Hackaday Prize

"Mana to breathe, mana to eat, mana to fucking live," Inhale: -0.001 MP… oops! You're out of mana points. (Pay-to-breathe RPG.) Humanity's last walled stronghold. _____ In the world Elio lives, every gasp of air comes at a price. A floating indestructible book for every human, a magical system that turns survival into a pay-to-breathe RPG. Here, poverty isn't just being broke, it's choking. Surrounded by barren land and a sea of monsters on top of it (No water, just literal monsters), each day is a suffocating dance of survival, a balancing act between mana for air and mana for food. In this economy, holding your breath isn't just a game, it's a retirement plan. Driven by desperation (and the city's miserly rulers that don’t cut anyone a break), Elio dives into the Book System’s trials to save his family. Along the way, he unlocks powers he didn’t ask for and starts to figure out... Who he really is. Immerse yourself in an adventure where one young man's stubborn refusal to become a statistic could spark a revolution. Who knew being a pain in the system's rear could change the world? Because in Elio's world, breathing is just the beginning of the revolution and... he's gasping for change. But hey, who said saving the world had to be all doom and gloom? Join Elio as he kicks monster butt, uncovers ancient secrets, and maybe, just maybe, figures out how to grow a tree or two along the way. __________ Warning: May contain traces of world domination, an unhealthy obsession with the periodic table, damage points, progression math, and yes, even a sprinkle of that old "power of friendship" magic. Because sometimes, you need a buddy to help you remember which element does what or even help you calculate those sweet, sweet stats. A quick heads-up: Despite what the cover might suggest, this isn’t a hack-and-slash adventure. Think more along the lines of a turn-based RPG, where strategy and choices matter as much as action. Get ready for a different kind of challenge! If you want to know more about the cover: Yep, that's our first FL crying and crossing the transparent barrier straight into a pixelated, indistinguishable sea of monsters. Because why not mix emotions with chaos? She's crazy like that! (Not really... or is she?) Discord to check the visuals: https://discord.gg/W3CjfC2cw4 I’m still working on it in the little moments I find between writing, editing, making more character images, etc. Little by little, we’ll have a Poked... uh, a full SummonDex! Meanwhile, you can check out the ones on Fandom with their... funny descriptions? Or at least I hope so... orz __________ Post-Win-Win Update: Staying Strong! Hey everyone! First off, thank you for all the support during last month's Win-Win challenge. While we didn’t hit the coveted 1000/1000 goal, getting back to 400 privilege chapters is still a huge accomplishment, and I couldn’t be more grateful. So I still will give away some prizes! Now, let’s address the loot: 4 chapters from the 400 privilege milestone 5 chapters from Legendary Castle gifts = 9 extra chapters Plus, I still owe you 6 chapters from last month, so that’s a total of 15 bonus chapters heading your way! I’ll release them little by little alongside the usual 2 chapters per day. This December, there’s an upcoming chapter-unlock event, and I might have saved a few of these bonuses for that to make it extra special. But don’t worry, every chapter I owe will definitely be delivered! Even though hitting Win-Win status might feel out of reach now, we’re still going strong. Your support means the world to me, whether it’s through privilege, gifts, comments, or just quietly enjoying the story. Thank you for sticking with me and keeping this journey alive! Let’s keep pushing forward together! P.S. Keep an eye out for those extra surprises. You never know when they might drop...

After a sudden and inexplicable transmigration, Maximus finds himself in a fantasy world where extraordinary power exists. But he is not without his advantages; he possesses a system that grants him the ability to become stronger as he takes on wives and birthed children. Determined to conquer this new world, Maximus uses his cheat to gather wives and birth children, building up his power and influence. As he gains more allies and resources, he sets his sights on the ultimate prize: ruling the world and surpassing even gods. However, the road to conquest is not an easy one. He must contend with powerful factions, rival conquerors, and unexpected challenges as he builds his ideal empire. But with his cunning mind, he is determined to succeed and become the greatest conqueror the world has ever seen.

In a world where the boundaries between the supernatural and human heart blur, Zuria and Zoe are two women caught in a war between love, power, and an ever-encroaching darkness that threatens to destroy everything they know. Zuria, once a hopeful soul, is now broken by betrayal. Her heart is chained to Fin, a vampire whose promises of love and power have bound her to a life of torment and manipulation. Possessing the ability to control life energy itself, Zuria's powers grow uncontrollably, fed by the torment of her heart and the dark desires of the man who claims to love her. Trapped in a cycle of abuse, Zuria must confront the horrifying choices laid before her—sacrifice her humanity to survive, or surrender herself to the darkness threatening to consume her from within. With each passing day, the line between love and monstrosity blurs, and Zuria’s desperate need to escape becomes a race against time before she becomes the very monster she’s afraid to become. Zoe, a young woman grieving the sudden deaths of her mother and father, is left adrift in a world that no longer makes sense. Consumed by questions of life and death, she stumbles upon a hidden power within herself, awakening the ability to absorb the life force of nature. But with power comes corruption. As Zoe delves deeper into her newfound abilities, dark forces begin to stir, threatening to unravel her sanity and push her to the brink of self-destruction. As she unlocks the secrets of her power, she discovers a deeper connection to the supernatural world—and to Zuria—than she ever could have imagined. Their fates are bound together, unbeknownst to them, as dark forces from both sides of the supernatural realm collide. Christian, a demon scarred by a past of betrayal, is drawn to Zoe, tasked with protecting her from those who seek to use her as a weapon of destruction. But Zoe’s power is not the only thing that attracts Christian—something deeper, something fated, pulls him toward her. Meanwhile, Loki, the prince of Hell, watches from the shadows, his eyes set on Zuria. He believes her power could tip the balance of the war between Heaven and Hell, and he will stop at nothing to claim her as his own. As the battle lines are drawn, each woman must choose her path. Will Zuria escape the grip of the vampire who holds her heart in chains, or will she embrace the darkness that has taken root within her? Can Zoe harness her power in time to stop the ancient forces closing in on her, or will she be consumed by the darkness threatening to swallow her whole? The world as we know it teeters on the edge of destruction. A war is coming, one that will see realms clash, and forces of light and dark vie for control. Allies will be tested, and betrayals will shape the course of history. In a world of broken promises, blood-soaked contracts, and impossible choices, love will be the greatest weapon, and survival the ultimate prize. Will Zuria and Zoe save the world from the impending war between Olympus and Hell, or will their powers become the very thing that shatters it? In a final battle where every soul is at stake, both women must confront their darkest fears, confront the monsters within, and decide how far they are willing to go to claim their fates. Light and dark, love and betrayal—only one can emerge victorious.

Defeated in war, Princess Swan, who has been relentlessly bullied her whole life and crippled by her stepmother and sister, is sent to be the bride of the King of the Beasts—Gale Stormfront—as a prize for his victory. Swan thought that the savage beast would eat her. She will be chewed until there is nothing but bones left in her. But what if Gale wants her to be a remedy for his constant rut instead? This is a tale of a crippled and timid princess and a beast king who is fated to turn into a mindless animal, desperately searching for his fated mate to cure his curse . - Author Note: This novel is a Werewolf novel, as the ML is an Alpha before he becomes the King of Beasts. It contains a lot of R-18 scenes for mature audiences only. Weak-to-strong female lead x doting-but-dark male lead. - Instagram: @foreverpupa

In a world torn between the remnants of Earth and powerful otherworldly realms, humanity clings to survival through the art of taming—bonding with and evolving creatures of immense potential. Akira, a lone wanderer mysteriously transported to this world, discovers he possesses a unique gift: the ability to uncover hidden evolutionary paths for creatures, a talent sought by both allies and enemies. Guided by enigmatic forces and driven by a desire to grow stronger, Akira navigates the labyrinthine Safe Haven, a sanctuary for tamers striving to protect humanity's fragile foothold. As he forms tenuous alliances and delves deeper into the secrets of his new reality, Akira faces challenges that test his resolve, intellect, and morality. Will his rare gift unite humanity against the looming threats, or will it make him a target in a world where survival is the ultimate prize?

Only Netori. I am not interested in c***hold fetish and stuff. MC will only take other women, no one will take MC women. -------- In a world ruled by power, ambition, and fragile alliances, Kael Vortan rises from obscurity to claim his inheritance a barony of fertile lands coveted by greedy lords and kings. But Kael has more than just his wits and sword to carve his path; he is chosen by the enigmatic Netorare System, a power whispered to be the will of Yrdan, the God of Desire and Betrayal. Through the system, Kael gains abilities to shatter bonds and ignite forbidden passions, turning love and loyalty into tools for domination. Rival lords, arrogant knights, and even kings will taste defeat not by the sword, but by the theft of their most cherished treasures, their women. "Your wife smiles at you, but she dreams of me," Kael whispers to a rival lord as he claims his prize. "System Alert: Target’s bond weakened. Initiating ‘Passion Amplifier.’" From noble ladies yearning for freedom to queens trapped in loveless marriages, Kael’s seductive conquest leaves a trail of chaos in its wake. As his power grows, so does the price will Kael succumb to the system’s will, or will he bend the world to his own desires? "Every bond is a chain waiting to be broken. I am the key." Welcome to Vinterra, where love, betrayal, and ambition intertwine in the hands of a baron destined for greatness. -------------- Also if you want to support me beyond Webnovel. Here is the link please check it out and various membership. ko-fi.com/mrtraumamaster Also you can join my personal discord server https://discord.gg/VKuajnDc Another server for Gathering of Authors from different novel- https://discord.gg/pTRnNvQBdG ----- BONUS CHAPTER 10 Golden Ticket - 1 Chapter Massage Chair - 1 Chapters Magic Castle - 5 Chapters Anything beyond this is mass release of 10 chapter.

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

The story begins with Ryu practicing for a marathon, where his brother Tony urges him to come home for lunch. Ryu expresses his desire to join the EX Agency, but their mother is concerned about the admission fee. After learning that the marathon's first prize is $100,000, Ryu vows to win it to secure their admission. He wins the marathon and uses the prize money to buy scholarships for himself and Tony, allowing them to attend the EX Agency. Upon arriving at the EX Agency, Ryu and Tony meet new friends: Kai and Jin. They learn about their weapon training classes and select their primary and secondary weapons. During lunch, they hear rumors from a boy named Wei about a secret weapon hidden in a cave, but Ryu warns against breaking the rules. As they continue their training, the group prepares for a monthly test. They discover that Wei has been researching the cave and the rumors surrounding it. Wei reveals that several students have gone missing, prompting the group to investigate the cave at night. They find themselves in a dangerous situation when they encounter guards and a mysterious figure named Lei, who seeks a powerful weapon. Ryu and his friends fight against the guards, and during the chaos, Ryu discovers a legendary sword. However, Lei captures them, intending to use their blood to awaken the weapon's power. With teamwork, Ryu, Tony, and their friends manage to defeat Lei and escape with the other captured students. After their adventure, they wake up in a hospital, where Master Feng praises them for their bravery. The group learns that the cave has been sealed, and the fate of the legendary weapon remains unknown. As they prepare for their next test, they continue to train and develop their unique weapon abilities. The story ends with the group discovering a portal that leads to another adventure, hinting at more challenges and mysteries to come.

The world of the novels is filled with countless fantasies, it’s a way for people to escape away from reality into their little world hidden deep inside from others. There are a lot of protagonists and antagonists, and also various supporting roles that spice up things here and there, but what if suddenly you are forced and dragged to one against your will. Elandor was one such successful person, but who kidnapped him? Will he be able to find the answers he seeks while he sets out on his journey filled with countless surprises. {Although the ending is rushed due to my poor health and various other reasons, all in all it’s a pretty decent read to pass time.} [No NTR, No yuri but includes netori] Won Third prize in Yearly Harem genre contest. Additional tags- (No system) (twisted love) (yandere) (manipulative mc) (cunning mc) (loyal love interests) (obsessive love) (clingy lovers) (fast-paced) (strong to stronger) (early romance)(special abilities) (unique cultivation technique)(villian mc)(shameless mc) (Polygamy) (transmigration) (multiple worlds) (blackmail)(manipulation)(toxic love) (Previous life talents) (maids) (tsundere) (regret?) Season 1 is upto 82 chapters rest of the story is Season 2. ************ [Warning -R18 with No beta mc, plus if you are here to watch hundred of chapters just to see mc bootlicking FL or here for a spineless/dense mc getting better as the plot goes on, then you are at a wrong place dear!]. #####—-Very Important Author Note——#### I can’t edit initial few chs for small mistakes as it has hundreds of paragraphs and chapter comments, if I did that then those all will be automatically deleted by the Webnovel. Also, this book contains scenes of blackmail, low degree forced scenes and lots of manipulations with heroines which everyone may not like as this book is made for only a few like-minded limited audience. Hope you all are having a nice day! Discord- c2#8780 ………… {Cover is made and edited by me using a free-to-use online Fotor AI tool.} **English used is mostly Uk/British version.

A slave girl living in a magical land finds herself kidnapped by the most powerful man in the world. The demon king. He charms her despite his intimidating appearance, but as soon as she falls for him, she gets taken away and travels accross the land on a quest with a fairy meeting many new handsome men attempting to take her heart. But meanwhile, a plot reveals itself along her quest and an evil sorcerer is not happy with the prize he wants.

Dear Reader, Have you ever had thoughts that questioned the reality around you? What is my true purpose in life? Why doesn't anybody like me? What do others have that I don't; what is this hidden secret behind the feeling of happiness? "Null is he...," that voice, "... who defies the creator," it all started with that dying whisper. He who was once just another speck of the tiniest speck of the universe would have to become the strongest for the sake of his true purpose in life. His lover? Blazing ambition? Treasured new friends? Witness the lengths that Null had to go through to understand what it meant to accomplish one's dreams and triumph over those who sought to crush them. His journey to defy the creator will leave him beaten, battered, and bruised as he chases a lost flame across the cosmos in a bid to keep his lover's soul from dying out. Will he meet his end the same as his predecessor, or will he and his misfit band of allies defy the natural order of the universe as chaos reigns wherever they go? If you've found yourself on a boring rock, craving adventures in an infinitely expanding vast of nothingness, then you're in for the time of your life! Gods and Devils, Angels and Demons, Unicorns and Rainbows, Laughter and Crying, Life and Death, Winning and Losing— all of that and tons more await!!! I've said my piece, now it's time for you, The Reader, to enjoy my most prized creation. Yours Then, Now, and Forevermore, The True Creator

Kaizen Vale, an ordinary man thrust into an extraordinary world, awakens in a void where gods dictate his fate through a mysterious system. Faced with 100 perilous missions—ranging from personal growth to moral dilemmas and chaotic, god-designed trials—Kaizen is challenged to survive a brutal journey where every choice reshapes his destiny. With newfound powers like Ki Control, a sharp wit, and a burning desire to unravel the truth behind his predicament, Kaizen ventures into a world teeming with adventurers, towering wolf-men, cunning elves, and the ever-present threat of death. Each mission brings him closer to the ultimate prize: ascension to godhood. But as Kaizen navigates treacherous alliances, battles monstrous foes, and confronts the darker corners of his own morality, he must decide if the cost of becoming the Almighty is worth the sacrifice. Will he rise to godhood, or will the system break him before he reaches the end? The clock is ticking, and the system waits for no one.

Bro! You wouldn’t believe this! Everything was normal. Me and my bros doing some mining for mana gems for that old sockethole, Somanda like we always do all day, everyday. Me, Fractures, Bonet, Mono-socket, Broadbone and the gang. Then from nowhere, that ungrateful sockethole, Somanda tries to END me! Can you believe that?! I mean, I have told some questionable stories about him caressing my skull affectionately and deeming me his prized undead, but no need to axe a skeleton for something like that, right? RIGHT?! I managed to escape through one of the most convenient and contrived get-aways in all of undead history, even managing to pull a bony one on the Lich bastard by stealing two of his seemingly important possessions which I find out later to be better than I thought they’d be! From there it’s a just a SPIRAL of boneshit left and right! I can’t catch a break! What’s with this atrocious luck, bro?! A voice speaks to me about how I have qualified for something about a something that’s supposedly something’s something! Then I find myself in a new world that reeks of life and gives my bones a disgusted rattle. Powerful beasts and men are at every turn, all lining up to be a huge pain in my PELVIS! GAAAAH! Jeez this is happening too fast! However, even while I’m in the thick of this, the one saving grace is that I got something worth while! A new path of power! I can NOT be an undead! I can be something better than both the Living and the Dead! Immune to the antics from both sides. Well... most of them! I’m no longer on the path for Undeath! Only Lifelessness awaits me! I’m the one who transcends reality in this tale! I am... SKULLIUS! And I’m not an UNDEAD! ...... [Author’s Answers To Popular Readers’ Questions] Q: (IHateArjuun77) -Hey author, is your book trash?- A: (Author) -Haha, screw you dear reader. The answer is NO. The story has elements of comedy, action, magic, adventure and Brutality. Like it gets really dark sometimes. There’s a comprehensive story with characters that I tried my damndest to NOT make generic on top of a cool power system that’s for the most part easy to understand. So its not trash. Q: (IFreakingHateArjuun56) -Hey author why is your first volume so slow paced and... trash?- A: (Author) -Haha. It’s how I designed the First Volume to be. It’s a fun setup that doesn’t focus on many things other than the MC’s mentality, powers and route of progression. The next volumes are normal paced, focusing on the world, the villains and general expansion but all while still retaining the book theme and fun experience- Q: (ShadeIsAPervert001) -Hey author, I instinctively sense that I’ll hate this book, when should I drop? A: (Author) -Is this the same reader?! Anyway, I’ll give a range. Read a minimum of the first 20 chapters to a max of up to chapter 44 before you decide on anything too rash. I’ll hunt down this reader! --- Discord: [ https://discord.gg/8hcraTjzE9 ]

[WARNING: MATURE CONTENT]. I, Lily, thought I had it all: a loving boyfriend, a close friend, and a normal life. But it all came crashing down when I discovered the unthinkable: my boyfriend, Lu Chen, was using me to hide his secret relationship with my best friend. Heartbroken and enraged, I confronted them, but things took a deadly turn. Pushed off a cliff, I should have died. Instead, I awakened in a bizarre beast world where I'm the ultimate prize: a peerless beauty. In this strange new realm, beastmen are gorgeous, while their females are gruesome. The rules are simple: men can have only one wife, while women can have multiple husbands. And if a man is abandoned? Death awaits. A strange rules that supposed to belongs to the men like Lu Chen in my world. Now, I'm the target of powerful beasts vying for my attention. But I'm not interested in their affections; I'm driven by a burning desire for revenge against those who wronged me. And I'll stop at nothing to get it. As I navigate this treacherous world, I'm forced to confront the darkness within myself. " Why on earth did no Males here value their lives, willing to throw it away just to please the female they fancy? One of my husbands said he's going to get me the star from the sky which is nearly impossible but he somehow made it possible, another one willingly sends me all his powers and became useless almost got eaten up by his own, another one will die for me and protect me even when facing an opponent stronger than him". With these faithful husbands beside me, will I still go back even if there's a chance? What of my heart?. read to get more experience, author Gold love you all readers. also don't forget to give me your support, your support means everything to me. Happy Reading

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

Lucy Prize had been dreaming of being the secretary to a billionaire for as long as she can remember. After several years, her effort paid off, and she finally gets to work for a billionaire. Not just any billionaire, but Richard Coleman. Young, enterprising, and so handsome that he has his pictures pasted on the cover of magazines. But there's more than meets the eyes. Lucy gets more than she had bargained for. Will she quit? Will she give up on a life-long dream because of this man? Is there a side to Richard Coleman that Lucy just forgets to see?

When the gods grew bored of eternity, they create the Trials of Ascension....a deadly game where humanity’s strongest are summoned to compete for the ultimate prize;immortality and divine favor. But for Elias, a seemingly ordinary orphan boy chosen to join the trials, his journey ends before it even begins. He was killed in an accident before even entering the game, his soul should have been erased. Instead, Elias returns, resurrected by the power of the Aether Core....an ancient power that predates the gods themselves. The Aether Core doesn’t just bring him back...it makes him a wildcard, unbound by the rules of the divine. Now armed with forbidden powers, Elias must navigate a world of ruthless contestants, monstrous foes, and jealous gods who see him as a threat to their order. As he rises through the brutal ranks, Elias begins to uncover the truth about the Trials. The gods want him erased. The other contestants want him dead. But as Elias masters the Aether Core’s abilities.....absorbing powers from fallen foes and challenging the divine itself....he realizes the Trials aren’t just a game to survive. They’re a war to win. And Elias may be the only one capable of shattering the chains binding both mortals and immortals alike. But every victory comes at a cost, and the Aether Core whispers of a darker purpose. With every power Elias claims, he inches closer to losing himself. As rivalries turn into alliances, betrayals, and outright war, Elias must decide: Will he become humanity’s savior? Or the force that dooms them all? [Ding!] [Initializing....] [Welcome player 223] [You have been chosen!] [Welcome to the game of the gods!] ................... A.N: Well, this is my first book, reviews and feedback will be very much appreciated. Add to library and gift power stone

Have you ever played so many survival games that it became second nature? How? You ask… it's simple, the more you train yourself to notice how to keep your character alive the longer it becomes stuck in the back of your mind. When the game only gives you one life and makes you restart from the beginning you try and win by keeping that one life alive till the end! Only for it to make you want to play the next sequel because of how it ended in the first one. Even though some games are impossible to finish because they are unfinishable by design… Or… is it not just a game or simulation? Ever get that feeling the game is more than just a game? Or that it's too realistic and the graphics are excellent? Or when you could see yourself in the character's position… Is that why many make a character like themselves or a character they would love to meet? Like helping your crush survive and unlock poses, prizes, outfits, or emotes that are meant for a group. What would happen if you survived so well, yet not completing or progressing to the main mission, that the God of that “game” issued you a challenge?.? Many stories of Iseki into books, past or present, or a new world. Yet none about the same universe and being kidnapped to another planet same yet different from a survival game! How long would you last ?.?

Charlie is a nobody. In the small, forgettable town of Maplewood, Charlie barely exists. His days are spent in a haze of lethargy, slumped on a basement couch that smells faintly of regret. His body, soft and bloated, seems to mirror the weight of his apathy—a monument to years of bad decisions and the crushing inertia of laziness. His parents look at him with disappointment, his classmates avoid him like a bad smell, and the girls, even the kind ones, can barely disguise their pity. He’s bullied, mocked, and ignored, but Charlie doesn’t care. Not really. Or so he tells himself. Until one day, a moment so small and humiliating it shouldn’t matter tears open the carefully constructed wall of indifference he’s built around himself. For the first time in years, Charlie feels something stir deep inside—a spark of something raw, terrifying, and undeniable. Then, one night, everything changes. A system appears, a voice in his mind that speaks of transformation, power, and redemption. It offers him a choice: to stay as he is and sink deeper into the void of his existence, or to rise—literally—and reshape himself, body and soul. The system promises him a path, but it won’t be easy. To shed the weight of his old self, Charlie must first face the physical and emotional burdens he’s carried for so long. The path is brutal, filled with trials that test his mind, body, and spirit. But as Charlie begins to claw his way out of the pit of mediocrity, he discovers a world beyond Maplewood—a world of incredible challenges, impossible bodies, and a system that rewards transformation. The ultimate prize? A body forged by effort, determination, and resilience—a body of iron, plasma, and even the golden brilliance of the sun. But each step comes with its own cost, and the system’s promises may hide more than they reveal. Can Charlie rise above the weight of his past, or will the weight of the world crush him once and for all?

*Author's other work (She belongs to the Demon King)* *** They say opposite attracts, that's a lie. Opposites kill each other! When a hot blood meets another hot blood, things are bound to get burnt. That is exactly what happens when the pompous and prideful elven princess, Neriah of the Avelah Kingdom is forced to marry the brash dragon Prince, Barak of the Trago Kingdom. Neriah's goal is to someday break away from her marriage and run away with the love of her life, Lyle of the Niles. While Barak will do everything to keep her as a wife. Neriah is certain she's in love with another, but she's also certain that no one can ignite the kind of passion her husband brings. Her husband who she hates more than anything. Can the flames of passion be drawn from hate? Can that same passion burn down the walls of lies, betrayal, and hurt? Can its ashes transcend into love? Excerpt "I am a rose, a beautiful flower, delicate and precious! But you my dear sir are nothing but the thorny stem! Prickly, dangerous and very harmful!" ranted Neriah while poking his chest with her index finger. "Well you seem to forget one important detail, my love." He calmly grabbed her poking hand. "And what would that be, my fine sir?" "That the thorny stem and the rose grow together. The delicate rose and the prickly thorn, they belong together my dear." "You—" "And no amount of ranting and raging will change that. You think I want to keep a witch like you? You are a pain in the neck. If I am a thorn then you are a piece of fish bone stuck inside my neck. I cannot swallow and I can not spit it out! I just have to bear it!" "You insolent bastard! Do you mean to say I am a burden!" "Well you are no precious prize, are you?" And that was it, she threw herself at him with her claws ready to mar his face, but he was quicker and he caught both her hands with one of his own and pressed her heaving chest upon his. Golden eyes stared deep into hers. They were as green as the fresh leaves on an orange tree. His fingers caressed her face, “You might not be a precious prize, but by the heavens, you are mine.” And his lips fell on hers, and once again, another argument was drowned.

Riyaan Singh & Aryan Kumar, both are teenage boys, a college students from Silver oak university, died in a traffic accident when a train crashed into the bus they was riding in, they died carrying regret where Riyaan failed to confess to his childhood friend and Aryan failed to win the prize money for orphanage kids, a promise that they worked toward their entire life since their not fulfill their dream. Right before their death a melodic voice of an unknown female echoed in Riyaan and Aryan's head. At the same time ,a huge, circular, geometric pattern of light appears under their body as their conciseness drifts away.

In a realm where ancient pacts shape destinies and shadows hold secrets untold, Lady Evayne Everard is the prisoner of her husband’s killer. A pawn in the God King’s games, she is subjected to humiliation and torture. Until a dark lord, a power stronger than the God King, arrives at court to claim her. Unbeknownst to Evayne, her existence is bound by a dark bargain struck long before her birth. Her father, desperate to save his dignity, promised the firstborn Everard child to the enigmatic Shadow Lord in exchange for the destruction of his enemy. What he didn’t know was that the Shadow Lord wasn’t bargaining for a mere human soul. Evayne is not entirely mortal. The Celestial blood of the Fallen Star runs in her veins, making her a rare and powerful prize—one that could tip the balance in the Shadow Court’s eternal struggle against the encroaching mortal kingdoms. But the Shadow Lord has his own plans. He sees Evayne as more than just a pawn. Together, they could unravel the mysteries of her lineage and challenge the ancient forces that dictate their fates. In a tale of sacrifice, betrayal, and unexpected salvation, "The Shadow’s Bargain" weaves a gripping story of two souls bound by fate, fighting to free the realm from the God King’s grip in a world where nothing is as it seems.

Li Wei, a webnovel addict, wakes up in a wild world ruled by powerful, beastly women. In this land, men are rare and treated like prized trophies. Now, Li Wei is the hottest catch, with every beast queen, from the seductive panther Charlotte to the fiery wolf Emma, pursuing him. Armed with his quick wit and webnovel knowledge, Li Wei must survive the jungle of desire, outsmart the women hunting him, and maybe even flip the script on this beastly world. "Now off your trouser it's time to get to work, I want to have babies that look just like you". Charlotte said as she stared at him like a little pervert while licking her lips. "Ehn?! Huh?! Somebody send help!! Aren't you tired? Huh?". Li Wei said in an heartbroken and pitiful voice. "You look so delicious when you are scared hubby". Charlotte said as she laughed hysterically which almost made Li Wei to pee in his pants.

Senior student Victoria Winner is the campus queen and the heiress of her father’s empire, her name and beauty give her the strength to feel she owns the world. She is the hottest girl on campus, yet she doesn't want to date because, for her, no one is above her, and she is too beautiful to date just with anyone. And too proud of herself that no boys have ever kissed her. Girls envy her while she can toy the boys with her fingers. Until one day, a new guy on campus ruined her reputation by kissing her. Oliver Prize is the handsome and hot Alpha of the Valiant Pack, the most feared pack in the entire werewolf community. He was devastated when the elders asked him to watch over his mate from the Sterling Pack since he doesn’t believe in falling in love, and having a mate; for him, it was only a waste of time and energy. Oliver was forced to pretend as a high school senior student transferee at Zenith Academy, and his bad-boy yet mysterious aura made the girls fall for him except with one girl, Victoria. Excerpt: “How dare you steal my first kiss from me?" Victoria hissed as she looked daggers at Oliver. "And why do you ever feel so stressed about it when I can feel you enjoyed that kiss so much? It was just a kiss, Victoria. Besides, you don't even know how to kiss." Oliver replied with a smirk that made her angrier. "If you want, I can give you a kissing tutorial for free." He said and left her without taking a second glance, and that is why Victoria hated him with all her heart. He was the only guy on campus who got the courage to mess with the school queen by kissing her. He hated everything about her especially her guts, but he couldn't deny himself that the kiss he shared with Victoria was the best kiss he ever had. During Victoria's eighteenth birthday, she discovered what she truly is, a secret she can't even tell her best friend. And she realized the world she knew was all lies. Victoria couldn't accept what she was, and she found refuge in the arms of her mortal enemy, Oliver Prize. Victoria realized her archnemesis was her only salvation to survive in the new world full of mysteries and wickedness where she thought she would never belong. Can Victoria protect her heart from falling in love with the boy she hated the most? Is the Alpha going to deny or accept to himself that love exist and it is real when he realizes Victoria Winner, the mate he wanted to reject, captured his heart? (Warning: Contain mature content on the later part of the story.)

[Matured Content] Saving an injured Fae in the forest had not been Islinda's plan, and worse, he turns out to be royalty, Prince Valerie of the summer court, heir and crown prince to the throne of Astaria. But then, humans were wary of those otherworldly creatures while the Fae looked down on the humans, thinking of them as lesser creatures. Islinda and the prince were worlds apart but that didn't stop them from falling in love.  Unfortunately, Prince Valerie couldn't stay in the human realm forever and had to return to his kingdom with a promise to come back for her. And she believed him.  But then, the other one comes instead.  Dark, broody, ruthless yet dangerously handsome, everyone feared Prince Aldric. Even as a fierce warrior and son to the king of Astaria, Aldric is denied his right to the throne and cursed never to take his place because of his dark heritage.  Twisted from the inside and starved of affection, Prince Aldric does what he is best at, causing misery. He captured  Islinda - the woman who has drawn his brother's attention. He stole her from her home for his cruel purpose. If he couldn't have the throne, he could at least play around with his brother's love interest. His new prize.  Islinda hated him. Loathed him for taking away everything that she could have had with the summer prince. He's the villain. Now she has been dragged into the middle of the dirty politics played in the courts of Astaria, not to mention surviving the cold games played by the prince.  But all hope wasn't lost because the cruel prince could tempt her all he wants but he was never going to get the one thing he wants the most. To be loved. He would never have her heart!  Or could he?  ________ "What can you offer me, little human," He grinned, slow and cruel. She would make such a wonderful plaything.  "Please," She begged him, tears now gathering in her eyes, "Just let me go."  "Fine," He shrugged as if it was an easy request, "You can go."  "W-what?" She croaked, finding it hard to believe.  "Little human, you would find out my mind changes very easily." Those words sounded merciful yet she could sense the threat beneath.  But did he really mean?  Islinda didn't sit around to find out as she broke into a sprint. If there was even the slightest chance of him changing his mind, then she would take it. She would not give up hope yet.  She didn't know why but Islinda spared a look over her shoulder after a while and the blood drained from her face at what she saw coming.  Oh no, she just made a terrible mistake.  This was never freedom.  It was a hunt.  And she just became the prey.  _________ Note: This is a dark fantasy book and the male lead is a villain, so don't expect fluffy romance. What to expect? Death, gore, thick sexual tension, and explicit scenes. Also, it is not reverse harem. Gift magic castle = 5 bonus chapters! Come, let us have a wild hunt! 

--- Isabella never chose this. Forced into a marriage with the most feared man in the criminal world, Matteo Antonio, her life is now bound by a contract she didn’t sign willingly. Matteo is a man with a reputation for cruelty, a man who doesn't believe in love or loyalty—only power, control, and the cold, unrelenting pursuit of his own desires. Yet, despite everything she knows about him, despite how much she wishes to escape, there’s something in Isabella that wonders: *What if?* What if there's more to him than the cold exterior he shows the world? Now trapped in a life she didn’t choose, Isabella faces a question that haunts her every day: Will Matteo ever feel for her? Will he ever truly *see* her, not as a prize or a pawn, but as a person? Or will she, slowly but surely, fall for the man who holds her captive—body and heart? It’s a game. One that neither of them can afford to lose. ___________________ "Don't act like this is some big mystery. We both know why I'm here. We both know why I said yes. And we both know you loved my siste" His eyes darkened, his smirk vanishing. He stepped forward, and I stepped back. One step. Two. My back hit the wall. He leaned in close, his breath warm on my cheek. "Who told you," he said slowly, voice as sharp as a blade, "that Matteo *Antonio* has ever had feelings?". I froze. His eyes were like ice, cold and clear, but so much more dangerous. The kind of cold that burned. And suddenly, I felt so stupid. So stupid. All this time, I'd assumed—*no, Gianna told me.* She told me Matteo had feelings for her. She told me he loved her, that she had him wrapped around her little finger. She told me he would have chosen her if she'd stayed. But she was wrong. Because I could see it now, written in his face, in his eyes, in the way he looked at me like I was just another piece on the board. Matteo Antonio didn't *love*. He didn't feel anything at all. "You thought I loved her, didn't you?" His voice was soft, deadly quiet. "Is that why you've been walking around here with your head held so high?" His eyes flicked to my lips, my throat, before landing back on my eyes. "Let me make this clear, *cara mia*." He leaned in so close I could feel his lips brush against the shell of my ear. "I don't love. Not her. Not you. *No one.*" I sucked in a sharp breath, my chest rising and falling so fast it felt like I might choke on it. He pulled away just enough to look me in the eyes, his face unreadable. "Go to bed," he said, turning away from me. His voice had gone cold again, as if the storm had passed. "Tomorrow, you'll learn what it means to be my wife." I stayed there, pressed against the wall, too stunned to move. And as he walked away, I felt it settle into my bones. I wasn't his wife. I was his *prisoner.*

In Willow Grove, 12-year-old Oliver has always felt like an outsider. Oliver, who is bullied by his peers and neglected by his distracted parents, finds comfort in collecting trinkets and abandoned items. One day, he discovers an old pocket watch in the possession of the reclusive Mr. Blackwood, a strange old man with dark secrets. Despite his better judgment, Oliver steals the watch, unaware of the supernatural consequences. That night, as Oliver slips the watch into his pocket, something happens. Suddenly, he sees the ghosts that have always lurked in the shadows: spectral figures floating through the streets, trapped between this world and the next. Oliver, terrified but fascinated, embarks on a journey to discover the watch's mysterious origins and the curse it has placed on him. As Oliver delves deeper, he meets a wise old medium, a troubled young girl with her own ghostly connection, and the vengeful Mr. Blackwood, who will do anything to reclaim his prized timepiece. They must race against time to break the watch's haunting spell before Oliver is consumed by the ghostly realm for good. "The Haunted Timepiece" is a spellbinding middle-grade fantasy that delves into themes of grief, guilt, and the strength of a new family in the face of the unknown.

On 18th birthday, during the sacred mate ritual, his world shattered,he discovers he has two mates: Elijah and Alexandre, two fearsome demon kings ruling the deadly realm. While they are drawn to him, they see Elvin only as a prize—his power and body, coveted by their dark desires and lust. Torn between fear and confusion, Elvin is taken to the demonic realm, leaving behind the only family he has ever known. In the demonic world, Elvinn faces a perilous future. The kings who claimed him are distant, their affection cold and calculating.Everywhere he goes, danger lurks, testing his resolve to survive. The once innocent angel must learn to navigate a realm where betrayal, lust, and violence rule. As Elvin fights to survive, he embarks on a journey to forge his own identity—one that doesn’t rely on his power or his past. Will he find a way to stand tall in the face of the demons who want to use him , or will he be consumed by the darkness surrounding him? Will he be able to make Deadly Demons fall for him of will he get used by him. Torn Between Realms is an erotic tale of survival, mistery, realms and domination.

In the heart of Beijing, under the glittering skyline of progress and power, one man lives a double life. By day, he is a diligent employee in a state-owned corporation, navigating the suffocating maze of bureaucracy, hidden agendas, and tightly wound hierarchies. By night, he becomes a shadow, suppressing his true self as a gay man in a society where conformity is prized and secrets are currency. Bound by the golden chains of stability and cultural expectations, he teeters on the edge of self-destruction as his desires clash with the cold reality of corporate and societal demands. Through chaotic, erotic, and sometimes darkly humorous escapades, he discovers unexpected allies, unspoken rules, and the raw beauty of defiance. The novel chronicles his journey from being trapped—professionally, personally, and emotionally—to slowly reclaiming his freedom. Along the way, we are taken deep into Beijing's corporate culture, its forbidden love affairs, and the vibrant yet suffocating life of a man desperate to escape. This is a story of rebellion, identity, and liberation, set against the backdrop of one of the world’s most enigmatic cities. It is a daring exploration of love, ambition, and the price one pays for freedom. Raw, gripping, and deeply personal, *How I Escaped from Beijing: Odyssey of a Corporate Prisoner* is not just a journey out of a city—it’s a journey toward self-acceptance and truth.

When a group of friends stumbles upon a mysterious advertisement promising a prize of one million dollars for successfully playing a week-long game of hide-and-seek, the offer seems too tempting to resist. No complicated rules, no significant risks-just a childhood game in exchange for a fortune! However, once the game begins in an abandoned mansion deep in the woods, they quickly realize that things are not as they seem. Georgia, the enigmatic organizer of the game, is no ordinary player. Her past is shrouded in dark secrets, and the rules of the game rapidly transform into a terrifying nightmare. Winning the million dollars becomes the least of their concerns when they discover that losing means death. The mansion turns into a labyrinth filled with deadly surprises and traps. Every shadowy corner hides a new danger, and every faint sound sends chills down their spines. As the group struggles to survive, tensions rise, and they begin to distrust one another: could one of them be working with Georgia? Or is the game bigger than all of them? In this gripping thriller, experience a journey packed with horror and mystery, where survival hinges on intelligence, fragile alliances, and the courage to confront their darkest fears. Will any of them uncover the truth behind the game and escape alive, or will they all fall prey to Georgia's sinister design?