Thirstfall - Memory of a Returnee - Chapter 2: Condolences

Princess Leah wrote a suicide note ahead of her wedding.

“He” was originally a weak and pitiful “sissy”. Once reborn, he became an ancient martial arts genius with both medicine and poison. The national male god.

Don’t touch anyone who belongs to her, and she will hold what is not her, and she will never be merciless when she abuses scum and face.

He is a business genius who covers the sky with one hand in Huaguo. He has a dark belly and is decisive in killing. He is the only one who turns into a loyal dog in front of her.

She kills, he sets fire. She poisoned, he silenced.

One day, the pampered and lawless Lu Xingchen said in disgust, “Brother, they all say you are my dog.”

- Description from novelbuddy

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.

Leon’s life was one of hardship: orphaned young, drafted into the army at 16-17, and shattered by gambling after returning to civilian life.When all seemed lost, his fate shifted.[SSS-Rank Kingdom-Building System Activated][Status: Basic Functions Active][Potential Unlocked: 0%]Initially, the system provided only minor aid in a medieval world dominated by strength and cunning. But Leon’s ambition fueled its evolution.Armed with military experience, a sharp mind, and a system bridging worlds, Leon sets out to dismantle the existing empire and forge his own, rising from a wanderer to a kingdom builder who reshapes the world.---Tags: Harem / R18 / World Building / Kingdom Building / System / Modern Knowledge / Empire Building / Strategy / Manipulation / Political Intrigue / Power Struggle / Ambition / Adventure