3 months ago

Ashen DragonEmber Dragon

燃烬之龙

From the wild, boundless wastelands he appeared—the Red Dragon, whose greed knew no bounds.
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From the wild, boundless wastelands he appeared—the Red Dragon, whose greed knew no bounds.

The world knew him by many names: the Wrathful Flame of the Mountains, the Infernal Scourge, the Crimson Emperor... and finally, the Ashen Dragon.

Under the shadow of his wings, entire civilizations trembled. It was he who fanned the flames of the magical industrial revolution. In the empire he created, the roar of wyverns merged with the salvos of cannons.

Steel monsters plowed the heavens and the earth, and from the rifts into other worlds crawled the living embodiments of catastrophes.

Cassius spread his wings, which blotted out the sun, and looked down upon the trembling humans, elves, and dwarves at his feet. And his voice was like thunder:

"Submit, or die."

...

A story of a red dragon with a built-in player template conquering, ruling, and transforming another world.

(Pseudo D&D, Fourth Catastrophe, Red Dragon)
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Comments 33

  1. Offline
    + 10 -
    Warning: when nonsense appears at the end of a chapter, it is better to go to the Chinese source. It's working so far ttks.tw . nonsense happens about the DND and about the war, about 400-500 chapters begin. It finally got to me only on chapter 943. The excerpts are small
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  2. Offline
    + 01 -
    Okay im done I can't read this shit anymore the translators clearly don't give enough f#cks to fix this mess and if I read one more chapter that's just random text I'm gonna lose my shit
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  3. Online Offline
    + 10 -
    The newer chapters starting at around chapter 900 are a mess, every 5 or so chapters has the same random text replacing half of the original text, makes reading just so frustrating
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    1. Offline
      + 00 -
      The newer chapters starting at around chapter 900 are a mess, every 5 or so chapters has the same random text replacing half of the original text, makes reading just so frustrating
      #Panic# please fix MTL
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      1. Offline
        + 00 -
        There's nothing wrong with AI MTL, but the issue lies in the "translation from 549690339".
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        --------------------
        only we
        1. Offline
          + 00 -
          Oh sorry thought they were referring to the MTL whenever I think of MTL I think of irreversible mistakes that cause reading to make peoples qi deviate 🙇‍♂️ 🙇‍♂️ 🙇‍♂️
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  4. Offline
    + 130 -
    Invisible Dragon, best dragon
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  5. Offline
    + 10 -
    • 5.0
    5.0
    I've read up to the latest chapter for now (860). It's very good. Above average, 8/10. Selfish + Evil + Ruthless + Non-human protagonist + Empire building + Technology and Magic. The author's writing visibly improves over time, and the arcs get more and more interesting. My only complaint is that later on, the author starts including too many chapters from the Players' perspectives. I find it a bit annoying, but it's not that bad.
    joy
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  6. Offline
    + 10 -
    it is impossible to read starting from chapter 900 because they end with random descriptions instead of the original text (Google translate)
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  7. Online Offline
    + 161 -
    Ashen Dragon / Ember Dragon (燃烬之龙)
    Author: 凌虚月影 (Ling Xu Yue Ying)
    Genre: Xianxia | Dark Fantasy | Karma Cultivation | Flame Dao


    ☠️ TOXIN PROFILE:
    Prose Poison Level: ★★★✦☆ (Lingering acrid fumes. Serviceable with occasional lyrical flare-ups. Like incense sticks shoved in your nose and lit backwards.)

    Pacing Poison Level: ★★★★☆ (Volatile. Like swallowing a flaming pill that turns out to be dry coal with a reset formation array inside.)

    Romantic Subplot Poison: ★★★✦☆ (Harem smoke. Faintly perfumed, but mostly choking. You might forget their names by the next breakthrough.)

    Filler Toxin (Arc-Backwash): ★★★★✦ (Repeat realm-jumping syndrome. Expect spiritual bloating. Detox with patience pills.)

    🐉 DAOIST INKDRUNK’S DECREE:
    There once was a flame that dared to burn memory itself.
    Then it got smothered by three young masters, two sect betrayals, and one obligatory tournament arc. old

    Ashen Dragon tries... truly tries... to be something grand. The Ashen Realm, the intertwining of flame with karma and remembrance… it wants to ignite poetic hellfire. But just when you think it’s about to sear your soul, it sputters into a puff of recycled smoke. Think Daoist ashes soaked in mediocre tea.

    The writing? Occasionally luminous, mostly dusty. It grieves prettily, dies blandly. Internal monologues attempt gravitas but collapse under the weight of exposition bricks. The author wields sorrow like a torch, but forgets to feed it oil. sigh

    The main character? Tragic past, stoic face, magnet for women he barely speaks to. You know the mold. His moments of introspection glimmer...then he face-slaps another arrogant cultivator and we’re back to square cliché. Side characters occasionally breathe, but most die or get forgotten too fast. cry

    Themes like destruction and rebirth flicker in and out, like a flame trying to survive a wind tribulation. You’ll sense a spark of brilliance, then get slapped with a sect elder yelling “IMPUDENCE!” FamilyGuy004

    🧧 WHAT THE MORTALS SAY:
    CN readers: Some kneel, some flee. Mixed-to-positive. They admire the "attempted literary dao" but agree it's a grindstone on one’s spiritual core.

    INTL readers: Sparse in number, fewer in patience. Described as “cultivator junk food with artistic garnishing.”

    💀 FINAL VERDICT:
    Ashen Dragon is a half-enlightened fire sermon buried beneath sect rubble and karmic clichés.
    Approach if you enjoy roasting your expectations over mid-tier plot fires. Or if you like watching embers that almost become flame, then fall into ash again. pepeg_11

    RATING: 6.3/10
    For those who’ve already walked the fire path and don’t mind some secondhand smoke in their dantian. If you’re a cultivation junkie desperate for a new flavor, try it. But if you want tight narrative arcs or top-tier philosophy? Look elsewhere.

    —Daoist Inkdrunkwanderer,
    who once lit a fire with his disappointment and warmed three other jaded readers with it.
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    1. Offline
      + 00 -
      Oh, harem once again this is? What a pity. It truly saddens me that the need for this kind of harem exists. For it is not the harem itself that is the problem, but how it is handled. Oftentimes at the expense of our beautiful counterparts.

      How I pity those female characters. Stripped of their personality, dignity, and IQ, just for the Mc's arrogance to breach the highest peak of the heavens. misery
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      1. Offline
        + 01 -
        This isn't a harem. I read up to chapter 860 and there's no hint of a harem. Don't trust this guy's reviews; he probably hasn't even read it or only read ten chapters.
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          + 21 -
          The actual novel features characters like Olivia, the imprisoned Silver Dragon, and Tiniya, the white dragoness who idolizes Cassius. These women orbit the MC, and the narrative emphasizes their emotional investment in him, which...intentionally or not...leans into a harem-like dynamic. My critique was based on that relational structure, not phantom characters. If that doesn’t qualify as harem-adjacent under the ‘characters orbiting the MC with emotional focus’ rule… well, then I’m not sure what does. Also...it's my opinion on the novel. I also saw you have given a review. Good job. Do try to understand people have different opinions on stuff before blatantly arguing. misery mmmk
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          1. Offline
            + 13 -
            Your analysis seems to be based on a search for elements that fit your preexisting definition of 'harem,' rather than on an impartial examination of the work. The presence of strong female characters or those who show admiration for the protagonist is not, in itself, proof of a harem. In many narratives, deep friendships and bonds of loyalty are developed without any romantic or polygamous connotation. And I don’t know if you’re aware of the definition of ‘harem’ in the context of novels. It usually implies multiple explicit romantic/sexual relationships, or a protagonist who gathers love interests without a clear commitment to just one. Your interpretation of a ‘harem-adjacent dynamic’ is overly broad and could be applied to almost any work with more than one relevant female character, which greatly dilutes the meaning of the term. So, before writing a review, don’t spread false information based on your conjectures. addiction exit
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              + 30 -
              My review wasn’t claiming the novel was a full-blown harem, but noting how it leans on those tropes. Disagreeing is fair, but dismissing my credibility just because I interpret genre conventions more broadly isn’t. Readers interpret those dynamics differently, and I used the term in the broader sense that’s common in novel communities. You prefer a stricter definition, which is fair. But it doesn’t make my review ‘false’.....it’s just a different lens. You have already given your honest review and I have mine. Let people decide before jumping and stating your views on others. Its boring. meme_12 yaranaikachu
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              1. Offline
                + 00 -
                I understand your point about varied interpretations, and I respect that you take a broader view of what can be considered 'harem-adjacent.' My concern, however, is that this flexibility in definition may end up confusing readers who expect something more in line with the traditional meaning of the term.

                If the work does not present multiple explicit romantic relationships or a protagonist actively pursuing several partners, then labeling it—even indirectly—as a 'harem' can be misleading. Perhaps a more precise approach would be to describe the dynamic as 'close alliances with emotional nuances,' without using a label that carries such specific expectations.

                That said, I agree that, in the end, each reader will have their own interpretation. My intention was never to dismiss your analysis, but rather to bring a different perspective so others can evaluate with more context. I appreciate the civilized debate and, as you said, let’s leave it to readers to decide for themselves. Happy reading! meme_6 meme_7 pepestop press_f
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        2. Offline
          + 10 -
          I've read your and brother Ink Drunks arguments and I do think that you are a bit rude to brother Ink Drunk. You certainly have a point, but brother Ink Drunk is also right. Furthermore, he did say "harem smoke" meaning "harem ADJACENT". This means that it is not strictly harem but has similar vibes. When you argument, you talked as if brother Ink Drunk said it was literally a harem which he did not.

          At the point when I wrote my comment, I understood that it's not exactly a harem, but I still didn't have the mood for even something that is near harem. I even explained what exactly was what displeased me and those aspects can quite easily be applied to work with harem-adjacent tropes too.

          Anyway, I do not write to anger you or to argue. I do not wish for that. I just hope that we can be more understanding and tolerant of each other. Why not ask "perhaps he misunderstood?" or "maybe he has a different perspective" and ask the person without aggression? In that way, we could create a much more civil and pleasant discussion for everyone. satisfied
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          1. Offline
            + 20 -
            forwhat I apologize if my previous response came across as rude—that was not my intention. My goal was only to discuss the interpretation of the work critically, focusing on the points I find problematic in labeling it as 'harem-adjacent.' If InkDrunkWanderer felt offended, I regret that, since my focus has always been on analyzing the work, not the person.

            As for the central issue: I understand that the term 'harem-adjacent' was used to describe a 'vibe' or 'related tropes,' but I still maintain my concern that this kind of label—even if not literal—can lead to misunderstandings. Many readers associate 'harem' with explicit multiple relationships, so using similar terms, even with caveats, still creates expectations the work may not fulfill.

            My critique has always been about how this can affect the experience of other readers, not about denying InkDrunkWanderer’s perspective. I acknowledge that he has a broader view of the genre, but I believe we need to be careful with language to avoid confusion. In the end, I appreciate your call for more tolerance, and if there was any misunderstanding, I hope this message makes it clear that my only interest was to contribute to a more accurate analysis of the novel, not to OFFEND ANYONE! I’m happy to leave the matter here and move forward with good discussions in the future. :) exit wait clap
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            1. Offline
              + 00 -
              Thank you for your very polite answer. I am very happy we could come to such a civil discussion despite having some misunderstandings and arguments with each other.😁

              On that point, I see where you are coming from and think it is a completely valid point as it probably has given several readers misconception about the work. I deem that an acceptable compromise would be that brother InkDrunk should specifically explain in details and with examples the relationships he came to notice. Giving a more thorough understanding to readers on exactly what it is that happens in the story and whether that depiction falls under their specific understanding of the term "harem"(which are understood slightly differently by some people). In that way, the readers won't have to rely on the assumption that brother InkDrunks definition is equivalent to their own and they will be able to come to more clear conclusion.

              All in all, I would like to thank you for pointing out the possible problematic point in brother InkDrunks review and for having us reach a very polite and civil conclusion between each other.

              Thank you for your contribution!

              Sincerely, Astaros
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    2. Offline
      + 02 -
      Did you read up to what chapter? At least to chapter one hundred to give a review full of incorrect information? puke
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      1. Online Offline
        + 21 -
        I didn’t stop at ten chapters. I’ve read well beyond the first hundred and into the early 800s before deciding how to review it. So my criticism isn’t guesswork.

        As for the “harem” tag: whether or not the author ever officially declares it, the feeling is undeniably there. The MC repeatedly attracts multiple important female characters who:
        – are written with romantic undertones or personal attachment to him,
        – spend significant time revolving around his growth/journey,
        – and are portrayed in ways that blur the line between ally, love interest, or dependent.
        Even if there’s no confession or explicit “MC has X girlfriends,” the dynamic fits harem-adjacent tropes.

        That’s why I called it out: not because it’s a standard wish-fulfillment harem, but because the atmosphere carries that baggage. If someone enjoys that setup, good for them...but readers who don’t should be warned so they aren’t misled.
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        1. Offline
          + 03 -
          "Warning" readers about a potential 'mistake' assumes that your interpretation is the only correct one. Instead of 'warning,' it would be fairer to present your view as just that—an opinion—and allow other readers to draw their own conclusions based on the work itself. Labeling a novel as 'harem' or 'harem-adjacent' without solid evidence can actually mislead readers who either seek out or avoid that kind of storyline, creating false expectations. In fact, if I had read your review before reading this novel, I definitely wouldn’t have picked it up because of the 'harem' label—and I would have missed out on a fantastic work. butwhy swim blushed puke

          If the work itself does not fit the description of a 'standard wish-fulfillment harem'—which you yourself admit—then categorizing it as 'harem-adjacent' based solely on an 'atmosphere' is completely flawed. It is extremely important to distinguish between the creation of strong and relevant female characters and the author’s intention to create a harem. The existence of an emotional bond or admiration does not equate to a romantic or polygamous relationship. misery press_f
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          1. Online Offline
            + 31 -
            All right, I don't want to continue this argument brother. I understand your point ...admiration or bonds don’t automatically mean romance. Fair distinction

            That’s why I said harem-adjacent rather than straight harem. For ME, the setup.....multiple women with deep emotional ties to the protagonist, some blushing/admiration moments, and the narrative weight on those interactions,,,,creates an atmosphere that feels similar to what you’d expect from a harem dynamic, even if it never formalizes into one.

            Many readers I know use the term ‘harem-adjacent’ and (I used "Harem smoke" in my review) as a heads-up about vibes, not a checklist of marriage contracts. It helps set expectations. If someone is strongly pro- or anti-harem, that atmospheric feel matters as much as the literal outcome.

            Also you said "admiration ≠ romance." True. But repeated narrative framing ...where multiple female characters are consistently portrayed with blushes, emotional reliance, or singled-out attention with the MC...does shape the reader’s lens. That’s why terms like harem-adjacent are used: they’re shorthand for atmosphere, not contractual romance. troll2
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            1. Offline
              + 11 -
              Interesting arguments going on here brother. I admire you for remaining polite in face of accusations. Good job!
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            2. Offline
              + 00 -
              I apologize if my previous response came across as aggressive or offensive. My intention was not to attack you personally, but rather to discuss the interpretation of the work in a constructive way. I value the time you dedicated to reading and analyzing it, and I understand that your opinion comes from a valid perspective, even if I strongly disagree with it. You mention that your analysis does not classify the work as a 'complete harem,' but rather as something that 'leans toward those tropes.' However, even that statement still relies on an overly broad definition of what constitutes a harem. If any interaction between the protagonist and several female characters with 'emotional attachment' or 'admiration' is already enough to be considered 'harem-adjacent,' then practically every work with a relevant female cast could fall into that category. This would include classics that I deeply enjoy and admire, such as The Lord of the Rings (Éowyn, Arwen, Galadriel) or One Piece (Nami, Robin, Hancock), which CLEARLY makes no sense.

              Furthermore, you yourself admit that there is no 'explicit harem' in the work, yet insist that the 'dynamic' is there. However, without scenes, dialogues, or textual developments that demonstrate multiple romantic or polygamous interests, that interpretation remains subjective. A solid critique should be based on objective elements of the narrative, not just on 'vibes' or 'common tropes'. troll2 misery press_f meme_11
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                + 00 -
                Then I apologize if it has come to this. Next time I write a review I will infer what I have understood in our banter. Thank you and have a good day.
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                1. Offline
                  + 10 -
                  A very nice end to the discussion here my friend. I have also answered brother patriarch a bit above too so if you want to see the conclusion of that conversation, you are more than welcome to scroll up a bit as I've written a possible compromise and correction we could reach together.

                  Once again, I praise your humbleness brother InkDrunk! leocheers
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  8. Offline
    + 00 -
    TBH number translator feels better than MtL of a few years ago, I don’t mind it
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  9. Online Offline
    + 180 -
    Looks good but
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    1. Offline
      + 42 -
      Have you heard of our lord and savior Gemini Translation! 🙇‍♂️
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  10. Offline
    + 51 -
    (Pseudo D&D, Fourth Catastrophe, Red Dragon)
    i am instantly sold with D&D but it's the dreaded Translation Number escape
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    1. Offline
      + 11 -
      I love novels on this topic too, any recommendations?
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