Drawing Circle

The Last Magus Emperor, Myrddin Wyllt, fought to his death in battle against the Demon Emperor. 1500 years later Merlin, a 29 year old mage of the Dawnsedge Sword Sect, stuck in the 1st circle initiate realm inherits Myrddin’s spirit after suffering mana deviation. The year is 1224 L.E. (Last Emperor)

What is the martial world? Is it about having unbeatable martial arts, ruling the world, being everyone's enemy, or stirring up chaos? In his previous life, Su Xin died while trying to save someone. In this life, he was framed because he trusted his friend. Good people never live long, and their misfortunes last for centuries. This time, he decided to become the most ruthless and evil person! So, he activated the Ultimate Villain System. With the most powerful boss system, he could obtain the martial arts and combat skills of all the boss characters from the previous martial arts world. "Congratulations, host, for drawing the character Jin Wuming. It comes with the martial art manual 'Jin Wuming's Swift Sword'."" ""Congratulations, host, for drawing the character Yin Zhiping. It comes with the martial art manual 'Quanzhen Sect's Basic Internal Skill' and the combat skill 'Quanzhen Sect's Basic Sword Technique'." "Congratulations, host, for drawing the character Chu Zhaonan. It comes with seven martial art manuals, including 'Wind Chasing Sword Technique,' 'Great Vajra Sword Style,' and 'Tianshan Sword Technique.'" The strongest villain in history is born!

The City of Hatlynshire is ruled by two opposing forces. The Order of Man, a shadow government ruled over by an autocratic dictator and the Circle, a hidden community of telekinetic people descended from a magic forest and ruled by eight powerful industrialist Barons and their Houses. The story follows the perspectives of multiple lead characters. Baron Henry Demon, the wealthy head of one of Hatlynshire's nine Boroughs, who grapples with the death of the man he had idolized all his life and the weight of the mounting pressure as the Circle heads towards a deadly war with their sworn enemy. Tensions which are worsened by internal disputes brought upon by a missing heir and a secretive insurgent who plots to rise up against the Barons and change the Circle from within. Lucian Demon, Henry's son and reluctant heir who deals with the issues and self-doubt created by expectations he was born to fulfill. As his dreaded Initiation Ceremony comes closer his worries are increased by the news of the Circle's conflict and a mysterious oncoming threat that would lead to the demise of him and everyone he loves. So he must work with both his family and his friends to uncover the secrets of their parents and hopefully survive whatever doom that's coming to the House at No 9, Allison Street. Anna Dawton, a common girl living in a secret Hamlet for Circulions in a Borough of theaters and drama, who deals with the threat of her home becoming a battleground when war arises after the seat of Everton is left empty in the wake of a car bombing. With her older sister, a vigilante outlaw bent on revenge against the Order of Man and her surrogate father figure, a kind bartender with a tragic yet legendary past. With her friends and family she attempts to survive the Hunters sent to kill her and her people while also trying to uncover the lies and secrets of the man in charge of her home. As this story unfolds, mysteries begin to reveal themselves. The treachery of an insurgent bent on justice for old sins, the plans of the dictator Timothy Montgomery and the Order of Man. The millennia long prophecies of eldritch gods and peoples long forgotten. And the many mysteries of a vengeful Baron and his broken House. All this comes together in a conflict that will shake the City of Hatlynshire to its core. The King sits upon his Moorish throne, his eternal children praise his name, for the sins of the old the young shall atone, returning once more from the Flame...

In a world where magic thrives and shadows linger, Changra Leville is a boy haunted by a fractured past. One moment, he’s navigating the mundane struggles of high school; the next, he’s thrust into a realm teetering on the edge of ruin. Armed with a mysterious crimson dagger that feeds on his emotions, Changra must confront a destiny he never asked for—one that could bring salvation or destruction. As whispers of forgotten gods and ancient prophecies surface, Changra discovers that the greatest battles are not always fought with steel, but within the heart. Will he rise to the challenge or be consumed by the darkness he fears most? Changra blinked as a small, green, fox-like creature with caterpillar legs padded toward him, its glowing tongue flicking the air. “What... even are you?” Changra asked, leaning back cautiously as it let out a melodic chirp. The creature tilted its head and chirped again, louder this time. It darted forward, brushing against his leg. “Okay, no. Boundaries! Haven’t you ever heard of personal space?” Changra yelped, stumbling back and nearly tripping over a glowing mushroom. The creature trilled happily, circling him with what seemed like the world's most confident caterpillar swagger. Changra sighed, rubbing his temples. Great. I’ve been here for less than a day, and I’m already the unofficial babysitter for alien fox bugs. Author's Note: Hi! This is going to be my first ever WebNovel. I'll take any suggestions, and eventually, I'll create a discord that everyone can chat up in and give ideas as the story goes on. This is a work of fiction that draws upon the idea of transportation into another world. This is a completely original story, with completely original characters. Chapters Released Every Other Day! (At the moment)

"I strengthened my body to run there. I grabbed the brush, and the blood on my hand soaked it. But I didn't care about that's all. I started drawing a summoning circle on the altar of the sun temple. My blood dripped between my drawings. And what is this... Is my tears also dripping? Please... hold on... hold on to all this, Elena... I begged to my weary body. My circle was finished and I knelt in front of it and began to chant my spell. "O deus totius lucis, da mihi gloriam tuam! Nuntium mitte ut populum tuum salvet!" (Oh god of all light, give me your glory! Send a messenger to save your people!) The blood flowed more rapidly in my hand, soaking my body. But I didn't care about all that. I have to hold on... I must! "Pandite portas mundi... Venite heroes... Portas Heroum!!!" (Open the gates of the world... Come heroes... Gate of Heroes!!!) Then the light came, shining very brightly, giving me a glimmer of hope. And there appeared a figure of a man in clothes like a blanket wrapped around his body. He was holding a sword in his hand. Hope... a hope has arrived!" This novel tells the story of Elena Fearis, a Priest (light mage), who uses forbidden magic to summon a hero from another world to save her village from the savage attacks of orges. The one she summons is Ryuji Honda, a samurai from the Edo period of Japan. How does the adventure of Elena Fearis and Ryuji Honda continue? This is my second light novel, blending fantasy, action, and romance. Hope u enjoy it!

Hunter, a bold transfer student, finds himself thrust into the unfamiliar halls of a prestigious, Japanese-dominated school. From the moment he steps onto campus, he realizes he’s out of his depth—cultural norms, strict rules, and a school hierarchy that doesn’t tolerate stepping out of line. But none of that prepares him for his first encounter with Yukio—a charming yet unapologetically eccentric girl who takes a peculiar interest in him. What begins as a budding friendship takes a bizarre turn when Yukio reveals her true nature: she’s a self-proclaimed “perverted entity.” Intrigued and not one to back down, Hunter challenges her with a bold claim—he’s more perverted than she is. Thus begins an outrageous competition that spirals into a series of escalating dares, pranks, and teasing moments that blur the line between rivalry and romance. However, the stakes are far greater than Hunter realizes. The school’s ironclad rules, enforced ruthlessly by the Principal and a formidable Student Council, leave no room for misconduct. As Hunter’s antics with Yukio and a growing circle of admirers draw more attention, the Student Council begins to see him as a threat to the school’s pristine reputation. Yet, despite their suspicions, Hunter’s cunning ensures they can’t pin any infractions on him. Future of this novel - This has a high chance of being adapted into a manga, This will require obviously a fanbase and funding. If this light novel get's high traction, I'll make this happen. Fun facts about this story - The protagonist, isn't a pussy, do what you will with that information. This is an original novel so a-lot of time was placed into making this light novel. Hope you enjoy! This site is being funny about the Cover art, you can also read the novel here : https://f95zone.to/threads/im-more-perverted-than-you-by-hoppypop.234604/

Numira is a realm teeming with bonds that transcend the ordinary—bonds with monsters, fierce and beautiful, that forge an unbreakable connection between humanoid and beast. These bonds are not just about power; they hint at a deeper, more intimate connection, where trust and desire intertwine. Adventures await Lyra, drawing her toward encounters that will challenge her courage, ignite her spirit, and reveal the true depth of the bonds she forms. ~~~~ DISCLAIMER: Futa main character Futa x Male, Futa x Futa,

Zar: The Last Umbraxian Zar is a professor at the esteemed Arcadia Institute in the remote region of Velandor, dedicated to studying and preserving ancient magics. His fascination with the lost art of Umbraxis—one of the five foundational magics of Xandria—grows as he uncovers traces of its remnants within the depths of a restricted laboratory. Although Umbraxis has been considered extinct for generations, lingering particles hint at its continued existence, drawing Zar into a risky pursuit of knowledge that challenges the boundaries of what is forbidden.

Sequel to Lord of Mysteries

Qing Xia struggled in the apocalypse, living a life worse than death. He had always envied those who died early, spared from experiencing this wretched existence after the world's end: black, polluted air; barren, cracked lands; toxic, contaminated water; and humans who no longer looked human at all. He truly wanted to escape this life, but he couldn't—not after his family sacrificed their lives so he could survive. So, he fought. He struggled. He bled, sweated, and cried until he became one of the last survivors on this desolate earth. However, during one of his team's routine purification missions, Qing Xia died... He thought that was the end, but he didn't expect to be reborn—in the body of an idol, no less! And this idol was on the verge of being kicked out of the entertainment industry. "Fine, whatever. I'll retire and become an otaku. I'll eat, drink, and sleep in peace…" In this peaceful world, he wanted to live his new life as Sian to the fullest, and in the best way possible. But... Could someone please tell me... Why am I in a forest? Why do I have to participate in this stupid variety show? What the hell is this...? Secret agent? Hitmen? Terrorists and underworld figures? Smugglers?... Damn it, damn it, leave me alone! I just want to live a lazy otaku life. Go do your business far away from me. Sian tried to live quietly, but life rarely goes as planned…And the winds do not blow as the ships wish. He found himself entangled in situations he could never escape. ---------------------------- Someone: "Darling, help me deal with these people." Sian: "Stay away from me. I have nothing to do with you or them." Someone, with fake tears: "Darling, I’m hurt. Come kiss me here, and the pain will go away." Sian, holding a military knife: "Does it hurt there? How about I just cut it off for you?" Someone, stripping Sian’s clothes: "Darling, you look so beautiful when you’re angry. I can’t take it anymore." Sian: "Go to hell! Ah—ahh! Stop it—stop! That hurts! Quit biting me, you damn dog!"      ---------------------------------------     Dear readers, welcome to an exciting adventure! This is a captivating BL novel filled with +18 scenes that add a spark of joy and love and some sadness. If you’re open to exploring vibrant stories and vibrant connections, dive right in to accompany our Angel, the MC " Sian," on his journey in this new world.

Emilia Yoon, mourning her mother's death, finds solace on a beach one morning, catching the eye of artist James Kim. Captivated, he secretly sketches her and leaves her the drawing, thinking their paths won't cross again. Fate intervenes one night, bringing them together unexpectedly. As their connection deepens, they navigate grief, love, and life's unpredictability together. *Updated every Thursday evening*

Suwon, a cold and ambitious student, has spent her life striving for perfection, only to be overshadowed by Hanbin, the school’s flawless top student with an unsettling warmth. But Hanbin hides a dark truth. Beneath his charming facade, he weaves subtle manipulations, drawing Suwon closer to the darkness she’s always feared. As secrets unravel and forbidden forces awaken, Suwon faces a chilling choice: uncover Hanbin’s true identity or fall deeper into his web of intrigue, where love and destruction intertwine.

What is Life? And Why People who arent living loves to haunt living people. and why the haunted living people after dying loves to haunt other living people. Why is this cycle circling?

Jonady Kaya 19 years old loved literature and studying history books leaving university after obtaining his results he went to a store to buy an iPhone but suddenly successful invocation circle he was transported to another world this is the beginning of the adventure of our hero.

This story circling about living in Indonesian mafia world about a period 2014, and the rise of a new gangs empire in Province of Riau and district of Kampar. Teguh who called 'Banjarman' in his gangs, killed and betrayed by his gang that accused him as a 'rat'. Then reincarnated to highschool junior, he will decide wether or not walk to the path of vengeance with other man who trapped in the world.

.

{I have uploaded next chapters on RoyalRoad} In a world where Qi cultivation leads to immortality, Riu Xian, a reincarnated martial artist from the Murim world, struggles to survive in a hostile cultivation society. Born into a frail body with blocked meridians and cast aside as worthless, he faces insurmountable odds. Drawing on his past life's knowledge of Ki and martial techniques, he unlocks a hidden potential that defies the norms of this new world. What to expect: - Competent MC - Adventure - 90% Focus on MC throughout the story - Reasonably paced level ups. - Treasure Hunting - No harem, No BL, No GL.

Wenyan read a book in which a cannon-fodder character sharing her name was a false heiress. After the true heiress assumed her position, the impostor tried to secure her place in the wealthy family by drugging the eldest son and making a done deal out of a cooked rice, only to be unmasked by the Shen Family and end up committing suicide in despair. Wenyan was furious to see such an ending. How could one not survive without the backing of a wealthy family? Hadn't the family provided her with a luxury house and countless luxury goods? Just selling those off would fetch tens of millions. She was just a hopeless case! If she were the Wenyan in the book, she would have relinquished her position and just lived laid-back like a salted fish! But when she woke up from her sleep, she actually transmigrated into the book. True to her word, she stopped scheming. Overnight she packed her bags, sold her house, car, and bags, and looked for a job. - The entire Shen Family noticed the change in Wenyan, their adopted daughter. Not only had she moved out obediently, but she also never caused any trouble again. Even more bizarre was that they could now see her innermost thoughts! 【Dad, Mom, I never wanted to usurp your nest, but the DNA test results of the true daughter have issues. In fact, she's even more fake than I, the bogus heiress.】 Shen Family parents: ...... Then the long-lost 'daughter' who had been found was exposed as an impostor and taken away by the police for questioning. 【Big brother, that schoolmate of yours is no good, he's a corporate spy, the illegitimate child of the Shen Family's archenemies.】 Shen Family's eldest son: ...... Afterwards, the schoolmate got caught stealing confidential documents and was also taken away by the police for questioning. 【Second brother, you are such a pure and noble person, you mustn't be with the Qin Family's daughter, she's just using you, her heart is actually set on someone else.】 Shen Family's second son: ...... Thank you, I'll look into it. 【And third brother, fourth brother......】 In the end, nobody could have predicted that the Shen Family's most undistinguished adopted daughter would become the pampered daughter-in-law.

Link's soul traversed into the Wizard World, delightfully obtaining the Krypton Card Drawing System. With his first draw being the "Mind Closure Technique," his cultivation progress far surpassed his fellow apprentices. He conducted research, carried out experiments, published papers, and obtained patents. In this highly advanced civilization of a fantastical world, he climbed to the peak step by step. He campaigned across the Heavens, admired countless bizarre landscapes, and conquered one innovative civilization after another.

"Mr. Xu, are you really a Heavenly Master?" "As genuine as they come, more real than gold!" "I've heard that your reputation in the supernatural circle is really bad, even to the point where a ghost once called the police saying you were threatening him?" "Impossible!" "It wasn't me!" "Don't talk nonsense!" Xu Yang clenched the Thousand-Year Peachwood Sword in his hand, and said, "What's the name of that ghost? Would you dare to let him confront me face to face?" (PS: This book is also known as 'This Heavenly Master is too Vicious', 'Scaring Ghosts Makes You Stronger'.)

One moment, you're living an ordinary life. Next, you're thrust into the Interstellar Death Game—a ruthless, galaxy-wide survival spectacle. Eliza Ma, an ordinary young woman exhausted from her 9-to-5 job, has no idea why she was chosen. A full-time crybaby, terrified of physical pain, a female like her now finds herself in a relentless fight for survival in a game broadcast to millions of interstellar beings. The players? A mix of the desperate, the dangerous, and the damned unknown entities from across the universe. How can a small human female like her survive such a ruthless game? She has no choice but to compete using her newbie Nightmare Card System. "So, what can it do?" System: "Each card summons a horror born from the deepest fears—faceless shadows to monstrous abominations. The cards offer unimaginable power." "How can I draw a card?" System: "Host must earn shock value first to get points, which can then be exchanged for cards." Eliza Ma looks at her status and almost wants to cry and laugh in madness.

Taong 2036, isang asteroid ang tumama sa mundo at nagdulot ng malupit na pagkasira. Kasabay ng pagsabog ng nakakasilaw na liwanag at enerhiya, nagsimula ang isang malaking pagbabago sa mga tao. Lahat ng tao ay nagkaroon ng kakaibang kapangyarihan na nagbigay sa kanila ng mga bagong kakayahan. Anim na Antas ng Kapangyarihan: Mythical Legendary Epic Rare Uncommon Common Lahat ng tao ay may sariling abilidad, pero si Artix Murat ay hindi pa alam kung anong kapangyarihan ang meron siya. Sa unang araw pagkatapos ng pagbagsak ng asteroid, napansin ni Artix na halos lahat ng tao ay may kakayahan, pero siya ay parang wala. Isang araw, habang inaatake siya ng isang grupo ng mga bandido, dito lumabas ang kanyang abilidad na tinatawag na "All Draws." Ang kanyang kapangyarihan ay may kakaibang epekto—lahat ng laban o kompetisyon na kanyang sasalihan ay laging magtatapos sa tabla. Hindi siya pwedeng manalo, pero hindi rin matatalo. Pero, hanggang saan ang limitasyon ng kapangyarihan niyang ito? Ang All Draws ba ay isang kahanga-hangang abilidad, o isa lang itong walang kwentang kapangyarihan? Habang patuloy na haharapin ni Artix ang mga hamon sa bagong mundong ito, matutuklasan niya kung paano ang kanyang kapangyarihan ay magdadala sa kanya sa mga pagkakataon at pagsubok. Sa kabila ng mundo kung saan lahat ay may abilidad, paano siya magtatagumpay kung ang tagumpay at pagkatalo ay hindi na maaaring ituring sa kanya?

In the heart of Seoul, where the city's vibrant lights cast shadows deep enough to conceal even the darkest secrets, Hyeong Shin emerges from retirement with a single, unyielding purpose: to eliminate Michael, the most dangerous adversary he has ever faced. At 70 years old, Hyeong Shin is no ordinary assassin; he is a legend with 63 years of experience, honed by countless missions carried out with cold precision under the command of a shadowy organization known as "The SSS ranks."Michael was once the leader of The Circle, a brother-in-arms to Hyeong Shin. But the bond of brotherhood shattered when Michael betrayed the organization, seeking to seize power for himself. His betrayal left The Circle fractured, vulnerable, and desperate to reclaim control. Knowing that only one man could succeed in eliminating Michael, The Circle turns to Hyeong Shin, their greatest asset.However, age has taken its toll on Hyeong Shin. Though his skills are unmatched, his body no longer possesses the agility and strength it once did. Desperate to complete the mission and settle the score with the man who had betrayed everything they once stood for, Hyeong Shin undergoes a perilous ritual that restores his youth and vitality. The procedure is as ancient as it is dangerous, but the transformation is successful. Rejuvenated, Hyeong Shin is ready to take on the challenge that lies ahead.The mission is clear: track down Michael, who has established himself as an untouchable power in the underworld, and eliminate him. But this task is far from straightforward. Michael is no ordinary target; he is a mastermind with resources and connections that run deep. Every step Hyeong Shin takes is met with resistance, from assassins loyal to Michael to traps set to lure him into a deadly game of cat and mouse. As Hyeong Shin moves through the city’s dark alleys and towering skyscrapers, the narrative delves into the history between him and Michael. Flashbacks reveal a time when they fought side by side, bound by a shared loyalty to The Circle. Michael’s betrayal is a wound that cuts deep, driving Hyeong Shin not just to complete the mission, but to confront the personal betrayal that has haunted him for years.With The Circle backing him, Hyeong Shin is armed with the best intelligence and resources available. But the deeper he dives into the mission, the more he realizes that The Circle’s motives are not as straightforward as they seem. As he inches closer to Michael, he uncovers secrets that shake his faith in the organization he has served for so long. Loyalties are tested, and the line between friend and foe blurs as Hyeong Shin navigates a web of deception, all while keeping his eyes on the ultimate prize—Michael’s head. The climax of the story is a breathtaking showdown between Hyeong Shin and Michael, set in a labyrinthine fortress that Michael has turned into his stronghold. The battle is as much psychological as it is physical, with both men using every ounce of their training and experience to outmaneuver the other. The Circle watches from the shadows, their true intentions only becoming clear as the final confrontation unfolds.In the end, Hyeong Shin emerges victorious, but the victory is bittersweet. The revelations uncovered during the mission force him to question everything he has ever believed in. The Circle, once a beacon of loyalty and order in his life, is revealed to be as corrupt and power-hungry as the enemies they sought to eliminate. With Michael dead, Hyeong Shin is left to ponder his future—whether to continue as The Circle’s weapon or to forge his own path, free from the chains of his past. "The Return of the Greatest Assassin:Assassin's Chronicles" is a gripping tale of loyalty, betrayal, and the blurred lines between good and evil. It explores the complexities of power and the personal cost of a life lived in service to others.With heart-stopping action, intricate character development,and a plot full of twists and so,the pages unfold.

When monsters pour through mysterious gates, an artist discovers his sketches can come to life. With his sentient notebook, he summons his unique drawings to rise into the world of Players As the gates grow more unstable, Malcolm must master his power, unite the Players, and uncover the truth behind the gates before the world is consumed.

Sarah Pierce finds herself in a desperate world of high-stakes decisions and hazardous connections when her once-thriving art gallery is on the verge of closing. Enter Vane Russell, a mysterious, domineering investor whose gift of deliverance carries ties as dark and enigmatic as the man himself. Vane draws Sarah into his shady orbit, where she uncovers a world filled with secrets, deceit, and power games. Vane's penetrating stare and irresistible presence spark a conflict between her mind and emotions, blurring the borders between rescuer and captor. What starts out as a calculating arrangement quickly turns into a devouring dance of desire, trust, and betrayal. However, Vane's world is equally perilous and alluring, drawing Sarah swiftly into a complex network of enemies, intrigues, and forbidden desires. As she strives to regain her freedom, she must decide if she can trust the devil she knows or if his secrets will ruin her.

After a gas leak explosion Aelelithys find himself in another world with the powers of all of the characters of his drawing and imagination

One morning, when Eli opened his eyes, the world around him had changed. The customers in the café suddenly looked very strange in their battle attire, some even had animal ears and a few didn’t seem human at all. The world had changed, but Eli's life remained the same, as he was still the owner of a small coffee shop. However, there were a few troublesome individuals who always liked to disturb his life. The no. 1 hunter, Julian, always preferred to quietly order a black coffee and sit drinking until late at night. A secret organization met every three days to discuss terrifying-sounding conspiracies. A beautiful teenager fell into a puddle of blood on a rainy day... "Please do not disturb the daily life of an ordinary person..."

At the tender age of 25, Klein reached the legendary status of Fifth Circle Mage, but his obsession with immortality drove him five years on a dubious elixir of immortality, unfortunately, to be transported into a completely different world. Thankfully, the elixir of immortality wasn't a total flop, as it gave potential greater than the Heaven's Chosen with a slight caveat. Klein will have to dabble in various paths of cultivation, orthodox and unorthodox, to reach his dream of immortality. But before all that, he needs to escape the wrath of the elves, for accidentally becoming the Dao Companion of their princess. Unfortunately, the task became a lot harder when he didn't even know their language.

Princess Ivana is as dazzling as she is daring, ruling her kingdom with confidence, charm, and a sharp wit. Caught between royal duties and secretive missions, she thrives in the shadows—until Edmund, her childhood rival-turned-ally, reappears. Their complicated past brims with unresolved tension, flirtation, and a shared history that neither can escape. As the kingdom’s fragile peace teeters, Ivana and Edmund’s bickering escalates, drawing them into a game of hidden motives and unspoken desires. In a world of alliances, secrets, and unpredictable twists, one thing is certain: their rivalry is far from over, and their fates are entwined in ways neither can resist.

The Soulwheels govern the essence of every existence, with each wheel representing a step toward unlocking one's true potential. As the number of wheels grows, so does a person's power—each step closer to greatness, each step harder than the last. Those who master the Wheels of their existence and comprehend the runes that program the universe are said to control not just their fate, but the very fabric of existence itself, ascending to divinity as a Runeweaver. ..... Kael, having never realized the absurdity of his cheat-like ability, watched his classmates struggle to comprehend even the most basic Rune. Meanwhile, he glanced at the intricate patterns of the Rune Circle he had created effortlessly. Their teacher, a Grandmaster Runeweaver, stared at him in utter disbelief. “Holy—! You’re done comprehending the Rune Structure?!” the man exclaimed, his voice filled with shock. “But it’s barely been an hour!” The others froze, their eyes darting between Kael and the glowing Rune Circle in front of him. Their expressions ranged from astonishment to sheer terror. 'Monster', everyone thought in their hearts. Looking at the faces of disbelief in front of him, Kael thought helplessly, 'It didn’t even take a second.'