Once upon a bad Christmas

Chapter 19

Notice: Blended POV

I was stunned, the words hitting me like a physical blow. Could I not keep what I had gained, the power I had so painstakingly accumulated?

I had struggled so much and so long, endured countless trials and tribulations. “You had turned such a weak universe to something more, a vibrant tapestry of life and energy. The male, a world consciousness—”

“Mother!” I cried out, cutting her off, the word laced with a desperate plea. I trembled, finally feeling fear, a cold dread creeping into my heart. I was extremely unwilling to accept it, to relinquish the power I had fought so hard to control again, but who made her so powerful and me unable to resist?

Bowing my head, I obeyed, the gesture feeling like a complete surrender. Feeling my original form flash before my eyes, a fleeting glimpse of my former glory, before reverting to the weakest and most common humanoid shape, a vessel of flesh and bone. I had finally been able to shift to it after so long and it was gone again just like that, ripped away from me like a stolen dream.

I ached so much, my very being rebelling against this forced transformation. Who wanted to be human!? To be trapped in such a fragile, limited form?

“You also wish to forget, to shed the burden of your memories. Then be ignorant for a while, embrace the simplicity of human existence, once supreme bow thy head and forge your own path. As for the system you are so proud of creating, let it help restrain you in some ways and guide you on a path only one of progression can, and that male you have nurtured, the world consciousness you have taken such an interest in, he shall join you as well, if he is worthy he will find you, drawn to your essence across the vast expanse of the multiverse. If not…” Her voice trailed off, leaving the unspoken consequences hanging in the air.

I groaned in pain, the transformation agonizing, unwilling to revert to that form, a cage of flesh and bone. Even if I was wearing the skin of those weak creatures, inhabiting their limited perspective, I knew what and who I was to an extent, a fragment of a being far beyond their comprehension.

Who wants to be weak all their life when they were previously strong? To feel the limitations of mortality when they had once commanded the very forces of creation?

No one but a fool.

Unfortunately, my mother saw me as a failure who must be strengthened, taught a lesson in humility and restraint, which caused my form to warp, twist and snap, bones cracking and reforming, flesh rearranging itself in a grotesque parody of creation, turning into… a human. I struggled to resist, fighting against the inevitable, but was unable to resist the one who brought me into existence, the architect of my very being.

Lady Khaos reversed everything just before she had sucked in her offspring’s mindspace, severing the connection and casting her adrift.

She, as her mother and creator, has tried her best to guide her daughter, even if her methods seemed harsh and unforgiving.

“They are hunting her now,” Lady Khosmah spoke into the void, her voice echoing with concern, as if detaching from the darkness and stars a form took shape, coalescing from the swirling chaos.

A deep voice, as if echoing many, spoke in a deep tone. “As our offspring she is not that weak. She is the first savage; earning that name was not empty. She will endure.”

Lady Khosmah turned to look at the confused offspring who had most of her memory suppressed. “Mm, true. She has done well with that thing called a system, using it to manage her power and influence, but that universe—”

The form became that of a male; his three heads showed various expressions, each reflecting a different aspect of his personality, but had one mind, a unified consciousness. The four arms reached out to their female drawing her close, a protective embrace against the dangers of the multiverse.

“That male, he is more than a world consciousness; he is a kindred spirit, a being of immense potential. It is fine, he is worthy of her choice,” the being whispered, his form solidifying, becoming more defined and tangible. His flowing hair filled with stars flowed around them like an ever-moving river of light; the six beautiful eyes had eyes only for her, radiating an ancient love and unwavering devotion; the milky white skin seemed to be aglow, as if sprinkled with glittering dust, a testament to his celestial nature.

“It hurts, but we have lost too many offspring to these conflicts, their power consumed by the machinations of others,” Lady Khosmah said in a choked tone, her voice filled with sorrow.

The male frowned, remembering that imposter, the being who had dared to usurp their daughter’s power. If he had not been too late he would have allowed Sava to kill her instead of allowing her move around possessing half of his offspring’s power.

As if thinking of something, his left head spoke, his voice sharp and decisive, “Leave her; let her face the trials ahead. If she lives through them, she is worthy of our legacy; if not, treat it as another failed offspring, a regrettable but necessary loss.” A sneer covering his handsome, ethereal features, reflecting his ruthless pragmatism.

Lady Khosmah thought of something then detaching a part of herself, she paused to look at her mate who had merged.

“It has been a few universal years since we have spent time with our offspring and had never spent time with this one, never witnessed her struggles or triumphs first hand.” She waited, continuing to shape her form and memories, crafting a persona that would allow her to blend seamlessly into the mortal world. “It would be interesting to live a few human years without worries, to experience the joys and sorrows of their fleeting existence.” She did not say anymore but disappeared moments later, fading into the shadows, three shadows followed soon after.

Once upon a bad Christmas

Chapter 18

Notice: blended POV

From the void, a form appeared, shimmering with an energy that both attracted and repelled.

“You were once tasked with the responsibility of overseeing numerous matters without intervening, serving as both the giver of life and the provider of death, a delicate balance you were meant to uphold. You were commanded to resist the temptations of direct influence, but ultimately, you failed.” As the form slowly took shape, coalescing from swirling motes of light and shadow, it spoke. The voice was beautiful, resonant with the echoes of countless stars and the celestial singing of angels. The being was singular in appearance, but the voice was a legion, a chorus of raw power that one could not ignore nor resist, even if they desperately wanted to. “Due to your failure, the overwhelming power you possess, the very essence of your being, is on the verge of engulfing you, tearing you apart. Consequently, you have been transported to this multiverse, a place of countless possibilities and even more dangers.” Only from the subtle inflections of the voice, a cadence like the gentle chime of distant bells, could one discern it was female, but the form itself was one with the darkness, absorbing the ambient light, leaving countless unseen eyes to stare down at the form, so tiny it was not even as big as one of her eyes, a speck in the grand tapestry of existence.

“However, time and again, across the vast expanse of existence, you have proven unsuccessful. Throughout multiple lifetimes, each a fleeting echo of your former glory, you have struggled to understand the purpose of your existence. Now, as your final opportunity, the decision to merge with the multiverse, surrendering to its endless flow, or fight for survival, clinging to the last vestiges of your former self, rests solely in your hands.” The being had many thoughts but they will not be voiced. This unruly offspring had suffered and had many grievances, but it had to still obey regardless.

“I have given birth in this body, felt the warmth of creation within it. Can I abandon it so easily?” I said, feeling no fear for the being which had suddenly appeared within my mindspace, a place that should have been inviolable.

The being who appeared within my mindspace, radiating a familiar maternal aura, was indeed my mother.

Lady Khosmah paused for a few beats, each beat echoing with the rhythm of creation itself. In that duration, she was witness to numerous instances of life and death across countless realities, the rise and fall of civilizations, the birth and death of stars, all contained within the span of a breath as she turned to look at the tiny speck which represented her offspring, a spark of her own essence flickering weakly.

A portion of her form, a tendril of pure energy, was extended in order to preserve the life of another young, infusing it with a fraction of her own divine spark, resulting in several events transpiring across a myriad of timelines. However, in her perspective view, a being whose existence predated the very concept of time, it barely consumed any time at all, as it had no impact on her existence, who was not even a thought when the universe came to be.

Refocusing on the young before her she continued to communicate again through the bond connecting them, a link woven from the very fabric of their shared essence. “It will follow the same fate as you, consumed by your own untamed power if left unchecked. It is your offspring, born from your very form. Are you ignorant enough to believe that this body and life are just spontaneous occurrences, devoid of meaning or consequence?” As for this offspring who had been previously a spectator to this cosmic drama, her mind was not stable, fractured by the strain of her immense power. She saw the daughter part her lips and began to speak. “Mother, I…” Her excuse was nothing, she knew it was not. These lives were all hers after all; the soul fragments within were her own, echoes of her own fragmented consciousness.

Lady Khosmah had killed off some of her offspring, yes, but those were in drastic situations, when their power threatened to unravel the very fabric of reality. She birthed them, so she will care for them, even in this strange, detached way, because they came from her, extensions of her own being, just like this one who had suffered the most, bearing the brunt of her mistakes.

This offspring is extremely naïve! Still clinging to such fleeting and insignificant things.

The realm, which had swallowed up this offspring’s mindspace for a time, a place once of swirling colors and many other Miscallaneous was shaken by a chuckle, emanating a distinctly feminine quality, echoing through the infinite space.

The gaze scanned it breifly in appreciation, this offspring had tried with such limited power she had acheived a lot of things, but it is just a pity.

I sensed an impending dread,I wanted to resist with every fiber of my being, yet I found it impossible, like trying to hold back a tidal wave, particularly when Mother Dearest uttered once more, her voice laced with a hint of amusement. “You have had your way for millions of universal years, indulging in your whims and fancies. It is time for you to understand certain things as my daughter, to learn the responsibilities that come with such power.”

Looking at the mother before me, a being of unimaginable power and ancient wisdom, I felt furious suddenly, a childish rage bubbling up within me, “Mother, how could you say that?! I had been fighting before just because I sought to—” my words were cut off by a sharp gaze. There was nothing that I could do because I was powerless in her presence, and she was correct. I had my way for too long.

Still, someone who had died twice after finally finding a worthy life is punishment enough, no?

“A fraction of your power is all you shall have, enough to survive but not enough to wreak havoc, after all even a world, galaxy and universe have their own rules, to be fair one should be restricted and obey.” 

Once upon a bad Christmas

Chapter 17

What should I do now? 

Should I be as dramatic as previously?

“I am hungry,” I said, feeling my stomach about to touch my back, it has been a while since I last ate. “Miss, this is understandable. You already eat more than the average person and now that you are nursing the young master it is worse.” the doctor spoke up in a soft tone rising from her seat and tapping the wristband on her wrist. 

“Don’t worry miss, the food will be here soon.” 

As the door slid open, a cart was brought in, not long later. Looking up, I struggled not to drool. I casually but carefully picked up the sleeping child, carefully placing him in the space between my legs and proceeded to prepare for scrumptious my meal. 

Compared to the previous meal, this one includes a slightly higher number of options, including two soups, five side dishes, and three meat dishes. A woman, whose identity remains unknown, made her way inside, bringing along a sizable pot. Another, who carried exquisitely crafted cups, followed her. 

A smile adorned my lips as I gazed upon the duo. While tea was favoured by numerous people, I personally have a preference for infused water. The soaking process includes a variety of fruits, such as cinnamon, ginger, or lemon, which may vary according to my mood of course, once the water is finished, I can eat the fruits so that explains a lot in itself. Due to a hint of laziness, I kept up this consistency anyway I did not break character even though my memory was faulty. 

What is the reason behind the sudden introduction of tea?

My smile was brighter, as my mind raced with various brain-dead scenarios.

Sigh, being an author can be so tiring.

Oh, ho, I guess those people are anxious and my location has been compromised. Was what stood out the most.

“You were hungry for so long. Have a meal,” I whispered, smiling sweetly at the two who entered. 

A thick fog obscured the atmosphere within the room suddenly; however, undeterred, I extended my hand towards the bowl of soup and began consuming it in small, pleasurable sips. In the background, one could hear the echoes of screams filled with terror and pain, which were soon followed by the melodious sound of flesh tearing and bones snapping. 

“Do not stain the ground. It is a bad omen,after giving birth.”

I said, placing a few pieces of meat in my mouth and polishing off the remaining side dishes before relaxing. A while later, the two women who entered last disappeared, leaving behind the pot of tea and exquisite tea cups behind. They were placed neatly in the corner, as if the person was cautious about such exquisite items. 

Well, I actually liked them, so they were quite thoughtful, ill feed them more in the future.

Burping softly, I reached out and touched the little thing, wondering if he would grow up to be a monster as well. 

Ultimately, I must admit that I am a monster, even though many excuses can be thrummed up as to why a life like mine in that life had been as it was. 

The tray was taken away, not long later by small steady white hands. “It seems that I have tolerated too much for too long.” I said softly, to no one in particular . “Miss is correct. Would you like me to make a move?” there was delight in that softly spoken voice which replied in question.

I thought for a moment, would it be worth it to show my hand so early? 

“No,” I said softly, “You may leave. I don’t want to be disturbed for the next five hours.” I closed my eyes ready to take a nap. “Miss, I will see you later.”

I nodded, frowning and closing my eyes.

“Protect,” I whispered, sinking deep into myself with my eyes closed. Ah, it has been so long, Living those lives as if I was really normal had been nice but…

One can try to forget their Origins but they will always be there, it is like a villain trying to be a hero only to become an antihero.

Then again, with an origin like mine, who would want to remember it?

Who would want to really wish to remember that an imposter had taken everything from her, forcing me to living like this?

Soul scattered and created into a book!

Unwilling to remember but also unwilling to forget. 

That imposter took my mates, my children and even my original form. 

Collapsing, over and over because of her.

The path from the future was a war, and I had many sisters and another life.

 The matriarch of my lineage bore the title of Lady Darkness, the progenitor of the Kazmethik-kin. Some even referred to her as Lady Khaos. We had our own times and each time we died we were given a few chances to correct the mistakes done, and to come back stronger. 

In all honesty, I had no desire to really live again.

We were older than the multiverse.

Born beyond it and only dwelled within it to be protected from ‘them’.

I was unable to die but was without a solid form forced in a way to explore this multiverse. I was trapped within without Kin, all because of a mistake.

I find myself in a state of profound loneliness. The sensation was sufficient to cause even the most rational person to lose their sanity. As one who had created so many worlds and species, it should have been impossible, but it seems… even the greatest must fall at some point. 

Until I concluded an idea, yes, concluded.

I explored many secrets and so everything I discovered I wrote. Unknowingly, yet knowingly, it was a part of a life that I had lived before.

 As one world replaces another, my soul finds itself unable to sustain its physical vessel, for it is our minds that tragically hold the key to our sanity. For example, Gaia, initially classified as a Kazmethik-kin, opted to evolve into a world core instead of upgrading into a multi-universe.

I looked down on her for being so ignorant, but who am I to judge after becoming the weakest species known as a humanoid from her own realm? 

yet, during the battle between a mad Queen betrayer, and the treasonous one, who forced the collapse of many realms, timelines, and universes I understood her power, who evolved and still existed.

So being an ‘ant’ is not a bad thing. Then I hated myself suddenly.

I hate to understand; I hate to see, and they also hate to remember.

I have fallen so far as a punishment for refusing to adhere to the rules of my mother the great lady Khaos. 

Why though?

Someone stole my life, my mates and offspring, am I supposed to bow my head and accept my fate?

Should I not erase her from exisitence, I had been so close!

So what if she too suffered as a wolf, forced to be a spiritual being unable to have a solid body?

What about me?!

I had been the darling of heaven in a life but she wanted to even steal that. 

Imposter!

Hate!

Now with my mates! She is living well with my offspring!

It is a pity that dear ole mother dearest tossed me here in this backward universe, making me such a pathetic creature, forgetting and then remembering. 

Would I bow my head willingly?

Never!

So I created a system to help me explore, and I was a witness to many things.

Heh.

 I can’t remember how long I was in the world.

 I’ve seen many planets thousands of times that of Gaia. 

 I’ve seen the beast which dwelled in the vast starry night sky. 

I’ve seen their Creation, seen their destruction and the creation of stars.

 Rise and fall of civilizations until I fell into a slumber, awakening in that world to live and suffer the tribulations of that life.

Certain people may find themselves separated by vast distances of hundreds of millions of light years, and the influence of formidable forces emanating from a higher plane can prompt the recognition that time holds no meaning. 

The Khaos kin can, yet, what am I now?

 What have I become? 

What is time?

What is remembering?

It was not until the interstellar confrontation between two mighty beasts that I emerged injured from a cosmic fracture, compelled to recollect all that had been lost and acquire an additional possession that is simultaneously mine and not mine. 

It should be a world in a book, a figment of imagination, but what I am made that quite unable to be just an imagination. 

I refuse!

So power to this world, power to my fractures who had suffered so, I will write their lives and live them, collecting that part of me and once again take back all that is mine.

As for those mates?

They should all die, I have btter anyway. 

(Warning! Collapse! Warning!)

Memories are a type of torture. One can bury them deep to continue living and exploring, fooling the mind.

The system existed for that, to relieve me of those burdensome memories, but now it has been damaged.

(Warning! Rioting possible! World…verge…col—)

Once upon a bad Christmas

Chapter 16

—Zhengri Hui the eldest triplet—

“You are such a handsome man.” A voice enough to seduce a monk whispered, her accent was thick and familiar to the man along with the scent of Cocobutter and Mangoes that seemed to cling to her skin. As a man he would usually resist such blatant advances, but the dark beauty leaning towards him with long thick feathered-like lashes looked up at him exposing golden eyes flecked with amber. He thought of a cat, specifically a Siamese, with their tilt and slightly elongated ends with the hook insides. Her skin had a light brown sheen and her features, though delicate, hinted she was Asian but only at a glance, her eyes her hair was thick and curly falling to almost the middle of her back exposing the fact she was Blasian.

He was seduced, unable to even resist her. “You are a beguiling beauty,” His deep magnetic voice replied in Cantonese, the words rolling off his tongue with a practiced ease. “How about it mega handsome, we both are single let’s shackle each other.” She said softly, her breath tickling his ear as she leaned even closer, the scent of mangoes intensifying. 

“Are you sure you can handle three of me?” He quirked an eyebrow, a hint of amusement dancing in his eyes.

“I can test drive you first, we can marry and have a mutual divorce if it doesn’t work out.” she leaned forward, her touch surprisingly strong as she pushed him back into the plush velvet of the bed and crawled to sit on his lap. “let me test drive you first.”

The man chuckled, low and deep, a rumble in his chest. It was covered but soft lips with the taste of mangoes quickly conquered his own. He could not help himself but wrap his arms around her smaller form refusing to let go. “You forced yourself into this situation, don’t regret it.” the smaller mouth was pried open, tongues entwined in a heated dance and the long night was a pleasure for one while the other was pain. 

The next day the man was left alone, a White diamond ring with tiny diamonds scattered like stars on his finger, body covered in marks and confusion swirling in his mind.

Zhengri Hui sat up with a start in the luxurious silk sheets of his bed, a knot of extreme frustration tightening in his stomach.

For him, the past year he was filled with flashes of that woman, her laughter, her scent, but unable to find her. He later learned, through discreet inquiries, that she was a fallen heiress, a woman with a scandalous past, who had suddenly disappeared from the social scene. 

His frustration continued to build until he was about to erupt from anger and need. How could he, a man accustomed to the finest things in life, continue to use his fingers after tasting a hole that was warm, wet and tight. Paired with the fact he still remembered it felt as though several small suctions were sucking, kissing and massaging his length from all directions driving him crazy. Her smell, her touch and beauty. 

It frustrated him to the point he wanted to explode and rage at everyone around him, from his personal staff to his business rivals. 

As a triplet, he had brothers who looked exactly like him, with the same personality, quirks and likes. 

This should have been normal for identical triplets but they could feel what the other felt, down to the soul level. 

The eldest Zhengri flipped the covers exposing a toned chest with bulging muscles from rigorous training, while his lower body was concealed by the midnight blue silk pajamas he favored. In the room he looked around resisting the urge to roar in frustration, the expensive paintings and designer furniture offering no solace. 

He did not understand that night they did everything, she should be easy to locate and take back but it was like she never existed. The first night with her was mostly under the grief of both himself and his brothers because of the loss of their clan on the island, which distracted him. What remained were those elders who wished to reach their hands further than they should, and biting off chunks of what they shouldn’t. 

It was eight months of tireless working, and strategic maneuvering in the corporate world, that allowed them to be once again in control. 

Then while he had that same dream of her, he also had another dream. 

In this dream, he was not a triplet but a single, with a friend, and similar features, but she was in love with someone else. 

He had the same name Zhengri Hui, his brother was surnamed Wen and the third Si. She had a family, a brother who was fifteen years older than her, he was married early and gave birth to a daughter who was only ten years younger than herself, he, his wife died suddenly and her mother leaving her and her father to care for the child under the guidance of paternal grandparents.

At eighteen he met her, she was already in love with someone and her devotion was all for him.

Anyway, they were engaged from her five and him seven, so it was good to be in love with your fiancé.

His family had been close to the Saint Michael family, practically neighbours and like them, the children spent some years on the island before returning to mainland China to further study and prepare to take over from their parents who preferred to retire back on the island.

The niece grew up and became a beautiful young girl, after being raised from eight to eighteen someone would at least be grateful, right?

Taking care of the niece. She loved her, treated her so well but she stole her man. 

What was the point of caring for a white eyed wolf?!

He was there and saw it all no matter how he tried to dissuade her she would not listen as if possessed.

The others tried as well but she would not listen, always stubborn until she broke down and disappeared. 

A family like hers were brutal, caring only for a granddaughter which was normal, after all she was not related to them but the father? He had married a wife and had his own family forgetting about the useful, smart daughter who had contributed so much to them, only to be discarded. 

The dream moved faster; him becoming a lawyer and her an author and further and further until it showed her death and the many things that happened after. It was as if the world was mourning her.

He had lived in that dream until he suddenly—

Zhengri was well aware it was not a mere dream but he had to find her first to confirm some things. Even if it was not a dream he had this life now and she was possibly here so he will find her first to get his answers. Zhengri looked down at his right hand and smirked, after all she was his Zhengri Hui’s wife!

Walking to the bathroom he quickly cleaned himself up walking out twenty minutes later refreshed and somewhat stable. From the link with his brothers, he felt that they too, had an issue similar to his own. 

Zhengri went down the winding staircase immaculately dressed in a tailored suit that cost more than most people’s cars. 

Though his face was indifferent and cold he was panicking inside just like his brothers. 

What was that dream and where is their woman?!

“Good morning Master Jun, the breakfast is almost finished.” The head butler, a man who had served the family for decades, said with a respectful bow. He nodded taking his seat at the long mahogany table that could easily seat twenty. For the next two weeks, he will be eating alone since his brothers will be busy with their respective jobs in Shanghai and Hong Kong. 

After that, he knows that they will have to discuss their situation. With their collective feelings for their missing woman, they will have to find her soon or they will continue to be tormented. 

The food was delivered, each dish meticulously prepared and presented by the kitchen staff. Zhengri ate it drinking the soup first and eating the others after, wiping his hand and mouth with the warm napkin provided.

The phone placed not far away vibrated, looking at the ID he decided to answer. “Brother, we have a lead! I think…I think I have found her,” On the other end was the second brother Zhugri Hui Whose voice sounded exactly like Zhengri’s but was presently filled with excitement.

”Where?” Zhengri asked, his voice tight, rising slowly to his feet, his knuckles turning white as he gripped the back of the chair.

“City B,” Zhugri replied, his voice crackling slightly over the line. “One of investigators we had hired said he had found someone with her description’.”

Zhengri’s mind raced but he asked, “Did he give you a name?”

“Yes brother…he said she is called Vanity Mi.” There was silence for a long time, except the strong sound of heavy breathing.

Zhengri was excited, his dream!

She was called Vanity Saint Michael but on the mainland she was called Vanity Mi!

“Send me all the information, I will take the private plane immediately.” zhengri Hui said hanging up the phone and rushing back to his room to change into something presentable.

Vanity is a woman who loves beauty, he had to be impeccable. He chose a dark blue suit, a crisp white shirt, and a silk tie with a subtle pattern, ensuring every detail was perfect.

Once upon a bad Christmas

Chapter 15

Notice: This disclaimer is provided to ensure respectful consideration of real-world individuals and organizations. While inspired by some actual events and societal structures, all names, characters, places, incidents, and timelines mentioned within this chapter/book are entirely fictional and products of the author’s imagination, created for narrative purposes within an alternate world setting. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events is purely coincidental and unintentional. The author strives to avoid causing offense and assures readers that any perceived similarities are not deliberate representations of reality. The story explores themes and ideas through a fictional lens, and should be interpreted as such.

Thank you for your understanding.

“Miss Mi, the walls still have ears, even if this subordinate has tried her best to check for any bugs.” A low voice sounded from the far left. 

Inwardly, I was shocked. I have no idea what’s going on but I pulled out those years of acting out the plotline in the last world; . “Miss Mi, I am sorry for speaking out of turn.” I turned and almost collapsed upon seeing the person nearby dressed as a doctor nearby. Several question marks appeared in my mind like the cartoons and my favourite question; 

Who? 

What? 

Where? 

Why? also popped up.

I frowned when information suddenly flooded my mind followed by a like throb. 

It has been less than a day since I have arrived, and though I am a hundred percent confused I became satisfied with the flooding information slowly filtering in. 

This original body is supposed to be a poor man!

Then I remembered the background of the orignal and was stunned further.

The Mi family is a group previously known for their secrecy. But what many didn’t know was that the Michael family are good at scheming. They will help many rise to the top or fall to the bottom.

it is said that the micro family were once cane farmers their origins were from either the Arawaks are the Caribs, so how did we end up with such dark skin and coarse hair?

I had to throw some logic among the hundreds of plot holes, you know.

I mean, in my life… ehm, right, I’ve croaked, so, it’s throughout my previous life, I had written fifty-one books.

One or two were, of course, unfinished, but fifty-one nonetheless. I mean, my shortest book was three million words and the longest about ten, with all…oh shit!

Back to the origin of the Mi family.

With Carib bloodlines in there, some readers who knew the so-called history would jump out like frogs, saying that they were a race of bloodthirsty people, but regardless, even if they may lean more on the Carib bloodlines (for the Caribs were known as bloodthirsty fighters), they killed an entire tribe wherever they went and conquered, leaving only a few remaining women to be used as breeders or to help raise the young.

Regardless as far back before the civilization of their small island was recorded, it was said that they came from an island which suddenly appeared outside of the grand chain islands in the Qourier’s ocean, in the north of the ocean. This island, though it was an outlier was still considered part of the other chains. Each chain island had their own unique words and ways. 

The island only held around 350,000 people. It was small, and they were known to keep to themselves only using their island for tourism and some minor exports. Even then, many did not know about the island. All they knew was that it produced crops, and it was attractive enough for tourists to spend and buy whenever they came.

The Michael family was always small. There was one female each birth which for some outside of the islands is a disappointment but for doors on the islands, women are held in a slightly higher regard, if not on equal footing as men.

Women took care of the home and worked while the men had their own time working and on weekends taking care of the home and the children giving the woman time to relax. The Michael family had used this as a core for many many generations and even when they left the island to go further into another place to call home for their reasons this cell adhered to that.

The first person to arrive on the island was the 3rd great-grandmother of the Michael lineage she was the last one to survive and had married her husband two years prior both had decided that leaving the island which has slightly changed, was for the best.

The man who was her husband had taken her name which was also a tradition of the Michael family of course, they had to change their name to Mi to suit those of the new country so drop in the last few letters of the Michael name they call their self Mi and continue using Michael whenever they returned Home to the islands.

Tradition is the foundation of a family, allowing them to continue to prosper. This is something that the Michael family had continuously promoted. The grandmother, even though she had a few things, it was not long before she was able to stabilize herself within the country.

A year later, the first daughter was born. 10 years later, the daughter was sent to the island and raised for six years to remember her roots and learn from the Michael family there.

After that, she was sent back to the country where she was further educated and learned to blend in with the people.

Normally, the Michaels’s would only marry those from among the chain islands but this daughter did not. In the school she found herself falling for a young man. Though he was quite handsome, he was not a family of much wealth. Inherited the scheme of this of the Michael’s family once she fell in love she decided to take the young man home. The young man in the end was an orphan, so this process was quite easy, at the age of 21 the two were married and three years later she gave birth to her daughter after that the daughter was sent to the island and raised for six years before she was sent back. This one did not do like her mother and married one of the males from the chain island moving to the country. The process continued until it was determined of vanity Michael. Many did not know but the Michael family are geniuses in their own right even though they are schemers. Someone is always ahead, and a trail is always left behind. Subordinates tend to be greedy and those who are greedy who are not caught in time cause those who once nurtured them to be mere casualties.

That is why the once scheming Michael family were wiped out and things that were once theirs had been all taken to be shared among the enemy. 

I added a plot twist this time because the secret this body had was enough to bring this country to its knees.

Tradition from a fallen island and tradition from a country that held sway across the world. Many asked why I would choose China?

Why not?

It is interesting and anyway there really were a few from Barbados I knew and they were to my taste.

A man willing to bow his head and treat you like his air, what woman would not want a man like that. 

Such a pity, my family did not approve then. 

Even if I adored them, it did not mean that I wanted to end up in this country where I had to watch my every move and with a little luggage in tow!

Well, I am comfortable now, though I was in pain after giving birth and considered a poor man.

Oh, and the island has been sunken due to various changes in the world.

I sneered, even though I am an expert at writing plot holes, there is something different.

I sucked in a breath processing the information going over it carefully then relaxed but remember that I have other people in the room, as if on cue one spoke. 

“Miss, I know this subordinate shouldn’t mention these things but, what happened-” I looked at the person, same doctor coat as the doctor Su who had left not long ago, but this time their head was bowed in submission and she was much younger. As a blasian, I did have chinese features but my skin was darker, my form cosidered ‘fat’ by their standards even though my waist was snatched and my hips broad. All in all, I had the hour glass figure of a black woman who ate her ground provision and meat well and paired with my tall height of 1.8m it gave me long legs that many would envy. 

The slightly tilted eyes were slightly long, the nose straight with a small curved near the tip, slightly protruding forhead and chin to give the perfect side profile and full lips, adding all of that I had hair that was thick and long with tight curls though now it was done in two inside cornrows. 

“Do not mention anything right now. Continue as is,” I said, while raking my brain for the character card for this damn person but cursing because this person was not even mentioned in the book. 

Ahhhh, why did I not elaborate further?!

The first book had too many errors, the world is flawed and the characters have changed, but praise the great creator—ehm…I think that is me. 

I gave myself an imaginary pat on the back then almost spit when I suddenly remembered something that also made the original owner a poor man.

Opportunities that should belong to this body were taken away.

Luckily I am here and can solve somethings. “Then miss this subordinate will take her leave.”

Looking down at the still-suckling child, a sinister smile graced my lips. The once-normal eyes flashed three colours before returning to normal. As for the newborn, he released a silent sigh, snuggling close to the warm body that held him close.

Once upon a bad Christmas

Chapter 14

After all the poor can not pull money from their teeth, it is really a sad life, In my last life I made so much money and had so many treasures, was so famous that several of my books were adapted into films and series, and investing in them allowed me to have a gorgeous pay out when they ranked both locally and worldwide. I had so much money that living alone was easy along with the casual skills I had picked up and the money my mother had left to me along with connections I had earned almost fifty years of my life alive back then since I only appeared when I was sixteen and died at sixty-three. I even had a private jet and a villa in the south of France.

Sigh, now this and so old but a poor man only able to rely on measure favours.

Even though I had inherited the memory merging it was still a bit of a process, so some things are not accurate, so i must still wait in case I slipped up later. There were gaps and inconsistencies, like trying to piece together a puzzle with missing pieces.

Regardless I went with the notion of talking less and allowing the doctor and nurses to do what they should.

Any way the body is still exhausted and will take a little time for me to heal. I could feel the lingering ache in my muscles and the heaviness in my chest.

“We have prepared your meal, Miss Mi, will you be eating it now?” Nurse Lu asked, gently pushing a rolling tray towards me. Looking at the side there was probably a small soup in a ceramic bowl and some other side dishes and at least two meats, enough for my body to continue producing enough nutrition for both myself and the little thing I had not too long pushed out. I felt my mouth water and my stomach protest. To keep with the character of a young lady who was weak but trying to be strong I nodded towards her.

I had learned from my first life after I had tried to break character outright, everything now has to be subtle. I can’t just start acting like a modern woman in this traditional setting without raising suspicion.

“Miss Mi, please,” The tray was pushed and uncovered showing me the wonderful meal for me to view. The aroma of ginger and chicken broth wafted up, making my stomach rumble even louder. “Will you be breastfeeding the baby Miss Mi?” The doctor suddenly asked appearing before me, I thought for a while thinking of the parasite I had no attachment to and wanted to shake my head but I changed my mind not long later, “I will,” it will be an experience and getting to know the little thing that I will raise until it is an adult. “By the way the baby is a boy, have you decided on what you wish to call him?”

“No, I will wait for his full moon to decide, regardless, he will carry the surname Mi so for now just call him young master Mi,” I said regardless of how those around me will react. This was a non-negotiable point.

“Ok, before you eat let me check your blood pressure quickly, before it was higher than normal.” I nodded to the doctor relaxing with my eyes closed once again to allow her to do her job. A few minutes passed with positive results and the baby was brought over, swaddled in a soft white blanket. I found myself looking at it frowning slightly at the thought of my things being touched by others but kept my face neutral resisting the urge to reach forward and snatch it from the arms of the doctor. “Miss Mi, hold out your hands slightly bent at the elbow…yes…now keep your hands steady, curve the right side and bring the young master close to you. “ I did as she said looking down at the still ugly thing, it was not as red as before and slightly wrinkled but it still was ugly in my eyes. “Wait, let me expose and clean one of your breasts so the young master can latch on to it to suckle.” I froze quite stunned, but did not resist, this is a process that I will eventually have to earn anyway. Nurse Qi gently helped me adjust my gown and positioned the baby against my breast.

Once all of the tedious process was over I found myself looking down at the tiny thing in my arms suckling on me, he suddenly seemed not too ugly, his hair was full but not exactly thick but it was enough to cover his entire head. This life will be interesting, but the father I could not remember is extremely worrying. I need to find out who he is and what kind of trouble he represents.

In my previous life, I wanted children with the man of my dreams but because of betrayal, yeah it will never happen. Now, I gave birth without remembering doing the deed furthermore who the father was. It felt like a cruel joke.

With some encouraging words from the doctor, I continued to focus on the child in my arms touching its soft head and thinking of what I should do next.

I remember that this female has nothing much, but remembering that I could be called an all-rounder in my last life, I should be able to survive in this world especially since I was the one who created it. I have knowledge of everything from literature to martial arts, even a basic understanding of medicine and engineering.

There will be sudden plotholes.

Even though this book stretched to about when this original owner was about forty a lot of things happened in between ok. There were major plot arcs involving rival families, political intrigue, and even a supernatural element or two.

While watching him and feeling suddenly maternal, I whispered a name that suddenly came to mind. Though he was a villain who had never seen the light of day, I still felt attached to him and wanted to write an anti-hero book about him in the future but thinking about his name ‘Tian Kuo’ will suit this child, for now, I just want to help him cover the ‘vast sky’, letting those who dared to trample on our family and our dignity must bow down. It was a strong and ambitious name, perfect for someone who would eventually become a powerful figure.

“Baby, mother will help you bring out your full potential, as her son,” I whispered to him softly, after all I gave birth and he is mine, I should stop calling him a parasite.

Once upon a bad Christmas

Chapter 13

I had been asleep for a while; after all, giving birth is quite hard. I sighed, sitting up and wincing at the pain in my lower abdomen, a dull ache radiating through my hips.

Sigh, oh dear Karma, just stop dawdling and kill me off quickly.

Just then, the door was opened, and in came a few people, a middle-aged woman in the lead, followed by two younger women pushing a stainless steel cart with various instruments and charts on it.

“Good evening, Miss Mi. My name is Doctor Zu, and these are the two assisting nurses, Lu and Qi. We are here to check on both you and the young master to see if everything is in order after the delivery.” The middle-aged woman said with a professional smile that crinkled the corners of her eyes. I observed the woman— no, the doctor, I corrected myself— as she continued to maintain her smile, her brown eyes twinkling slightly, while those around her, Lu and Qi, moved towards the little parasite with practiced efficiency.

She was pretty, with the kind of timeless beauty common among Asians who diligently cared for their skin, appearing younger than their actual age. Though middle-aged, maybe early forties, her hair was still a glossy black, pulled back into a neat bun, her wrinkles were still nonexistent, and her figure seemed to be still in shape, accentuated by the crisp white lab coat she wore over a light blue scrubs.

The other two were younger; they seemed to be in their mid-twenties, both also quite pretty with soft features, but they were gentle and careful with my little parasite. “What is today?” I asked softly, the question rasping in my throat, it was a bother not knowing the day after waking up. “It is Qixi festival, Miss Mi, also known as the Double Seventh Festival or Chinese Valentine’s Day.” Doctor Zu replied, dipping her head slightly in a gesture of respect.

Living from sixteen to sixty-three in the last life was worth it. As a little rich woman I took many interesting courses, from wine tasting to fencing, even dabbling in a semester of pre-med before dropping out.

After all, to make a book seem more realistic, one must experience some things alone.

This world was made up with a mishmash of many things from various cultures and places so as to avoid stepping on any toes. I’d woven in elements of ancient Chinese dynasties, modern European architecture, and even sprinkled in some futuristic technology.

Ugh, it was so hard, that I just did not care about the plotholes.

“Oh, thank you,” I said in an even tone, it is no wonder then. This hospital, by the way, belonged to an old friend of the Mi family, who, upon knowing the situation, helped, allowing me to have a VIP room in peace, complete with soundproofing and extra amenities.

Which was good, I am naturally accustom to being alone.

the other two females approached the baby and began to check it, taking its temperature with a digital thermometer, listening to its heartbeat with a stethoscope, and examining its tiny limbs for any abnormalities. I knew that I was out for only a short period of time. Now that I am awake and time has passed they will enter to check the newborn better. What was a surprise was that the baby was still present but not taken away as per usual to the nursery.

Well, this was a good thing because I remember writing about a female lead who was swapped at birth and also that last book shortly before my death I added a plot twist so epic that the readers almost drowned me in cyber spit. The forum exploded with angry comments and death threats after I revealed that the seemingly perfect male lead was actually the mastermind behind the heroine’s suffering.

Regardless, the little thing is safer with me, knowing myself the previous owner ran with the ball and has decided to raise it, the father probably has a unique status. I looked at the ring on my finger I botched explained. It felt heavy and unfamiliar.

looking at it now, the silver seemed to be white gold, the diamonds were dotted like stars, catching the light from the overhead lamp. it was beautiful, an image flashed in my mind and I saw a male hand with an almost exact replica on his finger though a mor masculine version, thicker band.

I lifted my hand looking at the ring on my finger while gritting my teeth. Who wanted a man?

They were a hindrance!

Look at the result after indulging, ugh.

“your confinement will begin, and the young master will stay with you and two nannies to accompany you provided by the director from the Hui family.” Doctor Zu explained, her voice gentle but firm. “They are experienced in postpartum care and will ensure you have everything you need.”

Right the confinement time will be about forty days with a strict hot meal, abdominal massages and even bandaging it and limited baths focusing on recovering within that time so that the body is not left with any underlying issues. They even mentioned herbal remedies and acupuncture, which I vaguely recalled researching for one of my historical novels.

Luckily I am in the hospital which included such things because I had no desire to pay for anything extra. “Hui family?”

“Well miss Mi, The director of the hospital is surnamed Hui. He was the one who had prepared everything.” Doctor Zu explained, adjusting her glasses. “He is a long-time friend of your grandfather, I believe.”

“Ok, I understand, I will thank him later, but for now please pass on my verbal thanks.”

“Of course miss Mi.” Doctor Zu replied with a reassuring nod.

Sigh I can only do it verbally, right now even though I have some money other things must be done first, I have another life to care for. I need to figure out the Mi family’s financial situation and see what assets I can access.

Once upon a bad Christmas

Chapter 12

The worst part is that it was the first book I have ever written with so many plot holes that more than thirty years later the readers still bash me to death on the internet for it. I could practically hear the echo of their angry comments and reviews.

Wait!

There was a forgotten one who had given birth to nine but after two million words I dropped it. A half-baked idea that never saw the light of day.

I stared up at the ceiling and wondered dejectedly about this situation, luckily the original owner had some cash to afford a decent hospital and old family connections.

This room was all mine, spacious and though it seemed simple, one can see that it was a VIP room.

Damn it!

I just wanted to die and see what was on the other side finally in peace. Didn’t I work hard enough?

Fifty-one books, over a hundred million words, I even supported the poor and needy! I donated anonymously to several charities and volunteered at the local soup kitchen every Christmas. And what were my results? heh.

Karma, where are you when I need you?

Come and kill me off.

This is my second life and once again I had been reborn in a damn book!

Wait, is it because I dug too many plot holes for people and they collectively cursed me to death? Is that even possible?

It was a fantasy! I repeat IT WAS A FANTASY!

A dark fantasy! With some messed up themes.

I even wrote trigger warnings! At the beginning of each chapter, warning my readers about the potentially disturbing content that followed.

I understand that they were few who had suffered from anxieties but it was not my fault!

Gritting my teeth I turned my head and looked at the little parasite that made my nether regions ache to death, I swear I was torn open, it felt like my insides wanted to fall out, no joke!

Looking away from the little parasite I scanned the room, even though this character was used to death she still had a good foundation, I remember that in the unpublished parts, she was the underdog and was the heroine in the end. Unfortunately, I who replaced her wanted to beat myself to a pulp because her growth was like from zero to hell mode. How the hell was I supposed to go from zero to hero in this crazy world?

Worse I now had excess baggage. A tiny, screaming, utterly dependent little thing. I mean it was not annoying presently but still.

I laid back on the bed and stared up at the ceiling.

My back ached, my privates felt like it was torn open, my core was continuing to contract and I could feel the exhaustion pulling me under. Sleep was a siren song, promising oblivion but I could not yet.

Alright, I am an old lady in this body ok, I have experience!

I gave birth, I can raise the little parasite well, now, I wonder if I simply say: ‘fuck the lot,’ if I’ll be strangled by the rules of the world?

My dumb self had written over three thousand chapters with over five million words so the world had to have to commonly know things I am good at digging for the readers. My own creation was now my prison.

Now as the most miserable character in The book with ‘luggage’ I have to use many of the grey areas I had hidden.

Sigh, I just really cant get over the fact I died and was dragged into a book and damn hell mode at that.

Why? Just…why?

Just tell me why? I needed answers, even if they were nonsensical.

Ok, call down and recount everything I could from scratch, knowing this will help me get through this plot hole riddled book and raise my ‘excess baggage’ as small as it is. Knowledge was power, and I needed to arm myself for the challenges ahead.

Sigh. I closed my eyes, focusing on the details, the timeline, anything that could help survive.

My name is Vanity with a foreign Michaels surname, using the Mi here in the country.

I am a generational Asian with origins in the Caribbean. My fifth grandmother moved here to study with her husband, later they gave birth to their only child and that child was raised for a while in this country and was later sent to the Caribbean to further be raised until he was fifteen and brought back. Later he married a girl from the same island and gave birth to their only child a daughter. Each of them had single children marrying those from the island and birthing from the island until my grandmother and now me, my mother unfortunately was born in China. A complex heritage that felt both familiar and distant.

My father is from the island, and my mother here, with connections to a family in this country.

They were not a wealthy family but they were stable with a few connections. Middle-class, comfortable, and utterly unremarkable.

Heh, why did I have to add so much about my country I tell you?

I like this character and felt that it would be my last book, I wanted to be remembered in some way before I died even though I started it as among my first, but I had changed her name to another.

That first part was over three million words and instead of the original owners father published being from my country, but decided on Burundi because it had a similar lettering and I had found it interesting.

He was the same cheating greedy male who disliked his first daughter, the same male who allowed his damn daughter who I had always thought was the niece to take my man.

He was—

I paused, I had just given birth and must shelf such thoughts before I have complications.

To make this short, I had been writing it off and on for most my writing career. Unfortunately, I lived to regret it.

Whatever force brought me here but I smiled happily knowing I had my own secret.

Even then I could not help but to continue feeling miserable.

Now let’s further go over the memory.

The child I gave birth to, yeh the father I have no idea.

I paused for a moment trying my best to remain calm, I mean, no pressure. My original island we did not pressure our women about marriage anyway.

Even if I am pressured, I wouldn’t bow my head but the problem is that I am already shackled to some dude the body couldn’t remember and it seems that I couldn’t remember that part.

What the hell!

Why?

What stupid original was this?!

You slept with someone without knowing who they were? Ahhhhh.. What a dummy!

Was she desperate?

The memory is not even working properly.

Well, throw the original owner under the bus, anyway I am not—

Fragments flashed by, almost making me spit blood from shock. Distorted images, fleeting sensations.

In the original book I wrote I only had two characters that basically took away the original owner’s men, now it seems that more plotholes but some are beneficial to me.

Eh? I’m not eighteen?

I am actually thirty-two?

I patted my chest and smiled thinking many things were easier. I looked at the almond toned skin, I reached up and touched the thick hair which fell now to below my small breast now heavy with milk.

Once upon a bad Christmas

Chapter 11

Rebirth

“Nurse!… get the blood, stat! We’re losing her!” The urgency in his voice was palpable as he gestured emphatically towards the crash cart.

“Doctor, she has a rare type… K Negative,” the nurse responded, her voice tight with concern as she checked the label on the blood bag. “It’s the last unit we have in the fridge.”

I entered the world silently, or rather, re-entered. My senses were overloaded, my mind struggling to process the chaos around me. “Push…doctor! Her heart is failing!” the attending physician barked, his face slick with sweat. I was too stunned at this event to even bother crying. The pain between my legs was unforgivable.

I may have died at the age of sixty-three, but I was a virgin. It’s not like I wanted to remain that way but life was funny and time seemed to be faster than expected.

Imagine someone like me did not even eat meat but I’m in such a situation.

Did I kill off too many characters in the past?

Could I not become dust and my soul scatter?

Now I am giving birth upon arrival.

Who did I offend? Tell me, ‘cause I am one million percent confused to death right now.

I scraped my brain, trying to figure out which book it was that I arrived in exactly and wanted to bite my tongue and commit suicide. “Doctor, the patient’s heart rate has skyrocketed!” a panicked voice cut through my mental fog.

“Alright administer the TMA, two amps!” the doctor ordered, his eyes glued to the monitor displaying my erratic vitals.

“Doctor, she is—” the same nurse started to say, but the doctor cut her off.

“Shut up! If it was not for that family would…” The words trailed off, replaced by a grimace and a shake of his head. Right, I remember this damn book’s name now! I tasted bile in the back of my throat.

## The Psycho best friend and the triplet gods#

No!

why?

this damn book has the most plot holes!

Ahhhhh!!!

I was so traumatised I passed out for a minute but felt suddenly energized and woke up moments later and continued to push. My body thrummed with a strange, adrenaline-fueled energy.

“That’s it, good job miss Mi!” I wanted to pass out again but then a flash of memory appeared and biting my tongue I continued. I clenched my eyes shut, focusing on the task at hand.

In the damn book, that bitch had said my son was not my son and the original owner died not reconciled but then she switched again and said it was mine. The plot twist that made absolutely no sense.

Who knew the truth but I will not take my eyes off this little parasite when I gave birth! I was determined to protect myself and this child from whatever madness awaited us.

“Doctor her heart rate!”

“Miss Mi it is ok, just push when you feel…” I zoned out the nurse as the others were in a flurry around me secretly hoping to die on this damn bed but I didn’t really want to. The sweet release of death beckoned, but a stubborn part of me refused to give in.

“I can see the shoulders now, miss Mi just one more push,” The doctor encouraged, sweat dripping from his brow onto his surgical mask.

I gritted my teeth and pushed again, wanting to scream but wanted to conserve my energy more. My muscles screamed in protest, but I pushed through the pain.

“Doctor, she has stabilized,” The nurse announced, a collective sigh of relief rippling through the room.

“Alright, hurry up!”

Ahhhh!

It was a book for crying out loud and the characters were fake! Why use me? Was it because I wrote it? Was this some twisted form of authorial accountability?

I continued to push feeling the thing exiting and wetness, then a low cry. A tiny, weak sound that sent a strange wave of emotion through me.

“Congratulations, you are a mother and you have a healthy baby boy.” The doctor said, his voice surprisingly gentle.

I blinked, confused by this. Mother? Me? In this ridiculous situation?

What congratulations? I can’t even remember how the little parasite was made in the first place furthermore appreciate giving birth to it. Now this stupid nurse will come to me and say; congratulations, with a smile? Like I’d just won the lottery instead of being forcibly inserted into a plot-hole ridden nightmare.

A while later, a red ugly child was presented to me. He was swaddled in a thin, white blanket. I stared at it feeling zero attachment to this tiny life in front of me, I don’t want it thank you. I felt nothing but a hollow emptiness.

Unfortunately, this body was mine so the thing was mine, it was better to let that bitch have it so I will grudgingly keep it. I couldn’t abandon this child, not even in this crazy situation.

I made a weak gesture as the nurse stepped forward, I looked at the little parasite closely seeing the eyes were a beautiful gold, it had a soft head of hair, the lips were full and cute with a small nose, the child was a bit long and the size was a little plump. No wonder giving birth was hard, he seemed to be a big child almost five kilos. 

Lifting my gaze, now extremely cold I looked at the middle aged nurse and decided to give her a few words. 

“Watch my child properly, you can’t afford the consequences if any mishaps occur.” I threatened then I passed out.

I never want to again!

I had always wanted a child yes, but the pain… No more! Don’t want!

When I awoke again I was in a room, it was simply decorated but spacious, the bed was also a fair size and the air smelled clean.

I frowned, the book details I remember only the birth part because I had to spend three days doing research and she was the only character from the fifty-one books I have written who gave birth to a child and it was my first novel. The vividness of that research now felt like a cruel joke.

Once upon a bad Christmas

Chapter 10 (happily never after)

The original character POV

eople think fantasy equals happily ever after, like a whimsical dream where every wish is granted. They think everything is wonderful and nice, filled with sunshine and rainbows. That what they see, read, and hear in those stories is correct and as should be, ah!

Well, fantasy is correct, but it is dark, sometimes beautiful like a fleeting sunset, twisted like an ancient oak, and mind-numbing, leaving you questioning reality.

So hello, welcome to my life, a far cry from any fairy tale.

My name is Vanity Saint Michaels, a daughter who should have had a beautiful life, filled with laughter and love, but… things went wrong, spiraling downwards into a vortex of despair.

At twenty-two, fresh out of finishing school with dreams of romance and a family, I found myself betrothed to a man who was considered the epitome of a perfect spouse, a paragon of virtue and success, and ranked among the nation’s top twenty wealthiest, with a portfolio spanning industries from tech to real estate.

Amidst the grandeur and opulence of the affluent society, where champagne flowed like water and designer gowns were the uniform, where fantasies of wealth and prestige shroud the harsh realities of life, there I existed; a young woman named Vanity Saint Michaels. My name hinted at a life filled with vanity and elegance, a life of silk and pearls; some may say my name is vulgar, a blatant display of pride, but I was proud. Foolishly proud of it, clinging to the image it projected.

You know family can be a burden, a burden that can even bring anguish to the soul, weighing you down with expectations and obligations.

Born into a world where appearances were everything, where reputation was currency. My parents, driven by ambition and obsession with societal status, meticulously groomed me to be the epitome of perfection, a shining example of their success. From a young age, she was taught to smile, even when her heart ached, to speak with grace, her words carefully chosen, to dance with elegance, gliding across the ballroom floor like a swan.

At the age of twenty-two, with my future seemingly laid out before me, I found myself bound to a man who embodied the essence of wealth and power, a man whose name echoed in the halls of industry and influence. He was considered a catch, a prized possession in the eyes of society, coveted by every debutante and their ambitious mothers. Despite my inner turmoil and the whispers of doubt that plagued my mind, growing louder with each passing day, I like a puppet succumbed to the pressure to fulfill the role of a perfect wife – a trophy to be displayed, a companion to adorn his arm.

Ah yes, as an ignorant character with so-called limited knowledge, sheltered from the harsh realities of the world, I was groomed to be his flawless wife, a polished jewel to complement his success, despite my somewhat flawed background, the whispers of a family secret that I tried desperately to ignore, yet still being his ideal companion, the woman he could proudly present to the world.

As the years passed, the illusion of a fairy-tale life began to crumble, the cracks widening with each passing misfortune. Vanity’s once-flourishing family faced a series of misfortunes, starting with a bad investment that snowballed into financial ruin and despair, the vultures circling as they lost everything they had worked for. The very foundation of her existence, built on the pillars of wealth and status, began to crumble beneath her feet, leaving her adrift in a sea of uncertainty and betrayal, with no land in sight.

Her mother, succumbing to grief and illness, her father, drowning in debt and despair, all dead, leaving me alone in the world.

Ah, haha… the sound of my own madness echoing in the empty halls.

It is a pity that I had to suffer and died only ten years later; he was mine rightfully, bound by vows and promises, so how did I become an outsider, a stranger in my own life?

My family was not bad, generous and kind, so how did they go bankrupt and become miserable one after another, their dreams and aspirations crushed under the weight of debt?

In what way could I, previously the most favoured, showered with affection and praise, face the possibility of being abandoned, cast aside like a broken toy?

It was a source of great confusion for me, a puzzle I desperately tried to solve, something that no matter how hard I tried to understand I failed to comprehend that this was my reality, a nightmare I couldn’t wake up from.

Was it not right to beat the woman who slept with my man, the woman who stole his affections and shattered my world?

Was it not right to ask questions after the fact, to demand answers for the betrayal that had consumed my life?

“So why?” I asked filled with unwilling confusion, my voice weak and trembling, barely a whisper.

“You were just too naïve, a pawn in a game you didn’t understand, just a stepping stone to enhance my glory,” a low feminine voice said from above me, laced with triumph and malice. I coughed, spitting out blood, the metallic taste filling my mouth, vision dark, unable to see because they had gouged out my eyes, leaving only empty sockets. I wanted to move, but they twisted my limbs, snapping bones and severing tendons. I wanted to speak, to scream, but they pulled out my tongue, silencing me forever.

My life flashed before my eyes, a chaotic jumble of memories, confusing me even more, adding insult to injury.

From a child, I had been pampered, indulged in every whim. Consequently, I fulfilled the requests of my parents, seeking their approval and love. They had birthed me, clothed me, fed me and allowed me to have the education to stabilize my foundation, providing me with the tools to navigate the world. At a young age, I saw the world because of my parents and relatives, travelling to exotic locations and experiencing the finest things in life, grew up like a precious jewel, adored by many even if in their eyes I was flawed, a pearl with a slight imperfection. What could they say because I was perfection otherwise? My friends were wealthy and worthy of being in my presence, their families influential and powerful. By the time I was sixteen, I had become a prodigy with a voice to calm and seduce, captivating audiences with my melodies, until my tragedy began when I turned eighteen. I lost my voice; a rare illness stealing my ability to sing, I became depressed, isolating myself from the world, but I learned to dance, finding solace in movement and grace, and later married my fiancé when I was twenty-one, hoping to find happiness and stability. My life should have been complete, a perfect picture of success, but a woman appeared, a voice similar to my own, an uncanny echo, similar to me, a mirror image, it was eerily unsettling.

At twenty-four, in a blink, I was thrown into despair, plunged into the depths of misery and sorrow. I lost my pillars!

Abandoned, mourning a loss alone, with no one to turn to. While he abandoned me for a substitute, a fake! I am the original! What ecstasy soup was he… they fed, clouding their judgment and blinding them to the truth.

My friends, my man, my family; whoosh gone just like that, vanished into thin air, leaving me with nothing.

Then, forgotten the torture began, both physical and mental, until I ended up in such a situation, broken and defeated.

Soul seeing despair, pain so deep it transcended the physical, I constantly beg for death, longing for release. I don’t want to live anymore in this world; I don’t want to wish anymore, for even the smallest hope brings only further disappointment.

What shocked me even further before I died? The ultimate betrayal, the cruellest twist of fate.

This was a book! I was a character! A puppet dancing to the author’s tune.

My life was just used as a plot hole! 

A convenient device to move the story forward. It is not enough to know that I suffered so much, I thought; well I am a stepping stone at least and it’s understandable, a sacrifice for the greater good, but I was the heroine! In a dog blood novel! A trashy romance filled with clichés and melodrama.

Who wants to accept such a fate? To be nothing more than a character in a poorly written story.

I am the heroine but my suffering had to be so deep and so much because of growth! A twisted justification for the pain I endured.

(Warning blackening of the main character number thirty!)

I don’t want to do it anymore.

My soul was cracking, consumed by bitterness and rage.

Clearly, the author is the creator; the puppet master pulling the strings, I am her precious creation, a vessel for her amusement, but I must suffer; I wanted to laugh but my body was breaking down and was weak, the laughter turning into a choked sob.

(Malice level rising)

Hehe, I swear to all that is holy the world is unfair. 

Unwilling!

The author can take this life, live for me, understand and feel my pain!

(Warning)

Regret!

Finally, I died.

(Character awakened…)

(loading…)

(memory cleaning….)

(Failed)(loading…)

(Adjusting emotional level)

(the thirtieth character has blackened!)

(Plot unstable)

I floated up, saw that woman who looked similar to me spit on my body, then followed as she left, I watched her be with my husband and listened as she described to an older woman how she destroyed my family using my family and friends. 

(Warning female lead blackening)

I could not deal with it after five years of watching her take over my life. My form seemed to become extremely dark, I rushed out and destroyed everything in my path, I burned, devoured and forced all of those who made mine and me suffer to cease existing. The world was forced into a purgatory leaving only me floating, my form filled with pulsing power.

(World collapsed…)

I turned in a direction disappearing a moment and appeared where there was a veil and tore it, in one direction I headed finding a beautiful woman with somewhat age and made a few moves but she seemed to notice my presence, with a look alone my body was dragged towards her. I didn’t resist, it was only fair anyway.

(Warning! Warning! warning!)

(forced binding)

(scanning…)

(Transferring…)

(Error! Warning!)

(fail, binding… Binding… Success.)

(Blessed to reincarnate)