Loftus Hall

On her wedding night, framed for infidelity and to be burnt alive? Chu Qianli laughed heartlessly, "I've already written the divorce letter for you, farewell." Feng Yexuan seized her firmly, his cold and sinister voice cutting through the air, "Thinking of leaving? The only way out is over my dead body!" … The Divine Doctor unexpectedly transmigrated into the unlearned Princess of Prince Xuan, and Chu Qianli only wanted to live an easy life without any ambitions. But she inadvertently caught the attention of the obsessive and insane Prince Xuan and accidentally got spoiled to the heavens! One day. The officials approached with gloomy faces, "Prince, the Princess is causing chaos in the Golden Hall again, please reassert your authority!" Feng Yexuan knelt before his wife with a thud, presenting a "taming husband whip" with both hands, "Lili, I've ripped their mouths for you, can you be a little gentler?"

After eight different reincarnations of being a human, Orin Stonewood wakes up in an ancient throne room to realize he’s reincarnated as a dragon, the emperor of the Infernosphere. The Infernosphere was a realm of main fire creatures. Waking up in the body of Zmey Ashbane, he learns about human’s hatred towards his kind. Beasts were just of a single definition to them – maniacal animals that should either be tamed or exorcised. He had spent his previous seven lives through unimaginable sorrow at being killed by his loved one. After dying the same way each time, he couldn’t care less and still would continue to hope for a chance to end the ritual cycle. To live a normal life. However, fate worked in sync with the Ninefold Resurrection Ritual that plunged him into this mystery. To be reincarnated nine times and die through the same source. And in his eighth reincarnation, he committed suicide to escape the recurring sorrow. Now a ruthless Western dragon named Zmey Ashbane, in the ninth and last chance, who governed the entire Infernosphere, must choose what was best for him. Either to end up getting killed by his loved one, become a Beast Tamer’s tame, or die at the hands of a Beast Exorcist. The choice was his to make. Follow Zmey Ashbane riding through the tides of a mysterious world consisting of marked humans, the Great Sage Hall, necrots from the Shadow Legacy who threaten the balance, and beasts from Infernosphere, Abyssal Waters, Noctisveil, Terramagna, and the Aerostorm Peaks. ---- join discord https://discord.com/invite/yhWjUVJQMD

In a sprawling metropolis where the lines between reality and illusion blur, Lara Harper begins to notice the cracks in her world. After a string of inexplicable events—time loops, unsettling strangers, and a photograph of herself in a place she’s never been—Lara is thrust into a psychological nightmare. Her once-familiar city seems alive, shifting and pulsating as though it has a will of its own. The photograph, which shouldn’t exist, becomes the key to unraveling the mystery. Within its frame lurks a shadowy figure, growing clearer with each passing moment. Every clue Lara uncovers only deepens her paranoia: an enigmatic neighbor with cryptic warnings, a seemingly kind friend with secrets of his own, and an eerie text message from someone who knows far too much. As Lara delves deeper, she discovers she isn’t the only one trapped in the city’s grasp. Victor, her steady but haunted upstairs neighbor, and Margot, the alluring and enigmatic woman from down the hall, are drawn into the unfolding madness. Together, they uncover fragments of a terrible truth: their reality is a fractured mirror, reflecting something far darker on the other side. But the city isn’t just breaking—it’s hungry. As time and space collapse around her, Lara must confront the figure in the photograph, the twisted nature of her memories, and the possibility that she is both the hunter and the hunted in this surreal nightmare. In Reflections of the Damned, sanity is fragile, trust is fleeting, and every choice inches Lara closer to the truth—or her destruction. Will she shatter the mirror, or will it shatter her?

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

David Marsh's carefree existence was disrupted when the shocking news of his classmate's attempted suicide reverberated through the school halls. As he struggled to comprehend the turmoil that had driven his classmate to such desperation, a mysterious voice echoed within David's mind. The voice, friendly and benevolent, harbored no sinister intent. Instead, it extended an unexpected request which was to pay a visit to the paranormal hospital where his classmate had been left alone.

An Nuan thought that she was going to have her happy ending, marrying the love of her life when the man left her on their wedding day. "Pei Zhi Yi, the moment you step into the elevator, it's over between us." An Nuan thought that she could stop her fiance from leaving, but that man still left for the other woman. The wedding hall was prepared and the guests had all arrived. With no groom beside her, An Nuan decided that she would marry anyone willing. “An Nuan, if you are willing, then how about considering me as your groom?” Unexpectedly, the young master of the Lin family, Lin Xiao Feng stepped forward to offer himself. An Nuan did not expect much from this marriage, especially when they both agreed that they were seeking to gain something through this marriage. Lin Xiao Feng needed someone as his wife in his political career. Meanwhile, she just needed to marry someone to get over Pei Zhi Yi. As someone who was disappointed by love, An Nuan no longer wanted to believe in love. She never thought that the marriage that she did not expect would turn out better than she had expected. Young Master Lin would pamper her and support her whenever she needed help. Wasn’t their marriage just for show? --- Cover Illustration commission by kirinlukis --- Shared universe with: 1. Loving You Too Much 2. True Love and Other Lies 3. A Lifetime with You 4. The Dragon Beside Me 5. Love So Sweet 6. Commander Qi's Runaway Wife 7. The Wedding Planner's Romance 8. The Author Must Die

In the glittering halls of royalty, power is often born from betrayal, and love can be a dangerous luxury. Gray Montclair, a woman forged by hardship and haunted by secrets, must navigate a treacherous world where family is both her greatest strength and her deepest wound. When the return of a long-lost loved one threatens to unravel the fragile peace between two kingdoms, Gray is thrust into the center of a storm that will test the bonds of loyalty, love, and forgiveness. With her enemies lurking in the shadows and her past refusing to let her go, Gray must decide how far she is willing to go to protect those she loves—even if it means confronting the bitter truth of her own bloodline. Amid whispers of betrayal, the clash of ambition, and the weight of a crown that was never meant to be hers, Gray discovers that the greatest battles are often fought within the heart.

In a world teetering on the brink of chaos, Nile Samir, son of a lower Incharan noble, is thrust into a perilous journey. When he gets invited to study at the exclusive Imperial Academy, no one is happy. After all, as a member of a lower noble house, to study blood magic is akin to sacrilege. But when an attack in the capital brings him face to face with the rebel general, Anrika The Serpent Slayer, he is forced to spy on the very mages he so greatly idolized. But as he navigates the treacherous halls of the Imperial Academy, teeming with both opportunity and danger, he uncovers a dark conspiracy that threatens to unravel the delicate balance of power. With the discovery of a new form of blood magic, and a growing sense of unease, Nile must confront his destiny and the sinister forces that lurk within the shadows, as well the external threats. Together with an eccentric scientist, a disillusioned mage and a blind thief, he will have to do all he can to save the island of Eltera Nove from certain doom.

Anastasia Harrison, a young woman abused by her cruel family, thought her life was over when they forced her to marry Richard, the sleazy black sheep of the wealthy Wallace family. Meanwhile, her favored younger sister, Michelle, was set to marry Xavier, the elder brother, who was a CEO. Yet, an error at city hall ended up swapping their names on their respective marriage certificates. "What is this?! How are you married to Xavier Wallace?" "You're not getting any food or water until you sign the divorce papers!" To add fuel to the fire, the old Mr. and Mrs. Harrison passed away, leaving all their assets to Anastasia and not the rest of the family. This drove the Harrisons to their breaking point. To trade for a peaceful life, Anastasia was willing to leave her inheritance and leave the family, but the Harrisons had other plans in mind. They wanted to get rid of her. Permanently. However, it was by a stroke of luck that Anastasia was found by her new husband, Xavier, before her family succeeded. Determined to get her revenge, she struck a deal with Xavier. "Continue to be my wife and I will help you get your revenge!"

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.

[Volume 1: The Land of Elves] Completed. As a boy was walking home, a mysterious vase suddenly fell from the sky, crashing in front of him with such force that a cloud of smoke rose up from the impact. The vase looked very valuable and beautifully made, leaving the boy confused as to why something so lovely would be thrown away. Not wanting to let such a stunning object go to waste, he took it home and set it on his table, unaware of the trouble his actions were about to bring.

Lee Sia is a top actress with the ability to see ghosts. After an accident, she wakes up in the body of 'Camilla Sorpel'. The problem is... "Ah, father! Please spare me!" ...that this woman always meets a gruesome end! Since extending the lifeline is a priority, let's start by communing with the ghosts here, shall we? "You will get a divorce soon." "...What?" The atmosphere in the conference hall suddenly becomes uncomfortable again as the hummed words hang in the air. "What are you talking about now......?!" "Your servant's wife." The bewilderment is evident on the face of the person subjected to these words. "She is also the wife of a subordinate whom she cherishes the most." "W-What......?!" "Have you heard of my rumors?" Camilla smiled and took a step closer. "They say that the princess of the Sorpel family is looking at some fortune-telling."

In the cold, quiet halls of Greystone Orphanage, Lily's only comfort is the Mother-a tiny, mysterious figure who has always been by her side. But when Lily is adopted by a wealthy family, she steps into a world of luxury-and cruelty. Her new sister, bitter and resentful, becomes a tormentor, while the Mother's whispers grow darker and more demanding. As the line between friend and enemy blurs, Lily must uncover the truth before it's too late.

In a remote, ancient manor hidden deep within a mystical forest, Evelyn, a spirited and independent young woman with an urban style, seeks solitude and a fresh start after purchasing the property at a bargain price. However, her dreams of a quiet life are shattered when she discovers that the manor is haunted by the spirit of Lady Genevieve Blackwood, a noblewoman wrongfully accused of murder centuries ago. As Evelyn navigates the eerie and enchanting world of the manor, she encounters Damien, a mysterious and brooding figure who has been tied to the manor’s tragic past. Drawn together by fate, Evelyn and Damien form an unexpected bond as they unravel the dark secrets surrounding Genevieve’s death. Whispers of betrayal and hidden truths echo through the halls, urging Evelyn to uncover the real story behind the manor’s haunting. As the pair delves deeper into the manor’s history, they uncover a web of intrigue involving powerful enemies, jealousy, and a quest for vengeance that has lingered for generations. Together, they must confront their fears, face the remnants of the past, and ultimately decide whether they can rewrite history to bring justice to Genevieve’s name. Filled with elements of romance, mystery, and fantasy, this tale explores themes of redemption, love, and the fight for truth in a world shrouded in darkness. Evelyn’s journey transforms from a quest for solitude into a daring adventure, where she discovers the power of connection, courage, and the enduring strength of the human spirit.

While running and trying to escape from a mob of villagers on his 4th birthday. Naruto finds a mysterious and abandoned temple in the Forest of Death. He hid himself inside. After making sure the anger villagers hadn't followed him. He decided to take a look deeper inside the temple. When Naruto comes to the end of the hall he entered a large room with pictures of multiple different kinds of animals of all shapes, sizes, and forms, that covering the temple walls. Let's see what happens.....

Elsa was always tired of her Rick kid life wanting to experience life like normal people goes to city p to stay with her aunt Abigail who though lovely can be a handful .She starts high school, Elsa faces a world of unfamiliar faces and social hierarchies. As she navigates the halls, she encounters both unexpected friendships and fierce rivalries. Love blossoms when Elsa meets Jake , a charming [positive quality] classmate who challenges her perspective. However, navigating the path to love isn't easy. Elsa clashes with Hailey a popular student who thrives on maintaining the status quo and sees Elsa as a threat. Through a series of twists and turns, Elsa grapples with her newfound independence, the challenges of high school life, and the complexities of love. She learns valuable lessons about friendship, self-discovery, and the importance of staying true to oneself. Will Elsa find her place in this new world? join me as we uravel the secrets of the high school in city p .

Follow a spider creature through the world she was born into. An island surrounded by a dome of mist that spews killing rain every other day, and creatures that should not even exist in this world. 'This story uses characters from both trinity and dark halls. I'm making this as a side project while I rewrite the first few chapters of trinity and beyond.' https://youtube.com/@sparklingwallgamesofficial?si=14IuooZG6Z2sQE-t

When the naive and kind-hearted Lian Yun enters the grand palace as a mere servant, she dreams only of a peaceful life. But the glittering halls hide a web of treachery and ambition, where power is gained through manipulation and cruelty. Unwittingly drawn into the palace's ruthless political games, Yun becomes a pawn in the schemes of others, enduring betrayal, heartbreak, and near-death experiences at the hands of those she trusted. Her suffering hardens her resolve, and the once-innocent woman learns to wield her wits and charisma like weapons. Embracing the game she once abhorred, Yun begins her rise through the ranks, outmaneuvering rivals and even the emperor himself. No longer the naive girl who first entered the palace, she emerged as the Empress Dowager of the Yin Dynasty, a cunning and powerful figure who holds the empire in her grasp. But as the crown rests upon her head, Yun faces a haunting question: at what cost has she achieved her throne? In a world where every victory is built on sacrifice, The Chamber of Secrets explores the transformation of a woman who learns that survival demands not only strength but the courage to embrace her darker side.

He fell when demons swarmed these halls, but now he rises again with old memories intact. Once a mage of renown, he returns as a nameless initiate, working quietly to steer nobles toward cooperation. If he can mend old rifts and inspire unity, the horrors that once claimed them all may never return.

Welcome to Chandrakund. You’ll never leave in silence. When journalist Julie Joseph arrives in the abandoned mining town of Chandrakund, she’s searching for answers. Decades ago, the entire population vanished, leaving only eerie remnants of their lives behind. Old cassette tapes, found in the crumbling town hall, hold the final confessions of the residents—and the truth about the entity that doomed them. They call it The Sound, a force awakened deep within the mines, a predator that hunts not with teeth but with whispers. It knows your secrets, your guilt, and your grief, and it won’t stop until it consumes you. As Julie uncovers the town’s chilling history, her own painful past resurfaces. The Sound isn’t just manipulating the shadows of Grey Hollow—it’s digging into her mind, twisting her memories, and reviving the guilt she’s tried to bury for years. Time is running out. Trapped between the echoes of Chandrakund’s past and the whispers of her own trauma, Julie must face a horrifying truth: silence isn’t just an absence—it’s alive. In The Silent Town, the line between the living and the lost is blurred, and every sound could be your last. Perfect for fans of Stephen King and Shirley Jackson, this supernatural thriller will leave you questioning every creak, whisper, and silence in the dark.

In Yuehua Holy Land, the chief disciple of the Third Hall, Jiang Yulin, is actually a transmigrator!

In the mystical realm of Tenria, where magical abilities and martial prowess reign supreme, the prestigious Academy of Fade stands as a beacon for aspiring warriors. Amidst its hallowed halls, 17-year-old Kaito Yamato harbors a extraordinary secret: unparalleled strength. Despite his abilities, Kaito deliberately loses duel after duel, accumulating an astonishing 1,000-match losing streak. Content with observing and learning, Kaito's true intentions remain masked. Kaito's life takes a drastic turn when his girlfriend, Elara, leaves him for the academy's reigning champion, the charismatic and powerful Axel Vander. Heartbroken but unbroken, Kaito resolves to rediscover his passion and unleash his true potential. As he embarks on a journey of self-discovery and intense training, Kaito sets his sights on the coveted Intercontinental Tournament. Will Kaito's dormant fury propel him to victory, or will his penchant for secrecy jeopardize his newfound determination? Dive into the world of Fade Academy, where action-packed duels, romance, and fantasy intertwine.

it's my first time in Writing. so sorry in advance. Synopsis: In the celestial halls of Vaikuntha, Lord Krishna, the eternal flute player and divine protector, finds himself yearning for something beyond the divine monotony. Curious to witness the lives of mortals he once guided, he decides to descend to the earthly realm, leaving behind his divine status to live as a simple mortal. Reincarnated as Krishan, a humble musician in a small, picturesque town, he rediscovers the joys and challenges of human existence. As he plays his flute under the mortal skies, he feels a connection stronger than ever with the world of love, laughter, and heartbreak. Amidst the bustle of life, Krishan encounters Ananya, a spirited artist with a past that mirrors the storms in her heart. Drawn together by the threads of fate, Krishan and Ananya form an unbreakable bond. For the first time, Krishna experiences the profound vulnerability of human emotions. Yet, as their love deepens, his divine origins begin to cast shadows on their happiness, challenging his very existence in the mortal realm. Can the eternal Krishna reconcile his immortal identity with the mortal love that has awakened his heart? Or will the divine balance of the universe demand a sacrifice that could change everything ,A tale of love, self-discovery, and the delicate interplay of divinity and humanity, Eternal Strings weaves a captivating story of a god who dared to embrace the fleeting yet profound beauty of mortal life.

In a world where vampires and humans coexist, Princess Winter is forced into an arranged marriage with Prince Ryker, a mysterious and powerful vampire prince. As Winter navigates the complexities of royal politics and supernatural threats, she uncovers dark secrets that changed her life forever. Extract..... Winter's thoughts swirled as she descended into the castle's grand hall. Her father, the king, stood beside a tall, dark-haired figure. The vampire prince. "Ah, Winter, my dear, this is Prince Ryker," her father announced, his voice booming. She felt her heart stop beating as she stared at this handsome creature; he was very pale but different from how books described them to be; she felt Emma stiffen with widened eyes; "I am dying, princess." Winter swallowed hard as she clenched her fist. Prince Ryker's piercing gaze seemed to bore into her soul.

"Shadows Over Intramuros: A Manila Mystery" weaves a captivating tale set against the historic backdrop of Metro Manila's oldest district, Intramuros. When Juan Dela Cruz, a young IT specialist with a penchant for solving puzzles, receives a cryptic invitation, he is unwittingly drawn into a game that blurs the line between reality and the supernatural. Each challenge leads Juan and a group of unlikely allies through the hidden corners of Manila, from the eerie halls of abandoned Spanish mansions to the bustling streets shadowed by modern skyscrapers. As they delve deeper into the game, they uncover clues that tie the challenges to the rich tapestry of Filipino history and mythology. Ghosts of the past and legendary creatures from Filipino folklore come to life, forcing the group to confront their fears and test their limits. But what starts as an adventurous quest soon spirals into a dark journey into Manila's colonial history, revealing long-buried secrets that have been hidden within the city's walls for centuries. "Shadows Over Intramuros" is more than a tale of adventure and supernatural intrigue; it's a story about the power of history, the bonds of friendship, and the courage to face the unknown. As Juan and his companions unravel the mystery behind the game, they learn that the true treasure is not the game's promised reward but the journey itself and the secrets of Manila that they bring to light. With each step, they leave the shadows behind, bringing forth the true spirit of Intramuros and its enduring legacy in the heart of the Philippines.

In the heart of the countryside stands the ancestral Ravenswood castle, where Ophelia Ravenswood seeks refuge from her tumultuous life. However, as she settles into the age-old halls, she finds herself enveloped in an eerie atmosphere filled with supernatural occurrences. Mysterious love confessions begin to appear, penned in elegant script on parchment and inscribed on the castle walls, drawing her deeper into the castle's haunting history. One fateful night, compelled by curiosity, Ophelia confronts the ghostly presence that has captured her heart. In a stunning revelation, the spirit materializes before her, revealing an uncanny resemblance to the portrait of her great-great-uncle, a man lost to time. His longing gaze speaks of a love that transcends life and death, binding their fates together. As Ophelia grapples with the truth of their connection, she must navigate the complexities of familial secrets and the spectral chains that tether her ancestor to the castle. Will she embrace a love that defies the boundaries of reality, or will the weight of her heritage pull her back into the shadows?

Grand Inquisitor Llyris Mordane is a legend—a hero with a reputation as the empire’s most feared enforcer. But behind the accolades lies a man shaped by the grim realities of power. In his brutally honest memoirs, Llyris pulls back the curtain on his rise through the ranks of the Inquisition, revealing the dark secrets, moral compromises, and bloody deeds that earned him his title. Step into halls of the inquisition, if you dare, but be prepared—once you cross this threshold, there is no turning back.

In the captivating world of Veridian, where magic permeates every aspect of life, Belle Corvus is an ordinary young man with an extraordinary destiny. Despite possessing what appears to be the weakest magical ability, Belle soon discovers that his true power lies dormant within him, waiting to be awakened. Belle's journey unfolds within the hallowed halls of an unnamed academy, where aspiring mages hone their skills under the guidance of seasoned mentors. Initially dismissed as a mere novice, Belle's unassuming demeanor belies the immense potential that lurks beneath the surface. As Belle navigates the challenges of academy life, he grapples with the limitations of his seemingly feeble magical talent. However, with determination and perseverance, Belle begins to uncover the true extent of his abilities, surprising both himself and his peers. As Belle's powers grow stronger, so too does the magnitude of the challenges he faces. From confronting ancient prophecies to thwarting dark sorcery, Belle must navigate a treacherous path fraught with danger and deception. Driven by a desire to protect his friends and safeguard the future of Veridian, Belle embarks on a quest that will test his courage, resilience, and unwavering determination. With each step forward, he inches closer to unlocking the secrets of his past and embracing his role as the legendary hero destined to save Veridian from the forces of darkness.

Ava Hamilton and Ethan Hall's lives are bound together by a shared secret: their contract marriage. Ava, driven by a burning desire for revenge against those responsible for her parents' tragic fate, seeks to exploit the vast resources of Ethan's powerful family. She hopes to uncover the truth behind her parents' murder and bring the perpetrators to justice, no matter the cost. Meanwhile, Ethan needs a wife to secure his position in the family business and appease his grandmother, the ruthless and cunning matriarch of the family empire. He believes Ava's beauty, intelligence, and determination make her the perfect candidate for the role. As they navigate their complicated alliance, they must confront their own dark pasts. But amidst the danger and deception, they begin to realize that their feelings for each other go far beyond mere convenience. They start to experience the thrill of forbidden love, a romance that could jeopardize their entire plan. As tensions escalate, Ava and Ethan must decide whether their growing passion is worth risking everything. Will they continue to prioritize their original goals, or will they succumb to the allure of a love that could change their lives forever? Against the backdrop of luxury and deceit, Ava and Ethan must navigate a complex web of power struggles, family dynamics, and hidden agendas. Will they emerge victorious, or will their marriage become a casualty of their families' endless quest for power? And will their love survive the secrets and lies that surround them? Excerpt: Ethan's eyes gleamed with amusement as he whispered in Ava's ear, "You know, wife, you're adorable when you're trying to be stern." He was leaning against the wall, his arms crossed, his gaze fixed on her with an intensity that made her heart race. Ava's eyes flashed with irritation, her cheeks flushing. "Ethan, stop teasing me. We need to focus on our plan." She tried to sound firm, but her voice trembled slightly, betraying her frustration. Ethan's grin only grew wider. "Oh, come on, Ava. You know I'm just trying to lighten the mood. You're so serious all the time." He pushed off the wall, his movements fluid and graceful, and took a step closer to her. Ava's hands clenched into fists, her voice firm. "This isn't a game, Ethan. Our lives are at stake. We can't afford to make mistakes." She tried to sound convincing, but her eyes kept drifting to his, and she couldn't help but notice the way his eyes crinkled at the corners when he smiled. Ethan's expression turned innocent, his eyes sparkling with mischief. "Who says I'm not taking it seriously? Maybe I'm just trying to distract you from the tension between us." He raised an eyebrow, his gaze fixed on hers, and Ava felt her heart skip a beat. "There's no tension, Ethan. We're just allies in this marriage pact," she lied, trying to sound convincing. But her voice was barely above a whisper, and Ethan's knowing gaze made her feel like he could see right through her. Ethan's chuckle was low and husky. "Keep telling yourself that, Ava. But I see the way you look at me sometimes... like you're trying to resist a temptation." He took another step closer, his eyes locked onto hers, and Ava felt her pulse race. "I don't know what you're talking about," she lied again, trying to sound convincing. But her eyes darted away, betraying her. Ethan's whisper was soft, his breath caressing her ear. "Oh, but I think you do, Ava. And soon, you'll have to admit it." His words sent shivers down her spine, and Ava knew she was in danger of falling for her husband's charms, even though she refused to admit it. The air was charged with tension, their banter a delicate dance of denial and attraction. And in that moment, Ava knew she was walking a thin line between resistance and surrender. THE COVER PICTURE DOESN'T BELONG TO ME. CREDIT TO THE RIGHTFUL OWNER

In the prestigious halls of the Arcanum Academy, where the best knights and mages of the kingdom are forged, Alaric Draymont is just another unremarkable face in the crowd. A bastard child of a powerful noble, Alaric hides his extraordinary talents, knowing that standing out could draw the wrath of his family—who would not hesitate to eliminate him to protect their name. Trapped in the shadows of fear and mediocrity, Alaric lives by one rule: stay invisible.