Show menu NOVEL BIN5Novel Struggling as a Villain Chapter 175: Chapter 174- BurnSTRUGGLING AS A VILLAINC175: Chapter 174- Burn
Late at night, Richard decided to visit the academy to check on how things were proceeding.
Along with him, Bellarine and Amelia were present. Although the others also demanded to come, Richard told them to rest for now since they kept moving for the whole day.
Bella only agreed to stay back once Richard promised to share the bed with her tonight.
"There were about two thousand Ambrobates still fighting with the forces when I arrived." As they strolled towards the academy, Bellarine informed them.
"There never had been any preparation for such a large-scale attack in the first place. That's why they failed to contain the danger. Then there was that dragon as well."
Hearing Bellarine's words, Richard was reminded of that creature, urging the redhead to ask, "Mom…is there any place on Clion where we could find Dragons?"
Bellarine frowned, "No, I don't think so. And even if there was, it wouldn't have remained hidden for this long."
"A contracted familiar?" Amelia added, to which Bellarine nodded, "Possible….but considering how the strength of the contractor plays a major factor in deciding the familiar, it is highly likely that there is someone incredibly strong on their side."
Richard slowly nodded. Even his mother, who was the strongest witch, had only a phoenix as her familiar. So one could expect the scale of strength of the person who summoned that dragon.
Soon the trio reached the academy and found the situation inside was much more dire.
The soldiers from the capital have arrived and are actively taking away the dead bodies of the monsters. And the medical teams were still checking on the fallen students and taking them away.
Richard spotted Max standing nearby, urging him to ask, "When did they arrive?"
Max was startled to hear his voice, not paying attention to his surroundings resulted in his surprise before he responded,
"Ah…in the evening. No one informed them but it seems Duchess Bellarine's presence here was enough evidence to show that something massive happened."
Amelia excused herself since she spotted one of her friends crying while holding her elder sister's dead body.
Richard's heart trembled at the sight, as he asked, "How many?"
Max's expression turned grim as he whispered, "More than two hundred."
Richard clenched his fist in agitation. He felt he failed them since despite being aware that something was about to happen, he underestimated his enemy and that resulted in the death of so many.
Max rested his hand on the young man's shoulder before telling him, "It's not your fault…rather, people are thankful that it's because of you, the danger was subdued. The scale of attack those Ambrobates planned could have easily erased the existence of Obsidian Citadel."
Bellarine also held his hand, and encouraged, "Look at the brighter side, baby. You saved those many people even though you weren't obliged."
Richard heaved a long sigh before he held his mother's hand fondly and asked the man, "Those who betrayed…was there anything common between them."
Max looked awfully sad, as he lowered his gaze and uttered, "Their status….most of them were from poor families."
"So they were bribed?" Bellarine asked the obvious.
Richard shook his head, "No, mother. Although they were poor, money cannot twist their principles and moral values."
With his brows drawing closer, he provided the possible cause, "It's the accessibility of the church members to those people, which allows them to manipulate the children into believing that following the path they lay is the only way to attain peace."
"They brainwashed the kids?!" Max exclaimed; he clearly didn't expect such to be the case.
Bellarine confirmed, "I have seen, nowhere else but in the Capital, that the church members are allowed to roam around on a weekly basis. They have the permission to visit the houses of commoners for inspection and to enlighten them." The last bit came with an exasperated sigh.
"This game is well planned…" Richard muttered under his breath, before turning towards the Professor and asking, "What about the parents of the deceased?"
Max looked extremely worried and sad, "They are being informed and naturally, they are all coming here. Might as well reach by tomorrow morning."
With his gaze turning towards the emblem of the school, Max added, "Although I cannot be sure…but without the Headmaster being here to handle the situation, it's highly likely that this Academy would be sealed off after what happened today."
Richard wasn't surprised to hear that. The children who died today were all from noble families and those who came here from the Emberclad Empire, their death would cause international conflict as well.
There was no evidence to prove that they betrayed, and the society would ultimately blame the Ambrobates and the security of the Obsidian Citadel for the lives that had been wasted.
It has been over two months since he joined the academy, and within two months, directly or not, Richard has flipped the academy upside down.
No one knew what was going on inside Richard's head after he witnessed the savagery of those people from the side of Light.
The Ambrobates were infamous for their wild nature and the gruesome deaths they inflicted. Yet, for all they were, they at least attacked from the front. People like Eleanor, however, plot and scheme to stab others in the back—and that is far more lethal.
Bellarine went ahead to meet her ex-classmates and Richard's Professor Olivia, leaving Max and Richard alone.
"Richard…can you do something for me?" Amidst the growing silence, the older one suddenly asked.
Richard nodded, "Yes, what is it?"
"When you find Duke Aeromore's scion, Brendon Aermore…" With his gaze filled with nothing but sheer anger and desire for blood, Max added, "Give him the most gruesome death you can. Not only did he stab in the back of his friends and classmates…he was the one behind the Headmaster's demise as well."
It was very rare for Max to show such raw emotions, especially after he retired as a knight.
Richard clenched his fist as his mind went to that specific bastard before he assented, "I promise you, sir."
Max patted Richard on his shoulder before saying, "I will be going now. Take care."
Richard watched the man, now looking extremely weak and disheartened, helping others in removing the debris and doing his best to keep a positive front.
However, Richard knew that from the inside, not only Max but every single Professor and Instructors were broken.
And all of this for the sake of regaining control over Ethan.
'How sick can they be…'
—-------**---------
Inside the room, only two people could be seen currently.
After contacting Richard Rose asked if it was alright with Ruby to stay there for a bit longer. In the strange place, she was feeling extremely anxious and having no one else to talk to, she felt she might lose her mind.
Ruby agreed to her request; however, she would need to go back as soon as possible. There are people here who observe every member.
Rose is still undecided, and in that situation, if Ruby remains by her side for long, it would become apparent that the red-eyed girl is, as well, not on either side. Worse, they might assume that she is on the side of Darkness.
"Revealing the location of the hideouts to Richard…will it be helpful?" Rose asked in an uncertain tone.
Ruby, who was applying ointment to the pink head's wounds, slowly said, "We have no other choice but to trust in Richard. We saw clearly who was trying to protect the students and who sent the forces to cause chaos."
That's the same reason why Rose was still unsure which side she should be standing on. However, what bothered her was,
"Why did you come with them, then? You weren't brainwashed, right?"
Ruby smiled, "As a warrior, I won't have been helpful to Richard…but as a spy, I might be."
Rose was surprised, "You…risked your life so you can help Richard? President, do you like him?"
The older one chuckled, "That brat? To me, he's still just an arrogant kid, always boasting about his position and strutting around with his chest puffed out." With her eyes turning a little dazed, she added, "But now…he has matured and seems like a reliable man. So yes, I trust him and want to help him."
Rose didn't say anything about that, rather she asked,
"Are we trying to get Ethan on our side?"
Ruby frowned, "That would be foolish and impossible. They treat Ethan as their Lord…they are devoted to him. And the deities have chosen him as their champion. We shouldn't take the risk."
Rose instantly nodded; not wanting to take any step where she had to use violence.
After Ruby was done, she got up and said, "Now rest and wait."
Rose held her hand and asked pleadingly, "We will make it alive, right?"
Ruby smiled warmly before nodding, "You will be safe, I promise."
Planting a soft kiss on the little one's head, Ruby made her way out of the room.
Although she said that Rose would be safe, Ruby couldn't say the same for herself.
After all, she has betrayed her destined one…and her clan members would possibly burn her alive if she returns.
'Well, not like I didn't know the consequences of what I was doing…'
—------**--------
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Show menu NOVEL BIN5Novel Struggling as a Villain Chapter 176: Chapter 175- Cry for help(1)STRUGGLING AS A VILLAINC176: Chapter 175- Cry for help(1)
Ethan was standing inside the room he was guided to. There was an unreadable expression on his face as he stared down the window.
He was aware that everything had happened back in the academy. The death of his classmates and the other students...he was once again reminded of how weak he was to let it all happen.
He was powerless, and that's a fact. He swore to become powerful as swiftly as he could so again he doesn't face the grief of losing someone close to him. But it was nothing but a baseless oath.
His mother sacrificed herself for him. Just so Ethan could become the person she always dreamt of. Someone who helps others in need. Someone whom people could look at as a symbol of peace and strength.
However, he failed. He kept on wasting time here and there and no one was responsible for it except for Ethan himself.
He wasn't careful about his actions and allowed his steps to wander away. He received the blessings for a greater good, but all Ethan did after gaining these powers was to let himself get experimented on and allow chaos to occur.
'What a pathetic loser I am...' The wooden floor cracked under his presence, showing the emotion he currently was experiencing.
"You shouldn't be blaming yourself, Ethan." Hearing that voice, Ethan's anger surged.
Turning on his heels he found a familiar violet haired standing there with a tray of food.
"Get out before I do something which goes against my morals."
"More than ending my life, you can't do anything. And if that will make you feel relieved then I am prepared to die tonight." She said, without a speck of hesitation in her voice, as she stepped toward him.
Ethan clenched his fist, "I warn you Eleanor, stay away from me."
The violette nodded before she stopped in her tracks and rested the tray of food on the bed, before requesting him, "Please eat something, Ethan, you haven't-"
"I don't want you to care about me, Eleanor. Please." His voice shook near the end, something he desperately didn't want.
Eleanor looked at him with concern, "Ethan...*sigh* can you listen to what I have to say just this once? I promise you I will leave you alone after this."
Ethan just crossed his arms on his chest and looked away.
Eleanor took the hint that he wasn't unwilling so she began, "Ethan...numerous people died today and all because of those rampaging Ambrobates. You have seen how easily those many Bates could gather at once and you are not unaware of how many Bates are still out there, waiting for the war to begin so that they could unite with their Liege."
Inching closer to him, her voice softened, "Numerous lives have been crushed today, and millions of people would die in the war again...." Resting her hand on his shoulder, she added, "But if only the Emissary of Light stands against the Death God, so many lives could be saved. I trust in you and so do those deities."
"I don't think so..." Ethan suddenly refuted. His sharp gaze turned towards Eleanor as he said, "I don't think the deities trust me, or they wouldn't have taken control over my consciousness back then. And what about the war...why is it happening? Why don't I get an answer from them if they trust me?"
Eleanor was momentarily silence before she bit her lips and shook her head, "I cannot tell you now...but one day, you will get your answer, Ethan. The reason why we are fighting this war and why you are the chosen one. Everything would be revealed one day."
Ethan scoffed and shrugged her hand away, "Leave me alone, and next time, send someone else if you have something to say. Your presence disgusts me."
Eleanor's eyes welled up with tears as she asked, "P-Please eat the food-"
"No, I won't. I don't trust you. You might as well have put some drugs into it."
Eleanor was left stunned, standing there and staring at his back for a long time. It was the most severe punishment for her...to be rejected by the man she adores.
Ethan was everything to her. Her happiness and grief start and end with him. And if someone could have hurt her to this point, then it was him.
However, 'I am sorry Ethan...' As the silver head began to sway, she darkly muttered under her breath,
'I can't have you leave me again...' Ethan turned his dazed eyes in her direction before Eleanor went forward and held him.
"Don't...fucking...touch....me..." His voice was slurred as he tried to push her away however, under the effect of the drug, which she planted on him when she rested her hand on his shoulder, Ethan wasn't able to think anything clearly.
She dragged him towards the bed, and after removing the tray of food, she laid him gently.
"It will be fine, just let me handle things, Ethan..." She softly whispered and planted a soft kiss on his forehead.
Ethan was still murmuring something incoherently as he tried to move away but to no avail.
Eleanor slowly stripped him off his clothes, and with tears rolling down her eyes, she constantly muttered,
"Everything will be okay...."
--------**-------
*RUMBLE*
Thunder crackled outside, as Elizabeth was suddenly woken up from her slumber and she instantly sat on her bed.
Her heart rate was quite high and sweat continued to pour down her forehead
She looked out of the window in a daze, not being able to understand where she was or what she was just watching in her dreams.
It was all too fuzzy.
She checked the time and there were only three on the clock.
She didn't know why, but her heart was telling her that something bad had happened to Ethan, and she could not do anything to save him.
Her heart trembled, and tears began to roll down her eyes as she assumed the worst thing was happening to him.
Without another thought, she wiped her tears and jumped out of the bed. Wearing her shoes, she sprinted out of the school and ran all the way until she reached the mansion.
She used one of her strongest spells to put the guards to sleep since she didn't want to stop until she reached her destination.
However, although most of the guards fell down, one of them jumped in front of Elizabeth and threatened her, "Take another step and you will regret trying to disturb my master's sleep."
Elizabeth could tell that the man was dangerous and she couldn't waste time fighting him so she shouted,
"RICHARD!!!!"
--------**-------
A/N:- Man...Ethan is suffering.
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Show menu NOVEL BIN5Novel Struggling as a Villain Chapter 177: Chapter 176- Cry for help(2)STRUGGLING AS A VILLAINC177: Chapter 176- Cry for help(2)
[A few minutes ago]
It was already quite late when Richard returned to the mansion and after saying 'Good night' to the others, he returned to his room.
Naturally, no one was unaware that Richard was going to spend the night with his little sister, so they decided to give the duo some time given Bella had spent years without her beloved brother.
When Richard slipped into the covers, he found his sister was still completely awake; however, while pretending to be half asleep, she slowly snuggled close to him, her head on his arm and her arm wrapped around his chest.
"Mm…" She softly mumbled and parted her beautiful eyes. The pair of blue always makes him calm and allows Richard to feel at home.
Bella was his home.
"I am back."
"Welcome back, brother." She smiled softly, her adorable dimples making him smile, as he asked,
"Do you feel better now?" Earlier in the day, Bella released several high-intensity spells to break the barrier that the Goddess conjured. However, naturally, she wasn't able to breach the forcefield.
And due to ether exhaustion, she was quite sluggish earlier. Violet was the one who noticed her symptoms to be ether exhaustion and under Richard's stern glare, the girl laid down and allowed herself to get treated.
The raven-haired smiled, "I am fine now…that you are here." She dove into his chest, her mind and heart now filled with nothing but her brother's warmth. His presence was that resting spot which one could find in the vast ocean.
Slowly removing her bangs covering her face, Richard asked, "What happened to your hair earlier?"
Bella shrugged, "I have no clue, but it seems whenever I use ether my hair turns crimson." With a smile that showed her pearly teeth, she added, "But I love the shade. It makes me feel we are closer."
Richard heaved a sigh, "We are practically glued to each other. Now, how close do you want to get?"
"Until Bella becomes one with her brother." She chirped, and Richard took it as her childish antics.
However…she meant what she said.
However, before she could have made any move to show that she was no longer the same little Bella her brother remembered, Richard suddenly stiffened.
He sensed it…an aggressive presence approaching the mansion, urging the redhead to leave the bed.
"Brother-ah!" Then, Bella also sensed it—the presence of an annoying princess.
Richard's senses were attached to his shadows so he could tell that the person whom he was facing was none other than,
"RICHARD!!!"
"...Elizabeth." Rubbing his eyes in weariness, Richard moved toward the window and as he thought, the blond Princess was standing there looking at him…
…with tears in her eyes.
Her complexion and those tears made Richard frown, as he jumped out of the window and landed before the girl, "What happened?" Signalling to his shadow to stand down, Richard asked.
Soon the other ladies also came out of the mansion one after another.
Bellarine had a frown, "Have you lost your mind to shout like this in the middle of the night?" The lady was frustrated and that could be seen from her eyes. However, Elizabeth ignored her and moved toward Richard.
"Richard…something has happened to Ethan…I can feel it."
Richard's frown grew darker as he asked,
"Did you receive any message from him?"
Elizabeth shook her head, "No…but I had a dream…it felt like Ethan was calling out for me. Begging to be saved…" She inched closer to him and clasped her hand, "Please help me…Ethan is in danger, and I know for sure that if we don't do anything, something irreversible will happen today."
He never expected the prideful and arrogant Princess to ever show such desperation and fear. To the point where she was begging him.
"Baby, even if she saying the truth, going there would be dangerous. We shouldn't forget that the deities are directly interfering in this." Bellarine reasoned.
"Yes, Richard. We have seen to what length those people could go to keep Ethan by their side." Amelia added, holding his hand firmly, which showed that she was anxious about what decision he might take.
Elizabeth's tears never stopped as she said, "Please, Richard…help me this once, and I promise you I will become a slave of yours for the rest of my life. Even if it takes my life I don't care. Just please save him…Ethan has already suffered a lot…please, Richard." She fell to her knees while sobbing.
Elizabeth's heart was beating restlessly and the foreboding sensation never left her side. She has only felt this anxiety when Ethan fought the God of Death in the previous timeline.
Bellarine approached him and said, "It's not just because I am your mother, but from the perspective of a warrior, you would land into their trap if you go there."
"Yes, Richard. Their prominent target is none other than you as of now." Emily added, which made Elizabeth's eyes widened,
"No one but you…you, Emily are stopping him from saving the one we love?"
Emily heaved a sigh, "I care about Ethan, but to save him I cannot ask Richard to take a RASH decision. And we both know, whatever happens they won't endanger Ethan's life."
Emily and Elizabeth knew that the apostles and Eleanor were devoted to Ethan so it's certain that his life wasn't in danger.
Regardless, Elizabeth couldn't trust anyone unless she saw Ethan with her own eyes.
Amidst the growing silence, suddenly Lilia stepped forward and while holding her master's hand, she said,
"Not under the pressure of what we think or what Your Highness is demanding…do whatever you feel is right."
Richard felt a lot calmer after Lilia said those words. Truly, he was conflicted upon hearing both sides.
He remained silent for a moment before asking Elizabeth,
"Before I give my answer I want to ask you something,"
Elizabeth instantly nodded, "Yes…ask me anything."
Richard glanced at Emily before the latter nodded and erected a sound isolation barrier around them.
Taking a deep breath, Richard asked, "Tell me…how Ethan sealed Zulcriz in the previous timeline."
"----!!"
—--------**---------
A/N:- There is a reason why Richard didn't want others to hear about it. Anyway, thanks for reading.
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Show menu NOVEL BIN5Novel Struggling as a Villain Chapter 178: Chapter 177- Help himSTRUGGLING AS A VILLAINC178: Chapter 177- Help him
How much does Richard trust the knowledge of the novel he carried from his previous life? By now, absolutely zero.
He knew that everything written in the novel was real and happened at some point, however, there are things which happened differently than what was described in that novel.
There was a chance that one of the apostles had written and published it after reincarnating on Earth? To glorify the Protagonist, the being to whom they are devoted, they showed that Ethan sacrificed himself after using the Scythe, which belonged to Zulcriz.
There was a high chance.
That's why he couldn't trust the knowledge he carries. He has to ascertain through which means the God of Death was sealed the previous time so it doesn't happen again.
Regardless of whatever people believe, Richard knows that Zulcriz's existence is necessary. And not only because Richard was the inheritor of darkness but also because he knew the importance of Death.
The blind servitude toward the deities, those twisted beings, would be the end of this world one day. It wasn't the right method of judging people. How much one devotes themselves to the Gods to decide their fate...what kind of bullshit logic is that?
That's why death was necessary. Zulcriz was necessary.
Elizabeth hesitated; something that surprised Richard.
He raised his brows, "Is there no longer any urgency?"
Elizabeth flinched before she hurriedly shook her head, "No...it's not. I just don't want to give you an unsure answer."
She dove inside her mind and dug out the memories of that battle.
She was lying on the ground, a simple swing of the scythe it took to scatter the four supporters of the Emissary.
And when Elizabeth came back to her senses, "Ethan was....levitating." She muttered under her breath, "He had wings...on his back."
"He was shining and the energy he radiated still makes me tremble. It wasn't just any divine essence you might have faced until now...it was the truest form of magic."
Her eyes turned dazed for a moment as she added, "He was...the absolute being. The beginning of everything."
Richard had a severe frown on his forehead, "Can you be more clear?" He seriously cannot discern the essence of her words and the devotion she suddenly showed in her eyes.
Elizabeth corrected her posture and explained it to him in simple terms, "He...was the beginning. In front of Death, Ethan was standing as the symbol of Life. I have never felt any other apostle or divine awakened release such energy. It was like, he was blessed with something else...something more."
Richard narrowed his eyes, as the first being that came to his mind was 'All-father'. The creator of all the deities and every universe.
On the side of Light he might be, he never actively participated in the war nor showed any sign of helping out his daughters.
Then...could it be possible that seeing the champion of his daughters losing, the Almighty One blessed Ethan and allowed him to seal Zulcriz?
Wait, "Was Zulcriz sealed or was he..."
"No, Ethan failed to kill the God of Death and in the end, after sealing Zulcriz, Ethan crumbled away." The last bit came a bit shakily, showing how she was still grieving over something that was reversed.
Richard sighed, "I understand." He signalled towards Emily and the blond girl instantly took down the barrier.
"Haah...*huff* *huff*" Elizabeth instantly fell to her knees once she was out of the barrier
To weaken the link between Elizabeth—one of the apostles—and the deities, Richard increased the intensity of his Aembr. That explains why Amelia and Lilia were breathing roughly as well.
He apologized to them with his eyes before asking, "Why don't you guys go inside and take a rest? I will be back by tomorrow evening anyway."
His words made it clear that Richard was going, and for some reason, no one showed surprise.
Richard raised his brows, "What's with that reaction? Did you guys expect my response?"
Bellarine chuckled and answered in everyone else's stead, "Even if you don't accept it, baby, it's true that you are weak to tears."
Richard rolled his eyes, "Please. Weak, me? And in front of this girl who once tried to take my life?"
At once, everyone frowned.
"....uh-oh."
--------**-------
"Go and sleep." The dark-skinned man immediately got up upon hearing the words.
He was in a daze for a few moments before he turned his eyes toward the blond elf and glared, "I know what I should do. Go and sleep if you want to."
Tia sighed, "Look, Theodore, it was already a long day for everyone here. And after what happened back in the academy do you think anyone would think of retaliating even if our location is revealed."
Theodore wasn't able to refute instantly, but still, he hesitated, "Everyone else is asleep, are you sure you can guard their room alone?" The room in question belongs to Ethan, where Eleanor was also staying for tonight.
Tia nodded indifferently, "I did little to no work today and elves don't sleep for weeks without damaging their health much. You can go, Theodore." She added the last bit a little firmly.
The taller one sighed before he nodded, "Okay then if you insist. But don't brag about it tomorrow."
"Don't worry; I won't take your job."
Theodore scoffed before he made his way out of the gallery, heading toward his room, where his beloved bed awaited. God, he was tired.
Tia heaved a sigh as she sat down on a stool and looked outside the window. It was raining tonight and just like the disturbed sky, her heart was restless as well.
She was silently sitting on the stool and was not particularly paying attention to the surroundings....or so what it seemed,
*Tug*
She raised her hand and tugged onto air...no, looking closely she indeed had held onto something which was not visible to naked eyes.
Without moving her eyes, she said, "You actually came."
The shroud from the person was removed, only to expose a certain redhead from behind the veil.
Tia raised her eyes and looked at Richard before telling him, "They are there." Pointing toward the room adjacent to them, she added,
"Go save him."
Richard frowned, "Nora?" Seeing those eyes he couldn't help but feel that this girl wasn't the one she is pretending to be.
Tears welled in her eyes, as she added, "Please...save him."
Richard heaved a sigh before responding, "I will."
----------**---------
A/N:- Thanks for reading.
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Show menu NOVEL BIN5Novel Struggling as a Villain Chapter 179: Chapter 178- DeterminationSTRUGGLING AS A VILLAINC179: Chapter 178- Determination
One of those days after the apostles gathered and Nora was not included in that meeting, the elf realized something.
She was no longer being trusted.
To gain some answers, and to confirm some of the things, she went to meet Tia.
Once every week, every elf out of the elven territory goes to pray to the mother tree. The mother tree is a direct link to the World Tree present in the elven forest. And in Eldoria there was only one mother tree.
Nora waited for the day when she could meet Tia, and it finally came.
"Never did I think I would get to meet the Princess without begging for an appointment." Tia, with her eyes closed and hands clasped, called out.
Nora came out of her hiding and faced the blond elf, "You are from Frostleaf clan, right?" Nora asked with her hands crossed over her chest, "I know you."
Tia smirked, "I assume you gathered information about me so you can have something to say in this meeting?" Opening her eyes the older elf looked at Nora with contempt in her eyes.
Nora remained indifferent, "You were the strongest warrior of your tribe and someone participated in the Rogue Blood contest, as well." Coming to a pause, she added, "I was there. I watched you fight...the only female among seventeen males. And you made it to the third round-"
"Before I was dragged out of the arena cruelly, and was reminded of how weak I am," Tia uttered through her gifted teeth.
Nora didn't say anything about it and allowed the other one to continue, "At that time you didn't bother to meet me, Your Highness, and now that I am chosen as an Apostle and you are being excluded, you suddenly felt this is the right time?"
The anger and grief she hid beneath layers was surfacing in front of someone who had witnessed her misery.
Nora could gaze at how much she must have suffered after being thrown out of the contest and was laughed at. The elven society hasn't progressed in some of the things, and Tia's anger stems from one of those failures.
However, "You are weak to cry over it, Tia."
The blond elf clenched her fist, and while trembling in frustration, she asked, "I am weak?!"
"Yes, you are, since you like to pity yourself. After all, if there were hundreds of people mocking you, then there were tens of those who praised your courage and strength as well. My father also stepped toward and openly complimented you, you forgot that?"
Her words took Tia by surprise, as her lips parted and she stared at the young elf in shock.
Nora pressed forward, "It was just you who surrounded herself with so much negativity that even the praises you received seemed like a mockery to you." With her eyes turning icy, Nora added,
"Truth be told, the one who mocked you the most, is you yourself, Tia. Not anyone else."
Tia's aura flared, the ground under her feet cracked, and the divine essence she was blessed with, grew aggressive. The mother tree reacted to her energy; the movement of the leaves was a sign of it.
Nora didn't show any sign of panic, as she heard, "Have you taken me as a fool? Do you think saying such a thing would heal my wounds?!"
Nora raised her brows before uttering, "I don't know about the wound part....but yeah, you are a fool."
*Dhak*
Before the blond elf could realise what Nora meant, the one who stood before Tia vanished in the mist, and a heavy blow was dealt to Tia's neck—stealing her consciousness.
Nora heaved a sigh; the moment she realised her presence was no longer necessary by the deities and after considering the consequences, she decided to take this step.
Her appearance slowly changed, taking the form of the lady she just knocked out cold.
'I am sorry, Tia, but if this concerns Ethan, then I am ready to even fight the Gods...'
-------***-------
"Bring me the aphrodisiac...." Hearing those words from Eleanor, Nora barely held herself from slapping the girl. She couldn't believe that the same girl who used to behave so considerately in the past was now making such rash and irrational decisions in the name of saving Ethan.
Eleanor didn't want Ethan to be stripped of his position as the Emissary, and that's why she wanted to have his child, so, because of obligation, he couldn't leave Eleanor.
Yes, why not? There is no bullshit in it.
Eleanor knows clearly that there are several other ways to keep Ethan by their side. And if the side of Light is as pure as they believe, then Ethan would never think of leaving.
But Eleanor knew that the deities have their twisted desires which they want to be fulfilled through their apostles. And to bring an end to that only being who could cause trouble for those Goddesses, they are using Ethan.
For some reason, Nora can now see things more clearly. She didn't know why, but in her previous life, she wasn't able to look at things rationally.
That's why she decided if no one came to save Ethan today, she would reveal herself and take Ethan away even if it costs her life in the attempt.
She knew that taking away Ethan would be incredibly difficult, that's why she mixed sleeping pills in everyone's food and gave it to Eleanor as well...however, she didn't eat anything at all.
That's why Nora thought she had to take this step by brute force....after all, regardless of the reasons she couldn't let Ethan suffer anymore. She might face a fate far worse than what Emily did, but she didn't care. She was determined to save Ethan....
...until he came.
"They are there." Looking at the man she once hated the most, Nora pleaded, "Save him...please."
Richard looked into her eyes before nodding, "I will."
---------**--------
A/N:- Thanks for reading. Let's pray for...Eleanor.
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Show menu NOVEL BIN5Novel Struggling as a Villain Chapter 180: Chapter 179- Don't want to returnSTRUGGLING AS A VILLAINC180: Chapter 179- Don't want to return
Richard didn't know how and why but Nora was present here, under the guise of that blond elf. He saw her back then when he was fighting against James. She was the one who took away Rose.
'Was she Nora all along?' Although he knew that the elven princess had good control over her skill, her illusion was strong enough to fool him and the other apostles as well.
Regardless, he didn't think about it for long and entered the room where Nora pointed.
He slowly pushed open the door and was met by a very thick sweet scent…almost like honey was wafting in the air.
He narrowed his eyes, his guard up; ready to deflect any attack that might be targeted towards him.
…However, upon entering the room a completely unexpected scene greeted him.
"Ah, Richard…" On the bed, one person was sleeping(?), and another one was sitting.
The one who looked out cold was Eleanor and Ethan was sitting at the edge of the bed.
Richard was surprised before he raised his finger and shot a spell cancellation beam towards Ethan.
The silver didn't move, but he did flinch upon the sudden movement.
'There is no illusion…' Richard frowned before he asked, "Are you really Ethan?"
Ethan smiled helplessly, "Do I look more handsome now that you don't recognise me?"
Richard raised his brows, "Not a very good time to joke, bud." Inching closer to the bed, he asked, "How did you tackle her? From what I could smell, she used some kind of aphrodisiac?"
Once Richard entered the room, he knew Eleanor's intention. However, he didn't expect the protagonist to be actually not under Violette but rather sitting there casually.
Ethan heaved a sigh, "I somehow was able to utilize this blessing…" Raising his hand, Ethan allowed the divine essence to wrap around his hand.
It was faint blue, very pure and condensed. Richard felt repulsed standing before the energy, however, it wasn't severe enough to make him react.
"The time I spent in comatose…or when they took control over my consciousness in order to brainwash me, I actually dug deep within my consciousness."
With his brows drawing closer the silver head added, "I noticed something strange…"
"Strange?" Richard asked.
"Yes, strange. Since…I thought I was receiving these powers from someone or something…however, when I reached deep within my consciousness, I found a huge ocean."
Richard raised his brows, "Hmm?"
"Yes, ocean. Like a huge reserve of water…but instead of water, I found a very small stream of water directing toward somewhere uncertain."
Richard was unsure what he was talking about…rationally that is. There was no theory related to what resides within Ethan in the novel. It was just stated that the protagonist was blessed with divine energy, which he utilizes to power up his spells and enhance his strength. It allows him to wield any weapon in existence and some other skills.
But the ocean….maybe, "It's your own reserve which you didn't realize until now?"
Hearing Richard's words, Ethan didn't show any surprise. He somehow expected it but needed confirmation from someone.
"I can't be sure, but considering how once I got a hold of the stream, I was able to return to my consciousness…it might be true?"
Richard was unsure if his theory was right, but from what Ethan was saying, it might be the case. Ethan actually possesses the Divine Essence, and that incident allowed him to realize his powers.
And if there hadn't been something special about Ethan, then the Goddesses wouldn't have favoured him for this long. After all, despite him showing favour towards darkness, those deities forced their apostles to bring him back.
And then there were those wings Elizabeth described…which said that Ethan has the potential to ascend his human restrictions.
'Is it the connection with the All-father after all?' Regardless, they didn't have the time to ponder over for long so Richard urged,
"Let's get going, Ethan. The others are sleeping-"
"Sorry to interrupt you, Sir Richard, but I cannot come with you." Ethan apologetically refused, surprising Richard.
"What are you saying? They tricked you to come here and you don't want to come back?"
Ethan sighed, "If I wanted to come back I had more than enough chances to escape. But trust me, Sir Richard, it would be best for me to stay here."
Richard frowned and wordlessly urged him to continue.
The silver head added, "I have seen to what length they can go to have me…and to not let something like that happen again, or worse than that, I have to remain here … until the Great War starts."
"And what after that? Are you willing to fight from their side?" Richard asked; he showed no displeasure.
Ethan shook his head, "I don't know…and won't know until I don't find out the whole situation of the deities and the Death God. After I discern the whole situation then I will decide whether I would be participating or not."
Richard heaved a sigh, "At this point, even I can't be sure what's the whole story."
Ethan smiled, "It must be frustrating." Richard nodded to that.
The room turned silent for a few minutes after that before Ethan extended something to Richard and said, "Can you give this to Eli? Please?"
Richard took the paper before informing him, "She was a broken mess when I came here. It was her who said you are in trouble so I decided to come here."
Ethan felt guilty for making Elizabeth sad because of himself and his decision to come here without telling her anything. In this world, if there was someone who actually cared for Ethan for who he was, not because of his powers or anything else, then it was Elizabeth.
Richard heaved a sigh, "Are you sure you don't want to come along? I assure you I can keep you hidden and the Scarlette clan will provide you protection."
Ethan shook his head, "I know what I am doing. Trust me, Richard."
The redhead had nothing to say after that. He handed Ethan the same communication artifact which he had given to his mother in the past.
"With this, we can communicate once a day. I will give the other one to Elizabeth."
Ethan's eyes widened and soon tears welled in them.
With his head parallel to the ground, he gave a crisp bow before thanking him, "Whatever you hand done for me, I cannot be any more thankful. When the time comes, I will repay your kindness. I promise you."
Richard urged him to get back up since receiving such formal thanks was quite…embarrassing.
He then looked at Eleanor before his anger began to surge.
Ethan stood beside him before reminding Richard, "She has the strongest connection with the deities. Hurting her would alert all the apostles…please think rationally, Sir Richard."
The flames around him slowly extinguished, as the redhead sighed and thanked him.
However, the flames of anger in his heart have yet to be subdued, 'Not today, but on the battlefield, you will repay for every single sin you have committed…'
—-------**----------
A/N:- Thanks for reading.
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Show menu NOVEL BIN5Novel Struggling as a Villain Chapter 181: Chapter 180- Forgiven?STRUGGLING AS A VILLAINC181: Chapter 180- Forgiven?
Richard didn't take much time to leave since staying there was like sitting on a time bomb. Although he was strong, much stronger than when he returned to this world, he still could not win against tens of apostles who were easily S-rank.
Not to talk about there being an anomaly among the apostles who can summon a dragon.
That's why Richard escaped the mansion and returned to the academy—this time using teleportation to reach the nearest town of the academy. Considering he used the teleportation centre of the academy to come here, he had to take a detour.
He received some important information about the situation concerning Ethan. Although Richard was worried for the silver head—considering what Eleanor tried today, she could do worse than that—he didn't force him to come back.
The silver head has changed and matured in very little time, and when he had made a decision for himself, it would have been unfair to demand him to change his decision.
When he reached the academy, it was already six on the clock and the sun was peeking from the horizon.
The first person Richard noticed walking around the mansion was his mother.
Richard walked towards her and told her, "You didn't have to wait for me. You must be tired."
Hearing her beloved's voice, she flinched and immediately turned around to see him.
Her heart melted, and her shoulders relaxed seeing her child safe and uninjured.
"You won't understand how I was feeling in these hours unless you become a father," Bellarine uttered as she embraced him close in her arms.
Richard mischievously smiled, "I am ready to become a father...so shall we begin?"
Bellarine pinched his waist in complaint, "Don't joke around when I am being all emotional."
Richard chuckled seeing her pout, "Okay, okay, I won't. And as you can see, I am completely fine. I didn't come across any apostles, except for one."
Bellarine raised her brows. Propping her chin on his chest, she asked, "They didn't attack you?"
Richard smiled and couldn't stop his urge to pinch her adorable cheeks, "Nope~I have a suspicion that it was someone familiar, pretending to be an apostle."
"Ummm-mu-" Bellarine tried to speak, but the way he was squeezing her cheeks, massaging those mochis, she couldn't speak at all. In the end, she slapped his hand and stepped back
Covering her reddened cheeks, she sulked, "Why tease me? I am your mother; I must remind you."
"Then stop being so adorable. I can't control it."
Bellarine's cheeks, which were already red, flushed even more hearing that as she 'hmph-ed' and said, "Richard now bullies his Mama."
Richard chuckled and after holding her hand, he began to advance towards the mansion.
"What about the others?" Richard asked casually.
Bellarine snuggled closer to him as she responded, "Amelia fell asleep, even though she did her best not to. I somehow made Bella sleep for a few hours, and Emily is, along with Jasmine—protecting the others. And Lilia...well, it's impossible to make her sleep while you are out."
Nothing unexpected...however, upon hearing Emily's actions made Richard frown. Although he turned her into an Ambrobate, he didn't want her to feel servitude toward him.
Jasmine is devoted to Richard because of the fact that he is the successor of Zulcriz, but the same cannot be said about Emily.
"Thinking about Cravenford?" Bellarine asked, to which the other one nodded,
"Hmmm...I don't know why but Emily has changed. She...remains distant even though I could feel that she wants otherwise. She has lost her memories and has to remain away from her family....in such a situation she should have tried to make new connections with the people here."
Bellarine paused and after stepping in front of her son, she rested her hand on his chest and told him, "Baby, it's not easy for her. She knows no one here, and having her friends now a part of a distant and forgotten past must have been tough on her."
Richard heaved a sigh, and while resting his hands on her waist, he asked, "What should I do?"
Bellarine hesitated..."Before anything you should ask yourself...are you ready to accept Emily?"
Richard frowned, "What do you mean, Mom?"
Bellarine barely held herself from sobbing as she added, "You took your life because of her...and the misunderstanding that occurred between you two. And even in this life, she chose to abandon you."
Taking a pause, she asked again, "That's why before taking any decision, first ask yourself; have you forgiven her and are ready to accept her?"
Richard parted his mouth....but couldn't respond immediately.
He was no longer the Scarlette Richard of the book, who played the role of mid-rank villain. He is the same Richard who died after being betrayed by the woman he ever came to love.
Bellarine heaved a sigh, "Don't stress over it and come inside now."
Richard nodded, and along with Bellarine, they walked inside their home.
Lilia was standing there, and upon noticing Richard she stepped forward and helped him take off his coat, "I hope you had a safe journey, master."
"Of course, it was." Richard casually responded.
Turning his eyes toward his mother, he found her smirking, as she said, "How composed she is behaving now."
Richard was confused, as he glanced at Lilia and found the girl's cheeks turning rosy, "Lady Bellarine, you should get some rest."
"Is that so?" The lady raised her brows teasingly before she turned towards her son and informed him, "Don't get fooled by her mature appearance, baby. When you were gone, she was fidgeting all over the place, moving about the house, looking out every other minute to see if you were back."
Richard was surprised as he turned towards his beloved maid, "Really, Lili?"
Lilia's face was now flushed red but she tried her best to maintain a cool demeanour and replied, "It's natural for me to get worried for my master."
Richard smilingly asked, "I would appreciate it if you show that concern now as well." Saying so, he pulled the girl in his arms.
Lilia's eyes widened; she wasn't used to being intimate with her master in front of others.
She hid her face in his chest and didn't look up at all.
But the way she clutched his shirt, showed how she wanted to be close to him.
Richard grinned at the reaction, before a thought crossed his mind,
'It's been a while since I spent time with Lilia and the others...'
----------**----------
A/N:- A few SOL chapters. Thanks for reading.
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Show menu NOVEL BIN5Novel Struggling as a Villain Chapter 182: Chapter 181- Maid Amelia*STRUGGLING AS A VILLAINC182: Chapter 181- Maid Amelia*
"Uhmm…" Eleanor woke up in a daze, as she sat on the bed and looked around.
She couldn't discern where she was for a long time, until someone called out to her, "Why give me the room when I wasn't even allowed to sleep on my bed?"
Eleanor straightened her back and looked at the person who was looking back at her with his back resting against the wall.
"E…than?" She looked at him in shock as the memories of last night came to her mind.
She…drugged him and even pulled him to the bed, however, before she could do anything, her consciousness blacked out
And in the morning, looking at her clothes, she could tell that nothing happened.
She sat at the edge of the bed and asked, "Ethan…last night-"
"You drugged me and tried to r*** me. I am aware."
Eleanor's face turned pale, her eyes stretched wide as she realized that Ethan was aware of everything, and unlike what she believed, she wasn't able to overwhelm his senses enough to….
"Ethan…please listen to me-"
"You know Eleanor, until I gained these powers, I was happy. Although my mother was sick, I actually could afford a living and smile without forcing myself. One might think that poverty and my mother's illness would have been a burden, but no…it was the golden period for me." He told her in a beat while looking exceptionally calm.
With a slight tilt of his head, he added, "Then you came into my life, and so did these powers which everyone calls 'Blessing.'"
Eleanor was rendered speechless. The side of the Apostle wanted to get up and remind him of the greater good he would achieve with these powers. He is the only one among millions who was chosen as the Emissary. That he was destined to reach the pinnacle of humanity.
However…as a person, Eleanor couldn't say anything at all. Everything he said was true. Although it was not very comfortable he was at least living a stable life. Until she arrived and changed his life for the worse.
The incident with Headless…if she had prevented his mother's death, would he not have hated her? The disgust he carries for her…would he not have looked at her like this?
Were Emily and Elizabeth right?
All kinds of questions overwhelmed her.
Ethan heaved a sigh, "Now that you are awake, get out. I want to rest."
Eleanor, while barely holding herself from sobbing aloud, nodded before she got up and began to advance towards the door.
Suddenly Ethan held her arm, startling Eleanor.
With the distance between their faces inches apart, Ethan looked dead in her eyes and told her, "If you tried to pull another trick like last night, then I swear to God I will kill you. They need me, not you, remember that."
He pushed her out of the room before closing the door shut.
Eleanor remained standing there listlessly for a long time. The other apostles were all standing there, looking at her miserable state.
Tia indifferently looked at the girl whom she once called her friend.
Eleanor was not in the right state to mind their gazes, she slowly slid her back against the door and sat down on the floor.
For a long time, she remained seated there, legs curled and face hidden behind her hands.
She wept for a long time. A part of the girl was broken.
—------**-------
Richard woke up around the evening.
Although he seemed fine he was actually tired after what happened yesterday. Using his elemental form was exhausting and he wasn't too used to that form.
And facing a literal God took a toll on him as well.
Stretching his body a little, he found no one was inside the room.
Having the moment to himself, he checked his stats,
[Name: Scarlette Richard]
[Race: Human, Elemental Ascended]
[Age: 16]
[Rank: B+]
[Str: 183]
[Spd: 210]
[End: 201]
[Int: 64]
[Mgc: 6532]
[Luk: 60]
[Available stats: 00]
[Special skills: Burning, Hammering, Blacksmithing]
[Skills: Self-regeneration -> D+
Telekinesis-> C {4000 Kilograms}
Barrier-> D+ {Four layers}
Enhancement-> A+
Detection-> B (1200 meters)
[Spells: Fireball- D
Amber Arrow- D+
Hell Blaze- S
Flame Maze- C
Molten Platform- D-.
Perception Burst- B
Flood of Flames- A
Meteor Rush- B-]
[Inventory: Bo-staff: ???
Eternal Trident: ???]
...
His stats were not very developed, which was a little strange. He was sure that Richard was as strong as his mother now. Not only has he gained control over his flames, but in his ascended form, he can regenerate his body parts.
Then how come…?
[Ding!]
[The stats of the elemental form are different.]
Richard hummed but any thought of using his elemental form was shot down, considering he was inside his room and switching forms would definitely burn something around him.
*Knock*
"It's me, master." Richard was surprised, not because someone came knocking on his door but because of the way they addressed him.
"Come in?" There was no doubt that the person on the other side was Amelia…then why master?
Ah!
The moment she stepped in, he realized why she called him as such.
The black-haired beauty was currently wearing the black and white typical maid's uniform while holding a tray of tea and warm water in her hand.
Her hair was tied in a tight bun, and the uniform looked great on her petite body.
She rested the tray on the table and under Richard's smiling eyes, she asked, "Would you like to have dinner or a bath first? Or maybe you prefer to have me?"
The way she suggested with a straight face made it even more tempting.
He wrapped his hand around her waist before whispering, "What do you think?"
Amelia, in the maid uniform, looked extremely tempting to him. Her skirt was short and her stockings were making her thighs look sexy. The lowcut of the dress allowed a healthy amount of cleavage for him to gaze at. And from this close, he could inhale her womanly fragrance, making him all hot and bothered.
"Considering the heat my master is radiating I assume some services are required." Amelia slowly whispered, her voice hushed and her face turning a little red.
Before Richard could realize what she meant, Amelia suddenly dropped to her knees, her face just right before her lover's little prince.
"Amelia…are you-ah…" Richard stopped talking as suddenly Amelia held his hardened shaft.
He couldn't resist since her hand instantly scooped his manhood out of the confinement, and the warmth of her soft hand made it half erect already.
This was the first time for Amelia to see it and she was amazed at how…strange it looked.
She held it in her hand and marveled at the size and girth of his manhood. The scent permeating from it was intoxicating. She has never been greeted with something like that.
Holding it delicately in her hand, she gave it a light stroke and heard him groaning.
Realizing that it made him feel good, Amelia began to move her hand back and forth, allowing him to enjoy the services she promised.
Since it was a little dry and her hand wasn't moving fluently, she rolled out her tongue and gave his meat stick a thorough lick. Starting from the base, she moved her face upward and allowed her saliva to coat his manhood.
It was salty…the taste and Amelia felt her own body turning hot when she did so.
Richard was feeling he was in heaven, having his cock being served by his diligent 'maid' right after he woke up.
He rested his hands on her head, as she moved her hand flawlessly back and forth, covering his whole shaft and sending jolts of excitement down his spine.
"Richard…do you want me to use my mouth?" She suddenly asked, her hand stopping not even once.
When he looked at her upturned gaze and that mischievous smile, he felt this girl was toying with him. However, the temptation of having his rod engulfed by those puckering lips was too strong to resist.
He nodded, "I do."
Amelia grinned before she parted her mouth and moved her head forward. The girth of his rod was enough to make her cheeks hurt but she endured and finally wrapped her warm mouth around his shaft.
"Agh…feels so great…"
Amelia did not know about sex. All she got to know about these things was from the several books she found in the library. Some students put those books there as a prank but Amelia received all her knowledge related to sex from those books.
She began to move her mouth back and forth, supporting herself while holding his legs.
Richard shot his head up, feeling his dick moving in and out of her mouth, her saliva and his precum allowing the movement to remain smooth.
Amelia couldn't hold the whole thing in her mouth. However the rapid movement caused Richard to exclaim,
"It's about….to…"
She bobbed her head and held nothing to support herself. Her eyes were closed as saliva continued to drip down her lips.
With a final push, she rested the whole thing inside her throat as tears welled in her eyes.
It was the final push Richard needed to shoot the load he was containing. The ropes of his semen flew inside her mouth and Amelia diligently gulped everything.
After a few moments, Richard finally took his thing out of her mouth and apologised,
"Sorry for releasing it inside."
"Yeah, you should be. It was bitter and a whole lot."
Amelia said as she got up.
Richard scratched the back of his head before he suggested, "Shall we take a bath and clean ourselves?"
Amelia accepted the compensation with a quick nod.
—------**------
A/N:- Thanks for reading.
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Show menu NOVEL BIN5Novel Struggling as a Villain Chapter 183: Chapter 182- What connection?STRUGGLING AS A VILLAINC183: Chapter 182- What connection?
Since the others were waiting to see Richard, Amelia and Richard didn't go all the way, and after cleaning up in the bathroom they changed their clothes—Amelia was reluctant to let go of the maid ones—and descended to the first floor.
There, Bellarine along with Bella were chatting—mostly Bellarine talked—and Lilia was with Violet and Emily. They all seemed relaxed and happy, and the scene alone made his heart melt.
"Evening." He greeted, and at once, every gaze turned toward him.
Bella flew towards him and hugged her brother. She hasn't seen him since he left to save Ethan. Although she came to see him when he was asleep, still meeting his conscious self held more importance.
"I heard you were fine but until I hear it from you, I couldn't trust anyone."
Richard rubbed her back and assured, "Your brother is safe and completely unharmed."
"Young Master, I heard you met a 'familiar apostle' there?" Lilia asked, with a frown on her face.
Bella removed herself from his embrace but remained standing near her beloved, with their hands connected.
Richard looked past Lilia and while looking at the two near the entrance, he said, "Why don't we hear it from the person?"
Everyone turned towards the entrance where Nora and Elizabeth stood.
Last night Richard told the Princess about Ethan's decision and gave her the letter. She became silent and somewhat relieved after reading the message from him, and in the morning, she appeared far, much calmer.
As the duo approached, Nora apologized, "I am sorry for hiding it from you, but yes, I have been impersonating someone among the apostles."
No one was aware of it and surely they were surprised to hear that.
Bellarine stepped forward and asked, "Since you were aware of the ambush, why didn't you inform any of us?" Bellarine was displeased about the fact that her baby held himself responsible for so much death.
And now, her anger was directed at the stupid elf.
Nora's eyes became blurry with tears, "I didn't know…that they would kill so many people. And I also got convinced that this was for the greater good." Inching closer to Richard, she begged,
"Please trust me, Richard, I didn't have a clue that they would end up killing so many students and that Rose would go out of control. Not even apostles were informed about Rose being the descendent of the First Hero."
Richard indifferently looked at the girl before shaking his head, "You don't need to apologize since I never held expectations from you, Nora. You are from the side of Light so surely it's your duty to hide the plans and plots they form against us."
Tears rolled down her eyes as she realized that Richard wasn't going to believe in her. The only hope she had to save Ethan was also drifting away.
"Richard, I am ready with my decision." Elizabeth, ignoring the elf, stepped forward.
With her gaze holding nothing but determination she asked, "Tell me something, after accepting Aembr, will you trust me?"
Richard hesitated a bit and glanced at Emily before telling her, "Yes…since when I use Authority, you won't be able to lie to me."
Emily gave no particular reaction to that even though she was unaware of this authority. She has devoted herself to serving the being who saved her; as such, she doesn't mind having control over her words.
Elizabeth nodded, "Then…change my fate and origin. Turn me into the being whom I once hated. If it's all it takes for me to get back on those people who dare hurt my Ethan, then I am prepared."
Holding the hand of the elf beside her, Elizabeth added, "And she is too."
Nora, the girl who was reluctant to stray from the path of light until yesterday, showed no reluctance when Elizabeth added her to the list as well.
Richard looked at the elf before asking, "Are you sure, Nora? After this, you won't be accepted by the deities; you have to fight alongside the same monsters whom you wished to exterminate in the past. And you have to serve the same being who became the reason for Ethan's demise."
Nora flinched, not because she didn't already know it, but rather, "You…Richard, are you a wandering soul?"
Richard chuckled, "You are noticing it now? That I am aware of the previous timeline?"
Elizabeth's eyes also widened slightly since despite him asking things regarding the previous timeline, she didn't think he could be a wandering soul.
Richard heaved a sigh, "Well does it matter? Those who are close to me know who I am."
Richard shrugged since he didn't want to go back and explain every single thing about Earth and then dying and then regaining memories…it was enough that the people close to him knew about it….
…except for Lilia. He never found the chance to tell her.
Elizabeth heaved a sigh, "No wonder you were behaving maturely and even didn't give a shit about Emily's emotions and stuff."
Emily pouted, "He cares about me!"
Elizabeth scoffed, "Yeah, right. Anyway, I am fine switching sides."
Richard turned his gaze toward the elf and Nora, also nodded in assent, "Me too. I will do whatever it takes to save Ethan from those vultures."
Richard, upon receiving the consent, told them,
"Okay…umm, Jasmine." Instantly the raven-haired demon appeared before her master with a smile on her face.
"Yes, master?"
Bella frowned, this woman gives a wrong vibe every time she is near her brother. Bellarine and Amelia were the same.
Her sex appeal is greater than anyone in this mansion.
Richard told her, "Go and take a few hours of rest before starting preparing for the ritual."
Jasmine's smile extended, "But master, I will need some energy for the ritual."
Richard heaved a sigh, "Okay come with me-"
"No, no, wait! What kind of energy is she talking about Baby?"
"I am also curious, young master." Lilia pressed forward.
"Richard?" Amelia frowned.
Richard gulped before informing them, "It's…a connection of two bodies, where one transfers Aembr to another."
"And how do they connect?" Bellarine's frown deepened.
"..."
—-------**---------
The Emperor has returned to the Capital after almost two months. He has received numerous reports, and sadly, none of them were to be celebrated.
First, the attack on the Capital by the dark cultist endangered his son's life, and numerous soldiers were sacrificed.
Then there was the situation with Bellarine where it was suspected that she and her son killed hundreds of church members by siding the Darkness. However, there has been no proper evidence to show the credibility of the news
And then, the most unfortunate news: the death of Headmaster Marcus.
The ambush on the academy was well planned and not something that a misdirected horde of Ambrobates could cause.
There were numerous younglings who died that day, and the academy was on the verge of getting sealed off.
There were hundreds of complaints waiting to be looked at by the supreme authority. However, he didn't engage in this immediately.
Lucius was currently engaged in a meeting with his chief advisor and the first Prince.
There were a lot of situations to deal with; however, the Emperor was met by something more concerning.
"What did you say? Portal?" The blond man asked his advisor who was providing the report regarding the present situation in Eldoria.
"Yes, Your Majesty. Strange portals which are releasing monsters and closing off immediately."
Lucius frowned. He has never heard any such thing in the past and no records show such behaviour of monsters in the past.
"Are they any different from the Ambrobates we know?" The Prince asked, to which the Advisor nodded,
"Although their appearance is the same they contain a magical essence which is…weaker than ether and certainly weaker than Aembr."
Lucius frowned, "What do you mean?"
The bald man explained, "Yes sir, in front of ether spells, those monsters vaporized. They are far weaker than their counterparts living in Eldoria."
The youngest one asked, "Do we know where they are coming from?"
The man looked uncertain, "I can't be sure, but the soldiers on duty who gazed at the portals said the land on the other side is strange…houses larger than what one could gaze at…and some sort of strange carriage they spotted nearby."
"Any human sightings?" Lucius asked to which the chief advisor shook his head,
"No, sir. It would have been helpful if we could catch someone who doesn't just groan and roar."
Lucius heaved a sigh…Ambrobates were already millions in numbers, and now, they are getting more.
There was no clue where they were coming from and despite the fact that these monsters are relatively weaker, the number at which they are being sent here is concerning.
And not only in Eldoria, but Lucius received the report from several other kingdoms from foreign lands as well.
"Investigate the matter, Harold, and if you want, ask for Hawkbridge's help."
The bald man nodded, "I will do my best, Your Majesty."
—------**-------
A/N:- Thanks for reading. The number of reviews ain't moving!!!
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Show menu NOVEL BIN5Novel Struggling as a Villain Chapter 184: Chapter 183- PastSTRUGGLING AS A VILLAINC184: Chapter 183- Past
It might be the second time Richard was sharing his energy with Jasmine, however, little did he think the second time would be so awkward.
Not only his mother and sister but his loves as well gazed at Richard, who had Jasmine positioned on his lap with her hands wrapped around his waist and a smile of contentment on her face.
The heart Richard awakened after meeting with Zulcriz was the ultimate bank of Aembr, and as of now, all Richard could do with that was to change others into Ambrobate or share his energy with them. Richard hasn't utilized that dark energy for himself until now.
"How long does it continue, Richard?" His mother, calling him by his name unnaturally, asked.
The way she was tapping her finger on her arm it was evident that she wasn't liking the closeness of the duo. And not only her but the others were the same. Even Lilia, who has the best control over her emotions, was frowning as she continued to glare at Jasmine.
"I think this should be enough, right Jasmine?" He slowly tried to remove her, but the damn woman wrapped her hand even more firmly around him; reluctant to let go.
"Still a little left master~"
Amelia took the liberty, as the 'first wife', to separate the leech from her lover.
Resting her hand on Jasmine's shoulders and another one on Richard's, she used the strength worthy of a Hawkbridge to pull them away.
"Moh~so cruel!" Jasmine, from whom her greatest joy was snatched, sulked and glared at the raven-haired teenager.
Amelia bluntly stated, "Watch yourself, Jasmine. And wear some proper clothes from the next time before performing this…vulgar ritual."
Richard dryly smiled, "How was it vulgar?"
Every woman except for Jasmine glared at him.
In the name of clothes, all Jasmine wore was a bra and shorts that exposed most of her body. And like a succubus, there was not a single flaw in her body…and those curves were something that made every other lady in the house insecure.
Emily and Amelia are the most bothered ones since their body has yet to fully develop.
Richard chuckled as he got up from the bed and said, "Okay, now that I am done, and there is nothing else to do, why don't I prepare food for everyone today?"
Hearing Richard's words, Amelia showed great surprise and so did Emily, "You can cook?"
"Same question."
Bella grinned, "Brother has a talent for barbeque but mother never allowed him to continue with the passion."
Bellarine huffed, "Richie was good in math so I wanted him to pursue a dream worthy of him."
Hearing the two ladies bantering, most of them were confused.
Richard stepped between them and said, "Okay now, no fighting. We are already far too ahead of such a period where we can discuss my dreams and goals. Now go downstairs and prepare the barbeque grills and charcoals with others. I will go and bring the vegetables and meat."
Following his words, Bellarine, Bella, along with Amelia and Violet, went to the back garden. Jasmine went to prepare for the ritual. Elizabeth and Nora were in a separate room; probably discussing things.
Emily and Lilia were invited by Richard to the kitchen.
Lilia brought all the vegetables and meat.
Richard was washing the vegetables in a wooden tub when he asked her,
"You must be surprised to hear that I am aware of the previous timeline right?"
Lilia discerned from the things happening around her and the conversation she heard between her master and Elizabeth that there indeed was a timeline of which she was unaware.
And the fact they called him a wandering soul piqued her interest.
Emily, who was peeling carrots also listened intently as Richard told her,
"I am aware of that timeline in which we never got together, and around some time in the second year of the academy, I killed myself."
Lilia had heard about it, but still, it didn't lessen her shock at all.
"But…why master?"
Richard glanced at Emily and seeing her looking back at him, he heaved a sigh, "I misunderstood something and couldn't face reality."
Lilia discerned that whatever the cause was, Emily was a major reason for her master's death.
"So yeah, I died, then my soul was thrown to a place called Earth. I lived there for a while with a different identity until things went downhill. Then I died in that world again, and returned to this world."
Richard was done with washing the vegetables, so he brought them to the kitchen station and took the knife to dice rough and square.
Lilia had a lot of questions and she picked the one that concerned the present,
"Then…Lady Bella is your sister from the previous life?"
Richard nodded, "Yup, she is. For her, I was everything. She barely had any friends and even in the family, her favorite was me."
"It's the same now as well," Emily added with a smile. Having siblings who don't care about her, Emily sometimes feels envious of Richard and Bella's bond.
Richard chuckled, "True."
Lilia thought for a moment before asking, "There…wasn't anyone else back in that world who was close to you?"
The hand that was restlessly chopping the cucumber slowly came to a halt as the face of a certain tomboy came to his mind.
However, he soon shook his head, "There was a close friend, but I don't know whether she is even alive or not."
Lilia and Emily narrowed their eyes as the first thought that came to their minds was,
'Why always a woman?'
As Richard continued to dice the vegetables he added, "It has been a crazy journey, Lilia…I met so many people, lived two lives, and died two times. But thanks to this third chance, I was able to meet you…make so many memories together and feel excited for the upcoming future."
Lilia smiled, and this time she didn't restrain her emotions from showing it on her face.
She held the hem of his shirt and slowly whispered, "The feeling is mutual."
Soon, the trio began to cut and prepare the necessary ingredients, and Richard made the marinade in which everything goes.
Once they were done, they carried the thing towards the backside….only to halt in shock upon seeing the scene awaiting.
"What the….." Richard stared at the flame torches reaching the skies by the two ladies who share the same name.
Bellarine was conjuring flames that reached almost forty feet, with a smug look on her face.
Meanwhile, Bella was only able to launch flames at the height of twenty or so feet.
"Weak~" Bellarine softly whispered, making Bella grit her teeth and use her both hands to extend the flames even more.
Richard asked, "You guys do know that you can possibly send SOS in that way right?"
Bellarine shrugged, "The Academy is already in an emergency. More help will be beneficial."
Richard couldn't believe his mother was justifying her little stunt.
Amelia, who was sitting nearby, couldn't help but ask, "How far can your flames go, Richard?"
Richard huffed, "Not you too now, Amelia."
"I am also curious, baby!" Bellarine chimed as she urged him, "Come here and replace the weak one."
Bella was on the verge of redirecting the flames to her mother—however, upon realizing the futility, she snarled and released the hold on her flames.
Richard ruffled her hair softly and whispered, "Don't mind her; she is just joking."
Bella shyly smiled, "Mm…"
Lilia also was now curiously watching and Jasmine appeared out of nowhere when she heard that her master was showcasing his strength.
Everyone now watched Richard in anticipation and excitement as Richard stood beside his mother and folded his sleeve.
"This is so childish…" Heaving a sigh he finally raised his hand.
A small magic circle formed above his palm before a stream of flames erupted from the circle.
"Woah…" Amelia's eyes sparkled, seeing the beauty of the flames as she watched it grow in height until it reached around Bellarine's pillar.
However, anyone could tell that Richard's flame torch was about a few feet shorter than Bellarine's.
Bellarine grinned before extending her hand and patting her son's shoulder, "Aww baby…don't worry your Mom will train you even more in private later, okay?"
Richard smirked before he glanced at her and said, "I would suggest you remove your hand."
Bellarine was startled by those words but she followed his instructions and did as he said.
Under everyone's astonished gazes, Richard's body was suddenly engulfed in flames, nothing but his eyes visible.
"God…" Emily exclaimed as she saw the flame torches, now not only surpassing Bellarine but piercing through the sky and illuminating the surface.
Bellarine smiled in satisfaction and even before Richard could have switched from his elemental form, she jumped on him.
"Baaaaby~~~~"
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A/N:- So yeah, he is the (one of the) strongest sorcerers on Clion. Thanks for reading. Drop some comments and PS.
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Show menu NOVEL BIN5Novel Struggling as a Villain Chapter 185: Chapter 184- ChildhoodSTRUGGLING AS A VILLAINC185: Chapter 184- Childhood
Around the campfire everyone sat, enjoying each other's company, savoring the delicious food and fizzy drinks.
Richard and Lilia were taking turns to grill the food while Violet helped with other things, even though she wasn't told to move much.
Well, she had a reason to suddenly show such urgency to bring something to drink for others, since she wanted to dash away from the conversation where they were headed.
But, "She did?" Bellarine asked in surprise, as she heard Amelia revealing things Violet said that day.
Her wish to not change jobs, not because of her parents' debt but rather because of her fondness towards Richard, was something that touched the lady's heart.
Turning towards the blue-haired girl who has her eyes drawn to the ground and faces slightly red, Bellarine said,
"I knew you adored your childhood friend, that's why I chose you initially to serve him during his time in the academy."
Emily was surprised, "Violet was your first choice? Over Lilia, no less?" That piqued the brunette's attention, but naturally, she didn't say anything between them.
Amelia asked her, "It was that training period right?"
Lilia felt embarrassed before she nodded, "Yes...during that period, I realized my feelings…and because of that, the young master decided to bring me here as well."
Jasmine chirped, "Master is irresistible. He seduced me with just his presence."
Emily rolled her eyes, "That's not possible."
Jasmine argued, "Really~I thought at least you would understand how I feel~"
Emily's face turned red hearing that as she tried to hit Jasmine with her elbow, only to miss as the raven-haired swatted the arm away.
Bella turned her gaze toward Violet and asked, "You are Brother's childhood friend?"
Violet suddenly felt a lot of stress descending on her shoulder, she nodded nevertheless, "Yes."
Crossing her long legs, she sat straight and asked her, "How was Brother during his childhood?"
Every eye turned towards Violet now since Violet can provide a different perception of Richard from when he was a child. As for Bellarine, then, in every line, she added 'adorable' when talking about Richard's childhood.
Violet glanced at her master and found him looking back at her with a smile on his face, which exposed that he was also interested in knowing what she had to say.
Violet took a deep breath before confessing, "He was.. self-centered most of the time and someone who loved to have attention to him. He used to get easily jealous if I paid attention to someone else and also, young master loved to be praised while pretending to be self-aware of his qualities."
Without missing a single thing that she thought about him, Violet confessed.
Bella's expression turned grim, as she asked, "Are you sure we are talking about the same person? My brother has never been like that even during childhood."
Violet gulped as her face turned slightly pale upon seeing those piercing eyes.
With a chuckle, Richard added, "She is right, Bella; I used to act all high and mighty even though I was nothing at that time. Some blame lands on Mom, who used to give me all the freedom that a little child shouldn't get."
Bellarine huffed; crossing her arms, she complained, "Now that you have grown up, you are now complaining about how much I love you?"
Richard stepped toward his mother, and after sitting down beside her, he told her, "It's not that...maybe if you had scolded me once in a while for possessing such a mean attitude, I might not have ruined Violet's childhood."
Hanging out with such a rude kid, as an obligation no less, must have been painful for her—Richard thought.
However, "I never said you ruined my childhood, young master." Violet, unexpectedly spoke even without someone asking her to.
Richard raised his brows as he heard the girl adding,
"I have always been a shy person who seldom talked to someone...and often my words hurt other kids. So my parents told me to be careful of what I say in front of others, especially young master."
A very rare smile appeared on her face. With her gaze drawn to Richard, and she said, "However, young master always encouraged me to speak whatever I had in mind. If the request didn't work, he commanded me. And thanks to him, I don't have a forgetful childhood; the memories of those times remain vividly in me."
The group turned silent upon hearing that. The smile on Violet and Richard's faces expressed many things, and only both of them knew what was the reason behind their smile.
Amelia suddenly grumbled, "It's unfair that I got to know Richard so late."
Bellarine added, "As his second wife, it's okay to know Richie that much."
"Yeah right...wait!" Not only Amelia but Bella and even Emily frowned, but the blond girl soon corrected her expression.
Richard gulped; sensing this conversation to be heading toward a dangerous route, so he was thinking to switch topics.
However, he didn't need to as suddenly two new people entered the conversation,
"Richard," Elizabeth called out, "I think we are ready."
Richard got up and looked at Nora before asking, "All set, Princesses? Any doubt you may have, ask right away."
Nora weakly raised her hand and asked, "Umm...after the ritual I won't feel the same way Emily feels toward you, right?"
She didn't want to have her feelings changed. Although she knows that she couldn't love anyone except for Ethan, the ritual might end up making her self-doubt and twisted.
Richard assured her, "Emily's case was different. There wasn't much time so I used the direct method of making her my Shadow, just like Jasmine. However, you two would be devoted to serving the Deity of Darkness. Nothing more."
Nora heaved a sigh of relief, before Elizabeth asked, "And about our memories of the previous timeline?"
Richard shrugged, "I can't tell since I am not one of the Apostles nor do I know how the deities would act. You have been warned."
Elizabeth's shoulders slumped, "Well, I don't trust them so I have prepared. Anyway, we are ready. When do we start?"
Richard glanced at Jasmine before the girl stepped forward, "Follow me."
Seeing the three ladies walking away, Richard told the others, "We should get some rest. And Mom, can we talk?"
Bellarine nodded, albeit a bit confused seeing her baby's expression turning a little serious.
"Richard?" Amelia asked as she held his hand softly, "Is everything okay?"
Richard gave her a soft nod, "Yeah, don't worry." Planting a soft kiss on her forehead he whispered, "Wait for me in your room. It won't take long."
Amelia happily smiled before she walked along Violet towards the mansion.
Bella was asked by Richard to keep an eye on the ritual and inform him if something happened.
The mother and son entered the latter's study room where Richard offered his mother a chair.
"What is it, baby?" Bellarine asked as she sat down.
Richard rested his back against the table before asking, "How supportive the Scarlette clan will be if I suddenly decide to take over the Emberclad Empire?"
Bellarine was shocked to hear that. However, she soon recovered and assured him, "They will support you. Not only are you the descendent of the Sage and the Flame Warden, but you have also awakened the true essence of your predecessors."
Bellarine then paused before asking, "But baby, are you sure you want to get involved with politics? I remember you no longer wanted to expand your authority?"
Richard refused Bellarine's proposal to become the next Duke immediately since he doesn't like politics and other stuff that prohibits him from using his strength in battles.
However, now he was suddenly suggesting to take over a whole Empire...was a bit shocking.
Regardless, the elder Scarlette was prepared to help him in any way he asked her to.
Richard remained silent for a moment before telling her, "Things have changed, Mom…because of my presence the side of Light would come at us more fiercely. And now they have a demi-god on their side; which means we have to be prepared."
Bellarine was aware of the fact that they would be standing on the side of Darkness during the war since her baby was the inheritor of a God's essence.
As such she showed no reluctance, "I will go and talk to them as soon as I can."
Richard added, "I will come with you." Richard will first ask for cooperation and if the Emperor refuses then he would be left with no option.
"You are coming with me?!"
Bellarine's excited voice surprised him but he nodded, "Yeah…?"
Bellarine jumped in excitement, "Yay! You will love that place and your relatives. Oh, I am so excited."
Richard couldn't help but tilt his head in confusion seeing the reaction. However before he could have asked anything, suddenly a letter flew to halt before Bellarine.
Bellarine frowned as she took the letter and looked at the sender's name.
Looking at her son, she said, "It's from the Emperor."
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A/N:- Thanks for reading.
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