The Price of Essence [Slice of Life LitRPG]

Experience points are finite, and all civilizations of the universe wage war to take it all.  For Jeremy, heir to a legendary family, the Academy of Humanity is his first step into a brutal reality where strength is determined by Skills. Driven by the weight of his family’s legacy and haunted by the mystery surrounding his sister’s awakening, Jeremy’s journey takes an unexpected turn when he discovers his unique Skill: Universal Equipment. In a world where buffs are absorbed from equipment—strictly limited to designated slots—Jeremy alone can place any item in any slot, breaking the boundaries others are confined by. With this unmatched adaptability, Jeremy can combine buffs in unprecedented ways, layering conflicting powers and amplifying his strength beyond what anyone has ever seen. But wielding such power comes at a price. Allies grow curious, rivals grow wary, and a twin brother is left in his shadow. What lines will he cross in his pursuit of the truth? And will it be worth the price he will pay? Readers can expect: Strong to OP MC Skill progression, not just numbers go up (but there’s a lot of that too) Stacking a bunch of equipment buffs for ridiculous results Characters who feel like real people MC that isn't afraid to use his influence No harem, no romance at all 2000 words per chapter, Monday to Friday