Strain

Suddenly, there was a knock at the door. My body stiffened as a palace guard called for me from the other side, but I ignored it. Mei, on the other hand, began pushing me away in a panic. "Cheng, let go," she said, struggling in my arms. "Can't you hear him? What if he comes in and sees us like this?" "I don't care," I replied, my lips brushing her ear. "Tell me you forgive me, that's all I need. I won't let go until you do." I knew I was taking a risk, a huge one, if we were seen like this, there would be consequences. But losing Mei would be the bigger risk, the one I couldn't take. I couldn't let her slip away. "I just need to hear you forgive me, mei. That's all I need right now." The guard knocked again, calling my name, and Mei struggled harder. "Cheng, please," she said, her voice cracking under the strain. But I didn't budge. Finally she muttered, "Fine. I forgive you." "I forgive you, you crazy jerk." "You really mean that?" I asked, my voice barely audible. She nodded, exasperated, and only then did I release her. Just as I did, the door swung open, and I barely had time to step back before the palace guard entered, the guard rushed in, his face pale with worry. It was a close call. too close, but I didn't care. Mei flinched at the intrusion, but quickly composed herself, stepping away from me to a more respectable distance. The guard, wide-eyed and clearly flustered, fell to his knees in a bow. "My deepest apologies, Your Highness. I called for you several times but received no reply. I entered out of concern, fearing the worst." I glanced at Mei, but she wouldn't meet my eyes. She simply gave the guard one last look and walked out, leaving the room without a word. I let out a long, exhausted sigh, running a hand through my hair, still reeling from everything that had just happened. Turning back to the guard, I motioned for him to stand. "Get up" "And next time, don't enter my room without permission." In a fantastical world inspired by imperial China, the story follows Crown Prince Cheng, who faces a pretty intense struggle from birth; cursed with a chaotic spirit that strikes him at the worst times leaving him vulnerable and casting doubt on his ability to one day rule. As the Emperor ages, the whispers in the court grow louder, can Cheng really take the throne? His only true ally is Meiying, a young woman who's spent years secretly training to become a martial arts master. But when she finally returns home, she's met with devastation- her home destroyed and her family gone. Author’s Note This story is a work of fiction, entirely created from my imagination. Any resemblance to real people, events, or places is purely coincidental. I have made every effort to craft a compelling narrative, but I acknowledge that some scenes or details may be inaccurate or unintentionally offensive. For this, I sincerely apologize. My intention is to entertain and inspire, not to harm or misrepresent. Thank you for your understanding.

A man is thrust into the depths of a twisted set of Trials that not only affect him, but the rest of humanity. If he fails: he receives Death. If he succeeds: he stands a chance of gaining access to the Knowledge of Mysteries of the Universe, the Power to rule Worlds, and the Secrets of Eternal Life. What choices will he make? Find out how a broken egoistic man rewrites his own Destiny. 100PS is an extra Chapter. 50GT is an extra Chapter. Update rate is 2 chapter per day, with chapters having 2000 to 3000 words per chapter. High word count is the reason why the price might be rated higher by Webnovel, so be warned. ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Excerpt ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Midas looked around only to hear those restless voices grow louder and louder. All the anger and frustration that the people around him were withholding finally found a way out. The vent was the green skinned lifeform that calmly stood in front of everyone in the square. Agitated people started crowding menacingly around the lifeform, almost as if they would be overcome with violence. "Wait, Wait, What the fuck are you talking about? We don't know who or what you are, and we don't care!" "Yeah! We wanna go home!" "Let us out!" "Yeah! You better let us leave or else we'll f" *BOOM* Right on sight, the heads of twenty odd people who were moving forward seemingly with the intent of stirring trouble all had their heads simultaneously explode. Jets of red blood squirted up from the exposed necks of those people, while the insides of their heads colored the outerwear of the bystanders around them. The steamy red blood immediately created a suffocating atmosphere. Screams and profanities abound as people attempted to move as far away from that green "demon". Some fell over on top of each other, crushing others in the process, others fell on the floor hyperventilating. A piece of flesh landed on Midas' face, but he hadn't even noticed as he was now trying to calm his heart rate while looking around trying to figure out if there was a way he could get away from this situation. "STOP!!", yelled the green lifeform while exuding a terrifying atmosphere about it, and immediately all in the area lost their ability to move or even speak. Midas had never felt such fear in his entire life. Every molecule of DNA in his body was telling him that at that moment in time, his life wasn't in his hands. All he could do was stay still and watch the green lifeform while his ears throbbed with the sound of his own racing heartbeat. "Now that I have your attention, let me continue with my explanation. I will explain this once and once only. The planetary body that you lower beings call 'Earth' has Awakened, and thus it has attained it's right to undergo Planetary Ascension. You all have been chosen by your planet and your performance from now on will determine what will happen to your home planet. If you succeed a whole new Universe will open up to you. Knowledge, and Wisdom that will teach you Evolution. However, If you fail, your planetary body will have it's right of existence revoked... That is … Death." "..." None of the Chosen could say anything at that moment, but their expressions held visions of disbelief, excitement, confusion and despair. Right then, there was a high pitched sound and almost immediately everyone realised that they could now move again. Many fell on the floor from their muscle strain and tense emotional states but that did not stop the green lifeform from continuing it's speech. "Well, it seems we're all on the same page. Now, let's begin the 7 Trials."

Rudra was in the middle of his morning exercise, the rhythmic thud of his feet on the ground and the cool morning air clearing his mind. But his routine was abruptly interrupted by a sound that sent a chill down his spine—the piercing wail of the base siren. That siren only meant one thing: enemy jets were closing in on Indian airspace. Rudra was the first to engage the income Pakistani jets, locking onto an F-16. His MiG might have been old, but in his hands, it was deadly. His first missile found its mark, taking down one of the Pakistani jets. He quickly locked onto a second F-16, but this time, the enemy pilot deployed flares, deflecting the missile. As Rudra maneuvered for another strike, Captain Jorawar’s F-16 swooped in. Rudra managed to avoid the missile fired by Jorawar with a rapid maneuver, but the intense move took a toll on his aging MiG—his engine caught fire, and alarms began blaring in the cockpit. He ejected just in time, but disaster struck—his parachute caught fire, leaving him falling fast towards the earth. As Rudra fell, the cold wind whipping against his face, his life flashed before his eyes—not just the battles and the glory, but the regrets that weighed heavy on his heart. In those final moments, a thought gripped him: if somehow, by some miracle, I survive this... if I get another chance... I will live my life to the fullest. It wasn’t just about duty anymore; it was about making amends, about healing the wounds that time and circumstance had torn open. His mind turned to his foster family—the people who had taken him in after he lost his parents at the age of four. Commander Karanveer Batra, his father's friend, had raised him like his own son, alongside his own children. Yet, despite all the love they had given him, a distance had grown between them. The estrangement had left a scar on his mind, one that made him realize the difference between true blood and a foster family. The girl he had once loved, with all the intensity of a young heart, had ended up marrying his foster brother. She had become his sister-in-law, and Rudra had never dated anyone after that. The pain of that unrequited love had strained his relationship with his brother, and by extension, with his foster father and sister. He could still see his foster father's disappointed, pained face and his sister's helpless, sad eyes. If I survive... I’ll make things right, he vowed. I’ll repair those bonds, and I’ll create a family of my own—a family that I can truly call my own. As these thoughts filled his mind, a strange calm settled over him, and slowly, the world around him faded away. In the distance, the reinforcements from Jamnagar arrived, forcing Jorawar and his squadron to retreat. But for Rudra, the battle was over. What went unnoticed, however, was that Rudra's body had fallen onto the ancient steps of a Shiva temple, believed to be self-manifested. The temple stood silent and untouched, yet from within its depths, a thick, unnatural fog began to seep out, swirling with purpose as it crept closer to his still form—its intent unknown, its origin a mystery. Squadron Leader Rudra Pratap was born in 1992. At 32 years old, he had never married, dedicating his life to duty. And this seemed to be the end of his story... or perhaps, the beginning of something new. Follow Rudra on his journey as he defies fate, transforming from a patriotic soldier into a shrewd and calculating businessman. Watch as he not only reshapes his own life, but alters the balance of global power in his relentless pursuit of success. .................................................. 2 Chapters/Week

In a city ruled by corruption, one man takes a stand. Davon, a fearless vigilante, wages war against the ruthless crime bosses who have terrorized the streets for far too long. As he fights to restore justice, he must confront the personal costs of his crusade: strained relationships, lost loved ones, and the blurred lines between heroism and obsession. Can Davon take down the criminal empire without losing himself? Genre: Action/Thriller

(Disclaimer: Originally written by AFanWithTooMuchTime. This is for offline purposes) ——— When the Grim Dark comes to a Galaxy Far Far Away, there can only be one result. War! The Clone Wars are nearing their conclusion. The Jedi are spread out across the outer rim sieges, and the fighting is reaching its final levels of intensity, before the strain of the conflict forces one side to buckle. And yet, now, in this most precarious of moments, Palpatine senses...a disturbance in the force. A new arrival which stands to threaten EVERYTHING he has schemed so hard to achieve! Meanwhile in another galaxy, after being forced to evacuate nearly an entire subsector before the Ravenous maw of the Great Devourer, "The Skywatch", "The Crimson Razor", and several other Space Marine Chapters along with hundreds of ships and trillions of humans were forced to make a perilous jump through a thin vein of the Cicatrix Maledictum. But even the thinnest vein of chaos courses with reality corroding poison, and the jump has carried them far far further than they ever intended to go. Stranded in a new, dark galaxy, far from the Emperor's light, these collected and contentious warriors of Mankind must now carve out a place for themselves among alien stars that were at war, even before their arrival.

Arjun, once a diligent student from a loving middle-class family, takes a fateful plunge into the world of online gambling, guided by his charismatic friend Raj. The story unfolds as Arjun experiences the highs of early victories, the thrill of virtual games, and the camaraderie that ensues. However, the narrative takes a darker turn as Arjun succumbs to the addictive allure, neglecting his studies, relationships, and responsibilities. The downward spiral intensifies, leading to missed classes, strained friendships, and financial losses. As Arjun battles the consequences, the shadows of his choices seep into his dreams, blurring the lines between the virtual and the real. The tale explores the perils of online gambling, the impact on personal and academic life, and the struggle to regain control. Amidst the chaos, Arjun's journey raises questions about temptation, responsibility, and the fragile balance between the virtual and tangible realms.

"Tangled Hearts: A Tale of Betrayal, Love, and Redemption" Eva’s life seemed set on a joyous path as her wedding to Leo approached, filling her with anticipation and excitement. But on the eve of their nuptials, her dreams are shattered when Leo suddenly disappears without a trace. Heartbroken and pressured by societal expectations, Eva’s parents hastily arrange her marriage to Jayden, a man they know little about. Jayden, burdened by family expectations and bound to a complicated past, brings his own secrets to the union, particularly his existing and peculiar marriage to Susan, who remains indifferent to Eva’s presence. As Eva moves into the opulent Wills penthouse, she quickly finds herself entangled in the web of obligations and pressures that accompany her new role as Jayden’s wife. Confined to the solitude of her room, she grapples with a sense of isolation and frustration, especially as Jayden is often away on business, seemingly more committed to his career than to their marriage. But in the shadows of her confinement, Eva receives a life-changing revelation: she is pregnant. The unexpected news brings a glimmer of hope and joy into her life, even as she continues to navigate the complexities of her strained relationship with Jayden. Amid the turbulent backdrop of her new reality, Eva’s mother reaches out to Leo, urging him to rescue Eva from her unhappy marriage. Leo’s sudden return rekindles old memories and stirs Eva’s heart, drawing her back to a love she thought she had lost. But as she begins to explore her passion for music and dance, Eva realizes that her feelings for Jayden have grown in unexpected ways. The love they share has quietly blossomed, drawing her closer to him and to the possibility of a future together. As their twins approach their first birthday, Jayden returns, transformed and determined to win Eva’s heart. In an intimate moment that reignites the passion between them, Jayden expresses his desire to rebuild their relationship and create a loving home. The revelation of Susan’s deceit and the unveiling of Jayden’s genuine love for Eva lead to a heartfelt reconciliation, culminating in a surprise wedding that signifies their fresh start. *Tangled Hearts* is a poignant journey through love, betrayal, and redemption, weaving a tapestry of emotions that resonate with resilience and the pursuit of happiness. It explores the complexities of relationships, the power of forgiveness, and the enduring strength of love that withstands life’s most unexpected twists.

After serving the military for countless number of wars, the Knight Ahn Uk decided it's time to put down the sword and live as a commoner. But, as the knight, it's his duty to serve for his lifetime, whether he like it or not. A discussion within the disciplinary board about his retirement leading him to a brand new job scope; a bodyguard to a young prince of the Royal Kingdom of Ki family. Underestimated by new post, Uk grabbed the opportunity with one intention; to secure his freedom from the military. Turns out, it wasn't an easy way out. Prince Min Jun is nothing but a rebellious 20-year old young prince who never follows the rules. He loves a wild lifestyle even though he's aware of his illness. Their first encounter was awkward and forceful, making the prince felt the real pressure for having a book strict bodyguard like Uk. Unknowingly, things got turned when both of them slowly willing to learn about each other after a light talk one night. Min Jun unconsciously developed a feelings for Uk, only to be dismiss coldly by the bodyguard. The young prince did whatever it takes to get close to Uk, with the aim to make the man fall for him. Things got complicated between them during the crown prince's 25th birthday celebration. Uk, who experience some odd situation suddenly wake up the next day in the private chamber of Min Jun. The worst part is the state of himself while waking up, bundle in the young prince's embrace in the most natural state. The incident causes a strain relationship between two men. Uk feels that Min Jun is taking advantage of his state, slowly drawing a thick line and avoiding Min Jun, who on the other hand, can't hide his feeling towards Uk anymore. However, after an incident that happened at Min Jun's royal resident, everything changed between them. The two realize they couldn't live without each other, thus, they started to have a relationship. At the same time, there was a news to Min Jun and his friends about an attempted murder that targetting him by an unknown entity. The team began to investigate the matter, only to unveil some sinister fact about the incident. At the same time, Min Jun and Uk's relationship was put in test due to its abnormality among the people of the era. Will they passed the test and be together despite of the judgement society? Who is the person behind the attempted murder of Min Jun and why he was the target? Everything will be answered in this book, so stay tune!

In a world ravaged by the sudden appearance of mysterious gates, humanity is besieged by monstrous creatures from other realms. These dungeons, teeming with deadly threats, demand the protection of skilled Hunters—individuals with extraordinary abilities who brave these perilous environments. They are ranked from H, the weakest, to S, the strongest, with mythical ranks like SS, SSS, SSR, SSLR, and the elusive M rank emerging through extensive research. At the pinnacle, the God rank offers the ultimate power to reshape or destroy reality itself. Aiden "Aiden" Mercer is an H-rank Hunter, struggling to make ends meet as a miner in the crumbling urban sprawl of Neo Haven. His daily battle is not just against the dangers of the mines but also against the financial strain of supporting his ill mother and ensuring his younger sister Lily's education. With their father missing and his memories a distant shadow, Aiden’s life is a relentless grind of survival and responsibility. Everything changes when Aiden uncovers a dark artifact buried deep within the mine—a pulsating orb that grants him a mysterious power. This power, bestowed by a sentient entity known as "The System," transforms Alex into an evolved necromancer. With the ability to command the dead, convert defeated bosses into powerful minions, and manipulate souls to enhance his strength, Aiden’s life takes an extraordinary turn. As Aiden rises through the ranks, from H to M, he faces trials that test his newfound abilities and his resolve. Each victory in the dungeons brings him closer to unraveling the mysteries of the gates and his father's disappearance. Along the way, Aiden builds a formidable team, including Elena, a fiery elemental mage with whom he shares a deepening bond, and Selene, a high-ranking member of the enigmatic Shadow Syndicate. The Syndicate’s support, coupled with Aiden's growing power, propels him into the heart of a cosmic struggle. As Aiden ascends to the ranks of God, he gains the ability to alter reality itself. But with such power comes great responsibility. Alex must navigate the treacherous politics of the Syndicate, confront dark forces intent on exploiting the gates, and fulfill his role as the Eternal Gatekeeper. Faced with the looming threat of an otherworldly invasion, Aiden chooses to embrace his role as a guardian rather than a destroyer. With his minions—ranging from Soldiers to Celestials—and the guidance of The System, Aiden stands as the last line of defense against the encroaching darkness. His journey is one of epic battles, personal growth, and the relentless pursuit of justice for his family and humanity. "Shadowbound Ascension: The Necromancer's Journey" is a thrilling saga of action, intrigue, and transformation, blending urban fantasy and sci-fi elements into a powerful narrative of strength, sacrifice, and redemption.

In a world where the supernatural collides with the ordinary, dungeons—dangerous rifts to other realms—begin appearing across the city, threatening humanity. The Hunter Association, tasked with sealing these rifts, relies on Guides who are psychically linked to Hunters with extraordinary powers. A former soldier, becomes a newly awakened Guide at 27, struggling to adapt to his role. Paired with an S-ranked Hunter, a reckless veteran esper, he faces the daunting challenge of navigating deadly dungeons filled with nightmarish creatures. Their partnership is strained—A disciplined and methodical solider, and an esper who's impulsive and dismissive of rules. As dungeons appear more frequently, each mission tests their limits and teamwork. While the Guide adjusts to his new life and role, the esper wrestles with his haunted past and growing responsibilities. Together, they uncover a disturbing pattern behind the dungeon outbreaks, suggesting a larger, sinister plot at play. Amid the chaos, the guide grapples with the loss of his former life and his growing attachment to his esper, while the looming danger threatens to push them—and their fragile trust—apart. Every decision they make could determine the fate of the city.

The story revolves around two sisters, Melissa and Melinda caught in a web of family drama, betrayal, and ambition. Melissa is engaged to Brian Rowland but was replaced by her sister Melinda, after any accident that left Brian in a vegetative state. Melissa decided to break off the engagement due to his condition. Melissa, melinda’s sister, offers to marry Brian I his state. This decision strains her friendship with Estabel and brings family secrets, including the truth about Brian’s paternity, to light. The story explores the characters' struggles with love, loyalty, and the consequences of their choices.

The City Where You Have to Pay for Oxygen In Speranţă, a dystopian city dominated by megacorporations and covered in toxic fog, life is kept within a dome, controlled with an iron fist. For most of the inhabitants, oxygen comes at a price, and freedom is an unattainable luxury. In Speranţă, some young people are born with powers strong enough to become celebrated heroes; others are thrown into the battlefield with no special training, only the price of survival. They are forced to fight against... whatever is on the other side of the dome. Carlisle, with her sharp tongue, quick wit, and a burning desire to cause destruction, is not one of those prodigious heroines. But maybe she doesn’t need to be. As the city sinks further into darkness, Carlisle finds herself forced to sink along with it. How do villains come to be? Ask anyone, and you'll hear a different answer. But the truth is, everyone has the impulse to become something dark; where the patience to suffer in silence ends, the desire for revenge begins. “Oww, don’t tell me I hurt your feelings?” – the straight, perfect smile played on her lips, mocking, even though she was the one lying on the ground. “If that’s the best you can do, I don’t even want to see the worst.” – As she tried to lift her upper body, the second blow came straight to her ribs, pushing her back against the dirty ground once more. She would have to add that event to the list of “stupid and potentially suicidal things” she had already done. The foot pressing her into the ground remained firm on her back, preventing her lungs from fully expanding. He – whose name she would have to strain to remember – said something, a whisper lost in the wind, because all she could hear was her own heartbeat as she threw a mocking smile at the bastard.

LightHearted follows the story of a half-breed named Toranto Kamala. Born into the Denomi Kingdom, a land primarily ruled by the people of this world classified as "Demons,” he lived with his family. His dream of supporting himself and his mother, however, would not come to fruition as Denomi would fall into a dictatorship. With nowhere to go, having lost his home, Toranto would slowly resolve himself to fight against the regime holding his fate hostage. Succumbing to the insurmountable strain of this world, his very soul would’ve given up had it not been for the demi-human woman who brought him back from despair. Slowly regaining his will to fight, Toranto would find new purpose in a new family, and a newfound conviction to save his home.

"Luna Online" is a thrilling tale that thrusts readers into the turbulent life of Hikari, a resilient young single mother navigating the shadows of past trauma and battling mental health demons. Watch as she transforms into the enigmatic Luna, an online persona providing her a lifeline to a supportive virtual community. The narrative unfolds against a riveting backdrop of complex relationships, toxic dynamics, and the challenges faced by Hikari's endearing children, Sakura and Souske. Immerse yourself in a rich story as societal stigma and emotional repression add layers of suspense to Hikari's journey. As eviction looms and familial strains tighten their grip, Hikari's sister, Hime, emerges as an unexpected force of strength, propelling the story into a thrilling exploration of sisterhood and the quest for one's true self. Brace yourself for an emotional rollercoaster, where every twist and turn brings Hikari closer to the realization of her own resilience and self-discovery.

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

Thousands of people live in Kolkata. All types of Rich, poor, and middle-class people live here. One of them is Alex. For the last two years, he has earned by home delivery in Kolkata. Today is very bad for him, he could not deliver the last three orders on time. So today his income is zero. Also, today is Rai's marriage. Rai is his childhood friend. With whom he grew up. Her father and Alex's father were good friends. His father helps her father during their family crisis. But after the death of Alex's parents, they have not taken any news about Alex or help him. So, their relationship soured. Rai's father, who works in the government, learned about Alex's affection for Rai from their childhood. However, Rai's parents insulted Alex and questioned his upbringing, causing further strain in their relationship. But Everything changed suddenly when he Received a system.

Ariana Westbrook, a kind-hearted and idealistic woman, is about to marry her long-time fiancé, Chase. She dreams of a fairy-tale love story, believing that her life will be perfect once they unite in marriage. Ariana’s family is wealthy but on the brink of bankruptcy, and the union with Chase promises stability and financial security. However, Ariana is unaware that her fiancé has been secretly cheating on her with her younger sister, Evelyn, a manipulative woman who is more concerned with wealth and status than family loyalty. The family’s strained dynamics are revealed as Ariana’s father pressures her to proceed with the wedding, even as her sister Evelyn makes it clear she is willing to do whatever it takes to get ahead. Unbeknownst to Ariana, Evelyn has been plotting to replace her as the bride, believing she deserves the life Ariana was set to inherit.

Can't Make A Choice is a tale of love and heartbreak that revolves around three people—Amelia, Victor, and Elena—whose relationships become more complicated and intertwined over time. Amelia, a reserved and intellectual woman, finds herself caught between the affections of two very different individuals. Victor is a passionate, impulsive man who sweeps her off her feet with his charisma, while Elena, a kind-hearted and intuitive woman, enters Amelia’s life as a close friend, someone who understands her in ways Victor never could. The relationship between these three slowly evolves from friendship into something more complex, as Amelia struggles with her own feelings and desires, torn between the raw intensity of Victor and the quiet, unwavering support of Elena. As the story unfolds, Amelia is forced to confront her deepest fears about love, loyalty, and the cost of choosing one person over the other. Meanwhile, Victor and Elena—unaware of the others' growing affections—become embroiled in their own relationship dynamics, each trying to claim Amelia’s heart in different ways, though neither can truly understand the other’s bond with her. What begins as a battle for Amelia’s love soon turns into a battle for their own identities, as each person struggles with their own insecurities, hopes, and secrets. The relationships become further strained by misunderstandings, betrayals, and moments of overwhelming passion. By the end of the story, each character must confront the painful truth of what love truly means, and whether it’s possible to truly love more than one person at the same time without losing yourself in the process.

Crisis in the Twilight: Rebuilding and New Threats follows a group of survivors as they attempt to rebuild their lives after the zombie apocalypse, grappling with internal strife and external dangers. After escaping hordes of the infected, they find a fortified settlement that offers a glimmer of hope. However, peace is threatened by differing ideologies regarding governance—some favor strict rules for safety, while others advocate for democracy. As tensions rise within the group, they face increasing external threats, including rival factions and new, mutated strains of zombies that are faster and stronger. These challenges force the survivors to weigh the risks of isolation against the necessity of forming alliances. Amidst the chaos, personal relationships complicate the dynamics, with new romances forming and old wounds resurfacing. The reluctant leader of the group struggles to balance individual needs with the community's survival, haunted by past failures. When news of a group claiming to have information about a possible cure for the infection emerges, the survivors must decide whether the potential hope is worth the risk of venturing into hostile territory. This choice highlights the deeper conflicts within the group, as they confront their fears and desires. As tensions reach a breaking point, the survivors face a climactic showdown against rival factions and mutated threats, testing their unity and resolve. Ultimately, **Crisis in the Twilight** explores not just the fight for survival against the infected, but the psychological battles against fear, betrayal, and the struggle to create a meaningful existence in a shattered world.

Isule, a 15-year-old high school student, is both a marijuana user and a courier for his childhood friend who introduced him to cannabis. One day, he unexpectedly meets an elderly scientist who deeply regrets neglecting his family to create the world's best marijuana strain. When the scientist finally succeeds in developing the perfect strain, he finds himself alone and old. At this point, he meets Isule, a young boy with a strong passion for smoking weed. The scientist passes on his legacy to Isule with the condition that he spreads the black void strain worldwide. Will Isule become a leader with this legendary strain, or will he face failure and lose everything?

In the heart of a brutal and unforgiving land, Sundiata Keita, known as Iron Lion, reigns as the powerful king of Sundiata. A direct descendant of the legendary founder of the Mali Empire, Sundiata embodies strength, dominance, and an insatiable thirst for control. Amidst the violence of battle and the complexities of leadership, he struggles with the duality of his nature: the fierce warrior who commands respect and the man who craves intimate connections defined by power. As his kingdom faces external threats and internal dissent, Sundiata's relationships with those around him—especially the beautiful women who serve him—become increasingly strained. When he encounters a young male servant, the boundaries of loyalty, desire, and dominance blur, forcing Sundiata to confront the very essence of his rule. Will he continue down the path of absolute power, or will he find a way to balance his desires with the responsibilities of leadership? As the lines between conquest and intimacy intertwine, Sundiata must navigate the treacherous waters of ambition, vulnerability, and legacy, ultimately asking himself what it truly means to be a king.

"You have every right to scream. But no one is going to rescue you. So it's best you comply with me". Jack told her in a soothing voice. "I don't want this". She said with tears already straining down her cheeks. Jack wiped her tears with his palm. "You will cry now but very soon, you will be the one to thank me". He said as his eyes lustfully looked round her body. He made to unbutton the T-shirt she was wearing, he stared into her eyes in a manner that could send shivers through her spine. "I really want you Bella, and I…..". He stopped as he removed the belt which was on his trouser. "Stop!, just stop. What do you think you want to do". She said in a shaky voice. "What is in your mind".

Gawain awoke to find himself in a pitch-black, cramped space, surrounded by the faint scent of decay. As he reached out, fingers brushing against the cold stone walls, memories of drifting above an unfamiliar land for eons slowly returned. For tens of thousands of years, he had existed as a bodiless spirit, an invisible observer of time and space, with only his thoughts for company. The endless solitude had nearly erased his sense of self. But today, he felt something new—touch. He had finally acquired a body, a physical form. Yet, this “container” felt ominously wrong. Though he longed for a body, he hadn’t expected it to come in the form of something sealed in a coffin. How he came to inhabit this vessel was a mystery, but he knew one thing for certain: he was currently entombed in a burial box. With a bitter laugh, he realized his journey as a “complete” traveler across worlds would begin by clawing his way out of a grave—not exactly the rebirth he’d imagined. Using all his newfound strength, Gawain struggled to push open the heavy coffin lid. His unused muscles ached and strained, but the sensation of real, physical power thrilled him. After several attempts, he finally dislodged the stone cover, letting a thin ray of light pierce the darkness. “At last… a glimpse of the world again.”

'From the ashes we shall rise.' Summary : Compound-Z. The bioweapon developed by China, using an ancient virus strain discovered beneath the Ice Sheets in Tibet’s Guliya Glacier. An outbreak in the bioweapons facility infected the whole city. The City could not be taken back but thankfully the PLA destroyed the whole city before the zombie virus could spread. The problem; after a year, the samples of Compound-Z was found being auctioned in the Bioweapon black market. Before Clayton Nord shut the whole thing down the moment he first discovered it, an unknown number of global players had already gotten hold of the sample, Russia among them. Now all of them are working to find the cure to the Compound-Z, because anyone who has the cure will have huge power and influence over the world, using the cure as leverage. Now Russia is threatening to release Compound-Z into major population centers in the world as they are losing the war with Ukraine. After a thorough analysis of the consequences of the Compound-Z being released into the world, Clayton Nord forms Operation Phoenix to prepare the US for the possibility of a world wide zombie apocalypse. He does everything he can to make sure that some of human civilization survives through the crisis without losing all of humanity's progress over the years. MILESTONES: OPERATION PHOENIX must hit certain milestones to encourage me to continue after the first month. The milestones are to be passed by the end of the month. And they are: Gain 30 readers following/collections by the end of November . Gain a 50 favorites/power stones by the end of November. Gain 20 reviews and ratings by the end of November. For the First Month these are the Milestones that must be passed to encourage me to continue the story. There is no requirement to support me by sponsoring the work with money for the first month but it would help greatly, for me to focus on writing the Novel. What to expect: Crazy action scenes with zombies. People like to read more about the first outbreaks through an ordinary person’s POV the moment the outbreak occurs. So in Phase One you can read the outbreak stories through multiple viewpoints in various places. Phase One would have the largest word count because of that. And some characters may not live through Phase One. Zombies are the antagonists but there will be other fleshed out human antagonists that pose a serious threat to Operation Phoenix further into the story. You will get to see the moment at start when the outbreak happens till the Zombie apocalypse ends. The struggle Clayton Nord, as commander of Operation Phoenix, faces to ensure that most of the population of the USA survives through the apocalypse, a task that is almost impossible. Rich world building and lore with unique characters. Plan for the Novel: New chapters are released every Monday. I will try to keep the timing consistent. At the end of the series I want to convert it into an ebook to sell on Amazon. The end product might be different than the chapters I have published as I try to improve upon them. Thank You so much for spending your time reading my work. You can support me via https://ko-fi.com/hughstarling

Forced out by the demands of her pregnant stepmother, Empress Anastasia Brokenoff is sent to Nochten, the homeland of vampires, under the promise she will have a better life amongst her mother's kin. But Ana only finds things cold and hostile. She is mocked for being half a vampire, her relatives ignore her, and the maids keep quitting. Unable to do anything until she is old enough and has her first blood, Ana chooses to hide behind books or wander her late Mother's Rose garden, living in isolated obscurity. That is until the arrival of a new maid, who may be in on more than she lets on and is determined to rekindle the strained relationship with her father. Such a simple act sparks a chain of events that throws Ana into a new world of people. People like Prince Nicoli, her half-brother, who invokes strange feelings while handling her overbearing cousin, Mykhol, who seems to be oddly focused on getting close to her. Book 1 of The Nocthen trilogy.

Crypto Pandemic Hunter helped uncover evidence of my ex-wife's unfaithful behavior. She became more distant, secretive, and worked late into the night, straining our relationship. Seeking answers, I turned to this hacker who showed great discretion and empathy from the start, helping me through my depression. By monitoring her calls, social media, and emails, they revealed her affair with a colleague. Their spyware tracked her movements, confirmed her betrayal leading to our divorce. I highly recommend Crypto Pandemic Hunter for their unmatched digital spying skills and unwavering client dedication. Their efforts helped me manage the chaotic situation finding clarity and peace. I am forever grateful for their help. Contact: Email: cryptopandemichunter@consultant.com /cryptopandemichunter678@zohomail. com WhatsApp: +1 (205) 3573937 Website: https://cryptopandemichunter.com.

In the elite halls of Colesaw High, Alma Giovanni and Grey Astrid not only share a prominent social standing but are also entangled in a passionate romance spiraling out of their grasp. Their relationship, fraught with risk, remains concealed beneath the burdens of societal norms. Grey, known for his charm as the star quarterback, conceals a darker side from everyone except Alma. She is a driven individual with a carefully charted future, but her growing feelings for Grey jeopardize everything she has worked for. As rumors circulate, both are embroiled in internal struggles and family mysteries. When Ashley Key arrives, she discovers their secret romance and begins to blackmail Alma, escalating the strain on their already delicate bond. Through a series of breakups and reconciliations, Alma and Grey are forced to face their authentic selves and reevaluate their love for one another. In a landscape where loyalty is scarce, and treachery threatens at every turn, they must determine if their relationship can endure the toxic dynamics of Colesaw or if it will collapse under the pressure of hidden truths. Can they achieve redemption, or will their love simply end up another loss?

In his mid-twenties, Ryan Song had achieved unparalleled success. Inheriting a small fortune from his late parents, he built an international business empire generating billions in yearly revenue. But his thriving life took a sudden turn when he mysteriously fell ill and passed out, only to awaken in a parallel world where everything was different. Now younger than he remembers, Ryan finds himself in a fantastical realm where magic reigns supreme and diverse species like elves, dwarves, demons, and vampires coexist. In this world, his parents are alive, but their relationship is strained and their family business is on the brink of collapse. Determined to rebuild his life, Ryan sets out to mend his fractured family ties and restore their standing in the business world. Along the way, he learns the intricacies of magic from a knowledgeable mentor, mastering new abilities to aid in his quest. Driven by the desire to return to his original world, Ryan embarks on an epic journey, exploring the magical realm in search of clues and methods that might lead him back home. As he navigates this enchanting yet perilous world, he encounters allies and adversaries, uncovers hidden truths, and discovers the strength within himself to overcome every challenge. Join Ryan on a thrilling adventure filled with magic, mystery, and the relentless pursuit of a way back to his true home.

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