Chapter 15: Chapter 15: Acknowledgment of Power
The last remnants of demonic energy crackled in the air, the swamp now a wasteland of obliterated monsters. Smoke and scorched earth stretched across the battlefield, leaving only one figure standing amid the destruction—Kael Drakon.
His crimson eyes burned with an otherworldly glow as he raised his hand. Electricity surged from his fingertips, coiling into a brilliant Thunder Dragon, its serpentine form twisting through the air. The storm-forged beast roared, illuminating the darkened sky as it descended upon the remaining monsters.
The moment it struck, an explosion of lightning engulfed the area. Trees splintered, and the ground shook violently, leaving behind a field of devastation. Not a single creature remained.
From a distance, Blue Rose watched in stunned silence.
Gagaran let out a low whistle. "That… was something else."
Tia and Tina exchanged glances, their normally unreadable expressions betraying a hint of awe.
Evileye's eyes gleamed beneath her mask. "That was 5th-tier magic…"
Lakyus frowned. "Reaching hero level doesn't mean one can use 5th-tier spells. Only those who surpass hero level can master them."
That realization made them uneasy.
Many warriors in the world could claim to be powerful. Few could truly stand at the peak. Those who reached and surpassed hero level were individuals of legend.
And yet, they had never heard of him before.
Before they could step forward, Kael cast another large-scale Thunder Dragon, sending a torrent of lightning arcing through the sky. The sheer scale of destruction was overwhelming.
Evileye stiffened. "He's beyond hero level."
The realization struck them all at once. Whoever this man was, he wasn't just an unknown warrior—he was someone who stood at a level most could never hope to reach.
Lakyus took a deep breath and stepped forward carefully. She had fought alongside adamantite-ranked adventurers, faced legendary threats, but even she felt the weight of Kael's presence.
"Excuse me," she called out, ensuring her tone was respectful. "May I ask for your name?"
Kael's gaze shifted toward her, his expression unreadable. For a moment, the air between them was thick with tension.
Then, he spoke. "Kael Drakon."
The name meant nothing to them.
Lakyus was surprised. Someone this powerful should have a reputation across the continent, yet there was no record of such a figure.
"I am Lakyus Alvein Dale Aindra, captain of Blue Rose," she introduced herself. "These are my companions: Gagaran, Evileye, Tia, and Tina."
Kael's expression remained neutral as his eyes scanned them, measuring their strength.
"Impressive," he remarked, his voice calm yet carrying a weight that made even Blue Rose feel like they were being evaluated.
Gagaran grinned. "I like this guy. Strong, mysterious, and doesn't waste words."
Tina nudged her. "We don't even know if he's a friend or foe yet."
Lakyus hesitated before asking, "If you don't mind me asking, what are you doing in the Forest of Tob?"
Kael had anticipated the question. He couldn't reveal the true nature of his presence, but he needed connections among humans. For now, he would offer them half a truth.
"When I arrived here, I found the Wise King of the Forest under siege," he said smoothly. "The creature fought bravely but was outnumbered. I decided to assist, and in return, it swore loyalty to me."
Hamsuke, who had been standing quietly behind Kael, suddenly straightened its posture, as if confirming the statement.
"Indeed! This humble one was in great distress when Lord Kael appeared!" Hamsuke boomed, thumping its tail. "Without his aid, this one may not have survived!"
Blue Rose looked between Kael and Hamsuke, piecing together the situation.
Evileye muttered, "The Wise King of the Forest… I've heard of it, but I didn't think it was real."
Lakyus, still cautious but impressed, nodded. "Then, on behalf of Re-Estize, I thank you for aiding a guardian of this land."
Kael gave a slight nod, remaining silent.
A moment later, Lakyus exchanged glances with her party before making a formal offer. "Given your actions here and your strength, we would like to invite you to Re-Estize as an honored guest. Your deeds deserve recognition."
Kael considered it.
He didn't need fame, but he needed access—to human resources, information, and a broader perspective on the kingdom.
"I see no reason to refuse," he finally answered.
Lakyus smiled. "Then let us return together. You will be welcomed."
With the arrangement set, Kael mounted Hamsuke once more. Blue Rose took a final glance at the destroyed swamp, still barely comprehending what they had just witnessed.
This was no ordinary magic caster.
They had just met someone who could shake the very balance of the world.
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Kael Drakon - Status
Name: Kael Drakon
Race: Demon God
Level: 45
EXP: To be added from this chapter
Stamina: 800
Mana: 2500 (Currently: 1,600 MP)
Mana Recovery: 20% MP every 20 minutes
Skills: Sky Spear, Teleport, Thunder Dragon, Voice of Dominion
Passive Abilities: High-Level Magic Damage Reduction, High-Level Magic Damage Increase, Negative Status Immunity, Demon Wings
Items:
3 Level-Up Scrolls (Grants +1 level per use, cannot be used after level 100)
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