We've got an amnesiac vampire who can only seem to remember the love of his life and his nerdy pastimes, and all the trouble she brought him. Thieving no good Wererats, sociopathic vampires, cults, gangs, torture and a whole list of things he may have been better off forgetting. Join him as he attempts to retrace his steps and figure out how ended up staked in a burning building with no memory and no girlfriend, which might be for the best.... more>>

Have you ever of heard of vampires? What about werewolves? Orcs, Elves, Goblins, and so on? What if I told you they all lived among us, we just can't see them. We aren't all so different really. Sure, we all have different kinds of food, art, music, and even magic; but we all bleed when we get hurt. Exsanguinate is an anthology series made up of different stories from different parts of the world. Orcs locked in a blood feud, demons killing for power, amnesiac vampires, drug addicted werewolves. One thing connects all of these stories, all of us, blood. We all bleed. Pick a book, and dive in. <<less

Disfigured since infancy by a lethal poison, Jasper is the young master of the wealthiest merchant in the kingdom. However, he lost everything to the scheming environment. With revenge in mind, he will strive to be as strong as possible and as wealthy as his late father. Eventually, he will try his best to build his kingdom.... more>>

Along with his game-like system, he will discover a world he didn’t know existed.

What to Expect:

Weak to Strong MC: He’ll take the merchant path before truly beginning his martial art journey.

RPG System: The system is considered ad AI in an armbrace which provides a game-like interface that guides and aids his progression. The system will be humorous in early chapters but will become serious around Chapter 30.

Business & Schemes: Expect clever plots and economic maneuvering.

Low-Key Start → High-Key Rise: The protagonist begins slightly discreet but eventually becomes a major force.

Strong Subordinates: Allies matter—the world doesn’t revolve solely around the MC. However, betreyal is something to be wary of.

Dangerous Villains: Intelligent, cunning antagonists who challenge the MC.

Building kingdom: MC will build his own kingdom later on.

World of Chaos: Monsters, dungeons, martial arts, and shifting power dynamics—kingdoms fall, sects rise, and the world evolves with each major event.

Romance: No harem, probably (Still not certain but that's what I'm planing for the moment.) <<less

Superheroes are often seen in comics, mangas, or films. They usually represent symbols of justice, pride, and power. But in this world… heroes are real.... more>> They live among us. Some save lives from the shadows, others have become public icons. But behind the smiles, there are wounds. Behind the suits, truths we choose to ignore. Because in this world, heroes aren’t always what they seem. And sometimes… they are the most dangerous ones.
Follow the story of Kaito Nanami, the hero who never die.
A boy forgotten by all silent, unpredictable, and broken. His methods are far from the usual hero code, but his cold, strategic mind makes him a formidable enemy.
In a world that’s falling apart, where powers divide more than they unite, Kaito always returns to finish what he started. <<less

Alex, a veteran soldier, meets an unexpected end on the battlefield.... more>>

But instead of the final rest, he finds himself reborn into a new world—the magical realm of Harry Potter.

Now a young boy, Alex is born into a Muggle family.

Yet, despite his non-magical origins, his disciplined training and fierce determination uncover a rare, powerful talent for magic.

With a world of spells, wands, and ancient secrets ahead of him, Alex will need every bit of his skill to face the growing darkness led by Voldemort.

It’s a time before Harry Potter’s birth; James and Lily Potter are still alive.

Join Alex’s journey as he navigates his way through Hogwarts, learns the mysteries of magic, and rises to face the deadly challenges that await, determined to become one of the greatest wizards in history.

If you want to support me (up to 50 advance Chapter)
patreon.com/SwordmanCarryNuke
ko-fi.com/swordmancarrynuke <<less

After an unexpected night of passion with her best friend, Amara is worried about losing his friendship. However, when an attempt to clear the air leads to a repeat performance, the two discover that she's actually a succubus! Together, they'll have to navigate her slow transformation from mundane college student to sex-craved demonic horror.... more>>

Life on campus, however, is only growing more complex. Amara isn't the only supernatural mystery lurking in the shadows, and not everyone is happy with a simple romp under the covers. Why are there mysterious magic circles hidden across campus? Who is the holy warrior intent on hunting her down?

It's up to Amara to try and figure out her new abilities before the world decides her future for her. It'll be tough, but things are bound to be complicated when you're Suddenly A Succubus!

Authors Note: The Girl's Love in this story is a slow burn. Smut in early chapters is more often between the female MC and her male best friend. <<less

What if a fantasy world had a system, what if that system owed a favor to an Earthling, and he used it to create a VR capsule connecting to that world and unleashing players?... more>>

Meet Rimelion. A real universe. A fake game.

I used to be John a VR tester and a whiskey connoisseur in a world that felt real. But wasn’t. The government ran a magical simulation of the future and then hoicked the plug.

But not before a punk kid yanked me out of there and dumped into the real world… twenty years in the past. A day before the Earthling unleashed the players into the Rimelion.

Fortunately, in this timeline, my hacker friend is alive and kicking and got me inside the game. Unfortunately, he sneaked me into Rimelion as the avatar of his dearly departed lover.

And thanks to my glitchy VR capsule, my real-world body matched the virtual one, forcing me to navigate Earth as a girl, and Rimelion as an elven priestess.

Seriously, fighting in high heels?

More, I knew from the sim that it’ll take only a few years before the system offers getting isekai’d to Rimelion. By ritual death on Earth.

To stop the dystopia I was yanked out, I’ll need allies on both sides.
In Rimelion, I have to climb the noble ranks and get powerful.
On Earth, outwit the government and save people from ritual deaths.
And everywhere? Dodge the AIs hunting me.

The odds? Not great.

But I never played fair anyway.
***
What to expect:
- Light LitRPG story with an emphasis on strategy and world-building
- First-person perspective (and occasional close third POVs)
- Reader-Inspired characters
- A witty protagonist with a conversational sarcastic, humorous and often self-deprecating voice
- A sci-fi world with mysteries sprinkled with fantasy elements
- A rich real fantasy world Rimelion with kingdoms, rules, exploits, and challenges
- Supporting characters with personal goals
- RU translation: evelyna

Schedule: Three times a week (Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday) <<less

What if Douluo Dalu had taken another path—one not soaked in blood and soul beast corpses, but guided by the light of reason, sacrifice, and evolution?
In this alternate version born from chaos, a mysterious figure known only as The Preacher rewrote the laws of cultivation. No longer do soul rings come from slaughter. Power is no longer monopolized by fate, but earned through resonance of body, energy, soul & self.... more>>

As realities intertwine, philosophies collide—every faction facing its counterpart in a battle not just of strength, but of belief.
Shrek Academy, once untouchable, falters as the Sage Academy exposes its hypocrisy with truth and clarity.
The brute pride of the Body Sect crumbles before the transcendent trials of True Essence Mountain.
Scattered empires of the original world bow before the unity and structure of the Seven Divine Lineages.
The parasitic horror of the Holy Spirit Church shatters before the Void Society, whose lawful chaos and ascetic terror showcase what true villainy looks like—cold, calculated, and cosmic.
Even spirit beasts are not safe form the comparison, shedding primal rage for purpose. Enlightened races rise under shared systems—not through dominance, but through design. The prospects of mydraid races comtention left them goodsmached as the
This is not a mere divergence—it is a reckoning. A saga where two worlds converge, and only one version of the truth can survive.
Even spirit beasts are not spared from comparison, shedding primal rage for purpose. Enlightened races rise under shared systems—not through dominance, but through design. The prospects of myriad races contending left them gobsmacked, as the balance of power rewrote itself in front of their eyes. <<less

From the first breath, I was accumulating points. Now, I see that my father abandoned me, and my mother despises me. What more is left... more>> of filial piety? Who would worship such despicable people, I’ll conquer the world instead. <<less

A former MMA fighter finds himself reincarnated as a young orphan in the unforgiving Pokémon World.
Unlike the cheerful and bright world he once saw on screens, this version is brutal, filled with danger, desperation, and morally gray decisions.
Pokémon battles are intense, injuries are real, and survival often means stepping into the shadows.
With no family, no allies, and no guidance, he must use his fighting instincts and quick thinking to carve a path forward.
Every day is a test of strength, cunning, and willpower in a world where even children fight to stay alive.... more>>

DISCLAIMER: This is a non-commercial fanfiction. I do not own the Pokémon franchise.

Advanced chapters and more content available on my Patreon.
www.patreon.com/babywrath <<less

Readers can expect: An exhilarating blend of intense action, nail-biting suspense, emotional depth, and expansive world-building as well as slice-of-life moments, With characters you’ll root for (and fear), a system that’s more than it seems, and layers of intrigue at every turn, this is a story that will keep you thinking long after each chapter.... more>>

What would you do if the universe handed you a system of infinite possibilities?

Ethan Cole never thought his life would be extraordinary. At 20, he was just a young man burdened by family struggles, working part-time, and chasing dreams that always seemed out of reach. But when the mysterious Unlimited System appeared, it didn’t just change his life—it reshaped his entire reality.

The Unlimited System isn’t just a tool; it’s a gateway to unimaginable power, wealth, and influence. But with great rewards come even greater risks. As Ethan rises from an ordinary bookstore part-timer to the founder of Nova Tech—a rising tech empire—he's soon drawn into conflict with the Great Families, powerful elites secretly researching and developing bio-weapons and creating artificial Ascendants to further their dominance.

As Ethan uncovers the sinister plans of the LaRue family and their illegal experiments, he’s approached by Nemesis, a covert organization tasked with keeping these hidden powers in check and maintaining balance. Nemesis offers Ethan a position within their ranks, recognizing his potential and the threat he faces from the very people manipulating the world’s unseen forces.

This isn’t just a story about gaining strength. It’s about navigating impossible choices, protecting loved ones, and uncovering truths about the world—and himself—that are far bigger than he ever imagined.

Why you’ll love this story:

High stakes, big ambitions: From taking on corrupt loan sharks to outmaneuvering the influential LaRue family, Ethan's battles aren’t just physical—they’re strategic, emotional, and deeply personal.

A system like no other: The Unlimited System isn’t a cheat—it’s a challenge. With every reward, Ethan is pushed further into a web of opportunities and dangers.

Rich character development: Follow Ethan’s journey as he grows into a leader, protector, and potential Ascendant, surrounded by allies like the formidable Five Ghosts of Nemesis and others.

World-building that draws you in: From the secrets of the Ascendant realm to the ruthless machinations of the Great, Grand, Supreme, and Ancient Families, every detail immerses you in a world brimming with action, adventure, mystery, and danger.

Heartfelt relationships: Whether it’s Ethan’s love for his family or his loyalty to friends, the story balances epic action with genuine emotional moments.

I started writing The Unlimited System because I wanted to explore the journey of an ordinary person rising to meet extraordinary challenges—not just through strength but through grit, heart, and determination. This isn’t just a story about power; it’s about the weight of responsibility and the courage to face the unknown.

If you’re looking for a gripping tale that combines the thrill of strategy and action with heartfelt character moments and a world that feels alive, this is the story for you. Come along as Ethan Cole fights to not only survive—but thrive—in a universe that’s far more dangerous than it seems.

Violence and mature themes are present. This is fiction for adults.

Updates: Consistent and carefully written to ensure every chapter builds the excitement and quality you deserve. <<less

Anomalies have always existed in the world, without any specific pattern. Sometimes they were places, other times objects, and occasionally, beings. Almost all anomalies possess something called “anomalous power” an innate ability that grants them capabilities that defy all the laws of nature. And I... ended up becoming one of these anomalies.... more>>

New chapters are released 5 times per week Monday - Friday

***

Visit my Patreon to get up to 21 chapters ahead - (21 chapters / one months ahead): Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/rowen_kun/membership <<less

Sinopsis: '''(a somewhat a crossover fanfic/original story mix hybrid)
"Somehow got myself inserted into existence in some cult ritual gone wrong in a world with... more>> multiple secret societies with all sorts of agendas, and the most concerning thing i have to deal with is my school records. life truly is a giant bitch." -this book protagonist, while working on their homework.
basically, got to many ideas in my head and i need to let them out. so, if that absurd story interest you, hello there, welcome, and enjoy yourself. If not, the go and read the stories of other people you like, it's not like I hold you at gunpoint to read THIS terrible story. '''
the cover is just there because of my OCD, no relation to the story whatsoever, so feel free to ignore it.
ps. I'm STILL a terrible writer, so still expects a mother-load of cliché, cringe, and terrible writings. Critics and advise are welcome. And I am also the world worst typo, so keyboard warriors, have fun correcting me in the comment section.
also, the story will be a bit vague in describing something/someone(mostly because, again, second time writing, and also, I'm a bit bad at describing things in general), so use those imagination or whatever tool to help for a somewhat clear picture of things.
obviously, all story rights are reserved towards the original owners. i own nothing, as this story is a fanfiction of sorts. the plot and mc are mine, but everything else do belong to the original owners in some way, shape, and/or form. i may not know be the makers but i sure as shit going to give them credits and rights as the original owners, so don't say i never said it. <<less

With Lucia and Zadale at war, Alric and his team are sent deep into Zadale to unravel a conspiracy buried beneath its cobbled streets. But beneath the clash of swords and the echo of war drums lies a darker battlefield, one of politics, shifting alliances, and invisible hands steering entire kingdoms toward ruin.... more>>

What begins as a mission for answers soon spirals into a labyrinth of betrayal, bloodshed, and power plays, each more treacherous than the last. In the shadows, masks fall and secrets surface, revealing a world where loyalty is currency and truth is a weapon more dangerous than any blade.

Because sometimes, it isn’t the truth that kills you.
It’s the lies you bleed for. <<less

He has returned to the past. And this time he will live up to his role as a young master, which he lost in the past.
He will use all the resources of his family to his advantage. He will cheat the world itself.
This is a harem and intrigue story, where he will get what he wants, he will build his own super hidden power and he will protect his loved one's this time.... more>>

...

The character's sheet... If you got lost. Be careful though, it is full of spoilers
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1P_mYCR3G-WOPiRvJBj1v6g5mlQXOtyJuivGdfWou38U

P.S.
- I may be editing this novel continuously and some times will need to change some details to accommodate later chapters.
- I am publishing this on RR and WN, but the first release is always here.

I added a ko-fi account, so if you want faster chapters, consider a little donation, It would help me a lot. <<less

Maxwell Clear was the most normal, average, 20-something guy in all of Barrie Ontario. He had a job at a pizza palace, his Dad was always away on work, and he had one, count em ONE - friend. What more could he ask for.
Apparently, a lot. He could ask for a lot.
Now MAXINE Clear has got to deal with alien wives, ghost roommates, superhero dates, creepy antique dolls, and her one friend becoming more than that. Oh, and she's dating all of them, all while trying to keep everything on the down-low from the PSPS (The Protection and Securing of the Paranormal and Strange). They do NOT want the secret of the abnormal... more>> getting out.
Buckle up, this one's a doozy!

I'm going to update this as I write them. It's also a little on the shorter side, but I hope my funny little characters make up for that :) <<less

When Liam wakes up in the body of a succubus princess with no memory of how he got there, he's thrust into a world of demonic politics, supernatural powers, and hungers he never knew existed. Desperate to return to his human life, he must navigate the treacherous halls of the Academy of Infernal Arts while maintaining his cover as Lily, daughter of Hell's royal couple.... more>>

But as Liam struggles with his new demonic nature, he finds unexpected friendship with fellow students at the academy. Together, they face various obstacles, uncover ancient secrets, and discover that not everything in Hell is as it seems.

As his time stretches on, Liam must confront a terrifying possibility: What if returning to his old life isn't an option anymore? And worse—what if he's starting to enjoy being Lily?

Caught between two worlds, two identities, and two sets of instincts, Liam must decide who he truly wants to be before both his worlds come crashing down around him.

****WARNING*****
There will be sex scenes involving protagonist and different people. Men and Women alike.

Because English is not my native language, I'm relying on AI to edit my ramblings into something more coherent to a native speaker. If you dislike any use of the AI, then this story is not for you.

Discord Link: https://discord.gg/N8AJgu385J <<less

In an innovative reimagining of the Harry Potter universe, this novel introduces a unique twist to the beloved story, focusing on Harry Potter's journey enhanced by the Technology System (TS) and his interactions with Nigel, an AI assistant.... more>>

The narrative follows a young Harry Potter, who is not just a budding wizard but also a tech-savvy genius, thanks to the advanced Technology System embedded within him. This system, operating through a symbiosis of magic and technology, provides Harry with unprecedented magical analysis, data storage, and real-time spell and potion assistance. At the heart of this system is Nigel, an AI with the personality of a British gentleman, known for his dry humor, sarcasm, and witty remarks that often add a humorous touch to Harry's adventures.

As Harry prepares for his first year at Hogwarts, he delves into potion brewing and spellcasting with a proficiency far beyond his years, thanks to the Technology System's virtual environments and Nigel's tutelage. His unique approach to magic, combined with his technological edge, sets him apart, promising a future where he surpasses his canonical counterpart.

The Technology System, especially the Virtual Potion Crafting Room, becomes a pivotal tool in Harry's magical education, allowing him to experiment and master potions in a safe, controlled environment. This feature, along with the System's ability to analyze and store vast amounts of magical knowledge, becomes indispensable to Harry's growth as a wizard. The novel is a fresh take on the Harry Potter story.

1. Smart MC
Expect a Harry Potter who is not just magically gifted but also technologically adept, using the advanced Technology System to enhance his magical abilities and knowledge. This version of Harry demonstrates a level of intelligence and problem-solving skills that surpasses his original portrayal.

2. Witty and Sarcastic AI Companion
Nigel, the AI assistant with a personality reminiscent of a British gentleman, brings humor and sarcasm to the narrative. His interactions with Harry are not just helpful but also entertaining, adding a unique flavor to the story.

3. Evolved Relationships

4. Enhanced Magical Skills

5. Manipulation

6. Adventure and Exploration

7. Unique Magical Training

8. Humor and Levity

9. A Fresh Take on Canon

Disclaimer: This is a work of fanfiction created for free, non-commercial purposes. I do not own the characters, settings, or source material referenced — all rights belong to their original creators.

This story is shared purely for entertainment and creative expression. I do not monetize this work in any form. It is freely available to read, and no payment is required or expected.

While I may accept voluntary donations to support my general writing efforts (e.g., via Patreon), these are not tied to access, updates, or specific content related to this fanfiction. Donations are optional and support me as a writer, not the fanfic itself.

As part of my writing process, I may share early drafts or seek light feedback (e.g., proofreading) from trusted supporters. This is done to improve my craft and does not constitute paid or exclusive access to the fanfiction. <<less

[Comedy] [Reincarnation] [System]... more>>

Waking up in an alternative world is never easy, especially when you have to choose your own fate!

Once again, Max has woken up in an unfamiliar world. A cryptic system is insisting through various prompts that he begins his journey in this world by starting a story. After various lifetimes filled with struggles, Max is trying to enjoy a simple life by avoiding anything linked to an adventure.

But who exactly is Max? And what has been his own story so far?

There will be a new chapter every day until the backlog is finished, and then there will be a new chapter every Wednesday and Saturday.

Cover art by Moribow.
TW: Occasional deaths and heavy imagery. <<less

Ah! Aythryn City. Truly a mess of neon and trash all supporting the psychopaths that live here. Desire is the name of the game in such a bright place, as anyone on the streets can verify. Whether it be the gangs roaming the streets, the corpo rats in their tall towers, or the people just trying to get by; everyone wants something. ... more>>

Then enter me: a poor thief turned investigator just to make enough for end’s meet. Or at least, that’s how it was supposed to go down. Now though? Now I’m caught in several shit storms between stealing from one of the Big 7 to a weird interface telling me what to do. I just hope I can survive long enough to get out of this cursed city with enough Rayn to make a better life.
———————
Outrun will be a long run, heh, with plenty of post-apocalyptic/cyberpunk world building sprinkled in. <<less

Rinaldo had never asked to be the scion of the current rulers of the wealthiest city on Earth. His dream was to live a peaceful life, spending his days reading books and playing with his little black cat. However, his surname attracted many enemies, and after yet another assassination attempt, he realized that wealth and power were not worth the stress. Thus, he faked his death, starting a new life in the one place no one would think to look for him—the Miraval Academy.... more>>

In that magical place, the heirs of the ruling caste that controls the Holy Rolandish Empire secure their place within elitist society by training in the power bestowed upon them by Chaos, becoming warrior-mages known as Essentias. However, a rigid hierarchy exists among them, dividing each Essentia according to their power---Class S are gods among men, destined to write glorious legends, while Class F are treated as human trash by the higher ranks.

There, on his first day of Academy, Rinaldo shatters every record by becoming the weakest Essentia in history---FFF-Class 'Javelinist.'

If being doomed to a life worse than mediocrity wasn’t bad enough, the worst is yet to come. Enduring the eccentricities of his fellow noble classmates, uncovering a millennia-old secret organization plotting to destabilize the world, and surviving a war between two superpowers—these events are just the beginning of the unlucky life of the soon-to-be antagonist of this tale.

What to expect:

VILLAIN ORIGINS: This story follows the rise to power of this setting's main villain. Although Rinaldo isn't a real villain at the start, he will act as a morally gray character, committing whatever actions are necessary to achieve his goals. YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED!

A VAST CAST OF CHARACTERS: Each narrative arc will spotlight a different protagonist, with the MC appearing as a secondary character, a background one, or even as the main villain.

SCHOOL SETTING: Expect magic lessons, teenage drama, and even a unique fantasy sport. However, more than half of the story takes place outside the academy because the MC frequently skips his classes.

NO HAREM: That said, there will be multiple love triangles with only one featuring the MC.

SLOW PROGRESSION: World war by Chapter 37.

IMMENSE WORLDBUILDING: With over 2,000 years of recorded history and more than 10,000 years of mythology, this story spans three continents, each unique in culture, religion, and magic-system. (See the Map)

Release Schedule:

Each volume’s chapters (10–20 in total) will be released daily, with a short break after the final chapter.

Exceptions:

Chapters between 4,000 and 10,000 words may take more than one day to be released

Chapters over 10,000 words may take up to a week. <<less

When 25-year-old Talia Wolfe returns to her grandmother's home after her death, she expects grief, not secrets. But the reading of the will sets off a chain of revelations no one in the family is prepared for. A mysterious inheritance in South Korea-an apartment and a flower shop-forces Talia and her brother Damian to relocate, unearthing a legacy steeped in hidden powers, brutal training, and a past their parents never spoke of.... more>>

As memories of a harrowing childhood resurface of cryptic lessons, supernatural abilities, and a father who trained them like soldiers-Talia must come to terms with the truth: their family was never ordinary, and neither is the world they're stepping into.

What lies in Seoul may be more than property. It may be the reason they were trained to survive. Would Talia be able to find more than just the need to survive? Will she be able to finally find peace amidst the chaos in her life?

*** Please note that there will be violence in the story*** <<less

A young boy with a strange demeanor suddenly finds himself contending with a beautiful emerald-haired girl stuck inside of his mind. She doesn’t remember much of anything, and loves to sleep, however, it’s clear that there is a deep connection between the two of them.... more>>

The son of a mercenary, all he has known is constant travel and bloodshed. Now tied into a greater fate than anyone realizes, how will they survive being thrust onto the world stage full of powerfully gifted nobility, an ever-dominant central church, and a mysterious hidden force lurking in the shadows?

Follow Byleth as he grows up in a world of magic and mystery, grappling with powers he doesn’t entirely understand and forced to combat those who would seek the mysterious girl for their own purposes.

- - - - -

You do not need knowledge about Fire Emblem to read this. The story can also be dark at points, but that is by no means the focus of the novel.

Also, feel free to check out the Glossary! I have pictures and descriptions of all the most important characters and places.

Join the Discord - https://discord.gg/AddKrp8Xt2 <<less

Sometimes, luck isn’t on your side. Then again, sometimes it is. ... more>>

Ben was just living his life, but fate has other plans. A single reckless decision pulls him into a mess, and the stakes are high indeed.

People are going missing. Strange things are happening. And it’s up to Ben and his loyal friends to figure out what’s going on… before it’s too late. But Ben’s starting to wonder: is he just caught in the chaos, or is he the one causing it?

Pushing My Luck is a fast-paced supernatural thriller filled with dark humor, twists, and heart-stopping action. Sometimes, bad luck is the least of your problems.

Are you ready to find out? <<less

A college student trapped in a harem-filled home discovers a broken glove, a cursed deck, and a god who calls him “child.” Now he draws... more>> cards from fate itself — hunted by cults, agencies, and the fragments of a shattered divinity. Is <<less

David Saunders saw something he shouldn't have: his boss, pharmaceutical magnate Jeremiah Steele murder the son of a rival. It's going to take one hell... more>> of a disguise to keep him alive, and as competing forces swirl around him, the secrets and legacy of his own past emerge. Will he survive, surrender, or find his own way through the plots arrayed against him? <<less