Nigredo. Albedo. Citrinitas. Rubedo.

They are the four stages required for forging of the Philosopher's Stone from the raw energies of an alchemist's mind, body, and soul.

In the Azenar Empire, alchemists hold the reins of society. With salt, sulfur, and mercury, they manipulate the threads that hold reality together, causing supernatural feats that cannot be replicated by any Mundane. They have existed since time immemorial, pursuing their craft as they work their way through the four stages in the hopes of one day achieving immortality and unmatched power.

Ascion is one such alchemist, yet he descends from no illustrious lineage. With the war against the Eastern Kingdoms intensifying, First-Generation alchemists are deployed to the Camps and trained to fight on the front lines, but he has no desire to die. For three years, with his unique gift as a Metronome, he has evaded detection by the authorities, living day by day as a free man.

One costly mistake, however, is set to change the course of his life. If he is to avoid death, then he has no choice but to progress through the stages as quickly as he can.

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Inspired by Western fantasy, with a progression framework containing xianxia-like influences.