Rebirth System: Blood and Ash
Aric Valerian, the fourth prince of the Valerian Empire, bears many titles: The Forgotten Prince, The Whore's Child, The King's Bastard—names that have been spoken more than his own. Born with a crippling illness and devoid of mana or ki, Aric was a disgrace, scorned by his family and the court. But when the gods cured him and gifted him the strength to fight, Aric dared to hope. He sought glory in battle, only to be betrayed by his brother and sent to die in a hopeless war. In his final moments, as death closed in, a mysterious text appeared before him… [Would you like to change your fate?] After being given another chance, Aric embarks on a ruthless journey to claim absolute sovereignty. [Ki Circulation Mastered: Strength +10] [System Upgrade: Advanced tactical planning unlocked] [Hidden Fortress Established: Stronghold security +15%] The forgotten prince claws his way through the treacherous landscape of imperial politics, he is forced to make impossible choices, each decision pushing him further down a path soaked in blood. He learns that true power demands sacrifice, and the price of vengeance may be his soul. ------------------ This book contains dark themes and depictions. The mc is a ruthless cynic, and is closer to being a villain than he is a hero. Main themes: Politics, Kingdom building, strategy, war
You are not good men.
Xavier held Aric close for a moment longer, the silence between them weighted, heavy with years of things unsaid. Finally, he let go, stepping back slowly, his hand lingering on Aric's shoulder.
In the brief gap before Xavier pulled away completely, Aric's expression shifted, sealing back into the stoic mask he wore so well. The flicker of vulnerability was gone, buried under a cold calm, his face impassive, unreadable.
Xavier noticed, his brow lifting slightly. He gave Aric's shoulder a final squeeze, a small, wry smile twisting his lips.
"You'll make a fine emperor," he murmured, the words carrying a gravity that left no room for doubt.