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
Without question.
As Aric looked his father in the eyes, his expression hardened, every word measured and cutting.
"You need not ask this of me," he said, his voice quiet, but his intent loud, "but rest assured, they will pay with their lives and more." His gaze was as fixed as iron, the promise filling the room like a silent echo.
Xavier's eyes lingered on his son, the lines on his face deepening in the torchlight as if carrying unspoken regrets. Though the emperor's face remained firm, there was a glimmer—perhaps relief, perhaps something else entirely—that faded as quickly as it had appeared.
After a moment, Xavier finally nodded, as if that single gesture carried all the words a father and son might never say aloud.