Once upon a bad Christmas

Chapter 29

“The method used long ago though effected was incomparable to now,” I replied softly as the car finally passed the orchard and appeared in an area where vegetables were grown and people wearing wide brim hats and sunprotecting cloths, boots and gloves with their desired tools were tending to them.

“The tools I had asked to be prepared and stored, have they been delivered?”

“Yes, Miss Mi, they have been stored in the side storage rooms. There are also duplicates as well as a separate set for you if you wish to use them,” Miss Su replied, her tone always professional.

“En, how many have I employed here?” I inquired, eyes scanning the fields of green.

“At the moment there are over two thousand people residing within the estate, the majority being locals who have lived here for generations, the rest hailing from the surrounding villages, some as far as fifty kilometers away,” she replied, her tone precise and informative, “They have been meticulously divided into specialized groups based on their individual knowledge and skill sets. Many of them adhere to their own time-honored methods they have developed to meticulously care for their designated areas; orchard tending, responsible livestock management, including mustering practices perfected over generations, efficient loading and even humane slaughtering techniques, seasonal fruit picking, proactive disease treatment for both flora and fauna, careful pruning, nutrient-rich soil management, and diverse vegetable cultivation, all handled by their own dedicated and experienced teams.”

I hummed thoughtfully, “We can delve into the specifics of their roles and responsibilities later. Tell me first about the livestock situation?”

“The livestock are generally free to roam within the larger, designated pastures, with a few clearly marked, smaller safety zones to prevent any unfortunate incidents with delicate vegetable crops. Of course, we adhere to a careful rotation schedule to promote healthy grazing. The specific breeds and quantities you had requested during our initial correspondence have been kept segregated in a separate paddock, awaiting your explicit approval. Any additional livestock purchased to meet your desired levels is currently being held in quarantine, and Curren can provide a more detailed explanation of their acquisition and health records.”

I nodded slowly, processing the information. “For this amount of sprawling land, two thousand people seems like a relatively modest number, yet everything appears to be in perfect order thus far. However, first impressions can be deceiving, and my initial assessment might change once I’ve had the chance to thoroughly review all the pertinent information again. With this many inhabitants, establishing my own clearly defined territory will be essential, but it must be carefully planned and strategically implemented. Most of them might not even pass my rigorous screening process.”

As we slowly passed the vibrant rows of the vegetable fields, the old house finally came into breathtaking view. It was… undeniably breathtaking. It truly looked like it had been plucked straight from the set of a meticulously crafted historical drama. Two stories high, the structure boasted intricate carvings depicting ancient mythical creatures and auspicious symbols, all surrounding a grand courtyard paved with meticulously arranged stones. The entire estate was enclosed by a formidable stone wall, providing both security and an air of timeless elegance. The roof tiles were a deep, dark grey, almost black, providing a striking contrast with the cream-colored walls, which seemed to glow softly in the afternoon light. The roof itself curved elegantly upwards at the corners, and the windows were artfully latticed with delicate wooden patterns, filtering the sunlight into dappled patterns.

The sleek black car stopped smoothly and silently in front of the massive, exquisitely carved wooden gates, which were easily ten feet tall. Men in impeccably tailored black suits immediately and efficiently stepped out, their eyes constantly scanning the surroundings, their hands hovering near concealed weapons with practiced ease.

Rekuren, his face betraying no emotion, opened my door with a respectful bow. “Miss Mi, we have arrived at the main residence.”

I carefully picked up the little thing, cradling him close to my chest. He was still sound asleep, his tiny face peaceful and unblemished.

“The main courtyard house has been thoroughly prepared according to your specifications, Miss Mi. The various items and supplies we acquired during our journey are still being meticulously organized within the hundred-kilometer square area of the estate.” Rekuren continued, his voice a low, professional murmur.

My parents were somewhere far away, but as a now mature, independent thirty-two-year-old adult woman, I was perfectly fine with being alone for the time being. I walked forward with purpose, taking the few deliberate steps towards my new domain.

I paused, took a deep breath of the crisp, clean air, and finally stepped out of the car. As expected, the air was refreshingly fresh and clean, carrying the subtle scent of pine and damp earth. “I will dedicate today to relaxation and acclimation. As for the temporary housing arrangements for those currently residing here, please locate an empty house or suitable dwelling for them to spend the night,” I informed Rekuren softly, careful not to disturb the little thing who now slept peacefully in his car seat, he has been such an obedient child. “Yes, Miss Mi, I will immediately relay your instructions and oversee their execution.” Rekuren said with a slight, respectful bow, turning and striding off with brisk efficiency.

I looked around, taking in the full grandeur of the old house. It was even more impressive up close, the craftsmanship even more detailed than I had imagined. It is hard to believe that this is the twenty second century.

The massive doors were constructed from richly polished wood, featuring a double-panel design. They had intricate carvings depicting fierce lions facing due south, guarding the entrance. I paused to admire them for a moment, tracing the delicate details with my fingers, before continuing forward into the main courtyard, which, though it appeared historically authentic, I knew had been modernized and reinforced in such a way that it could be easily dismantled without damaging the original structure. After all, this home carried a deep and resonant history, one that needed to be carefully preserved. The muted sound of construction drifted from not too far away, a subtle reminder of the ongoing renovations.

It would be somewhat annoying to endure the noise, but it was a necessary inconvenience for what was to come.

Once upon a bad Christmas

Chapter 28

I frowned a bit remembering some things, even though I had my confinement, I still had about a year for my body to fully heal and be cleaned even if it was a natural birth it was still my first, it will take less than a year and by then I will be running around trying to survive and have a growing child in tow.

We in the caribbean love ground provision becaus it its filling and packed with a lot of nutrients, for a growing boy no less it is xtremely necessary exspecially in the apocalypse.

Like in most cases, sweet potato must be planted. The benefits are great – vitamins, fiber, everything. And it only takes 3-4 months to harvest a good yield. I need to find some old tires or large containers. Storing some soil in them, it would be good to grow them as well; the leaves are also useful, good for soups and stews. Pumpkin as well, since it’s one of my favourite foods and easy to grow, will also be planted. The big ones from seed should take about four months, maybe five depending on the rainfall. Then cassava, eddoes and yam because as someone from Barbados I love ground provision. Lots of corn for corn meal because cou-cou is a must and some cookies.

If there is one thing against all odds I must have it!

Ahhhh and great cake with rum, ugh it is best to have someone acquire some bottles of rum for me.

Unfortunately as a nursing mother somethings will not be allowed but they can be stored for once I was free again.

A week later, the armored SUV, followed by a convoy of supply trucks, finally turned off the main highway and onto a winding country road. It was undeveloped which was allowed by the Mi family some things do not need to be fully developed and should remain as is.

The surrounding trees and mountainous forest in the far distance gave a beautiful back drop. 

Just as I had written and mostly remmebered, China held a captivating beauty, in fact every country held such beauty, it is just boils down to personal preferance. The air was cleaner here, noticeably fresher, and the sky above was a brilliant, almost impossibly blue, a stark and welcome contrast to the perpetually polluted skies of the city. Even though it had tall buildings and was home to the elite, it held so prefernce to me unlike this sight and the long to rush from the car and run into the mountainous forest like a savage.

Of course, that was a feeling which was ruthlessly suppressed. 

As we drove up the long, winding driveway to the old house, I felt a strange sensation, as though I was being transported back in time, stepping into a scene from a historical drama.

Such a beautiful sight was something I had only see in fantasy movies and some art I had done for my novels in the past.

It seems that nothing really did not change since more than two thousand years ago. The ancient stone walls and towering trees seemed to whisper stories of generations past, their gnarled branches reaching out like welcoming arms.

As the car wound its way further into the estate, the orchard came into view. Workers were busily tending to the trees, their figures moving between the rows, and a few animals grazed peacefully in between the trees. “The ancient methods are still used to manage the orchard, the livestock can graze to help manage the vegetation and some fallen fruits if not collected on time by some of the workers, manure is used as fertilizer.” I continued to look as the voice of miss Su spoke in my ears, her main job before was a doctor but with her being by my side now, she had resigned tasked with things far from her original job. I had to show my appreciation for her sacrifice. “It is a good method, the pruning also seems to be done well with the shape very attractive, with slightly dense leaves among the oranges and plums.” I said in a low tone. My golden eyes scanned the surroundings in an almost detached lazy way. 

This week was long my body tired. 

“Yes miss Mi, the careful pruning allows the growth to be carefully controlled, some like those over in the west are tied to both save space and control sun exposure,”

My eyes narrowed sparring miss Si a glance before asking just to confirm some things. “It is as expected, and the grafting of some?”

I decided to look at her as she replied, now wearing a cream suit making her already white skin even whiter, her hair done in a low ponytail exposed her delicate features and the tear drop earrings in her ears.

compared to my highwaisted wide legged trousers, long sleeve waist design button down shirt and long wide sleeved coat I seemed like a domineering version. 

It cant be helped, I have to breast feed and I preferrred comfort, though I am still slim, I still have some extra fat around my waist making me a thirty inch waist instead of the previous twenty-six. Lucky I was compensated with extra inches on my hips bringing them to an enviable forty-six. As a woman of color who wouldnt be happy!

Though now I am a blasian compared to most of the asian women around me it is too much of a stark difference with almond toned skin, thick curly hair done in mid length braids. 

“Yes miss Mi, as for the grafting, some trees bar sweet, sour or a mixed of fruits, we tend to separate and mark them to the taste of those who wish to buy in bulk.” I focused on miss Si upon hearing this. 

I love sour fruits!

“Then have some sour fruits picked, the apples would be more appreciated, those large one to the far north look yellow and beautiful,”

“Of course miss Mi,”

“The pest control, how many trees have been infested and filled with disease?” I asked miss Si softly, I like this subordinate, she has done well in gathering the information about the property of the old house in the countryside. “Miss Mi some of the modern methods were used since it saved more trees but it was limited because some were a bit harsh,”

Once upon a bad Christmas

Chapter 27

In the book, the female characters were driven by jealousy and the male characters by greed. It wouldn’t earn the label of a “dog blood” drama without a heavy dose of dramatic conflict, and villains were abundant, each consumed by their own selfish ambitions, plotting and scheming at every turn.

Now, however, the book’s plot points feel like a bothersome distraction, especially now that I’ve transmigrated into this chaotic world.

Anyway, my loyal workers will deal with any obstacles in my path. My only concern is taking care of the little one and forging a path forward, surviving the upcoming apocalypse.

“Hello Miss Mi, welcome. I am Manager Feng,” a middle-aged man with meticulously slicked-back hair and a practiced, slightly strained smile, greeted me. He was wearing a tailored suit, likely custom-made, that accentuated his slim but not overly tall frame.

“Hello, Manager Feng, are the materials ready for transport?” I asked in a friendly tone, keeping it professional but not inviting familiarity, aware that some men might misinterpret kindness as a sign of something more.

“Yes Miss Mi, every item on the list has been carefully packed and secured in the transporters, ready for immediate dispatch,” he replied respectfully, his demeanor making me feel a degree of satisfaction; it was a sign I was on the right track.

“Alright, the remaining funds have been successfully transferred electronically. Once I’ve personally inspected the materials and confirmed their quality, a generous bonus will be authorized. Consider it a reward for exceptional efficiency and discretion,” I said, subtly gesturing to Curren, my most trusted aide, to step forward. He gave a slight, almost imperceptible dip of his head in acknowledgement and strode away, his footsteps silent on the polished floor. He will lead the convoy of transporters filled with the vital purchases to the old house. It can’t be helped, this house needs to be rebuilt so it can be easily moved and the materials must be able to withstand flooding and even the temperature of extreme cold and heat, a fortress against the apocalypse.

I gave a curt nod of dismissal to the manager and walked away, leaving Rekuren to finalize the details and paperwork. “Miss Mi, thank you for your generous patronage,” Manager Feng called out, his voice filled with gratitude. The automated doors slid closed smoothly as I slipped into the waiting vehicle, a sleek, armored SUV. The door was closed and the journey continued, now leaving me alone behind the vehicle.

I glanced at the baby nestled in his car seat beside me. He stirred slightly, his little lips twitching, then settled back into a peaceful sleep. About two hours later, the car began to slow down, the smooth deceleration indicating another pre-planned stop. Blinking to clear the sleep from my eyes, I looked at my little one and decided it was time for his feeding. I would breastfeed him this time to strengthen our bond.

“Miss Mi, we have arrived at the designated location for livestock collection,” Rekuren announced, his voice clear and professional through the intercom system.

“Understood. Maintain strict vigilance and proceed with the transfer with utmost caution,” I replied, returning my focus to the precious bundle in my arms.

The transfer of the livestock, a carefully selected group of hardy breeds, was completed swiftly and without incident, thanks to Rekuren’s meticulous planning and the professionalism of the security team.

Back in the vehicle, I settled back into my seat, feeling a sense of accomplishment. The baby remained asleep in my arms, his small body warm and comforting. The journey continued, the kilometers melting away as we headed towards our destination.

I thought about the other necessary things such as medicine, antibiotics and antiviral drugs, clothes, durable work clothes and sturdy boots, shoes, dry goods, rice, beans, flour, the essentials for survival.

I lamented that I did not have a space, a pocket dimension to store everything.

Actually, what will also be good is to collect the dirt after digging the foundation on the pretext that I was repairing the house and changing things a bit, fertile soil is worth more than gold.

With the old house being so old it was called a historical building so I can only change it subtly a bit.

Sigh, suddenly being proud of having such an old background is not something to be happy about because it only seemed to hinder me, preserving history while preparing for the end of the world.

Ugh, anyway, I will need dirt and also collect some seeds for planting, heirloom varieties that can withstand harsh conditions.

Then there is making sure the soil was fertile and of good quality, which would require less maintenance and allow the plants to grow well and yield enough.

I scraped my brain for some things, remembering that when I wrote this book I added one or two golden fingers, plot devices I now had the chance to exploit.

The thing is, should I take them away?

Shaking my head, I decided to search for some other things and maybe one or two people who were down and out who were actual geniuses, hidden talents waiting to be discovered.

Sigh, it would be so good to pick up a spatial ring bracelet or necklace, a cheat code for survival.

I silently lamented, working hard is so stressful!

Come to think of it, a few people will be able to secure resources by establishing a safe zone.

Just to follow the trend, people with abilities will appear.

I remember when travelling for three days I needed one pair of shoes all in different colors, and fifteen sets of clothes with twenty different underwear.

It was sad thinking about it now especially when I might get bored of what I am wearing but cannot change because no materials are available, practicality trumps fashion in the apocalypse.

Taking out my phone I decided to type in some extra commands, additional resources to acquire.

It would be good to find two people who knew how to make all sorts of clothes in advance and later pick them up by the way, skilled tailors and seamstresses who could create durable clothing from scratch.

Once upon a bad Christmas

Chapter 26

“They are her people, loyal to her, and she is among the last from the Mi and Saint Michael family, clinging to the remnants of their legacy.” Zhorin said just to give his opinion even though he was the busiest among them, a voice of reason amidst the rising tide of emotions.

Zhengri stood to his full height, his long limbs stretching, walking across the study to stand before the floor-to-ceiling window and look outside, which was still beautiful, even in the fading light of dusk. Though it is the countryside, with money, even here can be comfortable and everything just a convenience. “In a few months, everything will change. We have to also prepare.” He said, his voice low and serious. He knew certain things, glimpses of the future, but a lot has changed, the timelines altered. The world was on the brink of a cataclysmic event, a reckoning that would reshape civilization as they knew it.

“Yes, there is word online, whispers in the dark corners of the internet, even though people are skeptical, a selected few are still being cautious, stocking up on supplies, preparing for the worst.” Zhorin added, his fingers flying across the keyboard, monitoring the flow of information, tracking the movements of those who knew too much.

“Third brother is right, I had seen it as well,” Zhugri said, running a hand through his midlength hair, his brow furrowed in thought before continuing, “the Si and Su family have already begun to subtly make small moves, positioning themselves for the coming changes.”

“Brother is right, the Yung and Kang families have also done the same,” Zhorin said immediately, pulling up the information on the screen, scanning it quickly. He continued by tapping his screen, opening many other interfaces, and found that his second brother’s were correct. “Many top and small families have also began to slowly make moves.” Zhengri hands behind his back released a breath lifting his had higher a smirk gracing his perfectly shaped thin lips. “At least the world after this event will not fully fall into chaos.”

“Many will still die, countless lives lost in the upheaval. This event will shake the very core of our world, testing the limits of human endurance and resilience.” Zhugri said, uncaring if they did, his indifference a shield against the pain of potential loss. He could only care about his child and woman, sparing his brothers a few words of warning upon a whim when necessary only, all others meant too much effort.

“Yes, but we will survive,” Zhorin rolled his eyes, saying under his breath.

“Do not forget she likes clothes and shoes, designer brands, an indulgence she always enjoyed.” Zhugri added, a fond smile playing on his lips.

“Then we should gather those things, start amassing a collection of her favorite items. She used to like collecting gems, rare and precious stones that sparkled like captured stars.” Zhorin said, his fingers already searching online auctions and private collections.

“Back then, she had room with all of her precious stones inside, a glittering sanctuary filled with her treasures.” Zhugri mused, remembering the awe he felt when he first saw her collection.

“There is an auction soon, one of us can make time to go there and collect some things, acquire some rare gems to replenish her collection.” Zhorin suggested, his mind already calculating the logistics.

“Second brother is correct, we can use the rest of time and collect some of those other items, the things she loves, the things that bring her joy.” Zhengri agreed, his voice softening, a hint of tenderness creeping into his tone.

“Then, should we create a base, a safe haven where we can all gather, a place to protect her and our son?” Zhorin asked, his voice filled with concern.

“Why?” Zhengri looked at his third brother and frowned, his eyes narrowing. “A base should be a safe haven, a sanctuary free from harm, but it usually is not. Problems always arise, conflicts erupt, secrets are revealed. One should think about themselves and their own people, prioritize their safety and well-being above all else.”

“Sorry, eldest brother you are right, anyway she has our son as well,” Zhorin said, backing down, knowing that Zhengri’s protective instincts were always on high alert.

“That is right, children in those times are nothing but burdens,” Zhengri said, pausing before the two. He frowned suddenly feeling his two younger brothers seemed to have different views, it is fine if they did he would be happy to have her for himself.

The two sensing their brother’s emotions through the triplet bond became startled. Zhongri paused what he was doing and focused fully on his eldest brother. “Zhengri, well all have memories of our previous life and know the book because of her. We loved her then and still loved her now. You have gotten to her first before us, but as brothers now, we experienced what you did and felt close to her. We will never let anything happen to her or our son,”

“Third brother spoke the truth, we said those things just to let you know that perhaps—”

“We know the real her; she will never have or show unnecessary mercy to the weak or unworthy. She is a survivor, a warrior, and she will do whatever it takes to protect herself and those she loves.” Zhengri said striding from the study and leaving the two behind. The Hui old house had been changed to one with a better location two hundred years ago, the original was left in the countryside.

It had been maintained by the main branch and their eldest son without much change. Stepping out into the cool night air, Zhengri felt a surge of restlessness.

When he first arrived here he had thought he had been transported to the past. With a mainhouse and several detached buildings, a main courtyard, large lake, pavillions, covered walk ways. It was built well but not like the Mi family home which was made exquisitely, a testament to their wealth and power.

His mind moving, Zhengri found himself walking aimlessly through the sprawling gardens, the moonlight casting long shadows across the manicured lawns. He stood stunned, his breath catching in his throat, looking down at a woman with her child who looked extremely familiar. The woman, her eyes wide with shock, trembled taking a step back and wanted to flee, but would he let her?

Never! 

Once upon a bad Christmas

Chapter 25

Zhugri is the second son from the Hui family.

A man once seen as his rival became his brother, with their emotion shared through a bond.

Unlike his older brother he was awakened first but remained calm, he had been around Vanity Saint Michael the most and understood that acting is something that must be done in various situations. He knew how to play the game, how to manipulate events to his advantage.

He had of course learned from the best, Vanity.

The world condemned her for being heartless torturing her leads but did she even have a choice?

He loved her for so many decades, he watched her suffer. He had witnessed her strength and resilience firsthand.

He knew her darkest deepest secrets and though she did not tell him, he saw.

Such a woman, who was forced to go through such things, shouldn’t the world pay?

For the greater good, for humanity, for the world. The more he read and the more he heard her wailing he just felt hatred.

When she died after sorting everything else he followed immediately after. There is no point in living without her.

He loved her too much and she was his reason for continually living anyway.

Appearing here as a teenage boy, with the distinct features of the Hui family – high cheekbones, exquisite features, intelligent eyes, and an air of quiet confidence – It took him a while to figure everything out, to piece together the fragments of his past life. But when he did, he found he was a triplet, born only minutes apart, and his brothers shared a close connection, a silent understanding that transcended words.

Anyway, one after another, the first and third brother changed, their memories returning, their personalities shifting back to their true selves. They thought they hid it so well, but Zhugri saw through their charade, recognizing the subtle changes in their demeanour, the glint of recognition in their eyes.

Zhengri was the meticulous lawyer Hui from that life, with an unwavering dedication to one person only; Vanity, 

As for him Zhugri, he was the editor Wen who had Vanity only, of course he had a background but she was his life. The third was from the Si family, inventors of the group.

They were a technological family back then, at the forefront of innovation, and the third brother, Zhorin, went down the same path in this life. He encouraged it, nurturing his brother’s talents. In this world, it is necessary anyway, a tool for survival in the coming storm. As for the eldest, Zhengri, he should act like an elder brother, a figurehead to guide and protect them.

He had deceived his upright eldest brother for so long, carefully manipulating events to steer him in the desired direction. He was now deciding to give him a sweet date, not because he was generous and kind, but because he wanted him to soften her first so she would suffer less. Let Zhengri experience the joy of courtship, the tenderness of love, before the inevitable heartbreak.

He had anticipated it all, every possible outcome, every potential obstacle. But then she disappeared, vanishing without a trace, leaving him with nothing but unanswered questions and a gnawing sense of unease.

The previous information was incorrect, a deliberate misdirection. The woman they had found was a decoy, a carefully constructed illusion designed to mislead them. Someone was trying to hide Vanity from them, and they were willing to go to great lengths to do so.

The triplets were furious, their carefully constructed composure crumbling, unwilling to believe that they had missed her many times over. “What is the point of keeping so many people?!” Zhengri shouted, his voice laced with barely suppressed rage, his eyes blazing with undisguised anger and frustration. The other two brothers had the same look, a silent agreement passing between them.

“Brother, there was a surveillance leak from Saint Michael associates! This is the real Vanity!” Zhorin exclaimed, his fingers flying across the keyboard, pulling up a grainy image of a woman walking down a busy street.

“Is that a child she is holding in her left hand?!” Zhugri asked, his voice barely a whisper, his heart pounding in his chest.

“It looks to be, and it looks like that is a car seat with a baby inside.” Zhorin replied, zooming in on the image, his expression grim.

“Is that our child?” Zhugri asked softly, his voice filled with a mix of hope and fear. A warmth spreading through him even though he was shocked. A wave of tenderness washed over him at the thought of being a father.

“It seems that way, I will check,” Zhorin replied, his gaze becoming extremely focused as his fingers flew across the keyboard in a flurry of keystrokes. Half an hour later, he stared at the information on the screen, his eyes wide with disbelief. “Brother, it’s our son.”

Zhengri leaned forward, his beautiful eyes squinting as he looked at the information his third brother had found. Standing tall, he pointed at the screen and laughed angrily, a harsh, grating sound that echoed through the room. “It’s her, and she is hiding,” he said through gritted teeth, his jaw clenched tight.

“She is a Saint Michael, Brother; she has a reason to hide. Though fallen, many still wish to find her to exploit her, to use her power for their own selfish gain.” Zhorin said softly, his fingers still busy, tracing the digital breadcrumbs Vanity had left behind. He understood well; she had suffered so much in her last life and then had to do it once again with a baby in tow. Though he wanted to be with her so bad his heart ached, he wanted her to be willful and happy, free from the burdens of her past.

“So many people are trying to hide her from us, what do you think?!” Zhugri replied in defense, his voice rising with barely contained anger. He would tear down anyone who stood between him and Vanity, he vowed silently, their lives forfeit

Once upon a bad Christmas

Chapter 24

A month passed in a blink, many things were set in motion, from activating various contingency plans to securing resources, and the once frazzled memory from transmigrating into this body had mostly been restored, fragmented memories slowly solidifying like curdled milk.

If I had not been the original author with a somewhat good memory, a blessing and a curse, I would have been helpless many times, lost in the intricate web of this world I created.

Sigh, but I wanted to live so this one must continue moving forward, no matter the cost.

Many things have changed though. I could say it is me, the original author, but I doubt it is only me; something else is at play. Like every fictional author, I am paranoid and in some cases weigh the pros, cons, and neutral, the scales constantly shifting.

There is no way I would only think about good and bad when there is always a grey area, nuances in between.

The little thing had gained some weight, chubby cheeks and a double chin, and his features have become even more exquisite, a true Saint Michael descendant, a miniature angel. I was proud, I had to admit, of this child.

The things were packed in sturdy, weather-resistant crates, and the people who arrived had been extremely meticulous, double-checking every item against a detailed inventory list.

Doctor Su spoke in a low tone, her voice extremely professional, her eyes sharp and assessing. “Your confinement was excellent, you followed the regimen perfectly, your body has recovered well. In six months from now, you can come for a check up to make sure everything is going well.”

I nodded silently, lamenting, sigh, it seems I will still have to come here, still trapped in this charade of normalcy. Well, everything should be finished by then, the preparations complete.

“Thank you, Doctor Su,” I said with a tight lipped smile while holding the little thing, the weight of him comforting and grounding.

“We’ll see you then, Miss Mi,” she replied, giving a small, almost imperceptible bow of her head, her gaze flickering to the baby before returning to me.

I turned away from her, focusing all my attention on the bundle in my arms. He gurgled softly, completely oblivious to the world around him, his tiny hand grasping at my finger, a surprisingly strong grip.

“Are you ready, ma’am?” one of the men asked, his voice polite but firm, eyes alert, scanning the surroundings. They were efficient, which is what I liked and wanted. Those who waste time can only die faster.

“Yes,” I said, my voice barely a whisper, laced with anticipation and dread. “Let’s go.” There was a private lift accessible only to those in the VIP ward. This was to prevent media and other unwanted mishaps from happening to the new mothers who were distinguished guests. The first time out of my rooms since I previously only wanted to focus on the child and recovering.

My steps were sure as I moved forward, the marble floor echoing with the click of my shoe, a rhythmic beat against the silence. The wide leg pants fluttered each time I moved, hips swaying with each step. I had gained some much needed weight, after all I am a mother, and I like this size; it was more healthy especially for a woman who was 1.8m tall.

In the underground garage a dark sleek SUV waited, its tinted windows reflecting the dim light.

A seat was provided in the back to place the child thinking of his safety, securing him I took a seat beside him, while two of the other males sat on the opposite side and two others in the front which included the driver.

The car slowly drove forward, I turned my gaze to look at the surroundings, tall buildings, busy streets, the cityscape blurring past, a stark contrast to what awaits…sigh, it was so similar, yet so fragile.

“Miss Mi, will we be returning to the old house?” Rekuren asked, his voice breaking the silence.

“Yes,” I replied leaning back and closing my eyes but extremely alert, every sense heightened, ready for anything. From city D to village F will take more than nine hours, adding a few stops by the way, a carefully planned route to gather supplies.

“Miss Mi, we will be arriving at the first stop soon,” Rekuren announced.

“Alright,” I said sitting up and reaching for the diaper bag to prepare the formula first. I looked at the little one who stared up in space and smiled, his eyes wide and innocent.

One of the males passed me the flask filled with hot water and the other the formula, both in sterilized containers. I mixed them all efficiently and then fed the child.

“Rekuren, your family, have you begun to move them?” I inquired.

“Miss Mi, I have,” he replied passing taking back the flask and placing it in the bag, his expression unreadable. “And Curren?”

“My mother is already in the village, overseeing the preparations.”

“Good, remember that all family members listed are accepted, no more. Any with grievances are not welcomed, loyalty is paramount.”

“Miss Mi understood.” Curren.

“Of course, Miss Mi,” Rekuren.

Satisfied I leaned over and fed the little thing, a satisfied smile gracing my lips.

For the remaining time I said nothing further but simply looked at my surroundings while looking down at the map. All of these such routes, I would have to memorise if I wanted to avoid certain areas after the world ended, escape routes and safe havens etched into my mind.

To be a good samaritan I also informed the government and those across the world.

At least I did. If I did not try, it would be boring otherwise to watch everyone suffer in despair without understanding anything much. Of course because some people tend to be greedy, I spread it across major platforms, anonymous posts and leaked documents, sowing the seeds of panic and preparation.

The vehicle came to a standstill, in a smooth motion I picked up the car seat and walked forward.

Once upon a bad Christmas

Chapter 23

“Alright, sell the cars and apartments, all the assets, pool them together and slowly shift them over the seven months. I will send the information and instructions to you.” A subtle, calculated transfer of wealth.

“Alright Miss Mi, then I will go and do as you asked.” He bowed again, his face a mask of polite obedience.

“Thank you Accountant Yen,” I said with a nod, focusing on the little thing that began to silently fuss, picking him up as Accountant Yen left and closed the door gently. I began to feed the little thing. The rhythmic sucking calmed my nerves, a grounding presence in the midst of chaos.

Finish feeding the little thing and burping him, I looked at the door which slowly opened. I slipped from the bed as the person who entered rushed forward with comfortable slippers. “Miss, please put on the shoes.” She said in a panicked tone. I slipped them on while holding the little thing carefully, standing firm with a dull pain. My body seems to be slow to heal right now. Childbirth was no joke!

Anyway, I stepped forward resisting the urge to wince at the pain that shot up my nether regions and pelvic area. Each step was a reminder of my physical vulnerability.

Ugh, can I scream like a cut-open pig? I really want to, I really don’t care about face, no really, I just gave birth so face doesn’t matter right now. I lamented inwardly but sucked it up like a true baddie and walked towards the window. “Have you done what I have instructed?” I asked looking outside. The city skyline stretched before me, a concrete jungle teeming with unaware souls. “Yes Miss, I have. The old house is still sturdy but it needs to be repaired badly, it also only has two sleeping rooms, dining area, kitchen, sunroom and tea room with an outhouse. The orchards though still provide income.”

Mother and the others have not returned to worship the ancestors in a long time. I suppose I should do it after my confinement. If I heal well, I will leave in thirty days.” A pilgrimage to honor the past.

“But—” she started but was cut off.

“Just have a room prepared for me with things for a baby boy. I have fallen, which is good because now I can focus on my son.” A new purpose, a new direction.

“Alright Miss,” she said, relieved, for now at least.

“Good Miss Si, your daughter did well.” A compliment, a veiled threat.

“Thank you Miss,” I smirked, still looking outside. There was a low sound in the room. “Your husband is ambitious Miss Si.” A dangerous trait.

There was a thump. I did not turn but I knew she was kneeling. “Miss Mi, this servant is ashamed and cannot control her man, please give me orders and this servant will—” Her voice trembled with fear and desperation.

“There is no need, simply leave him and continue doing your duty. Sort out all the legalities with the accountant and other servants while keeping it all confidential.” Efficiency is key.

“Yes, mad—Miss Mi,” she corrected herself, her voice barely audible.

“You may leave,” I dismissed her, my gaze still fixed on the horizon.

“Miss Mi, I have the things you have asked for.” The phone still in the case was provided, unlike the popular widely known brands this was a private company that made highly secure phones. “It is good you can get through to the Gorilla company,” I said with a smile, taking the exquisitely cased phone while balancing the child in the other hand.

I looked at it. It was made ultra thin but of special grade materials to resist heat and cold, solar charge and a battery life of two days. What made it even better is that it can unfold into a ten inch tablet with a projection function. This phone was worth thirty thousand. A significant investment in security and communication, a vital piece of equipment for my future survival.

Walking to the bed, I placed down the little thing and began opening the device. After opening the device, I quickly set it up and then began typing in a few searches. I smiled after finding what I wanted. I tinkered as ideas continued to form. It was rough but I have some time, they will have some and as they progress they will be given more, as for the finishing touches, I will finish it myself. The creation of something extraordinary, something uniquely mine, a symbol of my resilience. “My family has raised a few engineers and mechanics, right?” I asked softly. “Yes Miss Mi, the Mi family has. Some of those who had worked for the family for many generations have some sons.”

“Good, find them and inform them that I would like to see them a month from now, if we have any who can build,” I paused and sent over the rough blueprint I had quickly created. The blueprints were a collection of my ideas: aluminum finish, borosilicate glass to protect from extreme heat and cold, though it is not used in this way but tweaking some things will make it work well. Some areas outside will be coated with quartz and ceramic glass, magnesium and nickel alloy, some other materials can be added so the vehicle can look both beautiful and be lightweight so it can sustain its maximum speed.

Sigh, those things will be hard and expensive to source but it is ok. “Remember to pick discreet and trusting ones, if this leaks…” My words trailed off with a warning, sending the blueprints over to her, a chilling reminder of the consequences of betrayal.

“This servant will not disappoint Miss Mi.” The soft click of the door closing sounded her exit. I looked first to see if the little thing was still sleeping soundly, knowing that it will not be long before he woke again hungry.

I continued to tinker with my phone until the meal was brought in, a bland assortment of hospital food.

Looking outside I saw that the sun had set and it was dark, time seemed to fly, I thought silently.

Once upon a bad Christmas

Chapter 20

In the Mindspace, I stared off for a moment, the digital tapestry blurring before my eyes, before recovering my bearings. Time here is accelerated, twenty times faster than the real world, but it comes at a price: severe mental strain. I cannot enter for an entire week, once I enter, no matter what emergency.

It did not matter in the last life because it was not a hell mode unlike this one which shocked the hell out of me from the get go.

I felt like I missed something but could not pinpoint exactly what. I shook my head gently; it is normal, perhaps I will suddenly remember later.

Now is important; therefore, entering now is better, damn the headache. If I wait, the window of opportunity might slam shut. Every second counts when the clock is ticking down to world end.

I jolted, feeling annoyed. I mean; what the hell! This was not in the script!

It was supposed to only be a book to pass the time, after all, in that world—

I should not be here. I should have become one with the vast universe, a speck of stardust returning to its source. The system should have initiated the final reset sequence! I had earned my rest, deserved to be released from this endless cycle of reincarnation and suffering.

Have I not been obedient enough in the last world? Did I not fulfill all the objectives, overcome every obstacle, and sacrifice everything for the sake of the narrative?

What more did they want from me?

The unending visions, the cries of agony, pain, and their desperate begging for vengeance haunted my waking moments, echoing in the silence of my mind. The weight of their unfinished business pressed down on me, a crushing burden of guilt and responsibility.

How could I not back then?!

Their suffering had been so palpable, their pleas so desperate, that I had no choice but to act, to become their instrument of justice.

(Host mentality unstable…)

I did not write because I wanted to be famous, to bask in the adulation of readers, or because of a broken heart; I have long been immune to the petty dramas of romance. Heh, oh no, no, no, I wrote because of them!

Like a fucking haunting, their voices clawing at the edges of my sanity, demanding to be heard.

‘Save me!’ a whisper, desperate and pleading.

‘I died so unjustly, and they all blamed me!’ a furious accusation, filled with bitterness and resentment.

‘I was the darling of heaven!’ a lament, laced with nostalgia and a profound sense of loss.

‘My children!’ a primal scream of maternal anguish, echoing across the void.

‘My family!’ a mournful cry for connection, severed by tragedy.

(Administrating calming effect…)

Over and fucking over their cries in my damn ears, like a cacophony of suffering that threatened to shatter my mind.

(Failed…)

If I sit and want to just stare off in that life, the mundane act of gazing out the window would be instantly replaced by a flood of horrific images, each one more disturbing than the last. A constant, unrelenting barrage of trauma.

(Retrying…)

I had to bow my head and beg to be released from this haunting, to be granted a moment of peace, but they wanted the world to know their stories, to expose the injustices they suffered.

I wanted to be lazy! But I was forced to write over and over again, compelled by an unseen force to chronicle their lives and deaths.

So why? Why am I here, stranded in this decaying world when the world is about to end with a faulty memory!?

(Failed…)

Heh, they saw a woman so old in age, a withered crone burdened with the weight of countless lives, but so beautiful regardless, her eyes holding the wisdom and sorrow of the ages. As a lover of beauty in all its forms, I sacrificed my —

(increasing dose x2)

Ahhhhh!!! I roared and screamed, venting the pent-up emotions, a primal release of pain and frustration that echoed through the room, before releasing a shuddering breath, which began to calm me somewhat. The pressure in my head eased slightly, the voices fading into a dull hum.

(calming…)

It did not matter; I am here now, and I have a life to protect, a tiny, vulnerable being who depends on me for survival.

Should I say I am lucky or unlucky? I’m definitely unlucky, cursed with this impossible situation, but maybe a little lucky to have been given a second chance, a purpose to fight for. Who knows which exactly.

Sigh, with the half-baked system, and adding in my transmigration here seems to be rather trippy. Well, at least it helped me stay sane, or as sane as I could be in this situation.

I glanced at it, the flickering icon in the corner of my vision, and looked away, thinking of repairing it to an extent later, to at least make it somewhat useful. It flickered erratically in the corner of my vision, like a damn eyesore. I sneered and looked away, though I was grudgingly grateful for its existence.

Back then, when I died in my first world, this thing had appeared, like an ignorant lamb to the slaughter. I accepted it.

For so long, I had drifted in the void, a disembodied consciousness yearning for a lifeline. I should have just continued drifting, embraced the nothingness.

If not, I would not have to be a mother without even doing the ‘deed’! The irony was not lost on me.

Am I Mary?

Cause I feel like Mary right now, okay~.

In the space with my corporeal form, with many miscellaneous things spread out as far as the eyes could see; plots with vegetables and fruits, carefully cultivated rows of tomatoes, peppers, and leafy greens, a warehouse with dried goods and different clothes and shoes, neatly organized shelves stacked with canned goods, preserved meats, and a rainbow of fabrics. Even a corner where a pile of gems of various colours shimmered invitingly, raw diamonds, emeralds, and rubies glinting under the ethereal light.

New cover photo I hope you like, each stage a new one will be added.

Once upon a bad Christmas

Chapter 22

“Little one, we must survive, mother did us dirty and surviving is hell mode a few months from now,” I said softly. A sigh escaped me.

I have a few months left to be carefree, it would be best to celebrate as many festivals as I could and also stock up on some things. Enjoy the calm before the storm.

This body usually celebrates many festivals though a bit less lowkey since losing her status as heiress. The family fortune dwindled, but the traditions remained.

Qingming Festival falls in early April, typically around the 4th or 5th. I can use that occasion to properly worship the ancestors of this body, offering incense and paper money at their graves in the sprawling family cemetery. After all, it’s because of their lineage that I can live again in this world and have the chance to become a mother.

Labor Day is on the first of May, a national holiday usually celebrated with a three-day weekend, with parades and outdoor activities. The Dragon Boat Festival, with its delicious zongzi and exciting dragon boat races, is in late May or early June, depending on the lunar calendar. Mid-Autumn Festival, or Zhongqiu, with its full moon viewing and mooncakes, is in late September or early October, a time for family reunions and heartfelt wishes. And the Golden Week holiday, perfect for travel and relaxation, also falls in October, coinciding with National Day. I should visit some historical places to further enjoy myself because you know…what will happen later. 

Even the poor know how to celebrate and by selling off some useless things, like those gaudy designer handbags, I can live well. It is best to figure out my living conditions and that cramped apartment is unworthy of me, especially with so many people inside one building. A sanctuary away from the chaos, a fortress against the impending doom.

Five hours did not take long to pass and as if on time two figures filled in. “Miss Mi, I am back,” Doctor Si said, her voice filled with a weary concern.

“Mm, come, I have some things for you to do,” I said, my voice still raspy from disuse.

“Yes, miss Mi.” As she slowly approached closer I began to speak. “I would like a phone with a secure line, check and see if the old house in the country is in need of repair, come back to me with the results.” I turned from doctor Si and turned to the other person, trying to remember who he was, “Miss, this is the accountant. He had said he wanted to come and congratulate you so I brought him here.”

“Alright, go and do what I have asked first and return as soon as you can, also inform your mother and have her come.” A meeting with the matriarch was long overdue.

“Yes miss Mi,” I watched her leave the room clutching her tablet which probably had all the medical records. She scurried away, her face etched with anxiety.

“Miss Mi, it is a pleasure to see you and congratulations,” Accountant Yen said, bowing respectfully.

“Thank you accountant Yen,” I replied with a nod. “Tell me what you want to say,” the middle aged man looked nervous, just like myself, my character loved beautiful, pretty and handsome people, if they had any flaws they were never to serve me. Perfection was a requirement, not a suggestion.

Accountant Yen had already began to have a receding hairline but he had decided to become bald, with his handsome face it gave him a more imposing look, adding to the fact he was 1.8 meters tall, broad shouldered with a fit form it made him pleasing to the eye which elevated my mood. I tapped my fingers impatiently, waiting for him to speak.

When he didn’t I decided to simply asked the pressing question first. “Tell me how much cash do I have on hand?”

“Miss Mi, you have exactly six hundred million yen in cash,” He rattled off the numbers, his voice barely above a whisper.

“The other assets?” I probed, eager to know the full extent of my resources.

“Well, the cars were sold, you only have two which are totaled at eight million, the two apartments in A city with the value presently significantly higher are now 600,000 yen for the two bedroom, three bathroom. 850,000 yen for the three bedroom with the lake view in C city. The investment in B city with Bokanna Jewelry has been good with a record high the last three months of nine million. Miss Mi, should I include the inheritance and the old house?”

“Yes,” I confirmed, my interest piqued.

“The inheritance was 6 billion worth of bonds and a hundred million of gold, the old house is valued at four hundred thousand, with about 50 acres of fertile farm land included it is valued at six hundred and fifty. Included is the apple, orange, strawberries, lemon, and peach orchard. If sold to the government again it should be six times that, since the value has risen because of the productional income from the orchards and it also includes some good sights.” An unexpected windfall.

I nodded feeling happy with this, if I go to the old house in the country it would be a safe haven when things go bad in a few months. The fruit orchards are good, which makes us have an income for a time, it is a pity that the plants will mutate. I bit my lip thinking that after the last harvest I would uproot them and later sow as to avoid such danger. The thought of those mutated fruits, grotesque and poisonous, sent a shiver down my spine.

To store them, a few months could work by placing them in a cellar separated from the other fruits and the majority can be dried and fermentated, as for the apples they can be stored with some sand and some straw, as for the strawberries sigh, they would have to be mostly preserved, those things rot quickly which is annoying anyway, sugar and honey works well with them, anyway all the fruits and nuts even vegetables can be stored or turned into something else; peaches to wine, jam, and the blossoms as well, and as for the excess they can be quickly sold off. Waste nothing.

Now I will also need transportation, trucks, tractors, trailers and even some mobile homes in case something dire happens and I have to flee though it should not be necessary as the house was on a hill. A contingency plan for the worst-case scenario.

Thinking about mobile homes, an off road camper, in my last life I had one which was used when travelling for book signing. A nostalgic reminder of a simpler time.

With this thought in mind I decided to sell the cars and apartments and invest it in repairing the property in the country, of course it has to be done so that it will become a mobile home and as such it will cost money and lots of it. It had been in the family for more than two thousand years so every possible part must be used and protected. A connection to the past, a legacy to uphold.

Ehm, I secretly patted myself for writing such nonsense even though everyone else almost drowned me in spit saying that what I wrote was not correct. Critics were always so quick to judge, so slow to understand.

Again guys, its fiction, as something made up with some few key names I can wing it until I fly like a true bird, ok. The rules of reality are flexible when you’re the author.

And thankfully I did, which gave me a beautiful fall back. Anyway in my original world and the previous one the development with motor homes were advanced enough to be used. I could not understand how people could rush to a base forced to bow their head and live below their means when they could have a motor home and a few capable people. Freedom over conformity, self-reliance over dependence.

This is the way it is supposed to be when—

Anyway, my son will be raised in danger so he will always know how to fight back and see the darkness of humanity when they lose all hope. A harsh lesson, but a necessary one.

Once upon a bad Christmas

Chapter 21

A transparent screen was brought up displaying a profile, the system interface projecting information about my current state. I looked at the present information belonging to the body and what I had brought with me.

What I had brought over was not important, anyway, I had tried shortly after giving birth and it seemed to be impossible to access the space, which had me depressed for a while, but what the original owner—myself in this timeline—had, remained stubbornly fixed, which was not a bad thing. The memories were fragmented and disorganized, a jumbled mess of emotions and experiences, like trying to piece together a shattered mirror.

First, though, the rest of the memories must be properly digested and sorted so the fragmented mess can make some sense. 

After concentrating a bit, my head ached less and everything seemed clearer.

The memories flowed in order, like a river carrying me through the currents of her life, allowing me to fully understand and compare, contrasting her experiences with my own and coming up with a plan to move forward instead of continuing to be half-blind. Snippets of childhood, then early adulthood and then shortly before my tragic appearance, the events leading up to the chandelier incident.

She was thirty-two, her fall from grace, the main house that has been abandoned for years, the mother—eh? Mother?

A living, breathing, present mother?

Not a ghost, not a memory, but an actual, living relative.

I was stunned for a moment because I usually kill off the parents to make the characters seem more tragic, to add a layer of both tragedy and mystery to their stories, but now the mother was still alive, wandering around somewhere.

I paused deep in thought for a moment because this information has changed many things, potentially altering the entire course of the story. It opens up possibilities I never considered.

I specifically remember writing that originally this body was supposed to live until it was fifty, a life of quiet contentment stretching out before her. A comfortable, predictable.

That was what I had written, right? I distinctly remember planning her death in a blaze of glory, ehm, starvation to save another girl who was hungry.

Of course, I made sure to describe how her body began feeding on itself and all other wonderfully gruesome part! The degradation of muscle tissue, the hollowed eyes, the slow, agonizing fade into oblivion.

I also remember how the readers said I was sick and after writing millions of words about this character, I simply killed her off as a stepping stone for a white lotus, green tea venemous snake. Among other insults.

Honestly, the original body in the book I published died in a satisfactory way, a poignant sacrifice that solidified her status as a tragic heroine, until I became her and appeared in the discarded drafts because I changed the ending to starvation instead of the common being shoved in a zombie pile.

As the author I remember the description to a T. How she was eaten, how she screamed, how she begged for death.

SHE DID NOT DIE IN A SATISFACTORY WAY AT ALL!

Who wants to be here?!

I dont want to be here! The thought echoed in my mind, a desperate plea for escape, a primal scream against the injustice of my situation.

In my mind space, I struggled not to hyperventilate, to maintain some semblance of control over my spiraling emotions. I mean, combine my first and second life, I am an old lady, burdened with the memories and experiences of centuries, and just for kicks, add the thirty-two of this one.

Now somewhat calm, I continued to go through the present plot of this life, sifting through the mundane details and searching for clues. I focused on the immediate threats and opportunities, pushing the existential dread to the back of my mind, at least for now.

The mother is still alive, where is she? Is she a loving parent, a source of support and guidance, or a manipulative monster, scheming to control my life for her own gain?

No idea. Completely MIA. No trace of her, no explanation for her absence. Well I am an adult now so it didn’t really matter much.

Moving on swiftly~.

There were more pressing matters to attend to.

Like how I only had until Christmas to be prepared for what is to happen later, the inevitable crisis that loomed on the horizon, but what if I suppress the memory and surprise myself?

Wipe my mind clean of the impending doom and experience it all anew?

Would that not be exciting?

It would be like watching my own story unfold, with me as the clueless protagonist, stumbling blindly towards disaster.

Would that not be exciting? No, probably not. More likely, it would be a recipe for disaster, leaving me vulnerable and unprepared when the shit hit the fan.

As a mother with a baby, life seems like a tragedy, but the body had those who served her well and the two pets that lurked in her shadow.

Were those people who served the original fully honest?

To make them serve faithfully, to ensure their unwavering obedience, it is best to make them fear me from the depths of their soul. A little fear goes a long way, a subtle reminder of the consequences of disobedience.

Would such thoughts not be beautiful?

A sinister smirk graced my lips, a fleeting glimpse of the darkness that lurked within. I tapped on the screen and patiently waited.

(Host the system is in self repair but your request for specific memory suppression can be enabled. After the system will continue to hibernate. Host will have to find other opportunities once the world ends to survive. Host is now a mere human with a little more strength.) The robotic voice echoed in my mind, a constant reminder of my diminished state.

“The world ending is so beautiful, such opportunities to play is so beautiful!” 

I spoke softly, my voice filled with a chill. After composing my true self, I exited the mind space and sighed, looking at the sleeping thing. He stirred in his sleep, a soft gurgle escaping his lips.