"Step into the world of Canes Venatici where the boundaries of science and mysticism blur and the fate of an entire system hangs on the discovery of a single truth."
In the distant reaches of the universe lies the Canes Venatici system, a collection of twelve planets forged in the wake of a cosmic collision between two star systems. But beneath the surface of this seemingly tranquil system, ancient forces are stirring, and the delicate balance of the worlds is about to be disrupted.
Zeylinja, a quiet and introspective woman born on the vibrant planet of Seraphiel, possesses powers that defy the very fabric of time and space. As she begins to unravel the secrets of her abilities, able to bend time, perceive the multiverse, and glimpse the hidden truths of existence, Zeylinja is thrust into a journey that will challenge her understanding of reality itself.
When the rare planetary alignment known as the Seven Nights of Umbrah draws near, Zeylinja's visions grow more intense. She uncovers fragments of a mysterious past, ancient entities responsible for the collapse of a forgotten universe, and hints of a powerful force that could once again threaten the fragile balance of the Canes Venatici system.
Guided by a blend of science and cosmic mysticism, Zeylinja's journey will take her across the twelve planets, where she must face powerful forces, unknown dangers, and the hidden consciousness that connects the very stars. Can Zeylinja unlock the secrets of the past to save the future, or will the mysteries of the Wormhole and the multiverse consume them all
Geoff and Naomi are dead, and they're depressed, but when Geoff's cat Bernie dies as well, they embark on a wild journey to find it in the underworld.
*****
When Geoff dies, alongside his girlfriend Naomi, they end up sharing an apartment in the Underworld as skeletons. But after a few years, Geoff starts suffering a mid-death crisis. What's the purpose of going through the motions as a skeleton if you can't really live? Then he gets word that his cat, Bernie, just died and he can collect him and bring him home! Geoff and Naomi hurry to get Bernie only to discover that, due to a clerical error, their cat has been lost. With the hunt for Bernie giving new purpose to Geoff's un-life, he and Naomi begin a quest to get back their cat. Battling skeleton pirates, climbing the sky ladder and facing off against the villain who took Bernie, Geoff is determined to find his purpose - or die a second time trying!
[[2018 Wattys Winner - The Originals]]
[[word count: 30,000-40,000 words]]