EffervescentElixir
The Forest in His Eyes

The Forest in His Eyes

2,551 392 42

"There's a forest in your eyes, Ansel."Ansel Bennett is 15, living up one last summer with his friends before they all go their separate ways. Hailing from a traditional town in Germany, not everyone in Ansel's group is as enamoured with the historic and frankly antiquated Quedlinburg and they seek escape into a modern world that is big enough to accept them. When Ansel uncovers a secret about his best friend and role model, Henry, it shatters the little serene pocket he had been living in and it's not long until he finds himself fleeing to his own paradise.Mt. Fierté, a wintry academy locked away on the side of a mountain. Ansel accepts a music scholarship there in the hopes of pursuing his true calling as a DJ. More revelations threaten to shatter everything he knows and long-buried feelings for the same sex resurface when new roommate Oscar enters the fray.Music will take him to the stars. If he can only hold onto them a little longer.Ansel's story is getting the love it deserves and beneath his elusive shades a forest lies.The first novel in the 'Faded Stars' Duology.…

Outcasts

Outcasts

2,431 127 9

"We're the gray area, angel. We're the pieces of the puzzle they don't know what to do with, the pieces that don't quite fit into their perfect little picture, so they choose to discard us, to keep their image untainted, but we can only be ignored for so long. Because eventually, whether they want to admit it or not, all of their black and white will bleed together anyway." ― J.M. DarhowerFour aimless souls. Four tales of redemption.Society has failed them. People have failed them. Ryder runs with no end in sight, but a boy might save him. Chelsea lives with a monster, but music isn't her only escape. Isaac seeks redemption, but a soul as black as his delights in the fire. Corin lost someone dear, but she also lost herself and fell so very far. Though touching sunlight, the lives of these young souls are marred by tragedy, by loneliness, and slipping through the cracks. They are outcasts, but that's not all they are. There is hope, even for the lonely hearts, the broken few.They are not alone.…

To the Beat of My Heart

To the Beat of My Heart

8,335 673 38

I'm dating a popstar. Pretty big, yeah. Too big, it turns out. I knew this life would bring its own drama. I just... Well, I guess I didn't think I would be the one to shatter everything.I guess I should go back a bit. Hi, my name's Fletcher. Er, sorry. I'm not so great at this. I'm pretty awful, actually. Uh, where was... Right. I'm twenty-two and I have-and I hope you won't think any differently of me-but I have Tourette's. See, it's this pretty irritating little thing that kind of defines so much about me. And also it doesn't. My actions define me, not some tics of a broken mind. It can get pretty bad, but I'm not alone. I've always had people at my back, otherwise, I think I'd have given up long ago. I consider myself a decent guy. I don't do drama, okay. But we're four guys. Four very different guys on a world tour and that's four beating hearts with their own reasons to beat a little slower. Or a little quicker.My boyfriend is Clay Hudson. You've probably heard of him. He had this familiar, yet killer story of overcoming pain and a nasty drug addiction. And then he became a popstar. I know, right. It's usually the other way around. But Clay's pretty backwards like that. And I love him despite all the scars, love him because I have always loved him. I don't think it's possible for us to lose each other. I hope.Clay hurt me once. I don't ever want to hurt him, but I've been thrust into a life I was never prepared for. Kai pisses me off every time he opens his mouth; Ansel drinks when the going gets rough, hiding God knows what secret, and maybe I think I'm hurting those closest to me with some secrets of my own.I am following in the footsteps of a legend, but I'm not leaving any footprints of my own. Music is everything to me now, but I am silenced by the soundwaves, and no one dances to the beat of my heart. So, will you?--The sequel to Finding the Pure Note--…

Autumn Leaves

Autumn Leaves

17,851 1,247 41

Summer blue on winter's white. A land of poetry, of deep greens and golds, reds and browns. A veritable autumn wonderland.Mt. Fierté Academy-just your typical boarding school, tucked away on a mountain. For Oscar Robertson, it's a new start. Just one he didn't sign up for.Shunned by his family, without friends, Oscar doubts his circumstances will truly change in a new country gripped by seemingly endless snow. But then Oscar meets the colourful and truly extraordinary people at the evergreen-swallowed boarding school-awesome people who show him his true worth. Ansel, his DJ roommate, womaniser and aloof music maniac. Cal, laidback to the extreme and never far from a cup of coffee, or some kernels of wisdom that comes from a life unravelling their identity. Jess, lost in the pages of a dozen novels, as much a delightful mystery as her books with the exceptionally bewildering names. Steph, who views the world through the lens of her camera, and sees what Oscar refuses to chase.And that something is Nick.Nick Gutiérrez, perfect on the outside: handsome, cool, hockey legend-yet a wild storm on the inside. Torn between two worlds, he better than anyone else understands Oscar, and it isn't much of a surprise that Oscar falls head over heels for him.Soon, Oscar doesn't want to leave this autumn escape, his new home, and despite the bullying and the crushing family pressure, he is determined to make it through, if only to face a summer with Nick at his side.…

A Watercolour World -Short Story-

A Watercolour World -Short Story-

407 41 2

Sunlight on snow. A golden shimmering atop a white brilliance.Two sets of footprints carve a path through the frozen heart of the forest.In a dream, no one can disturb you. You are left to your silences and your promises. This Friday, the first day of the summer holidays, Nick and Oscar were prepared to keep those promises.Here a kiss was a promise made only between two, and a kiss that was forever theirs in...A watercolour world.…

In Hell We Dance

In Hell We Dance

15,176 1,217 40

Where do all the demons play when the sun goes down? Hell, of course.Just... not the Hell you're thinking of. Isaac Parkinson is a man on the run, fleeing a past he desires no part of, and a city that wants him dead. A new city; new opportunities. Bunking out in an abandoned warehouse in the grey corners of an already grey city, he has two possessions to his name: a sleek silver revolver, and a necklace: the only tie to his previous life. To his mother.But it might fetch a hefty sum, if you know the right guy. If it boils down to selling your soul, Isaac only asks the price. Isaac stumbles onto Connor Robertson, a man thrust into a fortune he can't control, and Isaac reveals Connor's black heart. Turning this new development to his advantage, he seduces the young Connor into converting this dump into a makeshift nightclub. The catch? It's all a lie. A haven for the lost souls, a hangout to drink your sorrows away and enjoy the sweet bliss of a drug-fuelled escape, turning their pain into profit. This limbo between two worlds-the real world, and the world of fantasy: a Hell of its own. Only the lonely dwell here. Connor might just fit in at a place like this, yet he craves for a life well-lived, and escaping into the night has never been a long-term solution. Isaac wants to prove him otherwise, showing him the dangers, and delights of this unkempt world. Swept up in Isaac's charm, Connor looks past the darkness in his heart, and as Isaac's past catches up to him, and new threats emerge, Connor finds he is in way over his head. But the fight is not his alone. Corin Lowell, guardian of Hell, shadow in the cracks, and bright-eyed Aiden Griffin, challenge what Isaac holds true. As their black hearts are put on display, Connor has to decide if Isaac truly does love him, and can be saved from his destructive path, or if his soul really belongs in Hell to burn.…

Wild Hearts

Wild Hearts

137,839 5,702 32

Anxious. Alone. Afraid. Aiden Griffin didn't ask to be any of these things, but they encompass his every day, shaping his life, ruining relationships and widening the cracks, leaving behind a ravine. Aiden is content with isolation, lost in the woods, kicking stones in cemeteries, traversing the forgotten corners of a run-down city. Anywhere away from the words that sting like a knife twist to the heart. Shaped by the malice of cruel hearts around him, Aiden is often steeped in dark thoughts and even darker actions. His parents don't seem to trust him, and no one notices that the school's golden boy is actually Aiden's worst nightmare. That's when Ryder McCallum enters his life, the suave and confident older boy who faces life with a smile and a switchblade at his side. He challenges everything Aiden knows, encouraging him to be... wild. Yet despite Ryder's charms, Aiden is already too set in his forlorn path, and no one has yet to fully hold his smile. Ryder is determined to change that, and in the process, bring Aiden's inner wild heart out. An unlikely friendship is born, and as the boys face a slew of mad adventures, they'll discover more about themselves than they'd care to admit. When friendship becomes something more, Aiden is left chasing after a boy who disappears all too often, an enigma Aiden loves too deeply to ever let go.…

Finding the Pure Note

Finding the Pure Note

69,099 3,428 40

'When your breath becomes faint When your heart seems but quaint You'll know that touch of blue lips Upon bottle tips They say love is so pure Yet it isn't the cure For a soul that's lost in your eyes' You've heard it all before. The rebellious teenager who sings in a band and struggles with the woes of teen drama. They fight with their girlfriend and have a spat with their parents, and then it is all wrapped up by the end in a nice little bow. This isn't that kind of story. Clay Hudson is eighteen and is on the right course to go to the university his parents have chosen for him since he emerged from the womb. He has a girlfriend, Kaylee, and somewhere lost in that mix are his best friends: Fletcher who is ready to kick some ass with him, even if Clay is somewhat of a teacher's pet, and Chelsea, who is fighting her own battle, wanting to reclaim the friendship Clay's broken. Clay has pushed them from his life in favour of a night of wild highs and alcohol-fuelled adventures. The thing is, that life is a series of false thrills, and in the end, these adrenaline deceptions are distracting Clay from the things that truly matter in his life. Since he was little, Clay has dreamt of entertaining a crowd, singing his soul's notes to an audience that would love the pure bliss and magic that comes from music. But school is ending soon, his friends are almost lost to him, and Clay realises his life is a fanciful nightmare. With the weight of expectation crushing down on him, his dad's illness, and the feelings he harbours for Fletcher springing forth after a long period of burial, Clay has to cast aside the shackles of his superficial life and rediscover what inspires him in life, and who truly matters. Sounds pretty usual, right? But then again, No one ever said finding balance, the pure note Clay seeks would ever be easy. -Contains coarse language, some sexual content and scenes of an upsetting nature.…

Tales From Professor Layton: The Bow, the Scarf and the Oathbound Mask

Tales From Professor Layton: The Bow, the Scarf and the Oathbound Mask

2,213 84 10

"A true gentleman leaves no puzzle unsolved." Or in this instance, no story untold. Join me as I step once more into this beloved world, full of charming and memorable characters, to share a few stories that desired... No, demanded to be told. Here presents a collection of stories focusing on several characters from across the Layton universe. From Descole, to Hershel himself, of course, herein lies stories highlighting the puzzling, yet extraordinarily wonderful characters this game series has given us. No two stories are alike, and each one of them shall bring new life to these characters we cherish so dearly. A theme for these stories would be memories and emotions, and how simple items can harbour such strong emotional ties. Each character has something that means a great deal to them, for we infuse aspects and memories into simple objects and in that new life and meaning is born. Should we lose sight of that, it can change who we are. Yet all we need is a little reminder of our humanity. Of love and the bonds that hold us together. Keep us strong. So dive into a few tales from some characters you know and love deeply, and maybe some who will have a new light shone onto them. I guarantee a little something for everyone.…

Professor Layton and the Angel's Prophecy

Professor Layton and the Angel's Prophecy

27,090 815 56

The highly anticipated new adventure in GentleAaron's series. 'Angel's Prophecy' takes place two years after 'Love In All Adversities'."Doom to the thief, who steals lives, meddler of time. Doom to the curse against nature, the impossible man in the top hat. Doom to the gentleman and his apprentice. Doom to he, for he shall die first."The Professor and Luke, partners in crime. Friends for life. But what if that friendship is prophesised to end in tragedy?When a prophecy from a mysterious organisation known as the Angels is revealed which speaks of an end to the pair's bond, Layton will do anything to ensure this prophecy fails.However, the Angels are a force unlike any of which Layton has seen and he will need all the help he can get. Sofia and her family, Randall and Clive are but some of the friends who will help the Professor on his journey.And of course, Luke will share this journey. Even if it may indeed be his last.Plus, share in another adventure, one that took place not long after 'Love in All Adversities', as Hershel tackles the case mentioned to him by Luke at the end of 'Lost Future'. The events of this adventure have repercussions for the team now, and it is up to the Professor, Luke, and his friends to end this madness once and for all. They might need the help of a certain attorney...-Cover art by the super talented Saiklex.…

Professor Layton: Love In All Adversities

Professor Layton: Love In All Adversities

14,325 336 35

The sequel and final part of the Love In Memories two-parter. The heroes escape from the thrilling finale in 'Memories Of A Time Gone By', but the Heartbreaker's true plan is revealed and Layton and friends are helpless to stop it. How does the Heartbreaker know Claire? This and more will be answered as Hershel solves one last great mystery!WARNING:Contains spoilers for the following Professor Layton games: 'Pandora's/Diabolical Box', 'Lost/Unwound Future', 'Miracle Mask' and 'Last Specter'. If you have not finished those games yet then I suggest doing so before reading this story. But why wouldn't you? If you are reading this now then you most likely love the Layton games and want to finish the games. Or already have! If so, read on.…

Professor Layton and the Memories Of A Time Gone By

Professor Layton and the Memories Of A Time Gone By

19,190 552 20

Set after 'The Lost Future'/'Unwound Future', 'Professor Layton and the Memories Of A Time Gone By' explores the life of Hershel Layton after losing his loved one, Claire, and his apprentice: Luke Triton. With his emotions threatening to consume him, he tries to live life normally, and put on a smile. After all, that's what a gentleman does.But what happens when an old friend comes calling? Can Hershel find it in himself to solve another mystery?The first part in the thrilling 'Love In Memories" Two-parter!WARNING:Contains spoilers for the following Professor Layton games: 'Pandora's/Diabolical Box', 'Lost/Unwound Future' and 'Miracle Mask'. While a detail from 'Azran Legacy' is mentioned, it is not considered a major spoiler.If you have not finished those games yet then I suggest doing so before reading this story. But why wouldn't you? If you are reading this now then you most likely love the Layton games and want to finish them. Or already have! If so, read on.…

The Moon's Tear

The Moon's Tear

373 13 6

"Reeling from the latest hit, the bruise forming as surely as the sun will rise, I felt my tears had run their course for the night. It ached beyond compare to whimper and I felt ready to collapse with a mixture of pain, exhaustion and despair. Only one thing kept me going, and that was the game. It was a fascinating thing. A world so real, and despite the looming threat of the moon in the sky, ready to destroy the world of Termina, it still felt a safer place to be than in the real world."Inspired by the Ben Drowned Creepypasta by Matt, or Jadusable, my story aims to give the brief, yet tragic snapshot of Ben’s final moments. Of the evil inside humans, and of the mysterious nature of the world, and justice. Listen now to the tale of innocence and its death.A note: For those who haven't read the Ben Drowned Creepypasta, it is suggested you do that before reading this story. However, one may read this story and be interested to know 'what happens next' in the story. While Majora's Mask is referenced, and a core part of both stories, one does not need to have extensive knowledge of the game to read my story.This was made for a friend, though posted here when it became bigger than I intended it to be. Read ahead for a tragic and heart-pounding tale...…

The Legend of Zelda: A Hero's Legacy

The Legend of Zelda: A Hero's Legacy

5,993 189 11

The legend of the hero, Link, the Goddess reborn, Zelda, and evil reincarnate, Ganon has been ingrained in the history of Hyrule from its very inception. Link, a young boy clad in green, is always destined to vanquish evil and save Hyrule, however, what if Link was betrayed by those he called allies?Before Hyrule prospered, before Skyloft was created, a hero lived in the land of Hylia, and though his deeds earned him legendary status amongst the peoples of Hylia, there were those who resented the hero. Framed for a crime he did not commit, the young man was cast in chains, forever to be locked away.That is, until the traitor's plot was uncovered. However, years had passed as the hero rotted away in a murky cellar. Could he truly forgive the people their sins? Could he accept their offer to save them once more from the encroaching armies of darkness? Could he take on that mantle once more and be the hero he had forged himself as?Or would he leave them to burn...?…

In Deep Water

In Deep Water

796 78 22

(An original character spin-off story of 'Professor Layton: Memories of A Time Gone By' and 'Professor Layton: Love In All Adversities'. Note: This is an alternate reality story, non-canon with the events of the Layton series, as actions in this are too extreme for Layton's standards.)Sofia Marauder is fiercely dedicated to her work.She dreamed of marrying the perfect man, raising a family, but she also craves adventure. That life of adventure eventually leads her to joining the Police force. She rose in the ranks, her prowess impressing many, but what no one realised is that the reason for her complete dedication was a lack of family to call her own.She finds the position dull and soon takes a leave of absence to seek out a better life. What she begins is a path of destruction that will soon come back to haunt her.What will happen when Sofia finds herself back in deep water?…