REDN

Ashen Blade: Legacy of the Forgotten is a dystopian cyberpunk thriller set in a future where the world has been reshaped by the unchecked power of corporate dynasties known as the Keiretsu (系列). These massive conglomerates have replaced nations and governments, molding the world through commerce, warfare, and control. In this new age, power is everything, and survival is earned—not guaranteed.

The social structure is brutal, built on a rigid hierarchy where strength and honor are the currency of survival. At the top are the Kurokenshi (黒剣士)—elite warriors who maintain their humanity despite advanced augmentations. Beneath them, the Integrated rely on cybernetic enhancements to survive, while the Unshackled, those without enhancements, struggle to cling to a dying existence. The lowest rung, however, is occupied by the Glitched—individuals who should not exist. Born outside corporate control or as failed prototypes, they are anomalies—threats in a world that cannot afford mistakes.

The story follows Ash Atsuyuki, the last of the Shirogiri clan, a once-proud bloodline of elite warriors now reduced to fighting for survival in a world that has moved beyond honor and tradition. His family’s name is little more than a relic, a fading echo of an era when power was earned through steel, discipline, and the ancient martial codes of Kurogami (黒神)—the planet that birthed his ancestors. With his father gone, his mother dead, and his grandfather clinging to life, Ash walks the crumbling streets of a city ruled by corporate power and surveillance, where history and bloodlines no longer matter.

Ash’s journey is one of reclaiming not just his heritage, but the very essence of power. In a world where only the strong survive, Ash must rise above the ruins of his family’s name, rediscover the forgotten martial techniques of the Black Gods, and reclaim his place among the elite. But in a world dominated by corporate overlords and enhanced warriors, can a fallen bloodline ever truly rise again?

This story is officially being posted on RoyalRoad.com under the account REDN_CHRONICLES.

Ashen Blade: Legacy of the Forgotten

The night of the gala arrived with an air of anticipation that clung to the neon-lit skyline of the upper district. The Keiretsu compound stood like a fortress of glass and steel, its architecture a seamless blend of old-world grandeur and modern technological dominance. As Ash stepped out of the sleek black car, he took a measured breath, feeling the weight of countless unseen eyes upon him.

Kaede adjusted the cuff of his tailored midnight-blue suit, her own attire a masterclass in elegance and lethality—a high-slit black gown that did little to hide the subtle armor woven into its fabric. "You clean up surprisingly well," she mused, scanning their surroundings. "Try not to stab anyone too early in the night."

Ash exhaled, keeping his posture controlled. "No promises."

Kenshiko's lessons echoed in his mind. Confidence is the foundation of power. Every step forward must be a statement. He carried himself with the ease of someone who belonged, despite knowing that every elite in attendance was assessing, calculating, deciding whether he was prey or predator.

The grand hall was a masterpiece of excess. Crystal chandeliers cast golden light over the assembled guests, each dressed in designer threads that screamed affluence and silent warfare. Conversations were hushed but purposeful, negotiations hidden beneath layers of charm and veiled threats.

A server passed, offering a silver tray laden with champagne. Ash declined with a slight shake of his head, instead focusing on the gathering storm of power around him.

"You see them?" Kaede whispered beside him, her voice barely above a breath.

Ash's eyes flicked to the clusters of Keiretsu heirs, each positioned like pieces on a board. The true players of the night were already maneuvering.

Renji Arisaka, heir to Arisaka Biotech, a corporation known for their dominion over cybernetic advancements. He stood with his signature wine glass, watching the room with a detached amusement.

Eisuke Takahashi, the youngest strategist of Takahashi Heavy Industries, speaking with measured words to a group of executives. He had the air of a boy emperor, one who understood that power was both inherited and taken.

Yui Nakamura, the only one who didn't stand in a cluster. She was Keiretsu royalty, yet she kept her distance, sipping from her glass as she analyzed the room. Her gaze met Ash's for a fraction of a second before she looked away, unimpressed or simply uninterested.

Kaede smirked. "So, who's your first move?"

Ash didn't answer immediately. The game had already begun, and every decision tonight would shift the balance. He needed information, leverage—an opening move that wouldn't give away too much, too soon.

Then, the host of the night made his entrance.

A hush fell as Daigo Sumeragi stepped forward, the room parting effortlessly around him. The Sumeragi family had built an empire on security, both physical and digital, making him the most well-guarded man in the room. His presence alone was enough to remind everyone of the hierarchy in place.

His dark eyes scanned the crowd, stopping for a fraction of a second on Ash. A momentary pause, a flicker of interest, and then he continued his survey, speaking as he walked.

"Tonight is not merely a gathering," Daigo said, his voice smooth, measured. "It is a reminder that power is not held alone. It is negotiated, tested, and claimed."

Ash recognized the test in those words. Tonight, the Keiretsu were watching. Measuring. And he intended to make sure they never underestimated him again.

Kaede nudged his side, her voice barely audible. "Hope you're ready for this."

Ash smiled, the sharp edge of it hidden beneath practiced ease. "I was born ready."

Tonight, the game was his to play.

THE KEIRETSU GALA