"You can call me Subaru," I replied to the red-haired German student before opening the door and entering my classroom.

After more than a year away from school, I was finally back! Just two more years of the grind, and then—college, here I come!

With a deep breath, I strolled confidently toward an empty chair. Settling in, I retrieved a notebook and pen from my bag, placing it neatly on the table.

The class was supposed to commence in 15 minutes...Yet only half of the students had appeared. Most were locals, with a few foreigners among them, including the German student.

To pass the time, I took out the new iPhone 5 my dad had given me as a gift for returning to school, finally replacing my old flip phone. I unlocked the screen, opened the games app, and played one of the free games. It wasn't fun, but it was enough to kill time.

It didn't take long before more students arrived; some were locals, but most were foreigners.

A few caught my attention...A beautiful girl with dyed green hair who seemed German. Following was another girl with dyed purple hair, likely from Eastern Europe. Polish? Ukrainian? Russian? Hungarian? Bulgarian? I wasn't sure, but both were strikingly beautiful.

I can't help myself but stare. Suddenly...They looked back. "HOLY SMOKES!" Thinking quickly, I smiled and nodded. Was it a good move? I Dunno, but I had to try something.

Thankfully, both nodded back. The green-haired girl had a firm expression, while the purple-haired girl giggled before they found their seats. That had to be a good sign...Right?

Another student arrived, this time a good-looking guy. He had an air of arrogance about him. Who the fuck is this guy? He sat beside the red-haired German guy. Looks like they're friends!

It didn't take long before more students arrived. Before I knew it, the class was Full... Well almost. Maybe twenty-five seats still remained unoccupied.

"Huh?" Suddenly, my eyes lock onto something mesmerizing. Her amethyst eyes shimmered like precious gems, Clear and deep as day meets night. Looking into them, this heart of mine skips a beat, and time seems to stop.

Her face, as exquisite as the rarest diamonds, leaves me breathless. Oh God, I could lose myself in those eyes for eternity. Her hair flowed and dyed in a silver hue, begging to be touched and cherished.

Her porcelain skin, so flawless and smooth, beckons me to caress and Peck. What wouldn't I give to feel its softness against my lips?

Now, I can feel my stomach fluttering, as if a swarm of butterflies has suddenly awakened within me. Is this what love feels like?

Her uniform...Simple yet elegantly tailored, almost as if made to adorn— Wait! I need to stop this! Stop this madness, Natsuki Subaru! I've only just laid eyes on her. This feeling couldn't possibly be love!

Or is it?

I watched her walk, every step exuding elegance and grace, my eyes tracing her movements like a bee drawn to nectar. Before I knew it, she was standing right in front of me.

"Is this seat taken?" she inquired, gesturing to the seat beside me. Oh, her voice! It's captivating!

"Ummm," I stuttered, caught off guard. "Y-yeah... go ahead."

"Thank you," she replied with a smile, settling gracefully into the seat. Her legs were perfectly sculpted, her curves so enchanting—my gaze lingered on her, captivated.

"Um, is there a problem?" she asked, her voice breaking through my reverie as she caught me staring.

"Uh, no! Everything's...Uh, all okay," I managed to stammer, feeling my cheeks flush under her gaze.

"Um, if I'm bothering you, I can move seats," she offered hesitantly.

"NO! Wait, you're not bothering me!" I blurted out, my heart racing. The thought of her moving away from me was unbearable. "It's just that... I find you incredibly gorgeous."

Suddenly, she bowed her head, and I caught a blush spreading across her cheeks. Cute! But then I realized...I was also blushing like a tomato!

Suddenly, a voice interrupted us. "Good morning, class," the woman a middle-aged Japanese spoke. "Welcome to Chiba High, and I will be your teacher, Mrs.—"

The class started without much fanfare. We hadn't introduced ourselves yet as the teacher mentioned that thirty percent of the class would still arrive next week, much to my dismay. I was eager to learn the name of the girl seated beside me!

Nevertheless, I'll have decided to ask her later after class.

However, I found it challenging to concentrate on the lectures. The aura and presence she exudes were just so captivating! To make matters worse! I couldn't help but steal glances at her from time to time. I could only hope she wouldn't be creeped out by my behavior by the end of the class.

And I certainly wouldn't want to be saddled with nicknames like "Kreeperbaru" or "Kursedbaru" or be remembered as "Subaru-san-who-tried-to-Creep-a-Foreign-classmate-while-in-class." Nope! Absolutely not!

However, my worst fears came to fruition.

"Mr. Natsuki," the teacher's voice cut through the air, firm and cold.

"Yes, ma'am?" I replied, feeling all eyes suddenly on me.

"I've noticed you've been staring at your seatmate for quite some time. Are you being delinquent?" Oh no! The Entire class is giving me dirty looks, with some girls whispering among themselves.

"W-wait! No, I'm not...I'm just looking out the window...That's all," I stammered, scratching my head nervously.

"Oh, really? Then explain why you're looking to your right when the window is on the other side," she countered, and my face flushed red.

"Leering and harassing a classmate, let alone a new student? I expected better from the son of Natsuki Kenichi. Do better," she scolded.

"Yes, ma'am," I replied apologetically, then glanced at my seatmate, who regarded me with an unreadable expression.

Yeah I'm done.

The first three classes flew by so smoothly that I barely noticed the bell signaling lunchtime.

To say I was embarrassed would be an understatement. Nope! I was humiliated! The son of Natsuki Kenichi, now a giant perv?

I could only imagine the nicknames: "Kreeperbaru," "Kursedbaru," "Subaru-san-who-tried-to-Creep-a-Foreign-classmate-while-in-class,"

"Subatrash!"

However, those were the least of my concerns as I had a mission: to fix or salvage my relationship with my silver-haired classmate, whom I lecherously stared at like a perv.

However, there wasn't a relationship to begin with. I mean, I barely knew the gal! What is there to fix and salvage if there is nothing at all?
However, the thought of being hated by her didn't sit quite well with me. Thus, I had to do something! Anything!

Walking the halls of Chiba High, I meticulously scanned every room and corridor in search of her. It wasn't easy with the vastness of the school complex, but I was determined.

First, I checked the canteen—a bustling sea of students, some of whom were my classmates, yet she wasn't among them.

The next stop was the library, but alas she wasn't there either.

I then searched the school grounds, but still no sight of her.

After nearly 30 minutes of relentless searching, exhaustion began to set in, and I was on the verge of giving up. But just as I was about to throw in the towel..."Huh?"

There she was, in one of the halls, her long silver hair cascading down her back, her exquisite figure catching my eye, her lovely look making my heart skip, and her gentle aura drawing me closer. My dream lady... Is frustrated? In front of a vending machine?

"Ever since I arrived," she muttered with irritation. "There's no reason this shouldn't work." She closed her eyes momentarily, nodding in frustration.

"Hi," I called out to her.

"Hm?" She shifted her gaze from the vending machine to me, her eyes widening in surprise. "How come... why are you here?"

"Well, that's a bit of a tricky question. But mainly because I wanted to get to know you," I replied, my tone sincere.

"Huh?" she asked, tilting her head cutely.

"Look, I'm sorry for what happened earlier. It wasn't my intention to disrespect you...It's just that...I find you very gorgeous," I confessed, feeling my face flush with embarrassment.

Suddenly, her cheeks also began to redden. But then her expression turned somber.

"I'm sorry too," she started, bowing her head. "Because of me, you got berated."

"Wait! No, it isn't your fault! The blame falls on me and me alone," I insisted, struck by her kindness. Then, my eyebrows shot up. "Berated? Who says that anymore?"

"Hehe," she giggled softly in response. Those laughs, those smiles—they were like precious gems, and I felt the urge to protect and preserve them.

"I mean, you do realize it isn't your fault that you're drop-dead gorgeous, right? I bet lots of guys are hitting on you every day; we just can't help it," I ventured, and she nodded in agreement.

"I do know. After all..." She paused momentarily before continuing, "I've never been uncomfortable with it for a long time, but just a moment ago, I feel like I finally understand it a little."

"Oh, you do?" I raised my eyebrows once again.

"Yes," she replied sweetly.

I didn't fully understand what she meant, but I was eager to learn more.

"I see... By the way, what are you doing here?"

"Hm?" She tilted her head again. "I was trying to get strawberry milk, but the machine doesn't work! It's reaaaally frustrating," she complained.

"Alright, let me check," I offered, and she nodded, stepping back as I approached the vending machine. After a quick examination, I couldn't help but facepalm. "Uh... this thing is 200 yen... you only put in 150."

"Huh?" The girl blushed in embarrassment.

"Yes, you didn't insert enough coins, so it didn't dispense any drinks. You'll need to add more," I explained patiently.

"Oh," the girl blushed once more.

"Why? Is there any problem?"

"Hm?" she answered awkwardly, "Yep."

"What is it?"

"Um... I left my wallet at the house...I only brought coins," she replied, embarrassed.

"Ah, I see," my eyebrows raised. Without thinking, I took out my wallet and extracted my credit card.

"Um, wait! You don't have to," she spoke shyly.

"No, I want to," I replied.

"But..."

"No 'buts'. As a gentleman, it is my duty to help someone in need! And every day, I promised to do at least two good deeds," I said as I scanned my credit card on the vending machine. I bought four, one for me and three for her.

Afterward the bottles fell from the machine. I took them and gave her three.

"Huh?" She tilted her head cutely. "Only need one."

Alright, here it goes. I hope it works. "I gave you three because... three has a meaning."

"A meaning?" She asked. Curiosity painted on her face as she waited for my answer. "And that meaning is...?"

Summoning up all my courage, I gave it my all. "Three means... I care for You!" I blurted out, feeling my cheeks flush as her face lit up with a blush.

Silence enveloped us, neither of us uttering a word. Nervousness pulsed through my heart as I prayed for a favorable outcome.

Then, unexpectedly, she broke the silence with a pout. "Dunderhead!" she muttered.

I chuckled at her choice of words. "Who even says 'dunderhead' these days?" I joked, eliciting a laugh from her.

"You reaaally are a dunderhead, Mr. Natsuki!" she continued, with her laughter eventually fading.

"Very well," she said suddenly. "I promise to repay you someday!"

I smiled at this opportunity. And I would not let it slip away. "Actually... you can repay it now!" I said with a smile.

"Hm?" she asked, her face surprised but adorable.

"May I have the privilege of knowing your name?" I then offered my hand to her.

Within seconds, her tense gaze softened, and a lovely smile formed on her lips.

"My name is Emilia."

Wow, that's so sweet, Daddy! So it was love at first sight?!" Chocorina exclaimed

"Daddy! You said you met my mommy and Rina's mommy, but you only talked about Rina's mommy! Unfair!" Luna pouted

"Love at first sight for me? Well, Absolutely! And by the way, Luna, I actually met your mom on a different occasion. The story behind it is quite funny, haha!" I chuckled warmly

"Daaaddy!" Chocorina called out once more as I carried her on my shoulders

"Yes, dear?" I replied, continuing our walk.

"Did Mommy Emilia love me, Daddy?" she asked again.

"Of course, dear," I responded. "Your Mommy Emilia loves you so much."

"How about Momma Rem, Dad? Does she love Spica as well?" Spica chimed in, holding my right hand.

"Your Mother, Rem loves you so much, Spica," I replied, looking at her. Then, I glanced at Luna, holding my left hand, and Helena, leading the way to the convenience store. "So do Luna and Helena. Your mothers Estelle and Prisca, love you both dearly," I added, trying my best not to get emotional again.

"Wait, why these questions all of a sudden, girls?" I inquired

"Uh," Luna started, "Me and Helena went to the library yesterday Daddy!"

"Oh really? That's good to hear."

"And uh... and," Luna continued, looking around with a confused expression. "Uh, Helena, take over!" she added shyly.

"As per the literature we have read, it said that by fixing our gaze upon a star and fervently casting our wishes, our aspirations shall come true, Father," Helena answered excitedly, followed by nods from her sisters. "Fortunately, yesterday, mineself and my sisters gazed upon a falling star, and we collectively wished for the return of our mothers!"

"Yay!" the others responded with glee in their voices.

A wish upon a star.

I once believed that stars brought fortune and blessings, like rain nurturing fields, and that they granted our desires and wishes. After all, my name, Subaru, comes from the Pleiades constellation. If only it were that easy. But now I know better.

My wives are dead, and there's nothing I can do about it. If only there were a way to reverse time! To change fate! To start over and prevent that fateful day.

Even at the cost of my life, I would...But that's a fool's dream.

There is simply nothing I can do.

I then stopped walking, which caught the attention of my daughters. Gently carrying Chocorina from my shoulders, I set her down beside her sisters and faced them.

"Why did we stop, Daddy? Are you O-kay?" she asked cutely.

"Rina, Spica, Helena, Luna," I called their names as I knelt to their level and embraced them. Thankfully, they were all small enough that I could hug them all at once. "Look... Daddy loves you all," I said, patting their backs and heads. "Daddy's here, and he will never leave you, alright?"

"Why are you talking like that, Dad? Are you going to die soon?" Spica spoke, her voice filled with worry.

"No, not at all," I reassured them, then began to speak the painful truth. "Your mothers... they may be gone forever," I could feel my emotions starting to overwhelm me. "But look, I'm here! All you need is Daddy, Right? Haha!" I laughed, but a single tear fell from my eyes.

"But Dad!" Spica complained, her voice filled with longing. "We want our moms!"

"Spica, you have to understand... Not everything you want, you will get."

"But Dad! The kids back at school have all their moms! It's so unfair! I want Mom back!" she replied, her voice breaking into sobs, followed by her sisters. I could feel a part of me dying inside.

"Girls..." I struggled to hold back my tears. "I know it's unfair... But life is unfair, and you all have to accept it...Your mothers are gone...Forever...They would never come back...If only I could do something...I'm so weak! Daddy is sorry for being weak," I replied tearfully.

At this, my daughters began to sob uncontrollably.

"Let it out. It's okay...Daddy is here...Daddy loves you all."

Followed by words of comfort, I continued patting their heads and backs; after all, that's all I can do for them. I feel so useless.

Minutes passed, and they eventually calmed down. "Look, how about we all get ice cream? You want that?" I asked.

They nodded, a little smile appearing on their faces.

"Alright, ice cream and gummy bears for everybody!" I added with a smile, hoping to bring back a bit of their lost happiness.

Standing inside the Mini Stop in the manga and light novel section, I flipped through the pages of a manga, quickly glancing at its contents. As expected, it wasn't interesting...Too cliché.

"Ah, I see, so this is how they suck you in," I muttered, continuing to flip through the pages.

["NO... Run! Please!"]

Huh? What was that? Oh, just two young couples outside walking together. I could see them through the store window, all happy and content, which made my blood boil. I stared at them as they walked away from my sight.

*Sigh*

I returned the manga to the shelf, no longer in the mood for stories.

Walking towards the instant noodle section, I looked at the flavors and grabbed one.

["No... I'm not losing you again..."]

"Nah, not the natto," I said, returning the noodle cup to the shelf. "Hmm, how about this instead?" I grabbed a bunch of seafood and beef cup noodle flavors, as they were the kids' favorites.

["NO, PLEASE! Have-"]

I then went to the chips aisle and picked up a couple of bags, followed by stopping at the condiment section to grab a few bottles of mayonnaise.
Next, I headed to the cashier and placed my items on the counter. The cashier quickly began scanning them.

"Girls, have you gotten your ice creams yet? Mom and Dad are still waiting at home," I called out to my daughters as I heard them rummaging through the ice cream section.

"Chocorina! Stop hogging all the chocolate flavors!" Spica complained.

"I am not! It's just the last one!" Rina shot back.

"Will you cease your squabbling, sisters? Father is waiting for us," Helena chimed in.

"Ugh, fine,"

After that, it didn't take them long to finally reach the cashier and place their ice creams on the counter to be scanned, to which the cashier quickly obliged.

"You got what you want?" I asked.

"Yes, Daddy."

"Yes, Daddy."

"Yes, Father."

"Yes, Dad."

They all answered back in unison, a cute smile on their faces. I then patted their heads.

"Good!"

The cashier swiftly scanned all our items, and before we knew it, he announced, "That'll be 3190 yen."

I then took out my wallet, rummaged through the bills, and gave him 3200 yen. "Keep the change," I said, to which he nodded, took my money, and handed me our items.

"Thank you," the cashier said.

I nodded and delved into the plastic bag. Retrieving four cups of ice cream, I handed them to each of my daughters, who greeted me with smiles.

Smiles I would die to protect. "Shall we go then?"

Stepping out of the convenience store, I felt an unusual chill in the air. It was nearly summer, so this cold didn't make sense. With my daughters in tow, I began to walk back home when Spica tugged on my tracksuit.

"Dad?" she said in a neutral voice.

"Yes, dear?" I asked.

"Have you talked to Grandpa Quark yet?"

"Huh? Why, what's up with him?"

Spica pouted. "Dad! Did you really forget? I'm spending the summer with Grandpa Quark and Grandma Tamae at their home in Sapporo."

"What?! You are?" I asked, shocked. When was this decided?

Spica nodded. "Yes, Dad! Grandma Naoko and I told you months ago, remember? They will be picking me up after our trip to Disneyland,"

"Me too, and Luna, Daaaddy!" Rina chimed in. "Nanna Fortuna and Nonno Guese are arriving from Italy on Monday as well,"

I frowned at this. "Aw jeez, I guess it's just me and Helena then," I said, patting Helena's head.

"Not quite, Father. Grandmother is fetching me next week as well," Helena added.

"Damn... so you'll be spending your summer in London, then?" Helena nodded, and a look of sadness appeared on my face.

"So you girls will be leaving Daddy then? You don't need Daddy anymore?" I said, feigning a tear on my face.

"Don't say that, Dad! Spica and her sisters love you!"
"Yes, Daddy! We love you very much!"

"Rina's right! Luna loves Daddy!"

"Worry not, Father! We'll send you, postcards every week to express how much we love you."

I'm not typically one for drama, nor am I particularly emotional. However every time my daughters do this to me, my heart melts. It brings joy and balm to my soul.

"Come here my little babies," I said, embracing them. "Don't worry, Daddy will be fine. Enjoy your summer vacation, alright?"

"But what will you do while we are away, Daddy?" Chocorina asked.

"Huh? I dunno, probably work nonstop, then play video games with my buddy Kazuma,"

"I don't like that man, Father," Helena pouted. "He's setting you up with females with shoddy characters. My father deserves better than that!"

"Hahahaha! I know, I know," I patted her, followed by a grin on my face. "Wait! Don't you want Daddy to give you guys a new mother?"

"NOOOOOOOOOOOO!" they collectively screamed.

"Alright, chill! Daddy doesn't plan to, don't worry," I assured them. "Shall we head home then?"

They all nodded in agreement.

Taking each of their little hands in mine, we began to stroll down the sidewalk toward the awaiting street crossing.

["I'm truly sorry... but no matter what... I'm going to save you all."]

"Huh?"

Suddenly, my eyes caught something that made me stop dead in my tracks,

"Are you okay, Dad?" Spica asked curiously.

I rubbed my eyes and scanned the surroundings. "Oh, it's nothing, sweetheart. Just a bit of eye strain from being holed up in the room, gaming all day."

I rubbed them again, and suddenly, a blinding light engulfed my vision, leaving me temporarily blind. After a few agonizing seconds, the intensity of the light ebbed away.

Slowly, I opened my eyes to a new scene—it was suddenly daylight.

"Huh?" I mumbled, confused, as I observed my surroundings. "Where am I?"

Strange people walked by, speaking in a language I couldn't understand. The architecture was foreign and bizarre. Then, in the distance, I heard the sound of a bell. "What's going on?" My voice trembled.

Suddenly, a massive lizard-like creature emerged, pulling a carriage or coach behind it, its sheer presence causing the ground to tremble.

"DAAADDY!" I heard Chocorina and Luna scream, fear evident in their voices.

Instinctively, I dropped to their level, enveloping all four in a firm embrace.

"It's okay, it's okay," I murmured as I guided them to a safer spot on the street. "Shhh, everything's fine. See?"

I noticed a nearby concrete bench beside a large fountain and immediately led my daughters to sit there. Once they were comfortable, I surveyed our surroundings again.

The city had an architectural style reminiscent of the late medieval or early Renaissance periods. The inhabitants were a mix of humans and unusual beings—cats, lizards, wolf humans, and dog Demihumans. Was that a dwarf? No, it looked more like a halfling.

The city's transportation was also weird. It was primitive, yet instead of horse-drawn carriages...Dragons or Large lizards pulled the coaches.

"I'd say I was dreaming, but this is way too real. Are you seeing what I'm seeing, girls?" I asked, turning to my daughters.
"The weird animal people? Uh-huh," Spica said, her voice filled with amazement.

"A city that appears reminiscent of the past? Indeed, Father," Helena remarked with a touch of wit.

Luna and Chocorina just nodded, still too shocked to speak.

"So, does this mean...?" I began, my voice filled with astonishment. "We've been summoned to another world?!"

"DAD!"

"Father!"

My two youngest daughters scolded me, their voices of embarrassment and concern.

"...A World where Demihumans are commonplace, and there's always a war or an adventure to tackle. And in this magical world, I must've..." I started, my words falling out in excitement.

"Dad!" Spica interjected, her tone reminiscent of a rebuke. "Are you watching too much anime again?"

"Yes... I mean, NO," I stumbled, caught off guard. "I mean, look, why am I summoned here then? The only explanation is this must be destiny...NO, THIS IS DESTINY!"

"Iyaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!" Suddenly, we heard a scream, prompting us to look in its direction. A little boy was lying on the road, about to be hit by a fast-approaching dragon carriage.

"This is it! I could feel it surging!" I said, my voice filled with excitement as I put my grocery bags down.

"Feel what, Daddy?"

"Feel my power surging!" I exclaimed. Then, I kneeled and stretched my arms forward while opening my palms. "This must be an event where I'll learn to do magic... Haaaa!" I screamed and visualized magic emanating from my body, pushing the little boy to safety.

However, it didn't do anything. "Huh?"

Just before the boy was to be hit by the carriage, an armored soldier dove and snatched the boy to safety, barely escaping death by a thread. After the carriage passed, the armored soldier raised his fist, and a round of applause erupted from the crowd surrounding the area.

"Way to go," a lizardman applauded.

"Well done!" a catboy chimed in.

"Bravo, sir knight!" a human lady blushed.

"Ehhhh," I mumbled awkwardly, then glanced at my daughters, who were wearing smug grins. "looks like Daddy's not quite ready to use magic yet," I said, scratching my head

We continued our stroll, now in a market district, observing the city's unique blend of 17th-century Central European charm, albeit with distinct cleanliness. But what stood out was the presence of peculiar demihumans and dragon mounts.

However, no matter how I scanned the bustling crowds, I couldn't catch a glimpse of an Elf...A beautiful hot elf...Aw, man.

Tiger people, leopard people, dwarfs, dog demihumans of every variety, horsemen, bird persons – it was a bustling mix of animal creatures!

"Dad!" Spica chimed in as we walked. "Just admit it, you don't have any powers! Don't be silly," she scolded.

"Spica's right, father. It would be wise for us to adopt a low profile until we can determine our precise location," Helena suggested, her wit shining once more like her mom.

"Fine, you're both right. Daddy's weak and powerless...Again," I sighed, shaking my head. Then, as we continued our walk, I noticed a fruit stand to my right. "huh?" I uttered, catching the attention of the seller at the fruit stand.

"Hey, boy. Those are some weird clothes you and your daughters have on. You folks aren't from around here, are you?" he asked, raising his eyebrows inquisitively.

"No, we're not. And I'm not a boy! I'm already twenty-three!" I shot back, an annoyance in my voice.

"Eh, whatever," he retorted, rolling his eyes dismissively. "Anyways, you want some Appas? This thing is the freshest you'll find!" he boasted, showing me an apple.

"You mean apples," I corrected him.

"Huh? I don't know what an 'apple' is," he retorted cluelessly.

I just rolled my eyes at this. "Eh, fine. At least we speak the same language...Let's see..." I then reached for my wallet and handed him a thousand yen bill.

"Huh? What currency is that from? You can't use that here in Lugunica," he said harshly. So, this place is called Lugunica, huh? "And if that's all you've got, then you're broke?!" he shooed my hand away. What a prick!

"Get the hell Outta here! Don't waste my time, brokey!" he screamed, attempting to grab my collar.

However, instinctively, I caught the apple vendor's hand and twisted it.

"Ow ow ow!" he screamed in pain. "Ya asshole, let go of my arm!" he roared.

"Don't touch me then," I responded firmly, pushing him away. "Let's go, girls."

I swiftly grabbed my daughters' arms, and we immediately left the vicinity. If this had happened five ago or six years I would have let it slide. But now? Probably? Eh. But definitely not in front of my daughters. Damn, that Aikido training really did come in handy, huh?

"That's okay, Daddy. We don't like apples that much anyway," Chocorina said, trying to cheer me up.

"Thanks for cheering me up, little angel," I replied, sighing. "Oh well, Guess I'll have to stick to good old information gathering," I muttered as my daughters and I walked into a small building.

Inside, there were cubicles and what looked like bathrooms. A bunch of girls, some human, and some demihuman, were inside.

"Huh?" I stared at them, lost in thought, and they stared back at me.
Suddenly, a collective scream erupted from the group of females.

"HIYAAAAAAAA!"

"Shit!"

As we continued our stroll, I couldn't help but exhale a sigh of relief. Even though I got slapped in the face, it was fine! I mean, It could have been worse!

However, Spica didn't share the same sentiment. "Dad!" She scolded me as we walked, a red mark burning on my cheek from an encounter with one of the demihuman women in the restroom.

"I know, I messed up," I admitted with a sheepish grin, earning disapproving glares from my daughters. Darn, I really need to do better. "But seriously, this isn't even the worst thing I've ever done."

"So far," Helena added with a pout.

"Okay, okay, fair enough!" I said, attempting to reassure them. "But don't worry, girls! I got this," I assured them as we halted infront of a tavern-like establishment.

"Dad!" Spica spoke up again, her voice laced with worry. "Please don't tell Spica you're going in there," she pleaded.

"Yep," I replied, determination in my voice. "Listen, why don't you all stay here while I gather more information? Daddy will be back in a second, Alright?"

And with that, I stepped into the building, leaving my worried daughters outside.

Big Mistake!

"HEY! This joint is strictly for demihumans only!" A lizardman barked, drawing the attention of the entire demihuman clientele.

"What?" I spoke, trying to process his words.

Before I could react, another demihuman burst into the bar and hurled me aside. His strength was staggering, propelling me backward and out of the tavern with incredible force.

"Dad?"

"Father?"

Spica and Helena's voices echoed as they witnessed my unexpected flight through the streets and straight into...The river? Holy smokes.

"DADDY!" Luna and Chocorina screamed as I plunged into the waters.

"Daddy, stop being a dunderhead!" Chocorina scolded me as we sat inside an alleyway, my jacket wet and removed, with Helena and Luna trying their best to dry it.

"I know, jeez," I replied, feeling downtrodden before speaking again. "Seriously? Is this how it's supposed to be? Because it doesn't make sense!" I exclaimed aloud.

"What doesn't make sense, Dad?" Spica chimed in, tilting her head.

"My powers? Where are they? My main character setup and status bar? I mean, this is supposed to be an isekai adventure, Right? And the gear they've started me off with is a joke!" I exclaimed, then pointed at the wet plastic bag filled with chips, mayo, and instant noodles. "Seriously, if they're going to bring people like me into their world, they should have given me better items and stuff!"

"Here we go again, Father," Helena replied. "I thought my sisters and mineself already told you that this isn't some anime, and certainly, you are powerless."

I sighed. "Yeah, I know. We are not in a game, and your daddy is powerless," I admitted, closing my eyes. "I know I should have moved on from this ever since I became a dad, but sometimes my otaku-ness comes out, and I just couldn't help it."

I then dug into my pockets and took out my iPhone. "Huh? Well, at least my phone still works."

"Dad?" Spica spoke, her voice tinged with worry. "Who are they?"

"Huh? Why?" I looked up, and immediately my eyes narrowed.

Three men approached us: one tall and thin, one fat, and the last as small as a dwarf. Their faces and auras...Well, let's say they were giving off some seriously shady vibes.

"Eh?! Look what we have here, boys!" the smallest one exclaimed.
Then, the tall and thin one stepped forward. "If you don't wanna get hurt, cough up whatever you—" Before the skinny boy could finish his threat, my leg sprang into action.

BAM! I delivered an immediate frontal snap kick, my shoe connecting with his chin and knocking him out cold.

With my foot firmly planted on the ground, ready for the next move, I wasted no time.

"Huh-?" The fat man barely had a chance to react before my legs swung into action once more. With a Spinning Back Heel Kick, the heel of my shoe connected squarely with his jaw, sending him crashing to the ground, unconscious.

With my foot planted again on the ground, I was ready again. I needed to end this now!

"Why y-" the dwarf man started, but I never let him finish his words. They meant nothing after all, not after they threatened my daughters!

"Shut the fuck up!" I growled as I delivered an axe kick, hitting him square in the head. He crashed to the ground. Without hesitation, I followed up with another swift kick to ensure he stayed unconscious for a while.

A brief smile crossed my face, but it quickly disappeared as I heard another voice.

"You... will... pay!" It was the skinny thug. I thought he was out for good, but there he was, struggling to stand and retrieve a weapon hidden behind his shirt. This wasn't good; I needed to act quickly and decisively.

Closing the distance, I launched a quick jab at his face, causing him to stumble. I followed up with a devastating right hook and an uppercut, clearly rocking him.

With him wobbling, I unleashed my best move. "Hah!" I screamed as I jumped into the air and delivered a Tornado Kick, hitting his jaw with precision and knocking him out...This time for good.

With all threats neutralized, I dusted off my clothes and approached the skinny man, who was unconscious on the floor. I flipped his body and proceeded to frisk it, discovering two long daggers. "He's really armed, huh? Good thing I neutralized him first," I said, taking the dual daggers with me and hiding them in my pockets.

"Wow!" Spica suddenly cheered. "Dad is awesome!"

"I know, right?" Chocorina seconded.

"As expected of our father," Helena commented.

"Yep!" Luna happily chimed in.

I kicked the fat one in the head again, not enough to cause injury but firm enough to keep him unconscious. Overconfidence and cockiness were luxuries I couldn't afford now. I turned to my daughters, ready to reply to their compliments, when—

"Move it, move it! Move it, you guys!" I heard a voice in the distance.
"Huh?" My eyebrows raised. Wait, I recognize that voice.

Getting closer, I could now see her: blonde hair, red eyes, petite...Wait, who is she again? I struggled to remember.

"Hurry! Out of my way!" she spoke as I watched her run past me and my daughters.

I just stood there as she disappeared, still wracking my brain at the weirdness of things. "Felt? No, That's just a coincidence," I muttered silently.

I mean it should be impossible, Right?

"Who's that, Dad?" Spica spoke, tilting her head like her mom.

"I don't know either—" I started but heard a sound. Swinging my head back, I could see the dwarf man now seemingly awake, attempting to crawl away.

"Still awake?" I said with a dangerous tone, immediately walking toward the dwarf thug. "Go back to sleep," I added as I prepared to football kick his head.

"Wait, no!" he begged as he realized what I was about to do, his eyes growing as big as pancakes. "No, please! HEEEEEEEEEELP!" he screamed like a frightened child.

"TSK!" I clicked my tongue, readied my foot, and prepared to send him again to the shadow realm.

"That's enough," a voice, firm and lovely, echoed through the alley.

"Huh?" I turned my gaze towards the source, my daughters mirroring my actions, their eyes also drawn to the figure. Suddenly, my knees felt weak.

Her dress was elegant with white and violet lines, adorned with emblems, and her hair delicately braided with a white nestled at her left head.

Her eyes, like amethysts, and her long silver hair...Her face... No, this can't be!

"Stop now, and I'll let this slide. And if you would be so kind as to give back what you stole," the girl spoke once more, her voice still firm but sweet, like a melody in the air.

I swallowed hard, feeling a rush of emotions, my heart pounding rapidly.

"E-" I stammered, unable to tear my gaze away and unable to utter a single word. The world around us seemed to slow until everything disappeared, leaving just the two of us.

And in that moment, our eyes met, sending a jolt down my spine, just like the first time.

Tears welled in my eyes, unnoticed yet unimportant. After all, eyes are windows to the soul, reflecting a person's life and aspirations. And by gazing into hers, a wave of belonging, relief, familiarity, and passion washed over me.

It was love.

A love that transcends time, transcends worlds, and transcends lives.

"B-been l-looking for y-you... I-i finally found y-you," I spoke as tears continuously fell from my eyes.

"Huh?" she responded, tilting her head, confusion apparent in her face, making her more beautiful.

"You... My Tan," I sobbed as I stepped forward towards her.

"Mommy?" Suddenly, Chocorina's eyes grew wide. She then looked up and down at her from head to foot. "MOMMY! IT IS YOU!" she began to run toward her and embrace her. "Where have you been, Mommy? Why did you leave me and Daddy?" she pouted as she embraced her.

"Eh?" she uttered, confusion apparent on her face, but her gentleness and kind behavior showed, a trait I've grown to love as she patted our daughter on the head. "Are you Okay,? Where are your mom and dad?" she asked Chocorina.

Chocorina pouted at this. "Hmpf! Mommy's a dunderhead! How can you ask where my mommy is when my mommy is you!" She embraced her once more. "And my daddy's there!" She then pointed at me.

Emilia once more looked at me. I couldn't believe this! After all these years!

"Emilia," I said as I walked toward her.

"Eh? How did you—" she began, but I hugged her immediately. "I love you so much, Emilia-tan! I love you so much that it hurts!" I said to her with passion.

"Wait, I don't un—" she began to protest, her voice shocked, but I knew what to do; after all, she is my wife.

Loosening my embrace, I then cupped her face with my hands. "I love you, my wife," I said softly. Without thinking, I kissed her on the lips.

(To Be continued) PS: OMOLIO Bestgirl