AndyB_writes

Born in exile, Pyrrhus of Epirus rises to reclaim his lost kingdom, proving himself a warrior as fierce as his ancestor, Achilles. From the battlefields of Greece to the war-torn lands of Italy, he wages war against powerful enemies, including Macedon, Rome, and shifting allies who betray him at every turn. As he builds an empire through blood and conquest, Pyrrhus seeks not just victory, but immortality—a place among the greatest legends of history.

But war demands sacrifice. And the price of ambition is steep.


Years after his father’s fall, Alexander II of Epirus is forced into exile, raised in a land of warriors. As a young king, he reclaims his throne and seeks to restore his father’s legacy. But he soon faces an even greater threat—Rome, an empire that will not bow to kings or gods.

Outnumbered and surrounded by betrayal, Alexander must decide what kind of ruler he will be—one who fights for his people, or one who fights for history. As war consumes the land, his destiny unfolds in a battle that will determine not only his fate, but the fate of all who defy the rise of an empire.

Crown and Blood

The city of Ambracia stirred with unease. Word had spread—Demetrius II was marching toward Epirus.

Alexander stood atop the palace balcony, staring toward the Macedonian border, where his father had once fought his greatest battles.

Drakon entered the chamber, his expression grim. "They say Demetrius is bringing twenty thousand men."

Alexander did not flinch. "Then we will kill twenty thousand men."

Drakon smirked. "Spoken like a true king."

But then—a new voice interrupted them.

Alexander turned sharply, his fists clenching.

The Roman envoy stood tall and arrogant, his red cloak embroidered with the eagle of the Republic. He did not bow to Alexander. A sign of dominance.

"My name is Marcus Valerius," the Roman said. "I come with an offer from the Senate."

Alexander remained silent, watching him like a hawk.

"The Republic has taken notice of your struggle," Valerius continued. "Demetrius II is your enemy. He is our enemy as well."

Drakon crossed his arms, his distrust evident. "What does Rome want in return?"

The word hung in the air like a dagger.

"Epirus will be allowed to remain independent," the Roman continued. "But you will swear fealty to Rome. You will send troops when called upon. And you will recognize the Senate's authority over your affairs."

"Tell your Senate," he said, his voice like steel, "that Epirus kneels to no one."

"Then you make an enemy of Rome," he warned.

Alexander stepped closer, his golden eyes burning. "Rome was always my enemy."

Valerius studied him for a long moment, then gave a curt nod.

With that, he turned and left, his crimson cloak dragging across the marble floor.

Drakon let out a sharp breath. "That was bold."

Alexander turned back toward the window, watching as the sun began to set over his kingdom.

"Rome was never going to let me rule," he murmured. "I would rather die fighting than live as a dog."

And so, Alexander II prepared for war.

The Cost of Kingship