The Spirits Within

When a Medical student awakens in an infant's body in the deadly Hidden Mist Village, he knows surviving will require more than just his memories of a past life. In a world where children are forced to kill each other and bloodline abilities mark their wielders for death, Ren must carefully balance hiding his true potential while gathering enough strength to change the village's dark future. As Kirigakure descends into an era of unprecedented brutality, this reincarnated soul will discover that the deadliest technique isn't found in forbidden scrolls - it's knowing exactly when to reveal your true power. Fair Warning: This is a slow-burn story - no overpowered MC from the start Power progression is realistic and earned through years of dedicated training Contains graphic violence and death Story builds gradually with careful character and plot development What to Expect: Detailed training arcs and power progression Clever manipulation of future events using foreknowledge Original story arcs and character development [This novel is for readers who enjoy: Smart protagonists who rely on wit over raw power Realistic skill progression and strategic combat Deep world-building and political intrigue A fresh perspective on the Naruto universe]

Sixteen-year-old Nova has always felt different, but she never imagined how deeply those differences ran. Adopted as a baby, Nova believed she was a normal girl living a normal life. But when strange marks begin to appear on her skin and an otherworldly strength stirs within her, Nova’s world shatters. During a family trip to the lake, the unimaginable happens—Nova undergoes a violent transformation, her body turning into something monstrous. The beast she becomes is unstoppable, and in the chaos, she accidentally kills the only people who ever loved her. Consumed by guilt and horror, Nova flees into the night, leaving everything behind. Nova must navigate the harsh realities of survival while grappling with the truth about who—and what—she is. As she searches for answers, Nova begins to unravel the mysteries of her past and the ancient power coursing through her veins. But learning to control her inner beast may come at a price, and she will have to decide whether to embrace the wild within or let it consume her completely. A tale of transformation, survival, and self-discovery, The Wild Within is a gripping blend of romance, action, and adventure that delves into the darkness of human and inhuman nature.

A war between four kingdoms was settled when an unconquered land was discovered to keep the peace, a treaty was agreed upon. Monare was unfortunate to be from that land, now in a new land as a slave to a young lady and with a secret he needs to keep to survive. Now shackled and plotting for discovery. The story of Monare is a story of moving from the past mistakes that make you a slave. This story has sexual exploration, which is inspired by Spartacus and Gladiator. It is also a mix of historical fiction and fantasy into one story. warning: Topics of abuse, exploitation and other atrocities will be explored as some of it is part of the overall plot of our main characters journey toward self-discovery.

C'est l'histoire d'un jeune garçon âgé de 15 ans, Saku Hanagaku dans le temps du Moyen-âge en l'an 2879. Ce monde est remplie de magie et de légende mais il est tout de même cruel. L'une des plus grandes guerres éclata en 2859, opposant trois clans : Humain, Anges et Démon. La fin de cette guerre a été provoqué par un cataclysme majeur lancée par une personne non définit. Quand la guerre s'est finit tout le monde partaient à la recherche de cette personne mystérieuse pour gagner le rang de "Dieux" pour honorer son clan. Notre Héro, lui a pour rêve de tuer tout les démons et être assez puissant pour pour survivre dans ce monde imprégné de douleur.. Arrivera t-il a réaliser son rêve ? Réussir à être assez puissant ? Vous le serez en lisant l'Histoire : Demon Spirit

[Beast Mastery][Summoning][Pets][Evolution][Development] Demon, Savage, Nether, Damnation, Mechanism, Soldier, Medicine, Abnormal, Witch, Immortal, Ferocious... This world is a world of monsters, filled with countless diverse "Fond Spirits". But in this world, humans also wield the power of "occupation classes". Once awakened, they can have Contract Imprints, allowing them to form contracts with the monsters, creating entirely new bonds. [For Instance] ♦F-level Occupation Class "Manicurist"- helps the Fond Spirits trim their claws, making them beautiful, or sharper. ♦E-level Occupation Class "Hunter"- marks and chases, closely collaborating with the Fond Spirits, the most classic hunting occupation class. ♦C-level Occupation Class "Puppeteer"- manipulates Fond Spirits at crucial moments, making their strikes more precise and powerful. ♦B-level Occupation Class "Midwife"- assists pregnant Fond Spirits with health checkups, giving random blessing effects to the newborns. ♦B-level Occupation Class "Mechanic"- under the right conditions, modifies the Fond Spirits, turning them into semi-mechanical beings. ♦A-level Occupation Class "Dragon Knight"- rides dragon-type Fond Spirits into battle. Man and dragon unite, becoming invincible. ♦S-level Occupation Class "Arch Warlock"- intensifies the elemental properties of Contracted Fond Spirits and seals their skills in advance to execute forbidden spells for the second time. ... ♦C-level Occupation Class "Fitness Trainer"... ♦D-level Occupation Class "Flame Thief"... ♦A-level Occupation Class "Mysterious Merchant"... ♦B-level Occupation Class "Gourmet"... ♦Special Occupation Class "Brave"... ... (I already have a completed work of 3 million characters titled "Master of Pets". "The Rising of the Fond Spirits" is my second work, a Beast Mastery tale with entirely original settings, you're welcome to try it out!)

After being whisked away into another world, from one cruel existence to another, Sylvia finds herself in front of a demon lord. He who only has one command for her. Be my bride.

I hesitated at first, but there was something about the way Rakan listened—intently and without judgment—that made me feel safe. I opened up about my fears and insecurities, revealing vulnerabilities I had kept hidden for so long. To my surprise, Rakan responded with genuine kindness and empathy. He shared his own struggles, the burdens he carried, and I realized that beneath his sharp precision and unwavering determination, there was a depth to him that I had not fully seen before. The island spirits whispered softly around us, their melodic voices echoing the unspoken feelings between us. As we continued to talk, I felt a warmth growing in my heart, an admiration that went beyond mere friendship. Rakan's words were like a balm, soothing my doubts and fears, and I began to see him in a new light. The night progressed, and we sat side by side, gazing at the stars reflected in the pond. Our hands brushed against each other, and I felt a spark—a silent understanding that words could not capture. In that moment, I knew that my feelings for Rakan had deepened, and that our bond had grown stronger. As we prepared to continue our journey, I carried this newfound affection with me, knowing that whatever challenges lay ahead, we would face them together. United by our purpose and the unbreakable bond that now included the whispers of the heart.

So who knows what love actually is and who knows who can become lovers? Anabel and Allistar have known each other for millennia. They began as humans. She became a spirit mage and Alchemist and he became a Lich mage and weather warlock. But what becomes of love when ambition is involved? Can you forgive the father of your children when he can use one of them to obtain a dream? Do you protect your children or love your soulmate? And is change truly possible when ambition is involved? A love story is about trial and tribulation, mistakes and successes. Both Anabel and Allistar want happiness for the other. They want their children to be safe, happy, and successful. How would you balance love with responsibility? And can a family that loves together truly stay together?

A school known for its talent in the spiritual arts imprinted itself onto this world but not everything is so sunshine and rainbows as they have their own dark secrets.

Humanity was destroyed at the hands of gods. Every human died or should have died. One survived. One human who did not care for other humans and did not want revenge survived the attack. He became something known as a Harbinger. Harbingers are beings that are beyond normal understanding. Even the gods cannot control them. Clive Belmont, a teenager who survived the attack of the gods, set out on a journey to find peace and unravel the mystery of the System that made him a Harbinger. His journey would be long but as a Harbinger, he will not face many problems. He will harvest and become stronger in order to break free from the shackles of System and control the entire System.

In a world where creatures known as Spirit beasts tear anything they see apart, from woman and men to children. An association is made to deal with this phenomenon called the SHA "Spirit Hunters Association, our protagonist Ao Hinote, is a below average, weak 15-year-old demi-human with slightly above average intelligence who always dreamed to become a hunter as a child. He ended up applying to attend a school made for creating Spirit Hunters, but it seems there is far more to this school and the association than the kingdom led on. Will Ao be able to become strong enough to join the school, will his intelligence be enough to help him pass? What else is there to the school that the kingdom isn't telling him?

The story takes place in a world where humanity faces relentless attacks from spirits, and an organization known as the Spirit Hunters Organization (SHO) is tasked with defending humanity. The story follows Noah, an orphan who possesses extraordinary spirit-hunting abilities. After enrolling in the SHO, he quickly rises through the ranks to become a Special Grade hunter. Now, Noah finds himself assigned to unit SG-04, a specialized team consisting of four SPECIAL GRADE hunters.

In Future, an untraceable comet struck Earth, wiping out 30% of humanity and leaving the world in ruins. From the ashes, select survivors, known as Megas, awakened with extraordinary powers. As society rebuilt, governments and private guilds rose to maintain order, battling rogue Megas and dark forces seeking domination. Amid this chaos stands an ordinary man, unaware of the extraordinary destiny that awaits him. As alliances form and wars erupt, his secrets could change everything. In a world divided by power, survival is only the beginning.

Within the darkness, Light is born. from hardships, humans thrive. from the crisis, Heroes appear. with different views and different opinions. everyone is free. but only strength bring freedom. What Differentiate between Evil and good is a thin line. What is Evil and what is good. watch how Wu Qin shows his brilliance in all the Nine Realms. beauties shall be his mere slaves, his divine third eye shall penetrate ten thousand worlds to watch over the Ultimate spirit realm. ------- Mystery Hello, Author's here; to our biggest fans and tuned readers. you can support us with anything you can. here are some useful methods you can use to support us. 1- use your Energy stones to show us your support. 2- give away a coffee cup here; http://ko-fi.com/mystry Again. this is only a way of showing your support we are not seeking money, your love and care for our small Story. Every 1.000 ES. there will be a free bonus chapter. when we are highly Ranked There will be a mass release and the number of chapters is going to be scary :D. You can send any special fan art you created with your wonderful imagination for our story. if your fan art gains 5 stars on every month release event you will receive a full +3 chapters and a chance to win our first art book. Enjoy and have fun, don't forget to comment on every chapter. we like to hear your opinion on everything. Special always on events; 1- Writing mistakes; if you can gather 1.000 mistakes within the first 100 chapters. then please send a list of the mistakes to us at; sfsfsfg010@gmail.com. 2- at the end of every month there will be a Fan art competition on discord with the three top Fan art we choose from your fan art. ------------------ Discord channel ; https://discord.gg/w69t7G ----------------- This story may contain +18 scenes and adult content, it's highly not recommended for the underage or children, be safe and have fun reading. For the first time. here you can visit our youtube Voice chance to listen to our awesome storyteller. Have fun. Youtube Link; Wait till we reach chapter 100 :/

Jayden lived a life of struggle—barely scraping by, juggling odd jobs, and dreaming of something more. But when he stumbles upon a mysterious glowing orb, his life takes a turn he could have never imagined. Suddenly, he’s faster, stronger, and sharper than ever before. Yet the changes bring more questions than answers, and a strange voice warns him that power without purpose can be a curse. As Jayden learns to navigate his new abilities, he encounters challenges that test his morals, strength, and courage. Along the way, he meets someone who isn’t drawn to his newfound power but to the person he’s always been—a woman willing to trust him before she loves him. With the weight of his mysterious gift on his shoulders and the chance for love within reach, Jayden must uncover the secrets of the system hidden within him and decide what kind of man he wants to become. Can he rise above his struggles to create the life he’s always dreamed of, or will the power consume him before he finds his true purposes.

"Kaito, a high school student, suffers physical and emotional abuse at the hands of his father. One day, he meets Ryota, a mysterious and skilled martial artist who offers to teach Kaito how to fight and protect himself. As Kaito trains and grows stronger, he discovers a dark secret about his family's past and the true reason behind his father's cruelty. With the help of Ryota and new friends, Kaito must confront his inner demons and the evil forces that have haunted his family for generations. Will he find the strength to break free from his painful past and forge a new future?"

“Lila, will you stop looking like someone dragged you to the funeral of a relative?” Diana shouted over the music, pulling me forward by the wrist. "It's a club! You're supposed to have fun, get a life!" Fun of course, I should get much of it as much as I want. It's true. The fun was finding your trusted boyfriend of three years in bed with no other but your best friend. The pleasure was being humiliated and left alone with the pieces of your self-esteem shattered before you, with no attempt of repair. I didn't want to be here, but Diana insisted and I was too numb to argue or go against her wish. "I'm not sure that's a good idea," I said, rising a little on my heels. "Oh, don't complain anymore," Diana cried, pouring a funny looking cocktail into her hand. Her lipstick spread in a sly smile. "Drink enough of this. You need much of it to relax." I looked at the glass like a time bomb, everything about it looked suspicious. "I don't drink." "There's always a first time, you'll drink tonight." Diana clinked her glass with mine. "Trust me, one sip won't kill you." I hesitated, but the words "trust me" did something funny to my pride. I didn't want her to think I was weak, not capable of making choices, not after everything I'd been through. So I took a sip. The bitterness from a single sip burned my throat and I grimaced, but Diana was already putting another glass in my hand. "Come on baby girl!" she shouted at me. On the third glass, the room began to tilt dangerously. The lights dimmed and my thoughts became unclear, unhealthy and shattered. "Diana," I managed to murmur, trying to calm every bit of myself down. "I think I probably should sit for a moment..." "Okay, then!" she interrupted, leading me towards a group of men seated in a VIP area enclosed by ropes. "Come on, sister, let's meet real men that make things happen. Forget about that cheating loser of yours! It's time to wine and dine with the happening men." "Wait, I don't...I can't..." I stammered as my legs flopped under me. Before I knew it, a man smelling of sweet cologne pulled me into his hairy lap. "Hey, pretty girl," he said, his smile stretching too far. I tried to pull away, but my arms felt like jelly. "No, I don't...I can't..." "Relax," he said, running his rough hand up my thigh. "Keep your silly hands off me!" I tried to scream with my whole strength, but it was weak. Panic gripped my throat. And then, suddenly, I was pulled to my feet miraculously. "What are you planning to do to her?" a cold, loud voice cut through the chaos. I closed my eyes, my vision flickering, until my gaze landed on the man standing before me. He was tall, with a jaw so sharp it could cut glass and eyes the color of ice. His tailored suit clung to him like a second skin, and his presence was so imposing that the fat man retreated. Heartbroken after discovering her boyfriend's infidelity, Lila Monroe is pushed into a one-night stand by her jealous step-sister, Diana. Unknowingly, she ends up in the bed of billionaire Sebastian Knight, instead of a random guy as planned by Diana. Their paths cross again months later, when Lila is forced to marry Sebastian to protect her mother's political image. To complicate matters, Sebastian's brother, Ethan, who Lila had a childhood crush on, lives in the same house and rekindles old feelings. Torn between two brothers, Lila struggles to overcome the complexities of love, betrayal, and family rivalry. As enemies close in and secrets are revealed, Lila must choose between the man who challenges her and the one who still make feel safe.

Do you believe in magic? The answer of most will be no. But what if magic DID exsist? To some, it might just be your typical average story. But this has an element of unpredictability mixed in between. Diane Lewis was a normal teenage girl from an aristocratic family. But since she met HIM, her view of the world turned upside down. "How is that even possible?" She asked, mouth agape. He smiled at her, showing a perfect set of snow-white teeth. "With magic, anything is possible." Horn your skills and train your ability. "I will protect you." She said, with a determined gaze. "You can Barely even protect yourself. You are not strong enough." He retorted. "Then, just wait for Me to get stronger." She said, with a smile. "You have no right to be here. We cut ties remember?" He said, glaring at her fiercely. "I am not here for you. I am here for the family. I still have people I treasure here. So let me through or else..." She completed her statement by majestically drawing out her sword. So many secrets lay hidden. Injustice in the form of justice. Lies, fabricated to become truth. Deception roams around, unleashed. And a Naive girl, who had never seen the shadow that lurked around in the abyss. Will she Survive? Will she fail? It is up to you to find out.

ever wonder what happens after someone dies well here's what happens note: this is just a story to express my little world and It takes content from jjk and other anime show but the story is my own I don't own jjk and but the ideas inspired are my own

"Why don't skeletons fight each other?" She turned to look at him, her eye brows furrowed. "How does this have anything to do with the dire situation we are in?" She gripped her scythe, tightly. Fear still gripping her. He kept on talking as if he didn't hear her. "Because they don't have guts." Before bursting into one insane laughter that filled her with warmth. Fear slowly dissolving, she joined to. Few moments after the laughter died. "Your joke... It wasn't funny." His eyes widened, comically holding his chest in hurt. "Ouch!" Before flashing a hot crazy grin. "Well that wasn't the purpose in the first place though it wouldn't hurt if it was funny. Now you are much relaxed, don't you agree?" Funnily enough she was. They both stared down at the ruins. "Our inner monsters make excellent dance partners once you learn to lead." He started again this time his voice much solemn. "But what if it refuses?" She closed her eyes. Thinking about it was stressful. "Tame him with kindness or bribe it with chocolate it works with mine... Then you'll dance in the battlefield like a battle fiend you are meant to be like everyone's watching and the monster inside you is your hypeman. Whatever works." ------------------------------------------------- A suicidal psychotic girl scarred by the loss of her childhood best friend and mother which no one believed existed transmigrated into a very unusual world. On waking up in her new body she discovers that her previous body owner didn't make life any easier for her. Especially when she killed The Royal Sixth Princess of Alvaron. And well killed herself. Amanise is caught in a murder case she didn't actually do. And why everything seems 'normal' in the beginning she soon discovers that real things lurk in the dark. And it wasn't her laundry pile under her bed. ---------------------------------------------------- Hi am XR, A new author with my first book. English isn't my strong suit but I will make the read enjoyable. Though it's new, Don't miss out on the ride is gonna be amazing. THE BOOK COVER IS MINE. Peace.

The God of Magic stopped blessing his believers. The Tower of Magic, where the mages gathered and worshiped him was destroyed. Magic Fell. The surviving Mages were looked down upon by the rest of the world. Normal Mages, that is. The Mages from the Strongest Magic Family, the Vesta Family, were an exception. For 5000 years, the Vesta Family continued to produce exceptional Mages that were strong enough to resist other forces which came after their family heritage and treasures even without the Blessing of the God of Magic. Now, however, the Vesta Family found themselves in a difficult situation where they didn’t have a single capable heir. That was until, Christopher Davis, an underworld Gang Leader, transmigrates into the body of Vaan Astra Vesta, a well-known pushover and the ‘waste’ of the Vesta Family. Christopher, now Vaan, soon realized that he could see otherworldly magic spirits with knowledge so vast that the Magic books that the Vesta Family treasured for 5000 years were nothing in comparison. That, combined with Vaan’s own God-like Talent, The ‘Hope’ was born. A prodigy strong enough to not only protect the Vesta Family and its treasures, A prodigy who will restore Magic to its former glory was born. “Haa!? Who da fuck said a Mage can’t use fists!? That crab-like face of yours, I’ll punch it till it is deformed into something better looking!” And of course, Christopher’s gangster-like tendencies won’t just disappear. ... Cover: AI-Generated (Plus little editing) ... Discord: https://discord.gg/qZHRTHGdZG If the link does not work for some reason, DM me: sleepdeprivedsloth

In the chilling depths of despair, Wan, a troubled teenager, finds himself trapped in a nightmarish cycle of depression that leads him to a harrowing decision—suicide. However, instead of finding peace, his attempt brings him back from the brink, resurrected but with a sinister twist: hell now resides within his mind. As Wan struggles to adjust to his new reality, he discovers that each time he falls asleep, he is plunged into a terrifying chapter of his own personal hell. These dreams manifest as twisted, nightmarish landscapes filled with grotesque apparitions that embody his deepest fears and regrets. The boundaries of his mind dissolve into a horrifying labyrinth, where he confronts haunting memories, vengeful spirits, and the darkness that once consumed him. Each encounter pulls him deeper into madness, revealing the terrifying consequences of his actions and the monstrous aspects of his psyche. With every sleepless night, Wan grapples with malevolent forces that threaten to unravel him completely. Yet, amidst the chaos, a flicker of hope ignites within him. Along his dark journey, he encounters fellow lost souls who also inhabit this horrific realm, forming a fragile alliance to combat the relentless nightmares. Together, they must confront their pasts, face their fears, and challenge the very essence of the hell they inhabit. "The Hell Within Me" is a gripping horror novel that delves into the terrifying intersections of mental illness and supernatural terror. As Wan battles the demons of his mind, he must uncover the truth behind his resurrection and confront the chilling question: can he escape the hell within, or will he become its eternal prisoner?

reincarnated into the world of zetxer Quinn was fortunate enough to bind the last embers of a dead divine having received, his memory and access to a divine treasury filled with things he could not use. “ha ha now that’s what I call unlucky. shit what am I meant to do with this, my golden finger” Quinn sat on the floor while staring blankly into space.

Diamond: The Spark Within is a powerful and emotional romance about a young girl, Serena, who transforms from a carefree child into a resilient woman, all while navigating life's darkest challenges. From the moment her mother’s tragic death at a young age shatters her perfect world, Serena is thrust into a life of grief, abuse, and uncertainty. Once a joyful, spirited girl, she becomes withdrawn, haunted by the scars of her broken family. Her elder brother’s violent nature and her father’s overwhelming depression push her further into isolation. But even in the darkest of times, hope has a way of finding its way back. At school, Serena meets her best friend, who helps her heal and rediscover her confidence. With newfound strength, she begins to chase her dreams, determined to overcome her past and build a future for herself. As she matures, love unexpectedly returns into her life. A boy she once had a childhood crush on, now her boss, reappears—helping her not only heal from the traumas of her youth but also reigniting the love she had long since buried. Together, they embark on a journey of healing, love, and self-discovery. Through heartbreak, growth, and the pursuit of her dreams, Serena learns that, like a diamond, she too has been shaped by the pressures of life, only to emerge stronger, more beautiful, and ready to embrace the love and happiness she deserves. Diamond: The Spark Within is a story of resilience, redemption, and the undeniable spark of hope that lies within us all

The Alien Within Grinwall is no ordinary country, and Riverdale Academy is no ordinary school. Both are covert battlegrounds where powerful beings, hidden identities, and secret alliances shape the destiny of those who inhabit them. Among these is Tessa Caldwell, a Kaelrian alien with unmatched speed and a mysterious, water-like fragrance. Adopted by her teacher, Ms. Caldwell, Tessa tries to blend in, but her distinct blue eyes betray her origins to those who know where to look. Her life changes when Adrian, a fellow Kaelrian with a fiery aura and god-like confidence, arrives at Riverdale. Their connection is undeniable, but it attracts dangerous attention. When Adrian’s alien nature is revealed during a dramatic hospital incident, chaos erupts. Government agents are dispatched, and Principal Hammond is forced to defend Riverdale’s reputation, as students react with fear, admiration, and jealousy. Bridget Mills, Tessa’s rival, mocks her defeat by claiming she lost to an "alien," while others, like Oxlade and Karl, recount how Adrian saved them. Yet the growing tension at Riverdale is only a glimpse of greater dangers. The SSG organization, a sinister force with eyes on Tessa and Adrian, is joined by an even darker figure: Ikehara, the shadow of the sun god, and a loyal follower of Rhemon, a devil with a grudge against Solaris the true sun god, whose plans threaten the survival of the Kaelrians loyal to Solaris and Lunara (moon goddess). In the midst of a high-stakes escape from SSG, Tessa and Adrian encounter the mysterious Rhemonic people. The Rhemonics, regarding Tessa as the successor to their moon goddess, worship her, forging a powerful alliance. This new found bond brings new challenges, including a dangerous quest to gather ingredients to awaken the Rhemonic people from their limited lands and blocked memories, a curse wrought by Rhemon—a devilish force once thought to be their salvation. As Rhemon rises, threatening to control both Kaelrians and Rhemonics alike, Tessa and Adrian’s mission becomes a race against time. Along the way, Tessa uncovers her heritage as the daughter of Lunara, the moon goddess, and Solaris, the sun god. Adrian, the son of Solaris and a maid, shares a complex, divine bond with Tessa, yet both are haunted by the legacies they inherit. Amidst this conflict, Ashley Duve, a woman who shares the bed and secrets with Rhemon, fools Tessa into believing she was the moon goddess, and she entered her conscious thought, gradually eroding it away while she appears helpful and wise and seemingly innocent, Ashley’s actions soon reveal her true agenda. She uses her powers to impersonate the moon goddess, taking over Tessa’s body, manipulating events to help Ikehara gather the ingredients needed to awaken Rhemon. As Ashley’s allegiance becomes clear, Tessa and Adrian realize they cannot trust anyone, not even those closest to them. Against overwhelming threats, Tessa and Adrian must fight not only to protect each other but also to save their world. Grappling with questions of identity, loyalty, and love, their journey unfolds across various chapters of betrayal, alliances, and epic confrontations with cosmic powers. Only by unlocking the potential within themselves can Tessa and Adrian hope to survive this battle, protecting the very essence of their people and the world.

In a war-torn land where gods grant power to the worthy and sorcery tilts the scales of battle, Mason, a young warrior known as the WarHound, fights to protect his homeland from the relentless advance of the Heart Kingdom. Renowned for his unparalleled skill and cold detachment on the battlefield, Mason has carved his name into legend. But when a chance encounter with sorcery leaves him broken and near death, he is forced to confront the limits of his strength—and the depth of his pride. Will his pride as a warrior cause his downfall or will it be his strength?