Historical Fiction
Most Brutal Queens in History
From the queen who used birds to burn down an entire town to the woman who may have been the world's most prolific serial killer, today's show delves into the dark side of individuals who wielded great power. Let's begin with a chilling tale that involves eye-gouging because every ancient story of royalty seems to include someone losing their eyes. Our protagonist in this saga is Irene of Athens, born around 750.
By mara alsha2 years ago in Chapters
"Celestial Threads of Love"
In the celestial court of the Jade Emperor, where the divine and the ethereal converged, resided seven princesses. Among them, the youngest possessed a gift that set her apart—a remarkable ability to pluck clouds from the boundless sky and transform them into the softest, most exquisite robes. Her craftsmanship was unparalleled, with seams invisible even to the most discerning eye. Yet, in the midst of her celestial splendor, a yearning for new inspiration stirred within her.
By Alisa İnnokate2 years ago in Chapters
Court of Sorcerers — Part 2
Renout found a seat at the back of the Council meeting, in the area designated for the court magicians. They were expected to attend the meetings, in case their work was needed, but not to give input unless asked. He had arrived early and quickly poured himself a goblet of wine before emptying a vial of Elyscia’s magic into the pitcher.
By Clever&WTF2 years ago in Chapters
Court of Sorcerers
Elyscia rolled off the plush bed, donned a robe, and poured herself a goblet of water. After she had gulped down half the contents, she offered Nicolaus the rest. He took the goblet from her hand, but before he could take a sip, she gestured to stop him.
By Clever&WTF2 years ago in Chapters
Beauty and Death
Once in a distant time, in the depths of the underworld, a realm shrouded in shadows and obscurity, Hades, the deity overseeing the departed souls, ruled with an unyielding authority. The underworld was a realm of perpetual solemnity, where the spirits of the deceased wandered aimlessly in an eternal twilight.
By LyricCoffee2 years ago in Chapters
Porsche Man: The English Premier West Ham
Masquerading as Chelsea, singing the blues Porsche Man ventured towards Olympiacos and an impossible mission, show her image off to the athletic world. Upon arrival she seemed threatened that her talents were not going to be accepted at this level.
By Marc OBrien2 years ago in Chapters
Maya civilisation . Content Warning.
The city of Kakm stood as the preeminent city-state in the Maya lands, with unrivaled influence achieved through shrewd diplomacy and a well-organized military apparatus. Kakm had successfully contained its main rival, Tial, while new powers were emerging in both the West and East, and new dynasties were taking root. The late Classic era represents the pinnacle of Classic Maya culture, and during this time, many of the most renowned buildings, monuments, and works of art were crafted. We have a lot to cover, so let's begin. It's time to explore one of the most famous Maya cities during its heyday, one you're probably familiar with—Pelen. we saw it evolve into a regional power during the fourth and fifth centuries. Unfortunately, it found itself in the crosshairs of Kakm in 599 and 611, which couldn't have come at a worse time. The Pelen dynasty seemed to be in crisis. To understand this, we must rewind the clock to the early 6th century, at the end of the rule of Akal Monab I. Although future records give him unusual prominence, Akal Monab I's reign in the city was relatively uneventful. However, when he passed away in 524, there was a puzzling five-year gap before his successor, Kaan Hoy Chatam I, took the throne. Kaan Hoy Chatam I reigned for 36 years but was followed by a series of disappointingly short rulers. His immediate successor, Akal Monab II, who may have been the grandson of Akal Monab I, ruled for just five years before his brother or half-brother, Kaan Bahlam I, ascended and reigned for another 11 years. Kaan Bahlam I, however, left no viable male heir upon his death, leading Pelen to install its first queen, Lady Yol. In 583, she took the throne, possibly as the sister or daughter of Kaan Bahlam I. Her reign saw Kakm's attack in 599, and the inscriptions recount this event by stating that Pelen's trio of patron gods was dethroned. Whether this was a metaphorical or literal desecration remains uncertain. Lady Yol IAL passed away in 604, and her likely son, Aen Yol Mat, succeeded her. While he managed to exert control over Pelen's smaller neighbors, he couldn't prevent Kakm's second devastating attack in 611. Although Aen Yol Mat survived the onslaught, he died the following year, leaving Pelen in disarray. With no apparent heir, the Pen Dynasty plunged into chaos. In 613, a poignant lament is recorded in an inscription, expressing the loss of the Divine Lady and Divine Lord, noting the omission of certain crucial rituals. The ruler at this time was identified as A Muan Mat, a name with intriguing significance, as it is the same as the ancestral deity and founder of Pelen's trio of patron gods. This might represent an unconventional reign or an interim rule. Regardless, it was short-lived, as a new king, Kenich Khab Pakal, was crowned in 615. Kenich Khab Pakal was the 12-year-old son of Lady Sak Kauk, and there's speculation that Lady Sak Kauk might have been A Muan Mat, although this ruler's gender is considered male by most scholars, making that scenario unlikely. A striking tablet depicts Pakal's inauguration, with his mother presenting him with a crown since he wasn't immediately recognized as a Lord.It is likely that Lady Sak Kuk acted as Regent for her young son during the early years of his reign. We wonder if Pakal's rise to power was due to desperation or if the elites saw promise in him. Although things looked bleak in Palen, doubters of Kenich Kanab Pakal were proven wrong. Despite initial setbacks, Pakal became a pivotal ruler in Palen. In 628, the King of Pedris Negras attacked Palen, capturing a high-ranking noble. Pal's response was to rebuild Palen's prestige. Pedris Negras turned its attention to other cities under Katnich Yal AK I's rule, giving Pakal time to indulge his passion for building. Notable constructions included expanding the Olvidado, the main palace, and the iconic Temple of the Inscriptions. Between 659 and 663, Palen launched campaigns against neighboring cities, with the captives depicted on palace walls. Nunu'l Chak from Santa Elena, a former Palen vassal, was one noteworthy captive. Although some gains were temporary, they showcased Palen's resurgence. Pakal ruled for an astonishing 68 years, known for preserving Palen's independence. His tomb was discovered in 1949, containing famous works of Maya art, including his death mask. His reign was a triumph, leaving behind a restored city and a capable heir, Katnich Kaan Bahlam II. Katnich Kaan Bahlam II, Pakal's son, continued Palen's building spree, creating the Cross Group, including the Temple of the Cross, Temple of the Sun, and Temple of the Foliated Cross. He also engaged in conflicts with neighboring cities. In the wider Western Maya world, Palen's revival was significant. The region saw intense rivalries and conflicts. Tonina emerged as a rival to Palen. Pedris Negras.One figure celebrated Tal's new success, immortalizing the victory. Hasa Chang Kil delved into Tal's early history, drawing upon its ancient connection with the city of Teoton. By this time, Teoton had diminished significantly from its former imperial glory, but its role in Tal's history remained ingrained in memory. The commemorative date inscribed on that lentil marked precisely 256 years after the death of Spear Thrower Owl, showcasing the people of Tal's strong connection with their past. In his own depictions, Kasa Chang Kawi presented himself as a Teotiano warrior, following in the footsteps of his ancestors, inaugurating a new era of success for Tal. Despite Tal's rising fortunes, further advances were slow to materialize, as Kaki-M had worked diligently to establish alliances to counter Tal's power. Even though these alliances were beginning to weaken, they still held significant sway. Motou de San Jose and possibly Nashun, Tal was unable to penetrate the cities of Nanho, El Peru, and Dospelis to the East and South. However, these challenges did not deter Hasa Chang Kail, who embarked on a monumental construction effort, constructing several pyramids and complexes during his reign, rejuvenating Tal in a new light. The civic pride inspired by these new structures was palpable. When he passed away around 730, Tal had once again become a great power, though still in the process of finding its footing. The responsibility of continuing Tal's restoration now fell to his heir. On December 8, 734, Kasa Chang Kail's son, Yakin Chan Kail, ascended to the Tal throne. Yakin Chan Kail proved to be up for the challenge. Under his rule, Tal not only threw off the Kakm yoke, but also rekindled its imperial ambitions, settling old scores with Kakm. Celebrating a victory against Kakm in the early years of his reign, Yakin Chan Kail took an unfortunate Kakm captive, although the noble's identity remains obscured.
By Chabane Mustapha2 years ago in Chapters
Unveiling the Vatican Archives
ntroduction: Nestled within Vatican City's hallowed walls, the Vatican Archives are a mysterious repository of historical treasures, theological texts, and centuries-old secrets. Historians, scholars, and curious minds have been captivated by the archives' reputation for intrigue. In this article, we embark on a journey through time and faith to explore the depths of the Vatican Archives, uncovering their fascinating history and the remarkable treasures they hold.
By John Ryan Carandang2 years ago in Chapters
The Sculptor's Secret. Content Warning.
In the heart of a small, picturesque village, nestled between rolling hills and lush forests, there resided a gifted sculptor named Eleanor. She was known far and wide for her exceptional talent in breathing life into stone, transforming blocks of marble and granite into sculptures that spoke to the soul. However, beneath the surface of her artistic mastery lay a well-guarded secret, a story that would intertwine with the art she created.
By Rajesh kumar 2 years ago in Chapters
"Secrets of the Mystery Gully: Amelia's Uncommon Excursion into the Unexplored World"
Chapter 3: The Trials of Fire Elysia remained at the foot of a transcending mountain range known as the Coal Pinnacles. Its spiked pinnacles ventured high out of sight, shrouded in an ethereal fog that murmured of old mysteries. As indicated by the mysterious hints she had accumulated, it was here that she would confront her most memorable preliminary.
By home doctor2 years ago in Chapters
Porsche Man: The English Premier West Ham
Before the sun made an appearance, the weekend tabloid journalism teasers found their way onto Porsche Man’s porch. Due to not having anything on the morning or early afternoon agenda the tempting theatrical individual rested comfortably, enjoying the leisure time.
By Marc OBrien2 years ago in Chapters
