Chronicles of Vearth - Chapter 9: The Cost of Mercy

Empire of the Ring is a Korean modern fantasy epic adventure novel that sets in the nations of the Caucasus mountain range which separates Europe and Asia. The nations of Caucasus are regions of many conflicts over territories, ethnicities, and religions. The story begins as Lee Youngho, a warm-hearted Korean merchandiser, takes a business trip to a disputed territory of the Caucasus nations to sell Korean unmanned security systems only to get misconstrued as a spy and caught by Armenian militia. Youngho eventually gets involved with the militia and CIA to help out people of the regions from conflicts and works toward a birth of a new empire in Caucasus.

Lane Allen, an A-rank Guide, got injured on an emergency mission suppressing a dungeon break, and perished in his almost-lover’s arms.As the remaining members of his team continued to fight for their lives, in a fancy apartment in a distant part of the city, a young man opened his eyes.“Phew… That hurt like hell…”“It’s a bit of a shame to switch so soon… But I guess it is what it is.”“Anyway, who should I become next?”Actually, Lane Allen was not a Guide, but rather an Esper with a mysterious Plunder ability! It allowed him to possess other people’s bodies, and steal their awakened abilities. Keeping his real body safe, Lane could enjoy life to the fullest, constantly swapping identities, and doing whatever he wanted without ever worrying about the consequences! How great was that?Except…Damien Lennox grabbed Lane’s arm, and pressed him against the wall, his clear green eyes staring down at Lane intently, as if he could see right through him. “There’s no one else whose guidance feels so harsh and chaotic, yet pleasing at the same time.”It seems that Damien was somehow able to recognize Lane even after switching identities, and is unwilling to let him go?

Jeff Anzon, a young man who had just turned 18, was instructed by his father to inherit their family's fortune. He was stunned by this news since what was he going to inherit - their old wooden house? He didn't argue and decided to go back home since he missed them.But a huge problem occurred when he went to the airport and boarded the plane. During the flight, a weird phenomenon happened. Even though it was a bright and sunny day, suddenly it turned stormy, dark, and rainy. As the plane crashed to an uncharted island, Jeff found himself stuck on this island.So, what should he do? Of course, move on and build shelter. Luckily a suitcase floated before him, and he saw an axe inside. As he chopped a tree, he was stunned by the sudden occurrence.

Ye Sichen, a well-known singer with perfect appearance, is also a father of two kids. In the outside world, he is a charming star who cares about his fans and people in need. At his home, he is a lovely father and also a considerate master. A man with his fortune and statue, what bothers him so much?