How to shift Perspective in First-person perspective novel?

[MakBow]

So, my novel is written in first person perspective.

How exactly do you change perspectives the right way to another person?

Do you just change to third person perspective, or do you stick to first person?

Currently struggling with this in my novel.

 

[IWILLDEFYTHEHEAVENS]

If you already have many readers for the book, things might get a bit awry as they might be reading the book because it's written in first person's perspective.
To change it, you should be ready to lose some readers too.
But, if you are just starting and there aren't many readers yet, then the rest is easy.
To change from first to third isn't anything hard at all.
All you need to do is change the pronouns.
Eg.
First perspective
I grabbed my phone and scrolled through the net when I saw something interesting.

Third perspective
Marcus grabbed his phone and scrolled through the net when he saw something interesting.

---

But in case you are struggling to adapt, you can also use the two perspective, that's how I write.

I'll use my book as an example.

---

CHP 2.

They finally arrived at a secluded courtyard, hidden from the noise and bustle. Tall trees encircled the house, their thick branches intertwined like an intricate formation, offering both shelter and secrecy.


They rounded a corner, then Jin Yu froze.



A small figure stood in his path and he nearly collided with her.



His first instinct was to yell

Are you blind?!.
but he swallowed it down.



She was tiny, Maybe five years old and she was dressed in black like a pocket-sized widow.


Who is this? My sister? Why’s she dressed for a funeral?



Before he could speak, her voice rang out.



“Brother! I know you’re blind, but I didn’t think you were this blind! Didn’t you see me standing here?!”

Jin Yu was startled.


Did this five-year-old just roast me?



Just Then—DING!

Dominion Protocol initializing…

---

The slanted words are in first person's perspective, it can be used to indicate 'internal monologue', the character speaking.
And the normal wording are in third person's perspective, the author narration.

---

Is my explanation clear enough?

 

[Eldoria]

Switching between first-person and third-person limited POV changes the tone, vibe, and overall narration. Unlike third-person limited POV, the POV can flexibly switch between characters within a scene based solely on gaze, emotional state, and the perspective of the conflict. Because third-person POV assumes the reader is a limited observer, you can observe the world/setting of the conflict objectively and limitedly.

However, first-person POV is difficult because the reader's position is the narrator (usually the protagonist or character directly involved in the conflict). This means assuming you must complete your scene from the first POV before switching to another POV. Otherwise, the transition will be abrupt and lose immersion. I'll give an example of switching from first to third POV as follows:

Spoiler: A Secret Letter For Big Sis Clara

Morning in Rose Valley…

POV: Caelan El Rose – Mommy’s Little Daughter

“Caelan, honey… wake up… it’s morning.”

I opened my eyes and saw Mommy gently shaking my body. Mommy was so, so beautiful. Her silver hair sparkled in the sunlight.

I sat up and rubbed my eyes.

“Good morning, Mom…” I said with a big yawn.

“Hurry and get changed and brush your teeth, honey. Breakfast is ready,” my mother said softly.

I stretched out both arms toward her, asking to be carried.

“Mom… help Caelan get dressed,” I whimpered.

Mommy smiled and let out a soft sigh.

“Caelan truly is Mommy’s little daughter…” Mommy pinched my cheek. It tickled. “Come here, honey.”

Mommy hugged me. I loved being hugged by Mommy.

It felt so warm. I love you, Mommy.

…

After Mommy helped me change my clothes and brush my teeth, she held my hand and guided me to the dining room.

I climbed onto the wooden chair. Mommy helped me up.

A warm, sweet, savory smell drifted into my nose. I turned toward the table. There were honey toast, sunny-side-up eggs, warm milk, and steamed vegetables waiting in front of me.

Drool accidentally dripped from my mouth. I grabbed the honey toast and ate it greedily.

Mommy’s cooking was so delicious. I wanted to eat Mommy’s cooking forever. Hehe…

“Honey… eat slowly! Your lips are messy,” Mommy said as she wiped my mouth.

“Thank you, Mom. Caelan loves Mommy,” I said, hugging her tightly.

Mommy gently patted my back. I tightened my hug. I liked it when Mommy patted my back.

I released my hug. Mommy smiled, sitting beside me with a white napkin in her hand.

I looked at the chair across the table. It was empty. Yesterday, Big Sister Clara always sat there, keeping me company during breakfast.

I looked up at Mommy’s face and puffed my cheeks.

“Mom… when is Big Sister Clara coming home?”

Mommy’s lips flattened. She patted my head.

“Honey… Big Sister Clara is still busy working in the capital,” Mommy said.

I lowered my head.

“But… Caelan wants to play with Big Sister Clara…” I whimpered.

Mommy stroked my silver hair. It felt so nice.

“If Caelan wants Big Sister Clara to come home soon, Caelan can send her a miss-you letter. Yesterday, Mommy taught Caelan how to write a letter, right?” Mommy said softly.

“A letter for Big Sister Clara?” I looked up at her gentle face.

“Yes, honey. Big Sister Clara loves sweet girls like Caelan the most. Mommy can help you write a letter if you want,” Mommy said.

“I want to write a miss-you letter for Big Sister Clara. But—” I shook my head. “Mommy can’t peek at Caelan’s letter, okay?”

“Why not, honey?” Mommy asked with a gentle smile.

“Caelan wants to make a secret letter for Big Sister Clara, Mom. If Mommy knows that I miss her sooo much and want to play with her again, then it won’t be a secret anymore.”

“This letter is a secret between Caelan and Big Sister Clara. Mommy can’t know,” I said, puffing my chest proudly.

Mommy covered her mouth. I heard a tiny little sound from her lips. Then she lowered her hand.

“Mommy won’t peek. The letter is a secret between you and Big Sister Clara,” Mommy said with a smile. “Finish your breakfast, honey.”

Mommy took a piece of toast with a fork, cut it with a knife, and ate slowly. I tugged at the hem of her dress.

Mommy stopped eating and turned to me.

“What is it, honey?”

“Mom, after Caelan finishes the letter for Big Sister Clara… how does Caelan send it?” I asked while touching my chin in confusion.

“Caelan doesn’t need to worry. Mommy will help send your letter using Mr Pigeon,” Mommy said.

“Mr Pigeon?”

“Yes, honey. The pigeon will take your letter to the capital and deliver it to Big Sister Clara,” Mommy said.

“Wow… Mr Pigeon is super nice. Thank you, Mom. Hehe…” I said, laughing happily.

“You’re welcome, honey.”

Mommy tried feeding me some soft-boiled spinach. I’d eaten it before, and it tasted flat—so yucky.

I covered my mouth with both hands. I didn’t want Mommy to feed me the yucky vegetables. I wanted honey toast.

“Open your mouth, honey,” Mommy said with a small sigh.

“Caelan doesn’t like boiled spinach, Mom. Caelan wants honey toast,” I whined, keeping my mouth shut tight.

Mommy lowered the spoon. Her lips curved downward.

“It’s okay if Caelan doesn’t like vegetables. But if you don’t eat your vegetables, you won’t grow up pretty like Mommy.”

My palms suddenly trembled. I lowered my hands.

“Caelan doesn’t like vegetables. But Caelan wants to grow up like Mommy,” I said, opening my mouth.

Mommy smiled and fed me. I chewed the wet vegetable. It still tasted bad. But Mommy gave me warm milk.

“Drink your milk first, honey,” Mommy said, handing me the cup.

“Caelan likes warm milk,” I said while drinking it. “Hehe… it’s delicious.”

“Good. Now finish the vegetables, okay?” Mommy coaxed.

“Okay, Mom,” I nodded obediently.

Mommy kept feeding me the soft vegetables until the plate was empty. Then she gently patted my head.

“Good girl. Caelan really is Mommy’s daughter,” she praised.

I loved being praised by Mommy. I wanted more praise. Hehe…

Mommy and I finished breakfast until all the plates and cups were empty. Mommy carried them away.

“Mommy will wash the dishes now, honey.” She smiled softly. “Do you want to write your letter alone or with Mommy’s help?”

“I can write it myself. Mommy just has to help send it with Mr Pigeon.”

“Have fun, honey,” Mommy said. “If you want paper and a pen, you can take them from Mommy’s locker.”

“Okay, Mom. I’ll write the letter. Don’t peek,” I said as I climbed down from my little chair.

Mommy just smiled and walked to the kitchen, carrying the dishes. I stood there, staring at her back. Then I headed to Mommy’s room.

I opened the door. It creaked. I stepped inside Mommy’s room.

I stood in front of her silver-colored desk. I looked at the top of the table. There was a photo of Mommy and me.

Mommy stood behind me in a crimson rose dress, hugging my neck. I wore a dress that matched hers.

I was holding a bouquet of roses. It was our New Year's photo. I loved that photo. I loved taking pictures with Mommy.

Caelan really, really loves Mommy. I want to take more pictures with Mommy.

I looked up at the ceiling while holding my chin. Not just with Mommy—I wanted to take pictures in the rose fields next year with Mommy and Big Sister Clara.

I couldn’t wait to take pictures together. Big Sister Clara was already my Big Sister after all. Hehe…

Then, I opened the drawer under the photo. Inside, I saw Mommy’s belongings. There were two silver necklaces. I picked one up… it had a beautiful rose-shaped pendant.

I put it back. Then, I took one of the notebooks. I opened it—still empty. I placed it on the table.

I squinted, peeking deeper into the drawer. Inside, there was a small silver box. I took it out.

I tried to open it. But—

“Ugh…”

The box was so hard to open. I pulled at the lid while biting my lip. The hinge creaked. Finally, it opened.

Inside the silver box were various hair-care tools: a silver comb, dried flower clips, and little ribbons that Mommy usually used to tie my hair.

I picked up the shiny silver comb. But when I lifted it, something fell onto the floor.

I placed the comb and the silver box on the table. Then, I picked up a piece of black-and-white ribbon from the floor.

I stared at the ribbon. I sniffed it… it smelled like wet soil mixed with a faint scent of roses.

I tugged and stretched the ribbon. It shrank and expanded like rubber. Then—

“Puff…”

A wisp of thin smoke drifted into the air. The smoke brushed my cheek. It felt wet and cold like morning fog.

“Tap… tap…”

I heard footsteps approaching. Then Mommy’s voice called out to me.

“Caelan, honey. What are you doing?” Mommy asked.

Mommy stood behind me. Her eyes widened slightly.

I tilted my head and showed her the black-and-white ribbon.

“Look, Mom. This ribbon can make fog.” I tugged it again. “The fog is really cold.”

Mommy knelt down and patted my head. I looked up and saw my reflection in Mommy’s blue eyes.

“Caelan, honey. That is Mommy’s secret item,” Mommy said softly. “You also want to make a secret letter for Big Sis Clara, right?”

“Yes, Mom,” I nodded.

“Would Caelan want Mommy peeking at your secret letter?”

“No, Mom. A secret letter can only be seen by Caelan and Big Sis Clara,” I said, shaking my head firmly.

“It’s the same for Mommy.” Mommy smiled. “That ribbon is Mommy’s secret item. Caelan should ask Mommy first before touching it. Do you understand?”

“I understand, Mom,” I said as I handed her the ribbon.

“Sorry, Mom. Caelan peeked at Mommy’s secret things,” I mumbled while lowering my head.

“As long as Caelan understands now, it’s alright, honey.” Mommy stroked my hair.

I looked up and watched her place the black-and-white ribbon and the silver comb back into the silver box.

Then, Mom gave me a notebook, eraser, pen, and crayons neatly wrapped in a pink pouch.

“Caelan can make your secret letter using this stationery,” Mommy said, passing them to me.

“Thank you, Mom,” I said, lifting the pink pouch into the air happily.

Mommy tidied up the silver table. She also straightened the position of the photo. Then, she took my hand.

Mommy walked toward the door. I glanced behind her and saw thin grey mist leaking from the drawer. The mist hovered in the air before fading.

I touched my head. What kind of mist was that?

“What is it, honey?”

Mommy called me. I looked up and saw her smiling at me.

“Nothing, Mom. Caelan can’t wait to write a secret letter for Big Sis Clara,” I said excitedly.

“Good. Caelan can write your letter in your room. Mommy will send it once you’re done,” Mommy said gently.

“Mommy is the best,” I said.

…

Mommy brought me to my room. Then she left me inside. I sat on my soft chair.

I swung my legs. I tore a sheet from the notebook. Then I picked up a pen.

“Big Sis Clara is busy… Caelan has to find a way to make Big Sis Clara remember to come home!” I muttered.

My hand began moving across the white paper. I wrote a secret letter for Big Sis Clara. Mommy would never know… Caelan misses her and wants to play with her again. Hehe…

I gripped my pen tightly. Oh no… the words were crooked. I erased them. Then I wrote again.

Suddenly, the afternoon arrived. I drew a big heart at the bottom of the letter. Then I colored it red with a crayon.

I wiped the sweat from my forehead. Finally, the secret letter for Big Sis Clara was done. Big Sis Clara would definitely be happy with Caelan’s letter.

“Caelan, honey… lunch is ready!”

Mommy’s voice suddenly called me. I folded the paper into a small square. I climbed down from my chair. Then, I headed to the dining room.

“Mom… Caelan’s secret letter for Big Sis Clara is finished,” I said, handing the little square to Mommy. “Don’t peek, okay?”

Mommy smiled and said, “Mommy won’t peek, honey. Go wash your hands first. After that, you can have lunch, alright?”

“Okay, Mom.”

I went to the bathroom to wash my hands. Then I returned to the dining room.

I climbed onto the wooden chair. Mommy served roasted beef. Yay!

“Let’s eat, honey.” Mommy sliced the meat thinly. Then she fed me. “Ah… open your mouth.”

“Mm… it’s so good, Mom,” I said, holding my cheeks.

That afternoon, I had lunch with Mommy again. Mommy fed me until I was full. Mommy truly was the best in the whole world. Hehe…

...

Three Days Later in the Capital…

POV: Detective Clara – Royal Detective

Clara walked down the corridor of the Rose Guard’s office. She passed by a blonde female staff member.

“Miss Clara… you’ve returned.” The woman smiled softly. “You cut your hair?”

Clara gave a small smile. “Yes. My hair was so long it would reach the floor if I didn’t tie it up. I cut it shorter so it wouldn’t hinder my mobility.”

“You look more charming this way, Miss.” She handed Clara a pink-colored letter. “This letter is for you, Miss Clara.”

“A letter for me?” Clara pointed at herself.

“Yes. It came from Rose Valley. Perhaps one of your admirers sent you a letter of praise,” the blonde explained.

“Thank you,” Clara said as she accepted it.

“I’ll take my leave. May you have a pleasant day, Miss Clara.” The woman bowed respectfully and walked away.

Clara stood still for a moment. Then she headed to her room. She sat quietly in her work chair. Before her, a stack of documents lay on the desk, waiting for her touch.

But Clara’s eyes remained on the pink letter. A faint scent of roses drifted from it. Clara smiled. She carefully broke the seal and took out the white paper.

She read it closely. Her green eyes grew misty.

Dear Big Sis Clara,
Caelan is at home with Mommy.
Mommy says Big Sis is busy working.
Caelan waits every day.
Big Sis Clara promised to play with Caelan again, right?
Don’t lie, Big Sis!
Caelan kept the rose Big Sis gave me.
The rose is dried now.
The smell of the flower is fading.
But Caelan still remembers their smile.
Don’t be sad in the city, Big Sis.
Or Caelan will be sad too.
Mommy also feels sad when Caelan is sad.
So Big Sis Clara must stay strong!
Don’t forget to come home.
Caelan is waiting at home for Big Sis Clara.
From Caelan – your little sister.❤

The handwriting was messy. Rough strokes ran across the paper, as if written by someone who had only recently learned to write. Still, the words were clear enough to read without a magnifying glass. At the very end, a crayon-colored heart was drawn.

“Caelan…” she whispered. “Why are you so kind… so sweet…”

Clara pressed the letter to her chest for a moment. She could feel the lingering warmth left behind by the little silver-haired girl. She couldn’t suppress the smile that formed on her lips. She slipped the letter into her leather wallet.

Then, Clara stood. She walked toward the door and reached for the black coat hanging on the hook. Her hand grasped the doorknob—but stopped.

Not because of duty, not because of fear, but because… her heart had begun to miss her. Clara missed Caelan’s innocent laughter.

Amid her investigation and the dust of a past the world had chosen to forget, a new, pure intention bloomed in the heart of a royal investigator: to protect the laughter of a little girl.

“Caelan… I’ll come back. Wait for me—” she whispered.

Clara stepped outside and began her new journey.

Spoiler: Adventure of Little Daughter with Mommy

A Clear Sky in Rose Valley…

POV: Caelan El Rose – Mommy’s Little Daughter

“La-la… la-la-la…”

I sang along the road. Today, I’m going to pick mushrooms in the forest with Mommy.

This morning, Mommy woke me up. Mommy changed my clothes. Caelan loves Mommy so much.

Mommy prepared breakfast for me. Honey toast, eggs, milk—I like all of it. But I don’t like boiled spinach. It tastes bad.

Mommy fed me until I was full. Mommy also ate the leftover spinach I didn’t finish. Mommy is really nice. Hehe.

After breakfast, Mommy asked what I wanted for lunch. I wanted grilled mushrooms… Mommy hasn’t cooked mushrooms for me in a long time.

Mommy said the mushroom seller was sick. So I can’t eat mushrooms today. But I want mushrooms.

I puffed my cheeks, crossed my arms, and sat on the dining chair. I won’t leave this chair until Mommy listens to me.

Mommy smiled softly. Mommy stroked my hair. It felt so good. Hehe.

Mommy said she would look for mushrooms in the forest behind the village. Mommy sighed. Her lips curved downward.

Mommy said if she went to the forest, I would be alone at home. I shook my head. I want to go with Mommy.

Mommy didn’t say anything. Then Mommy looked at me.

I could see my reflection in Mommy’s blue eyes. Mommy is really pretty. Hehe.

Mommy said I could come, but I had to obey.

I nodded. I don’t want to be left behind; I want to go with Mommy.

Mommy allowed me to come. Yay! I get to go on an adventure to the forest with Mommy. I can’t wait. Hehe.

…

“La-la… la-la-la…”

“Trii-li… trii-li-lii… tii-ri-lii…”

The birds sounded so pretty. I turned to the trees on the right side of the road. Yellow birds were dancing on the branches.

“Mommy… look! Mrs Bird is singing with Caelan,” I said, pointing at them.

Mommy smiled and patted my head. I love it when Mommy pats my head.

“The birds like sweet girls like Caelan,” Mommy said gently.

“Hehe… Mrs Bird is really nice, Mom,” I said cheerfully while raising my hand.

Mommy and I watched Mrs Bird fly, then settle into her nest. Mrs Bird was warming her eggs.

Mommy held my hand and said, “Let’s continue our walk, honey.”

“Okay, Mom,” I said, gripping Mommy’s hand. Mommy’s hand is so soft.

I kept walking on the green ground. Wow, the forest is beautiful. Lots of tall trees, green grass. Colourful butterflies. But—

“Hah… hah…”

My chest hurt. My forehead was sweaty.

Mommy stopped. Her blue eyes widened when she saw I couldn’t walk anymore.

“Honey… if you’re tired… tell Mommy, okay?” Mommy lifted me into her arms. “Mommy told you to stay home.”

I shook my head. “No, Mom. Caelan wants to go with Mommy. Caelan doesn’t like being left alone,” I said with a pout.

Mommy gave a small smile. She pinched my cheek. It tickled so much.

“Caelan is Mommy’s daughter. But—” Mommy exhaled. “Caelan must not force herself. If you're tired, tell Mommy, understand?”

“I understand, Mom,” I said, nodding, then hugged Mommy.

Hugging Mommy feels so warm. Mommy really is the best in the whole world. Hehe.

Mommy carried me. Sometimes she stopped to wipe the sweat on my forehead.

I tugged the hem of Mommy’s dress. “Mom… when can we eat mushrooms?”

Mommy stroked my silver hair. “Be patient, honey. We’re almost there.”

I nodded. “Caelan will wait, Mom.”

“Good. Caelan is a good girl.”

Mommy kept walking. I looked up and saw the sky growing darker.

The trees were so tall. The sun was covered by the leaves.

But I could see between the leaves. Mr Sun was still peeking at me and following me.

Maybe Mr Sun is feeling shy. Mr Sun can follow me. Caelan doesn’t mind.

I looked behind us. My chin was on Mommy’s shoulder.

I saw Mr Sun following until the leaves covered him. Mr Sun couldn’t peek anymore.

“Mommy… the forest is dark. Mr Sun can’t peek at Caelan anymore,” I said, pointing up.

Mommy laughed softly. Then Mommy caressed my face.

“We’ve arrived, honey. Here, we can find Caelan’s favourite mushrooms,” Mommy said gently.

“Yay! Caelan wants to get down and help Mommy look for mushrooms. Can I, Mom?”

“Caelan is a good girl.” Mommy set me down. “But Caelan must promise Mommy. Don’t go far from Mommy.”

“And if Caelan gets tired, Caelan must tell Mommy, understood?”

“Caelan understands, Mom,” I said happily, hopping lightly.

My feet touched the mossy ground. I crouched down. My eyes spotted mushrooms.

They grew on a rotten log. I picked the mushroom and walked back to Mommy.

“Mom… can we eat this mushroom?” I asked, giving it to her.

Mommy took the mushroom. Her blue eyes studied it. Then Mommy sighed softly.

“Honey… this mushroom can’t be eaten,” Mommy said gently.

I lowered my head. “But Caelan wants to help Mommy…”

Mommy patted my head. “Don’t give up, honey. Caelan can look for more.”

Mommy stood still for a moment. Her lips curved into a smile.

“If Caelan has trouble finding mushrooms, you can let Mommy handle it.”

“No, Mom. Caelan wants to help,” I said, shaking my head.

“Careful, honey. Caelan can gather them first, and Mommy will check them later, okay?”

“Mommy really is the best,” I said eagerly.

I walked again around the fallen log. I’m going to find lots of mushrooms. I want Mommy to praise me. Hehe.

I walked between the tree trunks. Termites were lined up along the wood.

I wanted to play with Mr Termite. My finger was about to touch Mr Termite. But—

“No! Caelan can’t play yet. Caelan has to look for mushrooms first,” I said, pulling my hand back.

I stepped over the fallen logs. I paused for a moment.

“Why are there more and more logs?” I asked while touching my chin.

I walked again through the grass and rotten wood. I crouched down and saw lots of mushrooms. They looked like ears. The mushrooms grew on the wood.

I picked the mushrooms. I rolled up the hem of my clothes and placed the mushrooms inside the fabric.

I picked more and more ear mushrooms from the woods. Then, I walked past a log covered in bushes. Then—

“Wow… there’s a field in the middle of the forest,” I said in awe.

I saw lots of logs in the field. I walked toward the logs arranged like the books on my desk.

I crouched down and picked a big ear mushroom from the bush near the woods. But—

“Mmm… who is this uncle?” I asked while touching my head.

I saw an uncle sleeping on the ground. His clothes were dirty.

“Uncle… don’t sleep here. Mommy said sleeping outside can make you cough,” I said while poking the uncle’s cheek with my finger.

But the uncle kept sleeping. He didn’t want to listen to me.

"Crack…"

I heard a twig snap. I turned around and saw Mommy standing behind me.

“Mommy… look! This uncle is sleeping on the ground…” I said while pointing at him.

I looked at Mommy’s face. But Mommy wasn’t smiling like usual. Her blue eyes widened.

“Mommy?” I tilted my head.

“It’s alright, honey. Come here—” Suddenly, Mommy smiled softly again.

Mommy lifted me into her arms.

“Look, Mom! Caelan already collected mushrooms!” I said proudly, showing her the ear-shaped mushrooms in the fold of my clothes.

Mommy took one of my mushrooms. She examined it closely.

Then Mommy smiled faintly and stroked my hair.

“Good job. Caelan truly is Mommy’s daugher. These mushrooms can be made into barbecue, honey,” Mommy said gently.

“Hehe… Caelan can eat mushroom barbecue. Yay!” I said happily.

I laughed joyfully, being praised by Mommy. I really like it when Mommy praises me. Mommy, please praise Caelan even more. Hehe.

…

Mommy put my mushrooms into the red pouch.

Oh, right, I forgot. There was that strange uncle sleeping on the mossy ground.

“Mommy… who is that uncle?” I asked while pointing at him.

Mommy didn’t answer. I looked at Mommy’s face. Her lips curved downward.

“Mommy?” I asked, eyes wide.

Suddenly, Mommy shook her head, then kissed my forehead.

“Honey, that uncle is just resting. Don’t disturb him.”

“But Mom, you said if Caelan sleeps outside, Caelan will cough. That uncle might cough if he sleeps there, Mom,” I said curiously.

Mommy stroked my face and gave a small smile. “Honey, you walked in the forest earlier and got tired, didn’t you?”

“Yes, Mom. Caelan couldn’t walk anymore,” I said, nodding.

Mommy smiled. “Just like you, that uncle is tired too, honey.”

“Tired?” I turned my head left and right around the uncle.

There were more uncles sleeping on the ground. They wore dirty iron clothes.

These uncles must have pushed themselves too hard like Caelan, then fell asleep from exhaustion.

“Caelan understands, Mom.” I stopped and held my head. “Can Caelan help wake the uncles up, Mom?”

“No, honey. Don’t disturb them. Let them wake up on their own,” Mommy said gently.

“It’s already noon. Let’s go home, honey,” Mommy said.

“Okay, Mom,” I replied obediently.

But before we left, Mommy walked toward a chubby uncle who was sleeping, leaning against a log. Mommy reached into her dress pocket.

Suddenly, a single stem of a rose appeared.

Wow, Mommy can do magic tricks. Mommy is amazing. Hehe.

Mommy placed the rose stem on the uncle’s body. Mommy gave a faint smile as she looked at the uncle sleeping peacefully on the ground.

“Let’s continue our walk, honey.” Mommy smiled softly. “Caelan can’t wait to eat mushroom barbecue, right?”

“Yes, Mom. Caelan wants to eat Mommy’s mushroom barbecue.” I tugged the edge of Mommy’s dress. “Let’s go home, Mom. Caelan is hungry.”

Mommy chuckled softly and kissed my cheek. “Caelan truly is a sweet girl. Say goodbye to the uncles, honey.”

“Goodbye, uncles.”

Mommy then carried me in her arms, and we went home.

That evening, Mommy made me delicious mushroom barbecue. Mommy really is the best in the whole world.

Caelan loves Mommy so, so much.

...

That Night

POV: Marry El Rose

A thin mist began to hang over the deep forest. Carried by the wind, the mist drifted downward and settled upon a chubby man who was sleeping while leaning against a rotten log.

The lace collar of his clothes was torn and tattered, devoured by the forest. Creeping vines, mushrooms, and moss covered his plump body.

Yet the man remained still, unmoving, as if the world itself had already abandoned him.

A single rose stem lay upon his body. Its petals trembled as the night wind brushed against them.

One by one, the rose petals fell, then floated into the air before the man. They spiralled together, forming a small tornado. Then—

As the small vortex subsided, a woman in a rose-adorned dress emerged. She took three steps forward and stopped in front of the chubby man.

Her silver hair fluttered in the night wind. Her blue eyes stared coldly at him.

“You have touched my daughter. I will not allow you to sleep peacefully—”

Marry snapped her fingers. A thorn shot forth from the snap and pierced the chubby man’s neck.

Marry closed her eyes for a moment. Then her lips moved.

“[Blood Memory Reading]!”

Marry read the man’s memories of sin. She could hear every scream of the victims tormented by this tyrant.

“Milord… I beg you, my wife is pregnant and hasn’t eaten for three days—” pleaded a thin man.

“Smack!”

“I don’t care. You lowly commoner… ungrateful trash!” the Baron shouted, his fat hand reddened after slapping the man’s face.

“If you cannot pay your taxes, then you will work by cutting down forest trees with your own sweat!” the fat Baron sneered.

…

A few days later, the chubby Baron strolled leisurely along a rural road. His lace collar fluttered in the cool breeze of Rose Valley.

In his left hand, he carried a roasted pig’s leg. Behind him, dozens of knights in iron armour marched in neat formation. Their armour gleamed under the sunlight.

The Baron stopped before an open field. There, hundreds of wooden grave markers stood upon damp, green earth. Beneath each marker, mounds of loose soil rose high. Rose petals were scattered across the earthen graves.

Among those hundreds of markers stood one engraved with the name “Lisa.”

A man with messy black hair was clinging to that grave. Tears soaked his cheeks and fell onto the loose soil. He stood there in silence before whispering:

“My wife… I’m sorry—I failed to save you… h-hic…”

The thin man clutched the gravestone tightly.

The Baron sneered. He snorted and said,

“That man hasn’t paid his debt yet! Knights, drag him into the forest,” the Baron ordered, pointing at the man.

“Yes, milord,” replied the armoured knights obediently.

A burly knight grabbed the man. The man struggled desperately, clinging to the grave as if it were his other half.

“No! My wife… please, let me hold her. Why are you all so cruel—” the ragged man screamed hysterically.

“Bam! Aarrgghh—!”

The brutal knight struck him.

The man collapsed onto the ground, blood spilling from his mouth.

“Shut up, you lazy bastard!” the knight barked harshly.

The knight dragged him away. The man’s eyes shut as blood dripped onto the graveyard soil, tracing his path.

The Baron smiled.

“Hm… this roasted pork is delicious!”

He bit into the meat greedily.

“He’s a filthy bumpkin! But at least the pork he brought is very juicy!”

Marry opened her eyes. Her blue eyes grew colder—like winter ice.

“Baron Chciwy… ruler of Rose Valley before the fall of the world’s memory—”
Her blue eyes narrowed.

“You raised taxes beyond what is humanly tolerable, forcing the villagers to work all day until it caused mass starvation.”

“Pregnant mothers and children died. And you did not even care about their burials.”

Marry clenched her fist.

“You even continued to clear the forest for military projects. Your greed knew no bounds,” Marry pronounced her verdict.

“And most importantly… you allowed my daughter to touch a filthy body like yours.”

“The world has put you into an eternal sleep. But—”
Marry ground her teeth.

“I never forget. The Blood Rose Princess remembers every scream of the victims you wounded. Now you will pay for your sins.”

Marry snapped the fingers of her left hand and declared,

“[Blood Rose Manipulation: Blood Rose Tendrils]!”

“Crack…”

The moss-covered ground split apart. From the fissures, blood-red rose tendrils sprouted—thick, thorn-covered vines of deep crimson.

They grew, coiled, twisted, and swayed in the air like slick tentacles. They were monsters that devoured the bodies of sinners.

A blood-red rose bloomed. At the tips of the tendrils, it whispered like a starving beast.

Marry smiled faintly as she looked at the familiar monster. She gently stroked the blood rose’s petals. The creature purred like a cat enjoying its master’s touch.

“You’re hungry, aren’t you?” Marry said softly.

The rose monster snorted like an irritated horse denied its meal.

“Now you may eat again.”

Marry pointed at the chubby man and the knights sleeping on the mossy ground—tyrants and their followers whom the world had “put to sleep” after the Memory Artefact was destroyed seven years ago.

“Devour them as they devoured their victims,” Marry said coldly.

The blood rose tendrils nodded. They moved, dragging the sinners’ bodies one by one.

“Crunch… crack…”

The sound of bones snapping, blood being absorbed, flesh being chewed. Even their clothes and swords were devoured by the rose monster.

There was no disgust. No pity.

The blood rose tendrils consumed the sinners like predators devouring their prey. Each time it consumed a sinner's body, a new tendril grew from its main stem.

A thorned tendril pierced the baron’s bloated cheek. His face was filthy, his eyes closed, his lips curved into a smile—

Yet the tendril crushed his head like a serpent coiling around its prey, utterly indifferent to whatever dream the corrupt noble was having in his eternal sleep. Then—

“Crack—thud!”

His skull was shattered. Its contents spilt out. Crimson blood soaked the mossy ground.

The tendrils absorbed every drop of red, staining the earth. Then they dragged every fragment—bones, flesh, organs, even clothing—into the rose’s serrated maw, grinding like a mill.

It fed greedily, like a predator consuming carrion. Then, he dragged the remaining rusted bodies of the knights.

....

Marry watched the cleansing calmly. Her blue eyes remained cold as she allowed her familiar to erase every trace of the sinners—until nothing remained.

A short while later… the tyrant and his followers had become fertiliser. Marry approached her familiar.

Her hands were delicate, yet she showed no discomfort touching the blood rose’s petals. She smiled faintly before speaking her farewell.

“Return!”

The blood rose tendrils trembled. They withdrew into the ground. The cracks in the earth closed.

And when the last blood rose withered, the tendrils vanished from sight. The forest became clean—as if no massacre had ever taken place.

Marry smiled faintly as she gazed upon the restored forest. She walked slowly into the mist-shrouded night woods.

She disappeared… and returned to the embrace of her little daughter, who slept while hugging her rabbit doll.

After cleansing herself, Marry climbed onto her daughter’s soft bed. Her lips curved upward as she looked at her daughter’s tiny face, smiling in her sleep.

Marry kissed her daughter’s forehead and whispered:

“Thank you for being born for me, my love.”

Marry held her daughter close. Then she slowly closed her eyes and fell into a deep sleep—as if the peace of that night belonged only to her and her child.

And that night… once again, the Blood Rose judged a tyrant. Not for the world—but to protect the smile of her little daughter.

 

[MakBow]

Switching between first-person and third-person limited POV changes the tone, vibe, and overall narration. Unlike third-person limited POV, the POV can flexibly switch between characters within a scene based solely on gaze, emotional state, and the perspective of the conflict. Because third-person POV assumes the reader is a limited observer, you can observe the world/setting of the conflict objectively and limitedly.

However, first-person POV is difficult because the reader's position is the narrator (usually the protagonist or character directly involved in the conflict). This means assuming you must complete your scene from the first POV before switching to another POV. Otherwise, the transition will be abrupt and lose immersion. I'll give an example of switching from first to third POV as follows:

Spoiler: A Secret Letter For Big Sis Clara

Morning in Rose Valley…

POV: Caelan El Rose – Mommy’s Little Daughter

“Caelan, honey… wake up… it’s morning.”

I opened my eyes and saw Mommy gently shaking my body. Mommy was so, so beautiful. Her silver hair sparkled in the sunlight.

I sat up and rubbed my eyes.

“Good morning, Mom…” I said with a big yawn.

“Hurry and get changed and brush your teeth, honey. Breakfast is ready,” my mother said softly.

I stretched out both arms toward her, asking to be carried.

“Mom… help Caelan get dressed,” I whimpered.

Mommy smiled and let out a soft sigh.

“Caelan truly is Mommy’s little daughter…” Mommy pinched my cheek. It tickled. “Come here, honey.”

Mommy hugged me. I loved being hugged by Mommy.

It felt so warm. I love you, Mommy.

…

After Mommy helped me change my clothes and brush my teeth, she held my hand and guided me to the dining room.

I climbed onto the wooden chair. Mommy helped me up.

A warm, sweet, savory smell drifted into my nose. I turned toward the table. There were honey toast, sunny-side-up eggs, warm milk, and steamed vegetables waiting in front of me.

Drool accidentally dripped from my mouth. I grabbed the honey toast and ate it greedily.

Mommy’s cooking was so delicious. I wanted to eat Mommy’s cooking forever. Hehe…

“Honey… eat slowly! Your lips are messy,” Mommy said as she wiped my mouth.

“Thank you, Mom. Caelan loves Mommy,” I said, hugging her tightly.

Mommy gently patted my back. I tightened my hug. I liked it when Mommy patted my back.

I released my hug. Mommy smiled, sitting beside me with a white napkin in her hand.

I looked at the chair across the table. It was empty. Yesterday, Big Sister Clara always sat there, keeping me company during breakfast.

I looked up at Mommy’s face and puffed my cheeks.

“Mom… when is Big Sister Clara coming home?”

Mommy’s lips flattened. She patted my head.

“Honey… Big Sister Clara is still busy working in the capital,” Mommy said.

I lowered my head.

“But… Caelan wants to play with Big Sister Clara…” I whimpered.

Mommy stroked my silver hair. It felt so nice.

“If Caelan wants Big Sister Clara to come home soon, Caelan can send her a miss-you letter. Yesterday, Mommy taught Caelan how to write a letter, right?” Mommy said softly.

“A letter for Big Sister Clara?” I looked up at her gentle face.

“Yes, honey. Big Sister Clara loves sweet girls like Caelan the most. Mommy can help you write a letter if you want,” Mommy said.

“I want to write a miss-you letter for Big Sister Clara. But—” I shook my head. “Mommy can’t peek at Caelan’s letter, okay?”

“Why not, honey?” Mommy asked with a gentle smile.

“Caelan wants to make a secret letter for Big Sister Clara, Mom. If Mommy knows that I miss her sooo much and want to play with her again, then it won’t be a secret anymore.”

“This letter is a secret between Caelan and Big Sister Clara. Mommy can’t know,” I said, puffing my chest proudly.

Mommy covered her mouth. I heard a tiny little sound from her lips. Then she lowered her hand.

“Mommy won’t peek. The letter is a secret between you and Big Sister Clara,” Mommy said with a smile. “Finish your breakfast, honey.”

Mommy took a piece of toast with a fork, cut it with a knife, and ate slowly. I tugged at the hem of her dress.

Mommy stopped eating and turned to me.

“What is it, honey?”

“Mom, after Caelan finishes the letter for Big Sister Clara… how does Caelan send it?” I asked while touching my chin in confusion.

“Caelan doesn’t need to worry. Mommy will help send your letter using Mr Pigeon,” Mommy said.

“Mr Pigeon?”

“Yes, honey. The pigeon will take your letter to the capital and deliver it to Big Sister Clara,” Mommy said.

“Wow… Mr Pigeon is super nice. Thank you, Mom. Hehe…” I said, laughing happily.

“You’re welcome, honey.”

Mommy tried feeding me some soft-boiled spinach. I’d eaten it before, and it tasted flat—so yucky.

I covered my mouth with both hands. I didn’t want Mommy to feed me the yucky vegetables. I wanted honey toast.

“Open your mouth, honey,” Mommy said with a small sigh.

“Caelan doesn’t like boiled spinach, Mom. Caelan wants honey toast,” I whined, keeping my mouth shut tight.

Mommy lowered the spoon. Her lips curved downward.

“It’s okay if Caelan doesn’t like vegetables. But if you don’t eat your vegetables, you won’t grow up pretty like Mommy.”

My palms suddenly trembled. I lowered my hands.

“Caelan doesn’t like vegetables. But Caelan wants to grow up like Mommy,” I said, opening my mouth.

Mommy smiled and fed me. I chewed the wet vegetable. It still tasted bad. But Mommy gave me warm milk.

“Drink your milk first, honey,” Mommy said, handing me the cup.

“Caelan likes warm milk,” I said while drinking it. “Hehe… it’s delicious.”

“Good. Now finish the vegetables, okay?” Mommy coaxed.

“Okay, Mom,” I nodded obediently.

Mommy kept feeding me the soft vegetables until the plate was empty. Then she gently patted my head.

“Good girl. Caelan really is Mommy’s daughter,” she praised.

I loved being praised by Mommy. I wanted more praise. Hehe…

Mommy and I finished breakfast until all the plates and cups were empty. Mommy carried them away.

“Mommy will wash the dishes now, honey.” She smiled softly. “Do you want to write your letter alone or with Mommy’s help?”

“I can write it myself. Mommy just has to help send it with Mr Pigeon.”

“Have fun, honey,” Mommy said. “If you want paper and a pen, you can take them from Mommy’s locker.”

“Okay, Mom. I’ll write the letter. Don’t peek,” I said as I climbed down from my little chair.

Mommy just smiled and walked to the kitchen, carrying the dishes. I stood there, staring at her back. Then I headed to Mommy’s room.

I opened the door. It creaked. I stepped inside Mommy’s room.

I stood in front of her silver-colored desk. I looked at the top of the table. There was a photo of Mommy and me.

Mommy stood behind me in a crimson rose dress, hugging my neck. I wore a dress that matched hers.

I was holding a bouquet of roses. It was our New Year's photo. I loved that photo. I loved taking pictures with Mommy.

Caelan really, really loves Mommy. I want to take more pictures with Mommy.

I looked up at the ceiling while holding my chin. Not just with Mommy—I wanted to take pictures in the rose fields next year with Mommy and Big Sister Clara.

I couldn’t wait to take pictures together. Big Sister Clara was already my Big Sister after all. Hehe…

Then, I opened the drawer under the photo. Inside, I saw Mommy’s belongings. There were two silver necklaces. I picked one up… it had a beautiful rose-shaped pendant.

I put it back. Then, I took one of the notebooks. I opened it—still empty. I placed it on the table.

I squinted, peeking deeper into the drawer. Inside, there was a small silver box. I took it out.

I tried to open it. But—

“Ugh…”

The box was so hard to open. I pulled at the lid while biting my lip. The hinge creaked. Finally, it opened.

Inside the silver box were various hair-care tools: a silver comb, dried flower clips, and little ribbons that Mommy usually used to tie my hair.

I picked up the shiny silver comb. But when I lifted it, something fell onto the floor.

I placed the comb and the silver box on the table. Then, I picked up a piece of black-and-white ribbon from the floor.

I stared at the ribbon. I sniffed it… it smelled like wet soil mixed with a faint scent of roses.

I tugged and stretched the ribbon. It shrank and expanded like rubber. Then—

“Puff…”

A wisp of thin smoke drifted into the air. The smoke brushed my cheek. It felt wet and cold like morning fog.

“Tap… tap…”

I heard footsteps approaching. Then Mommy’s voice called out to me.

“Caelan, honey. What are you doing?” Mommy asked.

Mommy stood behind me. Her eyes widened slightly.

I tilted my head and showed her the black-and-white ribbon.

“Look, Mom. This ribbon can make fog.” I tugged it again. “The fog is really cold.”

Mommy knelt down and patted my head. I looked up and saw my reflection in Mommy’s blue eyes.

“Caelan, honey. That is Mommy’s secret item,” Mommy said softly. “You also want to make a secret letter for Big Sis Clara, right?”

“Yes, Mom,” I nodded.

“Would Caelan want Mommy peeking at your secret letter?”

“No, Mom. A secret letter can only be seen by Caelan and Big Sis Clara,” I said, shaking my head firmly.

“It’s the same for Mommy.” Mommy smiled. “That ribbon is Mommy’s secret item. Caelan should ask Mommy first before touching it. Do you understand?”

“I understand, Mom,” I said as I handed her the ribbon.

“Sorry, Mom. Caelan peeked at Mommy’s secret things,” I mumbled while lowering my head.

“As long as Caelan understands now, it’s alright, honey.” Mommy stroked my hair.

I looked up and watched her place the black-and-white ribbon and the silver comb back into the silver box.

Then, Mom gave me a notebook, eraser, pen, and crayons neatly wrapped in a pink pouch.

“Caelan can make your secret letter using this stationery,” Mommy said, passing them to me.

“Thank you, Mom,” I said, lifting the pink pouch into the air happily.

Mommy tidied up the silver table. She also straightened the position of the photo. Then, she took my hand.

Mommy walked toward the door. I glanced behind her and saw thin grey mist leaking from the drawer. The mist hovered in the air before fading.

I touched my head. What kind of mist was that?

“What is it, honey?”

Mommy called me. I looked up and saw her smiling at me.

“Nothing, Mom. Caelan can’t wait to write a secret letter for Big Sis Clara,” I said excitedly.

“Good. Caelan can write your letter in your room. Mommy will send it once you’re done,” Mommy said gently.

“Mommy is the best,” I said.

…

Mommy brought me to my room. Then she left me inside. I sat on my soft chair.

I swung my legs. I tore a sheet from the notebook. Then I picked up a pen.

“Big Sis Clara is busy… Caelan has to find a way to make Big Sis Clara remember to come home!” I muttered.

My hand began moving across the white paper. I wrote a secret letter for Big Sis Clara. Mommy would never know… Caelan misses her and wants to play with her again. Hehe…

I gripped my pen tightly. Oh no… the words were crooked. I erased them. Then I wrote again.

Suddenly, the afternoon arrived. I drew a big heart at the bottom of the letter. Then I colored it red with a crayon.

I wiped the sweat from my forehead. Finally, the secret letter for Big Sis Clara was done. Big Sis Clara would definitely be happy with Caelan’s letter.

“Caelan, honey… lunch is ready!”

Mommy’s voice suddenly called me. I folded the paper into a small square. I climbed down from my chair. Then, I headed to the dining room.

“Mom… Caelan’s secret letter for Big Sis Clara is finished,” I said, handing the little square to Mommy. “Don’t peek, okay?”

Mommy smiled and said, “Mommy won’t peek, honey. Go wash your hands first. After that, you can have lunch, alright?”

“Okay, Mom.”

I went to the bathroom to wash my hands. Then I returned to the dining room.

I climbed onto the wooden chair. Mommy served roasted beef. Yay!

“Let’s eat, honey.” Mommy sliced the meat thinly. Then she fed me. “Ah… open your mouth.”

“Mm… it’s so good, Mom,” I said, holding my cheeks.

That afternoon, I had lunch with Mommy again. Mommy fed me until I was full. Mommy truly was the best in the whole world. Hehe…

...

Three Days Later in the Capital…

POV: Detective Clara – Royal Detective

Clara walked down the corridor of the Rose Guard’s office. She passed by a blonde female staff member.

“Miss Clara… you’ve returned.” The woman smiled softly. “You cut your hair?”

Clara gave a small smile. “Yes. My hair was so long it would reach the floor if I didn’t tie it up. I cut it shorter so it wouldn’t hinder my mobility.”

“You look more charming this way, Miss.” She handed Clara a pink-colored letter. “This letter is for you, Miss Clara.”

“A letter for me?” Clara pointed at herself.

“Yes. It came from Rose Valley. Perhaps one of your admirers sent you a letter of praise,” the blonde explained.

“Thank you,” Clara said as she accepted it.

“I’ll take my leave. May you have a pleasant day, Miss Clara.” The woman bowed respectfully and walked away.

Clara stood still for a moment. Then she headed to her room. She sat quietly in her work chair. Before her, a stack of documents lay on the desk, waiting for her touch.

But Clara’s eyes remained on the pink letter. A faint scent of roses drifted from it. Clara smiled. She carefully broke the seal and took out the white paper.

She read it closely. Her green eyes grew misty.


The handwriting was messy. Rough strokes ran across the paper, as if written by someone who had only recently learned to write. Still, the words were clear enough to read without a magnifying glass. At the very end, a crayon-colored heart was drawn.

“Caelan…” she whispered. “Why are you so kind… so sweet…”

Clara pressed the letter to her chest for a moment. She could feel the lingering warmth left behind by the little silver-haired girl. She couldn’t suppress the smile that formed on her lips. She slipped the letter into her leather wallet.

Then, Clara stood. She walked toward the door and reached for the black coat hanging on the hook. Her hand grasped the doorknob—but stopped.

Not because of duty, not because of fear, but because… her heart had begun to miss her. Clara missed Caelan’s innocent laughter.

Amid her investigation and the dust of a past the world had chosen to forget, a new, pure intention bloomed in the heart of a royal investigator: to protect the laughter of a little girl.

“Caelan… I’ll come back. Wait for me—” she whispered.

Clara stepped outside and began her new journey.

Spoiler: Adventure of Little Daughter with Mommy

A Clear Sky in Rose Valley…

POV: Caelan El Rose – Mommy’s Little Daughter

“La-la… la-la-la…”

I sang along the road. Today, I’m going to pick mushrooms in the forest with Mommy.

This morning, Mommy woke me up. Mommy changed my clothes. Caelan loves Mommy so much.

Mommy prepared breakfast for me. Honey toast, eggs, milk—I like all of it. But I don’t like boiled spinach. It tastes bad.

Mommy fed me until I was full. Mommy also ate the leftover spinach I didn’t finish. Mommy is really nice. Hehe.

After breakfast, Mommy asked what I wanted for lunch. I wanted grilled mushrooms… Mommy hasn’t cooked mushrooms for me in a long time.

Mommy said the mushroom seller was sick. So I can’t eat mushrooms today. But I want mushrooms.

I puffed my cheeks, crossed my arms, and sat on the dining chair. I won’t leave this chair until Mommy listens to me.

Mommy smiled softly. Mommy stroked my hair. It felt so good. Hehe.

Mommy said she would look for mushrooms in the forest behind the village. Mommy sighed. Her lips curved downward.

Mommy said if she went to the forest, I would be alone at home. I shook my head. I want to go with Mommy.

Mommy didn’t say anything. Then Mommy looked at me.

I could see my reflection in Mommy’s blue eyes. Mommy is really pretty. Hehe.

Mommy said I could come, but I had to obey.

I nodded. I don’t want to be left behind; I want to go with Mommy.

Mommy allowed me to come. Yay! I get to go on an adventure to the forest with Mommy. I can’t wait. Hehe.

…

“La-la… la-la-la…”

“Trii-li… trii-li-lii… tii-ri-lii…”

The birds sounded so pretty. I turned to the trees on the right side of the road. Yellow birds were dancing on the branches.

“Mommy… look! Mrs Bird is singing with Caelan,” I said, pointing at them.

Mommy smiled and patted my head. I love it when Mommy pats my head.

“The birds like sweet girls like Caelan,” Mommy said gently.

“Hehe… Mrs Bird is really nice, Mom,” I said cheerfully while raising my hand.

Mommy and I watched Mrs Bird fly, then settle into her nest. Mrs Bird was warming her eggs.

Mommy held my hand and said, “Let’s continue our walk, honey.”

“Okay, Mom,” I said, gripping Mommy’s hand. Mommy’s hand is so soft.

I kept walking on the green ground. Wow, the forest is beautiful. Lots of tall trees, green grass. Colourful butterflies. But—

“Hah… hah…”

My chest hurt. My forehead was sweaty.

Mommy stopped. Her blue eyes widened when she saw I couldn’t walk anymore.

“Honey… if you’re tired… tell Mommy, okay?” Mommy lifted me into her arms. “Mommy told you to stay home.”

I shook my head. “No, Mom. Caelan wants to go with Mommy. Caelan doesn’t like being left alone,” I said with a pout.

Mommy gave a small smile. She pinched my cheek. It tickled so much.

“Caelan is Mommy’s daughter. But—” Mommy exhaled. “Caelan must not force herself. If you're tired, tell Mommy, understand?”

“I understand, Mom,” I said, nodding, then hugged Mommy.

Hugging Mommy feels so warm. Mommy really is the best in the whole world. Hehe.

Mommy carried me. Sometimes she stopped to wipe the sweat on my forehead.

I tugged the hem of Mommy’s dress. “Mom… when can we eat mushrooms?”

Mommy stroked my silver hair. “Be patient, honey. We’re almost there.”

I nodded. “Caelan will wait, Mom.”

“Good. Caelan is a good girl.”

Mommy kept walking. I looked up and saw the sky growing darker.

The trees were so tall. The sun was covered by the leaves.

But I could see between the leaves. Mr Sun was still peeking at me and following me.

Maybe Mr Sun is feeling shy. Mr Sun can follow me. Caelan doesn’t mind.

I looked behind us. My chin was on Mommy’s shoulder.

I saw Mr Sun following until the leaves covered him. Mr Sun couldn’t peek anymore.

“Mommy… the forest is dark. Mr Sun can’t peek at Caelan anymore,” I said, pointing up.

Mommy laughed softly. Then Mommy caressed my face.

“We’ve arrived, honey. Here, we can find Caelan’s favourite mushrooms,” Mommy said gently.

“Yay! Caelan wants to get down and help Mommy look for mushrooms. Can I, Mom?”

“Caelan is a good girl.” Mommy set me down. “But Caelan must promise Mommy. Don’t go far from Mommy.”

“And if Caelan gets tired, Caelan must tell Mommy, understood?”

“Caelan understands, Mom,” I said happily, hopping lightly.

My feet touched the mossy ground. I crouched down. My eyes spotted mushrooms.

They grew on a rotten log. I picked the mushroom and walked back to Mommy.

“Mom… can we eat this mushroom?” I asked, giving it to her.

Mommy took the mushroom. Her blue eyes studied it. Then Mommy sighed softly.

“Honey… this mushroom can’t be eaten,” Mommy said gently.

I lowered my head. “But Caelan wants to help Mommy…”

Mommy patted my head. “Don’t give up, honey. Caelan can look for more.”

Mommy stood still for a moment. Her lips curved into a smile.

“If Caelan has trouble finding mushrooms, you can let Mommy handle it.”

“No, Mom. Caelan wants to help,” I said, shaking my head.

“Careful, honey. Caelan can gather them first, and Mommy will check them later, okay?”

“Mommy really is the best,” I said eagerly.

I walked again around the fallen log. I’m going to find lots of mushrooms. I want Mommy to praise me. Hehe.

I walked between the tree trunks. Termites were lined up along the wood.

I wanted to play with Mr Termite. My finger was about to touch Mr Termite. But—

“No! Caelan can’t play yet. Caelan has to look for mushrooms first,” I said, pulling my hand back.

I stepped over the fallen logs. I paused for a moment.

“Why are there more and more logs?” I asked while touching my chin.

I walked again through the grass and rotten wood. I crouched down and saw lots of mushrooms. They looked like ears. The mushrooms grew on the wood.

I picked the mushrooms. I rolled up the hem of my clothes and placed the mushrooms inside the fabric.

I picked more and more ear mushrooms from the woods. Then, I walked past a log covered in bushes. Then—

“Wow… there’s a field in the middle of the forest,” I said in awe.

I saw lots of logs in the field. I walked toward the logs arranged like the books on my desk.

I crouched down and picked a big ear mushroom from the bush near the woods. But—

“Mmm… who is this uncle?” I asked while touching my head.

I saw an uncle sleeping on the ground. His clothes were dirty.

“Uncle… don’t sleep here. Mommy said sleeping outside can make you cough,” I said while poking the uncle’s cheek with my finger.

But the uncle kept sleeping. He didn’t want to listen to me.

"Crack…"

I heard a twig snap. I turned around and saw Mommy standing behind me.

“Mommy… look! This uncle is sleeping on the ground…” I said while pointing at him.

I looked at Mommy’s face. But Mommy wasn’t smiling like usual. Her blue eyes widened.

“Mommy?” I tilted my head.

“It’s alright, honey. Come here—” Suddenly, Mommy smiled softly again.

Mommy lifted me into her arms.

“Look, Mom! Caelan already collected mushrooms!” I said proudly, showing her the ear-shaped mushrooms in the fold of my clothes.

Mommy took one of my mushrooms. She examined it closely.

Then Mommy smiled faintly and stroked my hair.

“Good job. Caelan truly is Mommy’s daugher. These mushrooms can be made into barbecue, honey,” Mommy said gently.

“Hehe… Caelan can eat mushroom barbecue. Yay!” I said happily.

I laughed joyfully, being praised by Mommy. I really like it when Mommy praises me. Mommy, please praise Caelan even more. Hehe.

…

Mommy put my mushrooms into the red pouch.

Oh, right, I forgot. There was that strange uncle sleeping on the mossy ground.

“Mommy… who is that uncle?” I asked while pointing at him.

Mommy didn’t answer. I looked at Mommy’s face. Her lips curved downward.

“Mommy?” I asked, eyes wide.

Suddenly, Mommy shook her head, then kissed my forehead.

“Honey, that uncle is just resting. Don’t disturb him.”

“But Mom, you said if Caelan sleeps outside, Caelan will cough. That uncle might cough if he sleeps there, Mom,” I said curiously.

Mommy stroked my face and gave a small smile. “Honey, you walked in the forest earlier and got tired, didn’t you?”

“Yes, Mom. Caelan couldn’t walk anymore,” I said, nodding.

Mommy smiled. “Just like you, that uncle is tired too, honey.”

“Tired?” I turned my head left and right around the uncle.

There were more uncles sleeping on the ground. They wore dirty iron clothes.

These uncles must have pushed themselves too hard like Caelan, then fell asleep from exhaustion.

“Caelan understands, Mom.” I stopped and held my head. “Can Caelan help wake the uncles up, Mom?”

“No, honey. Don’t disturb them. Let them wake up on their own,” Mommy said gently.

“It’s already noon. Let’s go home, honey,” Mommy said.

“Okay, Mom,” I replied obediently.

But before we left, Mommy walked toward a chubby uncle who was sleeping, leaning against a log. Mommy reached into her dress pocket.

Suddenly, a single stem of a rose appeared.

Wow, Mommy can do magic tricks. Mommy is amazing. Hehe.

Mommy placed the rose stem on the uncle’s body. Mommy gave a faint smile as she looked at the uncle sleeping peacefully on the ground.

“Let’s continue our walk, honey.” Mommy smiled softly. “Caelan can’t wait to eat mushroom barbecue, right?”

“Yes, Mom. Caelan wants to eat Mommy’s mushroom barbecue.” I tugged the edge of Mommy’s dress. “Let’s go home, Mom. Caelan is hungry.”

Mommy chuckled softly and kissed my cheek. “Caelan truly is a sweet girl. Say goodbye to the uncles, honey.”

“Goodbye, uncles.”

Mommy then carried me in her arms, and we went home.

That evening, Mommy made me delicious mushroom barbecue. Mommy really is the best in the whole world.

Caelan loves Mommy so, so much.

...

That Night

POV: Marry El Rose

A thin mist began to hang over the deep forest. Carried by the wind, the mist drifted downward and settled upon a chubby man who was sleeping while leaning against a rotten log.

The lace collar of his clothes was torn and tattered, devoured by the forest. Creeping vines, mushrooms, and moss covered his plump body.

Yet the man remained still, unmoving, as if the world itself had already abandoned him.

A single rose stem lay upon his body. Its petals trembled as the night wind brushed against them.

One by one, the rose petals fell, then floated into the air before the man. They spiralled together, forming a small tornado. Then—

As the small vortex subsided, a woman in a rose-adorned dress emerged. She took three steps forward and stopped in front of the chubby man.

Her silver hair fluttered in the night wind. Her blue eyes stared coldly at him.

“You have touched my daughter. I will not allow you to sleep peacefully—”

Marry snapped her fingers. A thorn shot forth from the snap and pierced the chubby man’s neck.

Marry closed her eyes for a moment. Then her lips moved.

“[Blood Memory Reading]!”

Marry read the man’s memories of sin. She could hear every scream of the victims tormented by this tyrant.

“Milord… I beg you, my wife is pregnant and hasn’t eaten for three days—” pleaded a thin man.

“Smack!”

“I don’t care. You lowly commoner… ungrateful trash!” the Baron shouted, his fat hand reddened after slapping the man’s face.

“If you cannot pay your taxes, then you will work by cutting down forest trees with your own sweat!” the fat Baron sneered.

…

A few days later, the chubby Baron strolled leisurely along a rural road. His lace collar fluttered in the cool breeze of Rose Valley.

In his left hand, he carried a roasted pig’s leg. Behind him, dozens of knights in iron armour marched in neat formation. Their armour gleamed under the sunlight.

The Baron stopped before an open field. There, hundreds of wooden grave markers stood upon damp, green earth. Beneath each marker, mounds of loose soil rose high. Rose petals were scattered across the earthen graves.

Among those hundreds of markers stood one engraved with the name “Lisa.”

A man with messy black hair was clinging to that grave. Tears soaked his cheeks and fell onto the loose soil. He stood there in silence before whispering:

“My wife… I’m sorry—I failed to save you… h-hic…”

The thin man clutched the gravestone tightly.

The Baron sneered. He snorted and said,

“That man hasn’t paid his debt yet! Knights, drag him into the forest,” the Baron ordered, pointing at the man.

“Yes, milord,” replied the armoured knights obediently.

A burly knight grabbed the man. The man struggled desperately, clinging to the grave as if it were his other half.

“No! My wife… please, let me hold her. Why are you all so cruel—” the ragged man screamed hysterically.

“Bam! Aarrgghh—!”

The brutal knight struck him.

The man collapsed onto the ground, blood spilling from his mouth.

“Shut up, you lazy bastard!” the knight barked harshly.

The knight dragged him away. The man’s eyes shut as blood dripped onto the graveyard soil, tracing his path.

The Baron smiled.

“Hm… this roasted pork is delicious!”

He bit into the meat greedily.

“He’s a filthy bumpkin! But at least the pork he brought is very juicy!”

Marry opened her eyes. Her blue eyes grew colder—like winter ice.

“Baron Chciwy… ruler of Rose Valley before the fall of the world’s memory—”
Her blue eyes narrowed.

“You raised taxes beyond what is humanly tolerable, forcing the villagers to work all day until it caused mass starvation.”

“Pregnant mothers and children died. And you did not even care about their burials.”

Marry clenched her fist.

“You even continued to clear the forest for military projects. Your greed knew no bounds,” Marry pronounced her verdict.

“And most importantly… you allowed my daughter to touch a filthy body like yours.”

“The world has put you into an eternal sleep. But—”
Marry ground her teeth.

“I never forget. The Blood Rose Princess remembers every scream of the victims you wounded. Now you will pay for your sins.”

Marry snapped the fingers of her left hand and declared,

“[Blood Rose Manipulation: Blood Rose Tendrils]!”

“Crack…”

The moss-covered ground split apart. From the fissures, blood-red rose tendrils sprouted—thick, thorn-covered vines of deep crimson.

They grew, coiled, twisted, and swayed in the air like slick tentacles. They were monsters that devoured the bodies of sinners.

A blood-red rose bloomed. At the tips of the tendrils, it whispered like a starving beast.

Marry smiled faintly as she looked at the familiar monster. She gently stroked the blood rose’s petals. The creature purred like a cat enjoying its master’s touch.

“You’re hungry, aren’t you?” Marry said softly.

The rose monster snorted like an irritated horse denied its meal.

“Now you may eat again.”

Marry pointed at the chubby man and the knights sleeping on the mossy ground—tyrants and their followers whom the world had “put to sleep” after the Memory Artefact was destroyed seven years ago.

“Devour them as they devoured their victims,” Marry said coldly.

The blood rose tendrils nodded. They moved, dragging the sinners’ bodies one by one.

“Crunch… crack…”

The sound of bones snapping, blood being absorbed, flesh being chewed. Even their clothes and swords were devoured by the rose monster.

There was no disgust. No pity.

The blood rose tendrils consumed the sinners like predators devouring their prey. Each time it consumed a sinner's body, a new tendril grew from its main stem.

A thorned tendril pierced the baron’s bloated cheek. His face was filthy, his eyes closed, his lips curved into a smile—

Yet the tendril crushed his head like a serpent coiling around its prey, utterly indifferent to whatever dream the corrupt noble was having in his eternal sleep. Then—

“Crack—thud!”

His skull was shattered. Its contents spilt out. Crimson blood soaked the mossy ground.

The tendrils absorbed every drop of red, staining the earth. Then they dragged every fragment—bones, flesh, organs, even clothing—into the rose’s serrated maw, grinding like a mill.

It fed greedily, like a predator consuming carrion. Then, he dragged the remaining rusted bodies of the knights.

....

Marry watched the cleansing calmly. Her blue eyes remained cold as she allowed her familiar to erase every trace of the sinners—until nothing remained.

A short while later… the tyrant and his followers had become fertiliser. Marry approached her familiar.

Her hands were delicate, yet she showed no discomfort touching the blood rose’s petals. She smiled faintly before speaking her farewell.

“Return!”

The blood rose tendrils trembled. They withdrew into the ground. The cracks in the earth closed.

And when the last blood rose withered, the tendrils vanished from sight. The forest became clean—as if no massacre had ever taken place.

Marry smiled faintly as she gazed upon the restored forest. She walked slowly into the mist-shrouded night woods.

She disappeared… and returned to the embrace of her little daughter, who slept while hugging her rabbit doll.

After cleansing herself, Marry climbed onto her daughter’s soft bed. Her lips curved upward as she looked at her daughter’s tiny face, smiling in her sleep.

Marry kissed her daughter’s forehead and whispered:

“Thank you for being born for me, my love.”

Marry held her daughter close. Then she slowly closed her eyes and fell into a deep sleep—as if the peace of that night belonged only to her and her child.

And that night… once again, the Blood Rose judged a tyrant. Not for the world—but to protect the smile of her little daughter.

I often use this: ◇ ◇ ◇, to signal that I'm changing perspectives. Would that ruin immrsation?
I use this because I was reading a novel and it also used it, which for me, didn't ruin anything.

 

[Eldoria]

I often use this: ◇ ◇ ◇, to signal that I'm changing perspectives. Would that ruin immrsation?
I use this because I was reading a novel and it also used it, which for me, didn't ruin anything.

It depends on how you cut the scenes. The "-" or "*" are simply narrative separators. However, some platforms (e.g., Inkitt) don't recommend (or discourage) using these separators because they can disrupt the narrative tone.

 

[MakBow]

It depends on how you cut the scenes. The "-" or "*" are simply narrative separators. However, some platforms (e.g., Inkitt) don't recommend (or discourage) using these separators because they can disrupt the narrative tone.

Thanks for the input.

What would you consider to be the best time to change the narrative tone? This is something I want to practice since I'm terrible with third-person perspective for long term, I can only do it short-term.
(Like an important moment)

I'm far better at first person since it allows me to feel like I'm the character, which immerses me and allows me to more accurately describe the situation or how a character feels, based on who I'm acting in my head.

 

[Eldoria]

What would you consider to be the best time to change the narrative tone?

...first-person POV is difficult because the reader's position is the narrator (usually the protagonist or character directly involved in the conflict). This means assuming you must complete your scene from the first POV before switching to another POV. Otherwise, the transition will be abrupt and lose immersion.

 

[CharlesEBrown]

It really depends on the type of story.
In a comedy, you can just do it.
There was a "round robin" novel in the 90s called "The Red Tape Wars" where a few chapters were first person, most were third, and at least one addressed the reader ("Oh look, you've gone and let Jack [Chalker, one of the writers... amusingly, I'm pretty sure HE wrote the chapter after another one of the writers did it] do his signature body-swapping move again!"
In the novel Howling Mad, Peter David had some chapters in third person, and some in first from the perspective of some of the characters (alternating between the male lead, the female lead and the guy interviewing them). But again, this is a comedy.
My wife was listening to an audio novel (read by an AI voice that would have sounded incredibly sexy if it hadn't also sounded bored out of its mind reading this drivel) that was a weird romance thing where each chapter had a sub-heading of "Male Lead POV" and "Female Lead POV" (and I suspect was the main reason they no longer allow the use of "POV" for "Point of View" on Pocket FM - it got tedious!).
In my work in progress here, True Blue, I have a narrator for the entire work, who also steps in at each new story for a bit to chat with the reader, before shifting to the point of view of the (initial) main narrator. If I get back to it. the plan is to have the third story be a short told by another character in her own voice just listing her origins and the event that led her to meeting the MC.
If I ever get back to the Jack Diamond stories, and get to Book Four, well, Jack spends most of it in a coma, and two of his support characters take turns narrating chapters until the finale where (probably not a spoiler since the series is supposed to have at least five books) Jack returns and takes over. Each chapter will begin with the current narrator doing something to identify themself (by name the first time,, by a reference to an earlier chapter or some "signature comment" after that).

 

[TinaMigarlo]

I would only shift from 1st to 3rd with a chapter ending/beginning... and hold it through thechapter. With a scene change, it will not need explaining. once i just recently did my first one, its a noticable gear change with chapters when it happens.

 

[WhimsicalLantern]

Agreed, I'd only do it at a natural break like a chapter -- and very often I see people call out the new character's name.


Chapter 3:
Antonio:

I started thinking to myself, who am I really?

 

[TinaMigarlo]

now that I did it once, and I'm liking it more and more, I can think back and see it was done in a lot of paperbacks I read in my lifetime. Its useful I think for the breaking up of the linear story. Its a gear changfe, in shifting gears on a vehiclke. I relate a lot of writing to composing music. Here, I see it as a chord change, or even shifting theme/motif and back. I think as I get used to it, maybe I can make more effective use of it. It might be interesting to have a small "break things up" chapter (like middle eight in musc) where the shop owner sees the character come in, and you get to see everything from an outsider's point of view. I think its just another tool in the toolbox, really. But I like it, I do. And like anmy tool, I should get better with it in my hands over time.

 

[Yubel]

I think it depends on the pace of the story and the purpose of shifting to that particular point of view. Since the novel I used to write involve many battles, I often used the first-person perspective to describe and tell the reader what is going on but not let them have the full grab of information to ignite their interest. Then when the climax arrives, the turning point of the battle happened, I switch to either the third-person perspective or the first-person perspective of the commanding character to answer the reader build up questions.

 

[Joyager2]

Can I ask why you're so invested in using first person if you're interested in going beyond the limited point of view it offers? The strength of utilizing a tool like first person (as opposed to third person limited) is to convey a particular perspective, with all the incorrect, biased, and partially-constructed understandings of reality that your narrator has baked-in. If you swap to another character's point of view, it kind of undermines the use of first person at all.