Chapter 3 — “Return to Silverleaf”

Scene 1: Back to Civilization
Morning unfurled over the Silverwood like a long-awaited system reboot finally completing its intricate update. The sun, peeking through billowing tendrils of mist, cast a golden hue over the ancient trees, their leaves shimmering like jewels in the amber light. For once, the usual chaos of flickering lights, sudden explosions, and garbled screams was absent, creating an atmosphere that felt almost surreal in its tranquility.

The Comfort Gurl Part 2

My case worker, Dave Collins, arrived at 3 pm. Within 10 minutes, I was on my knees in front of him.

Will Scott was only ten when his life changed forever. His family were poor farmers and were always looking for ways to improve their fortunes. Luckily, Will had begun to show some talent for singing. In particular, his high voice made him particularly valuable. This is it, his parents thought. Their ticket out of their meager lives. Unfortunately, they knew puberty would soon come along and ruin his perfect, angelic voice. As a deep-voiced man, he would still be a talented singer, but he wouldn't be as popular.

The Rave Girls’ circle is never broken. It has claimed dancers for centuries—and will for centuries more.

Prologue: Long Before the Neon
Many centuries before the vibrant glow of glow sticks lit up the night, before the pulsing rhythms of bass music filled the air, and long before the vast warehouses became settings for unforgettable gatherings—there existed the timeless circle.

The traffic was still awful in London, even with half the population gone. I swore as I tried to change lanes to turn off the dual carriageway. The asshole who shot into the gap from behind put his hand out the window and mimed the wanker sign. Then, when he saw my face and my long blond hair, he almost crashed into the car in front. He gaped at me. Seeing a woman was so rare nowadays, it often had that effect on men.

Prelude: The Rise of Lián Xuě

They whispered her name in hushed tones long before she ascended to the throne, a name that danced on the lips of those who dreamed of power and destiny. Lián Xuě (蓮雪), the Lotus Snow, evoked images of serene beauty and ethereal grace, a rare bloom untouched by the harshness of the world.

Chapter 5: Pride

The moment the warm glow of light enveloped me and my vision gradually sharpened, I was greeted by a cascade of intoxicating sensations: the sultry warmth of the air, a heady blend of floral perfumes, and the vibrant hum of animated voices. I had returned to our grand hall—a magnificent space awash in golden candlelight, where the flickering flames danced along the walls, casting playful shadows. Velvet pillows, luxurious and inviting, lay scattered around, while silk-draped columns towered majestically, their rich fabric flowing like water.