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Skully Marble Hornets

The Winds of Arcadia

Synopsis of The Call to Arms In the serene heart of Greece lies the Alexandros estate, a sprawling haven of vineyards and olive groves owned by the noble Alexandros family. Sophia Alexandros, a poised and compassionate young woman of twenty-six, has long enjoyed the comforts and privileges of her ancestral home. Her life is one of elegance and responsibility, managing the estate with grace since her father’s passing. However, beneath the idyllic surface, political unrest simmers as the Ottoman Empire tightens its grip on Greece, threatening the very essence of Greek heritage and independence. The fragile peace shatters when news arrives that Ottoman forces have seized nearby Kastoria and are advancing toward the Alexandros estate. The sudden invasion thrusts Sophia and her family into chaos, forcing them to confront the harsh realities of war. Faced with the dire choice to submit or resist, Sophia’s resolve hardens. Determined to protect her homeland and preserve her family’s legacy, she decides to join the burgeoning Greek independence movement, abandoning her sheltered life and the expectations to marry well. Leaving behind the marble halls and manicured gardens, Sophia steps into the rugged world of rebellion. She partners with Dimitri, her brave younger brother, and Kosta, the estate’s seasoned foreman, to rally the estate’s staff and nearby villagers. Together, they forge alliances with local rebels, transforming the estate into a strategic stronghold for the resistance. Sophia’s noble upbringing and sharp intellect quickly earn her a leadership role, as she devises strategies, secures supplies, and inspires those around her with unwavering courage. As Sophia immerses herself in the fight for freedom, she faces numerous challenges that test her strength and resolve. Skepticism from some rebels, the loss of comrades, and the relentless pressure from Ottoman forces weigh heavily on her. Yet, her determination never falters. Her leadership becomes a beacon of hope, uniting diverse factions of the resistance and galvanizing a movement that grows stronger with each passing day. Amidst the turmoil, Sophia grapples with personal sacrifices. Her bond with Dimitri deepens as they navigate the perils of war together, each step bringing them closer to their shared dream of a free Greece. The estate, once a symbol of privilege, transforms into a battleground where Sophia’s spirit shines brightest. Her decision to fight not only ignites a personal journey of bravery and resilience but also sparks a larger struggle for national identity and sovereignty. In pivotal moments of strategy and sacrifice, Sophia leads daring raids against Ottoman supply lines, orchestrates defensive maneuvers to protect innocent villagers, and negotiates fragile truces with neighboring factions. Her actions inspire others to join the cause, swelling the ranks of the resistance and escalating the conflict into a full-scale war for independence. Through victories and losses, Sophia remains steadfast, embodying the spirit of Greece’s fight for liberation. The Call to Arms is a gripping tale of courage, duty, and the unyielding pursuit of freedom. It delves into the complexities of leadership, the burdens of responsibility, and the transformative power of unwavering conviction. Sophia Alexandros’s journey from a sheltered heiress to a formidable leader mirrors the broader struggle of a nation yearning to reclaim its destiny. As the Ottoman threat looms ever larger, Sophia and her allies must navigate treacherous alliances, personal sacrifices, and the relentless march of war to secure a future where Greece can flourish free from oppression.
uchenna_basil · 271 Views

Creator's POV

Everything was going according to plan—until my life was turned upside down. I had just graduated from university and was ready to start my career, fulfilling both my goals and those of my parents. But then, disaster struck. —— Creation of the World—a game that grants its user the ability to control a limitless world, with the power to create and destroy anything without restriction. Cassian watched helplessly as Earth was consumed by the world he had built. Unable to intervene, he suddenly found himself in a body that wasn’t his own. Cassian Starhold—the older brother of the world’s greatest hero. —— I was content with my life as a puppet, a slave whose only purpose was to toil away, sacrificing everything for a few worthless scraps of metal. But my enemies couldn’t leave me in peace. They brought war to my doorstep and destroyed everything I had spent my life building. I stood among thousands of their strongest sons, as they listened to the man who had ignited the fire in my life. Towering and imposing, he spoke from atop majestic marble columns, his gray hair blending with the crowd. Thousands of people, all sharing his features, gazed up at him with eyes filled with admiration and ambition. “People are not equal!” he declared, his voice dripping with arrogance. “We are the pinnacle of evolution! There is nothing beyond us! We have risen above piles of inferior blood, leaving massacres in our wake. And now, you are about to inherit this legacy.” He paused, surveying the crowd below with cold pride. “But this power must be earned. It is not granted by birth. Wealth, power, status… these things demand mountains of victims just to catch a glimpse of them.” His arms stretched wide, madness and pride gleaming in his eyes, and the crowd mirrored him, thousands roaring with fervent pride. The sight was terrifying. “You have no idea what your ancestors sacrificed to put you here. But you will learn. And I swear to you, with my pride on the line…” “Only those worthy of us will survive!” "Soon, I will show you why we are called dragons!" What these so-called dragons don’t know… is that a puppet will rise to shatter their illusions. He’s wrong. None of them will survive. ====== Author's Note: As you can see from the tags, the MC will eventually become a villain, but not at the beginning—and not even within the first three arcs. I'll take the time to carefully build his character and develop his transformation in a way that feels natural and logical. His ultimate goal is to return to his original family, so he harbors a deep hatred for the world he’s been pulled into. This novel will explore darker themes like slavery, murder, mind control, and betrayal. However, it will not contain R-18 content, so if that’s what you’re looking for, you might want to reconsider. The MC won’t be OP from the start, nor the smartest, but he will quickly gain experience and grow.
Yoseman · 320.6K Views

The vengeful God in another world is me?! Wasn't it just a game?!

‘How did this happen’ The young man, practically a boy, looked at the scene in front of him. In just one glance it was possible to see dozens of people, more closely he was sure there could be hundreds or thousands of people prostrating themselves in front of him. From the center of the city square to the adjacent streets in front of the temple, with a frightening similarity to what happened in the Vatican when the Pope gave a speech. The young man sitting on a throne too big for him, inside a marble temple he could see expressions of happiness, reverence, gratitude and in some a small hint of fear. Not that he paid much attention to the others, his attention was mainly drawn to the group directly below the throne. This group was made up of people of various ages, from old men with gray and wrinkled hair, but with strangely healthy bodies and postures upright like poles, to young people of various ages including children. What this group in particular had in common was their expression, which could only be described as fanatical as they looked at the young man. The only thing that was going on in the young man's head, with all this excessive attention, was simply... ‘How did things get like this?!!!! I was just playing a game!!!!’ In a room in an ordinary apartment, in an ordinary city. A seemingly ordinary young man could be seen lying in bed with a cell phone on his chest. The cell phone was on and showing scenes from what appeared to be a game. With a small and intriguing coincidence that the young man sitting on a huge throne inside a marble temple was completely identical to the sleeping young man. ********************************************** Thanks to ImagineArt for the image
FereliX25 · 24.4K Views

The Price of Devotion - A Dark Marriage Between a Vampire and a Human

WARNING: DARK ROMANCE, MATURE The judge's lips curved into a thin, wicked smile as her gaze locked onto Asher. She stepped forward, her black lace gown trailing behind her like a dark, flowing shadow. Beneath the mask that obscured her eyes, something cold and knowing gleamed—a predator sizing up its prey. Asher’s pulse quickened. He hadn’t expected this. No one had. From his seat, Mr. Evergland studied the scene with careful detachment, one hand resting casually on the arm of his throne-like chair. The room was tense, a ripple of hushed murmurs passing through the vampire assembly. Some watched with fascination. Others with growing unease. A few even looked outright afraid. The judge’s voice shattered the silence, calm but laced with a chilling authority. "You’ve made your choice," she said, each word deliberate. "You want to challenge this union, to save your sister... but you offer yourself as the prize. Very well. Let’s make it official." Asher froze, his breath caught in his chest. Official. The word settled over him like an iron weight, suffocating the air in the room. He had walked into this with no plan, no backup—but now it was too late to back down. The judge raised her hand, and the crowd fell into stunned silence. Her voice rang out again, carrying a finality that reverberated through the cold marble walls. "Tonight, Asher of the Kapella family," she declared, her tone unwavering, "you will not only interrupt our ceremony—you will replace it. We will honor the bond you’ve offered, and in doing so, I will bind you to me." A collective gasp swept through the room. Eyes flicked nervously between Asher and the judge. He could feel the weight of every gaze, but his own mind was spinning. This can’t be happening. This wasn’t part of the plan. "What do you mean?" he stammered, panic creeping into his voice. He had thought he was making a stand, but now it felt like the ground was slipping out from under him. "I... I didn’t mean—" The judge’s smile deepened, cruel and sharp. She tilted her head, as if savoring his discomfort. "Did you really think there would be no consequences?" she asked, her voice silk over steel. "You’ve disrupted our world, Asher. You’ve made your offer, and now... you’ll fulfill it. In the most fitting way." ______ In the desolate world of Rakan, the Evergland Clan reigns supreme as the most powerful royal vampire family. In a bid to secure an alliance, they seek a marriage candidate for their son and turn to the most coveted human family in the land, the Kapellas, who, despite their status, live in poverty and misfortune. This human family consists of a widowed mother, an eldest daughter, and two sons: the youngest son, who is mute, and the eldest son, Asher, who is terminally ill. The Evergland Clan arranges a grand dinner and ball to unite the families. Though the eldest daughter, the family’s pillar of strength, has already found love with another human, she is nonetheless chosen to marry the vampire heir. Bound by duty but conflicted by her heart, she is set to fulfill the Evergland Clan’s wishes. During the proceedings, Asher, determined to protect his sister from a loveless union, takes a bold step. He interrupts the wedding and takes over, giving himself up to a mysterious women. Unaware of the consequences this declaration will bring, Asher unknowingly opens the door to a fate far darker than he could have anticipated.
Ky_Sade · 8K Views

Virgil’s Kitten

In the heart of medieval times, Atika, a tribal slave girl adorned with intricate tattoos marking her heritage, finds herself on the auction block once again. Known for her fierce spirit and unyielding defiance, she has been sold and returned by numerous masters, none able to tame the wildness within her. Atika's life changes when Virgil, a handsome and tall pureblood vampire, attends the auction. Cold, sadistic, and narcissistic, Virgil's reputation precedes him. Yet, he is immediately captivated by Atika's beauty and fiery spirit. Her feral nature reminds him of a wild kitten, earning her the nickname "kitten" from him. Intrigued and seeing potential in her that others have missed, Virgil places a high bid, securing Atika as his new possession. He brings her to his grand estate, a place of opulence and dark secrets. There, he plans to mold her into a perfect servant, but he is also drawn to the possibility of something more—an unusual bond that neither can yet define. Excerpt: The moonlight filtered through the high, arched windows of Lord Virgil’s estate, casting an ethereal glow over the polished marble floors. The imposing figure of Virgil, a tall and handsome pureblood vampire with raven hair and piercing red eyes, stood in the center of the grand hall. His gaze was fixed on Atika, the human slave girl who knelt before him, her tribal attire and tattoos a stark contrast to the opulence around her. Atika's spirit was unbroken despite her circumstances. She was feisty, with a sharp tongue and a sweetness that could disarm even the coldest of hearts. But Virgil was not easily swayed. His narcissistic and sadistic nature made him a master of control, and he relished the challenge she presented. “Kneel, kitten,” Virgil commanded, his voice smooth and unwavering. Atika hesitated for a moment, her eyes flashing with rebellion, but she complied, sinking to her knees before him. She hated the nickname he had given her, but there was a strange intimacy in the way he said it, a possessiveness that sent shivers down her spine. Virgil stepped closer, his tall frame towering over her. He reached out, lifting her chin with a single finger, forcing her to meet his gaze. “Such a feral kitten,” he murmured, a hint of amusement in his voice. “You remind me of a wild creature, untamed and full of fire.” Atika’s breath hitched, but she refused to look away. “I am not a pet,” she said defiantly. “I am a warrior.” Virgil chuckled, the sound low and dangerous. “You are whatever I say you are,” he replied, his thumb brushing over her lips. “And right now, you are mine.” His eyes flickered to the brand on her shoulder, the mark that declared her a slave. His expression darkened, the amusement vanishing as quickly as it had appeared. “Who branded you with this mark?” he demanded, his voice cold and sharp. Atika’s heart pounded, fear and anger warring within her. She knew that revealing the name would bring death, but Virgil's patience was not infinite. She remained silent, her defiance a silent challenge. Virgil’s eyes narrowed, his grip tightening on her chin. “Answer me, kitten,” he growled, his voice a dangerous whisper. “Who dared to mark you as their property?” Tears welled in Atika’s eyes, but she refused to let them fall. She took a deep breath, her voice trembling as she finally spoke. “His name is Varek,” she said her voice barely a whisper. “He is the one who branded me.” Virgil’s expression grew darker, a deadly calm settling over him. He released her, turning away with a dangerous grace. “Varek,” he repeated, the name like poison on his lips. “He will pay for this.”
KyrieUzumaki · 9.4K Views

OWNED BY HIM

Angelo Verde is a spy who investigates the Mafia's underground business. In the middle of an undercover operation, some unavoidable events leave him no choice but to serve Marvel Yerevan, the Mafia crime boss of one formidable Family. The taste of horrible and peculiar experiences in the underworld does not stop him from stepping deeper into the Mafia's territory, all to gain Marvel's trust. Ready to submit, even become a plaything, he will act subservient while secretly taking advantage of his position for the investigation to complete the tasks he is given. But, can he win the mission when he has never been victorious over a personal battle with the boss? EXCERPT I: "Sir, I think you need to change your clothes, or else you will catch a cold." I suggested Marvel, using his half-wet suit of rain as an excuse to get to know him better. The man in front of me was so tall and well-built, his physique exposed both strength and beauty. It wasn't out of curiosity that I patted his shoulder to sweep the wet dots away, but I wanted to create a connection with him. "If you don't mind, let me help you," I smiled. "It's my responsibility to take care of your health and serve you, so let's go to your room and change-" The coldness of fingers touching my cheek startled me, freezing up the rest of my words. Before I could develop a reaction, the artistic form of a man had turned blurry above my dilated eyes when Marvel reduced our distance. Seizing up the air I meant to breathe in, his lips contrived a way to communicate with mine without the need for words. I always asked myself, what should I do to get closer to Marvel, to step into his territory, to make him trust me? I think I know now. EXCERPT II: "It isn't that hard," Marvel convinced me, sure of it. His knuckles slithered above my cheek. "All you have to do is put it inside your mouth and just let it slide above your tongue." His words were followed by a gesture of his thumb teasing my lips until I felt it in between my teeth. Demanding access, it started to push in deeper, stroking my tongue without any sign of reluctance. When his eyes slightly narrowed to hold a smile, the steel blue marbles glimmered, and I couldn't tear my gaze away from this handsome gent in front of me. "You can do it, right?" At first, I wanted to pretend I didn't understand what Marvel was talking about, but my attempt to be indifferent might not work against someone with a character like his, knowing how much power he had, and I realized what his true intention was. I forced my mouth to open, only later did I know that those simple words would change my fate completely. "Yes, Sir."
Puppetstring · 1.1M Views

BLEMISHED: Paint me in your Love

The extravagant ballroom of Salvatore Mansion was decorated lavishly. The entire state was invited to the party. The hurly and burly environment of the ballroom were constantly increasing as guests started to fill the room. The gossiping ladies group were high in volume discussing and guessing the main motto behind this profligate celebration. Men were drinking at the corners and thinking to gain favors from Salvatore. Upstairs a middle-aged man was seated in his master chair and his eyes pierced at the young lad standing in front. The lad thumped his hand on the table and scowled at his father. "I don't agree to this." He muttered curtly. "Utter nonsense. You have to follow that's it." The middle-aged man asked stopping his further protest. In vexation, the man left the room without turning back. A young lady was gracefully standing leaning against the wall beside the study room smirked and blew some air on her slim painted nails and spoke. "Interesting." *** The lad stood at the corner of the adorned ballroom and accessed the crowd. His sharp eyes narrowed at his father who was about to climb the platform morphed stage to deliver the speech that followed the bitter news. He grimaced at that. His father signaled him. That was his cue to follow up. When he reached the middle of the room someone grabbed his hand from behind causing him to stop abruptly and the glass in his hand fell on the floor spilling its whole content on the shiny white marble. Everyone turned their attention to them. It was a girl who stopped him. "Do you have a girlfriend?" This question caught him off guard and he instantly replied, "NO" "Do you like someone?" "No." Though he was confused but answered feeling the eyes of the crowd on them. "The girl smiled brightly and said, "Good." Without waiting for another moment the girl snacked her palm around his nape and stood on her tiptoes and kissed him. There was pin-drop silence in the room. The people gasped at that. The young lad was so shocked that he opened his mouth a bit and it was a perfect liplock. Breaking the kiss the girl stared at the whole crowd and said icily. "From now on he is mine." Leaving everyone in uttered stupefaction.
TheWallflowerrGirl · 6.2K Views

RHEFA(Blessing In Disguise)

She was of great beauty and power, blessed with the divine strength of the goddess. She lived in a world where humans, werewolves, witches, and vampires coexisted, but she was unaware of her own secret - her blood was the key to ultimate power. She soon found herself in grave danger, as malicious forces from all walks of life sought to claim her blood as a sacrifice. The race was on to see who would capture her first and rule over the entire world of the humans, werewolves, witches, and vampires Only one person knew the true power she held - the prince of the vampire kingdom. He vowed to protect her at all costs, keeping her hidden from those who would do her harm. But with time running out and the forces of darkness closing in, it became increasingly clear to everyone that this was a battle that could not be won alone. As her power grew stronger, so did the fear and jealousy of those who sought her blood. But with the help of her guardian, she learned to control her power, and together with the prince, they set out to find a way to end the chaos and restore balance to their world. Through twists and turns, betrayals and sacrifices, they faced their adversaries head-on, determined to overcome the odds and emerge victorious. But will they overcome the odds? ************************************ Schedule: Daily update (1 chaps/day) Each chapter with its mystery. The cover: isn't mine, if you are the creator of this art please contact me if you want it removed
Marble_Fun_World · 6.6K Views

Devil Child

The future of mankind rests in Noe's hands. Having faced brutal bullying throughout his life, Noe is sent to a boarding school where his luck takes a sudden turn for the fantastical. Planet Earth, 2075. Humanity is hanging by a thread after World War Three rendered the globe inhabitable. With the introduction of angels, demons and realms unknown, will Noe play a hand in saving humanity or let the humans that mistreated him burn beneath his flames? To destroy the World or save it? That is the question. Excerpt: Like a demon of destruction, Noe snaps. His vision blurs and dissipates, scattered like glass beads across cement. When he comes to, he is no longer watching the scene but is at its epicenter, soaking in a pool of purple blood, maroon cadavers strewn across the ground. Every centimeter of the hall is covered in gore - except for Mr. Henderson, whose eyes, wide-blown in astonishment... and horror, are captivated by Noe's neck. Looking down at himself, Noe sees thousands of black feathers have sprouted out from his own flesh. They tingle at the root and shudder as he breathes, as if leaves clinging to a tree in winter. Blood coats his every morsel. Springing his now grey fingertips onto his neck, Noe perceives what feels like the head of a purple hyacinth wrapped around it, its ribbon-like strands interlocking and jetting as if growing from his voice box. Touching his face, porcelain-smooth, painted by blood, marble skin appears unbreakable. It was all for first love. —- Discord: SEP1A#9769 Cover Art: raazu692 | Fiverr
SEP1A · 294.2K Views

A GODLY AFFAIR

Marley made sure to avoid the man's gaze as she spoke. "Why are you back so soon? Shouldn't you be planning your wedding or something?" "I'll leave that to my mother." The god closed the gap between him and Marley completely, he stood so close that his warm breath was hitting her forehead. "She'll start wedding preparations after I've properly proposed and presented the ring." Apollo spoke as he tucked a lock of hair behind Marley's ear. Marley felt her chest tighten. He was going to take her ring idea and propose to Marpessa? And why was he telling her about it? Couldn't he see that he was hurting her? "Oh" was all Marley could say. "I was thinking of doing it now, the sooner the better. Besides, I don't want to have to wait any longer to spend the rest of my life with this woman," Apollo spoke with a sly smile. He was very well aware that Marley had no idea that he was talking about her, given her sullen and sad expression. "Do what you want." Marley responded. She turned her face away from Apollo, trying hard to hold back her tears. She was about to walk away from him when she noticed his form descending to the ground. The brunette turned towards Apollo and saw him on the marble floor, down on one knee with a white tulip flower in hand. On the stalk of the tulip, was a gold ring incrusted with diamonds. "Marley, my little flower, I have never felt for any woman what I feel for you, and I am sure I never will. For you, I would defy all odds, break all rules and undergo all trials..." Marley covered her mouth with her hands as tears rolled down her cheeks. "It would make me the happiest man if you became my wife." Apollo removed the ring from the flower and presented it to the girl. "Would you make this creepy old man happy and marry him?" ———————————————————- In an age where love between humans and gods is strictly forbidden, the Greek god Apollo's immortal heart is captured by a beautiful human woman. Will their affair bring the two realms together, or will it lead to a raging war. Go on a thrilling romantic adventure with the Greek gods in a tale of passion, forbidden love, betrayal and grief.
Bee1429 · 31.4K Views

Journey to restoration

Regia looked around the large room. It was a huge paradox of what she was used to. It had a large vanity embroidered with silver and marble and a grand styled decor. She moved closer to the large bed in the centre of the room. Its sheets had been rolled back invitingly and it was an invite that she couldn't resist. She crawled on the bed and laid on its soft sheets, adoring its feeling against her skin. She didn't know when or how she fell asleep afterwards. A hand slowly tapped her and she fluttered her eyes open. The duke of Albania stood observing her,his hands pulled to his back. She sat up with a start and quickly got of the bed. She didn't need a soothsayer to tell her he was the man she had been waiting for. She curtsied with as much grace as she owned and greeted him. "Good afternoon sire". He frowned at her which made her breath hitch. " Good afternoon?, girl it is evening already",he remarked quite harshly. Her eyes widened and she turned to look out the window. She didn't know she had slept that long. The room was lit by an array of gorgeous lantern in the wall. She bowed slightly,tendering her apology. He let out a low scoff before asking, "Is this what you want to wear to sleep?", he asked causing her to look at her gown. She was still wearing the gown she wore after the change. She had been waiting for him so that they could go and eat together but it seemed like he wasn't interested in food at the moment. She watched him head to her bed to sit. He sat and frowned again seeing her stand in the same position. " Well,won't you change to your night gown",he said breaking into her thought. She quickly regained her composure, bowed tendering her apology, and dashed to her observatory veiled with long decorated satin curtains. She saw her night shift already folded and carefully placed on a table beside her bathtub. She quickly slipped out of the heavy clothe she was laden with and wore the white,transparent gown reserved for her. She swallowed as she observed herself in the standing mirror placed in the observatory. The clothe clung to her in all the right places and it perfectly matched her skin. She knew that whoever placed it there had an eye for beauty. She held her breath as she tried to get her thoughts composed. She muttered encouraging words to herself as she sought to return to the Duke. She had already kept him waiting for far too long. She walked in careful strides as she pulled back the curtain and walked towards the bed. The Duke was lying down on the bed now, facing the ceiling. She stopped a few inches afar and called out. "Sire, I am now changed". She waited for a response for a few seconds and on not getting any repeated her statement. He still didn't respond causing her to furrow her brows. She wondered if he fell asleep in his wait. She walked over to him and tapped him gently. He still didn't make a move and his eyes were closed. She trailed his hands to under the sheets. He was unusually quiet and she wasn't even sure she could hear him breathe. She put her hand under the sheets and drew out his hands. What she saw next caused her to shriek in fear. She saw that his hands was covered in his own blood. She pulled the sheets down completely and saw that he had been stabbed by a knife,laying in a pool of his own blood. She fell back in fear,feeling a sinking feeling rise in her chest as her breathing became uneven in panic. She wanted to ran out to call for help but her body refuses to move,reminding her if the implication of her action if she did so. She had nowhere to run or who to talk to that would believe her. She shook her head vehemently,running her hands roughly through her hair. She steeled herself with a new resolution, reminding herself that crying or panic would solve nothing. She stood up and quickly calculated her next line of action. She decided to leave the building and the town as a whole,knowing that her very life was on the line.
Nuella_bliss · 9.7K Views
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