Candle Cove

"I'm one game away from reaching the master rank! I'll do it tomorrow, though. A true gamer knows when to refresh his mind and increase his victory chances!" Adam smiled in anticipation as he went to sleep on this special day. However, he could have never imagined the surreal awakening that awaited him. "What's wrong with my voice?!"  "Claws? A tail and horns, too?" [Welcome to the demon realm. You have been selected to reincarnate as a Lord. Conquer this realm of fire and ashes, become its uncontested ruler... or die trying.] Reincarnated as an imp in the cruel demon realm, at the borders of the mythological demon Baal's territory, his life seemed doomed from the start. However, a steely glint flashed in his eyes as against all odds, he defiantly proclaimed. "No matter who decided to make me start as an imp, watch as I turn into a veritable devil. Even Baal won't hold a candle against me in the future!" Equipped with his unique talent in a world where competition raged between the reincarnated earthlings, where heroes like Heracles, Wukong, Muramasa, Achilles, Merlin, Cu Chulainn, and many others were more than forgotten legends, and where gods' and demons' dangerous schemes paved his every step, he'd prove to those realms that demons were more than the violent and deceptive creatures everyone feared. ----------------------- Welcome everyone! You can expect a mix of gods/demons from almost every pantheon (even the more obscured ones) with gods and demons like Odin, Zeus, Ishtar, The Jade Emperor, Ball, Izanagi, and many others! You can also expect travels through the mysterious abyss, Jotunheim, and soon Muspelheim, the underworld, Tartarus etc... Please do check out my first book if you enjoy fantasy stories. :) Discord server with fan art of the most notable chars: Discord server: https://discord.gg/ubzzKM5wfp

While they mine for gold, I dig graves. While they use healing ointment, I munch on graveyard grass. While they take Mana Potions, I light incense and candles. While they meditate to recover, I rest in a coffin, While they attack with magic, I retaliate by tossing paper money. ... Let's see how a skeleton turns the tables in an online game, stirring up chaos to become the ultimate boss!

Discord: https://discord.gg/2pp2DermTh A remake of another novel I created. Kazuki Takumi Amagiri was always a kid with a troubling life, abusive parents, poverty, being bullied at school you know the usual sob story that probably goes in a documentary for the early life of a serial killer or something. Throughout his life he's always wondered if maybe the reason world hates him was because he had the audacity to exist. But through a series of events he met his best friend and was introduced to a series of games where he found his spark of resilience to carry on in life in a character named Markus one of the main antagonists of the book. And ten years later he's a university student, dormmates with his best friend and is just about to finish getting his degrees. He'd also just finished playing the third installment in a his favorite video game franchise All was going well in life, things were looking up until in one cruel twist it was over, no fanfare, no "going out with a bang", Kazuki's life just fizzled out like a candle in the wind. Curiously though, Kazuki's story was not over as he found himself in the body of "Markus" at the start of his story. How will this strangely ironic twist of fate change the world at large? And more importantly how will it change our main character?

In the enchanting world of "Captured Hearts: A Tale of Love and Destiny," two souls destined for each other find their lives intertwined against the backdrop of a picturesque coastal town named Serendipity Cove. Set in the late 19th century, this epic romance takes us on a journey through the complexities of fate, love, and the choices that shape our destinies. At the heart of the story are Evelyn Ashcroft, a spirited young woman with a passion for painting, and Charles Sterling, a brooding yet brilliant writer who has retreated to Serendipity Cove to find solace from his troubled past. Their paths cross one fateful summer when Evelyn stumbles upon a hidden cove while exploring the coastline. Little does she know that this chance encounter will set in motion a series of events that will forever change the course of their lives. Evelyn and Charles are drawn to each other from the moment their eyes meet. As they spend time together, they discover a shared sense of longing and an unexplainable connection that transcends the boundaries of time and space. However, their budding romance is far from straightforward. Both harbor secrets and wounds from their past that threaten to tear them apart. As the story unfolds, the reader is taken on a rollercoaster of emotions as Evelyn and Charles navigate the challenges that come their way. From misunderstandings to outside pressures, their love is put to the test time and again. Yet, their bond only deepens, proving that true love is worth fighting for. Against the backdrop of Serendipity Cove, with its stunning landscapes and close-knit community, the characters are not merely passive observers but active participants in each other's lives. The supporting cast, including a wise old innkeeper, a mischievous young boy, and a free-spirited artist, contribute to the rich tapestry of the story, offering guidance, humor, and a sense of belonging. As the story reaches its climax, Evelyn and Charles are faced with a heart-wrenching choice that could either lead to their ultimate happiness or shatter their dreams forever. The lines between destiny and free will blur, prompting them to confront their fears and make decisions that will shape their future. "Captured Hearts: A Tale of Love and Destiny" is a sweeping saga that reminds us that love has the power to heal, transform, and transcend even the greatest of challenges. It explores the idea that our choices, no matter how small, can have profound ripple effects on our lives and the lives of those around us. With its evocative prose, vivid descriptions, and unforgettable characters, this timeless love story captivates the reader's heart and leaves them believing in the magic of true love.

Purity a lowercase, clumsy, weak but determined angel suddenly volunteered to fight Abaddon, the 7th prince of hell who was pushed to earth to cause chaos on earth taking souls through deals Reborn but adopted into a family of riches and wealth faced bullying from her family but was favored by the head. Balancing her duties as an angel and the perfect granddaughter, It was purity’s job to take souls to heaven was it was time, both Abaddon and purity crossed paths couple of times but didn’t have any interaction. Roaming countries and countries for centuries Abaddon didn’t mind to purity until one night in an intense fight they were struck by lightning waking up they switched powers. ……………………………………… waking up to a burning sensation on her forehead purity whimpered, rubbing her head which just made the pain worse. looking around she wasn’t in her room, she was enveloped in an atmosphere of dark luxury.the air thick with leather and polished wood. candelabras with black candles cast flickering shadows on the walls adorned with intricate gold patterns. Massive, velvet- upholstered in deep burgundy and ebony wood chaise lounge dominated the space. A grand piano it’s ebony surface polished to mirror sheen sits silently in a corner. The bed which she layed on a grand king sized bed with black silk duvet and matching velvet pillows the wood on the head board was flawlessly carved with designs reminiscent of anique demon seal the bed positioned centrally purity jumped up seeing Abaddon staring at her with rage a halo atop his head his wings white but black in the very end and most importantly the cross tattoo on his wrist. “why are you with my halo?” purity stood on the bed attempting to take it but Abaddon threw her to the vanity table shattering the mirror “what did you do?!” Purity got up bleeding from her side she looked at herself in the shattered glass an upside down cross on her forehead her wings black, purity screamed “what did you do?!” she ran to punching his chest but Abaddon quickly raised her by the neck his grip tightening, purity couldn’t breathe the doors burst open Abaddon immediately dropped purity who gasped for air before looking up her voice still chocked “I can explain”

December 31, 2099, Earth. To many, it was the end of the world. Ragnarok, the Rapture, Hell on Earth. Whatever you called it, the Zeno War was brutal as it was swift. In one bloody year, 90% of humanity was wiped out by a race dubbed the "Zenolists". While our weapons were powerful, they couldn't hold a candle to the power these beings held. And to think there was an entire empire of races similar to them out there waiting to conquer... One thing was for certain, Humanity needed to evolve. Funnily enough, some of us already had. On each continent held a house holding immense but secret power. The Mojave of North America, Mictlantecuhtli of South America, Abildgaard of Europe, Zulfikar of Africa, Xia of Aisa, Neivörn of Antarctica, and last but not least, the Cain house of Australia. For centuries, each of these houses hid in the shadows, feigning normality. This choice possibly saved Earth, as the force sent by the Zenolists proved too little to stop their retaliation. Sadly, the population loss wasn't the worst part. The Cains fell, and Australia was completely annihilated. Now, nearly 46 years after the end of the Zeno War, Leonidas Mourningstar must fight his way to the top of humanity, clawing tooth and nail from the dregs of the new world. And if he fails? God help us all...

Her legs had barely stretched as she stood when the hairs on her neck stood on end. An instinctive sense of awareness creeping through her. It wasn’t the usual eerie silence of the room, it was something more. A presence loomed behind her, dark and predatory. “Thought you could steal from me?”…. Lycia, a thief who never knew she was anything more than human, was sent to steal a magical artifact from a mansion. She was captured by Cove, a cold-hearted Lycan alpha. She had to take up the quest to receive a pay to afford the medication of her guardian, Jack. She’s thrown into a dark world of secrets, where she learns she’s far from ordinary. Hidden powers stir within her, and the truth behind her parents' death comes crashing down. Trapped between revenge, betrayal, and a destiny she never asked for, Lycia must face her fears, fight for survival, and scream out for the power that calls to her. What dark secrets about her past will Lycia uncover as she delves deeper into the world of Lycans? Can she trust the ruthless alpha who captured her, or is he hiding his own deadly agenda? What will happen when her brother, the merciless werewolf hunter, learns of her true identity? Will Lycia embrace her hidden powers in time to stop the war brewing in the shadows or will her enemies destroy her before she can reclaim her destiny as the true Luna?

Eun-jae, a sharp-tongued, no-nonsense beta agent codenamed Helix, thought his biggest challenge this year would be surviving another day of chaotic missions—and maybe blowing out birthday candles in peace. But when he's thrust into a high-stakes operation involving Bes Ilay Karpov-Troitsky, a ruthless Russian arms dealer with ties to a deadly organization, his plans for a quiet reunion with his mom in Busan are obliterated. Armed with his razor-sharp instincts and biting wit, Eun-jae must navigate a labyrinth of betrayal, secrets, and danger as he dives into Moscow's criminal underbelly. Can Eun-jae stay one step ahead of the game, or will this mission mark his final act?

Gifted a candle that was said to make wishes come true, Alice Clemente burned it to find herself awake in a different world. She had wished for a life of adventure away from the city and its routine. With her wish granted, she was no longer in the 21st century and was instead lost in the middle of the Kingdom of Gladiolum, a place reminiscent of the 1800s. With luck, she soon gained connections to the rich and powerful of this new world— the nobility. However, how much of it was good and how much of it would eventually be detrimental? After all, mingling with royals not only meant extravagance and daily parties. It also meant warfare and death. Caught in the middle of the two princes and other nobles, Alice would soon have to face the battle between those two royal brothers― a fight for the throne. She had wished for adventure, after all, and she received just as such. Kept in the center of all this, would Alice be able to emerge from the rabbit hole unscathed? Or will the overwhelming troubles of love and war be too much for her to bear? *** “And what if you, too, are unable to help?” Alice threw the question back. “What if helping would risk everything?” Spade didn’t miss a beat. “You are everything.” “Don’t say things that you don’t mean,” Alice chided. “You’ll leave a trail of broken hearts.” “And would you believe me if I say that I have no intention of breaking yours?” Spade countered. “However, mine is yours to play with. Shatter it, fix it, do anything you desire. As long as it feels the warmth of your hand, I am content.” *** Image used in cover not mine.

Just before being summoned to another world, the protagonist’s summoning medium was secretly swapped by someone. As a result, he was not summoned as the "Holy King" but instead as the "Sex King." The magic he can use includes water magic in the form of lotion, fire magic as candle wax, and his summoned beasts include a wooden horse used for punishment… Branded as "vulgar," "useless," and "filthy," he is rejected, has his engagement annulled, and is ultimately exiled. However, the one who picks him up is a princess from a nation where the sex industry is legal. Using his modern knowledge, the protagonist begins rebuilding the nearly bankrupt sex kingdom. He introduces new fashion trends unknown to this medieval world and uses his authority as the Sex King to subjugate the girls. He then establishes modern sex service techniques. The protagonist's method of leveling up is through intimacy with his heroines (his concubine maids). The more intimate he gets, the stronger he becomes, and the wealthier the kingdom grows. However, the surrounding great powers will not stand idly by and allow a flourishing nation full of women. Thus, the flames of war are ignited. Utilizing his creativity, adaptability, and cunning, the protagonist repurposes his sex-related magic for military applications and overwhelms his enemies. As he gradually awakens to the path of conquest, he begins walking the road of a ruthless emperor. However, by his side is always a heroine, a celestial beauty who keeps his heart from straying too far…

In the distant and mysterious interstellar world, ancient civilizations have faded like a dying candle in the wind, with shattered ruins and lost traditions lingering only in vague historical records. In this era, Dream Forgers, with their powerful mental abilities, construct dreams and engage in fierce battles with dream beasts, becoming revered figures. They are the spiritual backbone of the interstellar world, weaving dreams that connect people to the distant echoes of past civilizations. Lily, a graduate student in dream studies from Earth, found her fate dramatically altered in an unexpected twist. She was transported into the world of an interstellar romance novel, only to become the tragic side character. Despite possessing mental power, her lack of imagination became her fatal flaw in her quest to become a Dream Forger. During the Dream Forger assessment battle, other competitors showcased incredible creativity, with dreams filled with dazzling starlight and wild beasts galloping through fantastical landscapes. However, Lily could only struggle within the confines of her own mind, ultimately being eliminated for her inability to craft dreams. But the story did not end there. After her elimination, Lily did not succumb to despair; instead, she awakened in the face of adversity. As the curtain rose on the interstellar dream streaming battle, a legendary journey that would the entire interstellar world began. During the Beast Summoning Exam, while other competitors summoned common interstellar pets to engage in standard battles with dream beasts, Lily closed her eyes and took a deep breath. In an instant, a gigantic flying beast appeared out of nowhere, casting a shadow that seemed to cover the entire sky. With its wings spread wide, it looked as though it could tear the universe apart, and with each beat, the winds and clouds shifted. The interstellar audience was left speechless, their gasps of amazement echoing through the air. Lily smiled gently, silently reciting an ancient verse: "The great roc rises with the wind, soaring to ninety thousand miles in a single day." Then, in the vast sea of stars, the mythical creatures Xuanwu and Tengshe emerged, their massive forms churning the waters as if telling the tales of ancient myths. Amidst the swirling clouds, the Azure Dragon weaved through them, sometimes summoning rain and clouds, nourishing the mysterious dream world. And upon an ancient phoenix tree, a phoenix sang loudly, surrounded by fierce flames, its rebirth through fire a magnificent sight that left all who watched in awe. The interstellar people had never witnessed such a strange and culturally rich dreamscape. For a moment, the entire interstellar network erupted in a frenzy of excitement.

Peter Grayson didn't know what his relationship with Leight is, if any. So, it's become the detectiv Leight's duty to woo his partner, solving cases and evade the killer out to get him.

“Yes" He grinned, his voice as smooth as sin. “Because that is among the fastest ways to drive a man nuts. And the noise that comes after that, the screaming that escapes her–they are a song, a hymn to desire. The body proximity, ahhh, the twin peaks dangling from the supple art, the writhing, the hard thrusts that will have them begging for more, the rounds they would devour over and over again, his big balls that ejaculates at the peak of a climax and the baby that comes after... in most cases. I think that is why they are scared.” He finished off, whispering the last part. ..... Aria’s life was simple; a medical student, a devoted christian and a future she could control—until the night it all fell apart. Tricked, she found herself saving a wounded man who shouldn’t exist. His presence stirred something primal within her, a pull she didn’t understand and a fear she couldn’t ignore. Bound to him by an invisible thread, she couldn’t escape the intensity of his gaze—or the heat of his touch. But nothing could prepare her for the danger that awaited. Forced to accompany him on a treacherous journey, Aria found herself thrust into the deadly politics of a kingdom ruled by a formidable king and his twin sons—one charming yet distant, the other cruelly intoxicating. Amid whispered secrets and simmering tensions, Aria becomes a pawn in a game far darker than she imagined. “You don’t get to decide my future,” she spat, her defiance flickering like a candle against his towering presence. The King’s lips curved into a slow, dangerous smile. “Your future was decided the moment you walked into my court, Aria. And you have no other place in the world except by my side.” Her pulse quickened as he stepped closer, the rich timbre of his voice rolling over her like a storm. “You will bear my mark, stand by my side, and serve as my queen. Do not mistake this for a choice—it’s an inevitability.” “I would rather die,” she shot back, her voice trembling as his hand tilted her chin to meet his piercing gaze. “Then you’ll die with my name on your lips,” he said, his thumb brushing against her jaw. “You belong to me, and not even death will change that.” The man she travels with hides a past that could shatter her resolve, the twins threaten to unravel her very being, and the king sees her as more than just an advisor—he sees her as a temptation he cannot have. As desire tangles with deception, Aria is drawn deeper into a world of forbidden touches and unspoken truths. In a tale of passion, betrayal, and dark secrets, Aria must fight for her life, her heart, and the truth—before everything she knows burns to ashes.

Alright, Bro, just hear me out. I’ve got something to tell you, and, uh... it’s a lot. You know how I’ve always been the odd one out in the Mustang family? The black sheep in a legendary line of knights and mages? Everyone in our family gets born with these crazy Rare, legendary, or even mythical pillars—proof of their greatness, right? But me? Nope. Voidborn. Nada. Zero. The one Mustang who can’t even light a candle with magic. But I didn’t give up! I mean, sure, people laughed at me. Sure, the family treated me like I was some kind of cosmic mistake. And yeah, maybe the bullies at school called me "magicless Louis." But I kept studying, searching for a way to fix myself. I didn’t care what it took—I was going to prove everyone wrong!. So, there I was, wandering around the Black Market—you know, the totally shady place Aunt Melissa would freak out about—and I found it: a ritual book. The solution. My chance to stop being Voidborn. I did the ritual in my dorm, thinking it would awaken my pillars. And guess what? It worked! ...Kind of. When I woke up, I felt it that power coursing through me like never before. But when I looked in the mirror, I realized something was... off. My hair was long, my voice was higher, and also became breathtakingly beautiful. that's right bro. I BECAME A WOMAN! So, now I’m stuck like this. But hey, at least I’ve got magic, right? Silver linings! I mean, sure, I might never be the ‘man’ my family wanted, but who cares? I’ve got pillars now, and I’m not letting anyone take that away from me. But Bro, I need your help. I don’t know what I should now. I don’t know how to handle all this power—or, y’know, this body. So, please, Bro, help me out. You’re the only one I can trust. ...And if you laugh, I swear I’ll hex your eyebrows off. Got it? ___________________________________ Hallo everyone!, I hope you will like this novel I came up with last night lol edit1: I said that from 2024 lol, now I fully planned the story!. but at the cost, my writing skills were getting rusty. The chapter 1 is old but great, very fitting so i decided to keep it, and the latest chapters are new. I apologize if my writing skills are bad. Right now i am trying to work hard and even become better at it, I will also be posting this story on RoyalRoad.com, https://www.royalroad.com/profile/637450 So yeah, that's it. I hope you all enjoy my story. now then, see ya!

Evangeline is left to stumble through the streets, rain pouring down on her and on the verge of death. Her stomach gapes open, spilling intestines into her arms, her blood slicking the stone steps of a roadside shrine. Her neck is slit, silencing her voice to nothing more than wheezes. The rain drips into her wounds as she collapses against the shrine's walls. Pure desperation drives her trembling hands to clasp together as she prays, not to a god she knows, but to anything that might listen. Her life ended that night, snuffed out like a candle. But her body stood once more. --- Warning • Female Protagonist (because some of you care for some reason)

In the vast and merciless cosmos, a young cultivator named Xing Yun embarks on a journey of self-discovery and enlightenment. He perceives the universe as a dark forest, filled with hidden dangers and relentless adversaries. Undeterred by the overwhelming darkness, Xing Yun resolves to light a small spark of hope, using his life as a candle to illuminate the path ahead. This spark, though minuscule, is resilient and enduring. It flickers with the determination of countless generations, each adding their own fuel to the flame. Like a fire that starts from a single blade of grass, it gradually consumes the undergrowth, then the shrubs, and finally the towering trees. The flame spreads uncontrollably, fueled by the unwavering spirit of those who came before. As the story unfolds, Xing Yun's journey takes him through the treacherous realms of the cosmos. He encounters ancient civilizations, mythical beasts, and formidable foes, each testing his resolve and pushing him to the brink of his capabilities. Yet, with each challenge he overcomes, his flame grows stronger, fueled by his unwavering will and unbreakable spirit. The novel delves into the themes of perseverance, the power of belief, and the indomitable human spirit. Xing Yun's journey is not just a physical one; it is a spiritual odyssey where he learns to harness the forces of the universe and unlock the secrets of the cosmos. His quest for enlightenment leads him to discover ancient artifacts, hidden knowledge, and the true meaning of his existence. As the spark within him continues to grow, it begins to resonate with the hearts of others. Fellow cultivators, inspired by Xing Yun's courage and determination, join him in his quest. Together, they form a beacon of hope in the dark forest of the universe, their collective flames merging into a mighty conflagration. In the climactic finale, Xing Yun's flame reaches its zenith. The once tiny spark has now become a raging inferno, illuminating the entire cosmos. The dark forest is no more; instead, it is bathed in the radiant glow of Xing Yun's eternal flame. His will and beliefs have transformed the universe, bringing light and hope to every corner. "Cosmic Ascension: The Eternal Flame" is a tale of transformation and triumph. It is a story that reminds us that even in the darkest of times, the smallest spark can ignite a revolution. Xing Yun's journey is a testament to the power of hope and the resilience of the human spirit, inspiring readers to believe in their own potential to light up the world.

Teen romance? Office Romance? Enemy to lovers? nahhh... I present to you, PRISON ROMANCE! This story is an entry for Romance Carnival contest. Please send me PS, GT and gifts. Life was going perfectly for Jasmine Paxton. One day, she flew out to where her mother originally came from, expecting to be welcomed by a shower of rose petals and confetti. But instead, she was welcomed by the greatest surprise in her life. Jasmine, who was on a vacation -- nay, who faced the death penalty, was now imprisoned in a foreign prison, awaiting her verdict. In prison, she found out about her boyfriend's betrayal, making her hope for freedom seem like a dream. Jasmine accepted her fate and got used to life in prison, which soon changed her. Unexpectedly, her candle of hope for freedom lit up, not from the help from the outside, but from the inside of the prison wall. And one of that came from Felix He, whom she mistook as her handsome ex-boss's secret boyfriend and the first person that put the cuffs on her! ***** This story is fictional. Instagram: aleeqac_books Tiktok: aleeqac_author Facebook: Aleeqa C Buy me a coffee! https://ko-fi.com/aleeqac

In the coastal town of **Sarween**, where the waves of the sea collide with the curse of suspended time, a legend unfolds about a man imprisoned in an endless loop of guilt and oblivion. Adham, the writer who turned his heart into a ledger of lies and ghosts, battles the demons of his memory through **stone towers** that rise from the belly of the sea like divine punishment. Here, where events are born from the womb of pain, **Yara** transforms from a lost daughter into a cosmic enigma: a child who vanishes on a crimson night, only to return as mathematical ciphers that pierce the fabric of reality. Her letters are not cries for help, but calls from parallel worlds mocking humanity’s attempts to grasp time. The **twenty towers**, numbered with the blood of victims, are not mere stone—they are open books bleeding with the wounds of a past rewriting itself. Each tower is a mirror reflecting Adham’s fractured selves: a terrified child, a guilty youth, a weary old man. The **scar above the heart** is but a fiery seal reminding him that the truth is a beast fiercer than any fiction. In this world, time is a poisoned loop: the sea spits out corpses bearing identical DNA, the **white shark** devours the dreams of the past, and shattered mirrors forge parallel universes where Yara does not die… but morphs into an idea haunting her creator. This tale is not a narrative, but a morbid dance between creator and creation. Adham, who believed writing would redeem him, discovers he authored his own prison with his hands: every sentence carved a scar, every chapter lit a candle in the darkness of his conscience. This novel is not about lost time, but about a being who builds his cage from falsified memories and battles mirrors reflecting his image as a crownless executioner. Here, in Sarween, the truth is not a victim… but a killer cloaked in martyrdom. Thus unfolds the legend of **Shards of Time**: like Narcissus gazing at his reflection in the river of memory, drinking from it until death. But here, the river is a sea that regurgitates the names of victims every night, and the mirrors do not reflect faces… they devour them.

Beyond the veil of mortal sight, where time itself doth falter and stars are but fleeting candles in an endless dark, there drifts a Presence. Vast beyond measure, ancient beyond memory, it wanders the cosmic void, untouched by the petty reckonings of men and gods alike. Yet even eternity, in all its dreadful splendor, is not without its curiosities. Thus, with but a whisper, a thought—a gentle stroke upon the loom of fate—It remakes the barren firmament. Where once lay naught but dust and silence, now burgeon worlds of wonder, rich with treasure and ripe for the plucking. Planets bloom with bounteous gifts, the heavens teem with hidden providence, and in the heart of one unassuming sphere, life stirs. Humanity awakens, none the wiser to the hand that shaped their fortune, to the architect unseen. And yet, as they toil and triumph, as they carve dominion from the void, a shadow lingers at the edge of thought. Too oft do they find the road paved smooth, too oft do their hands alight upon that which they did not sow. In whispers and in dreams, in fleeting glimpses betwixt wake and slumber, a question takes root—Are we alone? A few, cursed with sight keener than most, seek the hidden hand that pulls their strings. They peer into the dark, and the dark peers back—silent, patient, and amused. For It doth not govern, nor meddle, but merely watches... and waits. What fools these mortals be, who dance so blithely upon a stage set long before their time.

In the heart of a relentless Russian winter, truth is a fragile flame. Viktor, a reclusive writer burdened by failure and haunted by the voices of his past, retreats to a desolate cabin in a snowbound village. Armed with little more than ink, paper, and a candle—an heirloom of his late mother—he vows to compose a masterpiece that unravels the marrow of human existence. But as the blizzards rage outside, his blank pages echo the haunting void within. Salvation—or perhaps confrontation—arrives in the form of Anna, a widowed woodcutter with hands calloused by labor and eyes sharpened by survival. Her pragmatism clashes with Viktor’s obsession, igniting an uneasy exchange: she leaves wood at his door each morning, and he leaves pages of his manuscript in return—pages she burns unread. As the storm grows fiercer and shadows creep closer, Viktor’s work swells with ambition, but his certainty crumbles. The cabin becomes a crucible where fire and ice, truth and futility, creation and destruction battle for dominance. With his manuscript soaked in melted snow and his spirit stretched thin, Viktor must confront a harrowing question: is the act of creation enough to stave off the weight of despair? Lyrical, haunting, and deeply introspective, The Weight of Shadows is a meditation on the fragility of art, the resilience of the human spirit, and the fleeting warmth of connection amidst the cold.

As a princess who could not wield magic, Princess Daphne’s only value to her kingdom was her arranged marriage. The task was simple, but when Daphne was kidnapped and brought to the cold mountains of Vramid, she realized that she was in over her head. She had heard of these cursed mountains before― rocky terrain, freezing temperatures, and the land was ruled by a man feared by many within the continent. King Atticus Heinvres, the blood-thirsty ruler of the North. Even though she had never met him before, tales were spread of King Atticus’s ruthlessness. Some said he was a monster, others claimed he was the devil himself, but whatever the story was, everyone knew of the man who had powers beyond anyone’s imagination. He could topple armies and crumble nations with just one wave of his hand, aided by what others rumored to be a cursed obsidian ring. No one outside of Vramid had ever met the fearsome king before. Not until Daphne. However, upon meeting the formidable man, Daphne found out that the king might not really be the monster others had claimed him to be. In fact, what was hidden under that obsidian shield could just be a diamond in the rough. ― [Excerpt] “Now… where should I put you both?” he asked casually, not expecting a reply. “It’s regretful that I only have one chandelier.” “Underneath my bed? No, no, too dirty. My dust bunnies don’t deserve this,” Atticus mused to himself. “The mantlepiece? How about the vanity table? I suppose if I lop off one of your heads I could mount it over… Wife, which head do you want to stare at while you do your hair?” “Atticus!” Daphne screamed. “I don’t want any heads! Let them go.” “Fair enough.” Atticus shrugged, and flicked his fingers. There were two identical cracks as both necks snapped at once. Daphne gasped, horrified. This man, her husband, had just killed two men with a flick of his finger, as though he was snuffing out candles. “I told you to let them go!” Daphne cried out. “Yes, I let them go,” Atticus said. Then, his eyes darkened. “To receive divine judgment from the heavens.” ― Discord Server: https://discord.gg/7HAMK2bRYU Spin-off/Prequel: The Hidden King's Stolen Wife (WIP)

Michael thought a hike on the Appalachian Trail might clear his head, not turn his life upside down. Stumbling upon the Infinity Dungeon, he discovers a realm of magic—his ticket to a new life. But as Michael battles his way through the dungeon and gains magic [Skills], he realizes that the whole world is about to change forever. Other delvers with dangerous powers, hungry beasts, the awakening of old monsters. Dangers are everywhere. Friends are now enemies, abusing their power and even the Italian mob wants a slice of the pie. In a world where anyone can wield power, Michael knows he’s going to have to devise a way to get stronger. To deal with this he creates a megacorporation, and its Candle Light division is starting to look awfully similar to a certain foundation that deals with magical anomalies. LitRPG with lots of blue boxes, grounded in a real world that feels ever more dangerous, and a main character who will have to learn how to exploit his powers quickly, before events slip out of his grasp. The world is vast and full of dangers, after all, and magic only makes things worse.

"It’s not the people who claim they are evil you should worry about, it’s the ones that claim they are good". . . What would a modern-day earthling do if they suddenly open their eyes to find themselves in a cultivation world? Suffering from an incurable disease since young, Yang Chen’s life came to an end due to the malicious stratagems of his relatives. Life, youth, love, wealth, family, he got to enjoy nothing. Bitter at the injustice he suffered, Yang Chen's soul was reincarnated into a whole new world where immortals and divine beings weren’t just myths. This time, he vowed to live a whimsical, self-serving, materialistic life. But what’s this? His starting point was the lowest of the low, a slave that was at the mercy of the Zhang clan. Can this still be called living? Raising a cry in defiance against his destiny, what appeared before him was the Greedvil system. Heaven-Defying Battle Skills, Supreme Pills, Weapons, Armours... anything that Yang Chen wants, can be purchased from the shop. In return, all Yang Chen had to do was commit evil acts. The Greedvil System ran on mischief points, his actions determined the points he earned. The greater the degree of evil, the higher the points!!! Hehe… Now wasn’t that great? Even the heavens want him to become a villain. Equipped with a healthy body and a powerful system, what kind of storms would Yang Chen create? . . "What’s that, a heavenly constitution? I, your grandfather can buy dozens of them. Beauties? The more the merrier. Villains? Who can hold a candle against me?" This is the story of a villain who sets on a journey to reach the martial peak. He will stomp on all the heavenly sons and pick up beauties on his way. ------ Join our discord for Q&A and to chat with fellow members- https://discord.gg/bXexmSNeqn You can also support the novel on Patreon by simply copying the link below:- patreon.com/ViciousPepper.

Two lives are intertwined by an inexorable fate in a planet where ancient rivalries simmer under delicate alliances and secrets are buried behind millennia of shadows. Leek, the fearsome ruler of the V-clan, is a creature of both power and mystery. Even among his kind, he wears his immortality like armor, making every action with the intention of maintaining power. Despite his hard, authoritative attitude, he is tormented by glimpses of a lady he cannot identify. The mystery woman's dreams become more vivid, more intense. He wakes up one night in a cold sweat, his chamber dark. A shadow hangs in the corner, then vanishes as he lights a candle. An owl perches outside his window, blazing eyes riveted on him. It drops a piece of parchment before dissipating into the night. Leek’s blood runs cold. Who sent the note? Though the sender remains anonymous, Leek’s mind immediately goes to his rival, Kael, the ambitious heir of the Woo Lee clan. Kael has long sought to undermine him, and claiming the heiress would give him the leverage he needs to bring the V-clan to its knees.

"The Candle And The Boy" is a profound psychological drama that tells the story of Ren, a young man living in a reality intertwined between life and death. After facing a mysterious death, Ren begins to search for the truth behind his demise, uncovering painful secrets about his life and family, particularly his mother. Throughout his arduous psychological journey, he encounters "the man with the red face," who seems to lead him toward the truth. However, with every step Ren takes, the illusion he lives in becomes increasingly evident. The novel explores philosophical concepts of death, truth, salvation, and illusion, transcending the traditional boundaries between life and the afterlife. The story raises deep questions about the relationship between personal pain and the search for meaning, and how the past can manifest in frightening forms that compel us to confront deadly truths about ourselves and those we love.

Echoes of Ambition, is the journey of a little boy, Jayne who started from the lowest level of nothing believing in the word of his grandmother "that the candle of success will always shine on those who refuse to dress in the costume of failure". but one thing shattered all this greatest dream into many pieces in one day. what could this actually be??

In the quaint coastal town of Tidal Cove, Emily Mayfield's life is turned upside down when she discovers a cryptic message that suggests her parents' tragic death was not an accident. As she delves deeper into the mystery, she meets Ryan Thompson, a charming and mysterious stranger who is hiding secrets of his own. As Emily and Ryan work together to unravel the truth, they find themselves entangled in a web of deceit and conspiracy that threatens to destroy everything they hold dear. With the help of Ava, a enigmatic ally, and Lilith, a mysterious woman with a hidden agenda, they must navigate the treacherous undercurrents of Tidal Cove's elite and confront the dark forces that have haunted the town for generations. As the stakes grow higher, Emily and Ryan's relationship blossoms, but the danger that surrounds them threatens to tear them apart. Will they be able to uncover the truth and find love, or will the whispering tides of Tidal Cove's secrets sweep them away?

Emilia Brown thought she understood herself until she entered Raven's Cove, where shadows move and secrets simmer beneath the tides. Drawn to the gloomy and aggressive Luca Blackwood, she has no idea that her entrance has rekindled a terrifying prophecy linking her fate to the magical underworld. With dark forces stirring and betrayal lurking within, Emilia must embrace her untapped power or risk losing the man fate has destined her for and the land she never imagined calling home.

"Candles by design burn, and life by design ends. In the meantime doesn't it smell nice?" - Lola Viktor "Me personally, I never bust…” - Tyde Viktor "I have watched the heavens fall as a child. All of its splendor rained down on us and blessed us with its fertility. The demigods frequented my mothers tent, she was our village whore. I had too many siblings to count and none of us knew of our father. The village elders didn't know what to do with us so he made us follow the shepherds hunt, hoping we would die off on our own." - Dior Vain ************************************** [R18+] (For violence and profanity. I don't write lewd content unless it's for comedy)

The Raptors know how to heal, and the ambiguity can't be stopped! Qin Tian found that his beautiful wife actually had nine marriage books, and a group of powerful people wanted to rob him of his wife. On the night of the candles in the cave room, Qin Tian got the inheritance of Fuxi gossip, opened the eyes of the sky, and since then the dragon has crossed the river and crossed the world!