King's Rebirth, New World

Arthur Leywin, once King Grey of a warlike, meritocratic Earth, dies and is reborn as a baby in the magical continent of Dicathen. With the mind of an adult and the body of an infant, Arthur quickly realizes this world is ruled by mana, not technology. He is born to loving parents, Reynolds and Alice, in the humble town of Ashber. As he adapts to his new life, Arthur's keen observations and mature thoughts set him apart, but he is determined to make the most of this second chance, blending his old wisdom with the innocence and wonder of childhood.

Baby Steps and Magic

Arthur's early years are a mix of frustration and fascination. He struggles with the limitations of his baby body, but is comforted by the warmth of his parents. He soon discovers that magic is real—his mother heals wounds with a touch, and his father demonstrates mana-augmented strength. Arthur's curiosity leads him to books, where he learns about mana manipulation, the structure of society, and the difference between augmenters and conjurers. His analytical mind, honed from a previous life, gives him a unique edge in understanding and experimenting with mana from a young age.

Awakening in Ashber

Driven by his past life's discipline, Arthur secretly trains to form his mana core, a feat usually reserved for adolescents. At just under three years old, his awakening triggers a massive explosion, destroying much of the family home. His parents are shocked but relieved to find him unharmed, floating in a crater of his own making. The event cements Arthur's status as a magical prodigy, and his parents decide to keep his abilities secret for now, fearing unwanted attention. Arthur's journey as a mage has truly begun, setting him apart from his peers.

The Leywin Family Bond

The Leywin household is filled with warmth, humor, and gentle rivalry. Arthur's mother, Alice, is nurturing and wise, while his father, Reynolds, is boisterous and proud. Their love and quirks provide Arthur with a sense of belonging he never had as King Grey. As Arthur grows, he balances his magical training with the joys and embarrassments of childhood—learning to speak, read, and interact with his doting parents. The family's resilience is tested by Arthur's awakening, but their bond only grows stronger, laying the emotional foundation for his future.

Journey to Xyrus

Recognizing Arthur's extraordinary talent, his parents decide he needs a mentor beyond what they can provide. The family joins Reynolds' old adventuring party, the Twin Horns, on a journey across the perilous Grand Mountains to the floating city of Xyrus, home to the continent's greatest mage academy. Along the way, Arthur meets colorful new companions and faces the challenges of travel in a world teeming with mana beasts and bandits. The journey marks Arthur's first steps into a wider, more dangerous world, and the beginning of his quest for mastery.

Twin Horns and Trials

Traveling with the Twin Horns, Arthur is tested both physically and mentally. He impresses the seasoned adventurers with his unique fighting techniques and quick thinking, earning their respect despite his age. The camaraderie of the group offers Arthur a taste of adventure and belonging. However, the journey is not without peril—a bandit ambush forces Arthur to confront the limits of his power and the reality of violence. The experience is a harsh lesson in the dangers of the world and the responsibilities that come with strength.

Bandit Ambush, Sacrifice

The group is attacked by a large bandit force in the mountains. In the chaos, Arthur's mother is revealed to be pregnant, heightening the stakes. When a powerful enemy conjurer threatens his mother, Arthur makes a split-second decision to save her, pushing her to safety but falling off a cliff with the enemy. The act of sacrifice leaves his family devastated, believing him dead. Arthur's selflessness and bravery mark a turning point in his journey, as he is separated from everything he loves and cast into the unknown.

Sylvia, the Dragon's Will

Arthur survives the fall and awakens in a mysterious, mana-rich forest. Guided by a disembodied voice, he meets Sylvia, a wounded dragon in disguise. Sylvia saves his life and, over months of companionship, imparts wisdom, training, and her own powerful will to Arthur. She teaches him advanced mana techniques and the importance of compassion over vengeance. As Sylvia's life fades, she entrusts Arthur with a mysterious stone and her legacy, urging him to live fully and protect those he loves. Her sacrifice and guidance become a cornerstone of Arthur's identity.

Lost and Found in Elenoir

After Sylvia's death, Arthur is transported to the magical, fog-shrouded Forest of Elshire, home of the elves. He stumbles upon a group of slave traders and rescues a young elf girl, Tessia, from captivity. The act of heroism forges a deep bond between them. Together, they navigate the dangers of the forest, relying on each other's strengths and forming a friendship that transcends race and circumstance. Arthur's journey through Elenoir is a test of his resourcefulness, empathy, and growing magical prowess.

Princess Tessia's Rescue

Arthur and Tessia reach the elven capital, where Tessia is revealed to be the princess. Arthur is welcomed as a hero but must navigate the complexities of elven society and royal expectations. He meets Tessia's family and the enigmatic elder Virion, who recognizes Arthur's unique abilities. The experience in Elenoir exposes Arthur to new cultures, challenges his preconceptions, and strengthens his resolve to protect those he cares about. His bond with Tessia becomes a source of comfort and motivation as he faces the uncertainties of his future.

Royal City, Royal Secrets

In the elven capital, Arthur is offered mentorship by Virion, the wise and formidable grandfather of Tessia. Virion senses the presence of a beast's will within Arthur and reveals the existence of Beast Tamers—mages who inherit the powers of magical creatures. Arthur's training intensifies as he learns to assimilate Sylvia's will, a process that is both painful and transformative. The royal family's acceptance and the support of Tessia provide Arthur with a sense of belonging, but also new responsibilities and expectations.

Virion's Offer, New Mentor

Virion formally offers to take Arthur as his first disciple, recognizing his unprecedented potential as a Beast Tamer. Arthur grapples with the decision, torn between his longing to reunite with his family and the opportunity to unlock his true power. With the help of the diviner Rinia, Arthur is able to communicate with his parents, assuring them of his survival and easing their grief. The experience cements his commitment to training under Virion, setting the stage for years of growth, self-discovery, and the forging of unbreakable bonds.

Beast Tamer's Revelation

Arthur's training under Virion is grueling but rewarding. He learns to assimilate Sylvia's will, gaining access to powers beyond ordinary mages. The process is slow and often painful, but Arthur's determination and the support of his friends and mentors see him through. As he grows, he becomes a symbol of hope and change, bridging the gap between races and challenging the status quo. The hatching of Sylvia's egg, resulting in the birth of Sylvie, a dragon companion, marks the continuation of Sylvia's legacy and a new chapter in Arthur's journey.

Messages Across Worlds

With the help of Rinia, Arthur is able to send a message to his grieving parents, bringing them relief and joy. The Leywin family, now living in Xyrus, begins to heal, holding onto the hope of Arthur's return. Arthur's actions ripple across the continent, touching the lives of those he has saved and inspiring those around him. The power of love, sacrifice, and communication across worlds becomes a central theme, reinforcing the importance of connection and understanding in a world divided by race and power.

Years of Growth

Arthur spends several years in Elenoir, training rigorously under Virion and growing closer to Tessia. He hones his magical abilities, masters the use of multiple elements, and learns to control his beast's will. The years are marked by challenges, triumphs, and the deepening of friendships. Arthur's bond with Sylvie, his dragon companion, grows stronger, and he becomes a mentor to others, teaching mana manipulation to Tessia and later to his own sister and friends. The passage of time is both a blessing and a burden, as Arthur prepares for the next stage of his journey.

Reunion and Homecoming

After years apart, Arthur finally returns to his family in Xyrus. The reunion is emotional and cathartic, as the Leywins are made whole again. Arthur meets his younger sister, Eleanor, and is welcomed by the Helstea family, who supported his parents in his absence. The homecoming is a time of healing, reflection, and celebration, but also of new challenges. Arthur's prodigious abilities draw attention, and he must navigate the expectations of those around him while staying true to his values and promises.

Academy and Proclamation

Arthur's abilities come to the attention of Cynthia Goodsky, the director of Xyrus Academy. In a public demonstration, he reveals his mastery of multiple elements and his status as a deviant, shocking all present. Arthur negotiates his enrollment, seeking protection for his family and the freedom to grow at his own pace. He chooses to delay his entry into the academy, preferring to gain real-world experience as an adventurer. The proclamation marks Arthur's emergence as a force to be reckoned with, setting the stage for future conflicts and alliances.

Adventurer's Path Begins

With his family's blessing and the support of his friends, Arthur embarks on the path of an adventurer. He balances his training, mentorship of younger mages, and the responsibilities of his growing power. The legacy of Sylvia, the love of his family, and the bonds he has forged guide him as he steps into a world filled with danger, opportunity, and the promise of greatness. Arthur's journey is far from over, but he faces the future with hope, determination, and the unwavering desire to protect those he loves.

Characters

Arthur Leywin (King Grey)

Arthur is the reincarnation of King Grey, a masterful warrior and ruler from a meritocratic Earth. In Dicathen, he is born with all his memories and skills, making him a prodigy in both magic and combat. Arthur is introspective, disciplined, and driven by a desire to protect his loved ones and live a fuller life than before. His relationships with his family, friends, and mentors shape his growth, while the trauma of his past life and the burden of Sylvia's will add layers of complexity. Arthur's journey is one of self-discovery, redemption, and the pursuit of strength tempered by compassion.

Reynolds Leywin

Reynolds is Arthur's father, a charismatic and skilled augmenter who gave up adventuring for family. He is supportive, proud, and sometimes comically overzealous, eager to train Arthur and see him succeed. Reynolds' past as a B-class adventurer provides Arthur with practical knowledge and a sense of adventure. His relationship with Alice is affectionate and playful, and his devotion to his family is unwavering. Reynolds' growth is marked by his acceptance of Arthur's prodigious abilities and his willingness to let go, trusting his son to forge his own path.

Alice Leywin

Alice is Arthur's mother, a rare and powerful emitter (healer) with a gentle yet firm demeanor. She is the emotional heart of the family, providing comfort, wisdom, and discipline. Alice's past as a guild worker and adventurer gives her a unique perspective on the dangers of the world. Her love for Arthur is unconditional, but she struggles with the fear of losing him. Alice's journey is one of resilience, as she copes with grief, supports her family, and ultimately finds joy in their reunion.

Tessia Eralith

Tessia is the princess of Elenoir, rescued by Arthur from slave traders. Initially shy and reserved, she blossoms into a confident and caring companion under Arthur's influence. Their friendship is deep and complex, marked by mutual respect, teasing, and unspoken affection. Tessia's royal status and magical talent add layers of responsibility and expectation, but her bond with Arthur provides her with the freedom to be herself. Tessia's growth mirrors Arthur's, as they both learn to navigate the challenges of power, identity, and belonging.

Virion Eralith

Virion is Tessia's grandfather and the former king of Elenoir. A legendary beast tamer, he recognizes Arthur's unique potential and becomes his mentor. Virion is sharp, playful, and demanding, pushing Arthur to his limits while providing guidance and support. His own experiences as a beast tamer allow him to understand the dangers and responsibilities of power. Virion's relationship with Arthur is paternal, blending tough love with genuine care. He is instrumental in Arthur's transformation, teaching him the value of discipline, humility, and self-mastery.

Sylvia (the Dragon)

Sylvia is a powerful dragon who saves Arthur after his fall and becomes his mentor and confidante. She is wise, compassionate, and playful, offering Arthur both magical training and emotional support. Sylvia's impending death and the transfer of her will to Arthur are acts of profound sacrifice and love. Her guidance shapes Arthur's philosophy, teaching him to value life, forgiveness, and the importance of living for others. Sylvia's legacy lives on through Sylvie, the dragon companion she leaves behind.

Sylvie (the Dragon Companion)

Sylvie is the dragon hatched from the egg Sylvia entrusted to Arthur. She is intelligent, affectionate, and fiercely loyal, forming a telepathic bond with Arthur. Sylvie's presence is both a comfort and a responsibility, symbolizing the continuation of Sylvia's will and the potential for greatness. As Arthur's companion, she provides emotional support, magical power, and a tangible link to his past with Sylvia. Sylvie's growth parallels Arthur's, as they both learn to navigate a world that fears and misunderstands their true nature.

Twin Horns (Helen, Adam, Jasmine, Angela, Durden)

The Twin Horns are Reynolds' former party and become Arthur's protectors and friends during his journey to Xyrus. Each member brings unique skills and personalities—Helen the sharp archer, Adam the jovial spearman, Jasmine the stoic dagger-wielder, Angela the nurturing wind conjurer, and Durden the gentle earth conjurer. They provide Arthur with camaraderie, training, and a sense of belonging outside his family. Their presence during the bandit ambush and their support in rebuilding the Leywin home leave a lasting impact on Arthur's development.

Cynthia Goodsky

Cynthia is the director of Xyrus Academy, renowned for her magical prowess and leadership. She is perceptive, fair, and open-minded, recognizing Arthur's extraordinary abilities and negotiating his enrollment on his terms. Cynthia's role as a gatekeeper to the world of elite mages positions her as both an ally and a potential adversary. Her interactions with Arthur are marked by mutual respect and curiosity, setting the stage for future collaboration and conflict.

Lilia Helstea and Eleanor Leywin

Lilia is the daughter of the Helstea family, and Eleanor is Arthur's younger sister. Both are introduced to mana manipulation through Arthur's guidance, symbolizing his role as a mentor and protector. Their innocence and admiration for Arthur ground him, reminding him of the joys and responsibilities of family. Their growth as budding mages reflects the themes of legacy, teaching, and the transformative power of love and knowledge.

Plot Devices

Reincarnation and Second Chances

The story's central device is Arthur's reincarnation, granting him the wisdom and regrets of a past life. This allows for a unique blend of maturity and innocence, as Arthur navigates childhood with adult insight. The theme of second chances permeates the narrative, driving Arthur to seek a life of meaning, connection, and protection for those he loves. His past failures and traumas inform his choices, creating a rich psychological landscape.

Mana System and Magical Hierarchies

The world's mana system is meticulously detailed, with augmenters, conjurers, and rare deviants shaping society's hierarchy. The color-coded mana core progression, elemental affinities, and the distinction between innate and atmospheric mana provide a framework for Arthur's growth and the world's conflicts. The system's complexity allows for exploration of talent, hard work, and the burdens of exceptional ability.

Beast Tamer's Will and Legacy

The concept of Beast Tamers—mages who inherit the will of magical creatures—serves as both a source of power and a metaphor for legacy. Sylvia's will, passed to Arthur, is a gift and a burden, requiring assimilation and self-mastery. The hatching of Sylvie and the revelation of Arthur's dragon heritage introduce themes of destiny, secrecy, and the dangers of being different.

Found Family and Emotional Bonds

Arthur's relationships—with his parents, mentors, friends, and companions—are the emotional core of the story. The trauma of separation, the joy of reunion, and the pain of sacrifice drive the narrative's emotional arc. The found family motif, from the Twin Horns to the Eraliths, underscores the importance of connection and support in a world fraught with danger.

Communication Across Worlds

The use of divination and magical communication allows Arthur to reach his grieving parents, providing closure and hope. This device reinforces the themes of love transcending distance and the power of words to heal and unite. It also highlights the limitations and possibilities of magic as a tool for connection.

Coming of Age and Self-Discovery

Arthur's journey is marked by milestones—awakening, training, sacrifice, mentorship, and teaching others. Each stage challenges his identity, values, and sense of purpose. The narrative structure, with time skips and shifting perspectives, mirrors the nonlinear path of growth and the interplay between past, present, and future.

Analysis

The Beginning After the End, Vol. 1, is a masterful blend of reincarnation fantasy, coming-of-age drama, and magical adventure. At its heart, the story explores the quest for meaning and connection in a world where power is both a blessing and a curse. Arthur's journey from king to child, from prodigy to protector, is a meditation on second chances, the weight of legacy, and the transformative power of love. The narrative deftly balances action, humor, and introspection, using the devices of reincarnation, magical systems, and found family to probe deep psychological themes—trauma, redemption, and the longing for belonging. The book's lessons are clear: true strength lies not in domination, but in compassion, humility, and the courage to forge one's own path. In a modern context, Arthur's story resonates as a call to embrace growth, cherish relationships, and use one's gifts for the good of others, even in the face of overwhelming odds.

Last updated: October 26, 2025