Vinland Saga Without Love

Lyn’s journey begins with Alex, her schoolmate who becomes her boyfriend. Their relationship is filled with warmth and love, making her feel supported in a way she hasn’t experienced before. However, tragedy strikes when Alex unexpectedly passes away, leaving Lyn heartbroken and struggling to find her way. As she moves forward, she starts a new job and meets Will. Their connection is unexpected, but through shared experiences and moments of vulnerability, Lyn begins to open up again. Will’s kindness and patience remind her of the love she once had with Alex but also show her that healing and new beginnings are possible. This story follows Lyn as she navigates love, loss, and self-discovery, learning that life can still bring light even after the darkest moments.

Marisol never imagined she was anything more than an ordinary, broken girl—until her life fell apart. A family that neglected her, the destruction of her beloved stuffed doll, and a spiraling series of tragedies reveal a darker truth: she is a dark seed, an unwitting fragment of a malevolent force known as the Core. Destined to bring chaos and destruction, she is caught between the pull of her own darkness and the world’s desperate attempts to erase her existence. When Eri, a Gothic Lolita demon born from the Core’s influence, emerges from the shadows to protect her, Marisol embarks on a harrowing journey of survival. Hunted by cultists who worship the Core, pursued by a determined scientist seeking to harness her powers for salvation, and haunted by her growing connection to a cosmic battle between light and dark, Marisol must uncover the truth of her existence. Guided by Aiden, a detective whose unwavering belief in her challenges her darkest instincts, Marisol resists the whispers of the Core. But every step closer to freedom pulls her deeper into the eternal conflict between Sylva, the guardian of the Tree of Life, and the Core’s remnants. As the lines between hero and villain blur, Marisol faces an impossible choice: to surrender to the Core’s influence or carve her own path at a devastating cost.

(Versão em Português) A história mistura fantasia e realidade, sendo destinada a maiores de 16 anos e contendo conteúdos sensíveis para alguns. Há terror e temas delicados que a narrativa aborda. A trama fala sobre uma família com segredos ocultos e um adolescente chamado Pablo, que acaba tendo que lidar com um perseguidor. Esse perseguidor levará Pablo a entender melhor os segredos de sua família. É uma história que aborda espiritualidade, ensinando que todos somos espíritos e que o maior valor da vida está no amor e na capacidade de entender o outro. O texto enfatiza fortemente a necessidade de respeitar e amar todas as pessoas, independentemente de sua orientação sexual ou identidade de gênero. O preconceito e a discriminação são vistos como atitudes primitivas e de atraso espiritual. Inclusive, é mencionado que alguns médiuns homossexuais podem ter mais facilidade em se conectar com espíritos elevados devido à sua sensibilidade e afabilidade. O livro aborda a diversidade de gêneros e orientações sexuais, não se limitando apenas ao padrão heterossexual. Explica que a sexualidade de uma pessoa não define sua espiritualidade ou caráter, pois pessoas LGBTQIA+ também podem ser amorosas, virtuosas e evoluídas espiritualmente. Uma das explicações oferecidas é que a homossexualidade pode ser uma expressão da sexualidade de alguém que reencarna em um corpo diferente do seu gênero anterior. Isso não significa que a pessoa seja "inferior" ou "pecadora", apenas representa a diversidade da experiência humana. Uma importante colocação é que a sexualidade não define a saúde espiritual de alguém. Vícios, ódio, orgulho e arrogância são vistos como muito mais prejudiciais do que a homossexualidade ou bissexualidade. Também é ressaltado que pais devem amar e aceitar seus filhos LGBTQIA+ da mesma forma que os filhos heterossexuais, pois todos são iguais perante Deus. Pedro Henrique escreve este livro para mostrar a importância de vencer as barreiras dos preconceitos e ideologias impostas pela sociedade. O amor é a mais pura essência da felicidade; nem o tempo nem a distância podem quebrar o verdadeiro significado do amor. O livro ressalta o quanto é importante aceitar o próximo da maneira como ele se sente melhor, ensina a perdoar e mostra que cada pessoa tem seu próprio ponto de vista na vida. No entanto, é essencial ter respeito. Este livro é dedicado aos mistérios entre a vida e a morte, pois muitas vezes esquecemos que um dia nascemos e que um dia iremos partir deste plano. Eu lhe faço uma pergunta: se você tivesse a chance de nascer várias vezes para consertar um erro, você o consertaria?

Stalker Fantasma (English Version) The story blends fantasy and reality, aimed at readers over the age of 16 and containing sensitive content for some. There is horror and delicate themes that the narrative explores. The plot centers around a family with hidden secrets and a teenager named Pablo, who ends up dealing with a stalker. This stalker will lead Pablo to better understand his family’s secrets. It is a story that addresses spirituality, teaching that we are all spirits and that the greatest value in life lies in love and the ability to understand others. The book addresses the diversity of genders and sexual orientations, not limited to the heterosexual standard. It explains that a person's sexuality does not define their spirituality or character, as LGBTQIA+ people can also be loving, virtuous, and spiritually evolved. One of the explanations offered is that homosexuality may be an expression of the sexuality of someone who reincarnates in a body different from their previous gender. This does not mean that the person is "inferior" or "sinful"; it merely represents the diversity of the human experience. The text strongly emphasizes the need to respect and love all people, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Prejudice and discrimination are seen as primitive attitudes and signs of spiritual delay. Furthermore, it is mentioned that some homosexual mediums may have greater ease in connecting with higher spirits due to their sensitivity and affability. An important point is that sexuality does not define a person's spiritual health. Vices, hatred, pride, and arrogance are seen as far more harmful than homosexuality or bisexuality. It is also highlighted that parents should love and accept their LGBTQIA+ children just as they would their heterosexual children, as all are equal in the eyes of God. Pedro Henrique writes this book to show the importance of overcoming societal prejudice and ideologies. Love is the purest essence of happiness; neither time nor distance can break the true meaning of love. The book highlights how important it is to accept others as they feel best, teaches forgiveness, and shows that everyone has their own perspective on life. However, respect is essential. This book is dedicated to the mysteries between life and death, as we often forget that one day we are born and that one day we will leave this plane. I ask you a question: if you had the chance to be born multiple times to correct a mistake, would you do it?

Aiden’s world is torn apart when a catastrophic explosion devastates his city, separating him from Lila, the love of his life. Awakening in the surreal Otherworld, he learns that this realm is a patchwork of destruction and despair, where the fragments of things lost in the real world converge. At its heart lies Yggdrasil, the great tree of life that connects all worlds and timelines, threatened by the corruption of the Core—a manifestation of imbalance, rot, and despair. Guided by Sylva, a luminous being tied to Yggdrasil, Aiden wields the quill-sword, a weapon shaped by his imagination. Tasked with restoring balance to the Otherworld and reuniting with Lila, Aiden joins forces with Rowan, a fiery and skilled warrior, and Kieran, a stoic and loyal protector. Together, they face the Core’s shadowy agents, powerful manifestations of fear and despair that seek to corrupt Yggdrasil’s roots and spread their influence across all worlds.

ini adalah kisah perjuangan dan perjalanan Ian untuk menyelamatkan Benua Terrasia ketika dia kembali ke masa depan oh ini novel pertama yang aku tulis mohon dukungannya

Hakon, born in the small, peaceful village of Brynnhold, has always been different. Blessed—or cursed—with otherworldly strength and an uncanny connection to water, Hakon’s powers stir both awe and fear among his people. As he grows, so do the whispers of divine heritage, and his dreams of becoming a hero are shadowed by strange prophecies and cryptic warnings. But Hakon's destiny is far greater—and darker—than he ever imagined. A hidden legacy lies within him, tied to ancient gods and long-forgotten betrayals. As fate begins to unravel, Hakon must decide if he will embrace the path laid out for him or forge his own. The power of gods is awakening, and with it, an unstoppable thirst for vengeance. With the fate of Midgard hanging in the balance, Hakon embarks on a journey that will test the limits of his strength, loyalty, and humanity. Will he become the hero he’s always dreamed of, or the instrument of a long-awaited reckoning? A boy with the heart of a warrior. A legacy born from betrayal. A saga that will shake the foundations of the Nine Realms.

In a world where medieval castles stand alongside neon-lit cyberpunk cityscapes, two young souls embark on a journey that will test the limits of hope in the darkest of times. Daglan and Rozeree, adopted siblings with intertwined fates, set out across a continent teeming with diverse races and conflicting technologies. As they grow from innocent children to battle-hardened teenagers, their paths diverge but remain connected by the shadows of their past. Rozeree, haunted by trauma she can't escape, seeks to forge her own identity in a world that seems determined to define her. Meanwhile, Daglan is driven by a singular purpose: to avenge his parents' murder and rescue his long-lost sister from the clutches of darkness. But in this realm where swords clash with holograms and magic mingles with machinery, nothing is as simple as it seems. As Daglan closes in on his parents' killer, he must confront not only the demons of his past but also the harsh realities of a world where hope struggles to survive. Will Daglan find justice and redemption? Can Rozeree outrun her demons and claim her own destiny? Or will the darkness that threatens to consume them both prove too powerful to overcome? Dive into this dark fantasy where medieval lore collides with futuristic innovation, and discover whether the flame of hope can truly endure in the face of unimaginable adversity.

Betrayed by her first love on her birthday, Evelyn has vowed never to risk her heart again. Her life takes an unexpected turn when her mother’s tarot reading foretells love and destiny intertwined, leading her to meet two men- Lucas and Albert- which changes the trajectory of the destiny of Mooncrest. At first, Evelyn was confused about whom to pick. Finally, she falls for Albert, and only when she is deeply committed to her feelings for him does she find out that Albert belongs to the rival pack, the Nightshade Pack, who had just returned from exile and where inter-pack marriage is forbidden. Unknown to all, Lucas is not who he claims to be, as he is a shapeshifting rogue on a mission. He had killed the real Lucas and assumed his identity with the sinister plan to dominate Mooncrest with his rogue pack. Evelyn's love for Albert is tested by lies, deceit, betrayals, and Lucas' manipulations, which climax in a shocking murder that further escalates the long-standing rifts between the Shadow Pack and the Nightshade Pack. To make matters worse, Evelyn discovers she is pregnant with Albert's child. Will Evelyn's love for Albert be strong enough to reconcile their warring packs or would the forces at play destroy everything they hold dear?

In a world of advanced technology and shadowy organizations, Kasper de la Fuente seems like just another talented student at the elite Bounty Hunter Association Academy. Enhanced by cutting-edge nanobots, Kasper and his tight-knit group of friends tackle everything the Academy throws at them - from brutal combat simulations to mysterious incidents that push their abilities to the limit. But beneath the surface of intense training and wild parties, dark forces are stirring. When a classified training simulation goes catastrophically wrong, Kasper discovers his enhancements might be more than just standard tech. As he digs deeper, he uncovers connections to the infamous Project Lazarus and the deadly Valparaíso Incident. A chain of tragic events forces Kasper to leave the Academy behind for the neon-drenched streets of Costa del Sol. There, he emerges as something new: The Void Killer, a hunter whose name sends shivers through the criminal underworld. Now, years later, the mysterious Cyber Lich threatens to destroy everything Kasper has built. Working with the enigmatic Douglas Berston and the secretive Paranormal Activity Branch, he must confront an enemy that seems to know his every move. But in a world where technology and darkness intertwine, nothing is as it seems. Old friends become enemies, ancient conspiracies resurface, and the line between justice and vengeance grows ever thinner. The Void Killer Saga - where every shadow hides a secret, and the truth comes at a deadly price.

4,000 years ago, 10,000 species of entities far and wide ruled the earth. But 1,000 years later, an unknown event would cause the faces of some entities to be wiped off the earth - until 5 years ago. Kevin, along with his friends Samantha and Gerald have one dream in common - to find and take down every entity. In this lengthy fantasy-sci fi story, you get to witness the adventures of Team ENTITY. At first, it was just a friendly trip to an abandoned city, but it opened up an entire new world for them. Read ENTITY now! (Auxiliary Volume for more info) 1 chapter every day! Every 100 chapters = 2 chapters daily for 15 days Every 300 chapters = 4 chapters daily for 10 days JaydenIQ, All Rights Reserved STATUS: Ongoing

Title: NOT WITHOUT YOU, JACK MASON Synopsis: When wealthy heiress Rita Mason is left to die on a remote farm, betrayed by those closest to her, fate has other plans. As she struggles to give birth to her son, she is discovered by Grace, a childless woman recently cast out of her home. Together, they bring a new life into the world. In her final moments, Rita entrusts Grace with a small bag, whispering, “Name him Jack Mason. Give him this when he turns eighteen.” Inside, a family heirloom and limitless credit cards hold the key to his hidden legacy. Jack grows up in Racoon Village, a place far from the wealth and power that are rightfully his. Raised in poverty but gifted with remarkable intelligence, strength, and charm, he becomes known for his unbreakable spirit. But when his childhood sweetheart, Lucy, breaks his heart, he faces the sting of loss in a new way. Yet hope emerges when he receives an acceptance letter from the prestigious university where he’ll cross paths with Lucy’s best friend. Determined to find his true identity, Jack embarks on a journey through the shadows of his past. Each clue brings him closer to uncovering the truth about his mother’s betrayal and the powerful family that tried to erase her. As he unravels his lineage and seeks to reclaim all that is his, he must also confront the unexpected chance of finding love again. Will Jack Mason achieve the justice his mother never saw—and open his heart to a love that could rewrite his future? Not without you is a story of love, betrayal, jealousy and success.

Valkyria Saga tells the tale of Hisumi Nomura, a loyal agent of the malevolent organization Judgement. On a mission to eliminate a supposed traitor, Hisumi is betrayed and killed by his own comrades. But death is not the end. The Ruler of Rebirth intervenes, reviving Hisumi in a new form—a woman with immense untapped Spirit Energy. Waking in an alleyway, disoriented and grappling with her new identity, Hisumi quickly realizes the profound change that has occurred. Her extraordinary Spirit Energy draws the attention of the Valkyrias of Saint Fraskia Academy, a sanctuary and training ground for Valkyrias who oppose Judgement. Initially seen as a potential threat, Hisumi is soon recognized for her potential and invited to join the academy. Within the hallowed halls of Saint Fraskia, Hisumi undergoes rigorous training, participating in annual examinations that test her combat prowess and theoretical knowledge. She forges deep bonds with other Valkyrias, such as Yumeji Kugo, who wields the power of Time and Fire, and Kikyo Maeda, a lightning-affine warrior honoring her clan’s samurai and kunoichi heritage. As Hisumi trains, she battles internal struggles, reconciling her past loyalties with her new mission. Her journey reveals hidden aspects of her Spirit Energy and potential ties to the ancient and powerful Divine Arms—legendary weapons created by the Sovereigns. With Judgement’s threat looming large, Hisumi and her allies embark on dangerous missions, uncovering the sinister organization’s plans and clashing with its forces.

Onmyoji are a class of spirit masters with special powers and has protected the human realm from the dark forces from the supernatural worlds Adam is one revered spirit master at the Tenmon So the ancient sect that has kept order in the human and supernatural realms for centuries. With his special powers to command and control spirits from the supernatural worlds, Adam has earned a reputation as an exorcist with a quest to find his long-lost parents. However, a call of distress from a fellow master changed all that. In a bid to save Kelly Nishimura Adam found himself walking into a fatal ambush. Though he rescued his teammate, Adam realized a prized relic, long guarded by his sect, has been and that may throw the realms into chaos. As he sought to hunt down the thief, he found himself battling enemies from the others realms and uncovered a dark conspiracy that threatened to re-ignite the centuries-old feud between the Onmyojis of Tenmon So and the Dākurōbu（Dark Robes). A war that will destroy the balance between the supernatural and human realms. Racing against time, Adam knew he must retrieve the relic and defeat foes before the human realm is consumed by darkness. Using all his powers, he must save his world from destruction. Little did he know, behind the conspiracy, is a larger scheme of things that will threaten to consume his quest to find his long-lost parents. The Saga of the Onmyoji is an exciting series of stories that promises the exciting elements of magic, mystical powers, and creatures. Besides breathless action, there will be interesting characters, each possessing different special powers, that will thrill the fans of fantasy and horror. The Saga promises to keep fans of fantasy and supernatural thrillers glued to every page of the thriller.

In a world where magic lingers just beneath the surface, two ancient sorcerers, Merlin and Malakar, once stood united against an ancient evil. Merlin, a master of time manipulation with other range of magic abilities, and Malakar, a dark elf bound by his father's malevolent pact, fought side by side for centuries. However, upon Merlin's death, he entrusts Malakar with spreading the magic they've safeguarded. To preserve their legacy, Malakar reincarnates both their souls for a future battle against an old darkness. In modern times, Merlin is reborn as Kaito, the world's most powerful human sorcerer, while Malakar reincarnates as Akira, a 16-year-old boy who struggles with his destiny. Akira is haunted by the idea of being Malakar's reincarnation and is reluctant to embrace the darker side of his past life. Alongside them is a new generation of sorcerers—Mikage, a fiery prodigy; Yukiko, a cold and disciplined Ice Mage; and Hakuren, an ancient mentor with deep knowledge of magic. Together, they must confront rising threats, including monstrous beings hunting Akira and the sinister forces of an ancient evil stirring once again. As Akira wrestles with his identity and the evil magic inherited from Malakar, he forms new bonds and must face trials that will determine the fate of magic in this era. With a mysterious primordial beast locked within him, a ghostly mentor teaching him forgotten arts, and the growing danger looming over them all, Akira must decide if he will embrace or defy his destiny in this new age of sorcery.

It's a good read, trust me ;) but for those who enjoy reading synopsis's here you go. "YOU BASTARDS! I WILL KILL YOU ALL!!" In a world where the powerful reigns and the weak simply exist, betrayal lurks in every shadow. Ren witnesses the brutal murder of his mother at the hands of the city he so loved. Fueled by a burning desire for vengeance, Ren vows to bring down the people that shattered his life. As Ren confronts powerful enemies and forges new bonds, he must decide if his thirst for blood will lead him to redemption or further into darkness. Will he become the hero he aspires to be, or will vengeance consume him entirely? The path to justice is filled with blood—how far will Ren go to claim his own?

For a thousand years, peace reigned after the Hellbringer’s defeat. But now, darkness stirs once more. Prophets speak of apocalypse, monsters multiply, and a deadly cult sets the world ablaze, ripping twin sisters Siren and Saga apart. Each believes the other dead, fueling a dark path of vengeance that will make them heroes, rebels, and, eventually, mortal enemies. As their destinies collide, they face a choice: unite to stop the rebirth of the Hellbringer or let their clash plunge the world into a firestorm that no one will survive. In the end, only one bond can save…or destroy the realm. Please take note that this is an epic fantasy story with romance subplot that explores war, life-threatening situations, battles, gruesome injuries, and death. It’s a world on the edge of an apocalypse, including scenes of bloodshed, graphic language, intense violence, and sexual activities. Now, get ready for an unforgettable adventure with Siren and Saga…

What happened, when the super guy lost his powers. And to recover back his powers he needs to play the simulation game. But he is also kick out of his Universe, because his powers were not able to adjust it. So then, he will start his Multiverse Journey and his simulation journey. Both going to be amazing, just read and you will found it.

After a tragic end to his bleak life, our down-and-out 29-year-old man awakens in a new body—a fierce young barbarian in a world of magic and monsters. Struggling to survive, he battles beasts and uncovers dark secrets about his mysterious mother and her hidden past. As he unravels his legacy, he’s drawn deeper into a destiny far more significant than he ever imagined. This story is also being Updated in Royal Road "https://www.royalroad.com/profile/499457/fictions" New chapters updated daily!

Silver, a high school student who is suddenly reincarnated into a fantasy world where he is a member of the evil royal family, the House of Silver. Would he be able to escape his family's cruel fate? Or would he succumb to their dark influence?

In a world ravaged by wars and sun-driven chaos, the remains of humanity clings to survival within the singular haven of Utopia. Dr. Umami Christopher unveils the Twilight 6000—a device meant to shield against the sun's lethal touch. Instead, its activation triggers cosmic upheaval, casting Earth into shadow and humanity into an existence where humans become shadow-like still retaining their dimensions. As Utopia navigates this altered reality, the "Shadow Saga" unfurls, revealing mysteries, strange abilities, and the struggle for survival against cosmic forces in a world forever changed by twilight.

Let's move on to the intergalactic journey of Zede and his friends. What does his dreams mean? How is he going to know the true meaning of his life? Whole universe greatest place, a throne is waiting for him. A story filled with the essence of Time travel, parallel universes, dimensions, supernatural and some mythical elements. Zede lives in the world where an association named Savior Society exists. It finds the people with super and special powers and use the to save people from menacers, our mc becomes one of them. But this journey holds more than just talking about a association. I hope u love the whole world building and the deep stuff that i implanted.

No mundo onde a fantasia é real, criaturas mágicas que dividem o mesmo lado da moeda que a humanidade, em uma sociedade tomada por individuos portadores de habilidades especiais. As engrenagens do caos, que antes estavam travadas, começou a girar mais uma vez, sobre este mundo. Ameaçando novamente o equilíbrio e a harmonia daqueles que vivem em Yggdrasil. Quando, com o seu despertar, Koshiro Kazaneru, decide seguir sua vida, pela jornada de ser um aventureiro candidato a herói, e trazer ao vilarejo onde vive, um herói que os protege, e que trará grandes mudanças para o mundo, no presságio silencioso de um caos eminente. Porém, infelizmente, as engrenagens do destino, são neutras, e não seguem por meio da justiça terrena. Seu mundo idealizado por um sonho de seu "pai", virará totalmente de cabeça pra baixo em sua jornada nessa obra de fantasia, cheia de tragédias e glórias. Enquanto segue em frente, caminhando contra uma correnteza de emoções e dificuldades para chegar ao final feliz. Jornada - Saga do Necromante 1

Takeshi glancing at the boys, determined "Stay close to me. I won’t let them take you." He tightens his grip on his weapon, every muscle in his body tensed and ready for the battle. Shauwa charges at Takeshi with a roar, his weapon swinging wildly. Takeshi meets him head-on, their weapons clashing with a loud, metallic sound. The boys watch in fear, huddling close to each other. Shauwa grinning wildly as he swings his weapon "Is this all you’ve got, Takeshi? I thought you were supposed to be strong!" He laughs, trying to taunt Takeshi into making a mistake. Takeshi focused, voice steady "You’re underestimating me, shauwa .That’s your first mistake." He counters Shauwa's attack with precision, his movements fluid and controlled. Meanwhile, Azdal watches the battle with a cold, calculating gaze. His eyes flicker between Takeshi and the boys, waiting for the perfect moment to strike. Azdal in thought, planning "Takeshi is strong… but even he can protect the boys and fight at the same time. All I need is one opening…" Shauwa relentless attacks start to wear on Takeshi, but Takeshi remains focused. Suddenly, Azdal sees his chance—Takeshi’s attention momentarily shifts to the boys. Azdal seizing the moment, rushing towards the boys "Now’s my chance!" He lunges towards the boys, his weapon

It's been all those years, the blue seas has turned to mulburry feilds , I shall show this world how far have i come. In a world of martial prowess, Lin Tian, a humble young master of the Lin Clan, harbors a mysterious Artifact that hints at untapped power. Struggling between his sweet facade and prideful ruthlessness, he must confront his fate as the Dark Emperor. Will he wield his power for light or succumb to the shadows?

In the peaceful town of Montclair, amidst cobblestone streets and stone houses, stands a legendary restaurant: Le Palais d’Épicure. Its star chef, Jean-Luc Moreau, has devoted his life to the quest for perfect flavors, transforming each dish into a work of art. But on a fateful night, as stars twinkle above the slumbering town, Jean-Luc succumbs to a mysterious poisoning. Yet, death does not mark the end of his journey, but the beginning of a new odyssey. Resurrected in a world where gastronomy meets cultivation, Jean-Luc discovers a universe where ingredients possess spiritual essences and culinary techniques can defy the laws of nature. Armed with his unparalleled talent and love for cooking, he embarks on a quest to master the art of culinary cultivation. Each dish becomes a step towards immortality, each flavor a key to unlocking the secrets of the universe. Throughout his journey, Jean-Luc encounters masters of martial arts, alchemists, and philosophers, each revealing to him unseen facets of spiritual cuisine. As he explores mystical lands and faces unimaginable challenges, he learns that the true essence of cultivation lies in harmony and balance, not only in his dishes but also in his soul. Jean-Luc must navigate rivalries and alliances, tradition and innovation, to uncover the mysteries of this new world. His adventure is a poetic ballet where each dish is an ode to life, where each flavor tells a story. Through his creations, he seeks to touch eternity, to transcend the boundaries of existence. **The Immortal Chef** is an epic journey where the philosophy of cultivation intertwines with culinary art, where each meal is a meditation on the beauty and fragility of life. It is the story of a man who, in his quest for perfection, discovers that true power lies not in conquest but in sharing and communion with the world.