Synopsis and Starting Chapter Chapter 2 - 2 "Prank"
Chapter 3 - 3 Dream
Chapter 4 - 4 Shepherd
Chapter 5 - 5 Card
Chapter 6 - 6 Ruins
Chapter 7 - 7 Naroka
Chapter 8 - 8 Owl
Chapter 9 - 9 Magazine
Chapter 10 - 10 Blood
Chapter 11 - 11 Madame Pualis
Chapter 12 - 12 Undercurrents
Chapter 13 - 13 Attempt
Chapter 14 - 14 Different Monster
Chapter 15 - 15 Getting Information
Chapter 16 - 16 Letter
Chapter 17 - 17 Suspect
Chapter 18 - 18 "Straightforward"
Chapter 19 - 19 Meditation
Chapter 20 - 20 Customs
Chapter 21 - 21 Response
Chapter 22 - 22 Arrangements
Chapter 23 - Chapter 23: Combat Intelligence
Chapter 24 - 24 Gains
Chapter 25 - 25 Sequences And Potions
Chapter 26 - 26 Whistleblowing
Chapter 27 - 27 Five Changes
Chapter 28 - 28 Laws
Chapter 29 - 29 Method
Chapter 30 - 30 Lent Begins
Chapter 31 - 31 Celebration
Chapter 32 - 32 Anomaly
Chapter 33 -
______
Advertisment
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LIST OF LAST 10 CHAPTERS:
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Book Synopsis / Detail / Information:
Sequel to Lord of Mysteries
With the rising tide of steam power and machinery, who can come close to being a Beyonder? Shrouded in the fog of history and darkness, who or what is the lurking evil that murmurs into our ears?
Waking up to be faced with a string of mysteries, Zhou Mingrui finds himself reincarnated as Klein Moretti in an alternate Victorian era world where he sees a world filled with machinery, cannons, dreadnoughts, airships, difference machines, as well as Potions, Divination, Hexes, Tarot Cards, Sealed Artifacts…
The Light continues to shine but mystery has never gone far. Follow Klein as he finds himself entangled with the Churches of the world—both orthodox and unorthodox—while he slowly develops newfound powers thanks to the Beyonder potions.
Like the corresponding tarot card, The Fool, which is numbered 0—a number of unlimited potential—this is the legend of “The Fool.”
*************FULL BOOK START HERE*************
Chapter 1 - 1 Foreigners
1 Foreigners
A price is always exacted for what fate bestows—adapted from Zweig’s Mary Queen of Scots.
“I’m a nobody, with no time to notice the brightness of the sun.
“My parents couldn’t help me, and I wasn’t highly educated. I had no choice but to make it on my own in the city.
“I’d applied to many jobs, but no one ever hired me. Maybe it’s because I’m not good at expressing myself, and I’m not the best communicator. I guess I just haven’t shown enough ability.
“Once, I’d eaten two loaves of bread over a three-day period. Hunger kept me up at night. At least I paid a month’s rent in advance, so I didn’t have to face the cold winter wind outside.
“Finally, I found a job at the hospital’s morgue, keeping vigil over the dead.
“Nighttime in the hospital was colder than I could have ever imagined. The corridor’s wall lights were out, leaving everything shrouded in darkness. I could barely see my feet, and the only light seeping out was from the rooms.
“Mon Dieu, it reeked of something fierce. The smell of death lingered in the air. And from time to time, we had to help move the bodies into the morgue.
“It wasn’t the most glamorous of jobs, but it put bread on the table. Plus, the free time at night allowed me to study. Few people ventured to the morgue, but when they did, they were there delivering bodies or taking them away for cremation. I had to make do without books, as I couldn’t afford them, nor did I see any hope of saving up enough for them.
“But I had to thank my predecessor for leaving so suddenly, as it allowed me to get this job.
“I dreamed of working the day shift. Sleeping during the day and being awake at night made my body weak and my head throb.”
“One day, a new corpse was brought in.
“From what I’d heard, it’s the body of my predecessor who suddenly left.
“I was intrigued by the mysterious disappearance of my predecessor, and as soon as the others left the room, I pulled out the cabinet and quietly opened the body bag.
“He was an old man, with bluish-white skin and wrinkles covering his face. The poor lighting only served to make him look scarier.
“He didn’t have much hair. Most of it was white. He had been stripped of his clothes, not even a piece of cloth was left on him.
“As a dead man without a family, the movers couldn’t resist the opportunity to cash in on the guy.
“I saw a strange mark on his chest. It was bluish-black. I can’t really explain it. The light was too dim at the time.
“I reached out and touched the mark, only to realize there was nothing special about it.
“Looking at my predecessor, I couldn’t help but wonder if I’d end up like him when I grew old…
“I promised his body I’d be with him on his last journey, take him to the crematorium and then to the nearest free cemetery. I couldn’t have the bureaucrats throwing him in the river or some forsaken land like trash.
“I knew I was gonna ‘ave to sacrifice some shut-eye, but Dieu merci it was Sunday the next day. I could catch up on my lost sleep then.
“After saying that, I zipped up the bag and shoved it back in the cabinet.
“The room went darker and the shadows lengthened…
“Since that day, every time I close my eyes, I’m swallowed by a thick fog.
“Something tells me I’m not alone. Something not quite human is coming my way. But nobody will listen. They think I’ve lost my mind in this job; they say I need a doctor…”
A male customer sitting at the bar looked at the narrator who had suddenly stopped and asked, “And?”
The narrator suddenly stopped his tale, causing a male customer at the bar to take notice. This mid-thirties chap sported a drab duffel coat and pale yellow strides. His hair was slicked back, and he had a rough dark bowler hat by his side.
He seemed run-of-the-mill, like the rest of the punters in the alehouse, with dark locks and piercing blue peepers. Not particularly handsome, but not repugnant either. Nothing about him screamed for attention.
The narrator was a strapping lad in his late teens, with long limbs and chiseled features that could make any lass go weak in the knees. His short, jet-black hair and bright, blue eyes only added to his appeal.
The lad looked wistfully at the empty wine glass in front of him and let out a deep sigh.
“And then?
“Then I quit my job and returned to the countryside so that I can tell you this bullshit,” the lad responded with a sly grin spreading across his face.
The male guest was taken aback.
“Were you just pulling our leg?”
“Haha!” Laughter erupted around the bar.
However, the laughter was short-lived as a middle-aged man looked sternly at the slightly embarrassed customer and remarked, “You ain’t from around here, are ya? Lumian spins a different yarn every day. Yesterday, he was a penniless bloke who got dumped by his fiancée, and today, he’s a watchman for the dead!”
“Aye, he talks about spending thirty years east of the Serenzo River and then thirty years to the right of it. He’s full of hot air, that one!” added another regular at the tavern.
All the men were farmers from the village of Cordu, wearing drab-colored tunics.
The black-haired lad, Lumian, leaned forward on the bar counter and rose to his feet. He flashed a cheeky grin and proclaimed, “As you all know, I ain’t the one making this up. My sister pens these tales. She’s a writer for some column known as Novel Weekly or other.”
With that, Lumian turned around, spread his arms wide, and beamed at the foreign customer.
“Looks like she’s crafted quite the tale. I’m sorry you misunderstood.”
The unremarkable man in the brown tweed shirt smiled and stood up.
“What an intriguing story. And how might I address you?”
“Isn’t it common courtesy to introduce oneself before inquiring of others?” Lumian replied, returning the man’s smile.
The foreigner nodded.
“My name is Ryan Koss.
“These are my companions, Valentine and Leah.”
The last sentence referred to the man and woman sitting beside him.
Valentine, a man in his late twenties with powdered blonde hair and piercing blue eyes, wore a white vest, a blue tweed jacket, and black trousers. It was evident that he had put considerable effort into his attire, as if he had been priming himself for a special rendezvous.
He had a rather chilly look on his face, not even sparing a glance for the farmers and herders around him.
Leah, on the other hand, was a striking young woman with long, light gray hair tied into an elaborate bun and a white veil perched atop her head.
Her eyes matched her hair and she regarded Lumian with an open smile, clearly amused by their exchange.
In the glow of the gas lamps inside the tavern, the woman named Leah showed off her sharp nose and stunningly curved lips. She was definitely a stunner in the countryside like Cordu.
She wore a snug white pleated cashmere dress with a small off-white coat and a pair of Marseillan boots. There were two tiny silver bells fastened to her veil and boots. They jingled as she walked into the tavern, drawing the attention of many—especially the men.
In their eyes, this was the kind of fashionable getup you’d only see in the big cities, like the provincial capital of Bigorre or even the capital city of Trier.
Lumian gave a nod of acknowledgement to the three foreigners.
“The name’s Lumian Lee. You may address me as Lumian.”
“Lee?” Leah blurted out.
“What’s the matter? Y’all got a problem with my last name?” Lumian asked with a curious look on his face.
Ryan Koss took it upon himself to explain on Leah’s behalf, “Your last name is downright frightening. I nearly lost control of my voice just now.”
Observing the bewildered expressions of the farmers and herdsmen around him, he continued, “Folks who have crossed paths with sailors and sea merchants are familiar with a saying that’s making the rounds in the Five Seas:
“I’d rather come face to face with pirate Admirals or even kings than run into a bloke named Frank Lee.
“That person’s last name is also Lee.”
“Is he really that scary?” Lumian inquired.
Ryan shook his head in response.
“I’m not exactly sure, but if such a legend exists, then it can’t be far from the truth.”
He switched topics and said to Lumian, “Merci for the story. It merits a drink. What do you desire?”
“A glass of La Fée Verte.” Lumian didn’t beat around the bush and settled back into his seat.
Ryan Koss furrowed his brow.
“‘La Fée Verte’… Absinthe?”
“I must remind you, absinthe is harmful to the human body. Such alcohol can lead to insanity and hallucinations.”
“I didn’t expect the trends of Trier to reach here,” Leah chimed in with a grin.
Lumian acknowledged her comment tersely.
“So the people of Trier also enjoy La Fée Verte…”
“For us, life is already tough enough. No need to fret over a little more harm. This drink can calm our minds.”
“Alright.” Ryan leaned back in his chair and turned to the bartender. “A glass of La Fée Verte and another glass of Cœur Épicé.”
Cœur Épicé was a renowned fruit-based spirit that had been distilled to perfection.
The thin, middle-aged man who had exposed Lumian’s lies piped up. “Give me a glass of La Fée Verte too. After all, I was the one who told the truth just now. I can even tell you the truth about this kid’s situation!” He glared at Lumian, daring him to object. “Foreigner, I can tell you still have your doubts about the authenticity of that story.”
“Pierre, you’d do anything for a free glass of alcohol,” Lumian retorted, scowling.
Before Ryan could even respond, Lumian added, “Why can’t I tell my story and get an extra glass of La Fée Verte?”
“Because no one knows if they should believe you,” Pierre smirked. “Your sister’s favorite story to tell kids is ‘The Boy Who Cried Wolf.’ People who lie all the time lose their credibility eventually.”
Lumian shrugged and watched as the bartender slid a glass of light green alcohol in front of him. “Ça va,” he said, unbothered.
Ryan turned to Lumian.
“Is that all right?”
“Sure thing, as long as your wallet can handle it,” Lumian replied breezily.
“In that case, another glass of La Fée Verte,” Ryan said with a nod.
Pierre’s face lit up with a smile.
“Generous foreigner, you should steer clear of this one,” he said, gesturing to Lumian. “He’s the most mischievous bloke in the whole village.”
“Five years ago, his sister Aurore brought him back to the village,” Pierre continued. “He’s been here ever since. Can you imagine? He was just a wee lad of thirteen at the time. How could he have made the trek to the hospital to become a corpse watchman? The nearest hospital is in Dariège at the foot of the mountain. It would take an entire afternoon to get there by foot.”
“Brought back to the village?” Leah inquired, her voice tinged with suspicion.
She tilted her head, causing her bells to tinkle.
Pierre nodded in confirmation.
“Aurore moved here six years ago. A year later, she went on a journey and brought this lad back with her. Said she found him on the road, a starving, homeless child. She planned to adopt him.”
“Then, he took on Aurore’s last name, Lee. Even his name, Lumian, was given by Aurore.”
“I don’t even remember what my name was before Aurore gave me the name,” Lumian, unfazed by the revelation, flashed a grin and took a sip of absinthe.
It was clear that his past did not bother him in the slightest.
______
Advertisment
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Chapter 34 - 34 Sayings
Chapter 35 - 35 Differences
Chapter 36 - 36 Meeting Again
Chapter 37 - 37 "Dangerous Forest"
Chapter 38 - 38 Sheep
Chapter 39 - 39 Sick
Chapter 40 - 40 On The Carriage
Chapter 41 - 41 Undead
Chapter 42 - 42 Madame Night
Chapter 43 - 43 Frank
Chapter 44 - 44 Eavesdropping
Chapter 45 - Make-Up Lesson
Chapter 46 - 46 Ritualistic Magic
Chapter 47 - 47 Truly "Illiterate"
Chapter 48 - 48 Knowledge Pursuer
Chapter 49 - 49 True Cogitation
Chapter 50 - 50 Observation
Chapter 51 - 51 Temporal Node
Chapter 52 - 52 Entering The Ruins
Chapter 53 - 53 Mark
Chapter 54 - 54 Interpretation
Chapter 55 - 55 Persona
Chapter 56 - 56 Intuition
Chapter 57 - 57 Arrangements
Chapter 58 - 58 Cherishing Talent
Chapter 59 - 59 Again
Chapter 60 - 60 "Dancer"
Chapter 61 - 61 Description
Chapter 62 - 62 Date
Chapter 63 - 63 Shocking News
Chapter 64 - 64 Weapon
Chapter 65 - 65 Third Floor
Chapter 66 - 66 Crib
Chapter 67 - 67 Evil Spells
Chapter 68 - 68 Purification
Chapter 69 - 69 Him?
Chapter 70 - 70 Spirit Channeling
Chapter 71 - 71 Underground
Chapter 72 - 72 Sacrificial Dance
Chapter 73 - 73 Tracking
Chapter 74 - 74 Mute
Chapter 75 - 75 Meeting Madame Pualis Again
Chapter 76 - 76 Physical Examination
Chapter 77 - 77 Changes
Chapter 78 - 78 Traces
Chapter 79 - 79 Sufferer
Chapter 80 - 80 Joint Investigation Team
Chapter 81 - 81 Key
Chapter 82 - 82 Dream Divination
Chapter 83 - 83 A Sudden Encounter
Chapter 84 - 84 Dirk
Chapter 85 - 85 Appropriating
Chapter 86 - 86 Another Idea
Chapter 87 - 87 Catharsis
Chapter 88 - 88 Eq
Chapter 89 - 89 Nothing Happened
Chapter 90 - 90 Trying Again
Chapter 91 - 91 Scheming
Chapter 92 - 92 Stripping Fate
Chapter 93 - 93 An Early Sacrifice
Chapter 94 - 94 Attack
Chapter 95 - 95 An "Out In The Open" Ambush
Chapter 96 - 96 Prey And Hunter
Chapter 97 - 97 Courage
Chapter 98 - 98 After The Celebration
Chapter 99 - 99 Guest
Chapter 100 - 100 Hesitation
Chapter 101 - 101 Different Powers
Chapter 102 - 102 Transfer
Chapter 103 - 103 The Padre'S Plan
Chapter 104 - 104 Resolute Decision
Chapter 105 - 105 That Person
Chapter 106 - 106 The Ritual Begins
Chapter 107 - 107 Shattering
Chapter 108 - 108 Report
Chapter 109 - 109 Minute Hope
Chapter 110 - 110 Foreigner
Chapter 111 - 111 Messenger
Chapter 112 - 112 Charlie
Chapter 113 - 113 Tenants
Chapter 114 - 114 Life Experience
Chapter 115 - Chapter 115 Legend
Chapter 116 - Chapter 116 City Of Fashion
Chapter 117 - Chapter 117 Remuneration
Chapter 118 - Chapter 118 Summoning
Chapter 119 - Chapter 119 Strange Creature
Chapter 120 - Chapter 120 Lunatic’S Ravings
Chapter 121 - Chapter 121 Salle De Bal Brise
Chapter 122 - Chapter 122 Each With Their Own Plans
Chapter 123 - Chapter 123 Organizer
Chapter 124 - Chapter 124 Method Of Self-Protection
Chapter 125 - Chapter 125 Struggle
Chapter 126 - Chapter 126 Finding Prey
Chapter 127 - Chapter 127 Café
Chapter 128 - Chapter 128 In The Dream
Chapter 129 - Chapter 129 Neighbor
Chapter 130 - Chapter 130 Tracking
Chapter 131 - Chapter 131 Night Fight
Chapter 132 - Chapter 132 Black Scorpion
Chapter 133 - Chapter 133 Suffering
Chapter 134 - Chapter 134 Courtesan
Chapter 135 - 135 Confirming The Situation
Chapter 136 - 136 Initial Summoning Attempt
Chapter 137 - 137 Hooha
Chapter 138 - 138 Letter
Chapter 139 - 139 Mr. K
Chapter 140 - 140 Painting
Chapter 141 - 141 "Hostage"
Chapter 142 - 142 Mother Tree
Chapter 143 - 143 Lie
Chapter 144 - 144 Conditions
Chapter 145 - 145 Service Fee
Chapter 146 - 146 Turf
Chapter 147 - 147 Reaction
Chapter 148 - 148 "Lord Of The Motel"
Chapter 149 - 149 Five Ritualistic Spells
Chapter 150 - 150 Voice
Chapter 151 - 151 Temptation
Chapter 152 - 152 “Entrustment”
Chapter 153 - 153 Strange Rule
Chapter 154 - 154 Mini-Theater
Chapter 155 - 155 Jenna
Chapter 156 - 156 Landlord
Chapter 157 - 157 Ancienne Cage À Pigeons
Chapter 158 - 158 "Report"
Chapter 159 - 159 Savage
Chapter 160 - 160 Pervert
Chapter 161 - 161 Special Traits
Chapter 162 - 162 Fresh Corpse
Chapter 163 - 163 Three Questions
Chapter 164 - 164 Intelligence
Chapter 165 - 165 Meeting Jenna Again
Chapter 166 - 166 In Return
Chapter 167 - 167 Convergence
Chapter 168 - 168 Prayer Target
Chapter 169 - 169 Battle In The Room
Chapter 170 - 170 Nightstalkers
Chapter 171 - 171 Rapid Idea
Chapter 172 - 172 Superintendent
Chapter 173 - 173 Intelligence On The Boss
Chapter 174 - 174 Reward
Chapter 175 - 175 Hidden Blade
Chapter 176 - 176 Property
Chapter 177 - 177 Proselytizing
Chapter 178 - 178 The Messenger'S Response
Chapter 179 - 179 Feast
Chapter 180 - 180 Lazy
Chapter 181 - 181 The Loyal Ciel
Chapter 182 - 182 Truth Serum
Chapter 183 - 183 Three Items
Chapter 184 - 184 Painting
Chapter 185 - 185 Missing Goods
Chapter 186 - 186 Strange Footprints
Chapter 187 - 187 Shadow
Chapter 188 - 188 Confidence
Chapter 189 - 189 Cooperation
Chapter 190 - 190 Unexpected Development
Chapter 191 - 191 Suspicions
Chapter 192 - 192 Verification
Chapter 193 - 193 Luck Enhancement
Chapter 194 - 194 Triggered
Chapter 195 - 195 Candidate
Chapter 196 - 196 Elimination
Chapter 197 - 197 Helper
Chapter 198 - 198 Conciliation
Chapter 199 - 199 "Unruly"
Chapter 200 - 200 Spectator
Chapter 201 - 201 Recalling
Chapter 202 - 202 Analysis
Chapter 203 - 203 Cooperation
Chapter 204 - 204 Interrogation
Chapter 205 - 205 Banshee
Chapter 206 - 206 Communication
Chapter 207 - 207 Organization
Chapter 208 - 208 Countermeasure
Chapter 209 - 209 Bad Luck
Chapter 210 - 210 Performance
Chapter 211 - 211 Spirit Channeling
Chapter 212 - 212 Actor
Chapter 213 - 213 Correct Interpretation
Chapter 214 - 214 Encounter
Chapter 215 - 215 Jenna'S Worry
Chapter 216 - 216 Acting Guidance
Chapter 217 - 217 Notarization
Chapter 218 - 218 Promise
Chapter 219 - 219 Probing
Chapter 220 - 220 Nightmare
Chapter 221 - 221 Venting
Chapter 222 - 222 Fliers
Chapter 223 - 223 Choice
Chapter 224 - 224 Disguise
Chapter 225 - 225 Exposed
Chapter 226 - 226 Sculpture
Chapter 227 - 227 Agent
Chapter 228 - 228 Sudden Digestion
Chapter 229 - 229 Equivalent Exchange
Chapter 230 - 230 Scapegoat
Chapter 231 - 231 Mr. K'S Purpose
Chapter 232 - 232 Financing Of Activities
Chapter 233 - 233 Advance Payment
Chapter 234 - 234 Sincerity
Chapter 235 - 235 "Disease"
Chapter 236 - 236 Morning Light
Chapter 237 - 237 Concealment
Chapter 238 - 238 Endure
Chapter 239 - 239 Fighting Fire
Chapter 240 - 240 Bewitchment
Chapter 241 - 241 Indomitable Spirit
Chapter 242 - 242 Pyromaniac
Chapter 243 - 243 Visit
Chapter 244 - 244 Red And Black
Chapter 245 - 245 "Speech"
Chapter 246 - 246 Resolution
Chapter 247 - 247 Instigation
Chapter 248 - 248 Visitors
Chapter 249 - 249 Loophole In The Contract
Chapter 250 - 250 Condolence Banquet
Chapter 251 - 251 Giant Tree
Chapter 252 - 252 Ancient Times
Chapter 253 - 253 Root Of The Problem
Chapter 254 - 254 The Weight Of History
Chapter 255 - 255 Bridge Of Communication
Chapter 256 - 256 Crack
Chapter 257 - 257 The Unfortunate
Chapter 258 - 258 Assassin
Chapter 259 - 259 Awe
Chapter 260 - 260 Cracking
Chapter 261 - 261 Escape
Chapter 262 - 262 Review
Chapter 263 - 263 Choice
Chapter 264 - 264 Secret Organization
Chapter 265 - 265 The Major Arcana Cards
Chapter 266 - 266 Catacombs
Chapter 267 - 267 Remains
Chapter 268 - 268 Possible Encounters
Chapter 269 - 269 Islander
Chapter 270 - 270 Agreement
Chapter 271 - 271 Acting
Chapter 272 - 272 Charismatic Artist
Chapter 273 - 273 Trader
Chapter 274 - 274 Escape
Chapter 275 - 275 Poaching
Chapter 276 - 276 The Disappointed Susie
Chapter 277 - 277 Guidance
Chapter 278 - 278 Consultation
Chapter 279 - 279 Deep Valley Cloister
Chapter 280 - 280 The Knocker
Chapter 281 - 281 Reflection
Chapter 282 - 282 Treacherous
Chapter 283 - 283 Idea
Chapter 284 - 284 Entering The Order
Chapter 285 - 285 Maxim
Chapter 286 - 286 Magic Mirror Divination
Chapter 287 - 287 Key
Chapter 288 - 288 Self-Recommendation
Chapter 289 - 289 Late Night Visitors
Chapter 290 - 290 Lavigny Docks
Chapter 291 - 291 Important Figure
Chapter 292 - 292 Communion
Chapter 293 - 293 "Pious"
Chapter 294 - 294 Beyonder
Chapter 295 - 295 Brains Are Important
Chapter 296 - 296 Request
Chapter 297 - 297 Informant Contract
Chapter 298 - 298 Rose School Of Thought
Chapter 299 - 299 Interpretation
Chapter 300 - 300 Another Symbol
Chapter 301 - 301 Devil
Chapter 302 - 302 Mummy Ashes
Chapter 303 - 303 Sparks Of "Fire"
Chapter 304 - 304 Decency
Chapter 305 - 305 Test
Chapter 306 - 306 Ambivalence
Chapter 307 - 307 Instigation
Chapter 308 - 308 Incomprehensible Choice
Chapter 309 - 309 Restoring Confidence
Chapter 310 - 310 Encounter
Chapter 311 - 311 Strange Boy
Chapter 312 - 312 Hint
Chapter 313 - 313 Plans With Different Styles
Chapter 314 - 314 Crowd-Sourcing
Chapter 315 - 315 Anxious Termiboros
Chapter 316 - 316 "Invitation Letter"
Chapter 317 - 317 Summoning Target
Chapter 318 - 318 Price
Chapter 319 - 319 "Travel"
Chapter 320 - 320 Mummy
Chapter 321 - 321 Compensation
Chapter 322 - 322 Pleasure
Chapter 323 - 323 Psychological Profile
Chapter 324 - 324 Which Is True And Which Is False
Chapter 325 - 325 Visit
Chapter 326 - 326 Substitute
Chapter 327 - 327 The Real Guillaume Bénet
Chapter 328 - 328 Bottle Of Fiction
Chapter 329 - 329 Metallic Creature
Chapter 330 - 330 Forewarned Is Forearmed
Chapter 331 - 331 Spirit Channeling
Chapter 332 - 332 Sinners
Chapter 333 - 333 Gains
Chapter 334 - 334 Clues
Chapter 335 - 335 Another World
Chapter 336 - 336 Armored Shadow'S Origins
Chapter 337 - 337 Magician'S Speculation
Chapter 338 - 338 Hela
Chapter 339 - 339 Purpose Of Visit
Chapter 340 - 340 Black Cat
Chapter 341 - 341 Branch
Chapter 342 - 342 Fright?
Chapter 343 - 343 Feedback
Chapter 344 - 344 Boxing Gloves
Chapter 345 - 345 Dream
Chapter 346 - 346 Follow-Up Visit
Chapter 347 - 347 Strange Theft
Chapter 348 - 348 The Bustling Underground
Chapter 349 - 349 Sacrificial Square
Chapter 350 - 350 Negative Effects
Chapter 351 - 351 Killing Intent
Chapter 352 - 352 Spring Source
Chapter 353 - 353 Crazy Figure
Chapter 354 - 354 Palm
Chapter 355 - 355 The Real Spring Water
Chapter 356 - 356 Scar
Chapter 357 - 357 Monette'S True Identity
Chapter 358 - 358 Negligence
Chapter 359 - 359 Malady God
Chapter 360 - 360 Physical And Mental Wellbeing
Chapter 361 - 361 Farewell
Chapter 362 - 362 Lie
Chapter 363 - 363 Studying Leads To Improvement
Chapter 364 - 364 Red House
Chapter 365 - 365 Observation
Chapter 366 - 366 Demoness Sect
Chapter 367 - 367 Salon
Chapter 368 - 368 Speculator
Chapter 369 - 369 King? No, Emperor!
Chapter 370 - 370 Sending Off
Chapter 371 - 371 Wax Statue
Chapter 372 - 372 Primary Mission
Chapter 373 - 373 Summoning The Armored Shadow Again
Chapter 374 - 374 Preliminary Speculation
Chapter 375 - 375 Gathering Venue
Chapter 376 - 376 Different Teams
Chapter 377 - 377 An Earlier Transmigrator
Chapter 378 - 378 Investigation
Chapter 379 - 379 Bold Speculation
Chapter 380 - 380 Bell Chimes
Chapter 381 - 381 Elimination
Chapter 382 - 382 Seizing The Opportunity
Chapter 383 - 383 "Forced Storming"
Chapter 384 - 384 Stagnation
Chapter 385 - 385 Before And After Comparison
Chapter 386 - 386 Caution
Chapter 387 - 387 Vile
Chapter 388 - 388 An Unquiet Night
Chapter 389 - 389 Suspected God
Chapter 390 - 390 Hidden Danger
Chapter 391 - 391 Idiots
Chapter 392 - 392 Switching Pathways
Chapter 393 - 393 Information About Celestial Worthy
Chapter 394 - 394 Eye Of The Storm
Chapter 395 - 395 Progress On The Other Side
Chapter 396 - 396 Pure Evil
Chapter 397 - 397 Execution Ground
Chapter 398 - 398 Human Blood Bread
Chapter 399 - 399 Mandrake
Chapter 400 - 400 Transferring Burdens
Chapter 401 - 401 Dreamwalker
Chapter 402 - 402 Good Luck
Chapter 403 - 403 Drawing From Experience
Chapter 404 - 404 Patient
Chapter 405 - 405 No Reservations
Chapter 406 - 406 Inevitability-Like Ending
Chapter 407 - 407 Reward For Good Luck
Chapter 408 - 408 Motive
Chapter 409 - 409 Fire Execution
Chapter 410 - 410 A Leisure Week
Chapter 411 - 411 Review Committee
Chapter 412 - 412 Purge
Chapter 413 - 413 Cave Association
Chapter 414 - 414 Reason
Chapter 415 - 415 The Sinner Complains First
Chapter 416 - 416 Suspect
Chapter 417 - 417 The Importance Of Intel
Chapter 418 - 418 Beatrice
Chapter 419 - 419 New Priestess
Chapter 420 - 420 Beyonder Item
Chapter 421 - 421 Abnormal Silence
Chapter 422 - 422 Formula
Chapter 423 - 423 Unexpected Encounter
Chapter 424 - 424 Underground Maze
Chapter 425 - 425 The Living
Chapter 426 - 426 "Curse"
Chapter 427 - 427 Hunters' Cooperation
Chapter 428 - 428 Incineration
Chapter 429 - 429 Orders
Chapter 430 - 430 "Reckless"
Chapter 431 - 431 Three Hunters, One Stage
Chapter 432 - 432 Beatdown
Chapter 433 - 433 Secret Past
Chapter 434 - 434 Utilizing The Special Environment
Chapter 435 - 435 An Early Acting Principle
Chapter 436 - 436 Open And Inclusive Faith
Chapter 437 - 437 Cashing Out
Chapter 438 - 438 Ghost Ship
Chapter 439 - 439 Three Questions
Chapter 440 - 440 Illusory Sigh
Chapter 441 - 441 Demoness Cooperation
Chapter 442 - 442 Opportunity To Act
Chapter 443 - 443 Trap Within A Trap
Chapter 444 - 444 The Sinners' Leader
Chapter 445 - 445 Spoils Of War
Chapter 446 - 446 Prophecy
Chapter 447 - 447 Association And Speculation
Chapter 448 - 448 The Power Of Painting
Chapter 449 - Chapter 449 Tracking Clues
Chapter 450 - Chapter 450 Infiltrating Openly
Chapter 451 - Chapter 451 Fate'S Prank
Chapter 452 - Chapter 452 Manuscript
Chapter 453 - Chapter 453 Missing Author
Chapter 454 - Chapter 454 Hidden Honorific Name
Chapter 455 - Chapter 455 Two Children
Chapter 456 - Chapter 456 The Charlatan'S Instructions
Chapter 457 - Chapter 457 Unexpected Target
Chapter 458 - Chapter 458 Same Direction
Chapter 459 - Chapter 459 Price Of Bestowment
Chapter 460 - Chapter 460 Chain Reaction
Chapter 461 - Chapter 461 Strange World
Chapter 462 - Chapter 462 Critical Interference
Chapter 463 - Chapter 463 Noncorresponding Details
Chapter 464 - Chapter 464 A World In A Painting?
Chapter 465 - Chapter 465 Circle
Chapter 466 - Chapter 466 Encounter
Chapter 467 - Chapter 467 Old Bones
Chapter 468 - Chapter 468 Q&A Game
Chapter 469 - Chapter 469 "Reinforcements"
Chapter 470 - Chapter 470 Three Heads, Six Arms
Chapter 471 - Chapter 471 Topsy-Turvy
Chapter 472 - Chapter 472 Weather
Chapter 473 - Chapter 473 Weakening Of Corruption
Chapter 474 - Justice, Adorned In A Simple Yet Elegant Dress, Turned Her Head To Glance At Magician, Discerning Her Thoughts.
Chapter 475 - 475 Conspirer
Chapter 476 - 476 Calamity Giant
Chapter 477 - 477 Frenzy
Chapter 478 - 478 The Mockery Of Fate
Chapter 479 - Chapter 479 Matching Items
Chapter 480 - Chapter 480 Ascetic
Chapter 481 - Chapter 481 The Thing In The Suitcase
Chapter 482 - 482 Bodies Chasing Heads
Chapter 483 - 483 Hidden History
Chapter 484 - 484 Mockery
Chapter 485 - 485 Night Pillar
Chapter 486 - 486 The Mirror People'S Conspiracy
Chapter 487 - 487 Self-Confrontation
Chapter 488 - 488 Mutual Provocation
Chapter 489 - 489 Greed
Chapter 490 - 490 Sounds
Chapter 491 - 491 Unexpected "Helper"
Chapter 492 - 492 Pride
Chapter 493 - 493 Crimson Hell
Chapter 494 - 494 "Stolen" Information
Chapter 495 - 495 Distribution
Chapter 496 - 496 Sin
Chapter 497 - 497 The Fragment'S Origins
Chapter 498 - 498 Suspicious Attitude
Chapter 499 - 499 Minor Arcana Card
Chapter 500 - 500 "Nonexistent" City
Chapter 501 - 501 Honorific Name
Chapter 502 - 502 Messenger Ritual
Chapter 503 - 503 Penitent
Chapter 504 - 504 "Breakup"
Chapter 505 - 505 Departure
Chapter 506 - 506 Illness
Chapter 507 - 507 Dead End
Chapter 508 - 508 Patient Zero
Chapter 509 - 509 Ironclad Merchant Ship
Chapter 510 - 510 First Day At Sea
Chapter 511 - 511 Warning
Chapter 512 - 512 Strange Pirate Ship
Chapter 513 - 513 Worry
Chapter 514 - 514 Huge Wave
Chapter 515 - 515 Strange Fish
Chapter 516 - 516 Questioning Method
Chapter 517 - 517 Prominent Merchant
Chapter 518 - 518 Merchant'S Entrustment
Chapter 519 - 519 One Event A Day
Chapter 520 - 520 Demon Warlock
Chapter 521 - 521 Guidance Of Fate?
Chapter 522 - 522 Excellent Scheme
Chapter 523 - 523 Eye Of Illusory
Chapter 524 - 524 Infighting
Chapter 525 - 525 Repair Fee
Chapter 526 - 526 Resolution
Chapter 527 - 527 Immersion
Chapter 528 - 528 Treasure Legend
Chapter 529 - 529 Irrational
Chapter 530 - 530 Beginning
Chapter 531 - 531 Depths Of Death
Chapter 532 - 532 "Real" Map
Chapter 533 - 533 Forgotten
Chapter 534 - 534 Over The Mountain
Chapter 535 - 535 Reply
Chapter 536 - 536 One In The Light And One In The Dark
Chapter 537 - 537 Charm
Chapter 538 - 538 Historical Origins
Chapter 539 - 539 Information On The Sea Prayer Ritual
Chapter 540 - 540 Entrustee
Chapter 541 - 541 Simple Entrustment
Chapter 542 - 542 Abnormal Situation
Chapter 543 - 543 Same Dream
Chapter 544 - 544 Threat
Chapter 545 - 545 Order
Chapter 546 - 546 Monitor
Chapter 547 - 547 Source Of Familiarity
Chapter 548 - 548 Governor Of The Sea
Chapter 549 - 549 True Purpose
Chapter 550 - 550 Effects Of The Sea Prayer Ritual
Chapter 551 - 551 Coming One After Another
Chapter 552 - 552 Fake And Reality
Chapter 553 - 553 Half-Fairy
Chapter 554 - 554 Favor
Chapter 555 - 555 Monster Illustrated
Chapter 556 - 556 Violent Beating
Chapter 557 - 557 Purpose
Chapter 558 - 558 Tamara Family
Chapter 559 - 559 Top-Notch Collaborator
Chapter 560 - 560 Traces
Chapter 561 - 561 Language Of The Stars
Chapter 562 - 562 Changed Plans
Chapter 563 - 563 Another Attempt
Chapter 564 - 564 Individual Roles
Chapter 565 - 565 Possible Breakthrough
Chapter 566 - 566 Gathered Clues
Chapter 567 - 567 Possible Leaker
Chapter 568 - 568 Patterns Of The "Ancestors"
Chapter 569 - 569 Language Interpretation
Chapter 570 - 570 Festival
Chapter 571 - 571 Key Details
Chapter 572 - 572 The Real Target
Chapter 573 - 573 Bard
Chapter 574 - 574 Heavy
Chapter 575 - 575 "Handover"
Chapter 576 - 576 Palace
Chapter 577 - 577 Same Thoughts
Chapter 578 - 578 Marionettes
Chapter 579 - 579 Energy Passage
Chapter 580 - 581 Gap
Chapter 581 - 581 Gap
Chapter 582 - 582 Efficient Person-Locator
Chapter 583 - 583 Celestial Worthy'S Revelation
Chapter 584 - 584 "Helper"
Chapter 585 - 585 Repeated "Betrayal"
Chapter 586 - 586 Gnawing
Chapter 587 - 587 "Deceived"
Chapter 588 - 588 Degree Of Madness
Chapter 589 - 589 Object Within The Nest
Chapter 590 - 590 The Truth Behind The Seal
Chapter 591 - 591 Information Gap
Chapter 592 - 592 Bluff
Chapter 593 - 593 Fooled
Chapter 594 - 594 Execution
Chapter 595 - 595 Spoils Of War
Chapter 596 - 596 Lord'S Revelation?
Chapter 597 - 597 Too Dirty
Chapter 598 - 598 Confrontation And Reconciliation
Chapter 599 - 599 If You Have "Power," Use It
Chapter 600 - 600 Correct Reaction
Chapter 601 - 601 Strange Patient
Chapter 602 - 602 "Surgery"
Chapter 603 - 603 Organs Again
Chapter 604 - 604 School Of God'S Descent
Chapter 605 - 605 Lingering Effects
Chapter 606 - 606 Faith Conversion
Chapter 607 - 607 Smell Of Food
Chapter 608 - 608 The Way To Find Prey
Chapter 609 - 609 Useful Armor
Chapter 610 - 610 "New Life"
Chapter 611 - 611 True Name
Chapter 612 - 612 Daybreak
Chapter 613 - 613 New Commission
Chapter 614 - 614 Under-The-Table Transaction
Chapter 615 - 615 Descendants
Chapter 616 - 616 "Love"
Chapter 617 - 617 Transaction
Chapter 618 - 618 Divination Ritual
Chapter 619 - 619 Chronicles
Chapter 620 - 620 Abnormality In The Abyss
Chapter 621 - 621 Hanth Island
Chapter 622 - 622 Smell Of Death
Chapter 623 - 623 Grave Digging
Chapter 624 - 624 More Than One?
Chapter 625 - 625 Repentance
Chapter 626 - 626 Blatant Malice
Chapter 627 - 627 Treatment Plan?
Chapter 628 - 628 Terrifying Dream
Chapter 629 - 629 Corruption Removal
Chapter 630 - 630 Day Tour
Chapter 631 - 631 Devilogy
Chapter 632 - 632 Conspiracy
Chapter 633 - 633 West Balam
Chapter 634 - 634 Fresh Off The Boat
Chapter 635 - 635 Man-Eating Flower
Chapter 636 - 636 Catharsis
Chapter 637 - 637 Unexpected Information
Chapter 638 - 638 Possible Enemy
Chapter 639 - 639 Bribe
Chapter 640 - 640 Commonality
Chapter 641 - 641 Information From Eating
Chapter 642 - 642 Visit
Chapter 643 - 643 Target Suspect
Chapter 644 - 644 Patrol Team
Chapter 645 - 645 "Gifts"
Chapter 646 - 646 Indoor Fight
Chapter 647 - 647 "Inexplicable Action"
Chapter 648 - 648 Teamwork
Chapter 649 - 649 Conspiracy Showcase
Chapter 650 - 650 Reaper
Chapter 651 - 651 An Unfulfilled Conspiracy
Chapter 652 - 652 "Extreme Joy Begets Sorrow"
Chapter 653 - 653 Lumian'S Choice
Chapter 654 - 654 Bounty
Chapter 655 - 655 Pleasure
Chapter 656 - 656 Choosing A Reward
Chapter 657 - 657 Tizamo Town
Chapter 658 - 658 Deep Desire
Chapter 659 - 659 Poor "Monster"
Chapter 660 - 660 Across The Door
Chapter 661 - 661 "Reconnaissance Tools"
Chapter 662 - 662 Those Words
Chapter 663 - 663 Late Night
Chapter 664 - 664 Confirming The Boundary
Chapter 665 - 665 Clues
Chapter 666 - 666 New Information
Chapter 667 - 667 Approaching Gentleness
Chapter 668 - 668 Dream Person?
Chapter 669 - Chapter 669: Connivance
Chapter 670 - Chapter 670: Sudden Arrival
Chapter 671 - Chapter 671: Beginning
Chapter 672 - Chapter 672: Greater Trouble
Chapter 673 - Chapter 673: “Sealing” Spell
Chapter 674 - Chapter 674: Manor
Chapter 675 - 675 Evil
Chapter 676 - Chapter 676: You Intisians
Chapter 677 - 677 Last Year'S Dream Festival
Chapter 678 - Chapter 678: Absurd Orgy
Chapter 679 - 679 Spirit Medium
Chapter 680 - 680 Combat Experience
Chapter 681 - Chapter 681 Tomb
Chapter 682 - Chapter 682 Cull
Chapter 683 - 683 Dance
Chapter 684 - 684 Two Answers
Chapter 685 - 685 Illusion
Chapter 686 - 686 Illusion And Reality
Chapter 687 - 687 Gaining Immortality
Chapter 688 - Chapter 688: Preparations
Chapter 689 - 689 Precision
Chapter 690 - 690 Death'S Symphony
Chapter 691 - 691 Pursuer
Chapter 692 - 692 Death Before Rebirth
Chapter 693 - 693 Golden Corpse
Chapter 694 - 694 A "Deal"
Chapter 695 - 695 Kolobo'S Worry
Chapter 696 - Chapter 696: Feathers
Chapter 697 - 697 Madam Magician'S Explanation
Chapter 698 - 698 Aftermath
Chapter 699 - 699 Who Is To Blame?
Chapter 700 - 700 Return
Chapter 701 - 701 The Cheerful Franca
Chapter 702 - 702 Fate Appropriator
Chapter 703 - Chapter 703: Fused Ability
Chapter 704 - 704 Fragment Of Fate
Chapter 705 - 705 Past
Chapter 706 - Chapter 706: The Utility Of Delicacies
Chapter 707 - 707 Compulsion
Chapter 708 - 708 Remnant Influence
Chapter 709 - 709 "Chef"
Chapter 710 - 710 "Communication"
Chapter 711 - 711 Choice
Chapter 712 - 712 "Accusation"
Chapter 713 - Chapter 713: Between White And Black
Chapter 714 - Chapter 714: The Fractured Tamara Family
Chapter 715 - 715 Shadow Merchant
Chapter 716 - 716 Bullets
Chapter 717 - 717 Supervision?
Chapter 718 - 718 Another Warning
Chapter 719 - 719 Advancing
Chapter 720 - 720 Unexpected "Helper"
Chapter 721 - 721 Exhausting The Substitutes
Chapter 722 - 722 He Knows
Chapter 723 - 723 Secret Of Immortality
Chapter 724 - 724 Leader
Chapter 725 - 725 The Mirror World'S Third Level
Chapter 726 - 726 Fragment Of Fate
Chapter 727 - 727 Arrival
Chapter 728 - 728 Tracking
Chapter 729 - 729 Purpose
Chapter 730 - 730 Struggle
Chapter 731 - 731 Another Good Job
Chapter 732 - Perle Swiftly Focused And Took Her Overseer Position, Carefully Observing The Different Sections Of The Quarry Cave.
Chapter 733 - 733 Praise You
Chapter 734 - 734 My Weapon
Chapter 735 - 735 I Have Sinned
Chapter 736 - 736 Night
Chapter 737 - 737 Opinion
Chapter 738 - 738 Original Arrangement
Chapter 739 - 739 Reminder
Chapter 740 - Chapter 740: Depriver
Chapter 741 - 741 “Appraisal”
Chapter 742 - 742 Rewards
Chapter 743 - 743 Exploration
Chapter 744 - 744 Approach
Chapter 745 - 745 Three Items
Chapter 746 - 746 Corpse Wax Candle
Chapter 747 - 747 Pact Experience
Chapter 748 - 748 Despair Ritual
Chapter 749 - 749 Conjugate Captain And Members
Chapter 750 - 750 Source Of Life
Chapter 751 - 751 "Help"
Chapter 752 - 752 In The Darkness
Chapter 753 - 753 Rational Franca
Chapter 754 - 754 Two Spirits
Chapter 755 - 755 Different Attitudes
Chapter 756 - 756 "Farm" Team
Chapter 757 - 757 Harvest Priest
Categories Genre: All, Fantasy, Ongoing Status: Ongoing ______
Total Chapters in book: 757
Estimated words: 1480854 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 7404(@200wpm)___ 5923(@250wpm)___ 4936(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 1480854 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 7404(@200wpm)___ 5923(@250wpm)___ 4936(@300wpm)
______
LIST OF LAST 10 CHAPTERS:
Page No. 757 Page No. 756 Page No. 755 Page No. 754 Page No. 753 Page No. 752 Page No. 751 Page No. 750 Page No. 749 Page No. 748 Page No. 747
Book Synopsis / Detail / Information:
Sequel to Lord of Mysteries
With the rising tide of steam power and machinery, who can come close to being a Beyonder? Shrouded in the fog of history and darkness, who or what is the lurking evil that murmurs into our ears?
Waking up to be faced with a string of mysteries, Zhou Mingrui finds himself reincarnated as Klein Moretti in an alternate Victorian era world where he sees a world filled with machinery, cannons, dreadnoughts, airships, difference machines, as well as Potions, Divination, Hexes, Tarot Cards, Sealed Artifacts…
The Light continues to shine but mystery has never gone far. Follow Klein as he finds himself entangled with the Churches of the world—both orthodox and unorthodox—while he slowly develops newfound powers thanks to the Beyonder potions.
Like the corresponding tarot card, The Fool, which is numbered 0—a number of unlimited potential—this is the legend of “The Fool.”
*************FULL BOOK START HERE*************
Chapter 1 - 1 Foreigners
1 Foreigners
A price is always exacted for what fate bestows—adapted from Zweig’s Mary Queen of Scots.
“I’m a nobody, with no time to notice the brightness of the sun.
“My parents couldn’t help me, and I wasn’t highly educated. I had no choice but to make it on my own in the city.
“I’d applied to many jobs, but no one ever hired me. Maybe it’s because I’m not good at expressing myself, and I’m not the best communicator. I guess I just haven’t shown enough ability.
“Once, I’d eaten two loaves of bread over a three-day period. Hunger kept me up at night. At least I paid a month’s rent in advance, so I didn’t have to face the cold winter wind outside.
“Finally, I found a job at the hospital’s morgue, keeping vigil over the dead.
“Nighttime in the hospital was colder than I could have ever imagined. The corridor’s wall lights were out, leaving everything shrouded in darkness. I could barely see my feet, and the only light seeping out was from the rooms.
“Mon Dieu, it reeked of something fierce. The smell of death lingered in the air. And from time to time, we had to help move the bodies into the morgue.
“It wasn’t the most glamorous of jobs, but it put bread on the table. Plus, the free time at night allowed me to study. Few people ventured to the morgue, but when they did, they were there delivering bodies or taking them away for cremation. I had to make do without books, as I couldn’t afford them, nor did I see any hope of saving up enough for them.
“But I had to thank my predecessor for leaving so suddenly, as it allowed me to get this job.
“I dreamed of working the day shift. Sleeping during the day and being awake at night made my body weak and my head throb.”
“One day, a new corpse was brought in.
“From what I’d heard, it’s the body of my predecessor who suddenly left.
“I was intrigued by the mysterious disappearance of my predecessor, and as soon as the others left the room, I pulled out the cabinet and quietly opened the body bag.
“He was an old man, with bluish-white skin and wrinkles covering his face. The poor lighting only served to make him look scarier.
“He didn’t have much hair. Most of it was white. He had been stripped of his clothes, not even a piece of cloth was left on him.
“As a dead man without a family, the movers couldn’t resist the opportunity to cash in on the guy.
“I saw a strange mark on his chest. It was bluish-black. I can’t really explain it. The light was too dim at the time.
“I reached out and touched the mark, only to realize there was nothing special about it.
“Looking at my predecessor, I couldn’t help but wonder if I’d end up like him when I grew old…
“I promised his body I’d be with him on his last journey, take him to the crematorium and then to the nearest free cemetery. I couldn’t have the bureaucrats throwing him in the river or some forsaken land like trash.
“I knew I was gonna ‘ave to sacrifice some shut-eye, but Dieu merci it was Sunday the next day. I could catch up on my lost sleep then.
“After saying that, I zipped up the bag and shoved it back in the cabinet.
“The room went darker and the shadows lengthened…
“Since that day, every time I close my eyes, I’m swallowed by a thick fog.
“Something tells me I’m not alone. Something not quite human is coming my way. But nobody will listen. They think I’ve lost my mind in this job; they say I need a doctor…”
A male customer sitting at the bar looked at the narrator who had suddenly stopped and asked, “And?”
The narrator suddenly stopped his tale, causing a male customer at the bar to take notice. This mid-thirties chap sported a drab duffel coat and pale yellow strides. His hair was slicked back, and he had a rough dark bowler hat by his side.
He seemed run-of-the-mill, like the rest of the punters in the alehouse, with dark locks and piercing blue peepers. Not particularly handsome, but not repugnant either. Nothing about him screamed for attention.
The narrator was a strapping lad in his late teens, with long limbs and chiseled features that could make any lass go weak in the knees. His short, jet-black hair and bright, blue eyes only added to his appeal.
The lad looked wistfully at the empty wine glass in front of him and let out a deep sigh.
“And then?
“Then I quit my job and returned to the countryside so that I can tell you this bullshit,” the lad responded with a sly grin spreading across his face.
The male guest was taken aback.
“Were you just pulling our leg?”
“Haha!” Laughter erupted around the bar.
However, the laughter was short-lived as a middle-aged man looked sternly at the slightly embarrassed customer and remarked, “You ain’t from around here, are ya? Lumian spins a different yarn every day. Yesterday, he was a penniless bloke who got dumped by his fiancée, and today, he’s a watchman for the dead!”
“Aye, he talks about spending thirty years east of the Serenzo River and then thirty years to the right of it. He’s full of hot air, that one!” added another regular at the tavern.
All the men were farmers from the village of Cordu, wearing drab-colored tunics.
The black-haired lad, Lumian, leaned forward on the bar counter and rose to his feet. He flashed a cheeky grin and proclaimed, “As you all know, I ain’t the one making this up. My sister pens these tales. She’s a writer for some column known as Novel Weekly or other.”
With that, Lumian turned around, spread his arms wide, and beamed at the foreign customer.
“Looks like she’s crafted quite the tale. I’m sorry you misunderstood.”
The unremarkable man in the brown tweed shirt smiled and stood up.
“What an intriguing story. And how might I address you?”
“Isn’t it common courtesy to introduce oneself before inquiring of others?” Lumian replied, returning the man’s smile.
The foreigner nodded.
“My name is Ryan Koss.
“These are my companions, Valentine and Leah.”
The last sentence referred to the man and woman sitting beside him.
Valentine, a man in his late twenties with powdered blonde hair and piercing blue eyes, wore a white vest, a blue tweed jacket, and black trousers. It was evident that he had put considerable effort into his attire, as if he had been priming himself for a special rendezvous.
He had a rather chilly look on his face, not even sparing a glance for the farmers and herders around him.
Leah, on the other hand, was a striking young woman with long, light gray hair tied into an elaborate bun and a white veil perched atop her head.
Her eyes matched her hair and she regarded Lumian with an open smile, clearly amused by their exchange.
In the glow of the gas lamps inside the tavern, the woman named Leah showed off her sharp nose and stunningly curved lips. She was definitely a stunner in the countryside like Cordu.
She wore a snug white pleated cashmere dress with a small off-white coat and a pair of Marseillan boots. There were two tiny silver bells fastened to her veil and boots. They jingled as she walked into the tavern, drawing the attention of many—especially the men.
In their eyes, this was the kind of fashionable getup you’d only see in the big cities, like the provincial capital of Bigorre or even the capital city of Trier.
Lumian gave a nod of acknowledgement to the three foreigners.
“The name’s Lumian Lee. You may address me as Lumian.”
“Lee?” Leah blurted out.
“What’s the matter? Y’all got a problem with my last name?” Lumian asked with a curious look on his face.
Ryan Koss took it upon himself to explain on Leah’s behalf, “Your last name is downright frightening. I nearly lost control of my voice just now.”
Observing the bewildered expressions of the farmers and herdsmen around him, he continued, “Folks who have crossed paths with sailors and sea merchants are familiar with a saying that’s making the rounds in the Five Seas:
“I’d rather come face to face with pirate Admirals or even kings than run into a bloke named Frank Lee.
“That person’s last name is also Lee.”
“Is he really that scary?” Lumian inquired.
Ryan shook his head in response.
“I’m not exactly sure, but if such a legend exists, then it can’t be far from the truth.”
He switched topics and said to Lumian, “Merci for the story. It merits a drink. What do you desire?”
“A glass of La Fée Verte.” Lumian didn’t beat around the bush and settled back into his seat.
Ryan Koss furrowed his brow.
“‘La Fée Verte’… Absinthe?”
“I must remind you, absinthe is harmful to the human body. Such alcohol can lead to insanity and hallucinations.”
“I didn’t expect the trends of Trier to reach here,” Leah chimed in with a grin.
Lumian acknowledged her comment tersely.
“So the people of Trier also enjoy La Fée Verte…”
“For us, life is already tough enough. No need to fret over a little more harm. This drink can calm our minds.”
“Alright.” Ryan leaned back in his chair and turned to the bartender. “A glass of La Fée Verte and another glass of Cœur Épicé.”
Cœur Épicé was a renowned fruit-based spirit that had been distilled to perfection.
The thin, middle-aged man who had exposed Lumian’s lies piped up. “Give me a glass of La Fée Verte too. After all, I was the one who told the truth just now. I can even tell you the truth about this kid’s situation!” He glared at Lumian, daring him to object. “Foreigner, I can tell you still have your doubts about the authenticity of that story.”
“Pierre, you’d do anything for a free glass of alcohol,” Lumian retorted, scowling.
Before Ryan could even respond, Lumian added, “Why can’t I tell my story and get an extra glass of La Fée Verte?”
“Because no one knows if they should believe you,” Pierre smirked. “Your sister’s favorite story to tell kids is ‘The Boy Who Cried Wolf.’ People who lie all the time lose their credibility eventually.”
Lumian shrugged and watched as the bartender slid a glass of light green alcohol in front of him. “Ça va,” he said, unbothered.
Ryan turned to Lumian.
“Is that all right?”
“Sure thing, as long as your wallet can handle it,” Lumian replied breezily.
“In that case, another glass of La Fée Verte,” Ryan said with a nod.
Pierre’s face lit up with a smile.
“Generous foreigner, you should steer clear of this one,” he said, gesturing to Lumian. “He’s the most mischievous bloke in the whole village.”
“Five years ago, his sister Aurore brought him back to the village,” Pierre continued. “He’s been here ever since. Can you imagine? He was just a wee lad of thirteen at the time. How could he have made the trek to the hospital to become a corpse watchman? The nearest hospital is in Dariège at the foot of the mountain. It would take an entire afternoon to get there by foot.”
“Brought back to the village?” Leah inquired, her voice tinged with suspicion.
She tilted her head, causing her bells to tinkle.
Pierre nodded in confirmation.
“Aurore moved here six years ago. A year later, she went on a journey and brought this lad back with her. Said she found him on the road, a starving, homeless child. She planned to adopt him.”
“Then, he took on Aurore’s last name, Lee. Even his name, Lumian, was given by Aurore.”
“I don’t even remember what my name was before Aurore gave me the name,” Lumian, unfazed by the revelation, flashed a grin and took a sip of absinthe.
It was clear that his past did not bother him in the slightest.
Total Chapters in book: 757
Estimated words: 1480854 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 7404(@200wpm)___ 5923(@250wpm)___ 4936(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 1480854 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 7404(@200wpm)___ 5923(@250wpm)___ 4936(@300wpm)
______