Kyoukai Senjou no Horizon - Volume 8A, Chapter 12: Partial Joiner in the Lamplight

Religious and cultural schisms wreak havoc on its internal politics, while revolutions are brewing in neighboring kingdoms. The aristocratic houses play endless power games amongst themselves, and the Emperor desperately abuses what little influence he has left to keep his rivals down.Amidst all of this, Arnold von Hohenfels, first son of the Margrave of Hohenfels, finds himself in the unfortunate position of having to attend the Imperial Academy, a notorious battleground of wits and brawn for ambitious young nobles.Armed with a magical gift that is as much a blessing as it is a curse, he must learn to navigate the treacherous waters of aristocratic entanglements. In the name of his family’s ambition, he must represent House Hohenfels' interests in this microcosm of Imperial politics, deal with his formidable enemies, form alliances of his own, and somehow keep his brash cousin Friedrich out of trouble.Frankly, he would much rather be anywhere else.

Plot Summary: This novel combines the popular “villainess” genre with the contemporary concept of VTubing, where the protagonist, a typical villainess character, becomes a VTuber—an online persona using a digital avatar. As she navigates her dual life, her influence extends beyond the virtual world, leading to increasingly violent and chaotic consequences in reality. The story delves into the psychological impact of living a double life and explores themes of power, manipulation, and the dark side of internet fame.Why Read It: The novel offers a fresh and thrilling take on the villainess trope by incorporating modern digital culture elements. It’s particularly appealing to readers who enjoy stories that explore the darker aspects of fame and influence, with a unique blend of fantasy and real-world issues. The narrative's intense and sometimes graphic nature sets it apart from more conventional stories in the genre, making it a compelling read for those looking for something different.

Noir, third son of a “beggar noble,” lost his job and was at a loss, but fortune struck just as he was contemplating becoming an adventurer.

“Titus Zane, since you've done it, you have to bear the consequences!”At the engagement banquet of childhood sweethearts, Titus Zane is drunk.Sitting on the fourth-floor viewing platform, watching the man approaching step by step, she says, Nathan Moore, let's make a deal. If I jump from here and don't die, then let me go...Fine, his emotionless response was a single word, displaying his ruthlessness.Titus Zane smiled, the curve of her lips beautifully tragic and dazzling, slowly spreading her arms, her body leaning backward, leaving only an empty wine glass and a woman's shoe on the platform.Later, someone tells Titus Zane that the mother she trusted most was not her biological mother but a mistress who usurped the position, and the murderer of her biological mother... When the secret is revealed, Titus Zane discovers that her mother's kindness was merely a ploy to obtain her healthy heart...Note: The main characters in this story are emotionally and physically pure. It's a story of torment followed by love, feel free to dive in.