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
Meeting
The prince had made it back to Hitoshi's home.
He stood in the living chamber. Around him, they all gathered—Serina, Leria, Alan, Hitoshi, and even the carriage driver. The Rune Stone was also connected, allowing Borag, Twicher, and the Lord of Heidz to join the meeting remotely.
Aric had called this meeting with everyone present because the current situation the king had placed him in meant that all his plans would have to work without his physical intervention. If that were the case, he needed to ensure he could delegate effectively and trust his team members to execute their parts.
"I had a talk with Aszer two days ago... and tomorrow, the Byzeth Kingdom and its forces will begin multiple raids on Valeria... orchestrated by me."
Hearing these words, everyone remained silent, but it was clear what was going through their minds. Was that not madness? How does one attack his own empire as an offensive against another?