Extraordinary Genius - Chapter 12 – All the money is gone

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.

When the enigmatic and overpowered Kieran Drayke awakens in a foreign magical world after a sudden transmigration, he brings along a system unlike any this realm has ever known. The “Sovereign Architect System” doesn’t just make him invincible—it gives him the tools to build something far greater.But Kieran isn’t interested in world domination. At least, not in the usual way.Disillusioned by the world's surface-level glimmer and the rot beneath it, Kieran sets his sights on the forsaken—those discarded by society, lost in the shadows of nobility and corruption. From slums, war zones, and forgotten ruins, he gathers orphan girls of various races—elves, beastkin, humans, and more—each with untapped potential and pain behind their eyes.He trains them in secret. Guides them. Empowers them. Not as soldiers, but as a family. A hidden organization that operates behind the curtains, shaping the world while appearing as ordinary students at the prestigious Aetherion Magic Academy.Kieran himself? Just a carefree, slightly lazy transfer student with a penchant for sweets, sarcasm, and sneaking naps between classes—on the surface, at least.With a slow-burning plot that weaves magical worldbuilding, deep friendships, training arcs, casual comedy, and a cast of unforgettable girls who grow into queens of the unseen, Chronicles of the Hidden Crown explores what happens when an OP MC doesn’t conquer the world with brute force…But builds a legacy from its forgotten pieces.No betrayal. No forced drama. Just the steady rise of a secret kingdom in the shadows of a crumbling empire.

Hikaru found himself transported to the Pokémon world, but instead of becoming a Trainer, he was now a craftsman specializing in item creation.In an era where technology flourished and traditional craftsmanship faded, artisans were slowly becoming obsolete.However, Hikaru soon discovered something extraordinary—the items he crafted could grant Pokémon incredible enhancements and unique effects.Ancient Relic Slabs, Transparent Bells, Royal Crowns, Reins of Unity... He gradually became a renowned antique craftsman across multiple regions.Rainbow Wings, Life Orbs, Volcanic Keystone, Eviolite... He also embarked on journeys to collect rare materials, earning a reputation as a mystical traveler.Choice Scarves, Victory Armor, Purity Pendants, Shining Charms, Dream Balls...Even items from the Pokémon Trading Card Game could be crafted through his mysterious abilities. He became known as the Unbelievable Master Craftsman.Along his journey, he encountered companions just as unique and ambitious as himself—An Aegislash who sought to create an ideal kingdom.A Lilligant devoted to the cultivation of Berries.An Armarouge obsessed with the art of forging.A Magearna skilled in mechanical inventions.One day, Hikaru turned to Ash Ketchum, offering him a peculiar item.“Here, Ash. Try this.”He handed him a green die—a tool unlike anything seen before.A new adventure begins.