A Survey of Sages | alchemy • soft-litrpg fantasy • BL

It was a simple assignment; survey a swamp that stayed hot and humid year-round. Isn’t this a punishment? Sending an A-rank alchemist to D-grade rifts that practically unravel themselves? “Central requested me,” Kai clarified. “I requested you.” Nico saw red—next to a list of missing alchemists: Status: Unknown.“One of the Arcanite Sages from the Forged Nation has been signing off on the annual survey reports,” Kai added.Nico’s ears flattened. And of course, a Sage with enough free time to bother him showed up.  A fox-born alchemist surveys rifts and blighted land in a world shaped by institutions of power. The assignment unfolds through what he chooses to document or withhold, and how he copes with the absurdity of it all. What to expect– alchemy skills in a system UI, no exp grind– investigative mystery about damaged land and inherited history– slow-burn BL between sweet/prickly personalities– competent & flawed adult protagonists– dry, absurd character-driven humor– ambiguity that rewards attention Vibes with: Dungeon Meshi, Mushishi, Frieren