The Desolate Era (Web Novel) - Book 5, Chapter 22 - Two More Remaining

After being betrayed and killed by his own brother, 17-year-old orphan Elias Black is given a second chance—by a mysterious, demonic entity. Reborn with the “Devil’s System,” he must now collect souls, gain abilities, and exact revenge on those who ruined him.But each power comes with a cost—and the devil never makes a deal without expecting something in return.As Elias grows stronger, unlocking deadly skills and forming uneasy alliances, he faces an even darker truth: his rebirth is part of a much bigger, bloodier plan.

This novel is also known as Gu Daoist Master

Humans are clever in tens of thousands of ways, Gu are the true refined essences of Heaven and Earth.

The Three Temples are unrighteous, the demon is reborn.

Former days are but an old dream, an identical name is made anew.

A story of a time traveler who keeps on being reborn.

A unique world that grows, cultivates, and uses Gu.

The Spring and Autumn Cicada, the Venomous Moonlight Gu, the Wine Insect, All-Encompassing Golden Light Insect, Slender Black Hair Gu, Gu of Hope…

And a great demon of the world that does exactly as his heart pleases!

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*Gu (蛊) referred to poisonous insects in various cultures in South China while in folklore Gu spirits could transform into all kinds of species.

- Description from Novelupdates

In a world where magic rules and human nations fight to survive, a 14-year-old stowaway finds himself thrust onto the frontlines of war. With no allegiance but to his own cold logic, Lugh is forced to navigate battlefields of steel, sorcery, and shadows. What begins as an escape soon becomes something far greater—whether he wills it or not.Gunmage – When spell and steel collide, a new kind of warrior is born.

On his 20th birthday, Tyson’s life took a drastic turn when a mysterious Meta-bot chooses him, granting him a powerful armor and thrusting him into a battle far bigger than himself.Now as a Ranger, he joins the fight against the Rogues while mentally prepares for the deadly tournament—the only way to earn years for Earth’s survival.The battles inside Tournaments always broadcasted live while warriors risked everything for Earths sake and for their families sake.Now, Tyson must navigate his fractured ties with his adopted brother while falling in love with the most beautiful girl from his academy, who turns out to be the former General's daughter.Will he take responsibility and prove that he is worthy of the Roger family name, or will he crumble beneath the weight of expectations before time runs out?------This novel is a blend of sci-fi and fantasy, featuring a 'weak to strong' progression. My focus is heavily on character development, so if you're looking for a any regular story then this novel might not be for you!Tags: Action, Adventure, War & Politics, Tournament, Fantasy, Romance, Gore, Death, Brotherhood, Alliances, Dungeons & Maps, Weak to Strong, Sci-Fi x Fantasy, Character Growth, Power Progression, Mecha Battles, Revenge & Redemption, High-Stakes Survival, Emotional Depth, Betrayal.