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
Money Tree
Lord Heidz's Manor.
Four days since the council meeting.
Aric walked into the lord's manor after traversing a long expanse of land, like a sea of well-cut green grass decorated with multiple statues and fountains made of white stone. The manor itself was large and complexly beautiful, its design speaking of unparalleled architecture and even more profound costs.
It didn't take a second look to know this was the home of the extremely wealthy, and upon entering inside, it was an even greater sight to behold. The entire interior was covered in gold and marble furnishings, and there was no place to look that didn't offer a gleam of wealth.
"Please, this way," one of the servants beckoned as Aric followed behind him.
He was led through a large hallway and eventually up the breathtaking curve of stairs before traveling through another hallway, only stopping when they reached the door at the far end of the hall.