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Muchen Xing

In the mystical realm of ancient China, a legendary tale unfolds within the esteemed Xing Sect. At its core is Mu Chen, the prodigious son of the venerable Xiao Xing. Mu Chen's cultivation level had reached the impressive Grade Four, a testament to his diligent efforts and innate talent. However, it was not until his father, Xiao Xing, bestowed upon him the Divine Chun Artifact that Mu Chen's true potential began to unravel. This ancient relic, imbued with the essence of the heavens, significantly amplified Mu Chen's powers, catapulting him into a new realm of martial prowess. As fate would have it, the harmonious coexistence between the Xing Sect and other martial arts clans was disrupted by the ominous Swords Sect. With an air of superiority, the Swords Sect issued an ultimatum to the Xing Sect, demanding the surrender of their most treasured artifacts. Xiao Xing, unwilling to yield to such tyranny, valiantly confronted the Swords Sect, only to find himself overwhelmed and defeated. It was at this critical juncture that Mu Chen emerged, driven by filial piety and an unyielding determination to protect his father and the Xing Sect. As he grasped the Divine Chun Artifact, Mu Chen felt an extraordinary surge of energy course through his veins. The artifact, sensing its master's unyielding resolve, underwent a miraculous transformation, elevating Mu Chen's cultivation level by two grades in an instant. With his augmented powers, Mu Chen launched a formidable counterattack against the Swords Sect, sending shockwaves throughout the martial arts community. His name became synonymous with bravery and unparalleled martial prowess, as whispers of the Divine Chun Artifact and its extraordinary abilities began to circulate among the sects. Thus, Mu Chen's legend was born, as he embarked on a perilous journey to safeguard the Xing Sect, unravel the mysteries of the Divine Chun Artifact, and forge a path that would etch his name in the annals of history as one of the most revered martial arts heroes of all time.
Kerrylinks1 · 10.1K Views

My world-tree system

We were a peaceful people living in harmony with nature in the vast lands of Lyréanor, but this peace was short-lived when our people were defeated by the dark elves, an ancient people even older than this world. It is said that they arrived in Lyréanor by boat and since their arrival, chaos has been unleashed. Proud of their obscure power, derived from dark rituals, they have raised gigantic armies of monsters whose name is synonymous with terror: ‘Obscurus’. They went on the rampage, and everywhere they went the grass didn't grow back, life died and disintegrated. Seven, there were seven. The seven dark elves known as the Lords of the Apocalypse. A single gesture from them was enough to strike us all down, a single gesture from one of them was enough to decimate us in blood and terror. And as I, Foster, contemplate the macabre scene before me, the bloodied and deformed bodies of my fellow elfes beings, and as death grips my soul, a strange sign appeared before me. [Ding... Activation of the world tree system] If you'd like to discuss the book, I've set up a Discord server: https://discord.gg/sc4nWZwec2 Hello everyone! I'm the author of this little book, and I'm sorry to take your attention, but I've got a few things to say to you! I'm in the process of creating a new book that's totally different but stays within the theme, so I'll give you the title and synopsis! If you like the story, could you support it? Sincerely yours, your favourite author! Title: Starting out as a slave to dragons. Synopsis: When Isaac opens his eyes, it's not death that awaits him, but a new life... in a world identical to his own, with one exception: portals leading to monster-infested dungeons are appearing across the globe. If their boss isn't defeated in three days, the creatures escape and wreak havoc. In this world, awakened hunters are the only line of defence against these horrors. Graded from F to SS according to their magical power, they rule in a society dominated by force. Isaac wakes up in the body of a young boy of rank F, an orphan with no future. But his destiny changes when he discovers a unique gift: every night, his mind is projected into another world, a nightmare where dragons have enslaved humanity. In this hell, he is just another slave... but he soon realises that this cursed world holds the answers to the future of his own. To survive and prevent history repeating itself, Isaac must move forward. His only hope? A mysterious system that allows him to absorb the strength of monsters. Armed with a katana, he embarks on a race against time to unlock the secrets of these two worlds and prevent the inevitable. Link : https://www.webnovel.com/book/31979275600112705
Le_Merwen · 108.3K Views

Threads of Crimson and Gold

New trope (please try it, rewritten on 24.01.2024): Micheal von Shelb, a lazy genius with a penchant for offbeat inventions, wakes up to a brutal truth: he’s a side character in a multiverse of twisted romantic dramas where his family, future children, and even his legacy are casually erased by power-hungry authors. With Magda, his intelligent and no-nonsense wife (who’s also a supporting character in a “switched at birth” melodrama), Micheal vows to save their lives, protect their future, and rebuild the Empire through innovation and sheer audacity. Whether he's dodging political plots, perfecting horseless carriages, or making alliances with beastmen, Micheal has one goal: to carve a space where he and Magda can thrive, far from the claws of a cruel narrative. But the fate has other plans. As ancient rivalries between archmages, devils, and mythical creatures like mermaids resurface, Micheal’s quiet dream spirals into chaos. With wit sharper than a rapier and an unstoppable resolve, Micheal proves that even a side character can rewrite the script. Between inventing futuristic solutions and saving the day, Micheal’s true mission is impressing Magda, who may or may not be secretly stalking him from the foyer. Meanwhile, Micheal himself adjusts his routine to catch glimpses of Magda while pretending not to care. An average day in their life: 1:00 PM: Magda: “I must be punctual to observe my husband training in the garden—from my foyer, of course.” 1:15 PM: Micheal: “Must finish the training early to sneak a peek at my wife reading in her study—from the dining hall window. Definitely not creepy.” With its blend of humor, heartfelt romance, and action-packed multiverse chaos, Breaking the Multiverse is a read for those who enjoy clever protagonists, daring inventions, and a relationship that's equal parts banter and devotion—NO HAREM, just one unforgettable wife. The first volume is for the general audience, the second volume is for people who prefer to sip wine as they read. You can start reading from the second volume of you find the first volume too boring. ----- There are three couples: ML (genius, stalker) x FL (prodigy, stalker) 2ML (soldier) x 2FL (knight) 3ML (soldier) x 3FL (a court lady)
Ryha · 64.1K Views

Duality of Shadows

In a world where everyone is a slave, someone is born who cannot be controlled. At the same time, an unstoppable villain rises on a quest for revenge. But the truth is darker than he ever imagined, and now he must face an unbeatable enemy — including himself. *** Bruno was a young man born on Earth, the son of an influential modern Emperor. Despite having everything money could buy and receiving the best and most rigorous training to succeed his father, he chose the opposite path, defying his family’s ruthless rule. The price of his innocence? A merciless death and the complete erasure of his existence by the deity controlling his fate. On Earth, the law of the powerful was absolute; a slave could never rebel. But then, he wakes up again. He’s reborn in a world of cultivation, where freedom was promised to those strong enough to claim it. Now, he could soar like a free bird and carve his own destiny... or so he thought. The harsh reality of this new world soon showed him how insignificant he still was. He realized he had only changed masters. The freedom he sought was an illusion. The heavenly laws treated everyone as servants, and their rules were unbreakable. Bruno learned this bitter truth after losing everything that made him happy due to an unjust rule. But who was he to question? Hopeless, Bruno died... and was reborn as Alm, an unstoppable villain. With a soul poisoned by pain and vengeance, he sowed chaos across the universe. Planets were destroyed, countless lives taken, and his name became synonymous with terror. A hero rose to oppose him, wielding a sacred sword of hope. People from all corners of the universe united against Alm, raising their voices and weapons to stop the villain who defied the heavens. But Alm was no longer just fighting for revenge. He was challenging the heavenly laws that sought to control him, fighting fate and all living beings. And against all odds... the sacred sword shattered. The alliance of the entire universe was defeated. The villain won! Now, Alm found himself alone in the empty void of a dead universe, facing his own inner demons. Who could be more ruthless to him than himself? “What have I done?” At that moment, the doors of truth opened to him. Everyone was a puppet of a supreme figure, an entity that manipulated minds and even the heavenly laws. “I will find you, no matter where you are!” Thus, the last emissary of the true Heaven’s Will awakened. Alm, who once only relied on his sheer will and rage, now had a system to guide him. But his opponent was an immortal existence, above even the heavens. The villain who destroyed an entire universe now faced a new beginning. He discovered that the universe he devastated was just a tiny grain of sand in an infinite cosmos, where countless other universes existed. And so begins the legendary tale of the villain’s rise... and the Sacred Round God? A strange Duality of Shadows existed within one person. But this time, he wouldn’t be alone. *** To clear up any potential confusion or frustration, here are some key points about the story. I’ll avoid major spoilers, but a few things will be revealed. You might find this concerning at first, but just check the book cover—it shows the main character and his only partner. She first appears at 10 years old, but rest assured, there’s no inappropriate content or early romance. At around 13, SHE starts developing feelings for the protagonist, but he doesn’t respond until she’s an adult. With her determined personality, she tries to seduce him at 17/18, but it doesn’t work. Their relationship only happens much later. The book has nods to other works, with my own spin on them, and focuses on avoiding elements I find problematic in other stories. Lastly, the beautiful book cover was commissioned and created by HDIArt.
Suiyan · 721.9K Views

Echoes of an Empire

Synopsis of Echoes of an Empire Echoes of an Empire is a historical novel chronicling the rise, dominance, and eventual decline of Pakistan’s most influential business empires. Spanning over a century, it tells the intertwined stories of six prominent business families: the Adamjee Group, Hashwani Group, Saigol Group, Fateh Group, Kohinoor Maple Leaf Group, and Ittefaq Group. Each of these families played a pivotal role in shaping Pakistan’s economic landscape, their successes symbolizing the nation’s industrial progress and their struggles reflecting its political and social turbulence. Echoes of an Empire is a gripping historical novel that chronicles the rise and fall of Pakistan’s most influential business empires: the Adamjee, Hashwani, Saigol, Fateh, Kohinoor Maple Leaf, and Ittefaq groups. Spanning over a century, the novel weaves together the personal struggles, family conflicts, and ambitious dreams of these business dynasties as they navigate the country’s shifting political and economic landscape. From the Adamjee Group’s pioneering role in the textile and jute industries to the Ittefaq Group’s dominance in steel and their complex ties with politics, the novel captures the highs and lows of entrepreneurial ambition. With political upheavals, nationalization, and internal family rivalries threatening their legacies, these families face immense challenges as they strive to maintain their empires. At its core, Echoes of an Empire is a tale of resilience, sacrifice, and the enduring impact of these industrial giants on Pakistan’s economy. It offers a compelling exploration of ambition, legacy, and the intricate relationship between business and politics, leaving readers to ponder the cost of power and the legacy of those who shaped the nation’s industrial future. --- The Hashwani Group: Building a Hospitality Empire Next, the novel delves into the journey of Sadruddin Hashwani, a dynamic entrepreneur who transformed his modest cotton trading business into a hospitality powerhouse. The Hashwani Group became synonymous with luxury through its Pearl-Continental and Marriott hotel chains, redefining Pakistan’s tourism industry. Set against the backdrop of political instability and terrorism in the 1980s and 1990s, the Hashwani family’s resilience shines through. The narrative captures their ability to navigate crises while maintaining their business integrity, symbolizing Pakistan’s potential for perseverance and excellence. --- The Saigol Group: Innovators in Industry The Saigol Group emerges as a beacon of industrial innovation. Originating in the early 20th century, the family expanded from textiles into chemicals, electronics, and power generation. Their establishment of Pak Elektron Limited (PEL) marked a significant milestone in Pakistan’s industrialization. Through the Saigol family’s story, the novel examines the balance between tradition and modernization. Internal family dynamics, generational clashes over business strategies, and the challenges of staying competitive in a rapidly evolving market are central themes. The Saigols’ narrative underscores the importance of innovation and adaptability in sustaining long-term success. --- The Fateh Group: Titans of Textile The Fateh Group, founded by Haji Mohammad Ilyas, became a leading textile manufacturer in the 1950s, contributing significantly to Pakistan’s export economy. Their commitment to quality and innovation allowed them to dominate the textile sector for decades. However, financial mismanagement and external economic pressures in the 1990s led to their decline. The novel portrays the family’s struggle to maintain their legacy amidst mounting debts and internal disagreements. It serves as a cautionary tale about the perils of over-expansion and the importance of strategic foresight in business. --- The Kohinoor Maple Leaf Group: Masters of Diversification The Kohinoor Maple Leaf Group, spearhead
FarheenSadiq · 22.1K Views

Silakrov

The dimly lit room was cloaked in a shroud of secrecy, its walls lined with maps, photographs, and cryptic notes that spoke of unseen dangers and tangled networks. The air was thick with the scent of old paper and cigar smoke, remnants of a world where power was wielded in the shadows. In the center of the room stood a figure, his presence commanding and ominous. Ivan Petrov, the feared Russian mafia leader, was a man whose name had become synonymous with fear and control. His reputation for cruelty and cunning was legendary, and his influence extended far beyond the criminal underworld. He was a man who thrived in darkness, pulling the strings of power from behind the scenes. Petrov's gaze was fixed on a map spread out before him, dotted with various locations and coded symbols. His mind was racing, plotting the next move in a game of high-stakes manipulation and deceit. The room's dim lighting cast deep shadows on his face, emphasizing the harsh lines of his expression. "There are always new players on the board," Petrov mused, his voice a low, gravelly whisper. "And every player has a weakness to exploit." Across from him, a shadowy figure emerged from the corner, stepping into the faint light. This was not an ordinary operative; this was a figure of enigma and danger, known only by whispers and rumors. The Broker, a mysterious and elusive figure, was as much a legend as Petrov himself. Their meeting was one of necessity and mutual benefit, but the stakes were high, and trust was a currency neither could afford. "The game is changing, Petrov," The Broker said, their voice carrying a cold, calculated edge. "The dynamics are shifting, and new players are emerging. Your empire is vulnerable." Petrov's eyes narrowed, a dangerous glint reflecting in them. "I am aware of the threats," he replied, his tone laced with menace. "But I have survived this long by adapting and eliminating any threat to my power. Tell me what you know." The Broker stepped closer, revealing a set of documents and photographs that detailed a series of operations and individuals connected to a new threat. These were not mere notes but a roadmap to a larger scheme—a scheme that could disrupt the delicate balance of power Petrov had worked so hard to maintain. "This," The Broker said, placing the documents on the table, "is a precursor to what could be a major upheaval. There are those who seek to challenge your position, and they are more dangerous than you might realize. We need to act swiftly and decisively." Petrov studied the documents, his mind working furiously to assess the implications. The stakes had been raised, and the threat was imminent. The world of shadows was never static; it was a realm where power constantly shifted, and the price of failure was unforgiving. "This is not a game for the faint-hearted," Petrov said, his voice taking on a tone of grim resolve. "I will deal with these new threats as I have dealt with all others. But I will need allies and information. Tell me what you require." The Broker's lips curled into a faint smile, a gesture that spoke of hidden agendas and complex alliances. "We need to ensure that we are always a step ahead. I have my own interests and resources, but we must work together to neutralize these threats. The balance of power must be preserved." As they exchanged information and forged an uneasy alliance, the room seemed to close in around them, the weight of their plans and the shadows of their past looming large. The stage was set for a new chapter in a high-stakes game of power and deception, and the consequences of their actions would reverberate through their lives and the lives of those who would become entangled in their web. Unbeknownst to them, the paths they were about to cross would set in motion a series of events that would test their resolve and shape their futures. In the shadows of their pasts and the darkness of their plans, a new narrative was beginning to unfold
AlexXQuin · 3.7K Views

Reformation: Southern Knight

In a world where magic thrives and mythical beasts lurk in the shadows, Tohgi Akura is born into the unforgiving southern district of Vandekar, a lawless land ruled by bandits and plagued by poverty. Despite his humble beginnings, Tohgi harbors an audacious dream: to achieve that dream he must become a Knight, a title synonymous with honor, power, and nobility. His raw talent rivals the elite, but his lack of noble heritage leaves him scorned by the privileged. Yet, Tohgi’s unwavering determination and resilience catch the attention of influential figures who see potential in the unrefined boy. With their assistance, Tohgi rises through the ranks, challenging a society built to keep people like him in the dirt. But ambition has its price. As Tohgi carves his path toward greatness, his defiance against the status quo ignites conflicts that spiral into devastating wars. In his quest to protect those he loves and what he stands for, Tohgi must grapple with the weight of his choices and the sacrifices demanded by his legacy. Will Tohgi Akura go down in history as a hero, a tyrant or just another man. His story is one of ambition, loyalty, and the unrelenting cost of dreams. Do not hesitate to comment your thoughts at any point in the story, it would bring me great joy to be able to interact with readers of my work. I hope to see you on the other side. PS: Bold text indicates the use of magic, parenthesis () indicates thought. Thank you! Enjoy! :)
Tedag_Pen · 22.3K Views

Tale of the Mythical Beast Tamer

In a realm where humanity’s survival hinges on taming the primordial beasts that rule land, sea, and sky, ten-year-old Kai is branded a failure after bonding with a pitiful Rock Sparrow—a creature synonymous with weakness. But when Kai awakens a forbidden gift, **Beast Insight**, he uncovers the truth: even the lowliest beasts harbor mythic potential. Armed with the ability to see evolution paths invisible to others, Kai embarks on a perilous quest to transform his sparrow into a legendary Skyfeather Roc. Yet the materials he needs lie in the deadliest corners of the world: Stormheart Crystals guarded by tempests, Phoenix Down plucked from ashes of rebirth, and Essence of Gale siphoned from the lungs of hurricanes. Along the way, he forges bonds with misfit beasts discarded by society—a scarred Azure Wolf, a flame-drained Salamander, and a tree spirit cursed with rot—each hiding secrets only Kai can unlock. But power attracts envy. Ruthless Tamers, greedy nobles, and ancient beasts who resent humanity’s arrogance conspire to crush him. As Kai defies the limits of what a Tamer can achieve, he unravels a darker truth: the line between “tamer” and “beast” is thinner than anyone dares admit. And the gods who forged these bonds are watching… ***Tame or be tamed?*** In this epic saga of growth, betrayal, and soaring ambition, Kai will rewrite the laws of evolution—or become another cautionary tale in humanity’s fragile reign. --- **Tagline:** *"Weakness is an illusion. Every beast—and every soul—has a path to godhood."*
Nep_Facts · 7.3K Views

First demon empress

In the demonic realm, the title of Tarath, once a name, has become synonymous with the demon emperors. Two thousand years after the original Tarath's death, a new era dawns with the ascension of King Virex of the Aeriel Demon Kingdom to the throne of Demon Emperor. However, this time, a Demon Empress is born, challenging the ancient traditions. King Virex, wary of the power and unpredictability of demonesses, remarks, "Demonesses are problems themselves, what more could a Demon Empress be?" The new Demon Empress, Tarath, is a figure of immense power and desire. By her side is Bain, a half-mortal, half-fox demon whose loyalty and unexpected strength have made him indispensable. Despite his mortal origins, Bain has grown powerful and has outlived many pure demons. *** As Tarath sits on her grand throne, her beauty and allure are undeniable. Her subjects know her as a demon driven by lust and desire. Bain, ever loyal, kneels before her, his eyes filled with admiration. She extends her hand seductively, and Bain, understanding her unspoken command, kisses it reverently. "Demon kings covet the throne," she muses. "They dream of killing me to take it, but it will remain just that—a dream. You've grown powerful, Bain. Do you also desire my throne?" Bain pauses, then looks up at her with unwavering devotion. "I want you, not the throne," he declares. **** In the demonic realm, rain is acidic and falls only once every 5,000 years. But what happens when the Demon Empress ventures into the mortal realm and feels the pure rain on her skin for the first time? And what if she encounters the rain god? This story is a tapestry of emotions—unspoken feelings, lust, confusion, loyalty, ambition, betrayal, pain, and epic battles. The clash of desires and the struggle for power will determine the fate of the demonic realm. volume 1:Birth of the demon empress and the freak
Dgirlblusky · 596 Views

Within Two Hearts

“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.
EZEKIEL_FRIDAY · 2.2K Views

By Blood and Ashes

In the heart of the empire, House Velcraven stood as a legend of power, feared for their dark blood magic and ruthless might. Their name was synonymous with strength, their red eyes a mark of nobility, and their rituals a gateway to unearthly force. At the center of their bloodline was Katherine, the youngest heir, born under a prophecy that declared her the future of her house. Her birth was marked by tragedy: her mother perished in childbirth, a sign of strength according to Velcraven tradition, for to kill in birth was to claim dominion. Yet this triumph was short-lived. When Katherine completed her Rite of Passage—drinking the blood of her ancestors—she gained the power of twenty men, but at a price: her very life would now depend on the blood she drained from others. No longer could she live in peace; she must feed or succumb to death. But the day of her ascension brought more than just power. She began seeing visions—cryptic whispers from the past, a woman shrouded in shadows, who seemed to be her long-dead ancestor. The woman shows her a vision of destruction, and of a war that would tear her house apart. Before Katherine could warn her family, the great houses of the empire, in league with the emperor himself, set their treacherous scheme in motion. Stormhold, the Velcraven ancestral castle, was engulfed in flames. Her father, seeing her gift as a sign of ancient power, managed to send Katherine away in secret, safeguarding the last hope of the Velcraven bloodline. But her family stayed behind to face the slaughter, their names lost to the ravages of war. Alone in a foreign land, Katherine must learn to survive, to feed, and to rebuild her house to its former glory. The blood of her ancestors courses through her veins, guiding her path as she seeks vengeance against the cowardly houses that betrayed her—and the emperor who plotted her house’s downfall. With visions haunting her every step and the weight of her lineage upon her shoulders, Katherine will carve her way through a world that knows nothing of House Velcraven and everything of its wrath.
RyoInThaBassu · 1K Views

unrecognizable

Theo Greene is the kind of person everyone on campus seems to know—and like. A sophomore theater major with a passion for helping others and dancing, Theo lives his life with an open heart and an open mind. Whether it’s helping his classmates rehearse lines, offering snacks during late-night study sessions, or smiling at strangers in the dining hall, Theo believes that kindness is its own kind of magic. But his optimism is put to the test when Caleb Rivera walks into his life—or rather, into their shared dorm room. Caleb, a junior, who for some reason is still living on campus and is getting paired with Sophomores for dorms, is a chemical engineering major and the university’s star soccer player, is Theo's polar opposite in every way. Known for his smoldering (tangled getting to me bro) good looks, sharp jawline, and piercing gaze, Caleb is as popular as he is unapproachable. He keeps most people at arm’s length, speaking only when necessary and letting his reputation do the talking. Rumors swirl about his cold demeanor—some say he’s arrogant, others claim he’s a serial killer. The truth? Caleb just doesn’t care enough to correct them, he's just a chill guy. Theo quickly discovers that Caleb’s standoffishness isn’t limited to strangers. Caleb ignores him whenever possible, leaving their dorm in chaos, coming and going without explanation, and offering little more than gruff one-word responses to Theo's friendly gestures. It’s a frustrating dynamic, especially for someone like Theo, who is just trying to be nice. The only time Caleb shows a hint of warmth is when he’s with his two younger brothers, Jake and Lucas, one of a freshman and the other a sophomore and one of Theo's good friends. Theo watches with curiosity and envy as Caleb transforms around them—his sharp edges softening, his rare smile breaking through the facade. It’s clear he loves his brothers fiercely, even if he keeps the rest of the world at bay. Determined to crack the mystery of Caleb Rivera, Theo starts to notice things that don’t add up. The way Caleb’s eyes linger when he thinks no one’s looking. The rare moments of quiet vulnerability, like when Caleb flips through an old, well-worn journal or stares out the window, lost in thought. And then there’s the night Theo overhears Caleb defending him to a group of students mocking his kindness. That moment changes everything. Theo's curiosity turns into something deeper—an unshakable desire to understand Caleb, to figure out why he’s built such high walls around himself. Despite Caleb’s icy demeanor, Theo refuses to give up. He starts leaving small acts of kindness for Caleb to stumble upon: a cup of coffee on a stressful morning, ironing his shirts, or a note of encouragement slipped into one of Caleb’s textbooks. At first, Caleb brushes them off, but slowly, begrudgingly, he starts to let his guard down. What starts as awkward exchanges about soccer games and theater projects evolves into something deeper—confessions of childhood dreams, fears, and the weight of expectations. Theo learns that Caleb’s coldness isn’t born of arrogance but of pain—an armor forged by betrayal and heartbreak. Caleb, in turn, discovers that Theo's kindness is not a naïve veneer but a choice—a strength rooted in his own battles with loneliness and rejection. As their connection grows, so do the challenges they face. Caleb’s popularity puts them under the microscope of campus gossip, and misunderstandings threaten to drive a wedge between them. Theo struggles with his own insecurities, wondering if he can ever be enough for someone like Caleb, while Caleb wrestles with the fear of letting someone in only to lose them. Through it all, Theo finds himself falling for the boy who once seemed incapable of love, and Caleb discovers that maybe he doesn’t hate everyone after all. This is unrecognizable by yours truly.
Chloe_Bryant · 454 Views
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