It felt like ages before I was finally home, where I plopped down upon my bed and faded into sleep.

I groggily rubbed my eyes, trying to shake off the remnants of sleep as the enticing aroma of maple bacon enveloped my senses. My stomach growled in response, urging me to investigate the source of this delicious wake-up call.

With a mix of curiosity and hunger, I threw back the covers and swung my legs over the edge of the bed. As I made my way towards the kitchen, the lingering fog of sleep began to dissipate, replaced by a sense of anticipation and the lingering question of who could be responsible for this delightful surprise. Only now do I remember that I live alone.

My heart suddenly jolted with anxiety. Taking a deep breath, I reached for one of the many swords hanging on my wall and leaned against the door that led from my bedroom into the open space of my living room and kitchen.

Swallowing the massive lump that had formed in my throat, I slowly and cautiously began to crack open my door, peering out through the gap. There, I spotted Albert. What was he doing here?

My heart raced even faster as the realization hit me. Albert had saved my life just yesterday, intervening in a dangerous situation that could have ended tragically. But how did he know where I lived? The situation suddenly felt unsettling, and my grip tightened on the sword.

I cautiously approached Albert, my voice trembling slightly. "Albert, how did you... find my house?"

What a creep just barging in here like this, I didn't even hear a knock, and even if he did, I didn't answer... I have half a mind to swing this sword right now.

He turned to face me, his warm smile replaced by a concerned expression. "I apologize if this seems intrusive, but after the incident yesterday, I noticed your identification card had fallen out of your wallet. I saw your address and thought it would be best to return it personally."

He could have just thrown it in the mailbox.

But also... I don't remember my wallet even being jostled from my pocket. Though given the adrenaline-inducing situation, it's quite possible that my ID had fallen from my wallet. This whole situation was...

Looking at the spread of food, my concern and confusion dissipated. Eggs perfectly golden with cheese, ham, bacon, sausage, and even steamed veggies! The whole spread looked like it would be enough to feed a king!

now... call me stupid... but surely... SURELY someone who went through the trouble of cooking such a marvelous meal just for me could be all bad....Surely no Mallous could be sensed… right?

While I couldn't fathom why Albert had taken such an unconventional approach, his intentions seemed harmless enough. I lowered the sword, feeling a bit silly for even considering it as a weapon.

and to be honest, i was more concerned with satiating my own hunger at this moment in time rather than my own safety, besides albert seemed nice enough... if not a bit intrusive.

I decided to trust him. How could I kick him out? Even if he did break in, this wonderful assortment of food was just begging to be eaten.

"This spread looks amazing, Albert, thank you!" I exclaimed, my hunger overpowering any lingering doubts. The sight before me was a culinary masterpiece, with an assortment of mouthwatering dishes that made my stomach growl in anticipation.

"Don't mention it, I'm happy to do this much," Albert offered a friendly smile and with a hint of pride in his eyes, gestured towards the table filled with an array of dishes.

However. I couldn't help but notice a crucial item of food missing

"Sooo... Where are the pancakes," I asked, looking at the wide assortment of plates but seeing no sign of the butter sweet discs of gluten and carbs. I looked back over to Albert, tilting my head for an answer.

Albert, however, gave a rather uncomfortable look as his eyes scanned me from top to bottom, then back to top again. "I don't think eating pancakes would be the best for your health."

Ouch... I already knew I was overweight, but damn! Though I suppose that's the gentlest way someone could say, "You're a fat tub of lard who doesn't need to be adding pancakes to your already massive body."

I couldn't help but let out a defeated whimper as I berated myself for even wanting sweets in my current condition.

Degrading myself for even questioning such a generosity, I nibbled into the omelet. My thoughts still lingering on pancakes. However those thoughts were soon blown away in a near orgasmic experience of flavor rushed through my body from my tongue.

The flavors exploded in my mouth as I savored each bite of the omelet. The combination of the fluffy eggs, melted cheese, and assortment of vegetables created a symphony of flavors that delighted my taste buds. It was a pleasant surprise, as I had never imagined that an omelet could be this delicious.

I couldn't help but express my amazement to Albert, who was watching me with a smile. "Albert, this omelet is incredible! How did you manage to make it so flavorful?"

Albert chuckled and replied, "Well, I'm glad you're enjoying it! The secret lies in the freshness of the ingredients and the right combination of spices. I put a lot of love and care into preparing it, just like everything else on the table."

Love and care? That's unusual, considering we just met. Nevertheless, I appreciated the effort he had put into crafting a nutritious and satisfying meal. Each component had been thoughtfully selected to provide both taste and nourishment.

As I reached for a slice of the crispy maple bacon, my anticipation grew. The aroma of the bacon filled the air, and I couldn't wait to experience the combination of smoky, salty flavors with a hint of sweetness from the maple glaze.

As I took my first bite, the crispy texture gave way to a burst of rich, savory deliciousness. The smoky flavor mingled perfectly with the sweetness, creating a delightful symphony on my taste buds. The combination was so incredible that I couldn't help but let out a moan of satisfaction.

Albert chuckled at my reaction, clearly pleased with my enjoyment. "I'm glad you like it! The bacon is prepared with a special maple glaze that adds a unique touch to the dish. It's all about balancing flavors and making each bite a memorable experience."

I nodded enthusiastically, my mouth still full of the heavenly bacon.

After relishing the flavors of the bacon, I reached for the glass of fresh-pressed orange juice that sat beside my plate. The vibrant, golden liquid glistened in the sunlight, promising a refreshing burst of citrus goodness.

I took a sip, and instantly, my taste buds were awakened by the tangy, sweet taste of the freshly squeezed oranges. The juice was perfectly balanced, not too acidic or overly sweet, and it quenched my thirst with its natural vibrancy.

As I enjoyed the invigorating sensation of the orange juice, I couldn't help but appreciate the simplicity and purity of this natural beverage.I'd go on about the nurtrients but honestly I didnt give a damn about that.

I glanced over at Albert, who was watching me with a contented smile. "Albert, this orange juice is incredible. It's so refreshing and pure. Thank you!"

"Would you like some more?" he asked, tilting his head, his smile still intact.

"Yes, please!"

"Here you go." He gently refilled my glass, his actions seemingly effortless. I paused, completely and utterly stunned.

I blinked in astonishment as the orange juice seemed to flow effortlessly into my glass, courtesy of Albert's seemingly magical touch. My eyes widened, and I couldn't even let out a surprised gasp. Every muscle in my body tensed, and a mix of curiosity and fear washed over me.

"How... How did you do that?" I managed to stammer.

"Magic," he replied simply.

"Yes, magic, of course... silly me. You must have used some sort of illusion," I said, trying to rationalize the situation.

"No, I mean genuine magic... no tricks, no mechanics," Albert stated with a serious tone.

I looked at Albert, now feeling a sense of unease. His eyes had sharpened, and he appeared focused, rather menacingly honestly.

I glanced at Albert with a mixture of fear and curiosity as his eyes sharpened and his demeanor turned serious.

"I apologize if I've startled you... but I believe showing before telling would be the best approach to this conversation. Elias, you are in grave danger, and I have been sent by your late father to guide and protect you."

I stared at Albert, my mind racing to comprehend the sudden shift in atmosphere. The once lighthearted breakfast scene had transformed into something far more unsettling. His words echoed in my ears, stirring a mix of fear and confusion within me.

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"My late father?" I managed to stammer, my voice barely above a whisper. "What do you mean? Why would I be in danger?"

Albert's gaze softened as he took a step closer, looking rather concerned. "Elias, you are the son of the late King Yuriel Vallamore, of the Vallamore Kingdom…. Though i suppose it would now be called the Liria Queendom… Look there is a lot that needs to be explained, but right here, right now, we need to get moving. The sooner, the better. Pack up your bags."

"Look, Albert, I appreciate your help yesterday, but I think you may need to go to the hospital... This is Earth, and as far as I know, there is no such thing as 'The Vallamore Kingdom.' or even a 'Liria Queendom' Let's get in my car, and we can take you to a hospital for a check-up." I tried to rationalize with him, thinking that something must be wrong if he was talking about fictional countries.

"Elias, please listen to me. Your aunt Roisin has been hunting down your father's descendants for months. Haven't you been experiencing dreams? Terrible, unexplainable nightmares? Your bloodline is connected to this early warning system. You've seen it, haven't you?"

That's... weird. I haven't told anyone about my dreams.

"Look... I'll humor you. I don't know how you could know about the dreams, but my father hasn't been a part of my life at all. Why would this supposed aunt of mine be after me? How would she even know about me?"

"There's an enchanted family tree that contains the names and details of every member of the Vallamore family ever born. It includes the location of birth... I don't think I need to explain why your existence is a threat to her current position. I can explain everything once we reach a safe location."

This guy is absolutely crazy! I should have kicked him out the moment he broke into my house. The food was delicious sure, but no meal would make me believe this far-fetched fairy tale he's spinning. Still... I can't figure out how he filled my cup with juice seemingly out of nowhere. He must have drugged the food. The sooner I get him out of this house, the better.

"Well... That's a fascinating story you've concocted, but I think it's best if you leave now."

"Elias..." Albert called, his eyes narrowed to a glare once more.. His tone foreboding and bodeful, like a predator eyeing its prey or more like a parent about to give a very stern lecture. "Elias... listen carefully, for time is of the essence,and I will not repeat myself further." Albert's voice rang with an air of urgency and determination. "Your aunt, in her nefarious design, has dispatched a retinue of malevolent agents to eliminate us. They have been in relentless pursuit since yesterday, their dark intent etched in their every move.

"These minions, under the sinister influence of your aunt, possess a tenacity matched only by their malevolence," Albert continued, his voice measured and resolute. "They shall not rest until they have snuffed out our existence. We must act swiftly and stealthily to evade their grasp."

"They possess skills honed through years of ruthless training, skilled trackers who leave no stone unturned," he emphasized, his frustration barely contained. "To elude their clutches, we must employ our wits and outmaneuver their relentless pursuit. Choose your essentials with utmost care, leaving behind any trace that may lead them astray. Sentimentality and attachments, though cherished, can be lethal burdens."

"Time is a merciless foe, Elias," Albert pressed on, his voice tinged with both determination and concern. "With each passing moment, they draw nearer, their malevolence palpable in the very air we breathe. Swift action and a resolute spirit shall be our greatest allies."

"Elias, I need you to think very carefully. I understand that all of this is overwhelming, but consider this: What reason do I have to lie? You have no money, and if I wished you dead, I would have simply let that shooter succeed yesterday. There is a grave threat upon us,trust me when I say that your life is in immediate danger, and we must act swiftly to ensure your safety."

As I listened cautiously to Albert's compelling argument,. The situation seemed far-fetched, like something out of a fantastical story. But as I pondered his words and considered the evidence he presented, a part of me couldn't help but acknowledge the logic behind his claims.

The attempted attack on my life, which he saved me from, the unexplainable dreams that had haunted me,The bit of hocuspocus i bore witness to with the orange juice, First how could he know about the dreams? How did he do that trick with the orange juice… He truely has nothing to gain from telling me any of this… and he did save my life… perhaps he was telling the truth… Still….

I took a moment to gather my thoughts, weighing the possibilities in my mind. If Albert was telling the truth, my life was at stake, and dismissing his warning could have dire consequences. I couldn't afford to let skepticism cloud my judgment. It was time to embrace a logical approach and consider the evidence before me.

"I must admit, Albert, your arguments are rather convincing....," I said, my voice laced with caution. "The events of yesterday and the nightmares I've been experiencing are accurate and undeniable..." I paused, taking a deep breath as I let my skepticism wane. "While I still find it difficult to grasp the notion of a hidden kingdom and my royal lineage, and magic I choose to trust you. I'll go pack my things."

As I turned to head towards my room, a surge of adrenaline coursed through my veins, spurred on by the urgency of the situation. I swiftly gathered the essentials—a change of clothes, some money, and any items that could aid us on our journey. Thoughts raced through my mind, contemplating the unknown that lay ahead, but a need to survive and protect myself guided my actions.

I made my way back towards Albert a smile on his face.

"Im glad you've decided to come with me, i was about ready to drag you out honestly." Albert said

"Yeah. Funny... I'm ready to go, we taking my car?"

"Yeah, I think that would be best... Enough chit chat, your aunts forces will be here..." I watched in disbelief as Albert's expression shifted from determination to sheer horror. "GET BACK!" Albert threw his hand forward, a cocoon of light quickly shimmering around me, and just as quickly no sooner had the wall beside me bursted back with an explosive force that sent me sprawling to the ground, my ears ringing and my heart racing. Through the haze of smoke and debris, I could see Albert shielding himself with the same shimmering barrier of magic. He moved swiftly, his movements fluid and purposeful, as he directed his powers to contain the spreading flames and protect us from harm.

Coughing and struggling to catch my breath, I managed to rise to my feet, my eyes fixated on the scene of chaos before me. The wall that had been the target of the explosion was now a charred mess, smoke billowing out into the room. The realization hit me with full force—I had been targeted for assassination, and Albert had once again come to my rescue. Although I appreciate it, I really hope this doesn't start becoming a pattern.

As the smoke gradually cleared, revealing the extent of the destruction, a wave of despair washed over me. My house, once filled with memories and cherished belongings, was burning away before my very eyes. The fire raged on relentlessly, its destructive force defying Albert's best efforts to contain it. The crackling flames danced and devoured everything in their path, consuming the remnants of my former life.

Just as I was losing myself in thought, Albert's urgent voice cut through the haze of my mind, snapping me back to reality. "Elias... Elias!" His words seemed momentarily muffled, as if underwater, before gradually clearing. "Elias, we need to go, get to your car!"

Startled by the urgency in his voice, I quickly shook off my daze and sprang into action I turn to do as he bid when suddenly three cloaked individuals brandishing sharp blades, their intentions clear, shot out from the billowing smoke, their menacing presence sent a chill down my spine even though albert was the one currently engaged in combat. I felt bad for him though. A fleeting thought crossed my mind—are they stupid? Why werent they using massive magical attacks to obliterate us and the home... it did strike me as odd that a secound explosion didnt go off after the first. Were they intentionally avoiding magical attacks to draw out the confrontation?

While I pondered their strategy, Albert was already in motion, a graceful whirlwind of agility. His movements resembled an intricate dance, weaving effortlessly between their blades. It was as if he had anticipated their every move, evading their strikes with calculated precision.

As the assailants closed in, Albert deftly maneuvered towards the wall of what was once my bedroom, where my collection of swords hung. With a swift motion, he seized one of the blades, seamlessly transitioning from defense to offense. His skilled twirls and parries became an art form, each strike precise and purposeful.

The clash of steel filled the air as Albert engaged the attackers, his unwavering focus and honed combat skills evident in every move. His determination was unwavering, his eyes locked onto his adversaries, analyzing their patterns and exploiting their weaknesses.

I stood transfixed, my awe mingling with a sense of helplessness. I wanted to rush to his aid, but the intensity of the battle and the sheer speed at which it unfolded left me momentarily frozen. I watched, holding my breath, as Albert's movements became a symphony of steel and magic, the clash of opposing forces echoing through the ruined remains of my home.

With each swing of his borrowed blade, Albert forced the attackers onto the defensive. His strikes were swift and calculated, testing their defenses, seeking an opening. It was a relentless dance of blades, a duel where every move could mean victory or defeat.

As the skirmish raged on, I snapped out of my temporary paralysis and realized I needed to act. I searched my surroundings, my eyes settling on a fallen wooden beam that had once been part of the wall. With a surge of determination, I grabbed it, turning it into an improvised weapon.

Joining the fray, I lunged at the nearest attacker, swinging the makeshift weapon with all my might. Though my strikes lacked the finesse of Albert's, they carried a raw desperation fueled by the desire to protect myself and those I cared about. Though that seemed to do more harm than good, now the person who i attacked what focused on me some thing Albert berated me for.

"YOU FOOL! I SAID GET TO THE CAR!" His fear anger and frustration was more than warranted, unlike the shooter though, i didn't freeze, not that it helped. aside from the first strike, all of my attempted attacks were blocked and deflected. the difference in skill and training was painfully apparent. The man i attacked quickly disarmed me through a quick flourish of his blade.

I froze. the only thing i could do was shield myself with my arms as the mans blade raised to give the final blow.

Before the man could bring his blade down upon me, Albert swiftly intervened, catching the mans blade with his own and with a well-placed kick, he propelled me backward, ensuring I was safely out of harm's way. The impact knocked the wind out of me, leaving me momentarily stunned. However, the urgency of the situation propelled me into action once again.

Gasping for breath, I regained my bearings and forced myself to focus. Albert's intervention served as a stark reminder of my role in this precarious situation—to reach the car and ensure our getaway. Pushing aside the fear and frustration, I quickly regained my resolve and redirected my efforts towards the task at hand.

Without wasting another second, I heeded Albert's words, his admonishment still echoing in my mind. With renewed determination, I turned away from the ongoing fight and made a beeline towards the car, keeping my head low to avoid any stray attacks.

The sounds of clashing blades and the sparks of magic filled the air as I raced towards the vehicle. Each step was fueled by a mix of adrenaline and the desire to escape the impending danger. Panic threatened to consume me, but I pushed past it, focusing on the goal of reaching safety.

Finally, I reached the car, my breath ragged and my body sweat-soaked. With trembling hands, I fumbled to unlock the door, desperately trying to steady myself. As the lock clicked open, I swung the door open and slid into the driver's seat.

My heart pounded in my chest as I fumbled for the key, struggling to insert it into the ignition. The tension in the air was palpable, a constant reminder of the peril we faced. Finally, with a click, the engine roared to life, its familiar rumble providing a glimmer of hope.

In the midst of chaos Albert crashed through the wall with a resounding impact, my heart sank at the sight of him being overwhelmed by the relentless assault of the attackers. Time seemed to slow down as I clenched my fists around the steering wheel.

This was the moment—the moment when I had to summon every ounce of courage and take decisive action. Without hesitation, I slammed my foot down on the gas pedal, propelling the car forward with a surge of power. The engine roared, matching the fire that burned within me.

The group of men, engrossed in their assault on Albert, barely had time to register the approaching danger. Their attention snapped towards me as the car hurtled towards them, their eyes widening with a mix of surprise and fear.

In that fleeting moment, a wave of determination washed over me. I would not allow them to harm Albert any further. With unwavering focus, I aimed the car directly at the group, their figures blurring as fear and determination coursed through my veins.

The impact was swift and fierce. Metal collided with flesh, and the sound of crunching bones filled the air. The force of the collision sent bodies flying, some crashing into the flaming walls of my house, others landing with a sickening thud on the ground.

Albert looked towards me in shock."What the hell was that!?"

Adrenaline still pumping through every fiber of my being, and more then a little annouyed by the rather stupid question from Albert. I screamed. "GET IN THE FUCKING CAR"

He wasted no time and dove into the passenger seat, his face a mix of exhilaration and shock. As I slammed my foot on the accelerator, we left a cloud of dust and bewildered attackers in our wake.

As the adrenaline began to subside, the gravity of my actions sank in. I had just plowed through a group of assailants like a madman's demolition derby. It was equal parts terrifying and exhilarating.

A brief moment of silence hung in the air before albert, breaking the stillness, finally spoke up. "That was Brilliant... Thank you."

I couldn't help but feel this strange sense of victory at Alberts words. Not to mention the attackers never saw it coming, and the looks on their faces as I slammed into them was threatening to make me chuckle" I never thought I'd be using my car as a battering ram. I mean, sure, I've had those wild fantasies of revenge, imagining plowing into jerks who cut me off in traffic or obnoxious coworkers. But actually doing it? That was a whole new level "

Albert raised an eyebrow, a small smile playing on his lips. "Ah, so you've entertained the idea more than once huh?"

I shrugged, a sheepish grin spreading across my face. "Well, who hasn't, right? But deep down, I always knew I wouldn't act on those impulses. I guess desperate times call for desperate measures."

As the miles rolled by, I couldn't help but reflect on the absurdity of the situation. The image of my car crashing into those cloaked figures kept replaying in my mind, and I finally couldn't take it any more found myself chuckling at the sheer unexpectedness of it all.

"But you know, Albert," I said, the laughter fading away, "as crazy as it was, there was something strangely empowering about it. It felt like I took control, even if just for a split second."

Albert's expression turned cautious, his voice tinged with concern. "I understand the rush you felt, Elias, the sense of control in a chaotic moment. But be careful. Defending yourself is one thing, but I don't want you getting your kicks out of harming people just because you can, or, gods forbid, you develop some sort of power trip."

"Yeah... Okay.." I felt a bit like a child getting lectured for burning ants with a magnifying glass.

There was a moment of silence between us, the weight of Albert's cautionary words hanging in the air. But then, unexpectedly, a chuckle escaped Albert's lips, breaking the tension and bringing back lightheartedness to the atmosphere.

"Did you catch a glimpse of that one guys faces just before you rammed them?" he asked, a mischievous twinkle in his eyes.

The memory of their startled expressions flooded my mind, and I couldn't help but join in the laughter. It was a mixture of relief, absurdity, and the sheer satisfaction of turning the tables on our assailants.

"YES! Oh God, his face!" I exclaimed, my laughter blending with Albert's.

As the laughter subsided, we exchanged knowing smiles, a silent understanding passing between us.

"Now... Where exactly are we headed?" I asked with a rather blank yet confused expression playing upon my face.