Gild

Having spent her childhood confined in chains, Alice was a child who knew neither love nor joy. Scorned by her family while being tortured in the name of the greater good for years, she grew numb to all feeling and thought. That is, until one day, a man in black offered her a chance to escape. There were once rumours widespread of an endless hell, a land of glorious death and dreadful opportunity. Fools went in search of it, and the clever never ventured into it. Only when its baleful mysteries spilled unto the earth did all hear its name — the Abyss. A single drop of its blood could give someone the power to control shadows, move faster than sound, or strength greater than the strongest man. Yet, it all came at a cost; the blood would always make sure those who consumed it became part of the Abyss, with one exception — Alice. Cast away by her own blood, it was her destiny to rot in a gilded cage. But, that fateful day changed everything. Gifted a second chance at life, a chance to turn her life around and claim vengeance against her family, a chance to dive deep into the Abyss and gain the power to govern her own fate, Alice took his hand, unaware of the destiny unfolding before her. Discord: https://discord.gg/vrdTSkj8Va Author Notes: This is my third book, going to take what I learned from before to improve. This book will be focusing on plot, action, depths of character bonds and overall a darker tone/take on this cruel fantasy world I've cooked up for this book! If you give this book a try, I hope you enjoy! A very different experience and tone to Nanomancer Reborn.

Waking up from a coma, Prince Shantanu finds himself back in a world teetering on the edge of cosmic conflict. Reincarnated with memories from a life he barely understands, he navigates the gilded halls of Astradhal, where gods, demons, and ancient powers stir in the shadows. Gifted with a knack for deception, Shantanu uncovers secrets that bind him to an ancient prophecy—one that could either save his kingdom or plunge it into chaos. As God himself intervenes, leading a demon through realms of illusion, Shantanu must decide whether he’s merely a pawn or the key to a world reshaped by fate.

[Will you open the Gilded Box?] [Possible reward A: Ascension for all of Humanity] [Possible reward B: Extinction] … On the first day of high school, a mysterious boy with an unknown background appeared at Bharat's most prestigious and futuristic school. At first, no one noticed anything unusual about him. When it was time for everyone to introduce themselves, the boy stood up to share his introduction. He began by revealing his name: Abhi. However, he seemed unsure about many other details concerning himself, as if he had no memories of his past. But when asked about his hometown, his answer shocked everyone to their core. He revealed that he came from Rakvill, a city erased from time and history—a place believed to be the legendary City of Gold. Who is Abhi? Why did he enroll in the greatest school in the country? And most importantly, how did he come from a place that has been forgotten by time and history? … A group of high school students who were secretly researching 'Rakvill,' decided to acquaint themselves with Abhi to unveil the mysteries hidden in his memories. During their search, Abhi, Transmigrates into game-like realms filled with distorted realities. He must clear all the levels in these realms to reach their ultimate goal: the legendary City of Gold.

Ludwig Heart, the heir to a vast fortune and a life of luxury, craves only one thing: freedom from his gilded cage. But when a plane crash catapults him into a world of magic and danger, he awakens not as the hero he dreamed of, but as a victim in a twisted ritual. Trapped between the ambitions of dark necromancers and the wrath of vengeful gods, Ludwig must navigate a deadly new reality where his life is no longer his own. Stripped of privilege and resurrected as an undead pawn, Ludwig’s fight for survival will determine whether he reclaims his destiny—or becomes a mere footnote in a world of shadows and deceit.

In the sprawling metropolis of Shanghai, where ancient pagodas sit beside glass skyscrapers, two lives intertwine in the relentless pursuit of success and belonging. Liu Wen, a young woman from a modest town, arrives in the city with nothing but a dream and her tenacious work ethic. Working tirelessly in a high-rise office by day and studying for her business degree by night, she aims to prove that success can be built brick by brick. Yet, the weight of urban life and the allure of easy shortcuts constantly test her spirit. On the other side of the city, Chen Kai, heir to a growing tech empire, navigates the gilded traps of wealth. His ambition has always been to prove his worth beyond his family's name, but the glitter of the city often blinds him to life’s true values. Burdened by expectations and hungry for connection, he yearns for love that transcends social status. Their paths collide in an unexpected moment—a night when city lights blur, and strangers become confidants. Through late-night conversations in hidden cafés and chance meetings in crowded subway cars, they discover a shared dream of something more profound than money and fame. Will their love survive the trials of ambition and the ever-turning wheels of the urban jungle? And can they reconcile their differing worlds to build a future together, or will the city swallow them whole, as it has countless others?

Two centuries after the Great War, peace between humans and werewolves was finally achieved, or so everyone believes. Werewolves reign like gods, and humans remain blissfully unaware of their true place in the new world order. To maintain this fragile balance, each year, a handful of "lucky" humans are selected from various districts to attend Lunaris Academy, a prestigious institution that promises glory, status, and a chance to mingle with the elite. Those chosen are hailed as the lucky few, destined to marry powerful alphas and rise as luna. This year, Violet Purple is among the chosen, much to everyone's surprise. For an orphaned girl adopted by a disgraced prostitute, this is a golden ticket to a better life or so she's told. But Lunaris Academy isn’t the paradise it’s painted to be. Everything Violet and her fellow humans have been taught is a lie. Humans are far from equal; they're pawns in a much larger game. The academy is nothing but a gilded cage, and the students are lambs led to slaughter, playthings for the alphas to toy with in their ruthless games. To make matters worse, Violet catches the attention of the most dangerous players in this game, the Terror Four: the Alpha of the North, Alpha of the South, Alpha of the East, and Alpha of the West. Each one is more dangerous, more twisted, and more powerful than the last. But even among themselves, the alphas are divided, each with their own deadly ambitions. Yet, they all have their eyes on her. They expect Violet to play along, to fall in line like the others who worship at their feet, to break under their games. But Violet isn’t like the others. She refuses to bow. She’ll defy them all. *********** With a grin that made her uneasy, he handed the application to her. “Approve this one.” Principal Jameson’s curiosity got the better of her as she took the paper from him, her eyes scanning the text. Almost immediately, her breath caught in her throat, her eyes widening in disbelief. “What the...?” “It’s perfect, isn’t it?” Asher’s voice was almost gleeful. Fucking psychopath! Jameson could hardly believe what she was reading. “Mr. Nightshade, with all due respect, this applicant….this girl just admitted to—” She couldn’t even finish the sentence, still horrified at the explicit nature of the application. Taking a deep breath, she continued, “I’m sorry, but I cannot approve this.” “She’s issued me a challenge,” Archer said, a dark gleam in his eyes. “What?” “‘Wait till you see me in bed,’” he repeated the bold line from the application, his grin widening. “And I can’t wait to find out.” “Mr. Nightshade—” He stood up, cutting off her protest as he fixed her with an intense stare. “Approve the application. I won’t ask again.” Without waiting for her response, Asher strode out of the office, confident she would follow his orders. He always got what he wanted. Archer Nightshade walked down the hall, a spring in his step. For the first time in a long while, he felt alive, his blood pulsing with excitement. The other Cardinal Alphas had no idea what he was up to, but it would soon hit them. He’d just set the game in motion. And the target was Violet Purple. It was game on. Note : This is not your average werewolf story. Eveything you think you know about werewolves would be challenged in this book. And yes, it is reverse harem. Do give the book a try.

The kingdom of Aethel shimmers under the midday sun, its opulent castle a testament to the legacy of its rulers. At the heart of this gilded fortress resides Princess Anya, a young woman sculpted into the epitome of royal perfection. From a young age, Anya's smile has been practiced to radiant precision, her every action a display of unwavering obedience. Yet, beneath the flawless facade, a flickering flame of curiosity and longing tugs at her heart, a yearning for a life beyond the carefully choreographed existence she's been forced to accept. Anya's world is upended when her father, the King, announces her arranged marriage to Prince Darius of a neighboring kingdom. Anya accepts the news with her characteristic poise, but a thrill of anticipation and unease settles over her. A new kingdom, a new life – perhaps it holds the chance for something more than just duty. However, as Anya and Darius embark on their journey to his domain, the prince's charming facade begins to crack, revealing a colder, more calculating man beneath. The veneer of a loving marriage crumbles faster than a sandcastle in a storm. Darius's indifference morphs into a calculated cruelty that thrives on Anya's silence. He revels in subtle jabs and public humiliations, chipping away at Anya's spirit with each barb. Yet, through it all, Anya remains the picture of stoicism, her smile a weapon against the emotional warfare that has become her waking life. Tragedy strikes when Anya discovers she is pregnant, a glimmer of hope in the darkness of her marriage. But this hope is shattered when she suffers a devastating miscarriage, one that is revealed to be the result of a calculated act of poison. Anya's grief is compounded by the betrayal, as she learns that Darius, with his mistress Esme, orchestrated the loss of her child. The death of Anya's unborn child marks the end of the obedient princess and the birth of a woman hardened by betrayal and determined to seek justice. Anya begins to shed her role as a passive observer, educating herself in the ways of court politics and forging alliances with disgruntled nobles. Her transformation is aided by the arrival of Princess Genevieve, Darius's younger sister, who proves to be an unexpected ally in Anya's quest for vengeance. As Anya and Genevieve's bond deepens, they hatch a daring plan to expose Darius's cruelty and corruption. During a grand celebratory feast, Anya and Genevieve orchestrate a series of revelations that shatter Darius's carefully constructed image. #Yuri #Princess #betrayl #love #heartbreak #romance #cute #lovelife #lovestory #relationship #commitment

*WARNING!!!* EXTREME LEVELS OF CULTURE!! *Lemons? - In excess!!!* *V's? - Of course yes!!* *Plot? - Divine!! ******** According to Elven tradition, every firstborn prince, upon his 18th birthday, would become husband to seven elven goddesses in exchange for blessing the land of Sylvandar with abundance. And so the cycle continued, each generation bound by an ancient promise, a marriage of duty rather than desire. That is, until the sixteenth king of Sylvandar threatened to break the cycle. Refusing to wed his only son to 'some depraved goddesses of old,' he locked the prince away in a tower right from birth. It was gilded and golden and extravagant, but it was always a cage. ___ Locked away, Ashen's fantasies of a goddess started one night, and he had an instant obsession for the goddess in his dreams. She was built like a temptress would be. She was lithe, like a reed by a calm stream. He didn't know why, but he instantly trusted this goddess. As soon as he saw her, some magic took hold of him. "Are you here to claim me?" "Your father has given you to us." "How did he give me to you? What does that mean?" "You should not fear me," She said softly, instead of answering. She held up her hand when Ashen opened his mouth, shaking her head and cutting him off. "No harm will ever come to you." The king had arrived home that night, and he was yelling, screaming. "Where is he? Where is my son!" The doorknob rattled, and the goddess could smell his fear on the other side. It was something to make her grin with pleasure. She waited for the king to kick through the door and burst the lock free, let him see her holding Ashen, let him take in the view of his son lost to tradition. "The elven tradition has been fulfilled, King Galahad," she said lightly. The shout of horrified despair was music to her ears when she willed Ashen and herself home together. ___ But as it turned out, Ashen had spent all his life in a tower and lacked the makings of a husband. To be deserving of seven beautiful elven goddesses, he had to be stripped of all innocence. And so he was kicked down the infinite corridor of carnal delight. Within this corridor, every step is a leap across universes, every breath, a taste of air from a thousand different worlds. To those who dare to tread its paths, it offers glimpses of erotic lives unlived and kinky fates unwritten. But also, those already lived and fates set in stone. It is a tapestry of many existence that span the breadth of all the 'kink' that is, was, and will be. And so, Ashen journeys down the infinite corridor of carnal delight into the erotic lives of others in order to be stripped of his innocence and become a husband deserving of his beautiful wives-to-be. ******** #No NTR *WARNING!!!* *WRITTEN BY A DEGENERATE!!!* THIS BOOK WILL CONTAIN R18 SCENES, VULGAR WORLDS, SOME INSTANCES OF ABUSE AND A WHOLE LOT. IF THIS IS NOT YOUR CUP OF TEA, I STRONGLY SUGGEST YOU AVOID IT. OTHERWISE, ENJOY!!!... DISCLAIMER: COVER ISN'T MINE.

Eve Windsor had suffered the heartbreak of two miscarriages in her three years of marriage with her cheating husband- Nathan Hathorne. Her loveless marriage led her to file a divorce after 3 years but her husband refused to sign it. Instead, he told her the truth behind their marriage that only shattered her heart. So, Eve decided to take on a solo trip to her hometown, not knowing a dark gaze was following her all along. Vincent Marotti. Heir to the notorious Marotti Empire, Vincent is a man trained to thrive in a world of darkness and deceit. What happens when her supposed solo trip turns into a sexiest, steamiest one night stand with him and she later discovers being pregnant with his child? As her heart begins to open once again, she faces the most difficult choice: to stay trapped in the gilded cage of her broken marriage, or risk everything for a future with Vincent—knowing full well that she could lose more than just her heart. In a world teeming with high-stakes power, betrayal, and deception, the most dangerous game is falling in love with the wrong man. But what if the wrong man feels like the only one who’s ever been right?

"Die Menschheit war schon immer von ihrer Neugier getrieben. Egal ob an Land, zu Wasser oder in der Luft. Wir fanden immer einen Weg, nach Neuem zu suchen. Allerdings gibt es Dinge, die man nicht anrühren sollte. Mächte und Wissen, für die wir noch nicht bereit waren. Und ohne dass wir die Folgen kannten, forschten wir weiter. Immer tiefer, weiter - in alle Himmelsrichtungen. Und dann passierte es. Wir hatten SIE auf uns Aufmerksam gemacht. Wer SIE waren, wissen wir nicht. Was wir bald kennenlernen sollten, waren die Folgen. " "Herz Der Helden" - Eine Gilde welche es sich zur Aufgabe gemacht hat die Kräfte vieler zu vereinen und gemeinsam für das Wohl der Überlebenden zu kämpfen. Begleite ihre Abenteuer in dieser Geschichte.

For years, Norman Carter has been content to toil in relative obscurity as a diligent office assistant, his life a carefully structured routine. But all that changes the day he crosses paths with Simon Heath, the charismatic president of his company. At first, Simon's unexpected kindness and attention seem like a blessing. The lavish gifts, the extra attention from a superior - Norman tells himself he's imagining the subtle undercurrents, that he's simply unused to such generosity from a superior. Yet as Simon's presence in Norman's life grows, so too does the younger man's creeping unease. The way the younger man seems to anticipate his every need, the unsettling intensity that sometimes flickers in his gaze - it all sets off alarm bells that Norman struggles to silence. Trapped between his growing dread and Simon's unrelenting kindness, Norman finds himself questioning everything. Are his suspicions justified, or is he simply misreading harmless actions through the warped lens of his own insecurities? As Norman is drawn deeper into Simon's gilded world, the line between reality and imagination begins to blur. What truly is the machinations of Simon, and what isn't? The more he tries to uncover the truth, the more he finds himself ensnared in a web of his own making. Will Norman find the courage to confront his fears, or will he fall victim to the danger that may be hiding in plain sight?" Trigger Warnings: Themes of obsession, stalking, and psychological manipulation Descriptions of unease, paranoia, and feelings of being trapped/unsafe Imbalance of power dynamics in a workplace/professional relationship Subtle emotional/psychological abuse and gaslighting Alcohol use References to financial insecurity and personal loss Stalker to Lover trope This story explores complex themes of trust, power, and the blurred lines between perception and reality. Readers sensitive to narratives involving stalking behaviors, coercive control, or the exploitation of vulnerabilities may find some scenes unsettling or triggering. Discretion is advised.

Trapped by a generations-old marriage alliance, Princess Yetsune yearns to break free from her gilded cage. Her dream of freedom turns into a nightmare when she makes the reckless decision to embark on an escapade to the kingdom she is betrothed to and falls into a tangled web of forbidden love, political deceit and betrayal. Disguised as a commoner, a chance encounter with Callan, the Empress’s brother brings about a love at first sight that soon turns into a passionate romance. Clinging onto Callan, Yetsune decides to go against her destiny and escape the marriage alliance. But when deceit and betrayal entangles her with the Imperial Princes, she becomes a pawn in a dangerous game of power and influence. With her identity exposed too soon and factions vying for her hand and the power it brings, Yetsune's plan spins out of control. Though her heart belongs to Callan, Yetsune is forced into a marriage of convenience with the Third Prince. Their marriage as well as the military power the Third Prince yields spins her into a web of schemes to obtain the throne. Yetsune must navigate a treacherous path in a court swarming with deceit, betrayals, obsession and romance. Can she reunite with her first love or will she embrace this dangerous marriage with the Third Prince? I will be updating every day so please add to your library for steady updates. The cover is not mine but edited by me.

Morana Yin was a once legend. A ruthless assassin, a figure shrouded in myth and legend until she was betrayed by the person she trusted the most, leading to her gruesome death. But fate has other plans, granting her a second chance in the body of Vesna Xiao, the illegitimate daughter of the Xiao familia. Trapped in a life that bears no resemblance to her own, she must confront the ghosts that haunt her past and the demons that lurk in her present. In a world of gilded cages and veiled threats, where every smile hides a dagger, every friend a hidden foe, her new face becomes her mask, the youthful innocence becomes her shield hiding the soul of a hardened killer hungering for vengeance. --------- Ziyan Luo was a rising star, a brilliant businessman, and an heir to the capital's most influential family until one accident that left him blind during the day and haunted by nightmares at night, leading him to retreat from the world. But when fate throws Ziyan into Vesna's path, spark ignites in the shadows. Vesna becomes the first flicker of desire in Ziyan's isolated world. He wants her and makes no secret of it. Avoiding him isn't an option he offers and he's determined to prove to her she's worth every ounce of effort he's going to put into winning her heart

Evelyn Clarke is living in a gilded cage. As the daughter of a wealthy businessman, she has never experienced life like ordinary people-and it's not all it's cracked up to be. When her old-fashioned father arranges her marriage to the cold and brooding Kaleb Blackwell, Evelyn's life spins further out of her control. But then Kaleb offers her a deal for a price she can't refuse: her freedom. Except, everything is not as simple as she thought. Will Evelyn learn to fight for her way, or never escape the cruel clutch of patriarchy that has shaped her life? *** I do not own the cover image, sourced from Pinterest.

Angel thought the world would be hers to explore when she turned twenty. She can finally be free from the gilded cage her overprotective father built for her. But she was mistaken! Her 20th birthday marked the day she lost everything, including the freedom she so desperately craved. It was the day she fell into the hands of her father's enemy, to atone for his sins. Leoric has meticulously planned his revenge for many years. When that day came, he thought he had everything under control. The man who killed his father was behind bars, and the empire he painstakingly built fell into his hands ... including his only daughter. He planned to force his new bride to entertain his friends on their wedding night. That should force her to a status lower than an escort, which should humiliate her and shame her father. That should usher her into hell. His perfect plan of revenge was ruined by a mysterious mishap. They found themselves stranded in a desert in an unfamiliar world after their yacht was sucked into a vortex. Later, they discovered that they were in a parallel universe ruled by dark forces. The only way to return is to offer a tribute to the country's supreme leader—a virgin bride! Where would they get a virgin? Wait, isn't Angel a virgin? As Leoric and his companions traveled across the treacherous landscapes of the enigmatic Astralis, he found himself falling for his wife, who seemed to have transformed after falling into the sea on their wedding night. On a starry night on top of the peak of Mount Anabu, Leoric gazed tenderly at his wife, who looked ethereal, radiated a mystical aura, and whispered... "To hell with the supreme leader and going back. You can only be mine! Let us rule Astralis!"

When sassy, street-smart Amber from Chicago's roughest neighborhood finds herself transmigrated into Song Yanyan's curvy form, she's in for a rude awakening. Trapped in the gilded cage of Wuhan's snobby elite society, Amber must quickly adapt her gangster wit and tough spirit to this new, foreign world. However, Amber is no wilting flower. With her brave hood mentality and sharp tongue, she turns Master Wu's mission upside down. As she unravels the dark secrets behind her new identity, Amber goes toe-to-toe with the arrogant young master, their flames of rivalry soon sparking an unexpected passion. In this world of decadence and deceit, Amber must fight to replace Song Yanyan's meek persona with her bold, unapologetic flair. From intense clashes to wild romantic entanglements, she'll deliver scorching face-slaps to any who dare underestimate the transmigrated hood princess. Brimming with drama, action, laughter, and jaw-dropping revelations, one thing is certain - Master Wu's wife is no shrinking violet. Can this fish-out-of-water hood princess rise as the elite world's feistiest new queen?

Gwendolyn Breckenridge, a precious daughter of noble family from Brovodian Kingdom, wakes up to a terrifying dream come true. Injured and trapped in a carriage, she's carted away to a strange land. The awful truth hits her: she's being sold as a slave. Betrayed by both her lover and trusted handmaiden, with her parents missing in the midst of the chaos engulfing her family, she is plunged into despair. Stripped of her wealth and status, she is left to deal with a harsh reality where her once-gilded life is now in tatters. After a series of torments, she landed in a shadowland called Sotreapis Kingdom – a place she's never even heard of. One terrifying fact becomes clear: in the shadow Kingdom of Sotreapis, a cruel king named Malgarius captures beautiful women only to kill them. But he finds himself inexplicably drawn to Gwendolyn's spirit and resilience despite their different realm. Despite the danger, a forbidden attraction blossoms between them. Now, she is trapped in this deadly game, surrounded by danger and unsure of who to trust – a ruthless king captivated by her, a court teeming with suspicion, and the ever-present threat of those who wish to silence her. Can she use this unexpected turn of events to not only clear her name and find her family, but perhaps even rewrite the deadly fate awaiting her in Sotreapis? Can Gwendolyn overcome the betrayal that shattered her life? And most importantly, can she survive the clutches of a murderous king in a foreign land or fell deeper into his honey trap? *** [Disclaimer: This book is a mature content as it has some intimate and passionate scenes that explore the romantic relationships between characters. Even though these scenes are significant to the story and the characters, it is important to note that they are shown in a tasteful way and are not meant to be detailed or unnecessary. This book is mostly about the mental journeys of the characters and the problems they have to deal with. Those who might be sensitive to this kind of material should read it with care, and it is best for mature readers] This story is purely a work of fiction and is the product of the author's imagination. Some names, characters, places, and incidents are the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual events, locales, or persons, living or dead, is coincidental. Your supports in power stones, gifts and golden tickets as well as some reviews are highly appreciated. Thank you. @Cover design and all character images by the author with AI generated image. Find me in IG @Karensiarose Discord @Karensia

The Lockwood mansion was a gilded cage. Marble floors and crystal chandeliers couldn’t mask the suffocating weight of expectations. Zane sat in his dark room, the quiet hum of his guitar the only sound in the vast emptiness. He was born into a life of privilege, destined for medical school or a corporate throne. But that world felt cold and hollow. His heart beat to a different rhythm—the pulse of a guitar, the rush of a stage, the freedom of music. Yet in this family, music was nothing more than a childish hobby, a distraction from the "real future" they had planned for him. Every note he played felt like rebellion, but the walls around him only closed in tighter. Soon, he would have to choose: the life they wanted for him, or the life he dreamed of. But in the Lockwoods household, dreams were meant to be sacrificed.

|Cover image generated by me!| |Shout-out to Forteller for this amazing book cover!| [ WARNING: MATURE CONTENT, GORE] Bianca has spent her life trapped. Born into a wealthy family, she was treated more like an object than a daughter by her father. When she finally became aware of his betrayal, a fire ignited within her. Revenge became her sole purpose. For years, Bianca honed her skills, learning everything she could about the world beyond her gilded cage and cultivated a persona of elegant indifference. Finally, she felt prepared to strike. Her target: The Selvaggio Mafia family. More specifically, Achille Selvaggio, the ruthless underboss known as "The Beast in human flesh." Achille, a man as feared as he is respected, holds the key to Bianca's revenge. But getting close to him will be a dangerous gamble. Bianca hatches a daring plan. She will make Achille an offer he can't refuse - a proposal so shocking, so audacious, that it will force him to confront his own demons. A proposal that will change their lives forever.

In a world where crowns weigh heavy and alliances are forged in gilded cages, two royals dare to play a dangerous game of deception. Princess Lyra of Aurell never aspired to the throne, but with her kingdom on the brink of invasion, she dons the identity of her cousin, Crown Princess Aria. Her mission: infiltrate the court of Tarragon as a potential concubine and save her people from war. King Caiden of Tarragon has worn the crown since boyhood, each year etching lines of distrust into his heart. Weary of political schemes and fearing for his life, he sheds his royal robes to masquerade as his own bodyguard during the concubine selection. As "Aria" and "Roran," Lyra and Caiden find in each other an unexpected confidant, their growing bond built on half-truths and shared secrets. But as they unravel a sinister plot within Tarragon's court, the masks they wear become both a shield and a burden. When an assassination attempt forces them to reveal their true identities, betrayal cuts deep. Trust lies shattered between them, yet the fragile alliance between their kingdoms hangs in the balance. As enemies circle and threats loom from within and without, Lyra and Caiden must decide: can they forge a future together, or will the wounds of deception destroy both their kingdoms and their hearts? "Masks of the Heart" is a sweeping tale of forbidden love, political intrigue, and the courage to reveal one's true self. In a world where every smile hides a secret, Lyra and Caiden must learn that the greatest power lies not in the face they present to the world, but in the truth they share with each other.

Kai Arashi, the carefree heir to a vast fortune, is haunted by recurring nightmares of his demise at the hands of a destined hero. As he delves into his family's history, he uncovers a chilling prophecy: the Arashi bloodline is cursed to spawn villains, forever defeated by the Child of Destiny. Enter Elara, a captivating woman who ignites a spark within Kai. But a terrifying suspicion clouds his mind - could Elara be his destined foe? As he unlocks the hidden power within himself, he must confront his dark past and fight to rewrite his fate. Together, Kai and Elara defy the prophecy, battling a hidden enemy who seeks to control their destinies. Their fight for justice transcends the shackles of fate, shaping a new world where heroes and villains are not bound by predestination.

ln the sprawling halls of the Royce mansion , " Echoes of Destiny" unfolds the sweeping tale of Annika and Alex whose love defies the boundaries of time and space . As the sun rises over the majestic estate, a mysterious letter arrives, bearing an invitation from the revered Royce Family . This simple missive sets in motion a chain of events that will intertwine the fates of Annika and Alex in ways they never imagined. Admist the splandor of the dinning room the announcement of the invitation sparks a symphony of emotions, from jubilation to apprehension . As the Roy Family prepares for their visit , secrets long buried begin to surface , casting shadows of doubt and uncertainty over the imprending union. Yet, amidst the turmoil , a love that spans galaxies emerges, binding Annika and Alex together in an unbreakable bond . Their journey takes them from the gilded halls of the mansion to the far reaches of the universe , where destiny waits to reveal its ultimate truth. Through tearful goodbyes and whispered promises , " Echoes of Destiny " explores the timeless themes of Love , sacrifice and the indomitable power of the human heart . As Annika and Alex embark on their journey, they will discover that true love knows no bounds and that even the vast expanse of the universe is no match for the power of a love that conquer all.

In the bustling city of Shinsei, where wealth and privilege reign supreme, Yoru Arai sat atop a skyscraper, his gaze drifting over the opulent skyline. "This is so dull," he murmured to himself before reluctantly heading towards his father's imposing office. "Everything here has grown tiresome. I need a break from this gilded cage. I want to see how the other peasants live," Yoru declared, meeting his father's furious gaze head-on.

In the vibrant marketplace of Gilded Crossing, a captivating tale circulates, igniting intrigue and curiosity among the residents. Although their primary objective is the trade, an unexpected lead prompts them to consider a detour in their plans. After a series of encounters, they find themselves poised on the brink of a new chapter in their journey.

In every story, there is a male lead, a female lead and a second male lead. But what about the second female lead? Be it the unloved queen of a cold and distant king, the plain bodyguard of the forgotten prince, the evil stepsister of the well-loved genius, the servant who died protecting her lady or the defeated villainess. No one cares about their stories. This is the playbook of all forgotten second female leads. Volume IV: The Villainess who was defeated by the Gods (completed) 'In every story, there is a villain who has been defeated. What happens to the defeated villain?' After Lorelei's plot to overthrow the gods failed, she was stripped of her power and voice. She became a mermaid bound to a lake, with her enemy (the god) keeping guard of her. This is a story between a defeated villainess and her enemy. Volume III: The evil stepsister who has lived through FIVE lives (completed) 'Please let me rest in peace!' Odette was once an heiress who had it all, be it money, status or fiance. When her perfect stepsister appeared, she realized she was just a villain in this story. Odette, being the evil stepsister, was of course killed off halfway through the story. When she opened her eyes again she was reborn, but no matter what she did, she died in the end. Having experienced burning on a stake, the guillotine, hanging and stabbing to death, all she wanted now was to die normally after a normal life. Volume II: Body guard of a forgotten prince (completed) "You're just my tool. Know your place." It's her duty to follow her master's command. Even at the risk of injuring herself or losing her mind. It's his right to use her cold-heartedly. Even discarding her when she had become useless. She was a bird trapped inside a gilded cage, slowly losing her mind in the process. Volume I: Rebirth of the unloved, forgotten Queen (completed) "Let's break off our engagement. I don't want to be Queen anymore. You don't like me anyway." At twenty, Liana died as she watched her country burned to ashes. When she opened her eyes, she was sixteen again. The first thing she planned to do was breaking off her engagement with Prince Sebastian. This is her story as a reborn queen. -------------- A series of inter-related second female leads' stories set in a fantasy historical world. Readers can choose volumes they like to start with!

In the heart of a sprawling city, where opulence and power were intertwined, two heirs found their lives thrust into an unexpected collision. Wang Li, the epitome of grace and nobility, was the heir to the illustrious Wang family. Raised with the weight of responsibility on his shoulders, he was groomed to be the future leader, his demeanor as polished as the finest jade. His every move was calculated, his every word measured, a testament to the rigorous upbringing he had received. Chen Yiwen, on the other hand, lived a life of indulgence as the sole heiress of the Chen family. From a tender age, her whims were catered to, and her desires fulfilled with the snap of her fingers. Beauty and charm were her allies, and she wielded them effortlessly, unaware of the world beyond the gilded cage she called home. Fate, however, had other plans for them. A twist of events led Wang Li and Chen Yiwen to a shared predicament - a situation neither of them had ever imagined. Kidnapped and thrust into an unfamiliar world, stripped of their titles and privilege, they found themselves equalized by the harsh reality of captivity. **** "POW", a gunshot was fired from behind her. She immediately stopped in her tracks. Slowly turning around, she faced the man that fired the shot. " Chen Yiwen, how foolish are you? Didn't I tell you I own you. We'll live in this hell together. You can't escape from me."

As the Kingdom of Agion's power and influence grows its leader, King Winston, becomes the target of another of the world's powers; the church. Now he, Queen Lillian, and Sir knight Vincent and their allies race to find a way to protect the crown and the kingdom's people as the institution of the church and its leader seeks to reestablish dominance. Only for a more darker side to be discovered underneath the organization's gilded facade that places them in the middle of a struggle between faith and religion. Meanwhile, consequences and affects from decisions threaten to rip apart the very threads of friendship that the kingdom has come to stand on.

AlAlex's upbringing was anything but ordinary as he was a human. Raised by an alien mechanic, he found himself trapped in a life of routine and monotony, feeling as if he were confined within a gilded cage. Hiding his identity and race had become second nature to him. It was the very first thing he was taught. What happened to his race? Why he had to hide himself? Just a whisper could lead to a planetary conflict and inspection but why was that? In a galaxy filled to the brim with sentient beings whom he couldn't relate to, Alex felt lonely. The constant longing to escape and unearth his true origins consumed him, especially when he stumbled upon an ancient codex that hinted at the existence of human civilization. This discovery led him to a peculiar robotic cat and a set of coordinates pointing toward Eden Prime, a place believed to be the cradle of humanity. Fueled by curiosity and the freedom to chart the stars, Alex ventures to the cosmos in search of answers trying to get answers to secrets of his past and the fate of his long-lost civilization. His quest for answers has just begun, with the vast galaxy waiting to be explored. ------------ weekly update. Every chapter might be 3k words to 6k. available on royal road, web novel, and scribble-hub. Check out my other stories if you find this interesting

Onlookers gasped in horror at the red streaks of blood etched into the pavement, and the tangle of limbs, torso, and head. What was once the infamous Raging Demon, the legendary speedrunner of all game genres, lie dead in the road. In a rare stroke of heroism, he pushed a young girl out of the way of an oncoming bus that lost control of its brakes. The speedrunner's last moments were agony; his last thoughts on the games he hadn't a record in, and the worthless life he lived in the shadows of his talented siblings. Just when he believed his last chance at redeeming himself was lost... "Welcome to the gates of Heaven, Johnathan Rivers... Before I can allow you to pass through the Gates of Heaven, there are two tasks you must undertake." A faceless goddess materializes before Johnny on a throne of gold. Lesser gems laid at the foot of the throne, while those of diamond, ruby, emerald, and sapphire adorned the right and left arms. Behind this magnificent seat and the personage perched thereon were the towering gates of the afterlife, shut tight. Their gilded bars stretched endlessly into an azure sky sparkled with the silver dots of stars, the sides of which were obscured by the rippling gold surface of the Barrier of the Beyond. What could these two tasks be?

"You're just my tool. Know your place." Arina, a member of Ivory Manor, it's her duty to follow her master's command. Even at the risk of injuring herself or losing her mind. She was a bird trapped inside a gilded cage, slowly losing her mind in the process. Melancholic Sword Apprentice (hidden shape-shifter) × Cunning Cold-hearted Master of Ivory Manor Hi everyone! I'm back to updating this story, but on another account :D If you're interested in what's going on next, do check out 'Second Female Leads' Playbook' under Butterfly_effect! Thank you!