Venetian Red: The Exiled King

In the aftermath of World War 4, the Eastern Wasteland emerges as a chaotic realm where anarcho-capitalism reigns supreme. Here, the government is entirely replaced by the free market, and private companies operate without accountability. Bandits, gangs, mutants, and corporations roam freely, enforcing their own rules in a lawless landscape. Amidst this turmoil, some individuals strive to establish order.

Unlike typical stories featuring weak protagonists seeking power, our main character, Wanderer, is a former powerful leader who now yearns for simplicity. Overwhelmed by the horrors of war, he avoids leadership and chooses the solitary life of a mercenary, wandering the wasteland. However, fate continually drags him back into conflict.

The Eastern Wasteland is a diverse and fractured place, filled with factions that never see eye to eye. From the militaristic SWAT in the west to the neon-lit, cyberpunk streets of Sin City controlled by Series 9 in the east, and the jungle strongholds of the True Horde mutant pagans in the north to the opulent, gold-plated cities of the Caliphate in the south, the landscape is rife with tension.

A turning point arises with the establishment of Rayaskent (City of Radiance), a neutral zone led by Vila, which becomes a new source of conflict. Will the Eastern Wasteland be able to break free from the curse of endless war?

Throughout the narrative, Wanderer seeks to unite various factions and dismantle oppressive forces while confronting his own inner demons and the consequences of his past actions. His journey embodies the struggle for redemption, the pursuit of a greater purpose, and the relentless quest for a better future in a world defined by violence and despair.

"Venetian Red: The Exiled King" takes place in the same post-apocalyptic world as its predecessor, balancing action with introspection and exploring themes of redemption and the complexities of leadership in greater detail. Expect a slower pace, and importantly, this sequel stands alone; you don't need to have read the first book to enjoy this story.

"About 30-40% of the narrative focuses on Wanderer grappling with his grumpiness and fighting his own prejudices.  And it shows how he is not just bashing bad people, but how to fix a place that is unfixable without a war. So, if you can tolerate a paradox protagonist dealing with inner and external struggles, this story might be worth your time."