Gay Ash Ketchum

Six years ago, he ended their engagement when he showed up at their celebration with his new wife, publicly humiliating her and her family. Now, he needs her to be the mother of his children. An Enemies-to-Lovers Second Chance Romance under the sun of Delhi, India. Genres: Enemies-to-Lovers Arranged Marriage Billionaire Contemporary Romance Second Chance Romance New Adult/Adult fiction Delhi India love story Forced Proximity Clean Romance Women’s Fiction

The endless war has ravaged the world for centuries, leaving it in flames and ashes. Cedar, a nameless foot soldier, struggles to survive as nothing more than a disposable pawn. But the age of war is ending—not in peace, but in chaos. Ancient beings awaken, their return threatening to shatter the world itself. As Cedar uncovers forgotten truths about the world’s origins and the forces at play, he must rise from the ashes—or be consumed by the coming storm. ————————— A chapter a day keeps the haters away, more chapters on Sunday. Missing chapters on days that I’m busy will be filled out later…somehow

What would happen if a peasant boy became the King of England? In the heart of a crumbling British Empire, where rebellion stirs in the colonies and the kingdom’s coffers run dry, a young orphan named Elias toils away in an isolated monastery. Born with nothing and destined for obscurity, he dreams of freedom but knows the harsh reality of his place in the world. Everything changes when Prince Edward, heir to the throne, is sent to the monastery for safekeeping during England’s darkest hour. The arrogant, cold-eyed prince seems worlds apart from Elias, yet the two boys are thrust into each other's lives as a monastery fire, killing the prince and leading to Elias stepping up and taking his place - by force by his life long mentor. Through trials of betrayal, ambition, and courage, Elias begins to uncover the truth about the world, power, royalty — and about himself. What starts as a struggle to survive becomes a journey to claim a destiny far greater than he ever imagined. "Ashes of a Kingdom" is a gripping tale of power, sacrifice, and an impossible rise to the throne in a time of war and revolution. When the flames die down, will Elias be the saviour England needs—or the king it never expected?

[Pursuit Drama + The Powerful Bowing for Love + Strong Male and Female Leads] 1. A Chance Reunion “Six years, Marian. Do you ever think about the past?” — A serendipitous encounter with the one who left her heartbroken. Fate, or just bad timing? 2. Unspoken Confessions “I don’t need your approval, Aaron. I’ve made it this far without you.” — A woman proving her strength in a world that once dismissed her. 3. Secrets Behind the Power “Aaron’s success wasn’t just about business—it was about burying emotions he couldn’t handle.” — What happens when a powerful man meets the one woman who challenges his control? 4. Quiet Tension in the Elevator “Wait,” he said, just as the doors began to close. “You don’t have to do this alone.” — Two people, worlds apart, trapped in the same moment. Can time heal old wounds? 5. Crossing Boundaries “You’re my boss, not my savior.” — Marian draws a line, but will Aaron respect it, or cross it to save her? 6. The Painful Truth “You think I’m just a nobody? Maybe I am, but at least I know who I am.” — A woman’s dignity clashes with the arrogance of the man she once loved. 7. Sparks in the Rain “You’re soaked.” “So are you. What’s your excuse?” — A storm forces them together, but can they withstand the emotions brewing between them? 8. Business and Betrayal “The numbers add up, but people don’t. What are you hiding, Aaron?” — Trust is a fragile thread in a high-stakes deal. 9. Vulnerability Unveiled “You want to know the truth? I was afraid. Afraid to let anyone in, especially you.” — A confession that could change everything. 10. The Breaking Point “I’m done waiting for an apology that will never come. Goodbye, Aaron.” — Sometimes, walking away is the strongest move a person can make.

"If the world stands in my way, if people threaten me or those who are dear to me, then I shall become the true darkness, the fear in their hearts that haunts them forever!" Lee Gaon was a professional gamer until one day she was framed as a cheater by a big gaming company and betrayed by those she held dear. Now she is known as Death Eater, a powerful dark entity in the game system world, slicing her enemies in half if they dare mess with her. Her path is now filled with blood and adventure as she desperately tries to find all who were dragged with her into this world—those who destroyed her life. She has only one goal now... "Revenge!" Content Warning: This work contains scenes of gore, violence, and strong language. Reader discretion is advised.

To the world, Seraphina Evercrest was the perfect noblewoman: graceful, talented, and beautiful. Her love for Crown Prince Leander Celestis was like a fairy tale, the two destined to be immortal lovers. But everything changed with an imperial decree—she was forced to marry the cold-hearted Prince Lysander Celestis, a man as ruthless as he was powerful. For a year, they lived as distant strangers, their marriage bound by polite indifference. But behind his facade of mutual respect, Lysander let her suffer in silence, confined to a life of misery within the palace walls. After two years as empress, another imperial decree stripped her of her title, banishing her to the cold palace—a desolate prison where hunger and hardship became her only companions. Seraphina thought her suffering would eventually end. But the final blow came with a decree to confiscate her family’s wealth, destroying everything she once held dear. Only then did she realize that her marriage, her humiliation, and her suffering were all part of Lysander’s grand conspiracy. The man she once loved, dressed in white beneath the pear blossoms, was lost to her forever by his command. Escaping the clutches of death, Seraphina rose from the ashes of her ruined life. Laughing bitterly at the heavens, she swore: “Lysander Celestis, you destroyed my love, my family, and my soul. I’ll bury you with the weight of your entire kingdom!” Three years later, she returned, her army of iron steeds and golden swords shaking the empire. And only then did Lysander realize the truth—Seraphina was the one he had been searching for all along. Overcome with regret, the proud prince bowed his head before her, but it was too late. She smiled behind her tears and whispered, “When love turns to ashes, even the brightest flames cannot rekindle it. It’s too late.” Themes: A tale of betrayal, resilience, and the blurred line between love and hate. Finally A New Book is out, I'm participating In the CUPID'S QUILL DEC 2024 so let's do this together 3 Chapters per day 4 Chapters if the books gets lots of powerstones and Golden Tickets Reviews In the comments section

Love, Betrayal, Blood, but not Hatred. Only cold revenge, and a son to complete the family. "D" Section, a nonexistent military unit. "D" for dark, "D" for depth, "D"... for death. It demanded no attachment, and Daemon sacrificed love for it. Years later, the death of his teammates made him feel that he had done enough for the country, so he came back to the city he grew in. But can what has been forsaken be gained back? Because now Evelyn, the one to have breathed vitality in his numb, orphaned heart, had her own life, and a little boy calling her mother. Also, while he left his life full of dead bodies behind, did that life really let him go? From the ashes, will it love or... ? _ _ _ Two lovers who still love each other even with scars left behind by past events. They narrowly miss a chance to meet again and rekindle the lost spark, with him left with an empty heart, and her with her pain renewed, only buried because of the sun of her life, her son, their son… that he knew nothing about. They each continue with their own life in their own way. Their paths even almost become parallel to each other, almost taking the opposite direction with new commitments. But fate be damned, even if it now seems to push them toward each other. From the ashes, their love shall blaze anew. Or maybe not. Find the answer yourself. ___ First draft of characters image on my discord, a channel for fans to get together: https://discord.com/invite/C86EJvCJdd Comment and review, don't forget.

In the realms above, supernatural beings of unfathomable magnificence exist, far beyond mortal comprehension. These divinities wield unimaginable power, capable of obliterating worlds with a mere breath. However, what unfolds when these gods meet their demise? Set in a remote corner of the vast universe, long after the apocalyptic Thousand Millennium War of the Heavenly Beasts and Deities, this tale delves into a forgotten world. Here, the ashes of fallen gods descend upon an insignificant pebble, adrift amidst the cosmic tapestry of space and time. Their impact alters the life of a proud young man, who embraces the abrupt changes thrust upon his world. Refusing to yield to the clutches of fate and karma, he dares to defy the heavens themselves. Will he triumph over an insurmountable destiny, or succumb to fate like gods of unimaginable might did before him? The dreams of a deceased deity and the fate of a dying world hang precariously, hinged upon the future of this young man. He treads upon an endless bridge, forged from the corpses of the fallen. Unlock this epic saga of death, sorrow, war, blood, love, vengeance, and triumph with your own eyes. *** You can also reach out to: Discord:https://discord.com/invite/QQ3vybav Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/invites/contact/?i=9xjl0tq1cs3e&utm_content=qx5nrdu

Jordan Jude is a successful billionaire CEO. He has power, money, and a good reputation. But Jordan has one secret, a secret he kept hidden from everyone: he's gay. However, his life falls apart when news of his romantic relationships with men becomes public. His company’s stock falls, investors leave, and the media attacks him. Jordan sees his business begin to fail. To save his company and image, his father suggests a bold idea: Jordan should hire a fake bride. A fake marriage with a woman can help quiet the critics and rebuild his public image. Jordan dislikes this plan, but he feels he has no choice.

Humanity has rebuilt itself from the ashes of the Great Collapse, an event that reshaped civilizations and erased much of the past. Among the remnants of that forgotten world are relics of immense power, revered and feared for their mysterious origins. Nine strangers, each wielding a powerful relic, are transported to a strange island filled with deadly machines, cryptic ruins, and trials designed to push them to their limits. As they navigate its dangers, they must confront their own weaknesses, forge uneasy alliances, and uncover the secrets that bind them to this place. But the island hides a deeper purpose—one tied to the relics they carry and the truth of humanity’s greatest mistake. Survival is only the first test.

Kings Covenant: The Ashes of the Golden Cage unfolds in a world where ancient magic and advanced technology coexist, shaping a fragile peace amid ruins of once-great empires. The last known continent, home to diverse kingdoms and mysterious ruins, is teeming with powerful magical creatures and relics of a forgotten age. New technologies—born of both arcane knowledge and scientific innovation—are being rapidly developed, yet remnants of the past linger, casting long shadows over the present. At the heart of this world are two kings, Caelan Althar and Dorian Valen, once childhood friends who now find themselves at odds. Their bond shattered over the discovery of an ancient artifact known as the Golden Cage, a relic tied to long-lost powers. The artifact holds the potential to change the world, but its true nature is veiled in mystery, and neither king fully understands the consequences of using it. Years earlier, Caelan and Dorian, along with their companions, formed a club at an elite academy where they explored ancient ruins and uncovered relics infused with magic. They encountered mythical creatures—elemental beings, monsters, and guardians that once roamed freely. But now, as rulers, Caelan hesitates to use the Golden Cage, knowing that its power could bring disaster. Dorian, in a desperate attempt to save his kingdom from ruin, betrays his former friend and takes the artifact for himself. Unbeknownst to both kings, powerful forces—both magical and technological—are at work, manipulating their actions toward a catastrophic end. As war seems inevitable, the ancient world’s secrets begin to unravel, threatening to release forces that neither man can control. Kings Covenant: The Ashes of the Golden Cage is a tale of betrayal, ambition, and the unbreakable bond between friendship and power. It explores the allure of ancient magic, the dangers of rediscovered technologies, and the creatures that still roam the world—an epic journey through a land on the brink of rediscovering its greatest mysteries.

Popular girl Ari Cho is absolutely charming, leaving Yumi Kim, the school nerd, so gay to function normally. ** FOREWORD: Like any other day, I sat back and watched Ari hold court in the far corner of the school cafeteria. She was surrounded by her usual swarm of admirers, each one trying—and failing—to win her over. One by one, they crumbled under the weight of her gentle rejections, their faces painted with the sting of unrequited affection. Oh, what a marvellous sight to behold. The scene took a dramatic turn when two of the boys started arguing, throwing out accusations about who was making Ari more uncomfortable. The irony was almost too good—they were both so oblivious to the fact that their entire presence was likely making her want to bolt out the door. I took another bite of my sandwich, savouring the free entertainment. Poor Ari, trapped in the middle of a gaggle of hormonal teenagers who genuinely believed their cringe-worthy displays of “manliness” would sweep her off her feet. Pathetic. You might be wondering why I’m not stepping in to rescue Ari from that circus of admirers. Well, let me give you three solid reasons why meddling is a terrible idea for me. First, I’m no Superman—I don’t do heroic deeds. Second, I’m far too comfortable living my drama-free life to jeopardise it now. And third, let’s be real, my body is definitely not built for a catfight. As I happily munched on my sandwich, enjoying the chaos from a safe distance, I made a grave error, I locked eyes with Ari. Oh, crap. Picture this: while the two idiotic boys were still mid-argument, Ari—with a slightly shy smile—started walking towards my direction, her tray of food balanced in her hands. No, no, no. God, please tell me she’s not actually coming to talk to m— “Hi, Yumi!” she said casually, her smile so bright it could power a small city. ** OTHER STORIES: Miss Not So Typical (on going) Join the discord: https://discord.gg/mCBYVgW8MH

Bakar Naharrio is an orphaned Nomad living among the great Orguzh steppe. A harsh and cruel world awaits him but unimaginable power awaits those who can but reach out and grasp it.

Synopsis: Title: Shardbreaker Tagline: When the world shattered, power chose the broken. --- The world was once protected by a barrier known as the Veil. Eighty years ago, the Veil shattered, fracturing reality itself and merging Earth with fragments of otherworldly realms called Shards. These Shards brought untold dangers, treasures, and monsters — but also gave rise to Shardbreakers, individuals who wield the chaotic, unpredictable energy of the Aether to control and battle within the Shards. Yun Tae-Hyun, an unremarkable delivery boy, lives in the neon-lit chaos of Seoul, surrounded by Shardbreakers, rogue traders, and monstrous threats. He has no Aether Mark, no special powers — until one fateful day when a Shardstorm strikes, and an immense Shard crashes into him. The forbidden fragment awakens a forbidden power within him: the ability to distort reality itself. But this power comes at a cost. Tae-Hyun’s newfound ability[Distortion Shatterstep and Aetherbind] are wildly unstable and dangerous. As he grapples with the chaos of his abilities, he attracts the attention of both powerful Clades of Shardbreakers hunting him for his Forbidden Shard and monstrous, mind-bending enemies born from the shards. With the Arbiter, a mysterious figure who claims to be the creator of the Veil, pulling the strings, Tae-Hyun must navigate a fractured world, protect his sick sister Ji-Hye, and decide whether to restore the Veil, which would erase all the Shards — and humanity — or embrace his dangerous powers to forge a new world from the remains. Caught between factions, monsters, and his own spiraling descent into chaos, Tae-Hyun must master his Distortion powers before they consume him — or the world will be consumed instead. --- This is a tale of survival, choice, and the unpredictable consequences of wielding immense power. Shardbreaker promises high-stakes, emotionally driven action with mind-bending combat and a menace Mc who must decide whether saving the world is worth losing himself.

“What's done is done! Let's just forget it!” He said and acted nonchalantly, even though he was cowering in fear because something was telling him that the stranger in front of him didn't intend to let go. The man's frown increases and Hayden swears that the temperature in the room increases multiple times. After winning over his heart and stealing his first, this boy wanted to avoid responsibility, which made Zenos annoyed. “You want to run away from me?” He asked in annoyance, and suddenly Hayden found himself under the man without even knowing how. “I'm just…” Hayden wasn't able to finish his words before he was domineeringly kissed by the stranger. Zenos used his left hand to pin Hayden's hand on top of Hayden's head effortlessly. Hayden tried to struggle and blocked the stranger's tongue from dominating his mouth by pressing his lips against each other stubbornly, but the man unexpectedly bit Hayden's bottom lips, making Hayden yelp in pain. The man used that chance to clean all the taste of strawberries in Hayden's mouth, while his right hand continued to stroke Hayden's body wantonly. When Hayden was starting to go dizzy due to shortness of breath, he was released by the man's assault. He breathed in and out rapidly and thanked heaven for the chance to live again. “You can't run away from me… You are mine” Zenos growled into Hayden's neck possessively. Hayden felt a shiver run through his spine after hearing the stranger's words. His breath hitched as the man licked his earlobe and kissed his neck with extreme familiarity, domineeringly. “Mine,” the stranger proclaimed again. The stranger gave a low curse word and rolled off Hayden's shivering sensitive body, “I'll spare you because you're still in pain. You won't be as lucky next time” he said and lifted Hayden's chin to peck him one more time while Hayden stared dumbfounded. Cover isn't mine, found online My new bl novel is out: The Journey Of Chasing After The Transmigrated Straight Shou

In a world ruled by the iron fist of the Helvark Empire, freedom is a distant memory. The empire has conquered most of the known lands, wielding powerful ancient technology and forbidden magic to crush all opposition. Its ultimate goal? To awaken an ancient force that will ensure their dominance for eternity. However, in the shadow of oppression, a spark of rebellion ignites. A diverse group of outcasts, warriors, and visionaries—each with their own reasons to despise the empire—join forces to fight back. Among them are a disillusioned imperial tactician, a spirited rogue from a forgotten tribe, and a mysterious artificer who holds the key to the empire’s darkest secret. United by their hatred of tyranny but divided by their ideals, the group must learn to trust each other as they unravel the mysteries of the empire’s power. From infiltrating heavily-guarded fortresses to uncovering allies in the most unlikely places, the rebellion wages a desperate war to reignite hope in a world consumed by despair. But with the empire’s grip tightening and betrayals lurking around every corner, can the rebellion rise like a phoenix from the ashes—or will they fall like countless others before them?

Sophia Bennett, betrayed by her husband and step-sister, faced a gruesome end—burned alive with her unborn child. But fate grants her a second chance. Reborn back to when it all began, Sophia now have the chance to rewrite her tragic story. Reborn at the most critical moment that will change her life, “the arranged marriage with the richest and handsome bachelor, Alexander Brooks” which she escaped from in her previous life. Will Sophia get married and destroy Olivia's path to riches? Or finds herself entangled with Alexander Brooks. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ “ Are you that desperate to secure the position of “Mrs Brooks” that you'll shamelessly throw yourself at me”? Alexander asks, his voice laced with contempt, his deeps eyes looking at the woman squirming under him. His eyes trails her curvy body as his right hand squeeze the soft mound on her chest, he thought he'd find her touch disgusting but his body couldn't help but react to her and he can barely control his actions. “Ummmm” Sophia moans to his touch “ p-please” she murmurs trembling, her eyes clouded as she rubs her hot and soft body against him. She feels hot all over and couldn't help groping his body to find relief. Loosing all restraint, Alexander leans to her ear, biting it and whispers huskily “since you're so eager, then don't blame me for being unrestrained”. He sucks her neck, bites down, “ahhhh ummmm” Sophia squirms in bliss. His hand roams her soft body, his head leaves her neck as he kiss his way down to her collarbone and down to her twin peaks. He latches unto one of her breasts, sucks and swirls his tongue round her erect nipple. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ “Rebirth from Ashes” weaves love, betrayal, redemption, and new beginnings.

Killed in own game and reborn as Wekest Ash lizard worker in depth of hell.

In a world where magic and curses intertwine, Seyrin, a boy imprisoned in a hidden orphanage in Eryndia, bears within him a cursed flame—an inheritance of an ancient bloodline marked by darkness and despair. His draconic eyes and oppressive aura mark him as an anomaly, a danger, even among his peers—children raised to become living weapons. Isolated in a world of silence and suffering, Seyrin must fight not only against his captivity but also the weight of his curse. For within him burns a destructive power that could either set him free or consume everything around him. In the shadows, the truth of his cursed blood and the origin of his flame begin to unravel, threatening to upend the fragile balance of an already fractured world.

Following the two environmental cataclysms the world is mostly unhabitable. The remaining powers in the world have banded together to try and find a way to save humanity before the third cataclysm which will result in the end of the Earth. This story follows a few joys growing up in this world as they slowly discover the truth about themselves and the truth of the word they live in, all while trying to save humanity from multiple dangers before it’s too late. The story starts of slow, and progresses slowly at the start. It's because I'm trying to let Tenet grow and change slowly, my advice is to enjoy it before the novel picks up. I also try to limit any info dump, but I will slowly reveal more and more about the world as organically as I can, just try to be patient with me.

Lillac's plan to give her a boyfriend a suprise came to an tragic end as she found confessing to another girl . She couldn't believe the man who loved her so much would ever do something like this . The heartbroken Lillac wanted to just disappear. But Diana doesn't seem to be in the mood to just let her be . How will Lillac when her supposed rival in love show a sudden interest towards her ? Will she find the reason why she can't just ignore the other girl ? Read the story to find out more about the journeys in discovering all the twist and turn .

Edward and Samantha want to turn their deep love into marriage without being aware of some hidden truth which lies in the past. They arrange dinner on Christmas Eve to meet each other's families and declare about their marriage, the situation becomes darker when Edward and Samantha Know the secret which causes them to part from their devoted love.

Warning: This novel is R-18, it contains sexually explicit scenes, mature language, and boy-to-boy romance. ••• Armando is a long time boyfriend of a gay senior high student. He will risk everything and does sacrifice just to show his love and let it feel to his sweetheart, Hale. This is a love story where the antagonist and second leading man whose love is more genuine and sincere. "What I hated the most when I realized the fact that MY BOSS IS INLOVED WITH HIS GAY SECRETARY." And that gay secretary is Hale. How can he deal with this? How can he fight his love if his love rival is a million times wealthier than him?

In the 18th century of Silverwood Manor, there is a beautiful girl known as Dominique Laurent, Domi for short. Dominique Laurent stands with an elegance of her navy blue hair, meticulously arranged in a high ponytail. Adding a touch of boldness to her demeanour. Her black shimmery hues of her eyes reflect the grace and depth of her character. She always had a great life in terms of owning both money and looks, since a little girl. One day in Silverwood Manor, tragedy struck upon Domi in the Laurent family. Dominique, once used to a life of privilege, found herself facing the harsh reality of loss and chaos. The echoes of grief floats through the grand halls that were once filled with laughter and joy. Domi found herself signing a contract with a vampire to help her situation, in exchange for her blood. The vampire goes by Viktor Stormgrave. His beautiful long pink moving along the wind, casting a beautiful pink shine from the midnight moonlight. Creating an ethereal contrast against his pale porcelain skin. His crystal pink eyes, like rare gems, captivate with a unique allure. He stood gracefully with a meticulously tailored suit. As Dominique and Viktor spent more time together, a strange and unexpected bond formed between them. Viktor, with his mysterious charm and centuries of experience, proved to be a more than a friend for Dominique in her troubled days. The silver moonlight witnessed their chemistry together in the enchanting gardens of Silverwood Manor, where their connection deepened. Glimpse into the future... *I have wattpad too, @/ dreamLand45 Character in this story is from Dream Mansion game, Art taken from, credits to: https://pin.it/5Mb19Nq

Title: The Chronicles of Eryndor: The Kingdoms of Ash and Light Summary: In the mystical land of Eryndor, ancient magic flows through the veins of royalty and nobles alike. The land is divided into three powerful kingdoms—Ashenfall, Luminara, and Eldrith—each ruled by a royal family bound to an ancient pact that keeps peace and order. However, beneath the surface of diplomacy and grandeur, a web of betrayal, power struggles, and dark secrets threatens to unravel the delicate balance between the kingdoms. The story follows multiple noble families, each vying for power, as they navigate alliances, feuds, and forbidden magic. Princess Celeste of Luminara, the heir to the Light Throne, discovers her unique magical abilities, which could either save or doom her kingdom. Prince Ryland of Ashenfall, a charming yet ruthless strategist, seeks to expand his kingdom's influence but finds his path blocked by a mysterious prophecy. Meanwhile, Lady Vespera of Eldrith uncovers a dangerous conspiracy within her family, and a secret that could alter the fate of all the kingdoms. As love, loyalty, and betrayal clash, each noble must choose their path—whether to embrace destiny or forge their own fate in a world where magic is as dangerous as it is powerful. The series delves into the complexities of power, family, and the sacrifices required to rule in a world where every decision could be a matter of life or death. Rich with political intrigue, magic, and deep-rooted traditions, The Chronicles of Eryndor invites readers into a world where nobility is tested, and the line between right and wrong is often blurred.

For years, he knew only stillness. Confined to a body that refused to move, unable to speak or act, his world was reduced to the smallest of motions—a blink, a breath. He had lived on the fringes of existence, watching life pass him by while his dreams withered, unreachable. On modern-day Earth, his broken body had long sentenced him to a life of quiet despair. Then the world changed. When the heavens split and the Cultivation Assist System descended, the rules of reality were rewritten. The Awakening brought power, opportunity, and a spark of hope to every corner of the world. For him, it brought a miracle: the chance to heal. The system mended the broken shell that had confined him for so long, restoring his strength and granting him the body he had always longed for. For the first time in years, he stood, felt the earth beneath his feet, and believed he could rise alongside the world’s new era. But even miracles have limits. While others rushed into the grand Pagodas—the centers of knowledge and cultivation where the strongest paths began—he was denied entry. Barred from the heart of the Awakening, he was forced to endure its trials on the outskirts. Every step forward came harder for him than it did for others. He clawed and fought for scraps of the opportunities others seemed to have handed to them. But he did not stop. Through sheer determination, he began to ascend. Slowly but surely, he carved out his place in the new world, defying the odds and the whispers of those who doubted him. He could see the life he had dreamed of—freedom, power, and the chance to soar—just within reach. But the world was not as kind as he believed. Just as he reached for the heights he had fought so hard to claim, betrayal struck. The knife that ended his life came not from an enemy, but from someone he thought loved him. The warmth of trust turned to the cold sting of death, and in his final moments, as the darkness took him, he wondered how he could have been so blind. But death was not the end. When he awakens again, in a new life and body, the memories of his first remain vivid and sharp. The struggles, the triumphs, and the bitter sting of betrayal—they burn within him, forging a determination that will not be silenced. The Cultivation Assist System is still there, but the rules of his second life are different, and the world he returns to is even more dangerous than before. Ashes to Apex follows the journey of a young man who rose from nothing, fought against impossible odds, and was struck down before he could truly soar. It is a tale of rebirth, ambition, and the unyielding drive to rise beyond the limits of fate. As the embers of his first life ignite a new flame, one question remains: How far can he rise before the ashes of his past threaten to consume him once more?

Born in the slums of the war-torn city-state of Drakmoor, Ardyn Veyne’s life was carved by betrayal, survival, and violence. At ten, he witnessed his family brutally executed during a coup. Sold into slavery, he endured years of unimaginable horrors until he seized an opportunity for escape, leaving a trail of blood behind. Now, armed with the enigmatic “System of Judgment”, Ardyn carves his path as a mercenary and information broker in a brutal, dystopian world. But the System doesn’t just grant power; it judges every choice he makes, offering rewards for cold pragmatism and punishing acts of unnecessary compassion. As political conspiracies, ancient forces, and personal vendettas intertwine, Ardyn is thrust into a game far bigger than himself—one where his decisions will tip the balance between the world's survival or its annihilation.

I, a Chinese gay man. I'll share my interesting travel stories in the last decade with you.