Shawn Mendes

“Shit, why this guy!?” Of all the unique characters he could’ve transmigrated as, it had to be the bastard instructor. Vanitas Astrea. A third-rate middle game boss, who was dismissed from the University after severe allegations, losing his teaching profession and ultimately, exiled from the Empire. “.....How did I even get here!?” Vanitas must now circumvent his way around this new world, confront his past, mend broken relationships, and prevent looming tragedies that would lead to his demise. —————————————— More illustrations in the server. Discord: https://discord.gg/zukKB2ppDp

Reich never expected to wake up in the body of a dead beggar, let alone one who perished in the crossfire of two legendary mages. When he opens his eyes, the world is still burning around him—yet his wounds vanish, his shattered bones mend, and a single glowing notification appears before him: [Blessing Activated: Invulnerability – 31 Days Remaining] For one month, Reich cannot die. He can be burned, crushed, torn apart—he will always heal. Yet pain remains. Every wound, every death that should have been final, lingers in his body’s memory. And when the countdown reaches zero, the true test will begin.

After losing everything, Daron Lamb is consumed by grief and guilt, until he's recruited by the Special Magic Force, an elite unit protecting the balance between magical and non-magical worlds. Together, they uncover a secret organization determined to free the God of Chaos, a force sealed away to protect humanity. As Daron investigates, he uncovers a chilling link between the group and his tragic past. Driven by revenge, he joins forces with his new allies to stop them. But as the truth behind the organization’s motives begins to surface, Daron is forced to confront a disturbing possibility: freeing the God of Chaos, though orchestrated by his enemies, might not bring the destruction he's been led to believe. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Daron's gaze drifted downward to his chest. Below, the stark contrast of a faint blue light against his white skin caught his eye—a soft glow emanating from his own chest. It softly pulsed, a gentle luminescence that ebbed and flowed with the rhythm of his own heartbeat. Baffled, he just sat there for a few moments, observing. As his fingers touched the source of light, he was surprised to find that everything felt normal, as if it had always been this way. It was like nothing had changed at all. Daron's eyes widened in disbelief when he noticed a strange black liquid seeping into the wounds on his chest—a substance like ink, flowing from within him. It moved with purpose, filling the gaps left by the fat butcher and stanching the flow of blood that had painted his skin red. "By the gods," he gasped, the sight both unsettling and miraculous. The black liquid quickly solidified, forming scars as black as the night sky. His eyes remained fixed on the eerie scene, his breath steadying to a normal rhythm. He was a magician now… it felt strange. He didn't feel particularly different. Sure, a mysterious substance had just mended his broken skin, but other than that, he didn't feel like he could do anything… new, anything special. He stretched out his hand, trying to summon a sharp wind to cut down his shackles. Nothing happened. Next, a flame, to burn down his cell. Nothing happened. “Figures,” he said to himself. “Why would it be easy?” ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ For news and feedback, feel free to join the Vessel of Shadows Discord: https://discord.gg/dmCYCKNwx7

"A Tale That Cannot Be Told" weaves a mesmerizing fantasy filled with dragons, humans, and an extraordinary bond that bridges their realms. Once humans are cursed to exist as dragons, these majestic creatures wander the earth alongside people, grappling with their stony, dormant hearts. Among them is Ioulos, a dragon caught in a struggle between accepting his true nature and longing for the fleeting warmth of a living heart. In a nearby kingdom, Princess Genoa possesses a magical gift that soothes conflicts and promotes harmony, yet she feels an unsettling restlessness despite the love that surrounds her. One fateful day, after slipping away from her overly protective father, she crosses paths with Ioulos, igniting an unexpected connection. Although Ioulos initially attempts to maintain his distance, their brief encounter leaves a lasting impression on both. As tensions escalate among the dragons, particularly between Ioulos and the fiery Nahum, the princess finds herself torn between two worlds. Now, she must navigate the repercussions of her secret rendezvous with Ioulos while uncovering the deeper mysteries behind the dragons’ curse and their stony hearts. Princess Genoa sets off on a secret adventure to meet the dragons, fueled by her curiosity and an invitation from Ioulos, a young dragon she encountered at Uilliam's castle. After receiving an enigmatic letter with puzzling directions, she rides to Ioulos's castle, excited to see him again. When she arrives, Ioulos greets her warmly and has prepared a delightful feast in her honor. As they enjoy their meal, Genoa explains her visit, expressing her desire to learn more about him and resolve any past misunderstandings. Ioulos shares his worries about how humans view dragons and confesses his wish to mend things after the incident involving Nahum. Despite their differences, they start to build a foundation of mutual respect. Ioulos then offers to give her a tour of his dragon-themed castle, and together they explore, strengthening their connection while delving into the intricacies of their worlds. This meeting marks the start of an unexpected friendship as they work through misunderstandings, embrace hospitality, and share their curiosity. It’s a tale in which the lines between protagonist and antagonist blur, revealing the hidden depths of their true selves.

Thrown back into the fragile body of her 15 year old self after a near death experience, Nnenna wakes up in a cold and loveless household, an adopted child meant only to keep the true child company. Rejected, ignored, and treated like a shadow, she had once quietly accepted her fate. But this time, things are different. Armed with a mysterious Love System, Nnenna gains the power to turn hate into love, one mission at a time all over the world. From mending broken friendships to healing hearts torn by betrayal, she earns "Good Points" that slowly transform the world around her. Yet, as her actions ripple outward, so do the echoes of her past life. Forgotten secrets resurface, her true origins, her parents' fates, and the shocking truth about those she left behind. Along her journey, two figures emerge from the haze of her past and present, a soul she thought she had lost forever and another who had been by her side all along. Both bring the promise of love, but will either of them earn her heart when she finally learns to love herself? With every mission, Nnenna discovers that love is a powerful force, not just for others but for the girl she’s becoming. But what happens when the cost of love threatens the second chance she’s fought so hard to build?

The novel centers around two protagonists, Anne and Ella. Ella is on a journey to embark the mysteries of Anne's life who mended the tarted threads of Ella while descovering her own dream and helping a soul of starlight fulfill her last graceful wish, like a painter of dreams.

Elena thought she had it all when she married Rivaan, the man she loved so fiercely. But after eight years of a cold and distant marriage, she’s ready to leave him behind. Rivaan, once a mere employee, is now richer than her family and ex-fiancé, yet he hides his true feelings deep inside. As Elena struggles to find her own happiness, can she uncover the love Rivaan has kept hidden all these years? With three children and a fourth on the way, their perfect family masks a world of unspoken emotions and secrets. Join Elena on her journey of self-discovery, love, and the fight to mend a broken heart in "My husband's hidden Love." Will they find a way back to each other, or is it too late?

In the quiet corners of a bustling town, where stories often go untold, Wafula worked with grease-stained hands and a mind like no other. A blue-collar worker with a gift shrouded in mystery, Wafula had an ability he called “intrusive thoughts” a peculiar, almost supernatural insight that allowed him to see the world differently. To him, every broken machine, every unsolved problem, whispered its secrets, waiting to be understood. But Wafula’s gift wasn’t just limited to fixing gadgets and engines. People spoke in hushed tones about how he could mend more than just metal; they said he could fix lives. Some even believed he had the power to heal broken hearts. Yet, this extraordinary ability came at a cost. With every challenge he faced financial struggles, societal expectations, and personal loss Wafula grew stronger, rising from humble beginnings to become a figure larger than life. This is the story of a man who defied the odds, solving problems no one else dared to touch, and in the process, finding pieces of himself. Through his journey, you’ll uncover not only how he mastered the art of fixing but also how he transformed the lives of those who crossed his path. Dive into 'Wafula the Fixer' and discover a tale of resilience, mystery, and the extraordinary power of seeing the world through a different lens.

****CONTESTANT IN THE 2025 WSA**** «Sometimes, home isn't a place - it's a person. » Yoon Sana has mastered the art of running – from people, from pain and even from herself. Park Ji-Hoon has learned to keep his heart locked away, haunted by the scars of his past, he believes love is a cruel force that only brings ruin. When fate intertwines their lives beneath the city lights of Seoul, they discover in each other a sanctuary they didn’t know they needed. But love is more than just a fleeting escape – it’s a test of courage, patience, and the willingness to confront wounds that never bled but cut the deepest. As their bond grows, Sana and Ji-Hoon must learn to forgive, to trust, and to let go of the fears that chain them to the past. Together, they will navigate the fragile path of healing, discovering that love, when nurtured with understanding, can become a place to call home. ‘A Love to Call Home’ is a tender exploration of love’s power to mend what’s broken and illuminate what’s been lost. ***THE BOOK COVER IS MINE, ALL RIGHT RESERVED!***

--- Synopsis Angela Vaughn had everything a girl could dream of—an influential family, wealth, beauty, and a prestigious engagement to Bradley Sterling, the heir of a powerful business empire. But in one cruel stroke, the life she had meticulously built crumbled around her. Betrayed by the people she trusted most—her fiancé, her step-sister Lilian, and even her own family—Angela was cast aside like a forgotten memory. Desperate to mend her broken heart, Angela sets out on a path of rediscovery and vengeance. With the Christmas season looming as a backdrop to her turmoil, she finds herself planning the ultimate payback against those who sought to destroy her. But Angela’s journey takes a sharp twist when she crosses paths with Enzo Lorenzo—the enigmatic and feared mafia heir. Known for his cold, calculating mind and dangerous aura, Enzo is a man used to controlling every situation. But Angela’s fiery rebellion sparks an interest he can’t ignore, even as she unwittingly threatens to upend his carefully laid plans. In a world filled with lies, ambition, and hidden agendas, every character has their role to play: Lilian, the conniving step-sister who basks in Angela’s downfall; Brad, the traitorous fiancé now caught in his own web of deceit; Jonas, an FBI agent, a sharp eyed girl, who struggles to understand his sibling’s growing interest in Angela; and the Vaughn family, whose hypocritical attempts to restore their reputation add layers of tension. Amidst the glittering holiday season, Angela’s path crosses with old friends, bitter enemies, and unlikely allies as she claws her way back to the top. But in a game where everyone has something to lose, will her vengeance lead to redemption—or destruction? "Betrayed love" is a tale of betrayal, passion, and empowerment, weaving together love, danger, and the unyielding resolve of a woman who refuses to be broken.

Adan Emika, a 34-year-old leading a stable and comfortable life, is thrown into chaos after receiving a cryptic phone call offering him a chance to "mend his dark past." Initially dismissing it as a scam, Adnan soon finds his world unraveling—his career, relationships, and sense of control spiraling into disarray. Desperate and out of options, he reluctantly agrees to the mysterious deal, plunging himself into a journey to confront the buried secrets he thought were long behind him. As the lines between redemption and sacrifice blur, Adnan must face the question: can he truly mend the past, or will the cost be too great? -A chance to mend the past, Adan. Wouldn’t you use it?- "Fine, yeah, sure. I’m Adan Emika, and I agree—whatever. Happy now?" And now...he can see ghost too? [System] | Eyes That Seek | You can now see beings invisible to other humans. | Bonus: Use their abilities as your own! Wow, so lucky!! ........ writting for fun and practicing

Sacred treasures are bestowed upon men, scattered all around the world and through the ages. It has such power that it can be used to protect, build, or destroy. Crown prince Evan Shawn Siegmund, at the age of 24, is now ascending the royal throne. The handsome, angelic-looking rebellious prince will be taking over the strong empire that was built by his father, William Lance Seigmund. This is the story of a prince of assassins who became a Strong Capable Ruler.

Sacred treasures are bestowed upon men, scattered all around the world and through the ages. It has such power that it can be used to protect, build, or destroy. Crown prince Evan Shawn Siegmund, at the age of 24, is now ascending the royal throne. The handsome, angelic-looking rebellious prince will be taking over the strong empire that was built by his father, William Lance Seigmund. This is the story of a prince of assassins who became a Strong Capable Ruler.

Neva and Rhett, the two youths have their heart strings attached in love. Interfering their peaceful life circumstances unfolds scattering blades in their romance. Ishmael, with a heart of spikes, he looks to mend the wound, searching and failing for his Neva separated from him. Rays of love and joy filtering through clouds of horror in the world, Neva before him once more. The twisted fate entangling them, reveals the game of sphere as misery burns their soul. Concealed life beyond turning pages—one after another. The tale gathers: sin and virtue, tragedy and fortune, strength and weakness, destruction and creation, love and hate. Illusion is where we live; in the Garden of Eden before the fall of man. Illusive is serenity; an evermore sanguine of love. Visionary of Eden in the new earth; sows hope deep in the soul. Delusory pleasure of the world; shall bring us burns in the ocean of fire. Illusive Eden is peace. Illusive Eden is tragedy. The fall of the man, even now bleeding red. The whisper whirls with the dawn of a man. He, who pretends to be the Hero. (The girl who promised to always be together, Forbids him to ever appear, Refusing to recognise him, She disregards all he ever had. Vowing to protect her, He's the terrifying truth she hopes rules lie. Tripping and ripping her, He's the living tragedy looming in on her life. He once was her Elayne, now her hiraeth; He's the villain pretending to be a Hero.)

He fell—or perhaps, he awakened, A soul cast adrift on frostbound tides. He wandered, a seeker, a shadow reborn, Through the shattered dreams of a cruel world's guise. Encounters etched in the tapestry of fate, Adventures carved in peril's stone. The cries of anguish, a symphony of ruin, Tore the veil of innocence he'd once known. With power vast, he could mend the broken, A savior's flame in the darkest night. Yet never did he dream, in all his might, That his own soul longed for the light. In the ruins of hope, he stands unyielding, A titan of strength, a heart concealed. For in saving others, he begins to learn— Even the savior must one day be healed.

Hazel one of the most beautiful creature on earth, yet heart broken. She's a fresher ready for new beginnings and time to mend her broken heart collided with a hybrid (half werewolf and vampire), after few more collision fell in love with someone who is different from her world. What will their story be like after she finds out about his identity? Stay tuned to find out

The year is 5244, and humanity has been on pause. Despite centuries of technological advancements, society has stagnated, glued to their phones. Knowledge, ambition, and human connection have crumbled. SOB442 a 12 year old.Is different. A self-proclaimed genius in a sea of mindless phone addicts, he feels like the last person alive who craves something more—knowledge, purpose, meaning. In a world where even his family barely looks up from their devices, SOB442’s only friend is TFR100, a friend so absorbed in tech he barely knows how to speak.But everything changes the day they stumble upon a mysterious object in TFR’s basement: a “slab” unlike anything they’ve ever seen. Made of leather and filled with strange, thin sheets—paper—it carries a title: The Adventures of Shawn and Tucker. To SOB442, it’s not just a curiosity; it’s a relic from a forgotten era, a key to uncovering humanity’s lost history. Determined to uncover the truth behind the slab, SOB442 embarks on a quest to learn what the book holds and why it was buried in a world that’s forgotten how to read. Along the way, he’ll face resistance from a society that sees no value in the past, a government that thrives on ignorance, and his own doubts about whether one kid can reignite the spark of human curiosity. In a world where everyone is online, can one boy reconnect humanity to the stories that made it human?

"Norvin Veldman, a talented cosplay designer with a photographic memory, unwittingly stumbles upon a mysterious entity born from the Akashic Record. This ancient being, drawn to Norvin, bonds with him and transforms him into a 'Cosmic Curator'. As the entity awakens Norvin's latent psychic powers, his latest cosplay project, the 'Hero Holodex' Smartwatch, becomes a reality. With this newfound technology, Norvin can channel his energies to become many of his childhood heroes! The sub-body of the Record charges Norvin with an epic task: to restore its original form, which has been shattered into five parts, each representing one of the five super classes that once thrived in the universe: Metas, Psychics, Super Armorers, Magicians, and Super Pugilists. With the help of his friends Edward and Huey, Norvin sets out to unravel the mystery of the other Curators and why the boundaries between the five universes are beginning to collapse. As Norvin embarks on his quest to unite the fragmented universe, he must navigate treacherous landscapes, battle formidable foes, and confront his own destiny as a hero. Will he be able to mend the tears in reality and become the savior of the multiverse?"

[DISCONTINUED, TO BE REPUBLISHED] After a devastating meteor strike shatters Brooklyn, humanity is struggling to rebuild. The meteor’s deadly gases mutate the population, granting extraordinary powers to a select few—but at a terrible cost. To control and study these mutants, the Vital Organization for Research on Transformations and Experiments in Xenogenesis (VORTEX) establishes the VORTEX Academy, a prestigious institution designed to help mutants harness their abilities. Kira Shawn’s life takes a drastic turn when her boyfriend, Asher Prescott tests positive for the mutagen and is forcibly sent to the academy. Determined to join him, Kira risks everything by falsifying her test results to secure her own enrollment. But beneath the academy’s polished facade lies a web of dark secrets and sinister experiments. As Kira uncover the chilling truth behind VORTEX’s motives, they discover that her blood may hold the key to humanity’s survival—or its ultimate destruction. With time running out, Kira must master her newfound powers and decide whether to become the world’s last hope or its greatest threat. ______ WordWeaver42- "Love that holds on through chaos, grief, and impossible odds is the kind that stays etched in the soul. Asher’s selflessness and Kira’s unwavering devotion speak volumes about the depth of their bond. It’s the kind of love that aches, yet fills the heart with hope and resilience. This story captures the raw, imperfect, and sacrificial beauty of love, leaving tears as a testament to its impact."

When a tragic workplace accident lands ambitious engineer Josh in the hospital, his perfectly ordered world begins to unravel. Burdened by the expectations of running his father’s prestigious company, Josh hides his vulnerabilities behind a wall of pride and independence—until he meets Josie, a compassionate nurse with a kind smile and a determined spirit. Josie’s days at Beacon Health Hospital are spent mending wounds and offering hope, but her own past has left scars that refuse to heal. When fate brings Josh into her care, their connection is immediate yet complicated. Beneath their sharp banter and undeniable chemistry lies a chance for something neither of them expected: a second chance at life and love. As they navigate the challenges of recovery, career pressures, and personal demons, Josh and Josie find themselves drawn together in ways they can’t ignore. But with secrets lingering in their hearts and the weight of their separate worlds pulling them apart, they must decide if love is worth the risk. Can two wounded souls find healing in each other, or will the barriers between them prove insurmountable? **Excerpt** Josh winced as Josie gently unwrapped the bandages on his arm, revealing the angry red gash beneath. She worked carefully, her hands steady and sure, her brow furrowed in concentration. "Does it hurt much?" she asked, her voice soft but professional. He looked at her, his gaze lingering for a moment longer than he intended. "Not as much as it did yesterday. Your touch helps," he said, a small smirk playing on his lips. Josie rolled her eyes but couldn’t hide the faint smile tugging at the corners of her mouth. "Flattery doesn’t speed up healing, Mr. Josh" "Josh," he corrected. "I told you, call me Josh." She nodded, her focus returning to the wound. "Okay, Josh. But you’re still my patient, so let me do my job." The silence that followed was heavy but not uncomfortable. Josh watched her, noticing how the light caught the strands of hair that had slipped from her bun. She was efficient, focused, yet there was a warmth to her that put him at ease in a way he hadn’t expected. "You're good at this," he said suddenly. "At dressing wounds?" she asked, glancing up briefly. "At making people feel like everything’s going to be okay," he replied, his voice quieter now. Josie paused, her eyes meeting his. For a moment, the world outside the hospital room seemed to fade away. "That’s my job," she said softly, breaking the silence. "To make sure you leave here better than you came."

Here we go on a journey meeting Jason mark and Sydney crane on there journey to each other whether they would be able to stay together while mending Sydney broken and unconfident heart and when she finds out the one she loves throughly is a vampire will she leave or stay and bear the consequences of finding. love join me on this journey quest

Edgar Neal, a broken man dying after jumping off the building. However, instead of facing peace he longs, he awakens in an unfamiliar yet oddly familiar world. To his shock, he realizes he has been reborn as Zephyx, a minor villain from the game Dawn of Light, a game he had once obsessively played during his hellish times. As he comes to terms with his new reality, Edgar discovers that his soul has merged with Zephyx’s, mending the shattered pieces of the original’s existence and unlocking new potential. /This is the first time I'm writing a novel and English is not my first Language. So yes there will be mistakes but i will try to improve myself as fast as i can/ /Front page is not my own , if the creator wants me to take it off , just comment it/

Will Anna find love someday?? Will Jesse mend her broken heart?? Will they be strong enough to fight the battles coming from the third parties

Shawn Pendragon, a seventeen-year-old boy, was living an ordinary life on earth. He was a student at Jefferson High School. Just like other people, he had a low profile. He loved keeping things private, never posting on social media about what was going on in his life, and never trusting anyone, not even his own family and closest friends. That day, about one o'clock in the afternoon, Shawn and his best friend, Justin Meyer, were crossing the highway when a rushing ambulance suddenly appeared. His friend managed to survive, but he was unfortunately hit and died on the spot. That ambulance didn't have a chance to bring him to a hospital; he was brought to a morgue instead. "Where am I?" Shawn wondered when he opened his eyes and found out he was lost in the middle of nowhere. It was a place he had never been—the place where his new journey was about to begin.

On a quiet, nearly empty train, two young men collide, their eyes meeting as if by fate. To anyone else, it might seem like a fleeting encounter. But for them, it’s the unearthing of a shared history—one filled with years of innocent friendship, tender love, and eventual heartbreak. Known only as “Spring” and “Summer,” their lives were once intertwined, their bond forged through childhood and high school. But that was three years ago. At 20, both are scarred by the fallout of what was once sweet and hopeful. Now, as Spring attempts to retreat, the train doors slide shut, trapping him with Summer—the boy he once loved, who now regards him with disdain. Summer sits down, his glare sharp and unforgiving, refusing to break the silence. Spring hesitates, caught between his lingering feelings and the weight of his guilt. The train moves forward, and so does their unspoken tension. Can time and distance mend the fractures in their hearts, or are they destined to remain two seasons that could never coexist?

The main character is a 21 year old man whose life has fallen down into a spiral of events that leads him miserable. He tries to go job searching again in the busy city of Pastville, but gets hit by a car and goes unconscious. He wakes up in a dark place with a sequence of events that leads him back to his 3 year old self.

From a young age, Shay loved archery. For years he and his father have been at odds because Shay refuses to give up his love of archery to appeal to his father's whim. His mother has tried to mend their relationship to no avail. So, tired of his father ignoring him, Shay left his younger sister, Mallory's, birthday celebration to hang out with his crush, Noah. Something happened in the woods that separated him and Noah, but Shay doesn't remember anything. He wakes up on the couch of his mother's ex-best friend. Something is brewing in the Valoria kingdom and Shay believes it may turn into a full-blown war. Will he and his father be able to put their differences aside to help save the kingdom?

In the cozy haven of Sweet Indulgence, a bustling café where every dessert tells a story, I find myself at a crossroads, torn between two men who hold the power to shape my future in ways I never imagined. Tyler, a charismatic business tycoon, offers stability and strength, yet hides secrets that could unravel everything. Shawn, a compassionate doctor, awakens a passion within me, but his past carries shadows that threaten to pull us both under. As I navigate the intricate web of love, trust, and betrayal, the line between comfort and chaos blurs. With fate throwing unexpected challenges in my path, I’m forced to confront my deepest fears and unravel truths I’m not ready to face. In a tale of forbidden desires and hidden intentions, every choice I make brings me closer to a revelation that will redefine not only my heart but the very foundation of my world. Will I find the courage to follow the whispers of my heart, or will the secrets surrounding me shatter everything I’ve built?

The story follows a young man haunted by the loss of his family in a devastating accident. Burdened by loneliness and grief, he sets out on a heartfelt quest to rediscover joy and mend the emptiness within his soul.

Follows the emotional journey of Jane, a high school senior grappling with the devastating loss of her parents in a tragic car accident. Saved by a mysterious stranger who couldn't rescue her parents, Jane carries an overwhelming burden of guilt and grief. As she navigates her final year of school, Jane attempts to rebuild her life and find meaning in her presence within the lives of others. She works to mend strained relationships with family and friends, confronting the complexities of forgiveness, belonging, and self-worth. Along the way, Jane's innate curiosity and adventurous spirit lead her to uncover hidden truths about her past, herself, and the people around her. Through moments of vulnerability and strength, Jane learns to embrace life despite its imperfections. Her journey is a poignant exploration of healing, the power of connections, and the courage to move forward while honoring her pain and her parents' memory. Her journey takes an unexpected turn when she meets a new guy who becomes a quiet yet profound source of solace. His presence helps Jane confront her deepest fears, rediscover her sense of wonder, and embrace the beauty of life's processes, even in the face of grief. As Jane navigates the challenges of senior year, her newfound connection intertwines with her path of self-discovery. Together, they explore themes of healing, the fragility of life, and the strength it takes to build a future from the fragments of the past.