The Runic Alchemist - Chapter 17: Journey 1

In a world torn apart by rifts that release dangerous monsters, Espers—humans imbued with powerful abilities—serve as humanity's last line of defense. But the power of an Esper comes with a price. Overuse of their abilities leads to dangerous corruption, a force that can destroy them from the inside out. This is where Guides come in: individuals with the unique ability to calm the corruption within Espers and restore their balance.Rowan Mercer, an S-class Guide, is one of the best in his field, capable of stabilizing even the most dangerous Espers. He has worked quietly behind the scenes, helping those in need, but his life takes a dramatic turn when he is called to work with Lucian Vaughn, an S-class Esper whose immense power and unstable corruption levels make him a dangerous threat to himself and others.Lucian, a tall, stoic, and enigmatic figure, has long fought against the growing corruption within him. At first, his relationship with Rowan is purely professional—Rowan as his Guide, helping him to stay in control. However, as their interactions grow more frequent, their bond deepens in ways neither expected. What started as a simple duty soon turns into a complex relationship where power, trust, and vulnerability collide.As the world around them faces escalating threats from rifts, Rowan and Lucian must navigate not only their personal challenges but also the dangerous world of Espers and Guides. Their bond will be tested as they fight together against the corrupting forces that threaten them both.In Corrupted Bonds, survival isn’t just about battling monsters from the rifts—it's about fighting the darkness within themselves and finding a way to stay connected in a world that’s constantly pulling them apart.

Cliche. Another monster progression story. That was probably what you thought when you read the title of my story. And, I can't lie, for the most part, it probably is.But, what else am I supposed to do when I've been thrusted into a world that could kill me in an instant? There's nothing to do but to progress, to devour and evolve. You would do the same too.Such is the basis of a monster.Such is the right of any living being.So that's what I did. I ate, I killed and I hoarded anything I could get my big limbs on. Friendship, allies and love? There used to be a little god calling himself “Heaven's Equal” who spouted of such things, before I ate him. The world went pretty quiet after that.Follow my story. Read for yourself how I evolved from a little monster in a lake I thought was the ocean, all the way into the Titan Of Destruction.What To Expect:- A relatively quick progression story- Ruthless, I mean - Fang Yuag levels - of ruthless protagonist.- A system? that grows stronger along with the protagonist- Big Monsters Duking It Out, with minimal humans/beastmen/elves, etc. . .focus. Basically, monsterverse without annoying ass humans ruining the show.- Did I mention that the protagonist was pretty evil?

Ling Ran, a med school senior, begins to see the world like a game UI. He uses it to pave his way towards graduation, a residency, becoming the greatest doctor in the world… And finally getting a Transformer from his newbie packs? Maybe. We don’t know yet.

Nan Qiao became a fake heiress, despised by her adoptive parents, and was sent back to her biological parents.Overnight, Nan Qiao transformed from a ridiculed fake heiress of a wealthy family to the true heiress of the richest family.Her parents adore her, and her brother pampers her, leading a life everyone envies.Does Qiao Qiao want to study? She can choose any prestigious school!Is Qiao Qiao bored? She can play with any company!Does Qiao Qiao want to drive? She can pick any luxury car!Does Qiao Qiao want to shop? She can swipe the black card at will!Does Qiao Qiao have an engagement? That's not allowed!Rumor has it that the powerful CEO Li Yihan is violent and moody.How can darling Qiao Qiao be with such a beast of a man? The engagement must be canceled.Li Yihan: Who said that? Arrest anyone who tries to sabotage the marriage.People: Mr. Li, didn't we agree that you're not violent?Some said Nan Qiao is not worthy of being the richest heiress, just a pretty face.Later, the designer is her, the medical genius is her, the investment prodigy is her, and the Li Madam is even more her.Wait a minute, she doesn't want this title!Li Yihan: This title is a must!The fiancé who came to cancel the engagement regretted it and clung to her every day.Qiao Qiao is bullied? Li Yihan captures the person, beats them until they kneel, and apologize to her.Qiao Qiao wants to work? Li Yihan gives her ten companies to choose from.Qiao Qiao has no jewelry? Li Yihan buys a room full of jewelry for her.Qiao Qiao has no high fashion? Li Yihan delivers all the world's high fashion to her doorstep.Qiao Qiao is mocked for canceling the engagement? Li Yihan steps forward: I was the one who was dumped, you all shouldn't spread rumors!