Feigned Retreat

--- Ariana was rooted to the floor outside of Anthony’s door her heart raced in her chest, like something was preparing to break apart her ribs. She had not wanted to come to a halt, much less listen in on the conversation that was unfolding before her. But the sound of laughter that came from Rachel was not new to her ears which suddenly had her face the direction of the voice like a pupet. “…you’re so bad, Anthony,” Rachel whispered sexily. “I never lie to you,” Anthony countered sullenly then suddenly grew smarmy, “I’m only bad with you.” Reaching out Ariana braced her back against the wall and her mind whirled round with confusion. Glancing around the corner she stopped breathing as she saw them. Rachel resting on Anthony laps, having her hand resting on Anthony’s arm. He leered at her, and from even his bearing suggest that he wanted something more than friendship from her. “She has not realized it yet?” Rachel asked me in low tones as if Shareen was a hopeless case. Anthony chuckled. “He realized Ariana was smart, as well as trusting in his team. That’s her weakness.” Such words are a shock for Ariana as if someone slapped her. [His fists clenched.]His hands shook, and for a moment she considered; she felt that nausea could overcome herself. Trust. That was what she had delivered to them – what she considered they deserved. And now? Now they were laughing about it, about her . She wanted to rush into the room and meet them eye to eye, look them into the eyes and scold them for every single angry word that rises within her chest. But she didn’t move. Not yet. She held a strap of her bag so tightly her hands became gloved. Indeed, she retreated sensibly, her breathing becoming light. It was not so strange they did not notice her go ; of course they did not. Why would they, if they reckoned she did not know any better? And when she came to the door of the house, shutting herself out on the cold evening, when the wind caressed her cheek like a slate, then in her soul something leaped. The heartbreak was still there, but it was buried beneath a wave of something new,rage. But she paused and with her head held high she walked away leaving her legs give away from her. The frosty night’s darkness embraced her when she tripped outside, onto the campus and grass., but the freezing air was no match for the icy sensation in her chest. She began to ponder vigorously various questions, accusations and processes of retaliation in her mind. But she didn’t see the car. This blaring of the horn was too late. There was the pathetic squealing of brakes and a moment of unbearable agony that filled her from head to toe. The world staggered, and the last thing Ariana could make out before everything went black was the night sky above her. Everything went black. ---

He inches closer, a single finger roaming her heated skin. Breath mingling with breath. A loud bang vibrates through the room, so thunderous as if god himself was furious. Slowly he looks up staring out the large glass windows to the backyard, "You have a visitor." His rasps calmly. "Who?" Rose quickly fires, feigning ignorance. She knew well enough who it was. Her nightly visitor has arrived. Surprising, He only visits when she is alone. "One who comes out at night. Lurking in the shadows, in the darkness... just like its intensions." He looks down still leaning on top her, once more pinning her with his intense gaze. "Are you afraid?" His voice dead serious, eyes going back to look outside. And Rose lied, "No." But is it a lie when her fear was never really rooting enough to make her run the other way but instead often getting mixed with exhilaration. "You should be." He leaves her staring wide eyed on the sofa and goes to stand before the glass panes. "It's not happy to see me here. I can see the raging pits of fire in it's gaze. Ready to burn me right where I stand." he chuckled, sounding most sinister, "It definitely wants to rip my innards out." "You should take off your shirt." He suggests casually. "Excuse me?" "Let's see if it riles him up even more to shatter instead of just slamming the windows like a wuss." He rouses under his breath, his excited provocative tone not escaping Rose's attention. What the hell is he up to? "This isn't funny." Rose sputters out, standing up from the couch. "I'm not trying to be." He faces her again, sporting a deadpan face. "Whatever. You think I'm one of your stupid fan girls to take my shirt off just because you want to rile someone up? Besides, there's probably no one outside and you're only making it up to see my boobs like a pervert." His eyes roams her from top to bottom, there was distaste evident in his gaze. "When he comes at night and leaves a little something for you, maybe then you take off your clothes for him... like a slut." Rome stared into her eyes with nothing behind those icy orbs to show for a lack of meaning behind his words. Because he means every single thing he says to her. "Get. Out. Now!" Rose boomed furiously. "Whatever, I was leaving anyway. This has become boring." He walks towards her front door. "Wait. How do you know he comes at night and leaves something?" her eyes narrow. "Because I've seen it before." "You saw him? It is a real guy?" Rose wanted to confirm, for some reason she thought otherwise. "I never said I saw him. I've only seen it happening to someone else." "Whom?" "You don't need to know." He closes off. "Then at least tell me what happened to her? Can I meet this person?" "You can't." Refusing calmly he was almost out the door when Rose pleads against hope. "Please." "You can't because she disappeared." Those were the words that finally did it. Brought her racing heart and buzzing head to a sudden halt. "Never to be seen again." "When he stops visiting, that's when you should be most afraid." His words rang like a siren in the silence of her mind as he left. Now she felt true fear for the first time. == In the embrace of her ancestral town, Rose seeks refuge from the echoes of her past. Little does she know, her return to her roots will awaken dormant shadows, shattering ordinary her existence. For when the darkness falls over the town, from the pitch black rises a shadowy figure that haunt her nights. In the darkness he sweeps her off the ground in terrible fear and the allure of sinister intrigue. And once the sun comes, a man with a god awful attitude, haunts her in the broad day light. Causing her to swell with pure disdain. With each passing night, it draws closer to Rose, casting a chilling spell that both terrifies and exhilarates her. Thrust into a labyrinth of mysteries can she navigate the treacherous path laid before her, or will her nightly visitor consume her whole?

In a world smothered by ash and silence, Austin wanders through the ruins of a once-thriving civilization, scavenging for survival and searching for answers. Haunted by the oppressive monotony of the quarantine zones and driven by whispers of underground sanctuaries, he risks everything to uncover a life beyond the decay. When he stumbles upon a cryptic note: "Seek the truth below". Austin’s journey takes a darker turn. Rumors of hidden facilities, where the powerful retreated during the collapse, intertwine with eerie occurrences and the unsettling feeling that the ruins are not as lifeless as they seem. As he ventures deeper into the remnants of humanity, Austin confronts not only the desolation of the world but also the echoes of its secrets. In the crumbling streets and shadowed depths, survival means more than finding food and water; it means uncovering the truth about what destroyed the world—and what might still lie beneath its surface.

When a mountain comes to life, awakening its consciousness, it takes on another form—a Mountain Spirit. And that’s me reborn with extraordinary Divine powers. Want to know what these divine powers are? Well, one of them allows me to accelerate herb growth—up to one hundred times faster! Impressive, right? But wait, there’s more! I also possess a ‘golden finger’—which is ‘Space-Time’ system that lets me fish for lost techniques, weapons, pill formulas, and other treasures from the rivers of time and space. With these at my disposal, I’m sure to become stronger, at least stronger than the beautiful sect master who claims my mountain as her personal retreat and constantly drag me into her matters. It’s not an easy life, but no need to worry! I’m not just any spirit—I’m a human spirit born from a mountain, which means I have an extraordinary talent for cultivation. To top it off, my system was generous enough to grant me a divine cultivation technique right from the start. There’s just one tiny problem: it’s a dual cultivation technique, and I need a partner to cultivate it. So, I had no choice but to convince the sect master’s stunning disciple to help me out. I mean, it’s not like I’m after her gorgeous long legs, her curvaceous thighs, or her… well, you get the point. I’m just a humble cultivator trying to grow stronger by any means necessary. If only she’d run into some trouble, so I could swoop in and save the day. That would make things a lot easier for me… but alas, life is never that simple. Still, I’ll find a way. With my Space-Time system, my mountain’s power, and a little charm, I’ll outgrow this mountain and surpass everyone—even the sect master. And maybe, just maybe, I’ll enjoy the beauties along the way. *** No NTR, No Yuri, No Yaoi *** LinkTree- https://linktr.ee/Around_The_Moon Discord- https://discord.gg/zTgR9VFduX

After being reincarnated in a world of Gods, Demons, and Great Emperors, Wang Wei embarks on a journey to bear Heaven Mandate, proves the Dao, and proclaims himself a Great Emperor--a Supreme Being that overlooked Myriad World and Races. However, his Dao involves despising fate and its encompassing glory. So what awaits our protagonist on his journey full of vicissitudes to defy and even control fate? While he controls the fate of countless races and worlds, is fate playing with him? Can he escape the very shackles of fate that he controls? Better Synopsys: After an unknown cosmic accident that enveloped the Earth, Wang Wei was reincarnated into a magical world of spiritual cultivation. This world was composed of powerful Demons, cunning and brutal Devils, ruthless and indifferent Gods, detached and ethereal Immortals. More Importantly, Great Emperors--Supreme Beings that stand above everyone and everything, even life and death itself. Despite being born in one of the most powerful sects in the world, Wang Wei was placed under tremendous pressure when so many expectations were placed on him by his sect due to the fact they have not cultivated a Great Emperor for countless millennia--an act which threatened the fundamental status of his family, friends, and sect. On top of that, Wang Wei was not one of the chosen few of this world that was granted special gifts by Heaven, thus further aggravating his circumstances. However, he did not retreat in the face of adversity. With the mindset that “If Heaven does not give me, I shall take it for myself”, Wang Wei begins to plan his rise to the top with a brilliant tactical mind and the help of his mysterious soul so that one day he will become a Great Emperor that not only control his fate but the fate of all lives in existence. This story has a similar setting as Emperor Dominion, I am a True Villain, and Scoring the Sacred Body of the Ancients from the Get-go. If you enjoy this type of story, then you will enjoy my story. The first 30 chapters or so have many problems story-wise, so please bear with it as I was just beginning as a writer. However, I promise the story gets better afterward. Discord:https://discord.gg/bnsezTApeY Go check out my Pa.tr.eon: .https://www.patréon.com/LazySageDao Or just go into the site and search for my author name (LazySageDao). So, go and support me if you can. Warnings: No Young Master and Face Slapping. Disclaimer: The image on the cover does not belong to me. If the original author wants me to take it down, just leave a comment in one of the new chapters of the book.

◾ SYNOPSIS◾ He stood motionlessly, his cloth dripping of excess muddy liquid, his gaze fixed on the retreating petite figure, riding away on her bicycle. His face was as phlegmatic as ever, his icy stare lingering on the lucky lass. "Just say the word, Zay", his friend nudged. An almost inaudible sigh escaped his lips. He dug his finger into his hair, ruffling it a bit. He turned around and walked towards his car, not even sparing his friend a glance. As soon as he gets in, he shuts the car door, placing his head on the car's head rest while closing his eyes. His men understood the message and put down their guns. Jove shook his head and turned to walk to the car. "It's your first time, dude. What the heck happened?" He asked, walking into the car. "Take the wheels, Damon." His mesmerizing yet cold voice rang, ignoring Jove's question. Jove sighed dramatically and leant back on the seat, bringing out his phone - he was used to his best friend already. Zayde Stoll was the name. His name alone triggered lots of emotions - love, admiration, fear, hatred and every other feelings one could possibly have. He was dangerously handsome; an exact opposite of his real self. At 25, he already was the world's youngest billionaire, having the least number of ten companies in each country. His name made great men fall to their knees and everyone wondered how his fame grew that much. He was known to be eerily cold and he killed without second thoughts. He only needed to say the word and whoever would drop at his feet. He was a real description of a merciless demigod and people shook when he entered college. Jove was his best friend and the only person he talks to aside his Dad, despite their very striking differences. Jove complimented his name - he was one hell of a jovial person and really cheerful...but the heck, he was the world's biggest player. Although he condemned the manner with which Zayde handled his victims, he knew he couldn't do anything about it, having known Zayde since childhood. "Damon! You want to kill us?!" Jove suddenly yelled, yanking off the earpiece he had on. He had fallen back on impulse from the near death crash they barely escaped. He glanced at Zayde, a mistake at first, because the latter never acted like something just happened. His men kept stoic faces too, leaving him dumbfounded. "Am I the only living thing in this car? Because Damon almost sent us to our earliest graves and none of you will f**cking tell me you didn't see that!" Jove yelled. He was this close to being infuriated. Damon chuckled loudly. "It was only a mistake", he said with a shrug. "Yeah, a mistake that would've marked an end to my beautiful life", he said bluntly, his voice unable to mask the sarcasm. "You should be shameless at times, Jove." Boris said, turning back to look at Jove. Just then, Zayde put on his headphone with a slightly irritated huff, a clear indication everyone were disturbing him. They all shut up at once, returning to their previous activities. "You'll watch them kill me one day." Jove mumbled, sinking down into the seat.

Some exist with pride, others struggle with pride, some compete with pride, and there are those who fail with pride, but very few can walk away with pride. Congratulations, for as you read these lines, you have witnessed the whole lives of many great basketball players. This pronunciation was embodied when Stephen Curry, after facing defeat in 2021, claimed that no one would want to face them the following season; When Tim Duncan was convinced before the start of the 2014 Finals that they would not mess up; When Kobe Bryant promised at Old Buss's memorial to take the Lakers to the playoffs; When Nowitzki, shedding his label as a soft player, retreated to the locker room in tears at night; When Kevin Garnett let out a skyward howl after holding the championship trophy; When the 2004 Detroit Pistons won and the F4 Lakers lost… Our story begins in an era when pride still mattered.

Five years ago, she saved him but lost the most precious thing a girl could have. Five years later, he descended from the heavens to protect her peace and guard her safety. Yet, she said, "I'm sorry, but we're not familiar." He smirked, "I know about the birthmark on your body. Wouldn't you say we are familiar?" She harbored secrets, feigned weakness, and endured for many years. While she abided by the world, she was cold and evasive towards him. He held a high social status, controlling everything around him. He was cold-hearted towards the world, yet only tender down to the bone to her. Until one day, he pulled the little guy who was hiding behind her, "Stealthily making a miniature version of me and you say we're not familiar?" A small treasure stood in front of her, blinking and staring at him, "Mom said I popped out from a stone crack!"

In a world that is full of beast tamers, Samuel who lives with his sole parent, his father, is faced with a crisis when their village is attacked. It's on this occasion that he finds out that his father was also a beast tamer. But his strength was not capable of dealing with the beast that had attacked. His beast is killed and he suffers a backlash that leads to him being bedridden. As for the beast that attacked, it retreated after killing almost all the villagers. During his father's dying moments, he reveals that Samuel held a deep power within him and that he should go out and explore it. They had hidden in that village for over 18 years, to avoid the exploitation of his talent. As he finally leaves the village for the first time as long as he could remember, he finally ventures into the world, with a big secret hidden within him.

In her previous life, Lina Riley harbored an unrequited love for the Fifth Princess, Victoria Ashwood. Lina sacrificed everything for her—securing her place on the throne, protecting her borders, and losing her arm and sight in the process. Yet, her loyalty was repaid with a goblet of poisoned wine and the execution of her entire family. Victoria despised her, accusing Lina of cruelty and of orchestrating her elder sister’s death, deeming her unworthy of love. When the poison took effect, Lina closed her eyes in despair, only to awaken back in the moment they first met. On that fateful day, Lina had stumbled upon Victoria being beaten by palace maids, an encounter that set everything in motion. This time, Lina turned away, choosing a different path, but a faint fragrance of plum blossoms lured her in. One reckless night led to a moment of despair when she awoke to find the coldly beautiful face of her bedmate—Lucille Everard, the Princess Regent. Lucille, while outwardly uninterested in court affairs, was notorious for her swift and decisive actions that had seen emperors replaced with alarming frequency. Compared to Lucille’s power, Lina’s past dealings with Victoria seemed like mere child's play. As Lucille stirred awake, Lina's nerves were frayed. “Given the circumstances, Your Highness, what do you think of me now?” she asked, resigned to her fate. To her surprise, Lucille chuckled softly. “I think you’re wonderful.” Stunned, Lina could only manage a confused “Huh?” From that moment, everything veered off course. Lucille's palace soon bloomed with roses—Lina’s favorite. Amidst the swaying blossoms, the resolute Princess Regent would gently take Lina’s hand, her once-frigid gaze warm and tender. “My dear Lina, you are the finest woman in the world.” In her new life, Lina often dreamed. She dreamt of someone leaving a bouquet of roses at her grave, their robes trailing the light fragrance of plum blossoms. They sipped wine with a wry smile, murmuring, “Silly girl, I avenged you.” Victoria Ashwood was reborn too. She hadn’t expected that killing Lina would provoke her aunt’s ruthless revenge. Determined to avoid a similar fate, she resolved to feign affection for Lina, even if it took a lifetime. At a palace banquet, Victoria was taken aback by Lina’s beauty. Draped in fine silks, Lina was a dazzling sight, so different from the weathered woman Victoria remembered. Drawn to her, Victoria was about to approach when she noticed Lucille at Lina’s side, gently wiping her lips with a soft smile. “Take it slow,” Lucille murmured. Lina paused, then chuckled as she adjusted a strand of Lucille’s hair. Victoria’s heart twisted in fury. When her desperate attempts to win Lina back failed, she demanded, “Why won’t you love me?” Lina sneered. “Show some respect, Fifth Princess. You should address me as Aunt. Besides, your hypocrisy and cold-heartedness make you unworthy of love.” Years ago, a young Lucille Everard encountered a lost girl in the palace gardens. The girl declared that Lucille was beautiful and promised to marry her one day. Thirteen years later, a fateful misunderstanding during a bout of poisoning entwined their paths. What began as teasing quickly turned Lucille from a hunter into prey, helplessly ensnared by the woman she never forgot. Tags: 1. Cold yet protective Princess Regent × Reborn and resigned noblewoman 2. Nine-year age gap (Princess Regent is older) 3. Alternate history, non-patriarchal setting 4. Puppet empress, regent princess ruling behind the scenes 5. Two lifetimes of love, slow-burn romance

"The heavenly dog ​​rises from the earth and falls into the sunset. The sky is as red as blood, and the lucky star retreats into nothingness. In the vastness, a man stumbles forward, paving the way with difficulty, and blood is spilled with every step. Only a stalk of chrysanthemum withers behind him." This is a prophecy that no one can interpret, but some people say that this is my fate. Others say that the ritual officials are involved in yin and yang, are good at tombs, and cover up the secrets of heaven. The nobles of ancient times were all buried in their hands to protect future generations. In the end, they did not die well, and I could not escape it. But I don't accept it...

Zara's eyes were glued to Xavier's bare chest, unable to look away. The sculpted muscles, the deep V-line, the way his sweatpants hung low on his hips—she couldn't help but be captivated. It was as if her brain had short-circuited, and all logic had left her. She moved a step closer, almost unconsciously, her hand lifting as if to touch his chest. Before her fingers could make contact, Xavier's quick reflexes caught her wrist. His grip was firm, but not harsh, and he raised an eyebrow, looking at her with an amused expression. "What do you think you're doing?" he asked, his voice low but laced with a hint of teasing. Zara, startled but determined not to show weakness, scratched the back of her head awkwardly, trying to save face. "What do you mean? Why are you walking around shirtless?" she countered, trying to shift the focus off herself. Xavier's smirk deepened, his dark eyes glinting with mischief. "I'm not the one sneaking around in other people's rooms, Zara. You're the one who barged in here." Zara blinked, her mind scrambling to find an excuse. "Oh, right," she muttered, still not sure how to explain her behavior. She gave him a sheepish grin, but her eyes darted back to his chest, trying to look casual. "I was just… looking for something," she said, her words trailing off as she tried to think of a better lie. Xavier didn't buy it for a second. Slowly, he took a step forward, closing the distance between them. Zara instinctively took a step back, but Xavier followed, not giving her any space to escape. Her heart raced as she backed up again, trying to keep some distance between them, but Xavier wasn't making it easy. "Trying to run away now?" Xavier teased, his voice laced with playful challenge. He moved another step forward, and Zara continued retreating, her back now against the wall. Her breath hitched as she realized she had nowhere else to go. "I wasn't trying to run away," Zara said quickly, her voice a little too high-pitched. "Just, you know, I… I don't want to intrude. I just—"  But Xavier wasn't interested in her stammering excuses. His gaze remained locked on her, and as he stepped closer, his hand that had caught her wrist slowly slid down to her fingers, brushing against her skin. The gentle touch sent an unexpected shiver down her spine. Zara's heart hammered in her chest, and she took another step back, this time bumping into the wall with a soft thud. She couldn't help but feel the heat building between them, the tension so thick it was almost palpable. Xavier, now mere inches from her, tilted his head, his lips curling into a playful grin. "I think you're lying," he murmured, his voice soft, but full of mischief. "You were trying to touch my chest, weren't you?" Zara's face flushed with heat, and she tried to push back against him, but it was like trying to move a mountain. She cleared her throat, trying to recover some of her composure. "Maybe I was," she admitted, her voice low. "But, um… so what? It's not like you're making it easy to ignore." Xavier's grin widened as he leaned even closer, his body just inches away from hers. The closeness was overwhelming, and Zara's mind started to spin. She could feel the heat radiating off his chest, and she had to fight the urge to reach up and touch it again. "Is that so?" Xavier whispered, his breath warm against her ear. He placed his hand on the wall beside her head, trapping her in place as he stared down at her with a wicked gleam in his eyes. "You sure about that?".

In a world where video games served as a refuge from reality, a young man named Shiro found himself stuck in the monotonous grind of joblessness and academic stagnation after dropping out of college. His days were consumed by endless hours of virtual escapism, seeking solace in digital realms where he could be someone else, someone with purpose and excitement. One fateful night, Shiro decided to take a break from his virtual routine and venture outside, drawn by the serene allure of the moonlit sky. The streets were eerily deserted, devoid of any signs of life, as if the world itself had decided to retreat to slumber. As he strolled, lost in his thoughts, an unexpected and terrifying event unfolded before him. Out of nowhere, a pair of truck headlights, glowing like two malevolent eyes, emerged from the shadows, racing towards him with malicious intent. Panic gripped Shiro's heart, rendering him motionless, as he was unable to escape the impending collision. The screech of tires and the deafening crunch of metal engulfed the silent night, signifying the abrupt end to Shiro's unremarkable life. In that moment of despair, as he faced the cold embrace of death, Shiro's consciousness began to waver, teetering on the brink of oblivion. However, just when he accepted his inevitable fate, a strange and mysterious voice echoed in the depths of his mind, resonating with an otherworldly cadence. -- System is now online. -- The words reverberated through Shiro's soul, awakening a newfound awareness within him. As he reluctantly opened his eyes, a breathtaking sight greeted him. Gone were the familiar surroundings of his mundane world; instead, he found himself transformed into a truck, lying in a vast, verdant grass field, bathed in the gentle glow of a foreign moon. Startled and bewildered by his unexpected resurrection as a mechanical behemoth, Shiro struggled to come to terms with his new existence. The voice in his mind, now identified as the "System," offered cryptic explanations about his reincarnation and the role he was destined to play in this uncharted realm. With the System granting him abilities and a mission to fulfill, Shiro embraced his peculiar form and set forth on a journey of self-discovery and adventure. As he navigated through this enchanting but treacherous world, he encountered a diverse array of beings – mystical creatures, enigmatic spirits, and formidable adversaries. Each encounter offered valuable lessons, forging him into a wiser and more resilient individual. Guided by the enigmatic System and fueled by his insatiable curiosity, Shiro unraveled the secrets of the world's ancient past and its precarious future. Along the way, he formed deep connections with fellow adventurers, all hailing from different corners of the realm, each carrying their own burdens and dreams. However, his path was fraught with challenges and heart-wrenching choices, testing his morality and resolve. The allure of power beckoned, but Shiro remained steadfast in his quest for purpose beyond mere strength. As he made difficult decisions, he realized the true essence of heroism: not the wielding of power, but the strength to protect those he cared for, even at the cost of personal sacrifice. Through trials and tribulations, Shiro discovered that his reincarnation as a truck was no mere accident. It was a catalyst for change, a chance to rewrite the narrative of his life and create a legacy that would ripple through the ages. In a stunning climax, where courage clashed with adversity and hope wrestled against despair, Shiro stood firm, determined to leave an indelible mark on this extraordinary tapestry of existence. His journey had come full circle, from being a jobless, unremarkable college dropout to a legendary figure whose name would be whispered in awe and reverence for generations to come.

[COMPLETED] Old Title: Seven Days Chase A short story about a slightly amnesiac fudanshi who hides his real face and also crossdresses. ~#~#~#~#~#~ Ling Xie, our fudanshi protagonist, juggles three distinct identities. As Ling Xie, he’s just an ordinary college student. As Cao Chang, he’s the son of a renowned fashion designer. And as Churong, he’s a famous part-time matchmaker with a growing reputation. But after a careless mistake—and an unexpected live kabedon scene that set them up—Ling Xie’s life takes an unpredictable turn when he meets Chen Yi. With Chen Yi’s relentless and aggressive pursuit, Ling Xie’s carefully constructed walls crumble one by one in just a single week, leaving him with no room to hide and nowhere to retreat. ~#~#~#~#~#~ [M] = [MATURE CONTENT]

3000 years ago, a group of beings known as vampires invaded our land causing havoc and mayhem in the city. They are called the blood suckers. But from nowhere another group of beings appeared and started fighting the blood suckers, they protected the humans from the vampires. They are called the werewolves, protectors of the human race. The werewolves being the superior beings fought and won the vampires. When the vampires saw that their number is decreasing day by day, they decided to retreat and stay hiding in the forest for the main time until they can get more armies . Currently the vampires , having fortified thselves and increased their numbers are now out in the open, more confident about themselves, attacking both humans and werewolves. Now a Vampire soothsayer revealed to the leader of the Vampires, Magnus, that the only way they can win over the wolves is through the CHOSEN ONE and he/she must be born a vampire, Now, Everyone knows vampires aren't born from birth, rather they were humans who were bittten by another vampire, so while the werewolves are still in oblivion to what is happening, the vampires are busy looking for a way to give birth to their CHOSEN ONE.

The Apocalypse is in full swing. Defiled - powerful creatures corrupted by the Great Collision - prowled the lands in search of prey. Unfortunately for them, the human race had long since retreated behind the secure walls of the Sanctuary of Everlast. During one of his regular excursions outside the Sanctuary, Alden is separated from Celeste. - his childhood friend and crush. In that moment, he came to regret never summoning the courage to confess. Somehow managing to survive thanks to some trickery, Alden awakens as a mage. Instead of receiving a normal power, he gains the ability to decay. What's more, during his ascension, he received a vision from his future self advising him not to trust the Asterons - celestial beings who had saved his race from inescapable doom. Normally... such a revelation wouldn’t faze Alden. However, there was only one major problem with the declaration, though. Celeste was bound with an Asteron. And not just any normal Asteron... She had made a pact with one of the Divine Sovereigns. ________ Cover is not mine. I found it on Pinterest. Link to discord server: https://discord.gg/VPEtsc4c

"The Cold CEO's Delicate Wife" is an ABO boss romance novel. The male lead has feelings for someone else but is forced to marry the naïve and sweet female lead due to family obligations. The female lead endures years of torment and coldness before the male lead finally realizes his mistake and returns to live happily ever after with his wife. Unfortunately, Shi Yue transmigrates into this story as the delicate wife who shares her name. Upon arriving, she immediately faces the grand engagement party with the scumbag male lead. He will leave her alone at the event after receiving a call from his true love, leaving her to face scorn and ridicule. Shi Yue refuses to sit and wait for her doom. But just when she has all her revenge plans set up, someone always shows up at the crucial moment to disrupt her schemes. That person is none other than the male lead's proud and protective aunt, Leng Yanmi. Shi Yue realizes clearly that if she wants to take down the scumbag male lead, she must first deal with this obstacle, Leng Yanmi. But how can she handle a villainess boss who is far superior to the male lead in every way? Shi Yue decides to throw herself into the fray. "Auntie, I don't care who he likes, because I also have someone in my heart." Thinking at least she could disgust Leng Yanmi and keep her from interfering in her matters with Leng Mingchuan, she didn't expect things to spiral out of control in another direction. Leng Yanmi: "You shouldn't interfere with my and Shi Yue's affairs. She's in love with me." The male lead rages in frustration: "Aunt, can't you see she's just playing with you?" "Playing with me? Impossible," Leng Yanmi says firmly. "She loves me to death. She can't go a day without seeing me. How could she be playing with me?" The male lead tries to speak, but Leng Yanmi already has him retreat to reflect on his actions. After dealing with the annoying fly, she turns to call Shi Yue. "We haven't seen each other today. Are you coming over, or should I come to you?" Not waiting for Shi Yue's answer, she continues on her own, "Forget it. It's troublesome to go back and forth every day. Pack up and move in with me... Or I can move in with you." Shi Yue: "..." Oh no, she went too far. [Please note: The cover is AI-generated and does not depict elements from the story] [This novel is translated, 2-3 chapters / 2 days, CT: 云朵糖]

Reeling from the shame, anger, embarrassment of his break up with the love of his life publicly, Kieran White had gotten involved with a common waitress at the pub he visited. They had hit it off and soon had a one night stand that led to them signing a contract marriage of five years so Kieran could head his family's business. What Edwina Hall had thought was a dream come true soon came shattering with a reality so blindly forced into her face when her husband asked her to sign the divorce papers he presented to her. Devastated, she had signed the papers and had left her cold-hearted ex-husband alone only to realize that she was pregnant with his son. Five years later, the duo crossed part in the most unlikely places and this time, the tables had turned as Kieran would do anything to get Edwina to notice him and most importantly, be with him again. Would Edwina continue to feign indifference to the man who had her heart and the father of her son or would she ignore him and move on with someone else?

Despise To Love You- "Love conquers all...or does it?" Enter the enigmatic world of Xavier Cavanaugh, a renowned film director haunted by a troubled past and fueled by a relentless quest for revenge. Love and romance are distant notions, buried deep within his hardened heart. However, everything changes when Midnight Hazelwood, an enchanting model and actress, catches his eye. At first, he feigns disdain for her, determined to keep his emotions at bay. Yet, a flicker of intense attraction ignites within him when he witnesses her watching him with adoration. Despite his best effort to resist, fate intervenes, orchestrating a series of events that draw them closer together. As their undeniable connection intensifies, Xavier and Midnight find themselves entangled in a passionate affair they can no longer deny. But between them stands, a number of secrets, buried past stories, especially when both the both of them are hiding something.

This is the story of a modern man who transmigrates to 16th-century India in a parallel world after dying to save his first crush on a date. He regresses as a lowly-ranked soldier in the camp of Hemu, the last northern Hindu king, who is fated to lose and die at the hands of the Mughals. With his modern knowledge and past experiences, the protagonist alters the course of history, forcing the Mughals to surrender and retreat beyond the Ravi River, which is in modern-day Pakistan. As a reward, he is granted trading rights and becomes the emperor’s personal attendant. Using this opportunity, he sets out to reshape the empire. By promoting private enterprise, establishing trading company, and creating opportunities for the lower communities, he begins to shift India’s economy away from the feudal system toward modern capitalism. And all this began with the advent of his mercenary army, which excelled in firearms far ahead of its time. His journey is filled with trials, including internal turmoil, political strife, and the looming threat of invasion from the Mughals in the west, Tibet from the north and the Dutch and Portuguese in the south. As the emperor’s trusted aide, the protagonist not only rescues the crumbling empire but also forges his own path, eventually claiming the title of emperor himself. Join him on this incredible journey of empire's ascension, as he explores how India could have been in the 16th century if history had taken a different course. With just one battle's result, the fate of the entire world is transformed. Discord : https://discord.com/invite/pSeBQUVRrf  Discord id: jeet_author_1993 (for direct contact) Notes: Don't forget to check sample work and maps in aux as glimpse of this novel Disclaimer: This is a fictional story based on history in alternate universe. It doesn't claims to be always historically correct. Reader's discretion is advised. All images used are AI based. Feel free to contact me in case you have any dispute.

Brian Bladeheart, the second son of a noble Viscount, appears to be an unremarkable young man in a world of advanced magic and aristocracy. But beneath his quiet demeanor lies a secret: Brian retains the memories of his past life on Earth and has a unique ability to bring skills and power from a virtual game into reality. In the magical land of Rondell, divided into four continents and 20 counties, society is marked by its obsession with status and a mysterious relic known as "Genesis"—an artifact left by the legendary Archduke Eno Lyta. This relic, which holds unimaginable power and knowledge, has remained hidden for decades, igniting a frenzy among nobles and commoners alike. Brian’s life is far from idyllic. Poisoned at a young age, he retreats into a gaming addiction to mask his genius and avoid his stepmother Asetie’s schemes. But when his virtual success leads him to uncover the true Genesis in the game "Psalm Online," Brian’s life takes a dramatic turn. This discovery not only grants him extraordinary powers but also begins to synchronize his gaming achievements with his physical abilities, making him a formidable force. However, this new strength brings challenges. From navigating family rivalries and court politics to surviving dangerous quests in both the real and virtual worlds, Brian must rely on his wits, past-life knowledge, and newfound powers to protect himself and his loved ones. Along the way, he encounters powerful allies, including a mysterious supporter from the game, Arcia of the Heavens, who materializes in real life to aid him. As Brian delves deeper into the secrets of Eno Lyta and the Genesis, he uncovers ties to Earth and faces the daunting reality of being sent to a battlefield by his family. Can Brian outwit his enemies, master his powers, and survive the chaos of both worlds? Or will the weight of the Genesis's legacy prove too great? "Genesis" is a gripping tale of survival, strategy, and self-discovery in a world where magic and reality collide.

In a world in a distant universe similar to ours, dragons were the supreme rulers for millions of years. But one day, a supernova struck their planet, making it uninhabitable for hundreds of thousands of years and killing almost all life on its surface. When the catastrophe ended, the decimated dragons struggled to recover, while other races rose up and became the new rulers, hunting the surviving dragons and forcing them to retreat away from civilization. The dragons fell back into bestiality and violence, regressing further and further until they were little more than animals. Now, dragons are a species on the verge of extinction, and nothing would seem able to change their fate... or maybe not? Haku, one of the youngest member of a dying species that struggle to survive, refuses this. He decides it's not right to surrender to the rules of that difficult and terrible world into which he had the misfortune to be born, and he doesn't want his brothers and sisters to do it either. He believes that there must be something else, some other way to live without fear. So, let's follow the journey of Haku and his siblings, a journey that will take them across the world and beyond, against a fate that none of them is willing to accept.

[My WSA 2024 Entry novel! Please vote] In a world where mythical beings have fallen into an "eternal slumber," a thriving underground market exploits the stolen essence of these dormant creatures. At its epicenter are dragons—majestic beings desired for their scales, organs, and prized eggs. The most coveted treasure of all is a dragon's name, a key that holds the power to control its very existence. Dragon Lord, guardian of a clutch of dormant eggs, lives in isolation atop a hill, surrounded by a forest that veils his castle. He bears the scars of past betrayals, having been deceived by those who feigned love to steal his treasures or claim his head as a bounty. Jaded and cold, he trusts no one, living a solitary existence. However, his solitude is shattered when a woman unwittingly stumbles into his life. Yara finds herself in Dragon Lord's treasured den amidst a battle between the dragon and thieves. In a twist of fate, she mistakenly bonds with the dormant eggs, breathing life into them. Reluctantly, Dragon Lord allows Yara into his world, and their journey unfolds amid the looming threat of underground organizations seeking to exploit the dragons for profit. As the eggs come to life, so does an unexpected connection between Dragon Lord and Yara. Despite his cold and jaded exterior, he finds himself unable to ignore her presence. Yara, too, cannot deny the pull she feels towards him, and emotions begin to burn beneath the surface. Together, they must navigate the challenges of waiting for the eggs to hatch, fend off those who seek to exploit the dragon and its offspring, and confront the secrets that Yara harbors—a revelation that could destroy everything. In this tale of flames and gold, two scarred souls in a world where trust is a rare and precious commodity must confront the ghosts of their pasts. They navigate the dangerous currents of love and deception, protecting unborn dragons from a world hungry for their magic. Will their bond withstand the trials ahead, or will the flames of betrayal engulf them in the end? A/N: It starts out SLOW, because I tend to get lost in the pages and be descriptive but once it gets to the action, it really picks up! Looking forward to growing with you all on this journey!!!

Years ago, the emergence of mutated creatures known as Kyrennei turned eighty percent of the world into uninhabitable dead zones. To survive, humanity retreated into fortress cities scattered across the globe. Amid this chaos, a rare few, known as Brands, successfully bonded with Kyrennei, gaining extraordinary abilities. Maxwell, a young man at the lowest point of his life, is thrust into this dangerous world when he accidentally brands with a Grasshopper Kyrennei. Lacking combat experience and facing a society that values power above all, Maxwell must navigate a perilous landscape filled with serial killers, monstrous creatures, alien threats, and even so-called heroes. Armed with his wits, determination, and an unconventional bond, Maxwell is determined to rise above it all and carve out his place in this treacherous new reality.

The Dungeon. A harsh world where death is a constant companion. Powerful monsters roam freely, and every element—terrain, flora, and environment—conspires to eliminate intruders. The moment you step inside, there are no guarantees for your life. Many lose their sanity before their bodies give out, and even if they manage to survive, only a rare few escape unscathed. —At least, that’s how it’s supposed to be. "Alright, let's have another fun day of solo camping!" Deep within the uncharted depths of an S-Rank Dungeon, a man casually streams his solo camping adventures. The man’s name is Shahzad. *** - "Wait, hold on. Did he just say he cleared forty floors of an S-Rank Dungeon? That’s a world first, isn’t it?" - "He just casually drops groundbreaking information like it’s nothing. This is why I can’t stop watching his streams!" - "Why does he never look at the comments? He always just streams one-sidedly!" - "Wait, did he just hunt a Three-Head? By himself? That’s the kind of monster even A-Rank parties immediately retreat from!" - "What even is this guy?" *** Every time Shahzad streams, the entire world is thrown into chaos. Yet, for some reason, the man himself seems blissfully unaware. Just who is he, really? [A/N: Also publishing in royalroad.com by the same context!]

#KINGDOMBUILDING #MILITARY #SLICEOFLIFE Un groupe d'amis en la noirceur de la nuit se font dévorer par un phénomène pour qui le mot d'étrange n'est point suffisant a le décrire . Années 1200 les Almohade/Al Muwahhidun une entité surpuissante règne en maître sur l'Afrique du nord et la péninsule Ibérique , rien et personne n'aurait pus prédire que cette même superpuissance vivait ses dernières heures de gloire et qu'une sombre ère qui allait durer la moitié d'un siècle pointait son nez sur le cœur de cet empire du Maghreb . Nos protagonistes se retrouvent en plein dans la tourmente de cette période trouble où Sultans/Califes de l'empire se succèdent a un rythme alarmant rappelant la période l'Empire Romain d'Occident , la criminalité connais une hausse , l'empire recule de face aux chrétiens Ibériques et les dynasties vassales à l'empire , pour la première fois depuis 2 siècles les routes commerciales transSaharienne , d'Al Andalus et du Maghreb son sujettes à des raids constants des bandits et criminels en tous genres , le commerce ralentit , l'instabilité se repend , les vivres et marchandises ne circulent plus , les famines accompagnées d'épidémies se déclarent dans tous l'empire , les officiers et bureaucrates de l'empire meurts de façon étrange et misterieuse , ceux qui leur succèdent ne font chaque années que renforcer leur image d'incompétence et de corruption , tous dans l'empire espèrent un messie qui les sauveras eux et cet dernier rempart de l'Occident islamique des loups affamés d'Europe . que fera nos protagonistes pour survivre et vivre en cette période trouble et confuse ? parviendront ils a survivre face aux imprévus de la vie en cet empire qui n'est qu'une simulations titanesques du concept de décadence. English version A group of friends in the dark of night are devoured by a phenomenon for which the word "strange" is not enough to describe it. In the year 1200, the Almohads/Al Muwahhidun, an overpowering entity, reigned supreme over North Africa and the Iberian Peninsula. Nothing and no-one could have predicted that this same superpower was living out its final hours of glory and that a dark era that would last half a century was about to dawn on the heart of this Maghreb empire. Our protagonists find themselves in the midst of the turmoil of this troubled period, when the empire's sultans and caliphs succeed one another at an alarming rate, reminiscent of the period of the Western Roman Empire, crime is on the rise, the empire is retreating in the face of the Iberian Christians and the dynasties vassal to the empire, for the first time in 2 centuries the trans-Saharan trade routes of Al Andalus and the Maghreb are subject to constant raids by bandits and criminals of all kinds, Trade was slowing down, instability was spreading, food and goods were no longer circulating, famines accompanied by epidemics were breaking out throughout the empire, the empire's officers and bureaucrats were dying in strange and misterious ways, and those who succeeded them every year only reinforced their image of incompetence and corruption, everyone in the empire was hoping for a messiah who would save them and this last bulwark of the Islamic West from the the hungry wolves of Europe. What will our protagonists do to survive and live in these troubled and confused times? Will they manage to survive in the face of the unforeseen events of life in this empire, which is nothing more than a titanic simulation of the concept of decadence?

Kael Draven, the strongest human who fought against the Anthi-Org—a universal threat set on conquering the universe—was betrayed by one of his own when victory was almost within reach. He and his allies were known as the Exo Primevals, the first to wield an Exoskeleton suit known as Aegis Prime—a powerful piece of equipment created by the most advanced species to finally destroy the Anthi-Org and end the war. But with his teammate betrayal, Kael was sealed away in impenetrable ice, his people’s planets fell under enemy control, and the Anthi-Org rose to dominance. The Exo Primevals were forced to retreat, doing what they could to salvage what remained of their worlds. Countless lives were lost. Centuries passed, and Kael’s icy prison eventually shattered. The strongest human—or what used to be—woke up in a future he barely recognized. Learning that the Anthi-Org won, Kael is now driven by revenge. He vows to find the one who betrayed him and finish what he started. The war may be lost, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be reignited. --- Additional Tags: Cold blooded protagonist, Smut, S*x Scenes, Antihero, *sshole Protagonist and more, mainly for flexibility. What to expect: This novel is LitRPG. If you are a fan of Power Rangers/Kamen Rider, Warframe, and other Suit related novel/movies/shows then this is for you. Try to read for at least 20 chapters and see if this novel fits your taste. It's slow at first as the world and structure of the story is forming along the way.

Aeloria’s Heir When Caelia Lysander retreats to her family’s old countryside home, she expects a quiet reprieve—until a single impulsive act changes everything. Seeking shelter from an unsettling night, she steps into an ancient wardrobe and emerges into Aeloria, a world brimming with magic, secrets, and an ominous history tied to her family. Once a land of wonder, Aeloria was ravaged by greed and war, its magic fractured and its future sealed by an angel’s desperate act. The wardrobe, meant to protect the modern world, has waited centuries for the one destined to unlock its mysteries. Caelia’s arrival is no accident—her bloodline carries the answers Aeloria seeks and the power to save it. Guided by Theo Blackthorn, a brooding heir with his own burdened legacy, Caelia must confront the shadows of Aeloria’s past and the truth of her own. But as rival forces close in, the line between friend and foe blurs, and the weight of destiny grows heavier. Can she rise as the heir Aeloria needs, or will the secrets of her lineage destroy her—and both worlds?

On a quiet, nearly empty train, two young men collide, their eyes meeting as if by fate. To anyone else, it might seem like a fleeting encounter. But for them, it’s the unearthing of a shared history—one filled with years of innocent friendship, tender love, and eventual heartbreak. Known only as “Spring” and “Summer,” their lives were once intertwined, their bond forged through childhood and high school. But that was three years ago. At 20, both are scarred by the fallout of what was once sweet and hopeful. Now, as Spring attempts to retreat, the train doors slide shut, trapping him with Summer—the boy he once loved, who now regards him with disdain. Summer sits down, his glare sharp and unforgiving, refusing to break the silence. Spring hesitates, caught between his lingering feelings and the weight of his guilt. The train moves forward, and so does their unspoken tension. Can time and distance mend the fractures in their hearts, or are they destined to remain two seasons that could never coexist?

In a world of normalcy, where daily life unfolded as expected, everything changed the day the sun vanished. During an ordinary day in Filgrum, the sun inexplicably disappeared, plunging the world into an endless, unnatural night. Amid the confusion, the hidden horrors of humanity’s neighbors emerged lycanthropes, vampires, and ghouls, creatures who once hid behind human facades, now revealed their true forms. Their goal was the annihilation of humanity, whom they deemed impure. Overwhelmed and defenseless, humanity retreated into bunkers, seeking refuge from the chaos above. In the depths of these shelters, humanity began to rebuild, adapting to their grim reality. Yet survival came at a cost, as factions of bunkers turned on each other in desperate struggles for resources, creating a new world fraught with peril, both from within and without. This story starts forty-five years after the event known as "The Endless Night" with Lucas Pendragon an orphaned boy with no interest in fighting and no friends often being outcasted and bullied but when a natural once a month event known as "The hunt" threw his life of normalcy and bullying onto a completely new path with unnatural events and weird but interesting people. With Lucas's life now in a constant state of motion will he survive the ashes of a ruined world or will everything he built go up in smoke