MTL - Comeback 1992 - Chapter 1236 alternately

In a world where power defines worth and survival is a privilege earned through strength, Ronan was just another broken soul—bullied, beaten, and forgotten.Until he snapped.[System Activated][You have acquired an S-Class Ability: Starflame][Extreme rage and deep-seated hatred detected][You have obtained the unique skill: Devil’s Covenant]Once a victim, Ronan begins to rise—with a system by his side that grants him power through every action.When he cooks:[Skill Acquired: Home Cook]When he reads:[Skill Acquired: Speed Reading]When he fights:[Skill Acquired: Vital Strike]And these skills?They evolve.[Skill Devil's Covenant has upgraded into Devil's Divine Judgement][Skill Speed Reading has upgraded into Hyper Comprehension][Skill Energy Slash has upgraded into Demonic Slash]Every moment, every breath, every choice brings him closer to power.A hero, or a villain?He stands among them.

“After every fire, ants survive.”

…

Mysterious anomalous biological metals have polluted the world, and the world has undergone tremendous changes. Metal sickness is like a key that opens the door to evolution. Under the tide of evolution, there are no innocents.

The choice is up to you, do you want to be the surviving ants after the fire, or do you want to risk your life, step on the glorious long steps to the gods, and glimpse the supreme glory of the mother goddess?

…

Touch the totem in your heart, follow the inspiration, and step on the long steps of ascending to God:

[Amphibians] → [Atlantic Glory] → [Ningen]…

[Eight Arms] → [Nightmare in the Sea] → [Deep Divers]…

[Eagle Eye] → [Owl Ghost of the Night] → [Jersey Demon]…

[Living Dead] → [Grave Digger] → [Death Ferryman]…

…

“On that day, the world was polluted, and I was the source of pollution. Human desires are endless, desire is the best food on the way to evolution, and I am the embodiment of desire.”

– Joe Tour.

- Description from novelbuddy

Leon and his father, Artorias, are the last remaining scions of a once powerful and illustrious family of lightning mages. After barely surviving an attack that destroyed their home fifteen years ago, they now live in the dangerous Northern Vales, a desolate wilderness far away from civilization. But those who want them dead are strong, patient, and relentless, and it is only a matter of time before they find the two they seek...