My Substitute CEO Bride

At a swordsman association on the Land of Nion, Alfius was sparring against three people, none of which were a match for him. He soon defeated them all. "You're amazing, Alfius."

"Indeed. I bet you'll be the next president of the swordsman association."

Alfius shook his head.

"I... don't think so."

"What's the matter, Alfius? The government has recognized our association as the most powerful swordfighting association in the country. So many people wish to become the president but fail to. "Meanwhile, you're so well-skilled, and your relationship with the current president..."

"Hey! That's enough."

"Haha, he's too outspoken for his own good. Please don't hold this against him, Alfius."

Alfius shook his head.

"It's alright. Do you guys want to have lunch together? I brought sandwiches..."

"Haha, that's alright, Alfius. We're not very hungry yet, but you can go ahead and enjoy your lunch! We'll be practicing elsewhere for now."

"Oh... Is that so? Alright then..."

The three shoved at each other playfully as they left.

A wave of emotions washed over Alfius as he gazed down at the wooden sword he held.

"Little Slash, do they... hate me?"

Alfius began muttering to himself as he gazed at the sword.

"Perhaps you were right, but... I still hope everyone could... That's impossible! What do you mean I'm the chosen one? I think I'm just an idiot that everyone hates.

"Master made a mistake by bringing me back here. No matter what, I don't want to become president of the swordsman association. What do you mean, why? I just... I don't think I'm cut out for the job.

"It's true! I've already turned down Master's offer back then, so why did he bring me back here? What do you think, Little Slash?"

"To train me? I don't know, but

perhaps you're right. Thanks for consoling me, Little Slash. Yeah, I'm going to get her some of her favorite pastries later. I got to go now. Goodbye, Little Slash."

It was a snowy evening.

Alfius walked down the street by himself.

Upon reaching a grave, he placed two pastries on a plate.

"I'm here to visit you, Sunny, and I've brought your favorite pastries as well. Come give them a try.

"I went to a really cool place not too long ago. It had beautiful sights, and I also met someone who claimed to be a god. Do you think the gods will bring you back to life? Haha, I'm

joking. You probably don't want thatnoveldrama

to happen...

"I went to the fireworks festival this year. It was beautiful, just as you described it, and just as beautiful as..." Tears began welling up in Alfius' eyes.

The next moment, he covered his face with his hands and began trembling.

However, he did not make a single noise.

A long while passed. The wind stopped howling, and the pastries became covered in a layer of white snow before Alfius finally gathered himself together and got to his feet.

"I've made up my mind. The day

Master decides to pass on the position, I'll escape... Do you think I'm a coward? But I really don't want to continue fighting with the others. You'll support me... right?"

Just then, a massive demon materialized before Alfius.

Alfius closed his eyes. He whipped out the blade and sheathed it back swiftly, making a slashing movement so fast it was nearly imperceptible.

The demon was instantly slashed into two halves.

"What's going on? Why have there been so many demons recently..."

Alfius walked about the streets after bidding goodbye to Sunny.

"Sir! Get me a crepe..."