped a blanket around Xiaomao, she slowly leaned on bed frame and fell into a deep slumber.

Second Reality tucked her in, floating over to the desk area. He stared at her in position, sighing indirectly after thinking.

It was nearly time.

Chapter Text

Chapter 16

"The weak fear happiness itself. They can harm themselves on cotton wool. Sometimes they are wounded even by happiness"

-Osamu Dazai

It was now nearly 3 days after the incident of the purple smoke. Currently all those students have been rambling about those weird thoughts they had. Unknown to them on how they received them, they wondered many questions about Xiaomao. 

All this commotion was so great that even the Emperor was caught up to speed. 

"Imperial Majesty, may I come in." Maximillius said, knocking on the door. He was currently working, his badge and suit in tip top form. 

"Come in Maximillius, what old friend have you got?" 

Maximillius went inside, taking off his hat and bowed. He walked to Emperor Aranthor's desk, placing a thin file of paper. 

"These are the things that have been trending with the people." He crossed his arms waiting for Emperor Aranthor's expression. 

The emperor faintly touched the file, "Is there anything we need to erase? Any Code Black?"

"Not at the moment Imperial Majesty." 

The emperor huffed, "Then Maximillius, have you just come to tell me what the latest tea was? 

Maximillius suppressed his laughter, coughing to hide any discern Aranthor might suspect. 

"Why who taught you the Sunflower lingo ey?" 

The Imperial Majesty chuckled, "Why it was Yumi who did." He crossed his arms, questioning. "How could you tell that I learnt this majestic form of speaking?" 

"It's just not expected of you Aranthor." Maximillius laughed nervously, rubbing the back of his head. 

"Imperial Majesty." Aranthor corrected, he gave Maximillius a sharp glance."Remember our terms Maximillius, you may refer to me Imperial Majesty at all times except when we are in public." 

"My apologies, Imperial Majesty." Maximillius bowed, biting his tongue. He knew it was far to early for the informal tone. 

He just messed up. 

"Back to what I was saying," Maximillius gestured to file. "There has been some speculation on a young lady. You might have heard of her." 

After a small pause Maximillius changed his response. "Matter of fact, I believe you met Little Miss." 

"Ohh! Little Miss, the schizophrenic! Ah yes I remember her." The emperor said with a little snap. He remembered the girl that was talking to herself in the aquarium. 

Maximillius scrunched his eyes in confusion, then responded in a nonchalant manner. "I'm not even going to bother." 

He continued, not letting time be at waste, "Rumors have been created that Xiaomao is not someone who we think. People have come to believe that Xiaomao was sent from the heavens to decieve us." 

Aranthor hummed processing all the information. "Well? What's the people want?" 

"They come to you asking for a trial." 

Emperor Aranthor groaned, "These people..." He muttered, "So much for a peaceful day." 

"What are my orders, Imperial Majesty." 

"You give the people what they want. Give them a trial." Aranthor said rubbing his temples. It seemed like he was very unhappy about this decision. But who cares? He was emperor he should learn that things won't always go his way. 

Just because he was emperor didn't mean he was the one who chose every decision. 

Soon Maximillius gathered the battale for the trial. 

Eunuchs were told to surround Xiaomao's dorm. Keeping watch to see her whereabouts. 

Xiaomao also understood what was going on, earlier when she visited the doctor, Naveen he completely ignored her and left the building as soon as he saw her. She didn't understand then, but now she knew. 

There was a gag order going around. 

The orders never really mentioned directly, were made by the people. Once there was even a faint thing someone could suspect, the person would be considered an outcast. 

Even with enough evidence to show that the victim was innocent, it's of great difficulty to go back to the ranks of society. 

Xiaomao sighed then called out, Second Reality. 

"What is it?" You respond floating admist the air. 

How many more days till then? 

Second Reality brought up 3 fingers, gesturing it was 3 days till then. 

She sighed once more, nibbling on a piece of pocky. 

She had already reviewed plans for the weekend and completed all her chores. Consort Nari as well dismissed her tasks for the week. She had nothing and no where to go. 

She had already made arrangements if she were to be put in a holding cell, having all her files and notebooks stuffed inside her clothes. 

Stretching, for one last time Xiaomao got up. 

Little did she knew, was that the eunuchs just recieved an order. So just before Xiaomao could do anything else, all the eunuchs broke in and captured Xiaomao. 

"Oh my-" She said, her eyes showed of great bewilder as she tried to move away from the clutches of the eunuch. 

"I order you not to move. Xiaomao, I hereby declare you as a fugitive of Law and of the Flower Palace. Adjourned to law, you must adhere bid to a trial." 

A voice from behind the eunuchs spoke, slowly as the eunuchs moved aside Xiaomao could recognize the face to Maximillius. 

Cracking his knuckles, he spoke without hearing Xiaomao.

"Knock her out." 

Loosing conscious, Xiaomao was lifted from the ground on to one of the eunuchs shoulder. Her slumped body lay motionless while the unnamed eunuch walked out her dorm. 

Just about a while later, Xiaomao found herself infront of a court.

She awoke to find herself tied to a chair, unable to move. She didn't even bother to speak, as a large piece of cloth was stuffed in her mouth. Swallowing it later on for digestion nor spitting it out would be not inevitable, but not possible. 

"Well well, if it isn't Little Miss." Emperor Aranthor chuckled crossing his arms. 

Xiaomao looked around the court. At the front Imperial Majesty acted as head judge. To his side was Maximillius as his working deputy officer. 

Three eunuchs worked as writers, recording everything that occurred. Xiaomao wondered if they were to record if she let out a little cough. If only she were able to test that theory. 

What a shame. 

Ren stood on the opposite side, standing as a witness to her unnamed crimes. He stood there due to his father's request, truly he wouldn't dare try harm Xiaomao. Even if it meant through lies or deception.

He would take care of her his way.

Xiaomao finally noticed who was her line of defense. From catching her eye Xiaomao was baffled that she would be speaking up for her. 

She honestly thought she wouldn't have cared. 

The person standing as defense was Matsuri. One of Xiaomao's cherished companions. But as cherished she was, Matsuri didn't share the same amount of enthusiasm. 

Little did Xiaomao know, and till this day she would never know about this. Now Reader, I must say as Second Reality, as Xiaomao's brother that it was I that blocked this piece of information to Xiaomao. 

It would grief her with unbearable pain if she knew. 

Matsuri was Xiaomao's line of defense because of Ren. She didn't want to be here. Ren gave her a pouch of gold coins in order for her to stand as defense. Even then Matsuri still hesitated only accepting after a huge argument with Ren. 

You see why I would never want her to know. Right? 

Matsuri smiled Xiaomao whispering laced with pure kindness, "Don't worry Xiaomao. I will throw hands if you get sentenced to anything. You are too kind and naive to so such a thing anyway." 

Xiaomao nodded in return not caring about the sandwiched insult that was flung at her. 

A loud knock was heard from the courtroom doors. Acknowledging who it was the Emperor permissed the eunuchs to come in. 

With the eunuchs, came up two bruised traitors. 

Li Shen and Naveen.

Shocked that they were brought to Flower Palace in such a bloody state, Xiaomao could help but stare with such widened eyes. 

The two traitors were thrown to the side welcomed to punishment aligned with their false daughter. After the two men had been discovered after the first rumors Xiaomao was upheld for, more investigation was done to the family. 

Trumpets blared, sounding the beginning of the trial. 

From the windows, around three Dreamless Azure men climbed up. They stood next to the Emperor, not daring to move an inch. 

"To begin the starting of this trial Miss Xiaomao, I would like to have you answer a few questions," Emperor Aranthor then motioned to the eunuchs to release the gag from her mouth. 

After the gag was removed, Xiaomao took a deep breath and gave one last look to Second Reality. 

"Starting off, the charges you have recieved is that allegedly you are not who you say you are. Many of the citizens are concerned for their security that you came to decieve the heavens." 

Imperial Majesty took a breath, "Question number 1: Is your name really Xiaomao?" 

Xiaomao automatically answered, "Yes" 

One of the Dreamless Azure answered right after, "Gray zone. Truthful but as deceiving at the same time." 

Emperor Aranthor noted something down but paid no response to the Dreamless Azure. His ability emanated throughout the whole courtroom. He could tell the state of every 21 people's aura. 

"Question number 2: What is your date of blooming?" 

She responded, feeling deep down something was going to be off, "June 19" 

"Gray zone again." Spoke the same Dreamless Azure, this time he was backed up by his fellow colleagues who also found a gray zone. 

Emperor Aranthor scrunched his eyebrows thinking to himself, a person can't have multiple birthdays can they? How can this be... 

Just who is this Little Miss?

"How splendid, that was just a while back. Question number 3: Who are your parents?" 

Speaking a bit too quickly, she responded "Nazeeh and Li Shen." 

The Dreamless Azure answered in return, "Red. This is incorrect and deceiving." 

"Let me ask again. Xiaomao of the Flower Clan. Who are your parents, I assume you know of course." The Imperial Majesty said uncrossing his arms. His legs were lifted, now to be on top of each other letting the Emperor be at ease and comfortable. 

Xiaomao glanced Li Shen and Nazeeh unable to speak. 

Understanding this, Li Shen took herself to the stand. 

"Brother, may I speak?" She said softly despite her pains. 

"If you think now is the time Li Shen you are mistaken. Now is not the time to be calling me that." He said bitterly, with a faith tone of belonging.

Consort Suki glanced at Li Shen giving her a subtle faint nod. 

"Just let me speak. Will you hear me through?" Li Shen pleaded, her eyes glistening with shame, forgiveness, and hope. 

Nazeeh placed a hand on Li Shen's shoulder, the startled lady glanced at Nazeeh. The man who cared for none, was beginning to show comfort. And even if she knew it was all for Xiaomao, she still accepted it. 

"Go on, but make it quick." The emperor said feigning his disgust towards her. 

"The truth is, Lady Suki and Emperor Aranthor are the true parents of Xiaomao Lui Jiken." 

The crowd went silent, the silence crawled into the crevices of time, freezing everything with it. Nothing moved, no one could. Not with the continuous shock. 

After a moment, a Dreamless Azure spoke up, 

"The absolute truth. Pure green." 

Silence roared, no one could believe her. But from the Dreamless Azure confirming it was the truth, they had no idea what to feel. 

Specks of words flew everywhere, ensuing chaos. 

"She's the princess?" 

"The lost heir?"

"I knew she was the princess she was such a kind soul."

Matsuri stared at Xiaomao with a moment of panic, shock, and feigned acceptance. 

"Amazing, who knew I had befriended a princess." 

Ren stood on the opposite side, completely frozen from shock. He couldn't help but glare that he didn't know her true identity dealing with extra work that was never intended for him. He was hurt, dealing with the loss of trust from her believing even for a little bit she would have trusted him. 

"SILENCE. Order in court!" Emperor Aranthor yelled, banging his gavel. 

Waiting for the court to be silent, he finally spoke again. 

"Li Shen, I don't know who you think you are but you cannot speak merely just because you want to. You understand that on the day of the fire. It was you who brought me my child, the child who died in the fire. Xiaomao is not my child." 

Nazeeh spoke up defending Li Shen, "Aranthor, you were the one who brought us here. Don't expect us to nice about it when you accuse our daughter to be a criminal." 

Aranthor laughed, "Your daughter? Li Shen just confirmed that Xiaomao is no daughter of yours." 

Xiaomao stood up, Matsuri immediately holding her back, "Blood doesn't bring family Emperor, not for me. Blood is nothing but a sign that inside the human body is just scars to bleed from. Nazeeh has been a far better father than I could ever have from blood." 

She continued, finally sitting down, "Surely if you were my father, I would have chosen a pack of Venus Flytrap than you if you had acted like that." 

"Outrageous, you hear me? You better hope you aren't my daughter because as soon as I find out, you and your wretched, pathetic, traitorous family can leave this kingdom." 

The Emperor yelled, not afraid to speak in his ugly tongue. Consort Suki sat within the audience with her lips pursed. 

Maximillius whispered something to the Emperor, to which he smiled greatly. 

"Yes, yes. That's an amazing idea." 

Emperor Aranthor stood up, walking toward Xiaomao. He cut open all the ropes and brought her to the front. 

"If you really are my daughter, then the spider lily should emanate once the power is unleashed." 

Standing in the middle, Xiaomao watched as Beast Asterism surround her.  

Four flowers surrounded her, all representing the Beast Asterism. The Spider Lily on the front, The Black Dahlia on the bottom, The Julliette Rose on the left, and The Romeo Rose to the right.

Then one member of each flower chanted, each following an ancient language 欺瞞 or Giman. 

While the Dreamless Azure chanted, a eunuch dropped flower petals. The flower petals were not from a singular flower, they varied to all flowers ever. 

Slowly, the petals of the spider lily glowed, levitating in the air. They circled around her, finally stopping to turn into a flower crown. 

Immediately, people roared out to Xiaomao. Mostly due to shock that it was really Xiaomao. 

Xiaomao was the true heir to the throne of the Flower Kingdom. 

"It's her" 

"The crown princess" 

"Xiaomao?" 

Everyone around her was energetic. Xiaomao was pulled to the front by Lady Suki to be embraced to a tight hug. Everything was running so quickly Xiaomao, and myself nearly got confused. 

Emperor Aranthor changed his attitude completely, pretending his hatred for Xiaomao never existed. 

"My dear daughter, I knew it was you." He said walking over to Lady Suki, he patted Xiaomao's arm. 

Xiaomao ignored his words, and faced Consort Suki. She smiled at her and put a hairpin inside her hair. 

"My, Xiaomao will you let me finally see your pretty face?" 

"Well I-" She begun to say, but before she could continue, loud vibrations moved through the marble wall. 

Electric charges zapped the wooden floor. And if air had a visible embodiment, it felt as if the figure of air shifted, splintering throughout her whole peripheral vision. Outlines doubled, blinking in and out. 

Lady Suki pulled Xiaomao back in a defensive manner, "Stay back Xiaomao for me," 

Emperor Aranthor immediately transformed his walking stick, turning it into a staff. He immediately activated it, creating a spherical orb inside the courtroom. 

All the Dreamless Azure members inside ran to position, creating a strong shield protecting everyone inside. 

|Verity Pulse of Asterism Lvl ?? : Activated |

"Xiaomao, member of the Spider Lily clan. Changer of paths, and outlander of this world. You are not welcome here anymore." Spoke the Asterism, their booming voice echoing throughout the room. 

|■□■□■|

More glitches appeared, creating sparks of light. Vision flickered creating tunnels of darkness. People panicked, screams in the background as Emperor Aranthor tried to assess the situation. 

"■p□■□ror ■□■ a■l t■□e ■ou ■□■□■ed us. ■o□ dare ■□■. Y■u ■il■ ■■■!!" 

Ren ran over to Maximillius who began to destroy the rifts that grew on the sphere. Seeing Ren run over, Matsuri copied his move and begun helping remove the rifts. 

Xiaomao silently moved away from Consort Suki and signaled to Second Reality. 

Now

Second Reality nodded and placed his hands together. 

|Reality Manipulation Lvl ?? : Activated|

Xiaomao placed her hands together as well, carefully taking a seal out of her pocket. 

|Roses in Diguise Lvl ¿?¿ : Activated|

|Blossom of Writer's Intuition Lvl ? : Activated|

As if time slowed down, the glitches froze. Everyone stopped moving, including Xiaomao. 

Finally a faint glowing light emerged from inside of Xiaomao. 

Think whatever you what about this, but to 'name' this light it would best be called Xiaomao's soul. 

Her whispery and flowy soul gracefully moved swiftly from inside Xiaomao's body. 

The soul of Xiaomao followed Second Reality, rewriting the world to anew. 

After they finished, the soul of Xiaomao placed her hands on her heart, then mimicked the noise of a water droplet reaching the floor. 

|Rewriting ■□ Lvl ¿?¿? : Activated|

Then after a minute, 

|Rewriting ■□ Lvl?? : Deactivated|

A large flash of light hit everyone, causing them to rub their eyes. 

Xiaomao woke up finding herself tied to a chair, unable to move she looked to see she was in a courtroom. 

Ren, Maximillius on the opposite side spoke quietly under their breath, eyeing Aranthor every so now and then. 

Matsuri, behind Xiaomao patted her shoulder whispering, "Don't worry Xiaomao. I will throw hands if you get sentenced to anything. You are too kind and naive to so such a thing anyway." 

Xiaomao looked away, not caring about the sandwiched insult Matsuri threw at her and stared at the corner. 

Her eyes widened as she recognized some faces. 

Nazeeh and Li Shen. 

Xiaomao was outrageous at why they were sent here, not only was it nowhere near their fault but they seemed to be badly bruised as well. 

Alright, we completed it correctly right? 

Second Reality nodded, "It's gonna happen in just a little bit. Wait for a bit." 

Xiaoamao gathered all her attention to the Emperor, who seemed to be signaling to the Dreamless Azure the start of the trial. 

However, just before Aranthor could speak, the people in the crowd began to yell. 

Darting to look at the crowd, Xiaomao noticed that people were starting to fade. 

Her eyes widened, Aranthor sharing her shock. People yelled as they noticed their companions screaming in pain, until falling unconscious, then to finally disappear. 

Sparks grew on the unconscious bodies, their color fading away. 

It felt as if something was sucking the life out the poor citizens. 

"Everyone please evacuate out the building this instant!" Yelled Aranthor, gesturing to the Dreamless Azure to tie me up and place me in a holding cell. 

Xiaomao was able to hear a couple faint words of, "No time to waste... trial not complete... holding cell" 

She watched as she saw Matsuri and Ren run outside, glimpsing a faint image of the sky. 

The sky was a shade of black, no star being visible to the naked eye. Thick smokey clouds filled the air making it difficult to breath. 

Gas masks were distributed immediately by the remaining Dreamless Azure, gathering everyone outside to fend off for themselves. 

Emperor Aranthor climbed the Statue of Flora, and cleared his throat. Most of the city folk gathered up to hear his words. 

"Everyone, please do not panic. I understand everyone's concern, and yes to verify this is Bleeding Sky. The team of Dreamless Azure are out there at the gardens, protecting every flower and destroying every rift, I assure you." 

He continued, taking a deep breath. His eyes were red, and his clothes were drenched of sweat. 

"To stay safe, I advise you to stay away from the rifts and to please seek shelter at our Palace Academy." 

With that, he jumped off the statue  running off to give more orders. 

As everyone was evacuating and making preparations incase of kingdom invasion, Xiaomao was stuck inside a holding cell. 

The holding cell was absolutely boring, a small room with only a window to provide light. 

Forget about food, but there was absolutely no way of opening the lock from inside. 

The echos of people groaning etched inside Xiaomao's head as time passed by. 

By now she knew what was truly going on outside the holding cell. 

The Bleeding Sky apocalypse was a lethal extinction route brought by the Titans of the Flora world. 

As the people of the Flora planet live or die, a corresponding flower exists the same mutual way. 

So with this logic you can say that everyone part of the Flora palace has their own individual flower. 

Not only did the Titans eat the flowers that contained the life force of the people but they were damaging everything in their path as well. 

Xiaomao now understood what truly was going on. 

She had just kick started an apocalypse, on purpose, mind you readers. And she was stuck in the middle of a prison. 

Chapter Text

Chapter 17

"The human mind truly is dangerous my dear, but straying away is worse" 

-Pinterest

As the early sunlight creeped into Xiaomao's cell, faint footsteps could be heard. 

Drops of water falling from the vents that had growing algae on top. 

The person stopped on the water, ending right infront of Xiaomao's room. He held the bars with both of his hands. With permission Ren went inside the cell where Xiaomao stayed. 

It had been only 10 hours since what had happened but more than 3% of the population had been attacked. It would have been more but due to the Dreamless Azure defending the kingdom all was at bay. 

Xiaomao stared at Ren as he sat next to her. 

Whispering under his breath he said, "Make sure they can't hear me." Xiaomao didn't respond, looking back at Second Reality to muffle their voices into something else. 

Ren looked back satisfied, "I'm not here for any silly business." 

His face hardened into slate, his eyes furious. "I know you made this thing happened. Why did you- How did you. Explain." 

"I have no idea what your talking about." She said, her expression was cold. Her lips were pursed and she fought the urge to cross her arms. 

Hey. Why didn't Reality Manipulation not work. Again?? 

"His ability has grown into a hybrid. The power of the orchid has fulfilled its purpose and grew to be greater." Second Reality said staring at Ren. He huffed and turned away from him. 

"I know that's the biggest lie." He said calmly. 

"It's the truth-" 

Before she could finish, Ren's hand flew up and landed straight on her cheek, slapping her. 

Her eyes widened as she fell back holding on to her cheek. Her mask hid the flush of red on her cheek, but it didn't hide the stinging of pain she had. 

Ren stood there in silence, his hands trembling with fear and anxiety. He walked closer to her trying to console but froze.

His mind wandered to a memory he wanted to forget. 

Seeing Xiaomao lying on the ground holding up her hand up to her face, he couldn't bear it. 

He felt terrible. How Xiaomao looked as defenseless and vulnerable just like her. 

He stepped back, his breathing now shallow. Out of instinct he turned back and ran. 

He didn't stop to answer the guards at the front door, nor to any of the eunuchs in charge of the prison. 

He just kept on running. 

Finally he ran inside his house, going in through the back door, he ran straight to his mother. 

His mother was sweeping the floor, noticing her son was in such a state she dropped her broom. 

"Amma..." He said whispering as his mother embraced him. He layed his head on her shoulder as she consoled him. 

"Shhh shh it's ok now Ren. Amma's got you." She said wiping his tears away. 

"Amma I hurt her. I didn't- I didn't want to hurt her- I feel so terrible." He said continuing to bury his face on his mother's shoulder. 

"It's ok Ren, you can say sorry. You are alright my son." 

He held her hand firmly, making sure she couldn't leave. Just the way he held her when he was a child.

He sniffled quietly, not noticing someone opened the door. 

"Eleonora? Is that you?" Maximillius said coming inside. 

Ren and Eleoanora froze, seeing Maximillius come inside. 

"What are you doing with my son Eleonora. Ren! Move from there at once!" Maximillius walked closer to them. 

"Oh? What is this, are you crying Ren? Didn't I say to leave the crying for the women? You're a strong man Ren. Move from there I said!" Maximillius separated Ren from Elenora, making them both fall back. 

"Amma!" Ren said going after his mother. "Don't touch her dad. I'm warning you." He threatened, he cradled his mother making his position to protect her. 

"Dont make me laugh Ren. Dont tell me this woman is turning you soft." He rolled his eyes and crossed his arms. 

He continued, "Why haven't you reported to the Army yet Ren. We need a strong man like you, an army can't survive without their general." 

"Maximillius he already said he didn't want to lead-" 

"Shut up woman! Stop talking for himself. He's 17 for goodness sake." Maximillius shouted, making Eleonora flinch. 

"Dad... I don't want to lead this year. You've lead better-" Ren said firmly, his eyes widening as his father interrupted yet again. 

"NO I said you lead the army this year. How dare you try to disobey your father. Are you this ungrateful? I bet you learnt this from that girl. I told you she was a bad influence." Maximillius raised Ren up and pointed to the door. 

"No exceptions. I told the emperor you were to lead the army to fight the Titans. Go on with it." 

Ren sighed and stared at his mother. Her eyes usually dull now stared at Ren with a shimmer of light. Giving him a subtle gesture to do it. 

"No Dad. I will not lead the army." Ren began, 

""What did you-" Maximillius said outraged. 

Ren interjected, "I've told you this before. I've disliked working in the army all the time. I see why your this surprised. I will not lead the army. Do what you want, but I don't care." 

Maximillius stood their frozen watching Ren walk away, Eleonora smiled faintly as Ren walked out. 

"Quit smiling woman. I knew it, this was your plan wasn't it. You brainwashed him you witch!" Maximillius yelled, his brows were furrowed and his fists were balled. 

"Oh? So your mother was brainwashed to living with you dad was well?" She said snipping the threads of Maximillius. 

"Stop talking about my parents. You know nothing about them!" He yelled louder, looking around the objects near him. 

"Atleast my family was happy instead of your fake one. All your siblings being married off to nobodies. Your mother living a roaches dream-" Eleonora said sharply, stopping when she saw a knife in his hands. 

"No, no no please Max. I'm sorry" she said shielding her face with her hands. 

"Eleonora you've done so much pain to me. Not only is the Emperor such a pain in the rear but so are you. I'm sick of you. I'm sick of him. I hope you both die together!" He roared bringing the knife closer. 

Ren was outside the house taking some cherries off his tree when suddenly he could faintly hear something. 

The sky grew dark, with loud vibrations accompanying their arrival. 

Ren turned to eat another cherry when he froze. 

A giant, no a Titan stared him back. 

Her large eyes piercing his sanity, with the bridge of her nose being atleast 2 feet tall. 

His eyes widened and and he yelled, dropping his cherries he ran to inside the house. 

"Amma! Dad!! Run away!" He yelled as he tried to escape the Titan. 

The lady Titan was around 15 meters tall, her skin being green like the forest. Vines and flowers grew on her covering her body like clothes. 

The lady Titan chased him, every step causing a scorching inferno. 

Maximillius stopped, looking back to see his son coming back inside. 

Ren froze noticing the knife in his father's hand. 

Eleonora reached her hand to Ren, helping her stand. 

Slowly Ren got back to his senses when stared at the inferno circling him. 

"Ren what's going on." Maximillius spoke, moving back to Eleonora and Ren. Surrounding them all was a tall wall of flames, growing each second as lady Titan commanded. 

"Titan-" Ren began as his eyes widened. 

The lady Titan had found them and smiled. 

|Verity Pulse Lvl 2 : Activated|

"Hello... my prettiess. What a beautiful family I see..." 

"Leave us a alone Titan! I'll let you know that I'm the Loyalist General Maximillius of the Flower Palace. His Imperial Majesty would seek revenge if anything happens to me or my family." Maximillius scorned, slowly making Eleonora and Ren go behind him. "How funny. Your Imperial Majesty wouldn't care if you saved the kingdom. He would still never think anything of you except as a General." 

Maximillius bit his tongue knowing that was true. His Imperial Majesty wouldn't care about anything if it didn't affect his image. He wouldn't change for anything. 

"But I don't care about that." She said slowly moving closer. She caused a shockwave, making the family into a disarray. 

She grabbed Eleonora with two fingers, causing Ren to yell. 

"Let my Mom down Titan, you can have me instead. Please let her-" 

"Ren. It's ok, just be a good son. Live for yourself alright dear?" Eleonora smiled for the last time, before entering the Titan's mouth. 

"AMMA!!" Ren screamed unable to run with Maximillius holding him back. 

"Mmm she's soo tasty. Now... your turn." The lady Titan said with flushes on her cheek. 

She grabbed Maximillius, "For you my friend, I have a better place for you than my stomach." 

She squeezed Maximillius, popping his head and making his blood gush down like rain. 

Maximillius yelled out in pain, "Run Ren! Get out of here! Hurry fast!" 

He stopped yelling out in pain realizing it was effortless, instead he used all his energy to his last words.

"Be better than I ever was Ren. Serve to protect, not harm. I always did love you my son. I'm sorr-" 

Ren looked up to see why his father didn't continue, his face dropped to disgust. 

Ripping his limbs like a rag doll the lady Titan began to toy with Maximillius, but turned her head to Ren. 

"Run along now boy. Before I get hungry again..." She whispered, grabbing Ren and launching him out of the burning building. 

Ren couldn't even speak seeing all the flames cover the kingdom, a few seconds later he found himself land on a piece of wreckage made by the Titans. Just a moment later he lost consciousness dissolving to the Night Kingdom. 

The many attractions of the Flower Palace now destroyed by the Titans did look like the end of the world. 

However, it wasn't. 

Yet. 

~~~

On the other side of the Flora palace, Emperor Aranthor was pacing around the room. 

"Rani! What's our status." His arms were crossed and behind his back, sweat trickled down his back as he continued to pace around the room. 

"3 Titans sir, one of them including a S rank and two of them are common Titans." Rani answered.

Prepare the entire kingdom for evacuation. Knowing these Titans thought might take everything down." 

"Yes sir!" Rani saluted, "Shall I prepare the horses?" 

"No need. Inform the eunuchs to alert the people. They will leave under our supervision but they shall gather themselves." Emperor Aranthor said, making the eunuchs package all the important items. 

Obviously if Emperor Aranthor chose to gather all the kingdom, things wouldn't go the way it should. 

In the Flora Empire, there are 4 kingdoms. Shengyu, Corinth, Yusam, and Kagetsu. 

So if he decided that the Shengyu Kingdom were to evacuate with him, the chances of living are going to be slim. 

Now Aranthor has prepared for this invasion many years ago. His parents, and his ancestors all have prepared for this. 

This was from the prophecy the Flora world recieved many many years ago. 

So while the kingdom was ready to evacuate, Xiaomao was still stuck in a holding cell. 

The whole time she's been in the holding cell has been an amazing time, doing absolutely nothing, and hearing random banter. 

Xiaomao laid back, leaning on the wall. The amount of stories she's heard from these inmates were so interesting. 

Suddenly before Inmate A could begin another story, they turned to guard. 

He walked up to the security and placed his card on the platform. 

All the gates in the prison became unlocked. 

"Save yourself! The kingdom is under evacuation from the Titans. Everyone is heading to the Northern Kingdom Yusam." 

Everyone opened their gates in a hurried state, shoving anything in their path. 

But for some reason, Xiaomao's gate wouldn't budge. 

She shoved and pushed as hard as she could, but it wouldn't move. 

Now, she could certainly open the gates. 

But honestly speaking, she'd rather stay right here. 

Doing absolutely nothing. 

Until someone decided to open h7er gate. 

A child, no older than nine peeked his head out through the door. 

Chapter Text

Chapter 18
"There will come a day when the sky will drizzle, and I will hear the call of Gaiathra Triclops and know that it is time for me to go and be reunited with my family."-Aventurine to Kakavasha.

Author Notes: I would like to thank the cherries and the cookies I ate along the way. And Aventurine ily sm.

The child peeked his head out the door, an innocent face stared back at Xiaomao.

Who's that Second Reality?

"I believe that child is called Daisuke." Second Reality said, floating next to the child.

Daisuke? Oh so he'll leave soon.

While Xiaomao was talking, the child walked in and grabbed Xiaomao's hand.

He repeatedly pointed outside, as if he wanted her to leave the holding cell.

"You want me to leave? Xiaomao asked the little child, cocking her head to the side. She was wondering if she could question the child about his lack of words.

Instead of speaking, or even pointing the child grabbed her arm, and ran.

He ran until he brought Xiaomao out of the prison and into the outside world.

She rubbed her eyes as the light hit her, feeling as if the sun was directly facing her.

Xiaomao looked around, finding a deserted street she sighed, knowing that everyone had really left to flee from the Titans.

She sat down next to the child, and pointed to herself.

"Xiaomao. And you?"

Daisuke pointed to himself and wrote down on a piece of paper.

Daisuke.

"What a lovely name." She eyed, looking back and seeing a Titan.

She whispered to Second Reality, activate Concealed Bubble.

Second Reality nodded, and placed his hands together, activating this power.

|Concealed Bubble Lvl 1 : Activated - 5 mins|

Xiaomao let out a sigh of relief, and stared at the kid.

"Come on, we have to find your family." She took his hand gently, leading him to the outskirts of the city.

Daisuke tapped her finger to get her attention, making Xiaomao look down.

He gave her an innocent look, then nodded his head no. Then he rushed to look if he had any more paper, trying to explain.

But unfortunately he ran out of paper.

"No worries kid, I get it." She stared out into the distance, then continues.

"Yo kid wanna come with me to Sanctyr Rise?"

She asked Daisuke, looking at him. His brown eyes seemed to shine with the sun glaring down at him.

Daisuke nodded and gave a thumbs up. He followed Xiaomao out to the woods, giving the city its final farewell.

Sanctyr Rise was an underground sanctuary, where many exiles were sent to live there as punishment. Xiaomao decided to head there because not only did it have enough resources to
last a century, there were also no exiles living there either.

Funny enough, this was also the thought process of Emperor Aranthor.

As Xiaomao and Daisuke walked through dark forests, they noticed the bare flower gardens. Not wanting to see much more, they had an unspeakable shift as to how they would walk.

Now with their back facing the reminder of what was going on, Xiaomao wondered how much did the kid really know.

Looking back at the kid, she noticed his disheveled brown hair frowning, she used her hands to comb his hair into a normal state.

Daisuke stared at her and then looked away as if he understood her actions.

Suddenly Xiaomao stopped, reaching her hand to stop Daisuke as well.

She pointed towards something, that something stared then right back.

"Why hello there little children... did your mommy leave you two alone?" A large Titan licked his fingers, "I'll be damned if you would've been an illusion. The asterisms have blessed me!"

Xiaomao looked around, noticing Daisuke freezing. His facial expression was normal, as if he was smiling.

It was strange.

It was more strange that Xiaomao would feel the internal turmoil inside of him.

His sweaty palms.

His frozen stance.

His balled fists.

It was obvious he was afraid. Xiaomao however wondered something else.

Why isn't his face agreeing?

His face was not acknowledging the face something terrifying is occurring before his eyes. It was as if his face had grown bored and become mundane from these emotions.

However, this was a talk for another time.

Right now, Xiaomao picked Daisuke and threw him on her shoulders.

She began to run as fast as she could, trying to have some mileage against the Titan.

The Titan chuckled, "My, you really think running away can serve you any good?"

Xiaomao ignored the Titan and continued to run, holding Daisuke as tight as she could.

After running a few yards, she put Daisuke down and caught her breath.

Second Reality... I really should've ran more back then.

"Hah... I'm guessing you're tired then?"

Yes...

The titan followed them, "Told you that literally won't do anything."

Daisuke held Xiaomao's hand harder, not wanting to know what might happen if he let go.

"What is it that you desire?" Xiaomao asked, out of pathetic feeling.

"I crave for hunger, the emotion that makes me feel alive. Let me consume your souls." The titan sneered, placing his hand over the children.

"Ok," she shakes her head and looked and Daisuke.

"Don't worry child, there's nothing to worry about." She patted his head, to assure him more.

"Oh how lovely, my meal is doing some sisterly love. What a great taste will that be." The titan snarled.

But suddenly the titan laughed, he raised his hand off the children and clapped his hands.

"Ah how smart are you Beffa, you are amazing." The titan then continued, "I have a new craving now children, would you like to hear?"

"N-" Xiaomao began to say, the titan then interrupted her.

"I do not care about your opinion, what I'd like to say is I will eat only one of you. The other can leave."

Daisuke walked forward subconsciously, pointing to himself. It was as if he wanted the Titan to eat him.

Xiaomao grabbed Daisuke and moved him behind her, "Absolutely not."

The child just stood there staring at the Titan, his face unwavering.

Xiaomao walked up to the Titan, making sure Daisuke wasn't following her.

"If you are sure to honor the deal, I shall give you my soul to consume."

"Maybe." The titan laughed, "What makes you think I'll follow my own rules?"

Xiaomao stepped back, walking back to Daisuke. "I will not feed you to the Titan and I forbid you to use yourself as a decoy. You are a person, little child. Not something to be used."

His eyes widened, a hint of fear flashing in his face.

He placed his hands together, thanking Xiaomao.

Then all of a sudden, a boy came out of nowhere.

"Don't worry Cookie Lady, I'll save you and your child!"

It was Paul, running out the woods. He immediately ran towards the Titan, and put his hand on his chest.

"Good day, sir Titan!" Paul continued slowly backing away from its monstrous size.

"Would you please leave these wonderful people alone?"

"Little boy, your sacrifice will do nothing to appeal me. I am hungry and I shall eat." The titan said unwavering, he was getting very irritated on how long he had been without a meal.

"Eat me! Let these civilians go!" Paul said, standing up straight.

"You don't have to..." Xiaoamao cringed at Paul's choice of words.

She was so glad that Paul wasn't the protagonist of this story.

Otherwise she would've been the villain.

The titan then immediately grabbed Paul and swallowed him whole.

"...that was interesting. Well anyways good day to you Titan. We'd best be on our way."

After the Titan nodded, Xiaomao and Daisuke walked away from the Titan.

"He really didn't have to do that." Xiaomao said to Daisuke, then continued, "If he never showed up I was going to take out his hair."

Daisuke looked at Xiaomao, a bit puzzled but didn't bother to ask.

Finally after walking of what seemed like forever, Xiaomao and Daisuke reached thr gateway of Sanctyr Rise.

Clothes, food, horses were everywhere. The whole area was trashed with so many things it was terrifying.

Xiaomao grabbed a vest on the ground and shook all the dirt off. Putting it on, she tied her hair and put a scarf on to hide her face.
After seeing Daisuke's look she answered, "I can't really let people see me now. I'm technically supposed to be in prison."

She continued, "Oh wait you were in there too."

She grabbed a few more clothes and handed them to Daisuke, "Here, you can choose what to wear."

After the change if clothes, Xiaomao and Daisuke went inside the gate to Santyr Rise.

They were then stopped by the guards.

"Who are you, and what's your reason of travel?" The guard said, examining Xiaomao and Daisuke.

"My name is Amane Ibuki, of the Rose flower. I have come here with the Shengyu Kingdom to evacuate the Titans. And this is Daisuke."

Daisuke showed them his Flora mark on his wrist.

Daisuke, of the Daylily flower. 

Chapter Text

Chapter 19  "So if you need to be mean, be mean to me." - Mitski

After completing the check in with the guards, Xiaomao and Daisuke walked in the city.

Wagons and carts bustling in the street as people swarmed the area. Many were from the Shengyu Kingdom who were all now looking for jobs and homes to stay in.

Xiaomao and Daisuke had rested a few hours ago, so they didn't bother to find a place to stay.

Besides, all the buildings were taken by the citizens and the people of Shengyu.

Before they had arrived, Xiaomao told Daisuke what her plan was.

Her plan is to take on some commissions with some random team to earn some money.

So she first went straight to the bar.

Holding Daisuke's hand, she went inside the bar.

She went up to the scrawny bartender, his attire fancy but yet filled with comfort.

His name tag reading, Atticus Fester.

Hair slicked back, and wearing a suit and tie, he was the talk of Sanctyr Rise.

Grabbing a glass with his thin fingers, he glanced up to Xiaomao and Daisuke.

"Aren't you a little young for alcohol?

"I'm here for the special. Add a side of black tea and-" She stopped and asked Daisuke, "What would you like?"

He pointed at the pink drink, filled with strawberries.

"He'll like the strawberry lemonade please." Xiaomao responded, handing the menu back to Atticus.

"Very well, take your seats while we bring the special." He spoke in a posh manner.

Xiaomao and Daisuke took a seat in the back, right in front of some new travelers.

Coincidentally, those new travelers were familiar.

After a while, Atticus brought the drinks and passed them a slip of paper.

"Ring me once you look things over alright?" He walked away,

Xiaomao handed Daisuke his strawberry lemonade as she sipped her black tea. "Hmm, is yours good?" She asked, looking up to see Daisuke's expression.

His face was relaxed, and it definitely looked way better than before. His eyes flushed with color as he took in his drink. Smiling, he gave her a thumbs up, letting her know he enjoyed
his drink.

"That's good to hear." She nodded, then put her drink down. "We need to look at the main thing now."

Taking the slip of paper Atticus left on the table, she opened to see its inside.

The paper then wrote,
"Commission Teams that are available to join are:"
1. Silvercrow - Leader Syphlos
2. Spidereye - Leader Sienna
3, Dreamless Azure Leader - Cassius
4. Hibiscus Roots - Leader Latifah
5. Untitled - Leader Ren

Continuing, "If you would like to join other teams, examination will be required. However, if one team is up to your liking, please sign your name under the team."

"Lowkey all these teams look like really good little child, which one should we pick?" She asked, then she looked directly at Daisuke while stealing a glance at the other team sitting afar.

"Just so you know, joining any of these teams is going to be dangerous. Are you sure you want to stay with me?" Xiaomao asked Daisuke, waiting for his response.

Taking out a slip of paper, he wrote and then showed her with a very serious face.
"I wouldn't dare to care that anywhere else is dangerous. I'll go where you go."

"Even if I make stupid decisions? Or even dangerous ones?" She asked genuinely, at this moment she did not care how she was to speak to this nine year old.

To her, he was family.

Daisuke nodded, and then sipped his drink.

"If you say so." She patted his head, "You're a really good kid."

After no thinking, she signed her name under "Untitled" and folded the paper.

"All we need is some money, right?" She asked, particularly no one. To which, no one also answered.

Suddenly, a loud noise could be heard.

"Ugh Ren its been a week and you've mentioned her for like 4 times already today. Would you mind shutting up about her?"

Hmm is that Matsuri? She asked Second Reality.

"I believe so." He responded, looking at Matsuri with an indifferent look.

"I have not been talking about her at all." Ren pouted, looking away. "But anyways, you think anyone's going to join our team?"

She scoffed, "With a name like that? People will think children were naming the group."

"Don't be that harsh now." He scolded.

Meanwhile, after Daisuke finished his drink, XIaomao and him walked up to Atticus.

Nodding, she handed Atticus the paper and a few coins. "Drinks were delightful. I'll be sure to come again."

"Glad to hear that, might you follow me to the back?"

Xiaomao and Daisuke began to walk behind the counter, before entering, however Atticus stopped.

"Are you sure you would like for the little one to hear?" He asked, eyeing the jar of candy he set on the counter.

Xiaomao gave him a dirty look, "He is not just a child. He will also accompany me."

"Little kid, do you want to go with her?" Atticus questioned for the sake of the child.

Seeing the child nod, he sighed but decided not to question further.

He opened the slip of paper to see what team she chose.

"How curious." He responded, seeing the Untitled being chosen.

"You might have dropped multiple golden opportunities, but who am I to judge? I'm just a humble bartender."

He stopped, "Alright, enough with the small talk. Come here tomorrow at dawn so we can officiate your designation. Feel free to meet with Ren if you'd like. I believe he was sitting just in front of you."

"Formalities are not required. We have met before." Xiaomao said, taking Daisuke to exit the back. "We will meet tomorrow at dawn then. Have a wondrous day."

She then left the bar. 

Chapter Text

Chapter 20
"Don't you notice how...? I get all quiet when no one's around."
- Laufey

Coming back to the bar, Xiaomao and Daisuke entered the bar with their disguises.

As usual Xiaomao now had white long hair still wearing her mask, while Daisuke had a hood over his head.

Going into the bar, they noticed how deserted it was, having only a few adventurers pile up in the corner.

"There you are, The Untitled as been waiting for you. You can go on straight to the back, it'll lead you to the fields where your team is." Atticus stretched continuing, "Unless you want a drink of course."

She gave Daisuke a quick look and then nodded, "No thank you, we'll be off on our way. Good day."

She walked in front of Daisuke leading the way, occasionally fitting her mask back at a comfortable position.

After walking for a bit, she finally noticed three people on the field.

The field was vast to say, but deserted. There was no one else to be seen except three figures hidden in the shadows.

One was holding a cigarette, he had a tall and muscular figure, his hair was also up in a bun.

Xiaomao presumed that it was Ren.

And next to Ren was Matsuri resting her head on this unfamiliar face.

But yet to Xiaomao it was ever so familiar.

She wasn't sure if she could put a name to the person's face, but she knew they met somewhere.

She just didn't know where.

"Oi! Newbies over here!" The unknown figure shouted, waving to Xiaomao.

Xiaomao and Daisuke walked over to them with a bit more speed, finally showing face to them.

Panting, they stopped and bowed until Ren nodded his head.

"Welcome, I presume you heard the introduction from Atticus, correct?" Ren began, his eyes began to chase every visible feature on Xiaomao and Daisuke.

"Correct." Xiaomao responded, trying not to look away from Ren. His impenetrable gaze looked them down, making it unbearable to stand.

"What is your name traveler?" Matsuri questioned, leaving the side of the unknown figure.

"This is Daisuke of the Daylily." Xiaomao spoke, pointing towards Daisuke.

"And I am called Amane Ibuki of the Rose clan. We both derive from the Shengyu Kingdom." She stopped, carefully noticing their expressions.

"I see, may I ask a question?" Ren asked, walking closer to Xiaomao and Daisuke.

"Are you the same Daisuke that burnt down Raison Villa"

He demanded, stepping infront of Daisuke.

"No he is not." Xiaomao spoke, standing infront of Daisuke.

"Let the boy speak." He glared at Xiaomao, trying to push her aside.

"Let the boy be." She snapped, putting more force on her hand to stop Ren from speaking directly to Daisuke.

The boy moved back more, slowly freezing in place.

He was unable to move more, with his thoughts running left and right.

Are they fighting because of me?

...

No- no not again.

He scrambled his words to try and utter a word, however once he opened his mouth he was only able to utter a faint sound.

"The boy is unable to speak." Xiaomao spat, looking directly at Ren's eyes. After staring at them she quickly looked away to Daisuke, motioning that nothing had happened.

Ren huffed and slowly moved to Matsuri and the unknown figure. "Well you can't blame me, I have to know who is coming on my crew."

"Well? Has it proved to satisfy your standards?" Xiaomao asked bitterly, staring over to the unknown figure.

"Um, aside from that. I am Matsuri of Kalanchoe Clan. Nice to meet you." Matsuri introduced herself, bowing to Xiaomao and Daisuke.

"I am Zixin of the of the Zixin Clan. Pleasure to meet you at last." He replied.

Xiaomao was finally able to tell why he looked so familiar.

It's not that she knew him, but it was from his appearance.

Zixin's face was so lethal, that in a thumb wrestling contest with Ren. He might have a chance to win.

His blond hair riveled his face, his face gushing in caramel. His specks of light shined of copper.

"Anyways, since the introductions all been taken care of. Let's talk about our first mission." Ren spoke, standing up from the ground.

He pulled out a scroll and began to read from it:

"Patrol the cities. Make sure all villagers get customed and have a place to stay."

Everyone groaned thinking to themselves,

You got to be kidding me.

They have us doing patrol??

"Is that a complain I hear?" Atticus yelled from bar, making everyone turn their attention towards him.

How did he hear us...

"I actually don't know... let's not focus on that though." Second Reality said in his usual floating stance.

"This is merely the first task, but still make sure you put all your effort in." Ren spoke, holding himself in a confident posture.

"Alright boss!" Zixin acknowledged following Ren.

Matsuri followed Zixin, motioning Xiaomao and Daisuke to come as well.

Besides, now they were actually a team.

- A few hours later -

The team had patrolled the western side of Santyr Rise for around 6 hours now.

As of now, Xiaomao made herself be acquainted with Matsuri again.

"Say Matsuri, wasn't it annoying being the only woman on board? It must have been quite troublesome." Xiaomao asked, while keeping an eye on Daisuke whom she let roam around to explore.

For some particular reason Daisuke had some interest towards the mulberry bushes that surrounded the corridor of gates. So as a kid he was, Xiaomao let him do whatever he pleased.

Matsuri nodded placing a hand on her head, "You are absolutely right. Oh dear where to even start." Contemplating she spoke,

"Well first, me and Ren go way back. We knew each other even before the apocalypse. But he was tolerable, you know since he was a prince and all."

Xiaomao scrunched her eyes, "A prince? Him?"

"Yes? Where did you live in the Shengyu that you don't know?" She asked suspiciously.

"Right on the outskirts of Zhaoliang..." Xiaomao answered still astonished.

Meowzers how much changed from the Original?

"I forgot to tell you this one. But apparently once you were burnt to a crisp, his Imperial Majesty decided Ren would be a good heir. Since the consorts couldn't give him a perfect heir." Second Reality replied, checking his notes he nodded again.

"I see... you were one of those medical freaks weren't you?" Matsuri said bitterly then continuing,

"God people from there are so... off-putting."

Xiaomao stood there awkwardly, only managing to let out, "Oh..."

"I'm not saying you're off putting, but there was someone I knew who was just obsessed with medicine and they came from Zhaoliang." Matsuri let out in a defensive tone.

"I see, may I ask if the person was called Xiaomao?"

Matsuri froze for a split second, then laughed fakely.

"Ahaha... yes why it was her. Do you perhaps know her?"

"Why yes, she taught me medicine a few years back." Xiaomao responded eyeing Matsuri's expression. Xiaomao could tell she didn't want to speak about this any longer.

"Ibuki... you mustn't speak of that name anymore. That girl, was thrown in the White Room, only the Flora know if she is alive." Matsuri scolded, turning her to Xiaomao.

Even with her back turnt, Xiaomao could tell Matsuri was trembling, her hands shaking faintly.

But Xiaomao said nothing.