Illumination Studios

*100 Days with Mr. Arrogant* Yoon Ji Hyun, a talented but struggling artist, is desperate to save her art studio after being dumped by her cheating ex-boyfriend, Lee Min-Soo. When enigmatic billionaire Kim Taehyun offers a fake relationship for 100 days to boost his business image, Ji Hyun accepts. As they navigate their pretend romance, Ji Hyun and Taehyun clash over their vastly different worlds. Secrets from their past threaten to upend their growing attraction. Lee Min-Soo's reappearance complicates matters, forcing Ji Hyun to confront her lingering feelings. As the 100-day deadline looms, Ji Hyun and Taehyun's relationship deepens. They must confront their insecurities, vulnerabilities, and the true reasons behind their initial agreement. Will their love overcome the challenges, or will their pride and prejudices tear them apart? *Genre:* Contemporary Romance, Women's Fiction *Themes:* Love, Identity, Self-Discovery, Overcoming Pride and Prejudices

The bully boss has a little girl on the tip of his heart, the little girl carved a small wooden plate for him, the bully boss hung it on his neck, and never took it off. The rich second generation suddenly did not come to the night dance, the background wall of the social software, the name, a sign, all changed to a little girl, just when everyone thought that the sea King went ashore, the rich second generation went to the sea again, bought drunk every night, and had a small wooden plate on the wrist. When the world freestyle Grand Slam champion participated in the competition this year, there was suddenly a small wooden plate on his neck, and the coach said that he would take it off first, in case of impact, the champion would cover it dead and put cruel words: dare to pick, he would dare to dive on the ballet during the game When the red top flow record variety, partner ng countless times, he was not angry, but the other side of the operation error will be the dog blood spilled on the top of the wrist to dirty the piece of small wooden card, the top flow hit the script, the next day on the headlines: a top flow studio play big name Every man who gets a card thinks that he is an exception, is special, until one day, they meet Oh, what a coincidence. Do you have that too ! The same sky, the same board, the same lover, you deserve......

Hikaru, a 24-year-old man, was walking through the city streets after a tiring day at work. Suddenly, the clear sky quickly darkened and a violent storm erupted out of nowhere. In an instant, lightning struck from the sky, illuminating the night with a dazzling flash. Hikaru had no time to react; the impact threw him into the darkness, and his life was snuffed out.

Between the howls and wails, the screams and cries of women being raped, and the villagers being eaten and butchered like cattle, there was a middle-aged man who was desperately running away while yelling his lungs out. ''Why.... WHY!!! YOU ABSOLUTE FUCKERS!!!'' His clothes were in tatters and marred in blood, with his body being barely able to function. His state was simply beyond recognition. As for where he was running to... It didn't matter... He just wanted to flee the hellish scene that was unfolding behind him. His remote village, the one he had lived in his entire life, was now a fiery beacon illuminating the night. ''Whyyyyy areeeeeee youuuuuuuuuu runninnnnnnnnnnng awwaaayyyy froooooom usssssssss?'' Terrifying low growls and voices could be perceived behind him, and every time he heard them, his body released adrenaline to try to override its limits, but to no avail as his injuries were just too severe. The humanoid creatures pursuing him were like shadows, barely distinguishable through the cover of the night. Their eyes, akin to black holes, were fixed on their prey as it struggled for its pathetic life. Their faint and sinister giggles kept reverberating through the darkness... *** As blood rushed up his throat and leaked at the corners of his mouth, his sinister appearance aggravated to where he resembled a devil. During his maniacal laugh, his punctured lungs had finally given out, causing his whole body to collapse on the ground and dyeing it a scarlet shade. His mind went blank, while his consciousness left his battered body. *** After what appeared to be a few minutes, he suddenly woke up. He was startled at first, but he soon realized that he had indeed died. Everything around him was black, without an ounce of life in sight. He was basically a spirit floating in the absolute void. ''So this is what happens when you die... You just drift in darkness... That's actually underwhelming. I wonder if I'll just fade away'' When Derrick's thoughts started to drift, a prompt appeared in front of him. [Welcome to System Nemesis, Derrick Tarlin] [Would you like to seek revenge? Yes/No]

The seasoned player of "Abyss of Stars," the [Starfall Master] Li Zi, brings a system template and travels to the game's world, arriving in the era of the game's beta version. This is the worst of times. The cosmic forces and conglomerates collude, causing the doors to the universe to be closed, the planet's resources to be exhausted, and even sunlight to be monopolized. This is also the best of times. All the extraordinary systems are just beginning. In this era, he is the only [Starfall Master] with the final version patch. While people are enthralled by the smoke of plasma guns and cannons, Li Zi has already torn apart battleships with gravity. While superhumans are smug about their awakened abilities, moonlight has already become Li Zi's servant. While the interstellar fleet crosses the Milky Way, Li Zi has just ignited the forty-second star, illuminating the entire universe. "People have been trapped on the ground for too long; they've forgotten that this starry sky should belong to all of us." —Facing the unspeakable aboriginal evil gods, Li Zi, holding a black hole, gently said.

Dawn finishes her novel after years of hard work, only left with the words, 'The End' illuminating her dark room as she laments on her journey being over. The characters she loved so dearly would be leaving her now, and so lost in thought she decides there's nothing a good nap couldn't solve. Unfortunately for her, after a bizarre dream she finds out that, indeed, there are some things a good nap can't solve. For example, waking up in the novel you just finished writing, surrounded by danger and her own cast of heroes and villains.

When Aadi, a young man, searches for two people who are precious to him, his efforts land him in an unexpected place with an unrelenting foe, whose blows shatter the earth and rend boulders asunder. Their conflict sparks a partnership for the ages and spurs Aadi on an adventure that he wouldn't have imagined possible. --- Disclosure: Free chapters of this novel by Windus Andar will be published on several platforms: Wattpad, Royal Road, Scribble Hub, and WebNovel. These free chapters will also be published on Angel Grove Studio's website. Premium chapters will be available on Windus Andar's Patreon page. After the novel is completed, it will be published on Amazon and Smashwords and its affiliates.

"Once upon a time..." "There was a young man named Fionn..." "He was the king of the Hyperboreans, a civilisation that lived in peace in the outmost north of the world." "One day, while he was taking one of his usual walks just outside of his castle, he heard a strange sound, something that seemed like a squealing, coming from the bushes of the surrounding white forest..." "Startled, with great courage, he went to look at what that was, only to find a girl being attacked by a thur!" "Fionn, fearing for the girl's life, immediately unseathed the regal sword on his waist and swifly killed the monster." "-Are you all right?- Fionn, after killing the monster, instantly asked to the girl." "But, strangely, she didn't respond." "Fionn found this quite strange, but didn't think much about it, it could have been that she was still scared from the encounter with the thur, he thought." "But there was something else that he found strange apart from her not saying anything, and this time, he couldn't not think about it. Her skin... it wasn't white as snow like his or the rest of the Hyperboreans... it was... pink. He had never seen someone like her in his entire life." "-Ehm... I know that I might sound a little bit unappropriate, but can I at least ask you where are you from? Because you don't look from here...- Fionn asked to her, this time hoping to get some answers, but, again, nothing..." "-Wait! Could it be that you don't understand what I am saying?- Fionn suddenly realized. -So you are from somewhere else... but where? Isn't there only sea outside Hyperborea?-" "-Could it be that she's from one of the other Nine Worl- Fionn's thoughts were suddenly interrupted by the girl getting up and walking towards him." "She- Oh!" ~Ronf~ ~Ronf~ ~Ronf~ "Looks like Artair is already asleep..." "He must have played a lot today... I usually read him more of the story before he falls asleep..." The mother kissed Artair in the forehead. "Good night, my little Artair..." Then, she got up from Artair's bed, turned off the torch illuminating his room and left this. "I hope at least you will be able to live without having to experience war..."

[Warning: strong mature content] Jasmine Everly was humiliated and thrown out of the house after being served with divorce papers by her husband, Sabastian Donovan, the only person she had ever loved, all due to a heartbreaking misunderstanding. She was so dependent on Sabastian that she had no one else and nowhere else to turn. Hurt and broken, she contemplated the end, but fate intervened when she discovered her pregnancy after enduring multiple miscarriages. This gave her the reason and determination to live. She worked hard to stand on her own just to give her daughter everything. After 6 years, she meets her ex-husband again as an investor in the design studio she works for, and he demands that she work with him for a month. What happens in a month? Why does he want her now? Will he find out that he has a daughter? Will they finally solve their misunderstanding and get back together? Or does he still love her? Will they have a happy ending? --------- He let my hands go and moved back a little, asking, "So she is not my daughter?" His voice was so calm, mirroring his eyes. It.... It's scary. Why did he suddenly turn so clam...? "No." I stood my ground, even though my heart was shouting to tell him the truth. All of a sudden, he grabbed my throat and slammed me against the wall, making my eyes widen. The unknown sensation spread across my skin like a wildfire. "So what if she is not my daughter? You still belong to me! But not in the fucking way I promised, but in the way you deserve!" His dark harsh voice vibrated on the edge of the earshell and sent a shiver down my spine, breaking out the cold sweat. "Wha...what....?!" My words were swallowed by his kiss, harsh unforgiving and hungry kiss. My body froze against his huge one as he pushed me against the wall with his, making me a sandwich between him and the wall. My eyes rolled back, and my mind stopped working as all I could feel was him, his body, and his lips. "You are always mine! Remember this, Jas!".

Avery: Aside from his mother, Avery is the only omega in a family full of alphas. As the youngest of four, he was strongly loved and heavily supported as he decided to make a name for himself as an artist. However, rather than filling him with warmth and passion like it once used to, he began feeling empty inside whenever he painted or drew. The night before his freshman orientation at the university he was going to attend, he made up his mind to deffer his enrollment and step away from art entirely. At nineteen years old, this one decision would not only alter the course of his future, but lead him to finding the answers to questions he desparatley searched for, "Why do I paint? Who do I paint for? What am I trying to say?". Even after taking a step back from his greatest passion, art is the only thing he has on his mind. Feeling lost and confused, a seemingly meaningless decision and one unfortunate situation leads him into the arms of an alpha he has never met. Though he was in heat, Avery has never been more sure of anything in his life as he was about this man. This was his alpha, and he would do anything in his ability to make sure it stayed that way. Kai: At twenty-four years old, Kai's life has been nothing but difficult. Having been abused by his mother after his father walked out on them as a baby, he could have easily wound up down the wrong path in life. Instead, despite everything he has been through, he graduated high scool and then went straight to work. Now Kai is a modest owner of a bar, living in a studio apartment and sending what wages he can to the mother who blamed him for her life. Harboring deep seeded guilt for the way his mother has lived, Kai swore he would never get involved romantically with anyone, much less an omega, lest he resign them to the same fate of his mother. However, that all changed when he was walking to work one evening and smelled the frightened pheromones of an omega in heat. He followed the scent to a young and incapacitated Avery, and decided that he needed to help him before things got worse. Carrying him back to his apartment, he did everything he could to reassure Avery and make sure that he was safe. He ran down to the corner store that was right next to his apartment and purchased some inhibitors to help with Avery 's heat... But when he returned he quickly realized that they would not work. Follow the story of Surrendering to Insanity, told from first person in both points of view. *This story takes place in a fictional setting. All names, places, and locations are fake. Any resemblance to reality is unintentional. The cover may change as the story progresses. If the length ends up longer than what is suited for the short stories category, it will be updated accordingly. As the story progresses, tags may update to better suit the work.*

It was just a normal night but it was unknown to many that a disastrous event was underway. The night sky bursts into a crimson-gold hue, illuminating the landscape as a planet-altering extraterrestrial meteor collides with the Evermoon World bringing destruction in its wake. This cosmic event completely changed the planet as a wave of primal force swept through Evermoon. Animals turned into terrifying beasts, some plants gained self-awareness, and the humans who managed to withstand the wave of primal force awakened the ability to acquire strength by defeating powerful enemies. And those who did not turned into man-eating mutants and zombies. The entire planet entered a new era where the old laws fell. The only law was the law of the jungle where the strongest devoured the weakest. Damien Quinn, an apparently normal college student and an orphan is unceremoniously exposed to such a cold and heartless new world, he is faced with a choice: Find a deep dark hole and hope it goes back to "normal"? Or overcome all obstacles and struggle towards evolution! Initially only hoping to get his friends and escape to a refugee camp, our protagonist sets out, inadvertently building a team along the way. After a series of fortuitous events and a few serious hunches our hero decides it's time to do more than just survive! However, it seemed that Evermoon also had its hidden side that humans would discover in a very uncanny way. And was evolution the last of it?

In the bustling heart of New York City, the neon lights of the trendy nightclub, "Elixir Dreams," illuminate the path to desire and danger. Meet Lily, an ordinary bartender with an extraordinary talent for mixing cocktails that are works of art. Her life takes an unexpected turn one fateful night when a mysterious and incredibly handsome stranger, Sebastian, walks through the club's doors. Their chance encounter sparks a seductive dance between two souls, leading Lily down a dangerous path she never saw coming. Lily's life becomes entangled in Sebastian's irresistible charms, drawing her deeper into his world of secrets, pleasures, and desires. As they traverse the dangerous line between passion and obsession, Lily must confront her vulnerabilities and decide how far she's willing to go to quench her newfound addiction to a man who's both captivating and enigmatic.

Gan Qi, 19 years old, uprooted from her hometown, she came alone from the countryside to Shanghai to find a job but unforturnately encountered criminals who were obsessed with her good looks. She ran into the 30-year-old Lu Qingxiang who was just betrayed by his girlfriend and frustrated by his career of the manufacture of robots, he inadvertently saved her by chance. Since then, Gan Qi followed Lu Qingxiang in obscurity. With the development of Qingxiang's career, his mother urged him to get married, he casually married with Gan Qi and got a child, he thought that their marriage is each takes what he needs, she married him just for the sake of money, and he married her by the order of his mother. Deeply hurted by his first love, this marriage had not been able to repair the heart of Qingxiang, they had been dead and lived for ten years of married life of sex with no love. Qingxiang made unlimited demands to her and Gan Qi always followed his advices. Ten years later, Gan Qi's aunt died, she had no choice but to return to her hometown and met her childhood friend Yang Xing, they became partners to run a dance studio, they got along very well, Gan Qi's love rekindled, she wanted to divorce Qingxiang. At the same time, with the huge success of his career of AI, Qingxiang has become the man of the hour. He has also countless confidantes around him, he saw Gan Qi change and started to be tempted, their marriage can still last? Will there be love between them?

In a room with white, reflective walls, illuminated by a cold, blinding light, a young man wakes up confused, with no idea where he is, why he’s there, or most importantly, who he is. Soon, however, a woman with enigmatic charm and an unusual appearance reveals a startling truth to him: his planet, Earth, has been conquered by the Sleter, an alien species that has transformed the world into a massive Game Arena. Right there, within its walls, he will have to fight, struggling not only to survive but also to uncover the secrets of his identity and the destiny that awaits him.

In a world where the realms of Light and Shadow are at constant war, Seraphina, a powerful witch with a dark lineage, and Azrael, the fearsome Demon Prince, are sworn enemies. Bound by a cruel twist of fate and a cursed prophecy, they are forced into an uneasy alliance to prevent the rise of the Endbringer, a being capable of destroying both realms. As their powers grow stronger and the lines between loyalty and love blur, Seraphina and Azrael must confront their deepest fears and darkest secrets. Can they resist the pull of their forbidden bond, or will their love be the key to salvation—or destruction? Excerpt: A Glimpse into the Future The battlefield was silent, the echoes of the war they had fought fading into the night. Seraphina stood before Azrael, her heart pounding, her mind racing with emotions she could no longer suppress. The flicker of dying flames illuminated the space between them, casting shadows on their weary faces. “I can't keep pretending anymore, Azrael,” she whispered, her voice barely audible over the soft wind that swept through the ruins. Her hands trembled as she took a hesitant step forward. “This war, this fight… it’s torn me apart. But what hurts the most is knowing that, despite everything, I—” “Don’t say it,” Azrael interrupted, his voice strained. He looked away, clenching his fists. His demonic eyes flashed with an intensity that made her heart ache. “If you say it, I won’t be able to stop myself. I won’t be able to walk away.” Seraphina took another step, her eyes never leaving his. “Maybe I don’t want you to walk away.” Azrael’s breath caught in his throat. Slowly, he turned to face her, his mask of cold indifference cracking. His hand reached out, trembling slightly, as his fingers grazed her cheek. “Seraphina… I’ve fought it for so long. I’ve told myself you’re my enemy, that we could never—” “But we’re not enemies anymore,” Seraphina interrupted, her voice soft but firm. She closed the distance between them, placing her hand over his. “We’re something else. Something… more.” Azrael swallowed hard, his gaze locked on hers. “I’ve loved you from the moment I realized I couldn’t destroy you. And every day since, I’ve fought that love, afraid of what it would mean. But now… I can’t fight it anymore.” Tears welled up in Seraphina’s eyes as she whispered, “Then don’t.” Their lips met in a kiss filled with the weight of everything they had been through—the battles, the betrayals, the bloodshed—and the promise of everything they could become. But as their love ignited, the distant rumble of thunder echoed in the distance, a dark reminder that their war was far from over. ****End of Excerpt***** Can their love truly survive the chaos that threatens to consume both realms? What will they do when they discover the ultimate price for their bond?

A high ceiling, adorned with intricate carvings and fanciful decor. A warm golden light passing through stained glass highlighting the beauty of justice and righteous valour- a contrast to the maleficent beings that would often face this light- illuminates the room. Upon a raised dais, there is a displeased king, and by his side, stern-faced nobles and court officials stare down menacingly at the accused. Below these extinguished figures, bounded by chains and covered in grime, was a six-year-old girl. "Ixion Akastos Vespera" "In the presence of our sovereign King and the noble dukes of this great nation, you are summoned to answer for the grave crimes alleged against you. The entire house of Vespera, your family and lineage, has been wrongfully slain by a treacherous prisoner of theirs. We have reason to believe you have conspired with the ungrateful fiend, betraying your own blood and committing treason against our liege. How do you answer? Are you guilty or not guilty of this heinous crime?" "Not guilty." "Not guilty? Very well. You shall-" "I killed them myself. Not the dragon, only I." Murmurs erupted among the usually unperturbed high-class nobles. "Is it not according to law that a bloodline inheritor may kill all other potential heirs? As for my unfortunate mother, she was merely an unintended mishap." °°° Alexandra Chase, among a million others, found herself in a deadly game orchestrated by a supreme goddess to gain access to another world. Unfortunately, her life in this new world won't be any softer than the one before it. Her drive is not only to survive but also to supersede those beings who stand above. The goddess's schemes are far deeper than she could imagine. She is granted talent, unlimited potential, and terrifying attunement to the world itself with her new body, but many geniuses die young. Her most capable weapon is a concept many have yet to fathom- her soul.

If you're a Korean romance lover or an animegirl then this book is for you. "Beyond Recovery is a heart-stirring tale of love, forgiveness, and resilience. Olivia and Haneul's journey illuminates the human spirit's capacity for hope and transformation. As they navigate complex relationships, personal struggles, and societal challenges, they discover the transformative power of human connection. Dive into this poignant exploration of: Self-discovery and healing Love's redemptive power Resilience in adversity Join Olivia and Haneul on their transformative path, where hope, love, and redemption bloom."

A young archaeologist is gazing at a huge stone block, his heart filled with curiosity and awe for ancient civilizations. His gaze seems to travel through time and space, back to the cradle of human civilization - the Mesopotamian plain. There, the ancient Sumerians created the world's earliest writing and urban civilization. Their wisdom is like brilliant stars, illuminating the beginning of human history. As time passes, the sparks of human civilization ignite in different regions. The glory of ancient Greek city-states is remarkable. Athens' democratic system, Sparta's martial spirit, and the wisdom of numerous philosophers have jointly forged the glory of ancient Greek civilization. During this period, thinkers like Plato and Aristotle have had a profound influence. Their pursuit of truth and reflection on human nature have laid the foundation for the development of philosophy in later generations. In the far east, Qin Shi Huang unified the six kingdoms and established a vast empire. The construction of the Great Wall testifies to the tenacity and wisdom of the Chinese nation. It is not only a military defense line but also a symbol of the unity and struggle of the Chinese nation. Qin Shi Huang's great unification opened a new chapter in Chinese history, and his political system and cultural policies have had a profound impact on later generations. In India, the glory of the Maurya Dynasty and the spread of Buddhism have influenced the entire Asia. Ashoka's rule brought India to an unprecedented prosperity, and the teachings of Buddhism spread to neighboring countries along with trade and cultural exchanges. The compassion, wisdom, and peace concept of Buddhism have injected new vitality into the development of human civilization. As time goes by, medieval Europe fell into darkness. The constraints of feudalism, the oppression of religion, and frequent wars made the people of Europe live in dire straits. However, the dawn of the Renaissance brought new hope. The masterpieces of artists like Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo have become treasures of human civilization. With their outstanding artistic talent, they have demonstrated human creativity and the pursuit of beauty. The Silk Road connects the east and the west, bringing the blending of trade and culture. Chinese silk, tea, and porcelain are transported to the west through the Silk Road, while western spices, gems, and cultures also enter China. This ancient trade route not only promotes economic development but also strengthens exchanges and cooperation between different civilizations. At the same time, wars are constantly changing the world pattern. Alexander the Great's eastern expedition spread Greek culture to the east and promoted the integration of eastern and western cultures. The western expedition of the Mongol cavalry swept across Eurasia and established a vast empire. Although wars have brought destruction and pain, they have also promoted exchanges and integration between different ethnic groups.

And then, one stormy night, Mara finds herself alone with Ryder, arguing over the future of the studio and her own stubborn pride. In the heat of anger, their faces mere inches apart, Mara loses her words as Ryder pulls her close, his voice low. “You fight so hard, Mara… but you have no idea what you’re fighting against.” The air between them crackles, and as her heart races, he kisses her fiercely, intensely, with a hunger that leaves her breathless. She wants to hate him. She needs to resist him. But Ryder has awakened a fire in her that’s as dangerous as the secrets he’s keeping. And as Mara dives deeper into his world, she’ll have to decide what she’s willing to sacrifice for her art, her father’s legacy, and the man she never wanted to love. In Through Fire and Shadows, pride, ambition, and desire collide, testing the strength of two people who never wanted to need each other.

Poor Lucy Wood never foresaw things getting this dire. She was borne by a slave woman who died after giving birth to her and treated as a slave by her step mother and sister. Shunned and rejected by Alpha Thorne-her fated mate-she is all but shattered in her lonely misery. Yet, the fates can be hilariously sadistic. Not even six months into her abandonment, Lucy finds herself in the custody of the most feared Lycan King, Tristan Landon. Fearsome, with a reputation to make even the bravest cower, Tristan rules with an iron fist, his law extending over the whole realm of the werewolves. Still, beneath the commanding and intimidating exterior, Lucy feels that there must be something far more complicated about Tristan-some dangerous allure, perhaps even a spark of something more than dominance. Thrown into the world of royal politics, ancient bloodlines, and dangerous plots, Lucy's life does another flip when Tristan declares her his future Luna. His impulsive move rattles the very core of the kingdom, further enraging Zara-a cunning she-wolf who laid claim to the position of Luna. Jealousy knows no bounds, and with Lucy's former mate, Alpha Thorne, they become a force to be reckoned with. They both join in an attempt to destroy everything she has ever loved. While trying to learn the ropes of her new position, Lucy learns some shocking truths about her lineage: deep inside her lies a power unlike any other-the power of the Lamia pack, a lineage of Alphas forgotten by time, whose powers can alter the very fate of all werewolf packs. But as Spiderman knows, with great power comes great danger, and soon Lucy's strength will be both blessing and curse. Smitten by his growing feelings for Lucy and his need to control the powerful forces surrounding him, Tristan must ultimately decide if their bond is worth the risk of his kingdom. But when Alpha Thorne kidnaps Lucy's child, an ancient prophecy is illuminated-one that speaks of a great reckoning, one where the future of the packs hangs in the balance of Lucy's talents. Amongst betrayals lurking at every turn and old and new enemies threatening her at every pass, Lucy must make her way through a maze of deceit, love, and power. Now, will she be able to find her trust in Tristan and become the Luna their world needs, or will the darkness within tear them apart for good? This is a thrilling tale of love, power, and betrayal. Lucy must rise above the shadows to claim her own fate before it is too late.

Jace Elinham had died and found himself in front of a being of unbridled power and authority. a goddess! Offered a chance at a second life, Jace has to choose three cards which will follow him to the new world. In return for the second life, he has to slay Seven Great Evil Beasts! "Luck can be a fickle thing, but in a world of magic and monsters, it can often make the difference between life and death." Jace extended his hand and reached for one of the cards, feeling a slight tingle as his fingers brushed its surface. He pulled it free, and the card shimmered, then flipped itself over in his palm. [4-Star Goodluck] A radiant golden glow filled the air around him, and Jace could feel a subtle shift in the atmosphere. The card displayed a symbol of a four-leaf clover, its leaves sparkling with a bright, ethereal light. "There are five levels of luck in both good and bad," the goddess explained, "with five stars representing the highest tier." Jace smirked. "I'll take it. Better than rolling the dice on bad luck, anyway." The goddess nodded approvingly. "Now, for the second draw—your race and background." She gestured to the next set of cards, which were glowing in a deep blue. Jace reached out again, this time with a bit more confidence. He selected one of the cards, and as it flipped over, a brilliant blue light illuminated the platform. [Human – Noble Birth, Goldheart Family] The card showed a coat of arms—a golden heart emblazoned on a field of silver. Beneath it, intricate scrollwork spelled out the name Goldheart. Jace's eyes narrowed as he studied the card, trying to make sense of the symbolism. "Now, for the final draw—your skill." The last set of cards hovered before him, glowing in a mixture of silver and gold. Jace felt a surge of anticipation as he reached for one of the cards. [Skill Draw] [Fusion] He'd receive two skills in one card. Two abnormal skills! "This second chance comes with its own responsibilities. The seven great evil beasts will not wait forever. When the time comes, you must be ready to face them." Jace met her gaze, a flicker of determination in his eyes. "I'll be ready," he said. "And I'll do it my way." The goddess's smile was full of quiet pride as she raised her hand. "Then go forth, and may your journey be filled with fortune and growth." Blessed with these and reborn as Raiden Goldheart, Jace will rise to the pinnacle of magic in his own way, on his own terms, creating a path that's both Heroic and Villainous. He'll create the Path of the Villainous Hero! All so he can fulfill the Request of the Goddess.

For three years, i was a shadow in his life, a mere silhouette, whilst his 'white moonlight' was the radiant sun that illuminated his world. I was always at the receiving end of his disdaining stare, uncaring nature. Our marriage, just a formality for him, a mere piece of paper. I tolerated everything because my love for him was blind and all-consuming. Until that fateful night, when i was losing my sole reason of happiness, crying in agony, calling for help whilst he hurried to comfort his first love. Finally i accepted that his heart is forever closed for me. So i signed the divorce paper and slipped away, leaving the heartache behind. I've never been happier,than i am now, a year after closing that chapter. But why am i pinned under my scumbag ex-husband, his tone intense. “Quite bold of you to think that you can just up and leave, dear wife!" I smiled indifferently “it's ex-wife” His bloodshot eyes locked into mine, a chilling smile on his “I haven't signed those paper yet!”

The first rays of dawn pierced through the dense foliage of the Azure Mountains, illuminating the verdant landscape in a soft, golden hue. High atop one of the mountain's peaks, a figure lay sprawled on the ground, unconscious and battered. As the sunlight caressed his face, his eyes fluttered open, revealing a pair of piercing blue irises.

The world-famous hacker, Dexter, is a woman and she is the daughter of one of the most prominent families of aristocrats, going by the name Daisy Chen. Daisy has stayed away from her family, and juggled from one job to another in disguise or while cross-dressing as her alibi 'Dexter'. It never once got her into trouble, not until she chanced upon him. Ryle Harper, the CEO of Harper Societies, manages a multinational company on the surface but danger lurks beneath every façade he presents to the world. Daisy had decided to tread carefully around the man but trouble always comes uninvited. One night. One mistake. A stranger. An unprepared pregnancy. To keep her façade of being a man and not offend the devil, she did what was feasible… She disappeared without a trace. However, two years later, she finds herself facing him again only to realize that the man was, all along trying to track her down. By a twist of fate, she becomes his secretary again but this time, their deal comes with certain conditions and a time limit. But when destiny rolls its dice and Daisy has to assume the position of the head of her family, how would she escape Ryle's clutches again? Would she want to? Or would he let her? ... “Look at me,’’ his eyes darkened as he stepped towards her. With every step he took towards her, Daisy took a step back until her back hit the wall. The curtains swayed in the night wind, the glow of the pale moonlight illuminating the dark room where she could see the danger lurking in those hazel eyes. She averted her gaze. He pinched her chin and turned her face towards him, ‘’Dexter?” his fingers grazed up to her wig, ‘’Or shall I call you Daisy now? Daisy Chen?” he leaned closer to her, whispering next to her lips. Her lips parted but before she could utter a single word, her wig was tugged off. Her long dark hair came cascading down, answering all his unanswered questions. ''Tell me Daisy, or there are more ways I can make you speak,'' his hand reached inside her shirt, his long fingers grazed on the expanse of her delicate, bare skin, ''You believe me, right?" he whispered. She shivered, partly in pleasure and partly in denial of that pleasure that she felt.

In 1984, America's streets were already a powder keg of crime and chaos. Then came Sean Rockefeller – and he brought matches to the party. But calling him just another troublemaker would be missing the point entirely. Sean wasn't your typical player in America's underworld. While others fought over street corners, he was building an empire that would touch everything from Hollywood to Wall Street. This wasn't just another crime story. This was about transformation: From a pizza shop worker to legal mastermind From street survivor to entertainment mogul From nobody to somebody who made Hollywood executives sweat From target to the head of an elite security operation From hustler to legitimate businessman One bullet to the head should have ended his story. Instead, it was just the beginning. Sean didn't just survive in America's underworld – he rewrote the rules. His empire would stretch from the courtrooms to the movie studios, from private security to legitimate business ventures. Some called him a thug who got lucky. Others said he was a genius who gamed the system. But everyone agreed on one thing: Once Sean Rockefeller entered the game, nothing in America's criminal landscape would ever be the same. They say America is the land of reinvention. Sean Rockefeller took that idea and ran with it – all the way to the bank.

Lila Hayes has always found peace and inspiration in her coastal town, where she creates beautiful lanterns that light up the annual Lantern Festival. Her lanterns are not only a local tradition but also a symbol of hope and renewal. Despite her success, Lila feels a sense of loneliness and longs for a deeper connection. Ethan Lawson, a historian and writer, returns to the town where he grew up after spending years researching and writing about various historical events. He arrives just in time for the Lantern Festival, drawn by its enchanting reputation and the town’s rich history. Ethan is particularly interested in a local legend about a hidden romance tied to the festival. When Ethan visits Lila’s art studio, he is captivated by her lanterns and the stories behind them. Intrigued by the legend, he convinces Lila to help him uncover the truth behind the old tale, believing it could provide the perfect inspiration for his book. As they delve into the town’s history and the legend of a lost romance, Lila and Ethan begin to spend more time together. Their research leads them to uncover hidden places and old secrets, and their collaboration gradually turns into a deep and meaningful connection. Their journey is filled with charming town festivals, late-night lantern crafting sessions, and moments of introspection. Lila and Ethan discover that their own stories are intertwined with the legend they are unraveling, leading to unexpected revelations about their own desires and dreams. As the Lantern Festival approaches, Lila and Ethan face their fears and insecurities. Ethan grapples with the possibility of returning to his life away from the town, while Lila contemplates opening her heart to someone new. Together, they must confront their pasts and make a choice about their future. In the end, “Whispers among the lanterns” is a heartwarming story about love, history, and the magic that happens when we allow ourselves to be vulnerable and open to new possibilities.

In the far reaches of a galaxy shrouded in mystery, Spaceman Sam encounters Lumen, a once-brilliant star now shrouded in darkness and despair. Feeling abandoned and forgotten, Lumen's flicker barely illuminates the void around him. Intrigued by Lumen's plight, Sam makes a bold promise: to reunite him with the celestial companions scattered across the cosmos. Their journey unfolds through a fabric of forgotten worlds, where stars drift aimlessly, their brilliance dulled by the passage of time. As they navigate treacherous cosmic phenomena and confront the shadows of their pasts, Sam and Lumen grapple with the weight of isolation and the search for meaning in a universe that seems indifferent.

Light can illuminate a dark room but it will never get rid of the darkness, it’ll only make it seem like it is no longer there. People despise it but what’s so wrong with darkness? That’s where I was born

In the heart of a bustling city, two women are drawn together by fate and an undeniable connection. Lena is a reserved and contemplative artist, content with the solitude of her studio and the quiet understanding of her canvases. Sophie, on the other hand, is an outgoing, adventurous journalist with a fiery passion for seeking the truth. Their worlds collide unexpectedly when Sophie stumbles into Lena's art gallery during an unexpected storm, seeking refuge from the chaos of life. As their relationship blossoms, their contrasting personalities create an intoxicating blend of love, intrigue, and tension. While their love for each other runs deep, the complexities of life soon begin to fray the delicate threads holding them together. Lena's hidden past, buried under layers of trauma, resurfaces just as Sophie's career takes a turn, leaving her caught between personal desires and professional ambitions. Through secrets, misunderstandings, and unforeseen challenges, the women must navigate the fragile line between love and loss. Can their love survive the weight of their unspoken truths, or will the very things that brought them together ultimately tear them apart? **Copyright © 2024 by Mya Skeete** **Author: Myra Sinclair** **All rights reserved.** This book is protected under copyright law. No part of this book may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the copyright owner, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law. **Published on September 24, 2024.**