Thank you for reading Apostles: Matters of the Heart. Before we begin, I want to be fully transparent about two things: how this story was created and the topics it contains.
AI-Assisted Writing Disclosure
This story was written and developed by me, Zachary Fleming.
However, as part of my writing process, I used AI tools to help draft certain scenes, brainstorm options, and overcome writer's block.
All outlines, story decisions, emotional beats, worldbuilding, character arcs, and final edits are my own.
Whenever AI generated text, I reviewed, rewrote, merged, and reshaped it extensively to match my voice, my intentions, and the vision of the Vrontier Universe.
AI assisted me —
but it did not author this story.
Content & Trigger Warnings
Matters of the Heart deals with heavy themes and real-world issues, including:
Human trafficking
Child endangerment
Emotional manipulation and coercion
Violence and physical harm
Trauma, anxiety, and guilt
Abusive family dynamics
Self-worth struggles and inner demons (symbolic and literal)
Depression
Self-harm & suicide
Mental Health
I handle these topics with seriousness, empathy, and intention.
If any of these themes are sensitive for you, please read at your own discretion and take breaks whenever you need.
The heart of this story is about:
healing, accountability, redemption, and the courage to break cycles of harm.
A Note to You
This universe means a great deal to me.
It grew alongside me — through painful years, personal growth, and the long journey toward becoming someone better than I used to be.
Thank you for giving this story a chance.
Thank you for your time, your trust, and your heart.
I hope the Apostles' journey resonates with you in some way.
— Zachary Fleming