Katahane no Riku - Chapter 42.Ninety nine blessings and a single thorn

“Before the towers fell, before everything was consumed by darkness...”Leo Astralis whispered to himself while traversing through the rubble of the ancient structure.His body bore the scars of survival, bite marks that throbbed against the coarse, blood-stiffened fabric of his clothing.“..I wonder what the world was like.”After humanity failed to complete the Tower almost 700 years ago in time, it exploded, spreading monsters all over the word.Even the system, which blessed humans with power, had abandoned them. Or did it?[Run]A singular message urged Leo to escape, yet it was short lived as was he was caught like an animal in a trap.And just like an animal he lashed out until the very end, taking one of the captors to the grave with him.But as darkness closed in, the system spoke again.[One time Regression activated][Congratulations. You've activated the Heart of the System]

Kazuma and Masako are a loving married couple who run a successful indie game development studio from their cozy home. After leaving the corporate world behind, they poured their hearts into creating hit games like Mori Journey, Exaslia, and their biggest success yet, Mori Adventure. Despite their professional success, the real magic lies in their personal relationship—a mix of playful teasing, deep affection, and unwavering support.Through late-night coding marathons, romantic anniversaries, unexpected livestream mishaps, and wholesome surprises, Kazuma and Masako navigate the challenges of both game development and marriage. Kazuma is the steady, hardworking coder, while Masako is the lively, creative artist with a penchant for mischief and teasing her husband. Together, they bring out the best in each other, blending love and laughter into their daily lives.From heart-melting romantic moments to hilarious hijinks, their story captures the highs and lows of balancing love, work, and dreams. Whether they’re surprising each other with heartfelt gifts, overcoming obstacles in game launches, or simply sharing quiet moments together, Kazuma and Masako prove that life is truly a game best played with your partner by your side. Their journey is a heartwarming tale of love, passion, and the joy of building worlds—both virtual and real—together.

In a world where strength determines one’s future, William, an orphan with no extraordinary talents, faces a grim destiny—until a brutal attack leaves him clinging to life. Instead of death, he awakens to a mysterious and powerful entity lurking within his mind: the Shadow System, a game-like interface that promises him unimaginable power. But this power comes with dark secrets, and refusing it would mean his death. Forced into a pact with a voice that can hear his every thought, William must navigate a dangerous new reality where shadow abilities and celestial power collide. As he enters the prestigious military academy, his newfound abilities draw both allies and enemies, all while a deadly conspiracy brews in the shadows. With the odds stacked against him, William must unravel the mystery of the Shadow System and decide whether to embrace the darkness within—or be consumed by it. His journey from a bullied outcast to a potential god will challenge not just his survival, but his very humanity. Power always comes at a cost—will William be able to pay the price? “What am I?” William asked the system. The system’s voice echoed in his head, cold and indifferent. “You are nothing.”

I was sixteen when the gods abandoned me.The Blessing Ritual was supposed to grant me power, a divine gift to carve my future. Instead, I received nothing. No abilities. No hope. Just another nameless soul left to rot in a world ruled by strength.Fine. If the gods wouldn’t bless me, I’d make my own power.For ten years, I clawed my way forward, experimenting with forces no human should touch. I pushed too far—and it killed me.Then I woke up.Sixteen again. Back at the Ritual. But this time, something changed.Time bends at my will. Blood moves when I command it.The gods still won’t acknowledge me, but it doesn’t matter. This world isn’t fair, and I’ve stopped playing by its rules. Faith and Chaos clash in my veins, and I will use them both.They wanted a Chosen Hero, someone to dance to their tune.Well, too bad for them—I’ll carve my own fate.