#astralxyuma

[azura19]

I need your help, I'm obsessed with the idea that Aren (Don Thousand) is and always will be Astral's "mother". 👌😔 Hahahahahaha, and am I the only one who sees how her image alone, her person is elegant and stylish, contrary to what Eliphas represents? Please! See how beautiful and perfect he is! 😍✨

[spiritualpuzzleshipper]

Got a new keychain today! Now I have mu #yugiohduelmonsters OTP and my #yugiohzexal OTP together! I iz so happy 😍 #yugioh #Ilovealltheseries #keyshipping #puzzleshipping #yamixyugi #atemuxyugi #astralxyuma #theyarethesameshipIswear #Ikidyounot! #Ilovetheseboys #andmyspiritlikeboys #astralisanalienIguessthoughonlyumacanseehim #atleastintheseasonIamon #stilllovehim #andatemuofcourse #amiamimail #yugiohmail https://www.instagram.com/p/BwnojcxgiZU/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=kfmuhcfmmjeg

[azura19]

Observation No. 1:

Why did Astral accept Yuma? He is just as crazy as he is.

Several wondered, many in fact warned. "If you accept Yuma, your life could be hell."

Ah, the threat was blunt. Nevertheless, Astral seemed happy. Very happy.

And even though Yuma had threatened his family, his beloved father Eliphas and his mother Aren; wrecked his car and even murdered his cat, Astral still looked totally delighted.

"Is he crazy?" they wondered.

But when they discovered 'that' secret, perhaps everything seemed to fall into place.

Was it normal for Astral to have a secret room upholstered with photos and Yuma's belongings in glass cases? With spy cameras in different angles of his own house to observe his lover?

No... That was not normal.

And although they tried to leave that day, only one lived to tell the tale.

The reason, why Astral, had accepted Yuma as his lover.

Astral, he was just as crazy, if not crazier, than Yuma.

Do you imagine these are okay? My mind is very active. 😗😗🤗👌

[azura19]

Fanfic up!

Ding! ding! good things must be said three times!

And, finally the first chapter of my fanfic “Villain Please Don't Die!” (Keyshipping my OTP) was published. Ahhhh, you don't know how excited I am right now. It's totally amazing that after so much effort, this project is finally seeing the light.

Why, you know? This fic is also in Spanish, but that it can now be seen in an English-speaking environment. It's fantastic! I thank those of you who are aware of it. I hope you like it as much as I did when I wrote and translated it.

Oh, and if you like my work. Please support me! A heart costs nothing, haha.

[azura19]

Hey, thank you if you made it this far!

I see you're a big fan of Keyshipping and Yu-Gi-Oh! In general, congratulations! If you're looking for good content this is the right place.

Next, I'll leave you one of my main projects, I hope you like it and enjoy it!

Title: Villain please don't die! Category: Yaoi, Drama, Tragedy, Fantasy, Romance, +18, sensitive themes, mature content, Period, transmigration, Mpreg. Couple: Keyshipping. Summary:

Astral, who had read transmigration novels, never imagined he would see himself in that situation. His life was over, but a new one was beginning in a novel in the glare of the moment. The problem. He couldn't go home. The second problem. This was a BL novel (a matter that was not relevant to him, as he was not exactly straight). And third problem, he was going to die soon.

Ey! Clik! Here! 👇👇👇👇👇

Cover page/ Complete Summary

[azura19]

Chapter 1.1:

The Nobility of a Villain

Once upon a time, in a land forgotten by time, there was a Duchy of vast territory and vast beauty.

There dwelt the Grand Duke, Elifas Encinereb and his beloved husband, Aren of Encinereb, two men who loved each other with all their hearts and who showed their love as openly as they cared for their people.

Their love story was known to many, the people loved them and they were praised for exactly the same, had no one ever heard of such benevolent and noble figures? Not to worry, society itself recognised them.

There was no corner of the Duchy that did not love such magnanimous beings.

And even within the nobility, there was sympathy for the couple and their actions towards their title and their power.

Surely this was a perfect and unprecedented marriage, what any good love story would wish to be.

Sadly, however, this is not the beautiful story of these two men who led with kindness and intelligence. Rather, of the fruit of their love.

The next Grand Duke Encinereb:  Astral Encinereb.

A beautiful boy with skin as fair as milk and hair as white as snow in winter. With an intelligence so high that it surpassed even that of his progenitor, his abilities in his studies and on the battlefield made many turn to him with admiration or suspicion.

This young man could very well be classed as the epitome of the cultured and the beautiful. But as was specific from the beginning, there is one detail that marks this story.

And that is the simple fact that the young man was neither the fittest nor the most willing to continue with his duties.

Yes, as you can imagine, this is the story of a Villain.

A truly evil and greedy one who ended up in the worst way one could imagine.

Bringing his own family and Duchy to ruin.

Beginning his decadence once Astral Encinereb became obsessed with none other than the protagonist of this novel: ‘Michael Arclight’. 

A handsome young man, who had the misfortune to meet the villain, and thanks to his aura full of purity, caused his world to turn upside down.

Being harassed to the point where he almost ended his own life in order to be free, the power wielded by Astral Encinereb being enough to harass him to such a degree.

It all seemed to be a dark novel until the timely appearance of the second protagonist of the story and the love interest of the first protagonist: Vector Varian.

A talented swordsman who managed to become Chief of the Empire's forces, and who saved him in many ways, acting as a shield to ward off the Villain who, filled with rage, tried by all means to kill them both for such ‘betrayal’.

He abandoned his Duchy, helping the Villain's hidden and exiled brother to come out into the open to regain his position in the family. And whom, in a fit of rage, the Villain mercilessly murdered.

The domino effect inevitably fell on him. This helped the protagonists to rise triumphantly against the threats of Astral Encinereb, who, in his last strength, forced his own people to take up arms against the second protagonist.

He failed spectacularly once his own people rebelled against him.

The lynching and torture that followed at the hands of hungry peasants marked the end of the villain as the happily ever after of both protagonists. Concluding the whole story on two sides that led to melancholy for the couple of Dukes killed by the fruit of their love and a real joy to know that at least a new couple of Marquis was born.

Remarking that good will always remain above evil. No matter how dark it may be and no matter where it comes from.

That novel entitled, Flowers of Seasons, was and remained a great success in sales and other promotions in his honour.

So much so that...

Astral Mertencia.

A simple boss of a small growing company dedicated exclusively to design and fashion; he was even tempted by curiosity to read it.

His name was used too, so why not take a look at it? Nothing would happen, besides a good reading moment.

And even though, even though, he didn't like those kind of novels. Especially BL. --Which was strange even for his boyfriend Yuma, who would scoff at seeing him do what he disliked, and that Astral would take it out on lover's hips. --It was never a reason to put that novel aside.

In fact, just as it happened to those who came to read it, Astral found himself enjoying the story and especially the emotional ending of the protagonists. That the villain got what he deserved at his own hand was also poetic, and what about the tragic ending, a delight. The story lived up to its popularity.

The novel was an outlet for his busy life, but like all good endings, the rest had to continue.

His cunning and intelligence, coupled with his kindness, helped his company to become a leader in an entire city. Success was a consequence of his actions and came inevitably, and perhaps this could have continued until, unfortunately, it didn´t.

Both he and his beloved were involved in a serious traffic accident. Tarnishing their great future.

The result was terrible, both, he and his future husband lost their lives.

Oh boy, it was unfortunate, and maybe it would have been all there, however....

—Mn... —

He sighs.

Can one breathe in purgatory? In the life beyond death?

His heart began to beat much faster.

No, breathing should be impossible. But... Wait, heart? His heart is beating?

And then...

He woke up.

He blinked, again and again until his vision became accustomed to the light, and it was only then that he came upon a canopy.

One of dark silk and gilded edges reminiscent of gold.

Was heaven or hell this beautiful? Astral wished to touch what was presented to him, what did he expect? Everything and nothing in particular. He was dead and honestly; he was so scared that for a moment he could have sworn he was going to cry.

The memories of his death were still fresh, and perhaps he would have concentrated on what he had lost until another detail caught his attention.

His skin.

His skin now appeared to be milky and pale, his fingers, which had been a little shorter, now appeared long, and what about his delicacy, it was as if he had accompanied his boyfriend to the beauty parlour! It was incredible, and although scars adorned his arms in a rough way, it didn't take away from the feeling of care.

—What the...? Ah! —

Oh boy, that was another detail! His voice. It seemed to be thicker than usual, I could even describe it as sexy or mysterious. A silky voice that would make you hesitate as much as a siren's song.

—Why...? —Hundreds of doubts suddenly assailed his mind. Was this how it felt to be on the other side, or why did he feel as if he were still alive?

He lowered his hand, and looked around

Oh, by all the gods, this was a dream! It had to be a dream! Because how did he explain the fact that wealth, in capital letters, was displayed just for him in the room.

Wait, room?

Okay, Astral was confused. A lot to tell the truth, so he palmed his face a little, spotting a full-length mirror in that place, without a second thought, he got up to run over to it, finding that his reflection no longer greeted Astral Mertencia.

No. This image, he had to admit, was much better. No! A thousand times better, even. He was a true beauty.

His once slightly dull hair was now unblemished snow white, sporting a form that defied gravity. His skin, which had already been touched countless times by the sun and her boyfriend, was now milky and well cared for, and although it was dotted with discreet and deep scars, it was still a delight

And what about the rest? The sleek pyjamas gave a glimpse of musculature that murmured of an excellent workout. And the veins marked on his hands, only added to the truth that his eyes saw...

Eyes that, he noticed, also had changes.

His gaze was heterochromatic. Two colours rested in them. One golden and the other silver.

And he was fully aware that his previous look was not like that. His real eyes were golden, plain and simple. A normal thing where he came from, and yet....

The mirror did not deceive him, no matter how desperately he touched it. The cold, vivid sensation was...

It was...

Terrifying.

Was he dead and this was heaven?

No. The beating of his heart indicated the opposite, so...

What was going on? He didn't know anything around him, he had no idea who the person in the mirror was, and above all, he didn't know what he had to face.

Was he crazy, was he hallucinating already, or was that the so-called account of life before death? And if that was the case, wasn't he supposed to look at HIS own life and the sins he bore? Because, well, he had to admit it. Well, well... It wasn't exactly, if you count his youthful involvement in the military and an elite elimination team, he should be burning in the flames of hell, right? Or in a dark place. But this...

This was definitely beyond his limits.

What was he supposed to do now? Thousands of questions swirled in his head, and as he was about to decide to break away from that demonic mirror, something else happened. Something that...

Almost made him laugh...

Let us emphasize the almost, for a butler, wrapped in a black and elegant suit suddenly entered the room, and his face, which was stoic and emotionless, and which had already been touched by time, suddenly became wrinkled.

Ah, a miracle! It was a miracle. He felt that butler within his, and as if his heart had decided to mark that feeling on his face, he suddenly cried out loudly and to the four winds.

—My young Lord Astral! Lord Astral has awakened! Call the Encinereb Lords! The heir to the Duchy has awakened! —

And then with that simple fact. Astral Mertencia, who was kept inside a body that was not his, knew.

He was screwed.

Really screwed.

In fact, there was no human being worse off than he was now. He'd heard about it before, but.... Really...

He had been reincarnated in a stupid BL novel as the main villain!

Ah, but that wasn't all, no sir.

His parents came calling! Did he say he was an orphan before? Well, that was no longer relevant. Because now, he had to overcome this new challenge yes or yes, otherwise, he was sure he would be taken to the stake.

Oh yes, now Astral was sure.

He was paying for his sins.

How unlucky for him.

💎

Chapter 1.2

[azura19]

Chapter 1 ↩

Chapter 2.1:

Suspicion and Miracle

Far from the Duchy of Encinereb, just in one of the next territories almost adjacent to it, is the Duchy of Arclight, belonging to the current Grand Duke Byron Arclight.

A man of great beauty and intelligence, with blond hair tied in a braid, and a body that looked as if it had been chiselled by the hands of hundreds of angels. A man so handsome that he ranked among the highest that gossip bulletins boasted. He was the kind of perfect man who, if he were to take a new wife, no doubt hundreds of Maids and Maidens would line up to take his place.

Byron Arclight was famous, handsome and a good catch, let there be no doubt about that, however, as well as possessing a handsome face, he also hid part of his personality.

Byron is the man you call to get a nice evening, that's true, but you could also call him to get rid of a body and he wouldn't have a problem either. Simply put, Byron was a wolf in sheep's clothing. Possessed of a fine tongue imbued with venom, shrewd in business, and shrewd when it came to his territory.

Byron Arclight, current owner of the Duchy Arclight, can be said to be a cunning and ambitious fox. Protective of his own and cruel to others. A man who is hard to underestimate, and why? One need only look at his Duchy:

A vast territory filled with abundance and wealth beyond what gold might seem to any Marquez.

Its forte, which was agricultural production, was perfectly combined with the exploitation of mines and rivers, where the most beautiful jewels of the Dion Empire were obtained, —jewels which, by the way, were well received throughout the length and breadth of the Empire. —

Needless to say, because of this. The Arclight family gained the favour and approval of the current Emperor and Empress, who, in return for their loyalty, wore these jewels in truly important matters involving the Ladies and Donceles of the Empire as well as the affairs of State. A point that was relevant when it came to increasing sales and prestige.

So relevant was not only Byron, but the entire Duchy of Arclight; and this prosperity, along with the tranquillity, might have continued had this not been a RoFan novel scenario, remembering who the main character and villain in turn was.

Byron fell victim to the wiles of Astral Encinereb: A curse turned him back to an infant of tender age, his body that was praised, returned to that of a child. His voice that was praised was now criticised for its sweetness.

It was indeed fortunate that Byron retained his conscience and maturity, otherwise it might have been his precious children who would have suffered most:

Christopher Arclight, Thomas Arclight and Michael Arclight, the last being the only beautiful Doncel in the family, and by far the most important. He was the protagonist.

And perhaps at this point we will all think that Michael should be surrounded by luxury and involved in a passionate love that could lead to marriage, however, and again, this is a RoFan novel. So it was obvious who it was he was stuck with.

Ah, a pity indeed. Such a beautiful flower was also a victim of Astral Encinereb's wiles, and not only that, he also suffered from violent courtship and courtship, and though he tried to always hide the marks or evidence, the rumours were never kind to his ears nor alien to his family.

They were trapped, and it felt as if the threads of a poisonous spider were slowly beginning to suffocate them.

It was a pity that the Encinereb family held the same power, otherwise....

Otherwise...

No, it was not worth thinking about what would happen, Michael thought that having illusions was his first step to madness, so closing his lips and putting up with the abuse was a better solution. He didn't want to think about a would-have-been if all it would do was hurt his heart; so mustering all the maturity he could at fourteen, he shut his heart tight.

If his fate was to be killed at the hands of Astral Encinereb, he would accept it, for the sake of his family.

He didn't need hope, because it was useless, and he didn't need pity, because it was pathetic. Michael was a nobleman, and as such, his brow would be held high until his heart was ripped out.

Wasn't that the best way to fight? His case, for better or worse. He wasn't the only one, so, following in the footsteps of other trapped Ladies and Donceles like him, shouldn't that make things easier?

Ah, poor child. No doubt he was naïve.

Carrying around so much grief makes him believe that he really will save everyone, doesn't it? No, that wasn't even remotely possible. And even though Michael wasn't aware that he was the main character and would therefore enjoy the halo of the protagonist, it still wasn't enough to stand up to Astral Encinereb: The Main Villain. So, all that was left for him to do was to remain a pretty but battered doll in a shop window until his best buyer arrived.

Such were the laws of this world, and as such, he had to endure. But, perhaps, there are things that can be twisted at will, like the crooked lines of God.

Oh, that was what one more background character thought.

Yes, we are talking about another transmigrated soul who now occupied the body with which he shares a name. Yuma of Mertencia, or better known to the protagonist as Yuma Tsukumo, his Company Knight.

Ah the world is small, or should I say novel? Be that as it may, this soul, who arrived two months ago, could not simply take everything for granted. So, using the infallible ‘clinging to the protagonist's thighs for survival’ move, he heeded his instincts and moved quickly to get to exactly where he was, and where he played a role of perhaps little relevance.

Could anyone blame him for looking out for his own life? Perhaps, but Yuma being Yuma Mertencia who played a commanding role in his old world and knew how to move in just such an environment, malicious rumours were his bread and butter, and he knew how to dispatch them appropriately.

So all that was left for him to do was to hold on to the main character in order to have a good life and that was it, once the main villain fell he could go and live quietly with a large sum of money in a villa and stay there until he died.

Ah, it was certainly a perfect retirement plan, but between imagination and action, he still had to concentrate on what lay ahead.

A message had arrived in the Grand Duchy, and he, like a good messenger, broke the news as soon as it arrived.

‘The next Grand Duke Encinereb had fallen into bed with a sudden fever.’

That was what the message said, but for Yuma, an avid reader of the novel ‘Flowers of the Seasons’, this was certainly strange, as he could not remember, no matter how much he thought about it, a scene similar to this one described on any page of the novel.

And although it was true that he skipped several pages because of his future husband's quick reading, he doesn't remember anything like that happening. Could it be because of his reincarnation? Perhaps, since he barely understood that he was still alive after a frightening and shocking crash.

In a different world, but alive all the same.

So, something felt strange. Like a foreboding growing in his chest; he wished to inquire, but his duty unfortunately came first, so using the protagonist as an excuse, he was allowed to accompany him for a brief visit to the Astral Duke Encinereb.

It was all for appearances sake of course, and although the Villain's progenitors seemed blind to the protagonist's trembling at any movement the Villain made, that was irrelevant to his assessment of the situation.

Astral Encinereb was bedridden, moaning softly in pain. There was no sign of poisoning, no sign of seizures, so everything was unclear, even down to his fever. Do fevers just strike out of nowhere without medical precedent? It was true that in this world, they still lacked relevant medical knowledge like microbes or bacteria, but... Still...

Wouldn't it be a sin to look so fucking handsome even in such a precarious state! Ah, Yuma couldn't handle that wicked beauty! Wasn't it unfair to all the sick people in the world? What an insult!

Yuma was grumbling silently, so he barely noticed when Michael said enough was enough and consequently dragged him all the way back to the Arclight Duchy.

Hmp. It was a pity, Yuma thought he might have found out more, but he barely had time to listen in on the rumours going around inside the Encinereb Duchy from afar.

The evil man was still evil.

Yuma felt that what he knew was there, but, still, there was something that seemed to be lost in plain sight. Should he investigate further? No. Maybe it wasn't a good idea, especially now that weeks later another message was arriving, much to the protagonist's misery.

Astral Encinereb had woken up, and not only that, his parents demanded that he go to see him, so the protagonist had no choice but to do as he was asked, even if it was the least he wanted.

Undoubtedly a pity, but that was irrelevant to Yuma. He already knew what the ending would be, so why worry now?

And as his job as a Company Knight dictated, he did what he had to. Making his way to the Michael's room, opening the doors loudly as he announced himself with great enthusiasm. Overshadowing the slim, pale figure of the protagonist.

—Good morning III! The sun is shining and so are we. It's time to get up... –

—¡Yuma...! —

Michael laughed, barely gently, jumping with fright at the sudden appearance, leaving aside that nickname which had accompanied him from his early childhood, and which even his friend insisted on mentioning.

—Y-You're quite enthusiastic even in the mornings. Anything new happen? —

—Nothing at all. —

Was Yuma's quick reply, so Michael blinked repeatedly before sighing, much calmer.

—Ah... I see. —The short conversation seemed to have ended right there, but Yuma was the one who added:

—Well, today is a beautiful day and we must not waste it. You must get ready to go to your abuser. —

—Yuma! —

Michael once again scolded his best friend with a tone that betrayed a simple but immense terror.

—You know very well that... —

Yuma had clearly said it all with purpose, yet this mattered little to him, so he smiled with a mean glint before interrupting his Master.

—Yes, yes. He is to be called by his name, your Excellency, the Astral Duke, I know. But you know something, he's not here? —

—Yuma. –

Michael said again urgently, as if he feared that at any moment he would receive a blow from this terrible man. So Yuma, knowing that this was necessary for the protagonist to suffer, shrugged his shoulders, before leading the other to the bathroom, where he began the whole process of grooming him.

Oh, wasn't he heartless? Yuma was laughing at himself, but who could blame him — wasn't it the protagonist who would get the best end of the stick in the end? At least he, as an unimportant character, was allowed to annoy him for a moment, wasn't he?

Well, be that as it may, he still had to deal with his trembling Master, who spoke to him in the same tone with which he was trembling all the time.

—...N-No, but, you still have to maintain respect at all times.... —

Yuma wanted to tell Michael that this fear was unnecessary, however, he just kept on grooming him with his usual encouragement.

—It's all right, relax, I know you're tense.... But Duke Astral isn't here, so you're safe. Everything will be fine, I'll be with you if it's necessary... —Yuma promised in his usual manner, but, visualising the protagonist's anxiety at wanting to bite his precious nails, he was moved. —Ah! I forgot to tell you, but Lord Christopher said that he would accompany you to the Encinereb Duchy... –

—My brother? —Michael questioned with full curiosity, and barely letting go the trembling in his body, while allowing his hair to wash, he looked shyly at his companion, who smiled warmly at him.

—Yes, he said that he would prepare to take you and act as escort, since Lord Vector had to leave on a mission entrusted by Lord Byron... —

—Vector... —III called out gloomily.

It was more than obvious that the name would resonate with him at all times, so Yuma, leaving his master to lose himself in his own thoughts, finished his work in a timely manner.

So, when lunchtime arrived, Michael was already finely prepared and presentable for what was about to happen.

The white lace and slightly low—cut dress, together with the emerald—coloured precious jewels and the pair of low heels, only emphasised the unnatural beauty of the protagonist, even when he had a drooping and sickly countenance. No one would deny that he was a beautiful rose about to wilt.

Yuma had done an excellent job, so bowing to his master, he announced the next thing to be done.

—My Master is the most beautiful in the Empire, nay, in the whole World. So please don't show that bitter countenance. His father and brothers are already waiting for him in the dining room. –

—Is that so? —

Yuma stood up again, and nodded softly in reply.

—That's right, so please let's go to the dining room. It would be bad to keep your family waiting, wouldn't it? —

—You're right. —Michael nodded, and stood up and looked at himself once more in the mirror.

The intricate hairstyle, the shape of his eyes, his pale skin, the make—up doing a great job of covering up the last of his wounds. Yes, it was certainly an exceptional job. But... He could still see that vacant look in his own eyes. Wasn't that an ugly look for a life partner?

Michael was about to lose himself in his ramblings once more, but Yuma intervened before it happened. Taking up a position beside his Master, next to the mirror.

—My Master needs to have more confidence in himself. You are beautiful, and I'm sure you could become happy if you wish. —

—With his Excellency, Duke Encinereb? —Michael questioned wryly, and feeling the corners of his eyes twitch, he tried to smile as he always did, but only got a strange grimace.

Yuma, for one, sighed: would it be a sin to tell the protagonist the truth about his future? He wasn't sure, but it was better not to tempt fate, so he only managed to say.

—You look beautiful, and I'm sure you'll be well received at Encinereb Manor this time. —

III doubted it. But he said nothing, and walking to the door, he added:

—Father must be exasperated by now, I have been delayed longer than usual. –

Yuma, seeing the real picture, gently denied.

—I doubt it. You are his greatest treasure... At best he'll be worried that you won't be here at the appointed time.... —

—Maybe... —

Michael smiled just softly before denying and trying to clear his head of vain ideas, he walked to the dining room, where Yuma parted in silence and where his loving but small father greeted him.

—Ah, good morning III, did you sleep well? —

I could not close my eyes for most of the night. He wanted to answer, but he merely replied, sitting down in his assigned place with a pleasant smile.

—I did... And I'm looking forward to today... —

—Is it because of seeing me today? —Byron joked, so Michael blinked at his father's sudden childish display and laughed barely audibly. Much improving his mood.

Ah. Couldn't he stay like this all day today? Michael begged inwardly, but could barely ingest a mouthful when his older brother arrived, almost slamming the doors. With a humour that might be compared to dogs fighting for food.

—That bastard! Couldn't he have been in a coma? —

Michael must not have been a genius to know who he was referring to, so trying to ignore that fact, he tried to get the food past his mouth.

—Why didn't he die? Should I send more assassins? Any bandits? —

—You'd better calm those tempers. Thomas. —The father of the family looked sideways at his youngest offspring. —Are you blind? You're in the dining room, sit down and behave. —

—Huh? —

Thomas who had arrived like a hurricane, noticing that his younger brother was already present in the dining room, changed his mood to a much more nervous one, so obeying his father, he tried to fix what he had broken.

—A—Ah, today's b—breakfast looks exquisite.... Is it because of some event? —The patriarch of the family looked at him angrily before sighing.

Why was his second son so impulsive? Well, whatever. He had a new task now, and that was to cheer up the only Doncel in the place.

—Not at all, Thomas. This is a present for Michael, for his continued effort with the housework and his studies... —

—Ah. —Thomas understood the hidden message, and his father's purpose, and tried to contribute to the task.  —III, today you woke up cuter than usual. It is obvious that something would be done in your honour? Isn't that right, dad? —

—Yes, yes, yes. It's just as you say. —Both men laughed as if they had told a nice anecdote, but there was only a small reaction from Michael, who, after understanding that his family was trying to make him feel good, blushed at the attempt at flattery.

Is this what he would protect with his sacrifice? He hoped so, otherwise? No, it wasn't worth thinking about.

Michael shook his head softly, and raising his visitor again, smiled brightly. Yes, this was the only way.

And as if good fortune had smiled on him, Michael and his family continued to talk until the butler entered and cut short the momentary happiness, giving way to bitterness.

—My Lord. The lady's carriage has been prepared. We are ready to leave... —

Michael had scarcely time to finish his meal, for anxiety prevented any more food from coming in. So rising, he quickly said what he had to do.

—I will see your Excellency, Duke Astral. And once the meeting is over, I will quickly return home. —

Byron, who held up one of his tender hands to stop him, half—stood, so hopelessly. He nodded at the words, and thinking what he could do to protect his son, announced his own move.

—Michael, Christopher will accompany you, and Yuma will be your chaperone. Take them with you and go carefully. —

—Father... —Michael, who could barely stand the pressure, was grateful for the gesture, so nodding again, he headed for the exit. But not before taking one more look at his worried family.

If he could protect them then... It would all have been worth it.

💎

Chapter 2.2

[azura19]

Chapter 1.2

Chapter 1.3

So, the next morning the first thing he did was to wake up in a good mood, he would start operation kindness! So, trying his best to get what he wanted, as a first attempt he smiled at his servant, who was just now helping him to dress.

And though he knew that he himself was terrifying, his disappointment was great when his servant visibly trembled before attending to him as he should, fearing some blow or reprimand that ended in equally severe blows or unpleasant punishments.

It was to be expected, wasn't it?

Astral honestly couldn't blame him, for that's how much of a scum he was as the villain of that novel. So, deciding that his sandbags would start to pile up from now on, he raised his voice, trying to sound calm and gentle. Though perhaps not so much that some mental illness might be alluded to by the change in his personality.

—Have you been resting well? —

Well, he was lousy at starting a servant-master conversation, but this was something, wasn't it? No one would question him anyway. So, he was fine. And glancing sidelong at his servant, he waited for an answer, which never came. For the other only shrugged his shoulders before nodding and denying almost at the same time. With terror so deep that it made his colour change to pale.

Isn't that too much? Astral wanted to ask, but held back so he still tried to get to the same point.

—Ah, you can talk if you want to... —

Perhaps the servant needed approval?

—I-I'd rather not disturb you, young sir... —

No. Apparently not, as the other quickly shook his head nervously. Continuing on his way, he removed Astral's pyjamas, taking care not to touch the exposed skin in any way.

Well, Astral knew it wasn't going to be easy. So, the second step was next: Try to convince him.

—Don't be modest. All right, that's an order. There will be no consequences... —

Astral waited, but that servant didn't seem to hear him. He only nodded before walking away to choose his Young Lord's clothes for the day.

‘This isn't going anywhere’ Astral thought before simply denying softly.

Understanding that, he had more things to fix than to impose. The routine going on before, by mistake, that servant gently injured one of the exposed arms with the chosen sack.

Terror being the first thing to reach the other's eyes before Astral could process what happened. Barely letting out a small whimper before noticing the servant kneeling before him. Placing his forehead on the ground as tears came unwisely to his eyes.

—I'm sorry! I'm sorry! Forgive me Your Grace, mercy.... Mercy! —

And that was the last straw for Astral. Now he wanted to beat himself up for being the villain of the day.

That wasn't right at all, so deciding that his operation had failed so miserably, he sighed.

He shook his head softly after he finished putting on his coat himself, nodding at his image in the mirror to the side and then crouched down to his servant's level, only to speak gently to him.

—Easy... It's alright. I'm fine, it's just a scratch... —He said, showing how his arm barely showed a red spot. Showing total disinterest.

—E-Eh? —

The servant could hardly believe what was happening. What's more, he couldn't believe what was happening. So, he did the most logical thing that came to his mind.

To thank him vehemently.

—Thank you! Thank you! My Young Lord, I swear I will never do that stupid thing again! —His head hit the ground before Astral reached in to stop the servant from hurting himself further.

Isn't his reaction excessive? Astral wished to question, but decided that keeping his mouth shut was better.

—I understand, just... Just stop... —Astral asked, shocking the other. Who looked at him like someone coming back from a long journey, crying before smiling.

—My Young Lord Astral... He has returned with us... —

‘What the hell does that mean?’ Astral wanted to ask before deciding not to push his luck.

—Stop the nonsense. Finish helping to fix me up, come on.... —He asked earnestly before the servant changed his stance. Nodding in true spirit before serving his Lord with all his enthusiasm. Now combing the unruly pure white hair in front of him.

Astral sighed, his walk was already beginning to look longer and more tedious than he had ever imagined.

And then, having already groomed himself, he made his way to the dining hall as a new routine.

He was met by the astonished gaze of his parents, who had not eaten until he arrived. Saving a seat to the left side of Eliphas, who simply smiled proudly before gently patting the chair beside him. Inviting his son, who immediately complied. Sitting down at once.

—Good morning, Mother, Father. Haven't you started already? —

—We were waiting for you... —His mother obviously. He shook his head before motioning for the surprised servants to finish serving breakfast at the table. —How was your night? Did you get a good night's rest? —

—Oh, yes, of course. But it's all thanks to the hard work of mother and father... —Astral replied automatically before the servants murmured among themselves, dumbfounded. While his parents rejoiced and shone even brighter than the morning sun.

—We are very happy to hear from you... —Added his father. —In that case, let's start with the meal... —Eliphas granted permission. Cutlery being lifted without delay to eat the food. A smile still lingered on the other's lips.

Astral, for the moment, felt like an animal in a zoo, the attention focused on him as a matter of course, it was obvious. However...

It was suffocating.

And as he was about to start a conversation on any topic, an envelope arrived at just the right moment. As if he knew he needed help.

Ah, at last a ray of light. Astral celebrated momentarily, of course, before listening to that servant.

—My Young Lord Astral. Your fiancé has written for you... —

Astral swore he could feel the guillotine on his neck.

—Thank you... —He thanked the servant without noticing he was out of character, and taking the envelope on the silver tray, he began his silent reading, wrinkling his cold, handsome face to a point where even his parents stopped eating.

Was what I was saying bad?

No. Not at all. But, for Astral, it was like being closer to death. So, announcing its contents, he unwillingly leaned back in his own seat, throwing the thin sheet of paper on the table. Surprising both parents who had grown accustomed to being spectators.

—Honey, are you all right? —His mother questioned. Receiving in return an answer that only unsettled him.

—I'm fine. He's just my fiancé, he said he'd come to see me.... —

And at that, the Encinereb family felt that the end of time was near. That Astral was really something new.

If only he would stay that way until...

Forever.

Astral on the other hand, was oblivious to such thoughts.

***

And finishing that breakfast. The wicked weather proved to be relentless, Astral had no desire to meet his fiancé, but he had no good excuse for not seeing him either, and so, devising with clear desperation and a pair of adorable dark circles under his eyes, a crazy plan emerged. 

What if he showed the world how bad it was? Wasn't that excuse enough to call off the engagement?

Yes. Yes! This was meant to be.

So, with renewed enthusiasm, he quickly set off. Calling for a carriage, he drove to where he knew he could splurge like a spoilt child.

Jewellery.

Many were bought. Technically he would arrive at the first shop to buy all his wares, moving on to the next and the next.

Then came the suits, hardly caring if he wore them or not. Still comparing them wholesale.

The gold slipped into his hands like butter. The luxuries came before he even really enjoyed them, the only thing he wished for was negative points.

Street names came to his mind as if by magic to guide him.

His ‘bad’ intention continuing before stopping once the carriage was filled with overpriced things. The millions having been spent only to return home in the hope of something. A scolding as the best thing for it.

He waited and waited. But his parents barely called and the expression was not exactly what he expected. His father's office serving as a faithful witness to his disappointment.

—My boy, I see you've bought a lot of things? —

Astral perked up.

—I'm sure it's to look nice for your fiancé. —

Astral was discouraged.

—Go ahead, go ahead. Remember that our gold is enough to buy at least two countries or empires.... Kufufu~, you haven't been as dedicated to your fiancé as you are now.... I am proud... —

Astral sighed.

He swears he spend more than fifteen million. Though of course, that was already done by the real Villain.

Then...

Plan B, it emerged. If it wasn't the money, then it would be his attitude.

He punished as he thought possible every servant who came his way, chased them out of their rooms and ignored them with cruel malice aforethought, delaying their work. And perhaps all this would have been all right, had it not been for his mother, who emphasized to him what, strangely enough, he was doing right.

—Ah, my boy has stopped punishing everyone and only chastises them with kind words! It's obvious that you want time for yourself.... Kufufu~ let me support you.... —

Astral was disappointed.

He was no match for the real Villain in evil.

That was harder than he imagined.

He wasn't cut out for the role of Villain!

Good thing he couldn't listen to whispers otherwise. Maybe he would go mad.

‘That was a plan to harm everyone’ was the most common whisper.

Chapter 2