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
Loosely kept secret.
Two Years has passed since the fall of the Byzeth king.
The moon held low in the dark sky, offering silver light upon the roads of the Byzeth Kingdom.
The wind carried the scent of the northern fields, and a man in a worn, dark cloak rode swiftly upon a horse, its hooves thundering against the earth.
His face was obscured, a hood shadowing his features, but his intent was clear—there was no hesitation in his pace, no falter in his gaze as he urged his steed onward through the winding paths, past the small towns and provinces of Byzeth.
He pressed onward through the night, his silhouette became a fleeting after image across villages that slumbered beneath the stars.
Fields transformed to cobblestone streets as he approached the capital, the proud structures of the city rising before him, tall and imposing. He did not slow as he rode through the gates, past the watchful eyes of guards stationed along the path.