[New] Regressing as the Reincarnated Bastard of the Sword Clan | Manhwa Recap | Chapter 1-32

Once betrayed once forgotten the bastard of the Ragnar Clan fell abandoned by his own consumed by rage but fate gave him a second chance this time Theo will carve his name into the blade of Destiny Bound by betrayal driven by Vengeance a forbidden power awakens a bastard dares to challenge his Destiny in a world of Honor and blood Only one truth remains power decides [Music] everything he will rise as more than just a bastard this time it's his turn howdy please like subscribe and leave your valuable feedback in the comments now back to the story

The Story begins amidst a battlefield drenched in Blood and destruction a once beautiful Noble estate Now lies in ruin with the maids butchered in the courtyard their Bodies strewn about some even set Ablaze the air is filled with the stench of death and the cries of the dying fall silent one after another Flames flicker ominously in the distance as those who dare dare not fight back are mercilessly cut down at the center of this Carnage two men Clash swords each strike echoing with raw Fury one Warrior his face Twisted with rage raises his blade High

ready to cleave his opponent in two but his strike is blocked barely as the Other man holds his ground blood oozing from a deep wound in his chest his breath comes in ragged gasps and yet his eyes are filled not with fear but with a burning desperate determination we are told of the prestigious Ragnar Clan the Guardians of the Empire's northernmost reaches their legacy spanning over a millennium known as the Great Northern wall the Ragnar Clan owes their strength to the dragon's blood that courses through their veins each member of the Family is born with

unmatched magical prowess physical endurance and Mastery of the sword except for one the man standing now locked in combat blood pouring from his wounds is the black sheep his name is Theo his opponent a robed figure watches coldly as Theo falters the blade cutting into his flesh once again even at the end the robed man says his voice laced with contempt you refuse to learn Theo there are some things that hard work simply cannot Achieve his eyes narrow as he drives his sword deeper adding people call that lack of talent Theo gasping for air demands

what do you mean the robed figure removes his bandana revealing his face renan a man Theo once trusted now his betrayer to not inherit the gift of our bloodline must be infuriating huh renan sneers his words dripping with malice Theo grits his teeth the pain nearly unbearable why renan why are you doing this Renan Chuckles Darkly his voice echoing with mockery watching you train every day tirelessly despite your lack of talent it was truly pitiful you thought hard work would get you somewhere how foolish he lets out a cruel laugh they called you the imbecile

of Ragnar and rightly so you should have stayed hidden like the talentless fool you are rage flares in Theo's eyes you were my teacher you taught me swordsmanship made me believe in myself and now you Betray us you sold out the Rose Palace our home to those bastards before Theo can say more renan sword flashes with a swift merciless strike Theo's arm is severed blood spurting as his scream fills the air renan sigh almost bored fault me all you want Theo but this this happened because of you he grabs Theo by the hair forcing him

to look at the devastation around them look The Rose Palace burns your household members slaughtered even your mother Theo's Heart shatters as his mother is dragged into view her lifeless body thrown carelessly before him it's all because of you Theo you were too weak too talentless to protect them Theo's mind races his heart filled with grief and fury no his voice cracks as he trembles unable to process the weight of his failure he lunges grabbing his Fallen Blade with his remaining hand screaming with everything he has left but before he can reach randan another sword

Pierces his chest sending him crashing to the ground a man from the Shadows steps forward his voice cold and commanding enough with the yapping renan finish it renan with a sigh breaks the tense Moment by apologizing I was just reminiscing almost done here Theo weakened and barely conscious wonders what renan means by those words is this really how it all ends after a lifetime of effort struggle and being mocked for his lack Of talent he finds himself staring at the collapse of everything he loved the Rose Palace burning his clan butchered and his mother murdered

before his eyes This Is the destiny of the talentless bitter tears begin to fall from Theo's eyes if only only I had Talent maybe things could have been different even just a little his voice is faint cracking with regret as he draws what he believes to be his final breath the Flames inch closer their heat consuming Him as Darkness Falls but then just as he believes it's over a status window appears before him illuminated against the backdrop of his despair the words are clear you have died Ragnar's Talent has activated return turning you to the

regression Point Theo's eyes shoot open he blinks his breath quickening in confusion he finds himself staring not at fire but at a wooden sword before him stands none other than renan the man who had killed him moments ago or so he Thought renan oblivious to Theo's shock casually says You seem tired we can end the lesson here if you'd like Theo can't comprehend what's happening he glances around round his heart pounding I died didn't I he whispers to himself this can't be real his mind races as he tries to process the impossible he's alive and

not just alive he's back in his past renan still there comments that Theo seems absent-minded today but for Theo it's much more than that he's staring at The very face of his killer is this a flashback Theo mutters in disbelief he feels a creeping sense of Madness wondering if death is playing some cruel trick on him in his final moments suddenly a status window materializes in front of Theo his vision sharp and focused on it tutorial Quest punch renan Theo looks back and forth between the window and renan unsure what to make of it his

fist clenches is this how flashbacks work he doesn't believe runan Can see the window so with hesitation Theo finally drops his sword bewildered and says I don't know what's going on but maybe this is a gift from the gods giving me a chance to let out some frustration with that Theo rears his fist back and swings it with all his might aiming straight for renan's face he lands the punch but renan doesn't even Flinch what's wrong with you renan mutters in shock looking at Theo Theo's punch felt weak almost soft is this what It's like

to punch someone in a dream his frustration builds no this can't be it without warning renan grabbs his waden sword again and Strikes knocking Theo off balance you said the lesson was over Theo shouts confused and angry at The Surreal nature of it all renan sighing as he regains his footing looks at Theo with disappointment I get it Theo The Awakening ceremony is approaching and you're frustrated at your your lack of progress but you're a Ragnar if you're going to hit someone use your sword not your fist with a dismissive wave renan turns to leave

I'll see you at the next lesson Theo watches him walk away his mind reeling the other trainees in the courtyard mock him their laughter cruel what was that hitting your master when you're the Clan's talentless joke how are you even a Ragnar they continue to Jer calling him incompetent an illegitimate child Unworthy of the Ragnar name Theo Kneeling grabs a handful of sand from the ground letting it fall slowly through his fingers the sensation of the grains slipping away confirms what he feared this is all real the pain The Sounds the bitter reality it's not

a dream suddenly the air around him grows cold a shiver running down his spine his eyes widen as realization strikes The Awakening ceremony it was 10 years ago no this I've returned to when I was 17 Theo breathes In disbelief how how is this possible before he can even process the enormity of what's happening the status window appears again congratulating him for completing the tutorial Quest Ragnar's Talent has activated Theo's breath hitches as the words Flash before him the reflection of the notification flickers in his wide confused eyes the window prompts him would you like

to receive your reward now Theo hesitates his hand trembling as he reaches for the Invisible button is this real he wonders before with resolve he clicks yes in an instant he feels it a strange almost Divine sensation coursing through his veins his chest tightens and a surge of power fills him it feels as if the very essence of his ancestors the strength of the Ragnar bloodline is finally flowing into him Theo's eyes widen in awe and disbelief he has been blessed with the talent he had always been denied the status window gleams brightly informing Theo

that he has officially received his reward his stats are set to increase at an unbelievable rate as the intense light overwhelms him Theo Shields his eyes still trying to grasp what's happening the blinding flash leaves him momentarily disoriented but the window continues announcing the commencement of the next Quest the scene then shifts to the Magnificent Rose Palace its Grandeur Untouched by the destruction Theo witnessed in his previous life we're Introduced to renan who places his tea down with a casual air I see he mutters his eyes distant to be honest he's never encountered someone completely

devoid of talent at least not until he met Theo we learn that his full name is randan Harvey a man who takes pride in being the so-called teacher to Theo yet behind this title lies a cruel intent his goal not to Foster growth but to manipulate Theo's lack of talent for his own gain renan with a confident smirk assures His Companion that's why I'm here I'll train Theo to the best of my ability and in 5 months he'll be ready for the Awakening ceremony the woman revealed to be Cecilia Theo's mother and Lady of the

Rose Palace responds with a warm smile I trust you I believe in Theo she hands renan a hefty sack of gold please give my son the attention he needs randan ever the actor assures her day and night my lady you will have my full Focus Cecilia's smile doesn't waver her faith In Theo unwavering I'm not worried I believe in my son but as soon as randan walks away his true colors emerge he laughs under his breath she'll have plenty to worry about her faith is misplaced and she doesn't even realize it renan scoffs at the

idea of Theo ever becoming anything more than a failure like mother like son their bloodline has no future he sneers pocketing the payment to him this money is a reward for slowing down Theo's progress and What's more someone in the shadows has promised to secure his future in exchange for sabotaging Theo's growth as Rend Dan exits the room he spots Theo sprinting down the hallway confused he watches the boy Dash past him without a word heading straight toward his mother annoyed randan clicks his tongue loser he mutters shaking his head in disdain meanwhile Theo runs

towards Cecilia calling her name with excitement and Desperation his chest heaves from the Sprint but he doesn't care as soon as she turns around he hugs her tightly Cecilia startled by the sudden display of affection asks what's gotten into you you must be exhausted from today's training tears of joy well up in Theo's eyes the relief of seeing his mother alive Untouched by the horrors of his past overwhelms him he Embraces her even tighter I've I've come back he whispers his voice cracking with emotion memories of seeing her lifeless body Flash before His eyes and

the weight of those moments hits him hard this time he tells himself things will be different Cecilia confused by her son's Behavior asks Theo what's wrong Theo wipes his eyes determination flooding his veins I was weak before but if that message window is real I can change everything I can become stronger his resolve is clear he'll fight in the succession War for the throne and this time he won't lose he'll protect his mother and ensure Their safety he'll defeat renan the man who betrayed them his thoughts burn with a newfound rage Theo knows he's been

given a second chance and revenge is high on his list he won't rest until renan pays for what he's done a status window appears before him displaying his next Quest train your body to the Limit 0% of 100% that night Theo runs through the darkness sweat dripping down his face as he pushes himself Beyond his limits I'll take my revenge he mutters Through gritted teeth but he knows it won't come easy his body is still too weak he needs to grow stronger first in his past life Theo had dabbled in an intelligence Network called the

black snow a covert agency known for its web of Secrets back then his skills were worthless and he was relegated to the sidelines but now he sees an opportunity he recalls a powerful Elixir known as the bloody sword Emperor's Elixir a potion said to dramatically strengthen One's body this was one of many things he had learned from his time in the black snow but never had the talent to fully utilize now however things are different Theo keeps running determined to achieve the impossible his Ragnar's Talent has awakened and with it doors that were once closed

have now swung wide open every step forward feels like progress and by morning he's already achieved 27% of his goal a group of trainees watching from a distance murmur Amongst themselves how many laps has he done without stopping was he always this fit one of them asks astonished another shakes his head in disbelief no way that's not the same Theo we've been training with something's changed Theo with a renewed sense of determination silently vows to push his body Beyond what he ever thought possible I'll run harder than I ever did before and I'll swing the

sword until I can't lift my arms anymore he mutters through clenched Teeth in this second chance at life he swore he'd go beyond every limit that once held him back training until his muscle screamed and his breath came in ragged gasps he knew that true power was waiting for him on the other side of this hardship as Theo trained relentlessly the status window reflected his progress he had reached reached 65% of his goal but there was no time for rest each swing of the sword brought him closer every footstep echoing his Commitment to rewriting his

fate the days passed in a blur and his training only intensified as night fell over the training grounds once again someone observed him quietly Evelyn Vil the training grounds manager yawned watching as Theo's blade cut through the air with Relentless Precision she shook her head murmuring they called him the imbecile of Ragnar but from what I've seen there's no way someone like him is talentless her eyes followed Theo as he Swung his sword over and over without hesitation as though the world around him had ceased to exist his eyes burning with fiery determination showed no

sign of surrender even as his body neared exhaustion Theo now at 97% felt the weight of every breath but the fire within him only burned brighter his mind wandered back to the previous night when he had been resting after reaching 90% only for the percentage to drop the system had taught him a harsh Lesson there was no room for rest he had to push himself to the edge of his physical limits or risk losing everything again no breaks they're not letting me rest at all Theo growled his voice strained but Fierce he gripped his sword

Tighter and swung once more sweat pouring from his brow I'll finish this he vowed with another powerful strike he gained another percent his legs shook with fatigue but he refused to stop just a little more I'm almost there he Whispered to himself dashing across the training ground with everything he had left Evelyn watched in awe as Theo seemingly on the verge of collapse sprinted around the arena like a madman how is he still moving she muttered shaking her head in disbelief his body screamed for rest but his Spirit refused to yield Theo continued running his

vision blurring his body teetering on the edge of Consciousness then finally the window flashed 99% 100% the instant relief flooded through him and Theo's legs gave out he fell to the ground utterly drained as he lay there gasping for air the system window appeared again announcing second tutorial Quest completed reward dragon's heart obtained a bonus message followed due to completing the quest in record time you have been granted 10 years worth of your past life's magic power Theo's lips curled into a faint smile though his body was too exhausted to Celebrate the system asked if

he wanted to claim his reward now with a trembling hand Theo raised it just High enough to tap yes instantly a wave of energy surged through him filling his body with a radiant blue aura it wrapped around him cocooning him in its power Evelyn still watching from the sidelines felt the shock waves emanating from Theo and gasped the ground beneath her feet trembled as the aura grew more intense a few hours later Theo opened his eyes Blinking against the sunlight streaming in from a nearby window confused confused he looked around this wasn't the training ground

where am I he wondered aloud just then Evelyn entered the room her face a mixture of concern and curiosity you're in the break room of training ground 4 she explained offering him a drink even a Ragnar can collapse when they push themselves to the brink like you did Theo's eyes widened you Evelyn she raised an eyebrow Surprised that he knew her name yes that's me I'm the manager here you lost Consciousness while training I moved you here to rest Theo nodded his mind still processing everything thank you he muttered taking the drink she offered but

Evelyn wasn't done she leaned in slightly her eyes sharp surely you're aware of the Ragnar Clan's rule about opening one's Mana Hall before the Awakening ceremony she asked her tone filled with caution Theo's throat Tightened but he kept his composure of course I know he said taking a sip of the drink Evelyn's gaze didn't waver then you also know what happens if someone breaks that rule right Theo met her eyes curiosity sparking in his own why are you asking me this Evelyn's expression darkened slightly because right before you passed out there was a massive Mana

wave one that's only seen when someone forcibly opens their Mana Hall Theo's heart raced when her tone Suddenly shifted the seriousness in her voice catching him off guard did you really open it she asked her eyes narrowing with suspicion Theo's mind spun open what he quickly realized she was referring to his Mana Hall he forced a nervous laugh trying to sound casual if I'd opened it I wouldn't still be alive would I despite his attempt at lightness he could feel a strange sensation deep in his chest the faint pulse of the Dragon heart he had

Obtained as a reward Bo sweat Beed on his forehead as he tried to keep calm she must be mistaken about the Mana he thought his heart pounding harder we learned that the dragon heart serves as a conduit where a manaal could be placed making it significantly more efficient than normal typically a manaal is located in the lower abdomen because no human heart can withstand the stress of holding one that's why Warriors like the Ragnar family long for a dragon heart It's a shortcut to overwhelming power but until now no human had ever been able to

surpass their physical limitations and possess one Theo however had managed to obtain what others could only dream of he couldn't help but think these Quest rewards sure are incredible but now I'm in an awkward position his situation with Evelyn was tricky she wasn't just anyone she was a high-ranked swordsman a formidable Warrior who had once led the white armored Dragon Cavalry before retiring after losing her left arm to despite her current role as the training ground manager her Legacy spoke volumes even the Fearsome demon dragon of the Cavalry had respected her Evelyn was known for

being fiercely principled caring nothing for status or strength only for honesty Theo knew that if she found out the truth about his Dragon heart she wouldn't hesitate to execute him right there on the spot he nervously weighed his options what do I Tell her he thought feeling the pressure mounting he remembered that Evelyn had once stripped him of his position when he was inflexible during training if she discovered his Mana hall now it would Spell immediate death but if I don't get caught his mind raised trying to think his way out he decided to use

her own principles against her with a calmness that bellied his Panic Theo met her gaze and said Evelyn can you handle the consequences of spreading false rumors I'm an heir of Ragnar if the clan finds out you were suspicious of me without reason it won't be good for you she froze considering his words that's true she muttered knowing the weight of the rules she upheld he pressed on his tone firm do you know the punishment for humiliating an heir her face paled as she answered execution Theo nodded exactly so go ahead and check if you

must he took a deep breath mentally bracing himself for whatever came next He knew Evelyn was bound by the rules and this would make her think twice inside he was trembling but outwardly he kept his composure Evelyn's eyes narrowed as she said fine but rules are rules even for a Ragnar she infused Mana into her hand her expression hardening Excuse me while I check as she placed her hand on his abdomen to scan for a Mana Hall Theo's heart thumped wildly what if she finds out but after moment her expression shifted to confusion There's nothing

here she whispered perplexed you don't have a manah Hall I I was wrong her hands trembled as she pulled back her mind struggling to accept what she had just discovered that's not possible she mumbled Theo smirked inwardly relieved but playing the moment to his Advantage you see it now don't you he asked his tone sharp there's nothing to be found without warning Evelyn fell to her knees her head bowed low forgive me I was wrong Please execute me I will pay for my sin with my life her voice quivered and for a moment she seemed

truly broken by her error but Theo still in control of the situation smiled calmly of course you wouldn't find one he said dragon hearts are different from ordinary Mana Halls he explained that having a Mana Hall meant the user's Mana could be controlled and concealed at will something only a few people knew and the secret of a human possessing a dragon Heart wouldn't be discovered for years Evelyn's eyes widened as she realized the gravity of the situation but Theo continued he reached out placing a hand on her shoulder there's no need to worry you only

did what you had to do an odd unspoken emotion passed between them as she looked up at him bewildered by the sudden shift in tone you risked your life to protect the truth he added not many people would do that he stood towering above her Evelyn you are one of The strongest I will remember this it can only benefit me to have someone like you in my debt Theo turned to leave but not before throwing her one final glance the reason opening a Mana Hall before the Awakening ceremony is forbidden is that it could cause

the Mana to overflow risking the life of the user the fact that you were concerned about me a bastard of Ragnar kind of makes me happy as he exited the room he thanked her for caring for him after he'd collapsed Behind him Evelyn remained Frozen in place her mind reeling wondering what had just happened what in the world just happened she thought still kneeling Theo walked away with a sense of satisfaction with a dragon heart combined with 10 years worth of my past life's magic power he smiled to himself self knowing that his journey had

only just begun the story fast forwards to a few days later where renan is yelling at the top of his lungs visibly frustrated that's not it Swing more to the right his voice cuts through the air as Theo stands with his training sword in hand renan's exasperation grows asking how many times do I have to explain something this simple to you Theo however couldn't care less internally he grins think it's amusing how I'm growing stronger every day all while pretending to be weak still his disdain for renan gnaws at him he hates everything about this

so-called teacher Theo glares at him Knowing full well that renan is purposefully teaching him poor sword techniques he's making me look ridiculous on purpose Theo Muses his grip on the sword tightening the realization Dawns on him renan is not acting alone there's someone pulling the strings someone who orchestrated his death in his previous life who was it Theo wonders his mind racing suddenly Theo's eyes light up there's something I can actually do about this with new Found determination he calls out Rond quiet renan barks back annoyed no talking during lessons Theo's patience snaps I can't

stand listening to your garbage anymore he replies coldly his voice laced with def Defiance without hesitation Theo snaps his training sword in half tossing the broken pieces aside how did someone with Third Rate skills like yours become a mid-rank swordsman renan's eyes narrow his face flushing with anger what did you just say he Growls but Theo steps forward his voice Rising you heard me your skills are trash you're just a pawn keeping an eye on me he smirks knowing he's hit a nerve I bet you'd even struggle against low-ranked demonic beasts renan's annoyance turns into

Fury how dare you Theo doesn't Flinch his gaze sharp if things go wrong for you you'll have no choice but to reach out to The Mastermind pulling your strings won't you he challenges renan with every word Knowing this confrontation is more than just a sword lesson it's about uncovering the truth the scene shifts to chamelia Palace where a man throws open the door and calls out axian have you heard yet his voice Echoes through the lavish Halls the bastard of Ragnar is challenging his instructor to a duel next week axian sits calmly a drink in

his hand seemingly unbothered the man continues his tone filled with excitement it seems the kids blaming his Instructor for his lack of talent he might end up half crippled after the duel without warning axian hurls his drink shattering the glass against the man's face blood trickles from the cut as the man stumbles collapsing to the floor unconscious axion's expression is unreadable his voice calm but sharp why should I care if some bastard ends up crippled is tone oozes with disdain axian is no ordinary man he's one of the feared four hounds of the north known

by The title dark tiger sitting beside him is Remington narrow the silver lion of the same group though remains silent his presence imposing nonetheless another figure enters the room cutting through the tension it should concern you he says cooly this man is Ed Troon known as the Sky Dragon part of the Nine Dragons things could go very wrong if we let our guard down axian doesn't even Flinch his eyes cold that's only true for people without Talent he retorts glancing at His uncle you worry too much why get so worked up over a bastard Ed's

expression darkens his tone cautionary this is Ragnar we're talking about even the smallest spark can become a flame that consumes everything unprecedented things can happen axian however remains unfazed his smirk returning regardless this is a good thing that instructor will deal with it for us the narative jumps to a week later at the training grounds where a crowd has gathered to witness The Duel The stands his sword ready the other trainees laugh and jeer at him from the sidelines their voices blending into the chatter of onlookers Among The Spectators Evelyn watches with concern her brows

furrowed even Solid Snake is present and observing with Keen interest Theo raises his blade his mind focused this isn't exactly how I wanted this to go he mutters under his breath but he knows there's no turning back now we flash back to the moment when Theo Confronts Evelyn about her surprising suggestion what are you doing he asks his eyes narrowed with suspicion Evelyn always calm and composed simply replies it was only a gesture of Goodwill Theo if you're really planning to cut him out you have to be thorough firing him won't solve the problem he's

backed by someone Theo's brow furrows how do you know that with a sharp look in her eyes she sets down her tea and explains because the the way he was teaching you was Suspicious that weird sword style didn't sit right with me so I had someone investigate him the techniques he used were excessive unnecessary and off I couldn't help but wonder where such a disgraceful teacher came from Theo's mind races Evelyn never realized this in my previous life he thinks taken aback by her intuition is it because of what happened with the monel incident has

that caught her attention this time around Evelyn continues her voice Lowering slightly from my investigation all of renan's traces lead back to one place chamia palace Theo's eyes widen shock flooding him chamia Palace so this really is tied to the miserable War for the throne anger rises in his chest but he forces himself to calm down the surprising how much she's uncovered still I can't beat renan with my current skills he thinks his voice steadying what's your plan now Evelyn gives a knowing smile you're underestimating Yourself Theo you can win you've got more potential than

you think back in the present the battle rages on renan smirking with false confidence charges at Theo kneel now and I might forgive you he shouts his sword slicing the air with a vicious swing aimed straight at Theo but Theo blocks it his face not betraying the slightest sign of strain renan falters something feels off why isn't he struggling renan thinks swinging wildly again and again but Theo Deflects every attack with ease renan's growing frustration is palpable as he mutters how is this happening his skills this isn't the Theo I remember he's changed desperation creeps

into rendan strikes he swings Harder Faster but Theo's defenses hold strong in the crowd reming inton watches closely his expression unreadable while the other trainees murmur in shock wait he's not being pushed back one of them Whispers he's actually fending off the attacks Another gasps disbelief filling their voices from her Vantage Point Evelyn Smiles knowingly exactly as expected she thinks one week of my training was more than enough Theo is more than capable of handling someone like renan as Theo block another blow he allows a smirk to slip across his face who would have thought

things would turn out this way it was more than worth getting Evelyn indebted to me but one question still gnaws at him and without lowering his Sword Theo asks why are you helping me so much is it because of what happened last time Evelyn's smile softens but there's something calculating behind her eyes that's part of it she admits but also I know someone who would be very interested in you he's obsessed with collecting Talent back in the duel renan's face grows more panicked with every swing his breath comes in short gasps his attacks becoming sloppier

by the second this can't be Theo had no Talent not a shred he mutters the disbelief clear in his voice was he acting this whole time renan thinks his mind spiraling but why would he pretend to be so useless Theo seizes the moment his voice voice calm but laced with Venom who's backing you renan renan's eyes flash with panic as he tries to recover his composure what are you talking about did you really think I wouldn't notice Theo's voice grows darker you've been teaching me garbage This entire time and you expect me to believe that

was an accident that's absurd renan shouts the fear in his voice betraying his denial I worked hard to teach you Theo Cuts him off tone cold and lethal chamia Palace right you're working for them a shiver runs down renan's spine his eyes widen in shock and Theo's smirk deepens good Theo says quietly at least you're honest he steps forward his blade gleaming in the light and Whispers do you know what it feels Like to lose an arm renan because you're about to find out Theo his face Grim with determination dashes forward his blade swings upward

with terrifying speed targeting renan's arm just as renan had done to him in his previous life before renan can even comprehend what's happening his arm is severed from his body time seems to slow as the dismembered limb spirals through the air moving farther and farther away renan's face twists in disbelief his mouth Agape As he watches his arm detach from him pain surges through his body and with with a guttural scream he collapses to the floor writhing in agony Theo stands above him his expression cold and unyielding even Remington who had been watching silently widens

his eyes in astonishment at the brutality of the attack renan's screams of Agony fill the air but Theo feels no sympathy his heart is set on seeing this man suffer as runan struggles on the ground he hurls Insults at Theo rage and fear ear mixing in his voice how dare you he spits his voice shaking how dare you do this to me but Theo calm and collected steps forward each step deliberate and filled with purpose with this he says softly as if speaking only to himself I'm certain now I've become stronger stronger than before his

voice hardens and there's still more room for me to grow he crouches down leveling his gaze with r 's terrified eyes do you remember what You said to me last time Theo's voice is low but carries the weight of Revenge renan's face twists in confusion last time what are you talking about Theo's grip Titans around his Blade the steel gleaming in the light you said it was my fault that I had come to this well now it's your fault that you're dying here today Theo's words are laced with Venom the Ragnar Clan believes in the

rule of the strong and and you renan you're the weakest renan's eyes widen as Theo Utters the very same words he had used when he killed Theo in his past life Panic grips him wait please he pleads but Theo's blade moves with precision and renan's head is severed cleanly from his body in his final moments renan's Consciousness Fades his last sight being his own headless body crumpling to the ground Theo stands over the lifeless corpse Victorious the tutorial Quest has been completed and the status window appears before him Notifying him of his achievement for surpassing

the objective Theo is granted a bonus reward the window prompts him asking if he wishes to claim it now but Theo simply stares at the lifeless form of renan the man who had once tormented him around him the trainees who had been mere Spectators are frozen in shock he he actually one one of the mutters disbelief evident in their voice how is that possible Theo's just an apprentice swordsman and renan was mid-tier the Murmurs grow louder their astonishment impossible to hide but Theo isn't concerned with their awe his eyes narrow as he looks down at

renan's corpse with disgust I suffered because of this weakling in my past life he mutters under his breath but now now things are different he dismisses renan's corpse with a wave of his hand as the status window informs him of an additional reward an ability called Observation not only that but he has also regained one Year's worth of magic power from his past life Theo blinks in surprise at the additional reward my magic power again but his curiosity is piqued by the newly acquired ability observation what could that be before he can reflect further the

ground beneath him shatters as an overwhelming Aura fills the space Theo whirls around just in time to see a man land with the force of a meteor sending shock waves throughout the training grounds the aura is suffocating Radiating power that leaves the onlookers speechless Theo's heart skips a beat that aura the man calls out Theo's name in a booming voice and as Theo turns to face him he realizes it's none other than Julius Ragnar the demon dragon commander of the white armored Dragon Cavalry even Evelyn who had been confident and composed throughout the duel looked

stunned by his sudden appearance Julius Theo mutters incredulous what's he doing here how Long has he been watching Evelyn grits her teeth clearly annoyed at Julius for smashing through the floor instead of entering like a normal person seriously Julius must you always destroy everything in your path she grumbles under her breath Julia strides for forward his sheer presence exuding raw power Theo braces himself expecting the worst as julius's eyes glow a menacing red what did I do to deserve this Theo wonders beads of sweat forming on his Brow but to Theo's utter confusion Julius bursts

out laughing his laughter Echoes through the grounds and before Theo can react Julius slaps him hard on the back that was exciting he Roars with delight I had no idea you were carrying around this much talent kid you've surpassed your master Theo blinks in disbelief still processing julius's sudden mood shift Master Julius scoffs motioning towards renan's corpse though I suppose calling that trash your master Is disrespectful considering you just killed him and by the looks of it he had it coming Theo remains stunned wondering why Julius the demon dragon himself is here Julius still grinning

puts his hand on Theo's shoulder Theo he says firmly his red eyes gleaming come join the white armored Dragon Cavalry the trainees watching gasp in disbelief even Remington who had been silent until now looks intrigued no way one of the trainees Whispers unable to Fathom What's happening the imbecile of Ragnar got scouted into the white armored Dragon Knights the the disbelief spreads through the crowd and Remington his voice steady calls out to one of the stunned trainees has there ever been a case where an apprentice swordsman someone who hasn't even undergone the Awakening ceremony was

scouted the trainee still shocked by the scene replies not that I know of Remington observing Theo with Keen interest states Of course there hasn't it's impossible to gauge someone's true potential while they're anah Hall is still closed even if their swordsmanship was exceptional their magic power could be lacking he pauses then adds no matter how great Julius is even he can't be absolutely sure but it seems like Julius knows something the rest of us don't what kind of potential did he see in Theo Remington's mind worred with questions could Julius possibly have seen Something hidden

in Theo something the rest of them were blind to he wondered if julius's interest in Theo was a sign of more changes to come and perhaps a chance for others to catch the dragon's eye Theo standing firm amidst the silence takes a deep breath and with a Stern expression says I must decline the entire Arena falls into stunned silence Julius taken completely off guard looks dumbfounded even Remington seems utterly shocked Evelyn drops her cigarette in Disbelief and the crowd freezes wondering what just happened moments later the trainees start whispering amongst themselves trying to make sense

of what they just witnessed the rumor mill churns quickly and soon after we see a maid sprinting towards someone in training her sword clashing against the air with exhaustion visible on her face word spreads that Theo declined julius's offer not because of arrogance but because he believed his skills weren't Yet up to the challenge a humble Ragnar one training remarks not something you see every day the rumors make their way swiftly across the lands reaching even chamia Palace inside the palace a woman Emil Ragnar the lady of Chamilia Palace speaks with a mix of frustration

and concern things have become complicated I can't believe renan was killed she says her voice laced with irritation Ed Troy vau standing nearby tries to soothe her worries there's no need for concern Sister didn't we assign renan because of his incompetence his death means little to us he reassures her with a calm voice though the tension in the room remains palpable Amil SI his death is the least of my concerns she admits the real problem is that the demon dragon Julius Ragnar personally reached out to Theo worse it seems Evelyn was behind this whole ordeal

this means we can't interfere anymore by assigning Theo a new master if he starts To gain favor it'll be even more difficult to seize control of the Rose Palace in the background axian Ragnar listens arms crossed frowning as he tries to follow his mother's growing worries what do you mean by standing out he asks dismissively you're making this sound more dangerous than it is there's no way the clan head will suddenly take an interest in Theo our plans can proceed as usual Emil's brow fur in concern I'm not sure you understand the Easiest way for

us to control the Rose Palace without offending the clan leader is for Theo to remain powerless axian shrugs his tone dismissive Theo is still powerless I don't care if Evelyn and Julius are interested in underdogs they've always had a thing for people with potential but Theo how much could someone like him really have changed Ed standing to the side Narrows his eyes at axan you're taking this too lightly he warns we should have told renan to avoid Any rash decisions but axian remains unfaced mother and Uncle you worry too much I'll pay Theo a visit

myself I'll play with him for a bit and make sure he knows his place back at the training grounds the atmosphere is calmer as Evelyn approaches Theo you did a good job today she Praises him Theo wiping the sweat from his brow nods thanks it's definitely different learning from a real master Evelyn grins it would have been better if you had joined the white Armored Dragon Cavalry why did you turn it down Theo pauses for a moment contemplating her question I'd be lying if I said I didn't regret it a little he admits in my

past life it was a dream of mine but now now it's not enough I need more joining the Cavalry now would limit me he straightens up his eyes filled with determination if I can be the top performer in The Awakening ceremony the Privileges that come with that will far surpass anything the white armored Dragon Cavalry can offer so for now I'll keep training with you that's all I need until the ceremony Evelyn clearly impressed Smiles proudly I like that answer Julius won't be disappointed either satisfied Theo decides to test his newly acquired ability observation he

glances at Evelyn focusing on her with with this skill Theo activated his observation skill and the details of Evelyn's age title Rank and even her current status flashed before him it was Then that he learned something surprising she held a deep admiration for Theo's humility and character Theo realized just how powerful this skill was this is going to be incredibly useful he thought already plotting ways to take full advantage of it in the future but as he continued reading another detail stood out her status mentioned a longing for the white armored Dragon Cavalry the group

she once LED with pride before he could dive Deeper into his thoughts a voice interrupted him pardon me a figure approached introducing himself as Cil daa from the southern inspection post Theo glanced at him instinctively activating observation once again the result was surprising and strange syble's title read as the duns of the Southern inspection post an odd sensation crept over Theo as cibil's eagerness to fight became apparent it was as if he harbored an odd longing Toward Theo this is unsettling Theo thought with growing unease is this guy some kind of freak the final tutorial

Quest flashed before Theo's eyes discard the title imbecile of Ragnar cibil then spoke with surprising boldness I would like to follow you young Master Theo to be honest I ignored you all this time because I truly believed that the title imbecile of Ragnar fit you perfectly Theo's gaze darkened for a brief moment contemplating whether he should finish Him off right there and then but before he could act on his thoughts continued but now I realize I was wrong every morning I've watched you train harder than anyone else your efforts were clear during your fight with

rendan you even got the attention of Lord Julius now you are my idol the tension in the air was palpable Theo wasn't sure whether cibil was genuine or just insane but based on his observation skill it seemed cibil's intentions were pure this is unexpected Theo admitted to himself after defeating rendan and gaining Lord Julius attention Theo expected jealousy and challenges from those seeking to prove themselves but he had never anticipated someone like syil eager to follow him Theo thought carefully about what this meant even in a world of Warriors driven by Pride there were still

those like syil with honor Theo began to see that having loyal followers could be crucial if he was to rise as the clan head the Opportunity was before him and with this Final Quest he could finally rid himself of the title that had Shackled him his entire previous life glancing at Evelyn Theo asked would you give me a moment to spar with him Evelyn nodded approvingly of course show him what you've got she said with a knowing smile Theo adopted a formal stance and introduced himself Theo Ragnar Apprentice swordsman my master is Evelyn former commander

of the white armored Dragon Cavalry Evelyn's Smile widened as she heard her name spoken with such respect cibil responded in kind offering his own introduction cibil Dera Southern inspection post he said proudly though Theo already knew his title as the dun they also learned that cibil had inherited the swordsmanship of the hanavi clan specializing in the quick swword technique I'm looking forward to this cibil added with anticipation without hesitation cibil dashed forward Screaming as he Unleashed a rapid flurry of attacks Theo blocked each strike effortlessly analyzing cibil's speed he's faster than I expected Theo mused

surprised by the intensity of the assault despite his unfortunate title cibil was quick and Relentless even if he's called a fool his speed is no joke Theo thought to himself as Theo parried each blow he reflected on how difficult this battle would have been in his previous life back then he would have Struggled to handle even a few of cibil EST strikes but now now he was different stronger more skilled with calculated Precision Theo reared back his sword and swung with such force that it sent cibil flying across the training ground the impact was enough

to make cibil cough up blood and he crashed into the far wall with a loud thud despite his condition smiled as he struggled to his feet as expected of you master Theo I've learned a lot from this fight he said panting And wiping the blood from his lips Theo stared at his reflection in his blade for a moment lost in thought suddenly an idea struck him could his observation skill be used on himself he activated it and to his surprise it worked his title talents and stats all appeared before him though four of his talents

remained locked marked as access denied his level showed as one and his stats were visible but a strange field at the bottom was locked as well its contents hidden from Him what caught Theo's I was his luck stat it was negative a chill ran down his spine no wonder I was cursed in my previous life Theo muttered could his string of misfortunes have all stemmed from this cursed stat I'll have to find a way to raise my luck he resolved luck would become another important element in his path to strength alongside uncovering his hidden talents

and overcoming the obstacles in his way as Theo stood lost in thought he suddenly Became aware that he was surrounded by the other trainees all staring at him with curious intensity he wondered what was going on then Evelyn stepped forward and said no matter how weak rendan was he was still a mid-ranked swordsman the fact that you defeated him has earned you recognition especially from Commander Julius among the Ragnar Clan when someone demonstrates strength there are typically two reactions they either become the subject of Envy or admiration Judging by their faces it seems you've become

the latter the surrounding trainees nodded murmuring to each other confirming what Evelyn said it seems like the rumors were true if we were in Sybil's place we doubt we could have even blocked Theo's sword they began to give off an aura of battle hungry energy eager to test their own skills against Theo Theo sighed realizing he had to keep up appearances he called out to one of the trainees he had already observed Using his observation skill a man named eot the trainee was visibly surprised that Theo remembered his name step forward yot I look forward

to our sparring match Theo said calmly eodi straightened up and replied it's an honor young Master Theo I am eodi naron the third son of Viscount Narin and I have trained in the swordsmanship style known as double Ascension the two men prepared for battle and after exchanging a few respectful nods they clashed Blades Theo's basic swordsmanship proficiency steadily increased as they fought his movements becoming more fluid and precise EOD determined to prove his worth launched a heavy swing aiming straight for Theo's neck Theo glanced at the incoming strike but did not panic with calculated ease

he deflected the blow and knocked iod's sword from his grasp his proficiency increased again and the fight was over as quickly as it had begun iodi stood stunned staring at The empty space where his sword had been it's my loss he admitted humbly Bowing in defeat Theo gave a small nod of approval realizing his luck stat had increased by one so luck is tied to gaining approval Theo thought he also gained some experience points from The Spar Theo set his goal to continue fighting as many trainees as possible raising his luck by gaining their respect

soon enough he won over bat romiro which added another point to his Luck after that Eric Manfred nber and Manuel norf followed suit trainee after trainee stepped forward and with each Victory Theo's skills grew his reputation cementing itself further among the crowd he fought so many in a row that by the time he finished he was visibly exhausted but his eyes gleamed with determination who's next Theo asked his voice slightly horar from exertion as the crowd murmured Theo glanced at his status window despite all his Efforts the quest progress had only increased by 1% perhaps

it's because these people already respect me he mused I either need to fight stronger opponents or showcase my abilities to those who still look down on me his thoughts were interrupted by a voice from the back you look pretty worn out Remington said stepping forward his tone was polite but there was an unmistakable Edge to his words are you sure you'll be okay Theo looked up recognizing the man Instantly the rest of the trainees were visibly surprised as well Remington was one of the four hounds of the north a legendary group of warriors in the

Ragnar Clan I'll rest when I need to Theo replied firmly but I'm not done yet Remington smiled impressed by Theo's resolve in that case I request a spar with you I want to see the strength that defeated renan Theo couldn't hide his surprise Remington was no ordinary Warrior known as the silver lion he was One of the strongest in the Awakening cere generation alongside Ray Ragnar axian and hulkus Lang all bearing the title of four hounds of the north as Remington formally introduced himself Theo's mind raced this was no ordinary duel Remington was a man

known for his sword genius Keen senses and being an extreme hard worker his reputation preceded him and his status reflected that he saw in Theo something he hadn't expected arrival Theo took a deep breath Realizing that this fight would be different from all the others Remington's challenge wasn't just for practice it was a test one that could change everything about his standing in the clan he had to be ready Theo formally introduces himself stating I am Theo Ragnar the 31st son of the great guardian of the north Kyle Ragnar and I am preparing for the

Awakening ceremony he adds with pride it is an honor to cross swords with the renowned sword Genius Remington nario the man I've admired for years he couldn't help but feel both excitement and nerves as he prepared to clash with someone of Remington's caliber ignoring the fact that this duel was part of his quest Theo couldn't deny the anticipation building within him this was a battle he truly wanted with every fiber of his being Remington ever composed nodded his eyes filled with a mixture of respect and challenge I too Look forward to this fight Theo let's

see how far you've come the moment they swung their swords at one another the entire Arena seemed to hold its breath their blades collided sending sparks flying lighting up the space in brief flashes of raw power Theo could feel the weight of Remington's sword through each strike every move the silver lion made was calculated and forceful his quest's progress Rose by 1% but that didn't matter right now What mattered was this Exhilarating Clash then with a loud grinding sound something unexpected happened Theo's sword splintered under the pressure of Remington's Superior skill shards of Steel flew

through the air glinting in the dim light before clattering to the ground the once powerful sword Theo wielded now lay in ruins the trainees watching gasped in disbelief their eyes glued to the Broken Blade as it skitted across the floor Remington stood tall calm as ever his Unbroken sword held high Evelyn who had expected such an outcome remained composed though her sharp gaze never left Theo around the arena Whispers of shock spread like wildfire how how did his sword break cibil muttered in disbelief Manuel standing nearby shook his head with a resigned sigh it's only

natural Theo groan sure but defeating one of the four hounds that's still a distant dream for him as the pieces of Theos sword hit the ground Remington Turned his gaze towards them his expression unreadable then surprisingly he lowered his sword and gave Theo a respectful salute this duel is my loss Remington said bowing slightly much to everyone's astonishment your sword was already worn and you were exhausted from earlier fights taking that into consideration I can't claim this as a true Victory Theo still gripping the brok en Hilt of his weapon shook his head on the

battlefield no one will Offer such leniency I lost my sword Remington that alone means I've lost Remington's lips curled into a faint smile you're too harsh on yourself he extended his hand and after a moment's hesitation Theo accepted the gesture they clasped hands firmly both recognizing the potential within the other I hope next time we can have a a proper duel Remington said I'll look forward to that Theo replied his resolve burning stronger than ever Manuel and Cibil exchanged astonished glances the former Whispering he he was acknowledged by one of the four hounds this isn't

the Theo we thought we knew Theo's Quest progress jumped by 5% a significant leap and a smile tugged at the corner of Evelyn's mouth as she observed the outcome Theo knew he had learned much from the this encounter Remington's strength was undeniable and while the duel had been short it left a lasting impression despite his progress Theo Realized there was still a long road ahead his luck had increased by 10 points and his reputation within the Ragnar Clan had significantly improved but the quest's overall progress was still slower than he hoped he needed a bigger

stage something that could help him gain the approval of more powerful figures Remington sensing Theo thoughts suddenly spoke again Theo there's something more I came here for Theo looked up in Surprise curious about what The swordsman wanted I want to formally invite you to join the scaled Dragon Society Remington declared his voice low but filled with purpose At The Mention Of The scaled Dragon Society Sybil's eyes widened in shock they the scaled Dragon Society that's one of the most elite groups within the Ragnar Clan only those personally selected can enter Remington smiled slightly that's right

and I'm extending this invitation to Theo personally Theo Smiles at the Invitation and responds are you sure someone like me belongs in a group like that his tone is curious yet cautious he knows the scal dragon Society is a well-known group one steeped in Prestige Remington grins you're more than qualified honestly it's not as formal as it sounds it's a society for peers preparing for the Awakening ceremony nothing too serious he gives a knowing look but Theo can't shake the feeling that there's more behind it syil and the Others watching seem envious they murmur to

each other wondering why they're being left out Theo's mind races as he processes the invitation Remington's motives aren't clear but if it's centered around axian and his group at chamia Palace then it's the perfect chance for me he knows full well that this Society is filled with those who sneer at his very name but to Theo it's an opportunity to both progress his quest and gather information on axian Inner Circle he flashes a smile his decision clear I'll gladly accept that was all it took for another percent of his quest to rise Remington's grin widens

that's the spirit if you've got any questions don't hesitate to ask the first meetings in 2 weeks Evelyn watching for from the sidelines takes a long drag of her cigarette her eyes narrowing as she observes The Exchange she doesn't like how fast things are moving later that day back at the Rose Palace Cecilia bursts into Theo's room her face lighting up with excitement Theo she exclaims her voice Echoes across the room as she rushes toward him several Maids trailing behind Theo turns surprised at the commotion mother what's going on the room fills with the sound

of her clapping her Joy palpable I heard about your invitation to the scaled Dragon Society she beams with pride with axian the son of Emil and Remington present You'll be scrutinized from the moment you step inside everything from your attire to your manners will be under a microscope she begins measuring his shoulders fussing over every little detail you have impeccable etiquette I know that but your appearance how you carry yourself those are different matters her hands Linger on his shoulders her expression softening fortunately that's something I can help with remember I used to be an

actress Theo feels a lump rise in his throat as he listens to her in his past life he knew how much his mother despised that people called him the child of a common concubine she bore that guilt even though it wasn't her fault in the cold world of the Ragnar Clan her son's failures weighed heavy on her heart Theo had been blind to it all before she rests her head against his chest my dear son I've always believed in you I know you'll succeed Theo's heart tightens he Embraces her his voice soft but determined you

don't have to worry anymore mother every step I take now it's for both of us he pauses his eyes gleaming with a newfound resolve I'll show them the scaled Dragon Society won't know what hit them 2 weeks later the night of the banquet finally arrives outside Remington stands beside a carriage waiting his eyes widen as Theo steps into view dressed in formal attire that makes him look nothing like the boy He once knew Theo Remington's mouth hangs open in disbelief is that really you Theo Chuckles slightly self-conscious you're teasing me right Remington shakes his head

laughing no I'm serious you look completely different his laughter is genuine but Theo notices the admiration in his voice I've been training diligently Theo replies he recalls the past two weeks days filled with Relentless sword practice with Remington visiting daily Helping him hone his skills Theo's body had transformed growing stronger more agile he wasn't the weak Boy they once knew first formal banquet right Remington asks noting the nervous energy radiating from Theo Theo nods and Remington claps him on the shoulder you'll do fine but there's something you should know his tone shifts slightly becoming more

serious Theo's eyebrows Furrow in curiosity what is it Remington leans closer his voice low axian was the One who gave you the invitation he wanted to meet you the 's eyes narrow axan Theo's mind clicked as he realized that it wasn't Remington who invited him but axian a calculated grin formed on his face as he muttered well this is going too smoothly he turned to Remington masking his thoughts and said I'm looking forward to it deep inside Theo already knew he'd face a storm of mockery at the event and he welcomed it for him the

coming Flames were fuel Meanwhile back with axian the Man's eyes glinted with Mischief the imbecile of Ragnar was coming right into his lair and he couldn't wait to toy with him the mere thought thrilled him the scene shifted a carriage rolled through the city halting at a lavish entrance we've arrived Remington announced stepping down Theo followed him his gaze immediately locking onto the looming structure ahead chamelia Palace the very people behind renan's interference in His growth the same ones responsible for his mother's fall and the eventual ruin of Rose Palace in his past life his

blood boiled but his face remained impassive ready to go in Remington asked Theo his mind drifting between revenge and the upcoming confrontation replied with a casual nod yes as they approached the entrance Remington explained I've been informed that axian will personally greet you he should be right around here Theo's thoughts swirled as he tuned out Remington's voice it was clear why he had been invited the imbecile of Ragnar was causing a stir and axian wanted to put him in his place but Theo hadn't come unprepared he was far from the weakling they once knew this

time he would show them the new Theo his attention shifted as something caught his eye a faint blue glow from one of the palace Windows it was the same shade as the light that guided him through his quests was there something inside Theo Remington's urgent yell snapped him back into reality he barely had time to register as an explosion sent a white cloud of dust spiraling from where he had just been standing are you all right Remington asked clearly rattled I'm fine Theo replied brushing off the dust it was none other than flow a warning

shot Remington angrily turned to the window where the attack originated bar what the hell were you thinking from above a group of nobles laughed Mockingly relax Remington it's just a friendly greeting that's how we say hello to Brothers Theo's eyes narrowed as they fell upon axen his talent of sadism radiated from him like an aura of malice this was the psychopath behind it all Theo thought but instead of reacting with anger Theo smiled why thank you for the warm welcome dear brother I must say I'm looking forward to the party the unexpected response seemed to

unsettle axian for a moment but he Quickly laughed it off seems you've grown a sense of humor Theo I like that inside the palace people mingled and whispered their conversation centered around one thing why would axian invite Theo of all people sure he was part of the direct Ragnar bloodline but inviting the imbecile to such a gathering was unheard of still they couldn't help but admit at least Theo wasn't as hideous as the rumors had said Remington walking beside Theo apologized sorry about their Behavior they're usually not this bad Theo waved it off his lips

curving into a Sly smile honestly I'm grateful Remington raised an eyebrow confused Theo didn't explain but inside he reveled in the fact that they were already underestimating him it was a exactly what he wanted a perfect opportunity to crush them later his eyes drifted back to the blue light from earlier realizing it was coming from upstairs that had to be where his next Quest was located but he needed a way to reach it naturally Theo took a sip of his drink mind Racing for a plan just then axian began descending the staircase his eyes locked

on to Theo well how are you enjoying the party so far little brother Theo felt a bead of sweat trickling down his Temple as axian approached his menacing grin nearly splitting his face but Theo stayed calm reminding himself of the plan with a light laugh he thanked his brother for The warm invitation axian eyes narrowed as he closed the distance between them speaking in a mocking tone I might have gone a bit overboard earlier you'll forgive me right his words dripped with sarcasm and his proximity was suffocating but instead of reacting Theo played it cool

his tone smooth and disarming why apologize I only remember a greeting the unexpected response caught axian offguard and even Remington seemed bewildered axian barked out a Laugh patting Theo's back roughly much like Julius had done you're full of surprises didn't know you had a sense of humor you've changed and I like it he chuckled louder clearly enjoying ing himself the other Nobles watching from a distance snickered look at him smiling and playing along like a good dog one muttered what else can you expect from a lowborn Wretch like him he might be a Ragnar by

name but he's nothing compared to Tran's Noble blood their words Stabbed at Theo's patience but he swallowed the bitter rage building in his chest his hands clenched momentarily but he forced a grin the taunts about his mother about him wouldn't go unanswered for long even Remington was struggling to contain his anger as the other Nobles began to mock him for associating with Theo one particular insult struck a nerve illegitimate child just like Remington no wonder they're so close Remington's jaw tightened the Weight of their words hanging heavy between them the atmosphere in the room shifted

everyone realized that they had crossed a line Theo took a deep breath deciding it was time to act he wasn't just here to observe anymore it was time to make a statement he turned to axian with a cold smile why don't we give our new friends a proper greeting without waiting for a response Theo grabbed axian hand forcefully removing it from his shoulder and stepping forward facing The Nobles who had insulted both him and Remington the room fell silent as Theo casually picked up a wine bottle approaching the man who had spoken the harshest did

I I hear you say something the Noble's face paled but before he could answer Theo swung the bottle smashing it across the man's face with brutal force the glass shattered and the man crumpled to the floor screaming in pain blood streaming from his head axian and Remington stood Frozen in shock While the others watched in stunned silence how dare you the noble shrieked clutching his head Theo's expression didn't change as he swiftly kicked the man across the room his voice cold and calm who do you think you are insulting me that was just a friendly

greeting gasps echoed around the room as Theo's Quest progress surged from 41% to 43% Remington still in disbelief watched as Theo planted his foot on the Noble's arm pinning him to the floor now why don't You say your goodbyes Theo's voice was ice and without hesitation he crushed the man arm under his boot the sickening snap of Bones silencing the room the man howled in agony his cries echoing through the hall as blood pulled around him Theo's Quest percentage shot up to 58% and he relished the power coursing through him he looked around daring anyone

else to challenge him anyone else want to say hello at that moment for armed men leaped from the upper floors Surrounding Theo with their swords drawn their blades gleaming dangerously as they pointed them at his throat for your crime of harming the young Master you will pay with your life Theo chuckled his voice carrying a cold Edge that's how it should be he remarked sizing up the guards before turning his gaze toward the man leading them so who's this guy he asked almost lazily the tension in the air was palpable the others hesitated before one

of the Guards answered that's the third young Master of the hanavi clan his name is Ian Theo's expression remained cool but there was a flicker of recognition ah the hanavi clan one of the six snow Clans that stand behind Ragnar his tone shifted slightly now with a hint of condescension I guess I should have expected you wouldn't sit quietly while the imbecile you all look down on suddenly decides to act out his gaze swept over them so what the guards Faltered glancing at one another their unease evident the no longer intended to let anyone walk

over him he raised his voice brimming with authority do the dogs of one of Ragnar's Bannerman Clans truly dare demand my death his words sliced through the air like a blade are you all really prepared to take responsibility for what you're saying because I won't tolerate disrespect the weight of his words hit them hard the guards began to tremble the oppressive Or Theo was now exuding impossible to ignore sweat beaded on their foreheads as they exchanged nervous glances they had never felt this kind of presence from him before was this really the same imbecile of

Ragnar they had always mocked suddenly it dawned on them despite everything Theo still had the direct bloodline of Ragnar Ragnar the lord of the north the ruler of the six snow Clans declaring death upon Ragnar's blood could easily spell their own Demise or Worse the eradication of their entire Clan such a thing had never applied to Theo until now and it was becoming all too clear that times had changed one of the guards opened his mouth to apologize but Theo cut him off coldly Kill Them All Before the guards could react the sound of Swords

slicing through the air filled the room in an instant each of the four guards was beheaded their heads rolling to the ground in a sickening display of blood And finality the Carnage unfolded two too quickly for them to even scream Theo stood utterly unmoved by the Bloodshed around him the metallic ring of a blade being swung clean to shed blood from its surface echoed in the silence a figure stepped forward her presence commanding the room Evelyn as her blade gleamed in the dim light the room's attention snapped toward her axian standing dumbfounded didn't expect to

see her here and even he couldn't hide his Surprise the percentage indicator from Theo's Quest shot up to 70% but that didn't distract him Evelyn approached calmly and glanced at Theo when did you realize I was following you Theo smiled almost in Amusement it was a given he replied though I have to admit thanks to you being here I can flip the tables without a second thought he turned his gaze back to the bloodied scene the four decapitated guards and an unconscious Ian lying in the middle of it all the Sight before him was a

testament to the power shift he had set in motion suddenly a memory flashed a conversation with Julius his tone light-hearted but carrying that familiar Edge you told me you weren't going to take on any more disciples Julius had said with a Sly grin does that mean you've taken a liking to this one Evelyn's reply was measured but there was an undeniable truth behind her words he's certainly Beyond expectations attitude ude and Talent combined he's by far the best I've trained Julius had taken a sip of wine clearly enjoying the banter you did train axian too

didn't you does this mean Theo surpasses him without hesitation Evelyn had nodded in terms of raw potential yes he surpasses even axian Julius let out a hearty laugh slamming the bottle down with those two eyes of yours I guess you'd see things a lot better than I could Julius sighed deeply swirling his wine so you think Theo's been hiding his strength all this time it's hard to believe someone can change so drastically overnight his eyes narrowed slightly as he continued a person doesn't just wake up one day with Newfound power Evelyn nodded her gaze distant

as she pondered it does seem that way but what's odd is how suddenly he's revealing this strength like he's being hasty you know what they say rushing your steps only makes you stumble she looked up at Julius with Concern in her eyes I feel like he's being chased by something that's what worries me and his attendance at this upcoming party carries that same sense of urgency Julius set the wine down with a light clink if you're that worried it's probably because of axian you should follow Theo to the party it'll ease your mind she raised

an eyebrow what do you mean Julius chuckled his tone darkening wolf cubs searching for blood are bound to clash when they Gather the party will be no different something is going to happen guaranteed Theo will have to navigate a delicate hierarchy being built there his eyes glinted with a hint of Mischief as he placed a crisp military uniform on the table in front of her while you're there why don't you tempt him to join us you could come back too you know just because you can't ride a dragon anymore doesn't mean you're done you've got

responsibilities Evelyn after you bring Theo into the fold come back to where you belong Evelyn looked down at the uniform her expression softening with Nostalgia her fingers brushed the fabric gently and for a moment her heart achd for the days she'd Left Behind Julius rose already heading toward the door by the way that wine was great he remarked with a laugh of course it only tastes that good because it's expensive iive Evelyn shook her head but a small smile tugged at the corner of her lips back Inside the Chamilia Palace Evelyn's eyes followed Theo she

realized something then Theo had known she was following him the entire time he had orchestrated this entire situation joining the banquet with a clear purpose was he aiming for this from the beginning her worry eased slightly as she understood that Theo wasn't someone she needed to protect rather he was far more aware and calculated than she'd given him credit for but when had he first noticed her Meanwhile Theo was keenly aware of her presence he had sensed her the moment he'd gotten into the carriage as a possessor of a dragon heart his energy perception had

grown sharpening into a sixth sense the stage was now perfectly set he called out to Evelyn with a voice full of authority most of the people here have shown open disrespect to a Ragnar successor cand candidate what's the punishment for such a crime the tension in the room spiked Whispers of Fear circulated among the Nobles and many began to sweat nervously Evelyn responded calmly according to Clan law immediate execution is one possibility Theo let out a cold laugh since they're still children and haven't even completed their Awakening ceremonies how about we just take one arm

each and call it a day his voice dripped with cold amusement Evelyn didn't hesitate understood she said as she swiftly charged into the crowd her sword Flashing Panic erupted Noble screamed pleading with her to stop but her blade moved with Precision slicing through arms as if they were nothing more than Twigs Theo watched calling out the names of each person and their powerful family connections making it abundantly clear that none of that mattered in comparison to the Ragnar family as the blood pulled on the floor the percentage for Theo's Quest shot up to 79% one

man terrified beyond words grabbed onto axian pants Begging for salvation axian looked down at him his expression indifferent and why would I save you he asked almost mockingly this is just a simple greeting the man's pleas were cut short as Evelyn's sword gleamed severing his arm cleanly he collapsed to the ground screaming in agony Evelyn and axi exchanged brief glances it's been a while axian said his voice calmed despite the chaos around them Evelyn nodded indeed it has now the quest sat At 82% axian eyes narrowed as he muttered to himself realizing that Theo had

manipulated the situation so that even axian as a fellow successor candidate couldn't interfere Evelyn's blade had only targeted those who insulted Ragnar blood ensuring that the punishment fell Within acceptable limits Evelyn approached Theo bowing slightly I've severed the right arms of the 14 individuals you ordered me to she reported Theo's expression remained Neutral as he nodded good work what's their status if they rush to a priest immediately their arms can be reattached but their Futures as Swordsmen that's a different matter that's sufficient Theo replied coldly Remington who had been watching from a distance stepped forward

Theo are you all right he asked with genuine concern axian stood in silence his fists clenched as he realized the truth Evelyn and Remington were now fully aligned with Theo the title of imbecile no longer held weight his expression darkened as anger surged through him I want to crush him even more now he muttered his voice filled with venomous intent Theo took a deep breath glancing at axian with a calm confident gaze time to go he said signaling both Evelyn and Remington to follow axian glare burned into his back but Theo didn't Flinch nor did

he break stride instead as he passed axan Theo tapped his arm lightly and chuckled Waving behind him I had fun he said with a Sly smile waving goodbye as he walked away the moment was significant the tension palpable axian gritted his teeth hold holding back his Fury while Theo's steps felt lighter than ever he knew it axian was the final barrier with this confrontation Theo had overcome the last challenge to shedding his title the window appeared in his mind confirming what he already knew Quest complete title imbecile escaped he grinned Knowing that no one would

ever mock him with that insult again he had passed the final test behind him axian voice cracked as he screamed Theo name in Rage but Theo barely registered it he was too satisfied this was only the beginning the first step toward his true Revenge the rewards flashed before him revealing an experience Elixir that promised to boost him five levels as long as he was still under level 30 there might have been more rewards but Theo was too Focused on what lay ahead to fully take them in as the sun began to set on the chamelia

palace the scene shifted inside ail seated at her desk paused mid signature her pen hovering over the parchment her brow furrowed as one of her attendants whispered something to her repeat that she commanded the news was not to her liking and it was clear from the way her grip tightened on the fan in her hand the scene transitioned sharply to a Rowdy Tavern worlds away From the cold calculated Elegance of the palace inside cibil was practically bouncing with excitement raising his glass in the air a toast to Theo and his debut he shouted grinning from

ear to ear the trainees joined in all drinking and laughing the atmosphere full of camaraderie even Theo allowed himself to relax taking a drink with the boys the energy in the tavern was far more genuine than the stifling nobility of the palace back at the chamelia palace The tension escalated a sharp slap echoed through the halls and there was no mistake taking the source Emil stood glaring down at axian her eyes blazing with Fury you gave that imbecile justification and you allowed people to get their arms cut off she hissed her voice filled with Venom

axian barely looked at her turning his head to the side with a resigned expression yes he muttered her fan snapped shut with a loud crack as she lashed out at him Again does that make any sense to you how many times have I warned you not to take him lightly not only have you failed to pressure him into submission but you've also given him every reason to go wild her tone was bitter her frustration palpable she paced back and forth trying to regain her composure I told you before if Theo stands out it will make

things much harder to seize control of the Rose Palace through the window she gazed out at the distant Estate a reminder of what was at stake action's voice was flat barely containing his own anger you don't need to worry I'll handle it AAL spun on her heel her voice icy I don't want to hear it reflect on this reflect on how your childish impulsiveness nearly ruined everything axian clenched his fists his eyes dark with bitterness I'll keep that in mind as she fanned herself Emil let out an exasperated sigh who does he take after to

be this impulsive she muttered A voice from the Shadows spoke up smooth and amused he's exactly like you when you were young it was Ed stepping forward with a teasing smile Amil glared at him is that supposed to be a joke Ed raised an eyebrow shaking his head slightly no need to be so angry this incident might not be such a disaster after all her eyes narrowed in suspicion what do you mean Ed's tone was measured full of calculated precision The Rose Palace has always been Difficult to wrestle control over mostly because it's part of

the clan heads Herm even though it's a place for Third Rate heirs it still has the clan heads backing what we needed was a justification to act and Theo gave it to us tonight Emil's fan stilled in her hand as she absorbed his words justification Ed nodded his smile growing Theo's actions at the banquet caused quite the stir by injuring those Nobles he's provided the perfect reason To take legal action we can now move forward with our plans using the law to suppress him once we begin the Rose Palace will have no choice but to

submit to us amil's mood shifted instantly she snapped her fan open again a wicked smile forming on her lips how long will it take to prepare Ed's chuckle was full of confidence the preparations are already done by tomorrow morning you'll hear great news for now enjoy a bath and get a good night's Sleep he gestured toward an aromatic candle from the southern volcanic region of a crw that he had prepared for her she sauntered over to him wrapping her arms around him affectionately as expected of my brother she purred this is why I love you

the scene shifted back to the tavern where the atmosphere was much lighter cibil was practically glowing still cheering loudly for Theo's success Remington sitting beside Theo sighed and smiled I didn't realize how Much you cared for me back there he said looking at Theo with genuine appreciation Theo blinks in confusion asking what Remington is going on about wondering if his friend has had too much to drink especially after only drinking orange juice but Remington dead serious explains he's talking about what happened at the banquet while insults were being hurled at him Theo didn't hesitate to

step in when they turned their attention to Remington he's Ashamed that he couldn't stand up for himself Remington then glances over at Theo his expression thoughtful and remarks how surprising it is that despite being mocked ridiculed and belittled as an untalented illegitimate son Theo has grown into someone undeniably strong against odds where no one thought you'd win he says you stood tall you wielded your sword without hesitation against the palace a force no one dared to challenge And what makes it even more impressive he adds is that Theo did it for him Theo uses his

observation ability quickly reading Remington's thoughts he can see that Remington genuinely believes Theo stood up for him out of deep care which catches Theo offg guard it seems you've misunderstood something Theo says trying to explain Remington doesn't stop there however he reveals that despite his orders to strengthen ties with axian he's made up his mind he wish wishes to Follow Theo now the surrounding trainees witnessing The Exchange start murmuring excitedly recognizing that this moment marks the strong acknowledging the strong still unsure Theo hesitates I think your misunderstanding he says again but before he can elaborate

further Evelyn's voice cuts into his thoughts using telepathy she calmly advises let him believe it Theo this isn't a bad misunderstanding turning to look at her Theo finds Evelyn smiling Knowingly she adds that perhaps everyone just wants to be closer to him now he sigh surprised I'm not someone special he Muses wondering if all his progress his sudden transformation was truly because of this message window the thing that had brought him back in time that granted him the Ragnar's hidden talents and his Newfound power he Ponders if it's something deeper than his regret because this

window with its detail feels like something more however he Quickly brushes aside the unease whether it's some mysterious force or not it's helping him and that's all that matters as the banquet winds down Theo feels the weight of leveling up the increase in his stat points lets him distribute power as he sees fit shaping his abilities further it's almost frightening how strong I can become he murmurs feeling a small thrill but his immediate focus is on the Counterattack that will come from the camela palace That's what he has to be ready for turning to Remington

with a grin Theo casually calls him Remy asking if he could help with something Remington a little startled Chuckles and replies of course anything then as if realizing it for the first time he remarks wait did you just call me Remy Theo smirks holding up a piece of parchment the war for the throne between me and axian is just beginning it's going to be intense I could really use your help Remy Remington is taken AB back for a moment absorbing the gravity of the request Theo continues explaining that in the future Remington will become the

clan head of the narrow Clan his forces will be powerful enough to rival even the ragnars a silver lion suits you perfectly and I need you by my side for what's coming though surprised Remington accepts the envelope I've already pledged to follow you he says whatever you need Theo laughs grateful and then Playfully repeats thanks Remy but before either of them can say more someone from outside yells Theo's name urgently their voice echoing through the Halls the heavy door creaked open and knights stormed into the room their armor clanked loudly catching everyone off guard a

collective gasp echoed as they stood firm and unyielding like Sentinels of an ancient law these were no ordinary Knights they were the swords of the law medieval knights who acted as enforcers Their Stern presence sent chills through the air they approached Theo unfurling a warrant you're under arrest for threats assault and intimidation one Knight declared his voice echoing through the stunned silence Evelyn's face Twisted in disbelief what kind of nonsense is this she snapped her voice cutting through the tension but Theo calm as ever placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder it's all right Evelyn

he said quietly his voice steady but commanding don't lose Your head over this he stroe forward eyes fixed on the warrant his gaze sharp a faint smirk appeared as he glanced at the fresh ink the inks barely dry he muttered seems like you were in quite the rush to get this signed Theo's calm acceptance baffled everyone I'm ready he said extending his wrists for the handcuffs the knights secured them with a metallic clink and led him towards the door as he was dragged away Remington's voice rang out desperate Theo he shouted Theo turned a grin

spreading across his face a grin that carried more than just resignation Evelyn and Theo exchanged a brief look of understanding this was part of his plan she then noticed Remington gripping in a small piece of paper tightly something crucial was hidden in his hand back at the Rose Palace Cecil collapsed to the floor her knees giving way as the news hit her like a crashing wave why have they taken him to the tribunal she whispered her Voice trembling with despair her Butler rushed to her side concern etched on his face my lady it's because of

what happened at the banquet he explained cautiously they're accusing him of inciting Rebellion Cecil's eyes flashed with disbelief and anger how could they think Theo would ever do that she asked her voice Rising as she pushed herself to her feet her mind raced do they honestly believe they can bring him to trial over this she Demanded pacing back and forth the butler's expression remained Grim yes my lady the damage was extensive they say he destroyed the banquet Cecile let out a long frustrated sigh who could have predicted that simply inviting him would lead to this

she muttered but there was still hope flickering behind her words he's strong he'll pull through this no matter what that's just who Theo is her gaze drifted towards the window as if looking out could bring him back come Back safely Theo she whispered her hope unwavering inside the carriage Theo sat silently watching the city pass by through the small window his expression was distant his mind already working through the next steps it's been a while since I've been here he murmured to himself as the grand tribunal came into view towering and forboding the structure loomed

large an imposing Monument to justice but Theo wasn't shaken he was calculating after Everything at the banquet this won't end with just imprisonment they're taking me to trial he thought grimly bringing Ragnar's Heir before the tribunal they wanted challenge my right as successor the knights yanked open the carriage door barking at Theo to get out he complied his face still locked in that same confident grin he could see through their intentions they want to crush me completely he mused stepping onto the stone path but they've no idea they're Only playing into my hands his grin

widened as they escorted him towards the massive doors of the tribunal present the accused one night called called out his voice carrying across the grand hall as the heavy doors swung open Theo stepped inside his eyes sweeping the chamber before him for figures sat in elevated Thrones their gazes cold and piercing this was the moment if I'm going to show my cards it has to be on a stage like this Theo thought feeling the Adrenaline course through his veins among the figures Theo recognized two faces Julius and Ed members of The Nine Dragons the Protectors

of Ragnar's Legacy their presence alone spoke volumes about the severity of the situation in his past life Theo might have buckled under the pressure but today he stood firm his eyes locked on the figure at the center Osa Ragnar Lady of the plum blossom Palace known far and wide as the Sword Dragon her title Commanded respect beside her sat Wolf Gang Ragnar the head counselor an elder with a reputation for his ruthless judgment wolf gang's Voice boomed through the chamber cold and sharp Theo he said the single word dripping with disdain Theo acknowledged him with

a slight nod it's been a while Wolf Gang Theo said his tone casual almost mocking didn't expect to meet you here of all places wolf gang's expression hardened you know why you've been summoned he Growled to answer for your crimes without missing a beat Wolf Gang listed the damage the people injured the limbs lost all because of Theo's Reckless actions these families are now threatening to sever ties with the Ragnar family how will you account for dragging our honor through the dirt bastard wolf gang's words dripped with Venom his bias against Theo's illegitimate birth clear

but Theo didn't Flinch his eyes remained locked on Wolf Gang his face calm almost amused you're absolutely right right Theo said his voice steady I was Reckless far too Reckless Wolf Gang leaned forward his lips curling as if expecting an apology but Theo's eyes darkened I should have taken their heads instead of sparing them their limbs the room fell into a stunned silence eyes widened in disbelief as the tension thickened Theo's voice Rose filled with cold Authority those men were subjects of Ragnar a lord gives land and honor and in return the subjects give their

loyalty and their lives that's the code of chivalry yet they dared to threaten their lord his voice cracked like thunder in the hall had I known their betrayal would run so deep I would have executed them without a second thought for the honor of chivalry to stand they must be punished he locked eyes with Wolf Gang daring him to respond how could I stand idly by while Ragnar's Honor upheld for over a millennium was dragged through the mud by these traitors his voice echoed with conviction the weight of his words suffocating the Room Wolf Gang

nearly rises from his seat his composure barely holding the tension is palpable and then Julius lets out a laugh breaking the silence impressive he Chuckles leaning back as expected this won't end with just a simple punishment his words drip with a Amusement but they only enrage Wolf Gang further why do you mock me with such sophistry Wolf Gang snaps his voice sharp his patience clearly thinning OA however remains calm I've heard his argument she says her tone measured and in theory he's not wrong wolf gang's eyes narrow in disbelief wondering why Osa would side with

Theo but before he can speak Osa continues Ragnar is strong yes but strength alone doesn't make greatness a ruler who ignores the voices of his vassals and Knights will ultimately crumble tyranny alone cannot command loyalty Theo gives a small nod taking her words in stride I'll remember that he replies his voice steady as the conversation shifts more is revealed about Osa she's the first wife of the clan head known as one of the finest Swordsmen in the north while she doesn't seem overtly hostile towards Theo a lingering tension remains Theo knows from his past life

that Osa played a part in the fall of the Rose Palace Yet she speaks with an air of reason and Authority now her next words however are a clear warning I hope you understand Theo that the punishment you're about to receive is Justified Theo meets her gaze unflinching and what punishment would that be he asks Wolf Gang hesitates for just a heartbeat before announcing 3 months of probation Theo raises an eyebrow his voice calm but with an edge of disbelief The Awakening ceremony is in two months Wolf Gang slams his hand Down barking at Theo

for daring to speak out you'll learn not to interrupt he Roars but Osa intervenes her voice cutting through the rising tension I've already taken that into account you'll be allowed to participate in next year's ceremony instead and it's been decided that the 15 children injured by your actions will also participate next year Ed sitting nearby leans forward adding in his cold calculating tone thanks to the demon dragon's interference your Punishment is lighter than expected his eyes flicker with a hint of frustration but he's masking it behind a calm exterior it could have been much worse

we cut to Ed sitting at a table arguing with others his frustration barely concealed this isn't too bad he mutters strategizing delaying The Awakening ceremony brings dishonor upon Theo as the representative of the Rose Palace this disgrace will give the Chamilia Palace The Leverage they need to surpass Him his plan begins to unfold in his mind once it's in motion Theo won't be able to stop it if he tries to appeal he's walking straight into a death trap but his thoughts are interrupted when Theo's Voice rings out defiant and resolute that's exactly what I plan

to do a stunned silence blankets the room the weight of his words hits like a hammer and even Ed's composure cracks as a Sinister smile spreads across his face He covers his mouth with his hand whispering to himself what an idiot his arrogance knows no bounds this will make everything so much easier for me julius's Amusement doesn't fade as he glances over at Theo do you even understand what it means to he asks with a raised eyebrow Theo doesn't hesitate of course I do this isn't something that can be swept away with just 3 months

of probation his voice sharpens and this slap on the Wrist I'm not about to accept that I know you pulled strings Julius the room grows cold as Theo continues his tone unwavering in the proud and Powerful Ragnar and appeal Means War and I'm not backing down Victory is the only way to un cover the truth the Victor's words become law his gaze sweeps the room I expect to be rewarded not punished a sudden notification appears in Theo's mind a status window opens signaling the start of something far greater the System declares that he is now

entering the main scenario Osa and Julius exchange startled glances unable to hide their surprise at his boldness the status window reveals the path ahead the successor's path Theo's journey to uncover the hidden secrets of this world has begun and the first Quest is now in motion suddenly we shift to the branch of the Sarah Merchant Guild engulfed in flames the entire structure Burns as the mercenaries guarding it fall one by one Their bodies littering the floor some even cut to Pieces amid the Carnage Remington's Voice rings out cold and determined this must be where they've

been hiding just like young Lord Theo said the scene unfolds to reveal both Evelyn and Remington standing over a small chest their faces Grim with this Evelyn Whispers Chamilia Palace is finished back at the tribunal the silence is suffocating no one dares speak until finally wolf gang's voice Cuts through like a blade you would take something that can be resolved with three months of Probation and turn it into war his disbelief is palpable as is the Ang simmering beneath the surface you're beyond arrogant do you really believe you can stand against the combined forces of

the 15 Clans Theo unshaken by the looming threat looks up and speaks calmly that's something I'll have to handle myself in cases like this where there's such a huge gap in power Isn't resolving appeals through proxy battles the norm Julius leaning back with a smirk replies usually yes appeals mean deciding a winner and and a loser through War however when war is practically impossible due to a massive imbalance in power both sides choose a representative the winner is determined by a one-on-one sword duel a proxy battle naturally that means you'll be the representative for your

side Theo Theo listens carefully as Julius Continues it's almost certain that the plaintiff's representative will be none other than axian if that happens your defeat is practically guaranteed why would you make such a reckless choice you must be banking on something maybe hoping that either Evelyn or I will fight in your place but if that's what you're counting on you're in for a rude awakening Theo meets julius's gaze unwavering as the rule state will decide the representatives and the battle will Take place in one week how does that sound Wolf Gang Narrows his eyes instantly

recognizing Theo's Ploy he's trying to force Julius or Evelyn to act as his proxy Wolf Gang thinks but those two would never do it he'll have no choice but to fight on his own Ed sitting nearby Smiles Darkly I'll send axian he'll teach Theo his place through death his voice is low dripping with malice as he contemplates the outcome suddenly Ed begins to speak about the Choice of Representatives but before he can finish a voice Echoes from the back of the chamber it's cold calculated and sends shivers down the spines of everyone present I thought

you were a quiet child Theo the voice says drawing all attention toward the slowly opening door but it seems you've become quite skilled at crafting Sly schemes you've changed a lot since the last time I saw you my son the room falls into a stunned silence as the figure of Kyle Ragnar the head of the Ragnar Clan steps through the door his mere presence do Ates the room and all the nine dragons in attendance immediately bow in reverence Theo two lowers his head greeting him with respect I greet the Incarnation of the Great Dragon God

Theo's status window lights up in his mind notifying him of the next phase of his journey take over the chamia palace and uncover its Secrets this was the first quest of the tutorial as the blue Notification flashes Theo remembers the secret he had stumbled upon at the banquet regretting not acting on it sooner but now was not the time for distractions his Focus sharpens and his gaze lifts to meet his father's as Kyle strides toward him this this is the first thing I need to deal with Theo thinks as an unpredictable variable has entered the

game threatening to unravel his carefully laid plans why was his father here this wasn't part of the Script pal gestures for Theo to stand his voice calm but filled with authority I heard about your situation while passing through C begins his eyes sharp it seems you found yourself in a complicated position I also hear you intend to make an appeal through a proxy battle Theo hesitates for just a moment then straightens that's right K considers this his gaze intense if that's the case it'll be difficult for you to fight the battle yourself who Were you

planning to choose as your proxy Theo's mind races he knows this is a test but Ed's eyes narrow sensing something am Miss there's tension in the air thick and heavy Theo takes a breath then speaks with unwavering resolve there's no one who can stand in my place I was planning to fight myself Kyle's expression shifts into one of amusement and a smile slowly spreads across his face you will lose Kyle says bluntly his Voice cold and calculating Theo meets his father's gaze without flinching how can you know that if I don't try even if I'm

forced to bend I won't lower myself willingly Kyle's grin widens into a full laugh a rare sound that shocks those in the room he turns to the others his laughter echoing through the chamber did everyone hear that these are the words of my son he exclaims his voice booming with pride even if he's forced to bend he refuses chooses to lower himself There's no better way to describe a Ragnar his attitude it satisfies me greatly the tension in the room dissipates as Kyle's approval resonates but the storm brewing beneath the surface only grows darker Theo

takes a deep breath and responds with a polite yet confident tone I appreciate your praise father but you should know the proxy battle is just a decoy I have no intention of fighting his words calculated and sharp hang in the air as He continues the work I assigned to Evelyn and Remington has uncovered proof of Chamilia palace's treason with that evidence I'll win without lifting a sword Kyle's gaze sharpens a subtle smile forming in that case I'll personally offer you an opportunity he says his voice commanding yet calm as the leader of the Ragnar Clan

I want to test your strength just a single strike if you can endure it I'll absolve you of all charges and We'll forget this trial ever happened Theo blinks caught off guard by the unexpected proposal is he serious Theo wonders but Kyle's expression leaves no doubt come outside now Kyle commands turning toward the exit Ed's voice breaks through the tension his face pale with panic that cannot happen he shouts almost trembling his mind races if Kyle test Theo with a single strike and he survives it would mean the clan head acknowledges him Theo would earn

the Respect and approval of the clan something Ed can't allow Theo won't survive it Ed thinks desperately but if by some miracle he does it will completely shift the balance in his favor Ed gathers himself forcing his voice to remain steady the tribunal must proceed as planned he says coldly how can we let vassals and bannermen comment on the bloodline of your son Kyle's eyes snap toward Ed his voice icy shut up Ed if a vassel dares to speak out of turn Then you know what to do get rid of them Ed grits his teeth

biting back a retort but he can only bow slightly and mutter understood Kyle's sharp gaze shifts again landing on Julius who's been stifling his laughter for a while now Julius you've been giggling like a fool is there something you want to say Julius waves a hand smiling no nothing it's just been a while since you've taken such an interest in anyone Kyle dismisses his words with a slight scowl Nonsense enough Small Talk he snaps his attention returning to Theo so will you accept the challenge or not Theo's mind whirls realizing how drastically the situation has

shifted his plans have crumbled replaced by something far more dangerous and exciting a grin slowly spreads across his face a change like this is always welcome he mutters under his breath before speaking louder father that's too much for me how can I compare enduring your single strike to a proxy War against vassals and bannermen K raises an eyebrow does that mean you refuse Theo Chuckles softly I just wanted to point out how unfair it is but I'm not backing down Kyle's eyes narrow in interest unfair and what exactly do you mean by that Theo's gaze

drifts around the room briefly landing on Ed who watches him suspiciously since the stakes have increased shouldn't my compensation rise as well Theo asks his voice filled with quiet confidence Colen's back intrigued and what would you ask for Theo Smiles A sharp gleam in his eye the chamia palace Ed visibly tenses his hands clenching into fists as he struggles to contain his rage how dare he edes internally Wolf Gang watching The Exchange is equally shocked he's mad Wolf Gang thinks his face Grim to propose a deal with the clan head this half blood doesn't know

his place a deal implies both parties are equal his arrogance will be his undoing but to Everyone's surprise Kyle begins to laugh I like it he says a dangerous smile playing on his lips if if you aim to become the successor you'll need that kind of boldness and to lead you'll need something like Chamilia Palace do you have any objections Ed Ed's expression is Twisted with frustration but he bows his head his words barely controlled everything in Ragnar Belongs to You Clan head I would never dare oppose your decision Kyle nods in satisfaction good Then

let's not waste any more time prepare the arena immediately I'll test Theo Ragnar here and now as the preparations are made Theo steps outside into the arena his heart racing with a mix of anxiety and anticipation he stands across from Kyle their eyes locked while four of the Nine Dragons watch closely from above Ed watching from the sidelines sneers the Trap I set for Theo has become a stage to elevate him he mutters bitterly but no matter he Can't survive a single strike from the clan head not even the strongest swordsman would dare try Theo

will die here he has to die Ed's thoughts swirl Darkly but unbeknown to him Theo already knows Theo smirks inwardly aware of Ed's growing frustration I know exactly what he's thinking Theo Muses but that's not how this will play out thanks to a special tutorial reward he received earlier Theo feels confident in his ability to withstand the attack Kyle Sensing something off Narrows his eyes as he steps into the arena Theo he calls out did you consume an Elixir while I wasn't looking even if you did there's no way you could have improved so quickly

I'm curious just how strong have you become the stage is set and the moment of truth is approaching Theo can feel the weight of everyone's eyes on him but he stands firm ready for what's to come Theo his mind sharp and alert smirks slightly he says sharp as ever Not even the Nine Dragons have noticed Kyle Standing Tall and imposing replies with a calm amused tone at the end of the day you are of My Flesh and Blood his eyes narrow assessing his son so are you warmed up and ready Theo nods gripping his blade

tightly yes he replies with confidence preparing himself for what's to come Kyle glances at his weapon commenting nor I'd use my great sword but since you haven't learned how to control Mana yet I'll use this Rusty steel blade instead he lifts the dull worn Weapon It's surface rough with age and asks any objections of course not Theo responds his voice steady despite the mounting tension without hesitation C begins releasing his Aura a fiery red energy that surges out like a tidal wave immediately thickening the air around them the sheer force makes Theo stumble slightly and

the pressure nearly overwhelms him Kyle lowers his blade its Tip pointed toward the ground and his voice booms get ready Theo's body shakes not from fear but from the immense weight of his father's Aura he can't believe that what he's feeling is purely fighting Spirit as Kyle takes slow deliberate steps forward the air crackles with power I'm surprised you're still standing Kyle remarks with a slight grin Theo holds his ground keeping his eyes locked on Kyle's of course Theo mutters through gritted Teeth his strength had nearly tripled after using the experien Elixir boosting his levels

and putting everything into his physical might he could feel his body surging with energy teetering on the edge of barbaric power it's a great feeling he thought to himself stepping out of the realm of the ordinary and into something extraordinary he believed with this strength he could block a single strike from his father but as Kyle raised his blade Theo saw him not As a man but as an insurmountable wall his mind screamed to stay focused as the blade descended slicing through the air with a force that silenced the world around them all eyes in

the arena watched with baited breath except for count and Brad the latter of whom was practically praying for Theo's downfall ever the number one hater the strike neared and time seemed to slow Theo's gaze remained locked on the blades path following its Arc I can see it he Thought to himself reading every movement The Clash of their swords sent a massive shock wave through the arena shattering the ground beneath their feet the impact was deafening the force shaking the very walls of the Coliseum for a moment it seemed like the world had split in two

Kyle however noticed something before the full weight of his strike landed he pulled back his laughter booming through the arena it's been quite a While since I've enjoyed myself like this he said stepping back from Theo Theo's sword unable to Bear the force cracked and then shattered completely Kyle looked at his son with approval a smile spreading across his face it's been far too long since I found a son like you he said his tone filled with pride Julius and Osa exchanged glances both clearly pleased with what they had witnessed Kyle turned to the onlookers

declaring Theo has proven his innocence Through this trial the matter is now settled Theo Still Standing but unconscious on his feet had completed what would become known as the single strike of Kyle Ragnar Quest his reward was twofold he had unlocked an inventory and obtained a blue key the scene shifts and Theo slowly opens his eyes lying in a bed unfamiliar to him his mind foggy he looks around wondering where he is at his side Cecilia is holding his hand tightly you're awake she says softly Relief evident in her voice you fainted standing up she

smiles warmly her grip not loosening she begins speaking in fluent Japanese showing her concern Theo regaining his composure reassures her it's okay calm down where am I before Cecilia can respond Julius enters the room with a knowing grin by the orders of the clan head he begins the former Lady of Chamilia Palace axian and the director of intelligence have been removed from their positions Theo blinks Processing the information does that mean he Trails off julius's grin widens that's right you're inside the Camilia Palace now the status window flashes updating Theo's scenario his new task uncover

the palace's secrets meanwhile outside in the palace Gardens ail Stomps furiously on a flower seething with rage why she growls am I the rightful master of this place being forced to leave my own home her Butlers scramble around her pleading with her to stay calm but their Words fall on deaf ears from a distance axian watches with cold indifference and suddenly Ed standing nearby steps forward his face dark with anger you need to kill theor Ragnar axian gaze sharpens during The Awakening ceremony I'll take his arm but Ed isn't satisfied he cuts axian off no

you need to take his head that's the only way you'll make up for the disgrace you've caused axian considers Ed's words and understands his expression darkens even further as the Gravity of the situ ation settles in Ed's demand is clear Theo must be eliminated completely back inside Chamilia Palace Theo sits quietly contemplating the events that have unfolded things had spiraled far beyond his original plan but it had all worked out in his favor this turned out much better than I could have imagined he thought I managed to obtain the palace without even using my trump

card and as a bonus I gained a second Authority the Inventory with his Newfound power and position Theo's path was clearer but the dangers lurking ahead were growing by the minute Theo reaches into his inventory pulling out a shiny Red Apple and taking a bite the crisp crunch echoes in the quiet room as he mutters to himself I don't know how this is even possible but it's going to come in handy he rummages through the space once more and pulls out the blue key its surface glowing faintly the key had the ability To open a

dungeon a fact that he hadn't anticipated who would have guessed dungeons existed here he remarks with a smirk as he glances to his left a bluish Aura flickers at the edge of his vision his eyes narrow as he inspects The Source realizing the key glow matches the Hue of the aura this key it's connected to this place somehow moving closer to the door he notices a small blue Keyhole embedded in the wood without hesitation Theo inserts the key And slowly turns it the door creaking open to reveal a dark cave Beyond confusion flickers across his

face how is there a cave inside the house he shakes his head in disbelief but steps forward a notification window appears before his eyes informing him that he's discovered a dungeon for the first time and the experience earned within will be doubled another Quest he mutters the idea of double experience too tempting to ignore but just as he's about to Plunge deeper into the cave he stops himself I shouldn't go in unprepared he bolts through the palace rummaging through his inventory again only to reveal its packed full of Swords his grin returns all right let's

check it out now that I'm better prepared venturing deeper into the cave the dim light of blue torches illuminates the stone walls Theo's footsteps Echo as he reaches a wide open chamber he pauses scanning his surroundings and his eyes Widen as he spots something in the shadows a massive silver wolf stands there its eyes glowing and teeth Beed the Beast snarls menacingly that thing's huge Theo Whispers gripping his sword tighter big enough to be a demonic Beast his assessment is cut short as the wolf lunges at him its powerful jaws snapping shut just inches from

his face Theo barely raises his shield in time time but even then the creature's fangs tear into it leaving a gaping hole Theo grits His teeth pushing back pretty strong to he growls swinging his sword with a burst of strength but the wolf is faster than he expected it leaps back narrowly avoiding the strike and immediately retaliates with a Counterattack Theo moves swiftly but his strikes fail to do any real damage its hide is thick and it's fast he muttered under his breath frustration bubbling up half-hearted attacks aren't going to cut it this thing's No

Ordinary wolf it might be as Strong as the beasts beyond the northern wall demonic for sure his mind races if it's from the demony that explains its power this is going to be a real pain the wolf swipes at him with a massive paw claws slicing through the air Theo Ducks beneath it his body moving on Instinct he dashes under the the Beast the memory of his father's strike flashing through his mind that breathtaking white Arc of pure power that Kyle had Unleashed if only he could Replicate that moment that Flawless display of skill Theo

raises his sword trying to mimic his father's devastating attack but as he swings down the wolf easily Dodges frustrated Theo jumps back putting distance between them of course copying it wouldn't be so simple he admits as he catches his breath more memories of his father's strike resurface his father's technique was a single strike to bring certain death but the key Theo realizes wasn't just brute Force it was about putting every fiber of his being into that one decisive blow dropping his shield to the ground Theo tightens his grip on the sword's hilt if I can't

rely on brute strength I'll focus on speed Evelyn's taught me enough for this with renewed determination he dashes forward his speed blurring as he moves too quickly for the wolf to follow the silver Beast whips its head around trying to track him but it's already too late Theo's blade thrusts forward with Precise accuracy driving straight into the wolf's eye the creature lets out a chilling howl of pain as blood spurts from the wound splattering onto Theo's sword and coating the floor beneath them Theo pulls back his chest rising and falling with the adrenaline the the

wolf now blinded in one eye stumbles back blood pouring from the deep gash as it growls in agony Theo though bloodied and battered Stands Tall ready to finish the fight Theo feels The Surge of confidence As he and the Wolf lunge at each other for the final strike their movements in sync but only one will come out Victorious the tension builds and then the scene shifts two months have passed at training ground number four the one sparsely populated area is now bustling with people menuel standing near the entrance looks around and comments there are even

more people now syil standing beside him nods in agreement you're telling me at this rate we should move The training to another ground words spread that Theos mastered the single strike and now we're swarmed with people wanting to spar with him before cibil can continue a voice interrupts them when is that so-called young master of yours going to show up it's Henry Morris an apprentice swordsman from the plum blossom Palace osa's domain his tone is filled with disdain as he steps forward arms crossed it's been 2 months where's Theo I thought he never missed a

day of Training or maybe the coward ran off after that tall tale of his spread around Sybil's expression hardens his anger barely contained Henry oblivious to the rising tension continues maybe it was all a lie sure he won the trial but with no Witnesses it's probably exaggerated just like that nonsense about him wrecking the banquet before Henry can finish Sybil's fist slams into his face sending him flying backward Henry crashes to the ground his face Dented and bruised gasping for air his friend rushes to his side panic in his eyes Henry he calls out then

turns towards pointing in disbelief how dare a drop out like you do that the trainees around them loyal to Theo draw their blades in unison glaring at Henry's friend with cold intensity cibil's voice is low and Furious you're nothing compared to the young Master Watch your tongue menwell tries to calm him come on cibil no need To insult his appearance but cibil shakes his head his rage not yet satisfied I never never liked how these guys kept showing up stirring trouble but to insult Theo that's a step too far the other trainees growl in agreement

their hands tightening on their sword hilts This Is War cibil declares and I hope you're ready to back up your words Henry's friend sneers these dropouts must really have a death wish but before anyone can make a move the air suddenly Turns frigid out of nowhere a sharp chill spreads through the training ground and cibil freezes literally his body is encased in a layer of ice as a woman steps forward her presence undeniable she stands in the center of the conflict her sword glowing with an icy Aura it's Ray Ragnar one of the four hounds

of the north known as the frost sword the tension builds but then another voice cuts through the cold silence filled with laughter you're not Going to leave me out of the fun are you this hulkus another of the four hounds known as the black bear his massive frame moves toward the stage his presence equally commanding cibil's eyes widen in Surprise even hulkus is here hulkus glances around scanning the group with mild disappointment just trainees he turns to Henry's friend his eyes narrowing where's luster tiger luster who Henry's friend asks confused hulkus clearly irritated Raises his

voice are you deaf where is luster tiger the master of this training ground Ry silently observing doesn't respond but it becomes clear that hulkus is talking about Theo it's an unusual nickname and the reason behind it remains a mystery the scene jumps to Theo deep within the dungeon panting heavily his body is worn out his sword shattered Beyond use his status window pops up showing he's leveled up significantly not just once but multiple Times he has been fighting for 2 months straight and the results are staggering he's hunted 100 and 70 demonic beasts sitting at

top the corpse of a slain wolf Theo breathes heavily his body aches and his mind feels sluggish I've been fighting for 2 months he mutters uncorking a potion and chugging it down the liquid restores some of his energy though the exhaustion remains there were a few times I near died but this potion saved me I can't believe an item like This exists he looks at the pile of broken swords scattered around him in size it was rough at first but it got easier as I leveled up still 2 months and I'm not done yet his

gaze shifts to the side eyeing the final door in the dungeon one Beast left the anticipation builds as Theo Stars at the door this has to be the boss he mutters rising to to his feet and heading toward the fifth floor of the dungeon his hand tightens on his Broken Blade this thing's no Longer usable he tosses the shattered sword aside and reaches into his inventory pulling out the last weapon he has left a ceremonial sword his mother had given him as a birthday present as he grips The Familiar Hilt his thoughts linger briefly on

his family but then he steals himself for what's ahead this is where the rayol fight begins he says stepping forward into the unknown determined to finish what he started as Theo grips the ceremonial sword memories Of his past life flood back he recalls the friction between him and his mother especially leading up to the Awakening ceremony in that life he had tossed this very sword aside letting it rust in some forgotten corner of his room dismissing it without a second thought now as he examines the weapon more closely he realizes its true value the blade

forged from rare white snow Steel gleams faintly in the dim light and regret gnaws at him a flashback strikes him his Door opening on the eve of his birthday his mother her face glowing with joy had come in arms Laden with gifts Whispering happy birthday she had waited for midnight just to surprise him but all he did was shout at her The Awakening ceremony is near I don't have time for birthday gift his words venomous and dismissive had cut deeper than any blade he still remembers her hurt expression he' coldly told her that good equipment

wouldn't Change his bloodline as if her thoughtful gesture was meaningless Theo closes his eyes the memory stinging fresh whatever happened in the past he mutters I won't make the same mistakes he steals himself and moves toward the final chamber determined to make this life count as he approaches the boss room a warning flares in front of him a strong demonic Beast is about to appear please proceed with caution Theo takes a breath preparing himself for whatever Awaits when the door opens he's greeted by the sight of shimmering scales and a massive dragon-like snout his heart

skips a beat as the hulking form of a lesser Drake lies sleeping before him its Azure scales glinting in the dim cave light thankfully it's just a lesser Dr Theo mutters though the sight is still awe inspiring his thoughts race the Ragnar family descendants of dragons facing off against a draconic beast as The final boss couldn't be a mere coincidence maybe it's fate he Muses but there's no time to ponder one thing is clear he must defeat this Beast to clear the quest and unlock the dungeon secret the Lesser Drake is still a dragon even

in its lesser form can he win against it the question gnaws at his mind his thoughts drift to the single flash a technique he practiced extensively against the Wolves it wasn't on the same level as his father's dragon slayer Flash but it might be enough as a blue aura begins to Glow around him Theo charges forward with all his might the Lesser Drake's eyes snap open just in time if I push my dragon heart to its limit I can wound it Theo grits his teeth swinging his blade with all his might blood sprays through the

air as his strike lands and the Drake Roars in agony its voice shaking the walls of the cavern Theo grins relieved that the attack worked but there's no time to Celebrate the Drake lashes out with its massive tail a blur of scales and muscle Theo narrowly Dodges leaping to the side as the tail smashes into the ground where he stood just seconds ago I wanted to pierce its brain he mutters realizing the strike hadn't gone as deep as he'd hoped but now that it's partially blinded I have the advantage with renewed Focus Theo readies his

blade again this time he uses a technique called Jester's footwork dancing around The Drake with fluid unpredictable movements his blade slices through the air aiming for weak points along the beast's body he's fast faster than the Drake can follow as he weaves through the beast's defenses he thinks I might actually win this Theo Gets behind one of the Drake's legs positioning himself for a decisive blow if I can distract it first then hit its weak point I've got a shot he plans but before he can act the Drake lets out a deafening Roar Unleashing its

fear ability the fear status effect grips Theo immediately slowing his movements by 10% his body now sluggish feels like it's moving through mud Theo struggles to regain control but the Drake strikes its massive paw coming down with crushing Force he raises his blade just in time to block but the impact sends him flying across the cavern he crashes into the wall with a loud bang dust and debris scattering around him Theo coughs blood Trickling down his forehead it's a boss for a reason he groans pulling himself to his feet I can't let this drag out

the Drake charges again and Theo it head on he knows he must aim for the weak point he scans the beast's body for any sign of vulnerability his eyes catch something at the base of its neck the reverse scale he realizes locking onto it that's it every dragon's weak point as the Drake rears back for another strike Theo sees his chance with Lightning speed he thrusts his blade forward aiming directly for the reverse scale the sword pierces through and the Drakes Roar shifts from Fury to Agony blood pours from the wound as Theo drives the

blade and deeper over and over stabbing like a man possessed the Drake thrashes in pain its body convulsing as Theo's Relentless assault continues his mind races with disbelief it worked I actually hit it he thinks adrenaline surging through him but his Victory is short-lived the Drake though grievously wounded isn't dead its rage and intensifies as it turns its massive head toward Theo its jaws opening wide the Beast lunges teeth bared ready to tear into him suddenly the scene Cuts back to the training area as the tension escalates all the swords on the training ground suddenly

freeze in place covered in ice hulkus unfazed Roars out in frustration what are you saying re Theo needs to fight me first his eyes burn With determin ation as he swings his massive weapon the blade heavy and menacing re standing calmly retorts losers should stay out of it hulkus temper flares that was 3 years ago I've grown stronger with each passing day and 3 years is more than enough time for me to close the gap his voice shakes with anger as he challenges her again his pride on the line let's duel right now the winner

gets to fight Theo without waiting for a response Hulka swings his oversized hunk of metal toward re but she easily deflects it with the side of her blade her movements almost effortless cibil watching from the side stammers what what's going on Henry equally confused mutters I don't know but this is bad his eyes widen with concern as the battle heats up just as hulkus prepares for another swing a figure steps between the two Warriors blocking both their attacks attacks in one smooth motion it's Remy Theo's loyal Protector his voice is calm but firm as he

holds their weapons at Bay if you're going to brawl take it somewhere else this is Theo's domain and I won't allow anyone to cause trouble while the master is away hulkus grins stepping back clearly enjoying the chaos perfect timing Remy I've been wanting to duel you too his excitement is barely contained but Remy remains unfed Ed are you deaf Remy responds irritation creeping into his voice but suddenly a Crushing wave of killing intense sweeps over the training ground freezing everyone in place the air grows heavy almost suffocating as everyone turns toward the source re Narrows

her eyes trying to pinpoint who's responsible and then she sees him Theo walking forward slowly his presence exuding raw power Remy wide-eyed mutters this pressure it's overwhelming what happened to him during training even hulkus the battle junkie feels a thrill of excitement Finally he grins sensing the strength radiating from Theo he's here unbeknownst to them Theo is unleashing the fear ability he acquired from the Lesser Drake the scene flashes back to the moment he had fought the beast battle scarred and Relentless the final moments re play in his mind as the Lesser Drake let out

one final thrash then collapsed lifeless At His Feet the status window had appeared congratulating him on successfully Hunting a lesser Drake Theo barely standing had gasped it started thrashing when I touched the reverse scale I thought I was done for exhausted but relieved he realized how lucky he'd been that the dragon's weak spot wasn't just a myth the victory had rewarded him with several rare items items the Lesser Drake's tooth and the Lesser Drake's claw both prized materials for enhancing weapons Theo had glanced at his battered sword the one his mother had given him And

muttered I should use these to repair it it's a gift I can't afford to lose even though hunting the Drake really wore it down but the most valuable reward was the Lesser Drake's fear an ability that surprised him the durank scale had a mere 1% Mastery but it allowed him to release killing intent unique to lesser Drakes overwhelming those around him with sheer Terror Only The Chosen could wield such a power and Theo had never imagined he'd be one of Them he had stored everything back into his inventory uncertain if this ability would be useful

among the powerhouses of Ragnar with the dungeon cleared and the quest complete he had received one final reward an item called The Nest Compass which pointed toward some mysterious location I'll look into it later Theo had decided too exhausted to care all he'd wanted was to rest but now back in the present Theo's exhaustion is replaced by anger the brawl unfolding on The training grounds has tested his patience with a scowl he unleashes the fear ability sending waves of terrifying pressure throughout the area get lost he growls his voice laced with barely contained Fury I

need to rest the effect is immediate Henry's boys standing nearby begin to foam at the mouth collapsing to the ground under the crushing weight of Theo's killing intent Henry wide-eyed and panicked screams out the aura is laced with fentanyl his Voice cracks as his companions fall one by one hulkus on the other hand laughs heartily that killing intent is no joke his excitement only grows as he charges forward eager for a fight I knew you'd be fun Theo let's see how strong you really are hulkus charges at Theo his massive sword slicing through the air

with devastating Force but Theo calm and composed meets the attack head-on with a swift upward swing Theo deflects hul's strike sending him flying backwards the Sheer power behind the deflection leaves Remy stunned and even hulkus never one to be easily impressed can't hide his shock Theo glares at hulkus though internally he's just as surprised at his own strength I actually deflected that he thinks astonished by the ease with which he repelled the attack hulkus quickly regains his footing his expression turning Fierce as he growls there's no way I'm taking that he lunges again this time

aiming a heavy downward Strike at Theo challenging him to block it Theo assesses the situation hulkus may have been considered the weakest of the four hounds but his raw physical strength is nothing to scoff at as the blade comes down Theo remarks internally in terms of sheer strength hulkus is definitely at the top but right now even that power Theo leans into the attack smoothly pushing hulkus sword aside with a controlled motion down the edge of his blade in the same fluid movement he Executes the single slash technique a swift calculated strike aimed at hul's

midsection the power behind the counter R Rises hulkus as he coughs in disbelief he's not just parrying he's countering in the blink of an eye Theo's level up notification flashes before his eyes he's now level 16 the impact of the strike becomes apparent as hulkus coughs up blood a deep wound across his abdomen spilling Crimson onto the ground the mighty warrior stumbles and collapses Bleeding heavily Theo stands over him shocked at the force he used I didn't realize I'd used my full strength he mutters to himself relieved good thing it was hulkus if it had

been anyone else they'd be dead hulkus luckily has only fainted cibil witnessing the scene is at a loss for words until the realization hits him and he and the other boys begin screaming in excitement Theo defeated black bear he took down one of the four hounds with a single strike their Enthusiasm is uncontrollable Theo still trying to remain composed waves them down calm down he's alive just knocked out but as he speaks the sword in his hand suddenly snaps the blade breaking and clattering to the floor Panic flickers across Theo's face as he looks down

at the shattered weapon no this was the sword my mother gave me the onlookers however add to the growing Legend even broke his own sword in a single strike as if expected of Theo They exclaim much to his frustration why are you happy about that Theo groans off to the side Remy and R watch the unfolding scene re's gaze is fixed on Theo her expression unusually thoughtful it's clear she's deep in reflection and her intense stare doesn't go unnoticed by Remy who wonders if he just saw her smile a flashback suddenly takes over the scene

a younger version of Theo is seen standing in the snow spotting a little girl Ry wandering in the cold who Are you the young Theo asks curiously as he approaches her seeing her shivering he quickly wraps his scarf around her shoulders you still look cold come to my house until the snow stops his voice is gentle caring Ray's memory lingers on that moment her first encounter with Theo and a soft smile tugs at her lips she quickly turns away leaving Remy to one wonder if what he saw was real the scene shifts back to the

Chamilia Palace inside Theo sits with a celebratory hat On his head as the maids gather around him showering him with praise congratulations on your title luster tiger they cheer their voice is filled with admiration you worked so hard for so long now you just need to carry this momentum to The Awakening ceremony Theo's mother bustles into the room setting food on the table with the wide grin on her face all while shoving food into Theo's mouth eat up you've been working hard she insists her happiness Palpable as she overwhelms him with affection Theo slightly exasperated

wishes she'd ease up but seeing the joy in her face he decides to accept it with Grace he thinks about how he treated her in his past life the coldness the neglect and how this time he won't repeat those mistakes smiling softly he says says it's delicious mom as she continues bustling around Theo remembers the broken sword and shows it to her his mother's reaction is immediate she Screams in horror what happened to your sword I'm so sorry Theo says lowering his head it broke during training her frustration boils over it's all because of that

damn old man she exclaims catching Theo off guard she rants he swore up and down that the sword was made from White Snow steel and Ebony steelwood and that it would never break and now look at it Theo taken a back can't help but laugh a little even though the sword is broken he feels Closer to his mother now than he ever did in his past life Theo furrows his brow in confusion wait are you talking about ebony steelwood from the southern Gaia jungle he asks trying to wrap his head around it his mother nods

yes exactly the old man swore that only the rarest and most precious materials were used in the swords crafting but as you can see she gestures to the Broken Blade that was complete nonsense if what he claimed was true the sword never would Have shattered like that Theo considers her words reflecting on what he knows about Ebony steelwood Ebony steelwood is a strange plant it grows by feeding on iron which makes it incredibly rare what's special about it is that it retains the the flexibility of wood while being as strong as steel I knew this

sword was good but I didn't realize it was that valuable his curiosity peaked he wonders aloud where did you even get something like this his Mother's expression hardens this won't do I'm going to demand an explanation from him this time he'd better get my son a sword worthy of his talent it's fine Theo interjects quickly I can just use another one absolutely not his mother Cuts him off her determination clear people are finally recognizing your true worth now more than ever we need to be meticulous besides the Awakening ceremony is less than a week away

I refuse to let you walk into that Ceremony with a Shabby old sword Theo can't help but notice the happiness on her face as she bustles around already planning before he can object further she declares since we're on the topic we go right now go where Theo asks half confused half amused by her sudden burst of energy to the best Workshop in all of winra the Basque Workshop time for a custom weapon she announces marching out the door Theo can barely keep up as they head to the famed Basque Workshop one of The top three

weapon manufacturing centers in the region it's renowned not just for its sheer size which Rivals that of a factory but for its Mastercraft man Theo has heard whispers about the place but now he learns something that surprises even him the workshop's master is a special rank blacksmith one of only three Ragnar Artisans with the title of Master Craftsman when they arrive Theo is even more shocked to see a woman running the Workshop her title the elf of capitalism incarnate but she is better known as the demon Craftsman kerson as Theo takes in the sight of

her his mother starts yelling still haven't quit smoking I see Cecilia shouts her voice Rising Theo taken a back stares at his mother wait mother you know her Cecilia shoots curs in a glare of course I do this is my mother Theo's jaw drops your mother he had always believed Cecilia was an orphan with no living family he never Would have guessed that curs a high elf and renowned Master blacksmith was his grandmother the realization hits him like a ton of bricks so that means I'm a quarter elf Theo mutters to himself grinning that must

be why I'm so dashing while Theo's thoughts spiral Cecilia storms up to kerson and throws the Broken Sword onto the table I'm returning this defective product kersen visibly irritated catches the sword and raises an eyebrow what did you just say A defective product that sword was crafted by me there's no way it could be defective she un sheaths the sword only to be taken aback by the sight of the Broken Blade Cecilia crosses her arms if this isn't a defective product then what is Theo still in the background is too distracted by the Revelation that

he part elf to pay attention to their argument kerson Narrows her eyes and asks who wielded the sword Cecilia without hesitation replies my son of Course who else kerson glances over at Theo her tone sharp you mean that kid behind you watch your mouth Cecilia snaps back that kid is the genius who will rule Ragnar one day Theo steps forward bowing respectfully it's an honor to meet you master kerson I've heard a lot about your work kerson eyes him carefully so you're the one who wielded this blade she seems to be thinking deeply about something

this sword should have broken let's discuss It inside it's going to be a long conversation she says with a sigh gesturing for them to follow her as they walk inside Theo turns to his mother how are you related to this Craftsman Cecilia Chuckles it's exactly as you've just learned Theo still processing the situation hesitantly asks so she's really your mother Cecilia Chuckles softly shaking her head you wouldn't know would you she was my foster mother for a short period 6 months she took Care of me back then Theo's mental image of his mother's past continues

to shift so not your real mother Cecilia explains further cson has always had an eye for anything beautiful whether it's Jewels Music Theater or even people that's probably why she took me in as her foster daughter she must have liked me a lot kerson interrupts with an irritated tone stop talking about the past this pointless Cecilia clearly enjoying pushing her buttons laughs I bet you Don't actually believe that kerson now visibly annoyed responds with a Curt I do curious Theo asks so how did you end up leaving Cecilia opens her mouth to answer but kerson

cuts her off she left of her own accord kerson says coldly she decided she'd become the Ragnar Clan head's wife to think she willingly went to such a miserable Place foolish it's commendable she's survived this long Cecilia completely unbothered grins the clan head was just too handsome so Dashing and manly he loved me dearly kerson rolls her eyes and after running away like that she had the nerve to come crawling back last year begging me to forge a sword for her son I've never seen such shamelessness they begin to bicker their sharp exchanges revealing an

odd but deep connection Theo watching with Amusement thinks to himself I've never seen my mother talk like this before I really didn't know her at all in my past life the Realization settles heavily on him I was too obsessed with the clan to notice those around me I truly was an ungrateful son his eyes shift toward kerson and it seems like she cares about my mother too he thinks why didn't she do anything in my past life as if sensing his thoughts cson abruptly changes the subject we're here she announces stopping in front of a

door this is my master office Cecilia looks suspicious why did you bring us so far Inside she asks her tone sharp and you'd better make up for all this by giving him the best sword you've ever made ignoring Cecilia kson grabs Theo by the hand and pulls him inside shutting the door and leaving Cecilia outside once inside Theo notices kon's intense stare she's glaring at him and he feels confused I'll be blunt kerson says her voice firm do you have a relic of the primordial Dragon Theo blinks Unsure how to respond the primordial Dragon you

Mean the ancestor of the Guardian dragon that protects the Ragnar Clan exactly kerson says her patient thinning I've heard the legend that the primordial Dragon scattered its Treasures across winra for the Ragnar descendants so do you have one Theo taken aback by her insistence shakes his head I've heard the story but I don't have anything like that kon's frustration boils over as she un sheathes the Broken Sword stop Pretending she snaps her tone harsh there's no way my sword would break like this unless it came into contact with a relic so explain how it ended

up in this state Theo feels sweat forming on his brow it got damaged during a fight with a drake he replies still not understanding why she's so fixated on The Relic kon's eyes Blaze with disbelief a Drake The Sword was forged with my heart and soul there's no way it would break against anything less than a Relic her voice shakes with emotion as she adds do you have any idea how much that sword cost me Theo realize the gravity of the situation quickly apologizes I'm really sorry I didn't know it was that valuable I just

fought a drake cson regaining her composure size it's faster to show you than to explain she walks over to a wall pulling on a set of chains a hidden panel slides open revealing a room Beyond inside a coffin rests emitting a faint blue glow Theo's eyes widen hidden in recognition that glow it's the same as the door to the dungeon in chamia Palace kerson studies his reaction you see it don't you I can't see or sense anything from it but from your face I can tell you do I've tried countless times to open that coffin

and retrieve the item inside but I've never succeeded she places the glowing coffin in front of Theo here's the deal if you can break the seal and remove the sword inside I'll give you the white Moonlight blade Theo's heart skips a beat the white Moonlight blade kerson nods long ago during the age of myths the primordial dragon forged a blade from one of its fangs the white Moonlight blade it's said to be one of the most powerful swords ever created and it's locked inside that coffin Theo stares at the coffin excitement building in his chest

so all I have to do is break the seal it's not that simple cson warns her tone Grave breaking the seal could cost you your life but if you succeed the sword will be yours do you want to try Theo's blood races his mind filled with the promise of wielding such power his palms grow sweaty as he looks at the coffin then back at kerson with a grin he nods the sword is going to be mine a system window flashes in front of him second scenario Quest be chosen by the sword the challenge begins we

learn the full history of the white Moonlight Blade the Legendary sword once held by the black dragon one of the Nine Dragons and leader of the black snow its appearance remains a mystery as almost everyone who had encountered it either vanished or died shortly afterward few ever spoke of its form but in a flashback we see Theo by sheer luck catch a glimpse of the white Moonlight blade in its true form the black dragon had turned to him eyes arrow and asked can you actually see the sword Theo in disbelief remembered that Moment vividly he

wondered back then why the black dragon hadn't killed him on the spot it felt like a problem that wouldn't leave him alone and yet the black dragon had spared him even now in the present Theo couldn't understand why this sword this relic of the primordial Dragon was here with kerson he met the black dragon four years later so how did kerson come to possess such a weapon during the that time kirson interrupts his thoughts asking once more so do you Want to try Theo shaking off his confusion notices something there's a keyhole just like the

one at chamia Palace maybe the blue key will work here too he Muses aloud kerson surprised watches as Theo retrieves the key as he inserts it into the lock the casket begins to shine instantly the chains binding it snap with a loud crack release ing a surge of energy into the room kerson Cries Out feeling the overwhelming aura that pours from the Casket while Theo is enveloped in the energy his vision becomes cloudy and soon he finds himself standing in a world of pitch black darkness when his sight clears he's greeted by a familiar haunting

scene the burning remains of the Rose Palace Flames lick the walls as everything crumbles before him why am I here again Theo mutters to himself his gaze Falls and the sight of his mother's corpse lying in the ashes sends a wave of pain through him his voice is Heavy with regret I was weak back then I needed more power power to defeat renan to destroy Chamilia Palace Out of the Shadows the sword's true form emerges its shape twisting into a monstrous creature its beak moves to sink into Theo's mind feeding on his deepest desires for

strength but his resolve unshaken tightens his grip and forcefully shuts the creature's beak you thought you could control me by playing on my need for power his voice Is fierce filled with Defiance the creature recoils startled how did you break free from my hold Theo's expression hardens a grin forming on his lips I overcame the despair you're showing me a long time ago did you really think I'd fall for something like this now I have far bigger things driving me quests the creatures confusion deepens quests what are you talking about it shifts uneasily and Theo

notices something it's much smaller Than he remembered the Griffin he once knew was massive towering over everything but this version seems weak in comparison sensing the change in Theo's attitude the Griffin tries to negotiate wait hold on let's talk I'm not what you think I'm quite civilized meanwhile in the real world Cecilia desperately Taps Theo's face her Panic Rising with every second that passes Theo wake up her voice trembles with fear as she turns to kerson what have You done to him I asked for a sword not for you to kill my son kersen equally

shocked and unsure watches as the scene plays out before her the sword's energy is fusing with his bloodstream she mutters eyes wide in disbelief I've never seen anything like this before I thought he'd be fine since he already had a relic tears well up in Cecilia's eyes her voice breaking as she pleads if anything happens to him I swear I will never forgive you kon's face is pale as She watches Theo's grip tighten around the sword the energy within him intensifies forming a black aura that swirls around the room growing darker by the second then

the aura condenses into a small black orb that slowly descends into Theo's chest merging with him completely Cecilia watching in Terror calls out once more Theo please suddenly his eyes snap open and the tension in the room breaks Cecilia gasps in relief and throws herself into his arms sobbing Uncontrollably as she clings to him I'm sorry Theo Whispers softly his voice comforting as he rubs her back I didn't mean to to worry you but I'm okay now there's no need to stress Theo stands amidst the ruins of what was once the solid wall of the

Basque Workshop his grip on the white Moonlight blade firm as its gleaming Edge reflects the destruction he just caused he has completed the second Quest earning full control over the sword even kerson lets Out a sigh of relief as the pressure in the room eases Theo examines the blade feeling a surge of power flowing through him I was lucky Griffin was easy to handle especially since it had just been unsealed he thinks and that mind trick it had no chance of working on me by absorbing the Monstrous energy from The Sword his magic power surges

growing by an extra 30 points pushing his overall magic level past 200 as a white glow emanates from him Theo realizes Something new his magic has begun to gain a touch of divinity I'm now at the same level as a high ranked swordsman he murmurs marveling at his Newfound strength yet despite the power coursing through him he feels a Pang of frustration it's a shame I can't fully unleash this magic until the Awakening ceremony his stats are already beyond anything he could have imagined kerson standing nearby watches him intently you've surprised even me she says

a rare Smile Crossing her face congratulations on succeeding Theo turns to her asking will you keep your promise kerson raises an eyebrow elves can't lie she replies confidently just then the sword in Theo's hand begins to vibrate catching him off guard what's going on he asks confused by its Defiance it's not that it doesn't recognize you as its Master kerson explains it's just frustrated after being trapped for hundreds of years it's finally free and now it wants To release all that pent up energy she gestures to a nearby wall already bearing the scars of countless

sword strikes why don't you take a swing at that wall put everything into it Theo looks at the wall skeptically are you sure he asks kerson smirks clearly unconcerned worrying is useless even if it's the white Moonlight blade a swing from someone who hasn't even gone through their Awakening ceremony won't damage The Basque Workshop her Dismissiveness irks Theo kind of annoying to hear that he mutters under his breath let's see if that's really true he decides to take this opportunity to test the sword's true power as he steps toward the wall he contemplates whether or

not to tap into his magic sorry in advance he mutters as he prepares the bandages wrapped around the sword begin to unravel on their own revealing the blades full awakened form Theo's eyes narrow as he feels the Sword's power resonate with his own one of his eyes turns black a reflection of the energy he channels into the blade widening his stance he readies himself for a powerful strike kon's eyes widen in alarm as she suddenly realizes the immense amount of energy building up around Theo Sweat Beads on her brow and she yells wait stop but

it's too late Theo unleashes a devastating attack single Flash the technique he had seen his father use the blade slices through The wall not just damaging it but obliterating the entire section of the Basque Workshop dust and debris settle as the damage becomes clear a gaping hole now runs through the side of the workshop Cecilia wide-eyed looks around in shock kerson on the other hand seems Frozen when she finally moves she grabs an ornate mask screaming my workshop My Money her voice cracks as she takes in the scale of the destruction Theo wiping the dust

from his face sigh I guess that Might have been a bit much he admits it absorbed all of my magic power in one swing before he can catch his breath kerson appears beside him her hand pressed against his stomach Theo blinks startled when did you he begins surprised by her speed you're not even proficient with magic and yet kerson mutters inspecting him closely there's no man a hall on you did you really achieve all that just from the sword's sharpness alone she stares up into his Eyes her expression changing from shock to admiration you're a

genius I see it now my grandson a true Prodigy Theo watches her closely as she falls silent for a moment clearly running some internal calculations then a Sly smile spreads across her face she places her hand on his shoulder you'll be my Patron from now on all I need you to do is spread your wings and show the world what you're capable of her eyes gleam you'll be the walking Advertisement for my workshop Theo blinks surprised by her sudden enthusiasm even Cecilia looks shocked as kon's eyes gleam with a new kind of intensity Cecilia Whispers

I think she's seeing nothing but money signs right now later that night Theo and his mother make their way back to the C Carriage the quiet of the evening settling around them as kerson watches them leave from the workshop entrance in her hands are the items Theo had given her the loot he Earned from clearing the dungeon they were gifts entrusted to her to repair the wall he had inadvertently destroyed earlier despite the destruction kerson feels a sense of Pride swell within her he must have obtained these from a drake while securing The Relic she

Muses a gleam of satisfaction Crossing her face a laugh bubbles up as she watches them disappear into the night whispering to herself my daughter sure raised an incredible son suddenly a voice calls Out to her from the Shadows long time no seea cursing her smile instantly Fades annoyance flashing across her face as she looks up into the nearby trees why are you here she snaps her gaze sharp and unforgiving the voice continues this time coming from a bird perched high above kon's irritation only grows but before we hear more the scene shifts forward 5 days

jumping to the highly anticipated Awakening ceremony on the day of the ceremony Theo is sparring With Evelyn their swords clashing with rhythmic intensity he's pushing her back with more power than ever before but Evelyn skilled as always still manages to Parry his strikes however her defense begins to fall falter as he presses her harder her stance shifting under the force of his blows you've grown stronger she notes slightly winded but impressed your sword play has improved you're faster and more precise now Theo breathes a sigh of relief a small smile Tugging at his lips to

think I'd ever hear Praise from you he quips the other trainees who had been watching in awe can hardly believe what they're seeing Evelyn takes a step back assessing him with a critical eye it's been half a year since you started down this path and already you've come so far today you will awaken your magic power I have no doubt you'll soar even higher this might just be the birth of a true monster she smiles a hint of pride in her voice You've done a great job Theo you might even aim to become the valedictorian

at this ceremony Theo Chuckles clearly pleased if I do I'll make sure to mention your name during my speech he teases grinning widely Evelyn cringes at the thought shaking her head please don't spare me the embarrassment the other trainees not wanting to be left out chime in hey make sure you mention us too Theo with a heavy sigh Theo waves them off being popular sure is tough he Says dramatically earning a few laughs from his comrades Evelyn cringes again but a faint smile plays on her lips with that that Theo excuses himself I'll see you

all at the ceremony he calls out before heading off to the central headquarters of the Ragnar family as Theo approaches the grand gate he feels the weight of the moment settle over him he stands before the imposing structure takes a breath and introduces himself his voice steady open the gate He Commands ready to face whatever lay inside outside a crowd of onlookers has gathered anticipation thick in the air The Awakening ceremony is the most significant annual event for the Ragnar family and everyone from Nobles to commoners wants to witness it the doors Creek open revealing

the vast interior packed with competitors Theo steps inside his heart pounding every participant here dreams of achieving Greatness today he thinks for a swordsman of Ragnar are this is the moment they can be acknowledged honored but despite his confidence a flicker of anxiety grips him as he scans the crowd Everyone's Watching including my father The Nine Dragons the strongest in the clan are present as well seated in places of Honor among them is Hilda Ragnar R the former Clan head from two generations ago she's supposed to be 150 years old Theo Marvels she doesn't look

It at all still it's a relief to see her in attendance a deep drum Echoes through the hall signaling the start of the ceremony a voice booms out commanding the crowd's attention everyone listen well the speaker is Vanna a judge presiding over the event the preliminary examination begins now he gestures to the center of the Arena where a steel wall stands gleaming ominously before you is a wall forged from White Snow steel a material So strong that ordinary blades won't leave a mark But Vanna's eyes scan the crowd his voice lowering with weight with magic

power anything is possible Theo listens intently as Vana continues each of you will be given a pill of PSAL this Elixir contains 10 years worth of magic power swallow it and it will open your monah hall located in your abdomen only then will you have the power to cut through the wall before you the depth of your cut will determine your result s Vanna looks down at the list of participants his voice Rising again now the first to come forward theor Ragnar are Theo feels every eye turned toward him as his name is called with

a deep breath he steps up to the stage ready to begin Theo steps forward recalling how in his past life axian had claimed the title of valedictorian but this time he wouldn't let that happen he reaches out and accepts the S pill then grabs one of the swords laid out for the participants I won't let axian steal the spotlight this time Theo mutters determined his quest now is to become the valedictorian of the Awakening ceremony as he prepares Hilda Ragnar the former Clan head glances over at Kyle is that the one you were talking about

earlier she asks her eyes narrowing in curiosity Kyle nods watching Theo with a Keen Eye that's him he's caught your interest has he Hilda Chuckles softly after everything you said how could I not be intrigued I want To see just how capable this descendant of mine really is Theo lets out a quick sigh loosening his body as he feels the weight of the event pressing on him it's been a while since I felt this nervous he admits quietly but he doesn't let it shake him Vanna the judge commands him to take the pill swallow the

pill Vanna orders his voice firm Theo remembers his past life how he had fumbled at this moment how his Mana had gone out of control damaging his Mana Hall but this Time he would do things right he swallows the psalm feeling the Mana surge through him the raw power almost overwhelms him as he stumbles the magic swelling uncontrollably for a moment Vanna watching the scene unfold shakes his head fool if you cause a Mana wave of this size you'll lose control you need to guide it carefully into your Mana hall or you'll yourself the magic

continues to Surge threatening to spiral out of control but just as it Seems like it might overwhelm him Theo pulls it back forcing the energy to stabilize the Mana forms into a controlled orb around his body surprising Vana he he actually managed to endure it Theo tightens his grip feeling the rush of energy coursing through his veins finally he whispers under his breath I have both a dragon heart and a manaal he pauses reflecting on how different this life is from the last it almost feels too easy Compared to before but now wasn't the time

for reflection with his Mana fully under control Theo is ready to prove himself he adjusts his stance preparing to unleash everything his blade hums with power as Mana flows through it surrounding the sword with a vibrant aura all I need to do is give it everything I've got as he swings his sword the atmosphere changes a fierce image of a dragon materializes behind him its presence imposing and Overwhelming the four hounds watching the ceremony immediately sense the widening gap between themselves and Theo the aura of the dragon's claws rakes through the air as Theo's blade

crashes into the wall with devastating Force Theo has Unleashed single Flash and the result is Aston ising his strike leaves a massive deep mark on the wall nearly splitting it into axan watching from the sidelines clenches his fists in frustration his expression dark the Mark Is so deep that it can be seen from across the arena and the audience watches in stunn silence Vanna momentarily speechless stammers you you've passed Theo walks away confidently the weight of the event no longer on his shoulder shoulders the other trainees stare at him in disbelief I've never seen anything

like that not since young Master Thor one mutters can you believe that was someone using Mana for the first time Theo notices the Status window flashing curse of bad luck lifted Fame increased relief floods him finally he thinks a grin spreading across his face I've reached the same starting line as the others from AC cross the arena Osa Ragnar are watches with a spark of interest in her eyes I want him as my disciple she murmurs to herself meanwhile Julius grits his teeth clearly irritated by the attention Theo is garnering even someone named rubber Ragnar

are lurking in the background Watches Theo cautiously the bird cson had spoken to earlier is perched nearby its gaze fixed on Theo Hilda Ragnar are two Smiles as she watches intrigued by her descendant Theo feels a surge of Pride thinking to himself catching Hilda's attention that makes me especially happy she holds the heart of Garuda if I can obtain that who knows what else I could achieve as the next participant steps up it's cibil's turn he steals himself swinging his Blade With all his might his sword strikes the wall and to his relief leaves a

visible mark overcome with emotion syil wipes away his tears I did it I actually passed one by one other notable participants follow re hulkus and Remington all leave their own marks each one reflecting their unique sword techniques cibil though impressed by their performances can't help but feel that none of their strikes carried the same weight as Theos finally it's Axion's turn the crowd quiets as he steps forward all eyes on him it's a battle between Theo and axian now people whisper but can axian really match what Theo just did axian clearly agitated by the murmurs

grabs his sword and swallows his Som pill the Mana surges through him and without waiting for instruction he begins to infuse his Blade with his Aura Vanna calls out for him to Pace himself but axan ignores the warning a powerful dragon-like Aura surrounds him as he Swings axian sword strikes the wall and the sound it makes is Harsh and gring Vanna's eyes widen shaking his head in disbelief this is madness he whispers watching as axian Mark appears on the wall almost as deep as Theos but forming a sharp X the crowd murmurs in confusion how

can this be their strikes are nearly identical Vanna exhales knowing that the Precision of the marks will determine the winner axian looking at his Mark Seems dissatisfied but turns away without another word as the last participant finishes Vanna steps forward to Signal the end of the first stage of the ceremony well done all of you he announces those who passed should prepare for the second stage in 4 days he smiles as the crowd buzzes with excitement now the moment you've all been waiting for I will announce the valedictorian of the first stage both Theo and

axi and stand still waiting With baited breath for the final verdict Vanna took a deep breath letting the intensity of the moment settle across the arena and then announced with unwavering Authority the valedictorian for the first stage of the Awakening ceremony is Theo Ragnar R gasps echoed throughout the hall every single attendee including Theo himself stood Frozen in disbelief he blinked rapidly trying to process what he had just heard could it really be him The Whispers of Awe and shock circled the stands as eyes locked onto the young Warrior Vanna unshaken by the commotion turned

towards Theo and continued you achieved a perfect score 10 out of 10 your Technique control over magic power speed everything was Flawless even Theo's staunchest competitors like axen found themselves dump struck murmurs spread among axian supporters voices laced with disbelief The Flash tiger actually took first Place someone whispered did axian truly lose to him Vanna with the gravity of an oracle delivering fate added your sword Mark's depth came close to matching that of young Master thorkel Ragnar R the crowd erupted in conversation thorel Ragnar are one of the five major candidates for succession had always

been revered and now Theo's performance was being compared to him axion's Fury simmered just beneath the surface his body rigid as his eyes darkened with Seething rage he had never expected to come second the humiliation was unbearable the salutatorian is axian Ragnar R Vanna declared while you two earned a perfect score the length of your sword Mark fell short compared to Theo's the tension was thick as axian supporters murmured with mixed emotions Vanna continued to reveal the results of the other participants but axians rage was palpable the rest seemed irrelevant to him now 87th Place

Cil daa Vanna Concluded good work everyone he then announced that the second stage of the Awakening ceremony would take place in 3 days in the mountains come fully prepared Vanna warned the 87 examinees who had passed a thunderous Roar of Cheers erupted from the crowd but amidst the Jubilation a shadow of competition lingered later that even evening the atmosphere in the tavern was celebratory training ground for candidates were celebrating wildly the fact that both The first and third places had come from their group ignited the room with pride Theo and Remington stood at the heart

of the crowd surrounded by praise and Applause with drinks in hand they exchanged Smiles as the crowd raised their glasses in cheers Theo glowing with humility and determination raised his voice over the noise it's not over yet our goal is to pass the second stage together his arm wrapped around Remington in a warm gesture of Camaraderie will be the final valedictorian and salutatorian Remington's eyes widened surprised at Theo's confidence the crowd roared in support their Collective belief in Theo and Remington unshakable Remington still in awe of Theo turned to him his voice sincere congratulations young

Master Theo for becoming the valedictorian it's incredible to see your hard work bear fruit however a shadow crossed his face as he added Quietly but I can't help feeling ashamed of how far I've fallen behind Theo never one to let doubt linger placed a reassuring hand on Remington's shoulder don't worry about it I was lucky this time besides what does it matter between friends who's ahead or behind Remington's chck swelled with renewed respect for Theo his face lit up as he lowered his head with Newfound determination thank you young Master Theo you've cleared my mind

the two Clinked their glasses a promise sealed let's give it our all in the second stage the scene shifted to the imposing mountain range where Theo stood the wind brushing against his face as he stared at the Peaks the weight of his achievement still felt surreal first place in the Awakening ceremony he whispered to himself it was an accomplishment he never would have dared to dream of in his past life a life so distant yet so haunting he gazed at the Horizon fists clenching as he recalled the look on axion's face defeating him in any

event no matter how small was Monumental though it wasn't a real fight Theo thought it's still exceptional to have surpassed axian in any way the memories of his past weighed heavily on him Theo's heart burned burned with resolve this is just the beginning he muttered under his breath his eyes darkening with purpose he hadn't just stopped renan renan was nothing but a Puppet the true threat the real enemies were still out there axian and the Sky Dragon they stood between him and his ultimate Revenge I'll use everything I have everything his voice was low but

laced with an unyielding ferocity as Theo pulled out the compass from his pocket he couldn't help but feel a chill of anticipation the needle pointed unwaveringly toward the Towering winter mountains in the distance he tightened his grip around it so the second stage Will bring me closer to the secrets this Compass holds he thought eyes sharp and Resolute a faint sound from behind snapped him back to the present without a second's hesitation Theo vanished reappearing behind the figure who'd been observing him his blade was pressed to the man throat his voice a low threat who

are you the stranger's eyes widened in shock clearly unprepared for Theo speed trying to steady himself he managed to respond wait I'm not here to Harm you slowly raising his hands he introduced himself I'm Gatsby yoten from the Gail sword platoon my captain sent me after watching your impressive performance at the Awakening ceremony Theo's expression barely changed a scouting offer they're moving faster than I expected he thought only slightly intrigued Gatsby pressed on trying to hold Theo's Attention our captain wishes to invite you to take an admittance qualification test a rare honor I must Say

Theo's eyes narrowed disappointment flaring within him a test he replied his tone laced with impatience you're telling me your captain needs me to prove myself rather than just join Gatsby nodded a oblivious to Theo's annoyance exactly the Gale platoon is known far and wide he added proudly and I'm sure you but before he could finish a voice broke through with sharp disdain of course the Gale platoon sends another fool Gatsby whipped around clearly Irritated only to find himself staring at Ian s the fire Goblin and vice commander of the black Iron Cavalry young Master Theo

I began with a Sly grin unlike those idiots the black Iron Cavalry would honor you with open arms so what do you say recognizing ion Gatsby muttered under his breath the fire Goblin if you know who I am ion snapped then disappear but before he could continue even more figures materialized each one vying to extend an Invitation to Theo all eager to recruit him after witnessing his display of skill the scene quickly devolved into chaos as each representative argued over who had the right to speak shouting for attention Theo took a step back his expression

a mix of surprise and disbelief this is absurd he thought they're acting like a pack of hyenas he glanced for an opening calculating the best way to slip away unnoticed but then a voice both commanding and calm Silenced the crowd I'm well aware I may be called greedy for this it echoed freezing everyone in place the crowd parted as Osa Ragnar R The Sword Dragon and Lady of the plum blossom Palace entered the scene with a piercing gaze Osa locked eyes with Theo what do you say Theo Ragnar are I've come here with a personal

offer should you choose to accept it meanwhile far from the growing excitement around Theo axian was lost in a storm of Rage the training grounds Were littered with the lifeless bodies of those who dared approach him each struck down by his unrestrained Fury memories of Theo's triumph over him at the ceremony played over in his mind fueling his bitterness gripping the head of a trembling subordinate axan tightened his hold until the man's skull cracked under the pressure a sick reminder of his mounting anger Theo he spat slamming the man's body into the ground this disgrace

will be answered a Heavy presence suddenly broke through his rage a chilling aura that demanded immediate submission axian turned abruptly ready to strike as he launched his sword toward the figure approaching but the weapon stopped midair caught effortlessly between two fingers the Sky Dragon Ed stood there his eyes glinting with disappointment pathetic he sneered the single word laced with scorn flailing around here won't change your fate Uncle axian muttered tamping down His anger why are you here Ed's gaze darkened as he leaned in his voice soft yet laced with malice it's time you stopped acting

like a child if you're so desperate to bring Theo down then come with me he tilted his head a Sinister smirk spreading across his face I'll teach you how to make the second stage for Theo Ragnar R's funeral Theo found himself standing face to face with the Sword Dragon her presence so commanding it Left the entire gathering in stunned silence murmurs of unease rippled through the crowd like static on a broken speaker many feared that the esteemed Lady of the plum blossom Court showing up in person might make their faction appear as fragile as a

dollar store umbrella in a hurricane fire fiend ever the Vigilant one moved quickly to intervene but before her protest could gain traction a sphere of dense shimmering energy enveloped Theo and the Sword Dragon effectively sealing them off from the the outside world chaos erupted among the onlookers shouts of alarm mingled with Whispers of Suspicion some speculated that the Sword Dragon might be offering theop personal guidance a notion that threatened to append the already delicate balance of their alliances inside the bubble of power however Theo found himself stepping into an entirely separate Dimension a realm entirely

distinct from Reality it was the fabled Sword Dragon seal space something he' only ever heard of in the wildest of campfire stories the sight hammered home the realization that his reputation was growing far beyond his control breaking the charged silence the Sword Dragon spoke her voice calm yet edged with authority she remarked that the dragon lord might frown upon her actions but made it abundantly clear no one could stop her from presenting a gift to someone of her Choosing At The Mention Of A gift Theo's eyebrows shot up in Surprise a gift what do you

mean by that he asked cautiously The Sword Dragon slowly unsh sheathed her weapon her every movement deliberate and precise while the dragon lord sword Roars with the ferocity of dragon fire mine embodies transformation an infinite spectrum of possibilities she explained as her words hung in the air the space around them began to shift a dreamlike forest unfurled its trees crowned with Blossoms that shimmered like stard dust under Moon Mo light she elaborated her tone unwavering that the dragon she followed symbolized all conceivable Transformations without further Ado she launched into a demonstration Theo stood transfixed as

the Sword Dragon unveiled the first technique of demon Bloom swordsmanship Heavenly Blossom rain in one fluid breath she executed a staggering sequence of 122 steps and techniques Theo could barely keep up his Astonishment grow with each motion the sheer complexity and power of merging these Maneuvers into a single strike boggled his mind he couldn't help but Envision the almost Godlike strength he could wield if he mastered such an art yet doubt began to creep into his heart am I even worthy of this gift he hesitated to ask his voice tinged with uncertainty The Sword Dragon

regarded him with a knowing gaze and replied cryptically the fact that you question It shows you understand its wait that's enough for now as if on Q the Ethereal space dissolved returning them to the real world before leaving the Sword Dragon left him with a parting comment if you wish to learn more you know where to find me with those words she disappeared cherry blossoms drifting in her wake like confetti after a concert Encore standing amidst the Serene spectacle Theo contemplated the immense gift he'd been given whether he accepted It or not the responsibility was

immense and he began to wonder if fate was nudging him toward joining the white armored Dragon Cavalry 3 days later in the snow drenched mountains near the Northern Great Wall the second blooming ceremony officially began this Majestic expanse stretched from the Winterhold stronghold to the distant demon sea its frozen silence broken only by the authoritative voice of senior swordmaster Jackie his words carried the Weight of centuries as he reminded the young Swordsman of the Ragnar family's ancient duty to protect Humanity from the cursed lands and the perils lurking in the demon sea Jackie continued his

voice sharp and clear like the crack of a whip he warned that no Apprentice swordsman was permitted to cross into the demon Sea and the test would be confined to the Great Walls domain over the next 15 days their mission was to hunt beasts in the winter mountain range And collect Bells tied to their necks these bells Jackie explained came in 7 colors red orange yellow green blue indigo and purple the higher the bell's rank on the Spectrum the more points it was worth and the more fearsome the Beast guarding it the purple bell Jackie

added with a hint of grim Amusement belong to a creature so powerful that none present could hope to defeat it but the reward for daring to obtain it unparalleled anything goes Jackie Emphasized as as long as you bring the bells back within the time limit as the instructions settled over the Gathering Theo found himself reflecting on the true meaning behind the rules the stakes were higher than ever and success would require more than skill it would demand Ingenuity resilience and perhaps a touch of Madness Jackie's words lingered in Theo's mind each one a deliberate nudge

toward fostering Fierce rivalry or even outright conflict among the participants But sharp as ever saw through the facade he understood that surviving such challenges was the real lesson being hammered home with the final word Jackie dropped a crucial detail outposts had been scattered across the mountains serving his barricades to keep monsters at Bay these zones also held vital supplies buried like treasure waiting for smart players to dig them up his advice was simple use them wisely or Regret it deeply as Jackie's voice echoed its last command the test officially began the participants scattered like chess

pieces each plotting their own strategy one Apprentice swordsman clearly playing the long game made securing supplies their top priority no food no fight they muttered deciding to stick close to Young Master Theo Ragnar figuring he was the safest bet to Hitch their wagon to Meanwhile black bear had zero chill he Stormed forward with the enthusiasm of a kid Unleashed at a trampoline park roaring this is going to be epic every five steps not far off axian was the picture of cold calculation replaying his uncle's cryptic advice stick to the plan this mountain will become Theo

Ragnar's grave axion's lips curled into a smirk as he stalked through the snow his eyes darting occasionally toward Theo Theo for his part didn't miss a thing his gaze stayed locked on axian Quietly analyzing every move like a gamer watching a speedrun tutorial but he wasn't alone somewhere behind him a heavy lingering stare burned into his back turning Theo came face to face with Remington whose Steely gaze matched the icy backdrop Remington stepped closer his voice steady as he laid his thoughts bare over the last 3 days he admitted he'd wrestled with his feelings what

had started as respect had grown into rivalry now now he didn't just see Theo As a friend but as someone he had to surpass Theo raised an eyebrow then broke into a soft smile arrival huh glad to hear it he said with a calm that radiated confidence I feel the same about you Remington let out a hearty laugh visibly relieved good I thought I might have been the only one he said his grin widening then with a dramatic flare he declared during this ceremony I won't hold back I wanted you to know that Theo gave

a slight nod fair enough good luck Out there and with that Remington spun on his heel and Strode away his laugh echoing in the frosty air rather than Feeling burdened by Remington's declaration Theo found himself grinning the thrill of rivalry buzzed through him igniting a sense of exhilaration his Focus sharpened knowing full well that every move he made was being watched and judged shaking off the lingering thoughts Theo retrieved the ancestral Compass a revered artifact said to guide Its holder to The elusive Dragon's Nest the needle twitched before locking onto an Eastern Direction pointing toward

a mountain shrouded in an eerie blue glow with resolve burning bright Theo set off trudging deeper into the snow covered terrain the biting wind clawed at his face but he pressed on at the Mountain's Edge Theo paused he scanned the area his sharp eyes hunting for signs of the Cave the compass had indicated the landscape was a thick blanket of white and he Muttered to himself maybe I should have packed a shovel instead of this sword or at least one of those cute folding Spades from the survival shop the thought brought a fleeting smirk to

his face which quickly vanished as he drew his Blade with a swing that hummed with power Theo Unleashed a streak of lightning the energy tore through the icy ground ground blasting snow into the air as the white Veil settled it revealed a clearing sparse trees and Just as the compass promised a cave hidden beneath the snow lowering his weapon Theo called out with a Sly grin all right whoever's lurking in there play time's over come out and say hello from within the cave a chuckle echoed mocking almost playful a figure stepped into the dim light

eyes glittering with Amusement caught us already huh they teased their voice dripping with sarcasm Theo's eyebrow arched as he replied dry wow stealth isn't exactly your strong Suit huh behind the leader a stocky man shifted uneasily his face Twisted with irritation I told you to keep it down he hissed at his companions his voice trembling with frustration now look what you've done his tone dropped laced with Dread this guy he's way more dangerous than we thought Theo's gaze narrowed as the group stepped into full view recognition hit like a jolt of lightning these weren't just

random thugs they were the infamous Mount Bucky Bandits Cow and Luen notorious for turning missions into bloody disasters disguised as accidents memories Theo had long tried to suppressed surged forward visions of a mountain Village near Bucky reduced to ashes its people slaughtered without Mercy darkness flickered in his eyes as he prepared to face the monsters in human skin the memory of that harrowing investigation with hu flooded Theo's mind a massacre so horrific that it etched itself permanently into his Soul the toll was staggering 761 dead 220 missing what haunted Theo most wasn't just the number

but the grotesque detail every victim's head crushed obliterating any chance of identification it was a nightmare given form a horror that defied reason and Justice now standing before these Bandits Theo felt an inferno of anger rise within him but beneath the rage lay a grim acknowledgement these criminals were a Symptom of a broken system weak men who had sought power far beyond their moral capacity Theo studied their faces recalling their cruelty he had already planned to deal with them someday isn't it the trio stiffened exchanging wary glances before their faces hardened into masks of murderous

resolve one of them sneered sarcasm dripping from every word as he dismissed the notion of being manipulated by anyone let alone admir Lackey another Bandit clearly the loud Mouth of the group stepped forward taunting Theo with a mocking grin you wouldn't understand the big picture lacky boy go back to carrying water for the grown-ups but Theo wasn't playing their game his mind raced to the schemes of the Elder Dragon connecting the dots without hesitation he fired back or maybe you're just Pawns of the merchant Council the reaction was immediate their mocking bravado cracked like cheap

glass eyes darting words stammering the Bandits betrayed their guilt without realizing it Theo's deduction had struck home unraveling their plans in an instant seizing the moment Theo pressed on his voice cutting like a blade your nervous faces say it all and let me guess the supervisor's absence isn't a coincidence he's in on it isn't he cornered the bandits struggled to keep their composure one of them scoffed muttering begrudgingly you're sharp I'll give you that then turning to his Companions with forced nonchalance he added think this little Revelation changes anything the second Bandit grinned with unsettling

confidence not really because he's still going to die right here Theo's expression turned glacial his eyes devoid of any warmth let's see who dies first he said his tone is frigid as the snow around them before the bandits could react Theo moved his sword flashed with blinding speed a streak of light that sliced Through the air in an instant their severed limbs hitting the ground with dull thuds the Earth erupted in a violent spray of dirt and snow as the sheer force of Theo strikes left the bandits reeling in Terror and disbelief the trio fell

to the ground lifeless their arrogance extinguished in seconds Theo exhaled softly the weight of his power settling over him the fight had been effortless a testament to the gap between their skill and his as he Cleaned up the aftermath his thoughts drifted to the technique The Sword Dragon had taught him Heavenly Blossom rain after three grueling days of practice he had mastered executing it three times in succession yet he knew the sword dragon's Mastery of the move Flawless and executed 120 times was a level far beyond his reach her Elegance her intricate movements her control

of the blade it was something almost mythical finishing his cleanup Theo Grabbed the severed heads one by one and flung them down the mountain side the thuds of their descent echoed but then A peculiar sound caught his attention pausing mid motion he listened carefully his curiosity peaked moving toward the edge he discovered something unexpected a hidden staircase descending Into Darkness almost instantly his Mission Interface lit up with a new notification hidden Quest unlocked find the invisible staircase and uncover the secrets below Without hesitation Theo leapt down the the staircase his heart pounding with a mix

of anticipation and caution he had no idea what lay ahead but the Allure of the unknown was irresistible unbeknownst to Theo a shadowy figure stood at a safe distance silently observing his every move elsewhere axian Ragnar the reigning Champion was on a roll with his team of 21 he had already captured 41 demons an impressive Hall that underscored his dominance meanwhile in the encampment of The demon dragon core a soldier reported Theo's progress or lack thereof Theo Ragnar has yet to capture a single demon the soldier said with utmost respect he appears to be working

alone the report Drew raised eyebrows from a member of the core so he's either lying low or setting up an ambush they speculated curiosity creeping into their tone The Sword Dragon calm as ever remarked speculation is just that nothing is confirmed the Elder Dragon however Chuckled Darkly his confidence unshaken a strong performance in the first round means nothing he mused his voice laced with mockery especially for a bastard like Theo Ragnar his laughter echoed dripping with scorn as he reveled in his disdain for Theo as the Elder Dragon stood silently satisfaction gleamed in his eyes

he felt reassured believing the bandits had executed their mission flawlessly meanwhile the Celestial Dragon stood nearby his sharp gaze Clouded with suspicion with a quick transmission of Sound Energy he questioned the Elder Dragon asking if the High Council had interfered in recent events the Elder Dragon denied any involvement assuring His companion that no prior messages had been sent and that everything was still unfolding according to plan but the celestial dragons frust ation simmered beneath the surface his instincts telling him otherwise he clenched his fists Realizing the Elder Dragon had acted independently circumventing him entirely memories

of his exhaustive search through the Crimson Blossom Hall flickered through his mind despite all his efforts the ancient dragon Relic had remained elusive his gut told him one undeniable truth theor Ragnar held the key without hesitation the celestial Dragon transmitted another message this time to axan his command was clear accelerate the plan and ensure Theo was Dealt with swiftly meanwhile The Sword Dragon her sharp eyes catching the barely concealed tension between the Elder and Celestial dragons quietly observed their exchange turning to the demon dragon she voiced her suspicions the High Council she remarked and their

secretary they're plotting something we need to lay a safety net before the spiral is out of control the demon dragon however dismissed her concerns with a dismissive wave Theo Ragnar is no Ordinary Contender he said with a smirk interfering is pointless he won't fall so easily he cast her a knowing glance before adding besides didn't you meet with Theo in secret care to explain that the Sword Dragon chuckled softly her composure unshaken what matters now replied is not my meeting with him but how Theo feels about all of this emotions demon dragon sometimes they matter

more than strength elsewhere Theo pressed forward the compass in his hand Leading him deeper into the caverns cold uninviting depths Twisted skeletons littered the path before him their grotesque forms illuminated by faint flickering light each step was deliberate his gaze unwavering as he anticipated the Divine traps awaiting him these trials designed to break one's sanity would have driven most to Madness for Theo however they were mere obstacles puzzles to be solved pausing to place a hand on the icy wall Theo Felt an unfamiliar surge of energy Ripple through him this divine power laced with Mana

heightened his senses and sharpened his instincts he could feel it coursing through his body like a second heartbeat as the energy built a Golden Glow began to seep from the depths ahead revealing the faint outline of a concealed entrance Theo's lips curled into a faint smile so this is the path he murmured reassured that the compass hadn't led him astray what lay Ahead however defied his expectations beyond the gate instead of the modest layer of a young dragon a sprawling Cavern of unimaginable Grandeur awaited him towers of gold stretched toward the ceiling their gleaming surfaces

reflecting the faint light with dazzling intensity at the heart of this Treasure Trove lay a massive slumbering Dragon its enormous form radiated power so immense that Theo's breath caught in his throat this Wasn't the lair of a young dragon as he'd expected it was the home of an ancient one Theo froze his mind racing as dread crept in the sheer Mystic presence of the creature blanketed the space making every hair on his body stand on end he knew with absolute certainty that facing this Dragon would lead to certain death the idea of obtaining Aman's Relic

felt like an impossibility now overshadowed by the realization of his own fragility his Thoughts Whirled was the information he' received wrong or had he arrived too early had hu deliberately misled him whatever the truth one thing was clear this situation was far beyond anything he' prepared for after a brief deliberation Theo made the only rational Choice Retreat turning away from the treasure and the slumbering Behemoth he resolved to leave quietly before the dragon awoke but as he took his first step back the Unexpected happened a low Rumble filled the cavern and Theo froze spinning around

to find the dragon's massive eyes open and locked onto him somehow without making a sound the ancient creature had stirred and was now staring at him with an intensity that made the very air tremble Theo's heart sank as the dragon's Voice boomed through the chamber resonating with an ancient undeniable Authority the dragon's head tilted slightly its golden eyes Narrowing as it introduced itself I am L Brock the guardian Dragon God and the master of this winter Mountain as Theo faced the dragon he did the smartest thing and bowed down to the dragon a testament to

the Dragon's power and said it's an honor to be in your presence ancestor dragon L Brock was surprised on hearing the ancestor dragon from Theo and asked him tell me Theo Ragnar why do you consider me as your ancestor Theo explained that the guardian Dragon God Had once been a companion of sigard Ragnar Clan's progenitor and the supposed mother of the second Clan head Lord Frid Leaf as the Legends claimed at this L Brock let out a dry laugh a sound so ancient and weighty it seemed to Echo across the cavern like the unraveling of

a thous thousand years of misunderstandings the dragon dismissed the notion outright scoffing at the Absurd tales that had been spread by fridle humans and Dragons life Partners L Brock's booming voice reverberated with disbelief utter nonsense my bond with sigard was one of mutual respect a pack of souls nothing more no romance no sentimentality only the cold binding terms of a promise from the very beginning humans were never meant to be more than temporary allies to dragons much less companions Theo's astonishment deepened L Brock's words dismantled everything he thought he knew about his family's lineage questions

raced through His mind like wildfire slowly he rose to his feet his eyes locked onto the Colossal form before him after a moment of hesitation he asked cautiously then the rumors about my family carrying Dragon Blood are they nothing but propaganda the ancient dragon studied him with its unblinking golden eyes its voice steady yet authoritative as it dispelled another myth no the dragon's blood flows in your veins but it is not what you think through the pact made With sigur my Essence was intertwined with your lineage it is not born of Love or kinship but

of Duty my bloodline sustains your family's strength but only because of the bond forged long ago Theo opened his mouth to press further but L Brock raised a massive claw cutting him off before the question could leave his lips the dragon's patience was waning enough the formalities are over and I grow tired of idle chatter it declared its voice like thunder I am the guardian Dragon God Bound By My Vow you Theo Ragnar are the chosen one and it is time for you to undertake my trial Theo's pulse quickened as L Brock continued outlining the

nature of the trial you will face three questions questions that will test your resolve your wit and your purpose fail and you will leave empty-handed succeed and you may walk the path toward what you seek relief swept over Theo like a cool breeze on a sweltering day for a moment he feared he Might have to face this ancient being in combat a battle he knew he couldn't survive gratitude welled up within him tempered by the weight of the opportunity before him this trial wasn't just a challenge it was a gateway to the secrets of his

family's power Resolute he vowed to seize the moment and extract every fragment of knowledge he could from the ancient dragon outside the cavern axian was a whirlwind of Destruction his blade flashed with Lethal Precision each swing carving through the beasts in his path another fell its monstrous form collapsing with with a heavy thud stooping down axian plucked a green bell from the creature's remains mentally tallying he realized this was his 57th Bell without a Second Glance he tossed it to one of the soldiers trailing behind him and barked report on Theo now the soldiers exchanged

uneasy glances before one laughed mockingly Theo he's probably Cowering somewhere too scared to face the beasts he sneered the remark IGN Ed a ripple of laughter yet orin's eyes betrayed a more complicated emotion as he watched axian in action with grudging admiration orine silently acknowledged axion's overwhelming strength each swing of his blade seemed almost effortless dispatching beasts that would have sent lesser Warriors running to aine axian strength was undeniable but his arrogance and recklessness graded on him Like nails on Stone before orine could voice his thought thoughts he found himself yanked off the ground with

terrifying ease axian had seized him by the collar his eyes blazing with a deadly fire what's your game orine axian growled his voice low and venomous scheming behind my back or are you just too weak to speak the truth Panic seized orine as he thrashed in axion's Iron grip and no I wasn't plotting anything he stammered his voice rising to A Desperate shriek but his wide eyes filled with Terror betrayed far more than his frantic words ever could axian leaned in closer his voice dripping with Menace strength banishes fear he said coldly remember that true

power makes fear irrelevant if you're weak you're nothing but pre just then a soldier cautiously approached interrupting the tense moment sir the soldier reported a message from the higher up S they want you to expedite the plan axian released Orine with a shove his Focus shifting as orine scrambled to steady himself axion's expression darkened then it's time to finish this he said his voice as sharp and unyielding as his blade meanwhile deep within the cavern Theo Ragnar stood beneath the imposing gaze of the ancient dragon L Brock the silence between them was thick almost suffocating

as Theo considered the gravity of his first question he let out a deep breath the sound echoing faintly In the immense chamber finally he spoke his voice steady despite the storm of thoughts swirling in his mind I'm ready to ask my first question L Brock visibly unimpressed huffed its massive scales shimmering in the dim light well don't keep me waiting boy you've already wasted enough of my time it growled its tone dripping with the kind of impatience that suggested it had better things to do like guarding the world from ancient Horrors or binge watching Its

favorite Celestial dramas lifting his gaze Theo asked why are you here it was a question that had weighed on him ever since their encounter and he braced himself for the answer the dragon's glowing eyes narrowed as if appraising the value of Theo's inquiry ah a foundational question L Brock mused its voice resonated with an ancient Authority very well I am here because of a monster one that exists at the edge of the world Beyond the Seas it is called The nameless King the dragon's tone turned somber as it continued for the past thousand years my

mission has been to guard against this creature's return the winter Mountain it added with a dry chuckle is merely a facade a bedtime story to keep meddling fools at Bay Theo's mind raced as the truth unraveled the nameless King even the name sounded like something ripped straight out of a Mythic horror novel yet if the tales were true this creature instilled fear Even in L Brock a being that had reigned for over a millennium the realization sent a shiver down Theo's spine though he quickly shoved his apprehension aside there were more questions to ask and

time wasn't on his side after a moment of reflection Theo posed his second question what exactly is the relic of the ancient dragon Road broke tilted its head as if mildly amused by the Simplicity of the question ah the relics a fragmented story for a fragmented Soul It began there are three relics tied to my existence or so you think Theo's brow furrowed at the cryptic remark but he didn't interrupt the relics Road broke explained are fragments of my soul 31 pieces scattered across this world to Aid Humanity in their fight against the nameless King

they can manifest as items experiences or even phenomena Theo's breath hitched as the Revelation hit him like a thunderbolt the third Relic he carried it wasn't just an artifact it Was his ability to regress suddenly everything clicked into place like the final piece of an impossibly complex puzzle but one question still burned in his mind if these relics were always guarded by dragons why had he found none protecting his regression gritting his teeth Theo pushed his confusion aside and asked the final most personal question why was I chosen his voice cracked slightly as he gazed

up at L Brock his doubt laid bare why me why Burden someone like me with the task of facing the nameless King The Dragon stared at him for a long moment its expression unreadable slowly it approached each step reverberated ating through the cavern like a distant drum beat when it finally spoke its words weren't an answer but a question why do you think you're the only one chosen the question struck Theo like a lightning bolt his knees felt weak his pulse quickened and a cold sweat broke out Across his brow was it possible could there

be others like him names and faces began flashing through his mind Ed kerson the black dragon both individuals with knowledge of the relics and Ambitions to gather them were they also chosen had they experienced regression just like him the thought circled Theo's mind like a predator hunting its prey leading him to an unsettling realization this world was far more intricate and enigmatic than he had ever dared to Imagine a nameless King so terrifying that even an ancient dragon quaked at the thought of him and the suggestion of others like him regressors painted a picture far

darker than he was prepared for the truth of this reality wasn't just hidden it was a Labyrinth of Secrets breaking the silence L Brock's voice cut through Theo's spiraling thoughts it affirmed that all three of Theo's questions had been answered and declared his trial complete but then Came a revelation That Shook the air like a crack of thunder the dragon admitted its original purpose here to claim the relic of Aman for itself yet now it had changed its mind what it intended to offer Theo was something far greater something beyond the value of any trinket

at that moment Theo system chimed in the cold emotionless voice delivering the update congratulations you have completed the hidden Quest your Reward is the chance to claim the Treasures of the ancient dragon the dragon gestured with one massive claw toward the glimmering horde within its Lair the sheer sight of it was overwhelming a kaleidoscope of Priceless gems relics imbued with told power shimmering Elixir ancient skill Toms and legendary weapons that seemed to hum with their own energy L Brock elaborated with an air of Pride detailing the treasures as relics from all corners of The world

it then turned its piercing gaze back to Theo and extended an offer choose it said take anything you desire and it shall be yours Theo's heart surged with excitement the kind that made his blood Roar in his ears without hesitation he locked eyes with the dragon and made his choice his voice rang out firm and unyielding I want you L Brock froze its ancient body stiffening in sheer disbelief its eyes glowing like molten gold widened as it Echoed Theo's request aloud almost as if to ensure it hadn't misheard the chamber descended into a heavy silence

broken only by the dragon's low rumbling laughter a sound like an approaching storm the dragon's eyes gleamed with a mixture of curiosity and derision the kind of look a chess master might give a novice who had just made a bold but foolish move its laughter grew darker resonating like distant Thunder you dare it growled its voice laced with mockery The edges of its mouth curling into a predator's sneer as the dragons enormous gaze pinned him Theo's expression sharpened his mind worked like a gambler calculating odds every detail in the chamber feeding into his next move

his eyes flicked to the treasure horde then to the ancient beast perched at its peak radiating absolute command with a faint sigh he tilted his head slightly as if annoyed at the theatrics the dragon hissed its voice cutting through the air Like a knife explain yourself human is this a joke Theo's response was unwavering his tone calm and resolute correct he stated meeting the dragon's glare without flinching L Brock reaction was immediate its colossal Wings unfurled with a deafening humph the sheer force of the motion sending shock waves that rattled the chamber Theo staggered his

feet sliding as he fought to keep his balance against the oppressive Gale the dragon loomed larger Its ancient presence crashing down on Theo like the weight of a skyscraper the dragon's voice boomed dripping with contempt audacious worm it snarled each word sharp as a blade do you truly think you can stake a claim on me on my power with your pitiful words the accusation hung heavy in the air the pressure making Theo's knees tremble every Instinct screamed at him to run but he stood firm gritting his teeth he fought against the overwhelming Force his Vision

blurred as blood pulled at the corners of his mouth but his eyes blazed with unrelenting Defiance summoning every ounce of his will Theo tapped into his own draconic Essence a faint blue aura flickered to life around him fragile yet determined like a candle refusing to be extinguished by a hurricane L Brock sneered its disdain as palpable as the crackling energy around it the dragon's voice oozed mockery pathetic it scoffed do you think the Faint glow of a lesser Drake will intimidate me your effort is nothing but an ember against a wildfire the dragon's massive form

leaned forward its growl reverberating through the chamber your attempt is feudal it declared each syllable heavy with centuries of superiority you will learn that standing against me is not boldness it is suicide Theo stood his ground unwavering his voice steady as steel as he reminded L Brock of the promise made a promise Granting him the right to claim any treasure in the lair he pointedly noted that No Boundaries had been defined leaving open the possibility that even the dragon itself could be claimed as part of that treasure for a brief moment a flicker of surprise

danced across L Brock's piercing eyes a reaction to the sheer boldness of Theo's words but Theo's resolve was unshakable he knew the line he tread was perilously thin stradling courage and Madness yet his Decision was absolute no gilded chest or ar artifact could compare to the honor of winning the dragon's Allegiance keep your word he demanded his voice laced with both Challenge and determination stand by my side as the Ultimate Prize for a long tense moment road Brock's intense gaze bore into Theo then almost imperceptibly a subtle shift softened the dragon's expression as though a

distant memory had surfaced perhaps of another human who had once stood before It with similar boldness the Defiance in Theo's eyes seemed to strike a cord igniting a faint smile that curved the dragon's lips ever so slightly the silence lingered heavy and profound before L Brock exhaled a deep rumbling breath Amusement flickered in its golden eyes mingling with reluctant acceptance very well the dragon murmured its tone carrying both resignation and Intrigue Theo froze his thoughts scrambling to catch up did that just Happen did L Brock truly agree he remained rooted to the spot dumbfounded as

the dragon's colossal form began to dissolve into swirling Mist the Ethereal glow of its eyes lingered emanating a profound yet melancholic power before fading completely into the fog when the Mist cleared a new figure emerged a Regal otherworldly woman with horns that hinted at her draconic lineage her presence was mesmerizing an embodiment of both strength and Grace as though Every detail of her being had been carefully crafted to redefine Beauty itself the remnants of the Mist clung to her form enhancing the Ethereal Aura she radiated she stepped closer her gaze meeting Theos with a spark

of amusement a soft chuckle escaped her lips as she teased a struck already how Charming her playful demeanor shifted however as her expression turned solemn her voice tinged with sadness revealed fragments of her story she admitted to being over 2,000 years old but confessed that her heart had been lost 50 years ago with a weary sigh she spoke of The Binding that tied her to the nest and the Bittersweet reality of her remaining time only three short years her gaze turned pointed her question clear and direct knowing this would you still want me as your

prize Theo inhaled deeply steadying himself a confident grin spread across his face as he met her eyes his conviction unshaken absolutely he replied without hesitation L Brock shook her head a resigned expression playing across her features foolish human she muttered though her words carried a subtle undertone of acknowledgement beneath her exasperation there was a flicker of understanding perhaps even admiration for his determination stubbornness after all was a trait befitting someone worthy of a dragon's Allegiance suddenly Theo's system chimed in a notification flashing before his Eyes congratulations you have selected Ragnar's Guardian dragon as your reward

L Brock raised an eyebrow her lips curving into a Sly smile you truly are one of a kind she remarked her tone dripping with Amusement yet in her gaze there was a faint glimmer of Pride as system notifications buzzed with updates Theo's attention was caught by his new titles Guardian dragons partner and descendant of the progenitor the weight of his new role hit him like a lightning Strike but his determination only grew his smirk widened his eyes blazing with fiery intensity I'll get stronger he vowed his voice filled with an unyielding resolve and I'll uncover

more relics tied to the primordial dragon then with a playful Edge he added who knows maybe I'll even find something to replace your lost heart L Brock's eyes narrowed slightly her Intrigue unmistakable though skepticism lingered in her expression a faint smile softened Her features then you'd better take good care of me she said her tone holding both warning and a touch of reluctant Amusement her expression was laced with dry amusement as if even she couldn't fully believe the agreement she had had just made L Brock reminded Theo that she couldn't leave the lair and would

remain in hibernation until a solution to her missing heart was found before retreating into Slumber she conjured a glowing blue tome in her hands her Demeanor unexpectedly gentle as she placed it firmly against his chest locking eyes with him her voice carried a quiet Authority read it she instructed it will unlock your mind gate and Forge a true Soul link gesturing around her EXP expansive lir she motioned to the scattered Resources with a Sly smirk she added you've got everything you need here so take your time as her Majestic form began to fade a system

notification materialized before Theo you have ACC Acquired the grimoire of Aman Theo's breath hitched as his gaze dropped to the Tome now resting in his hands this wasn't just any book it was the grimoire of Aman A fabled Relic whispered about in Legends it it was said to contain the primordial truths of sound principles that birthed existence itself and the sacred notes that resonated with creation's Essence a grin tugged at Theo's lips as he tightened his grip on the ancient Tome casting a glance toward L Brock's slumbering form he murmured under his breath determination hardening

his features becoming the guardian dragon's chosen companion wasn't a role to be taken lightly and he swore to prove himself worthy of the honor his confidence wavered slightly as he nervously asked wait what did you mean by one month without so much as a glance L Brock's voice drifted through the air her response waited like ancient gold that's how long it will take to fully Awaken your mind gate her tone was casual almost dismissive as if she were discussing the weather Theo swallowed hard as the gravity of her words hit him like a tidal wave

one month his pulse quickened as the implications sank in but I don't have that kind of time he thought Panic flashing across his face with the second stage of the Awakening ceremony already in motion he only had 15 days to finish the exam every second counted desperation clawed at his Resolve as he reasoned with her maybe I can come back after I finished the ceremony he offered his voice tinged with hope L Brock's reply came with a soft chuckle her Amusement filling the air like a storm cloud waiting to break perched at top a treasure

chest like a queen on her throne she crossed her legs with an air of Regal indifference not a chance she said her voice dangerously smooth her tone carried a sharp edge taunting and absolute you'll stay here Until your mind gate is open Theo's stomach churned as the realization set in there was no room for negotiation a quick mental calculation only deepened his despair he had 13 days left just 310 hours until the exam ended while other students were out there earning Bells honing their combat skills and battling beasts he was stuck here instead of fighting

his days would be consumed by the cryptic process of Awakening his mind gate all under the unyielding gaze Of a 2,000-year-old dragon who seemed to find his plight endlessly entertaining fast forward to 3 days before the exam deadline snow blanketed the grounds of the Central Intelligence Bureau but the icy chill in the air wasn't just from the weather it radiated from axion's Uncle his Sinister grin was enough to make a hardened Soldier reconsider their life choices wide-eyed like a deer caught in the headlights as his uncle rummaged through a box and retrieved a Small seemingly

harmless marble but in this world nothing is harmless with a theatrical pause worthy of a movie villain his uncle held the marble Aloft and revealed its Sinister purpose this little trinket he draw amplifies the energy of sealed fiends to create an anti- field keeps other fiends at Bay he crushed the marble in his fist the ACT accompanied by an ominous crunch that echoed in the frozen air What followed was nothing short of horrifying a Vortex Of black and purple particles erupted coalescing into a grotesque Abomination the creature took shape towering and misshapen with a M

so vast it could SW swallow axian hole its eyes gleamed with malevolence and its presence turned the atmosphere from Icy to suffocating axion's heart thundered in his chest as the monstrosity loomed over him its very existence a declaration of his uncle's ruthless intent before axian could fully process the monstrosity in front of him Shadows erupted from his uncle's legs coalescing into the shape of a dragon in one Swift and devastating bite the fiend was obliterated its remains Vanishing like smoke in a gale axian stood Frozen caught between awe and the creeping existential dread that came

with belonging to his terrifying family tree his uncle completely unfazed by the Display of Power brushed the incident aside as though swatting a fly with an air of casual Menace he laid out the Next phase of their plan the second stage's official objective eliminate fiends and rack up points simple enough but axion's true Mission far less noble the real goal was petty to the core lure Theo out using the marble as bait straightforward in theory except axian ever the dramatist had other ideas why stop at luring Theo when you could torture him first extract every

last ounce of Intel about the Rose Palace Relic but his uncle Eternal voice of Reason and professional buzkill immediately shut down the scheme Theo isn't someone you can toy with axian he said with a knowing smirk and restraint let's just say that's never been your strong suit the jab earned him a glare so sharp it could cut steel axion's fists clenched his knuckles cracking like popcorn in a fire left with no choice axian begrudgingly accepted Plan B Target Theo's soft spot his allies from training ground for present day Axian genius plan yeah it was was

a disaster Theo had completely ignored the bait instead of charging Into The Fray to rack up fiend points like a normal participant Theo had pulled aw's Waldo disappearing off the map entirely with only 12 hours left on the clock axian sat fuming his frustration simmering hotter than lava his measly rank of 860 points did little to soothe his bruised ego behind him the arrival of Felix Ragnar a swordsman from plum Blossom Palace was announced by flashing lights Felix currently ranked seventh with 446 points approached with the confidence of a wannabe detective maybe Theo's been captured

by the council Scoundrels Felix suggested his tone almost smug axion's glare was cold enough to turn magma into ice your Insight he sneered is as trashy as your rank not content with just the insult axian Twisted the knife deeper mocking Felix's connection with Lady plum blossom the jab struck a nerve Felix's jaw clenched and his fingers twitched as if ready to retaliate but swallowing his pride Felix bit back his words and stepped aside axan dismissed him with a lazy wave enough of your driil it's time to force Theo out of hiding summoning members of the

scale Dragon society and plum blossom Palace axian put his latest scheme into motion hunt down Theo's allies one by one Wicked grins spread across the faces of the scaled Dragon members their Anticipation for Carnage written in their feral eyes unbeknownst to axian someone else was eavesdropping from the Shadows concealed behind a towering tree Ray Ragnar ranked third with 561 points stood listening intently his sharp gaze flickering with Intrigue meanwhile deep in the forest the shrill Cry of of a Dying lizard pierced the air its final moment so unsettling they could have scored a horror movie

soundtrack a group of hunters stood triumphantly over its Twitching corpse the metallic Tang of blood mingling with the earthy scent of moss it wasn't just any lizard it was a middle low class fiend though its dramatic demise might have convinced the hunters otherwise at the Forefront or at least trying to be was cibil Dre ranked 68th with a poultry 31 points his yellow demon Bell clutched tightly like a child security blanket was a pitiful trophy from an earlier Victory against an even less impressive fiend his companions Iadn 53rd with 52 points and benat Romero 62nd

with 36 points weren't fairing much better if points were currency they'd all be in Deb cibil hoisted the Bell High the symbol of their mediocrity and side in frustration with only 12 hours remaining Theo the supposed star of their group was nowhere to be found but Sybil's annoyance wasn't just about Theo's absence it was also about their dwindling supplies resources they had painstakingly rationed for him Now seeming like a colossal waste eido the group's self-proclaimed theorist chimed in with begrudging admiration Theo's definitely up to something Grand he speculated bitterness tinging his voice while we're out

here rolling around in the dirt for scraps he's probably already rewriting the rankings but the quiet didn't linger without warning orian Gardner emerged from the Shadows like a phantom of death ranked 14th with a daunting 173 points his Sudden appearance was as chilling as the blade he wielded he struck with Precision driving his sword into Sybil's back with a sickening crunch syil froze his triumphant grin morphing into wide-eyed horror as blood seeped through his clothes staining the forest floor orian withdrew the blade with practiced ease the fluidity of his motion disturbingly casual his cold unfeeling

eyes regarded cibil as though he were nothing more than a discarded Pawn why Yod's voice shattered the silence trembling with both rage and fear orian unfazed twirled his sword in an almost theatrical display of arrogance his lips curled into a cruel smirk as his gaze swept over the group dripping with disdain why he repeated mockingly his tone filled with Venom because you're nothing but sacrificial Lambs in my grander scheme the gleaming blade in his hand caught the dim light casting ominous Reflections on the faces of the Horrified group he raised it again daring anyone to

challenge him the tension hung thick suffocating as none dared move against him meanwhile deep with within L Brock's Lair far removed from the chaos and bloodshed Theo stood under the watchful gaze of the ancient dragon herself the caverns oppressive Stillness was broken only by the weight of her golden eyes which burned with an unsettling mix of curiosity and judgment her presence was Monumental her gaze Heavy enough to crush even the most stalwart of Mortals when she finally spoke her voice rolled through the cavern like distant Thunder carrying with it the weight of countless centuries your

progress it is remarkable she rumbled her tone betraying a faint undercurrent of approval even the most gifted prodigies would struggle to achieve what Theo had in under a month just as Theo was about to cross a critical threshold in mastering the Grimoire of Aman A Familiar system notification flickered before him the message announced his partial Mastery of the grimo war and a slow confident smirk spread across his face all is the overachieving Beast student huh Theo muttered to himself a Ry tone slipping into his voice this world demanded Perfection at every turn and he had

long since accepted the challenge the grimoire itself was Infamous its requirements so impossibly high that few Ever dared attempt its Secrets it demanded immense Mana reserves and a dragon's heart an unthinkable combination for most but Theo uniquely positioned had both it allowed him to achieve the unachievable his progress leagues ahead of what anyone else could dream yet the system ever the unrelenting Taskmaster wasn't about to let him Revel in his victory another notification popped up cold and clinical skill acquired hatching Synchro rank C Theo's smirk faltered frustration bubbling beneath the surface he scoffed at the

screen glaring as if his disdain alone could re write the system's judgment a rank C skill after pushing himself to the brink of death sure the ability to manipulate residual thoughts through psychokinesis sounded impressive on paper but it wasn't the Godlike Firepower or reality warping spells he had envisioned where were the Earth shattering explosions the Galaxy bending Feats his grumbles echoed faintly through the cavern drawing the attention of L Brock the massive Dragon opened her ancient eyes her golden irises gleaming with faint disapproval a heavy sigh escaped her as she regarded Theo with an air

of quiet Authority humans she began her voice calm yet cutting always so quick to complain you've barely scraped by just enough to meet the minimum standard of being my significant other Theo blinked her words leaving him Momentarily dumbfounded he opened his mouth to respond but found himself at a loss was this some some kind of cosmic joke a cruel twist of fate that had landed him in such a bizarre partnership before he could recover L Brock's tone shifted her words taking on a grave seriousness enough with your petty frustrations she chided your time is limited

my recovery is bound to a 2-year deadline if you fail to prioritize my Revival she paused Her golden eyes boring into his with a weight that threatened to crush him we both died our Fates are now intertwined you cannot afford to falter Theo Theo wasn't about to crumble under the weight of a dragon's decree a grin tugged at his lips sharp and defiant as he locked eyes with L Brock guess you're stuck with me now he declared his determination settling like an unshakable Foundation L Brock's golden gaze burned with an Intensity only Millennia could Forge

so be it she said her voice ringing like an ancient him smoke curled around Theo thick and Alive as she invoked the primordial Covenant when her final Roar shook the heavens her massive form dissipated leaving Theo alone on a Windswept Cliff the vast snowfield stretched out before him a glacial Abyss that mirrored the chaos in his mind the biting wind tugged at his hair as his gaze swept across the Horizon only 12 Hours that's all he had to claw his way out of this he exhaled a plume of Frosty frustration muttering under his breath the

universe really loves setting me up for failure he lashed out at the snow kicking it into the air like an explosion of Frosty confetti the satisfying crunch under his boot didn't ease the weight pressing down on him hunting fiends laughable compared to the stakes he faced it felt like prepping for a neighborhood snowball fight while Standing at the edge of a war zone failure wasn't just breathing down his neck it was tap dancing on his back first place it wasn't slipping away it had turned into Usain Bolt sprinting into the distance with Theo left choking

on dust and regret then like a match struck in the dark an idea sparked his thoughts drifted back to that ceremony axian his rival the smirking Predator who had seized the top rank with ruthless Precision the memory slapped Him awake The Sting sharp and cold as the Winter Wind if Theo wanted to win hunting tokens wouldn't be enough he needed a strategy that wasn't just clever but ruthless the idea of stealing Bells from others took root curling its dark tendrils around his thoughts his lips twitched into a bitter smile the kind that tasted like defeat

and resolve all at once heroics they'd never get him anywhere in this game the bitter truth dug deeper this Wasn't just a plan it felt like standing at the edge of V villainy peering into the abyss Theo shook his head trying to steal his resolve then like a Shard of glass piercing the silence a rustling sound snapped Theo back to reality his head whipped toward the noise every sense suddenly razor sharp Out of the Shadows stumbled a figure their unsteady steps carving gruesome Crimson streaks into the snow Theo's breath caught as the metallic Tang of

blood hit the air But it wasn't just the sight of their wounds that churned his gut a voice broke the Frozen Stillness soft but as cutting as broken ice found you Theo froze his body stiff as Stone his veins iced over with Dread the words didn't just chill him they sunk into his chest like Claws from the Shadows a presence emerged heavy and suffocating as if the forest itself recoiled in dread the faint Moonlight carved out a figure a frail silhouette leaning against a tree Barely upright Theo froze his breath catching Ray he whispered his

voice trembling his heart clenched as recognition set in it was Ray Ragnar her name and ache in his chest she swayed unsteadily her armor slick with blood that dripped onto the snow like dark ink bleeding across a blank canvas her trembling sword hung from limp fingers Theo's legs moved before his mind could catch up Ray what happened to you he asked asked voice tight with worry his Eyes darted to her chest where blood seeped from a deep wound carving a grim pattern against the metal that was no BEAST's mark it was deliberate human his stomach

Twisted was this an attack he murmured his thoughts spinning who did this Ray tell me her head barely lifted and her lips parted as if it took everything in her to speak West we need to go west the words were a fragile thread holding her together but it snapped her knees buckled and she Collapsed with a heart-wrenching cry that echoed through the forest Theo lunged forward catching her just before she hit the ground her blood smeared his gloves as he cradled her his arms protective yet trembling stay with me he pleaded his voice low and

steady though fear clawed at his composure he gently lowered her to the snow ensuring her fragile body wouldn't bear more weight than it could handle his gaze locked onto the trembling sword still clutched In her weak hand without hesitation he pried it from her grasp the blade felt cold unv alive as though it carried a pulse of its own a faint Eerie glow radiated from the bloodied steel a sudden jolt ran through Theo his system activated The Familiar interface flashing before his eyes dragon egg synchronization skill activated he stiffened as another notification appeared reading the

memories of Ray Ragnar the forest blurred the real world Slipping away as a tide of fragmented memories engulfed his mind the first image sharpened Ray Ragnar her fiery red eyes blazing with both frustration and determination her head hung low as if carrying an invisible weight something about her stance radiated Defiance but there was something else too a question an unspoken conflict tied to him the memory dissolved replaced by the scene of a snowy Forest a group huddled intense Whispers their expressions Veiled in unease he should have been here by now one muttered their voice a

mix of worry and impatience another a figure oozing arrogance let out a low chuckle he will the traps at training ground for will guide him straight to us just like we planned like a lamb to slaughter at the group Center stood a leader whose composure was chilling they observed a line of captives kneeling in the snow their faces pale with fear and defeat One guard hesitated glancing nervously at the captives do we really need to kill them another stepped back their voice trembling they they're innocent the leader lips curled into a cold smirk innocence is

irrelevant their blade hovered glinting in the Moonlight we don't need this many two or three will do the captives flinched their Terror palpable a commanding voice cut through like a blade enough the group turned as Ray Ragnar stepped into the clearing the Wind howled around her snow swirling at her feet like an omen axian turned his sharp gaze toward Ry his features a mask of cold disdain his lips twisted into a cruel smirk and his words laced with Venom cut through the cold night air well if it isn't Ray Ragnar herself he sneered what's this

come to deliver a lecture or just to interfere Ray's steps were deliberate her voice rang out calm yet unyielding each word resonating with power this stops now she declared Release them the wind stilled as if the very forest was holding its breath axian smirk deepened but there was a flicker of something darker behind his confidence release them his tone dripped with mockery yet his voice carried an edge of warning these are your demands he leaned forward slightly his words a low snarl let me make this clear Ry you don't have the power to dictate terms

here walk away before things turn ugly Ry didn't Flinch her voice came sharper Colder they're Theo's comrades this is his fight but your actions have crossed every line you're finished for a split second axion's arrogant veneer cracked his eyes narrowed you've chosen him axian hissed Theo sighed that's what this is about isn't it before the words fully left his lips Ry moved with a burst of speed she launched herself into the air her sword blazing with raw Untamed energy the air crackled around her as she brought the weapon down in a Devastating Arc axian stepped

back his reflexes razor sharp his blade rising to meet hers their weapons clashed with an Earth shaking Roar sending sparks flying and the ground trembling beneath the sheer force of their blows the battlefield erupted into chaos the air alive with the Symphony of clashing steel and raw power Theo stood Frozen his mind whirling between the chaos unfolding before him and the barrage of system notifications blinking in his Vision restricted access missing State detected frustration burned in his chest his voice trembling with the weight of everything crashing down on him he turned to Ry his tone

sharp how long have you known about this why didn't you tell me Ray's expression softened guilt flickering in her eyes her voice when she finally spoke was low and Laden with regret axion's obsession with you began the moment the competition started she had admitted when you didn't show he Used your comrades as bait this was always about drawing you out her words hit Theo like a hammer he staggered back disbelief and anger Waring on his face because of me he whispered the words barely audible Ry stepped closer her voice steadier now despite the weight of

the truth I didn't come here just to warn you Theo I came to stop him for them and for you Theo's frustration ignited into Fury axion's name burned in his mind a bitter reminder of betrayal And Injustice no more he growled through gritted teeth I'm not the same man you remember stepping forward Theo's voice thundered shattering the oppressive silence axian where are my comrades a cry echoed through the forest cutting through the tension Like a Knife he's here a soldier shouted stumbling into the clearing Theos at the northern Cliffs the camp stirred the air thick

with anticipation the leader turned sharply his gaze cold and calculating Are you certain he demanded yes sir the soldier panted a Sinister grin spread across axion's face his Crimson eyes glowing with a twisted mixture of excitement and Malice he exhaled slowly his voice low and venomous so Theo finally shows his face his his knuckles whitened as Fury boiled within him but before it could consume him entirely a chilling voice echoed in his mind calm and calculated it slithered through his thoughts like a serpent young Master Axian it whispered each word measured and deliberate do not

let your rage blind you the hostages are the key axian froze the voice reeling him back from the brink he exhaled sharply forcing his smirk to return understood he murmured Theo reay's voice rang out thick with desperation her bloodshot eyes caught the faint light her battered face amplifying the raw anguish in her tone don't do it she pleaded stumbling toward him her Trembling Hands outstretched you Can't face axian alone tears Streed her bruised cheeks as she added the intelligence Bureau they're overseers they're with him Sat trp Theo they've made sure you'll have no way out

Theo's resolve momentarily faltered her words striking deeper than he expected shock flickered across his face before his composure solidified again unyielding as steel but Ray's final plea made him pause hesitation creeping into his stance you can't fight them she insisted Her voice trembling you can't win against what's waiting for you her words hung like frost in the frigid air Sharp and biting Theo stood silent locked in an internal battle reason clashing against his drive to act Ry broke the tension her voice strained and uneven this isn't a test Theo this isn't some trial You Can

Survive by sheer will it's a Slaughter and you're walking into it alone forcing herself to steady she tried again her voice softer but urgent Listen to me find the other overseers convince them to fight with you alone you'll die together maybe you have a chance Theo shook his head his jaw set in defiance his voice cut through her plea like a blade there's no time he said his tone final he inhaled deeply the icy air sharp in his lungs as his resolve crystallized his gaze flicked to The Blood Stained snow a chilling reminder of the

danger ahead I'm grateful re he said his voice calm but Laced with urgency but if I don't act now my comrades will pay the price I can't let that happen Theo erupted his voice cracking with anguish I can't lose them he shouted memories of his comrades flashing before him they laughter their shared dream of defeating the second blooming those moments now felt like cruel ghosts haunting him Ray's voice turned bitter you think I don't understand she snapped this is Ragnar Theo survival demands sacrifice that's Our truth our Legacy for a fleeting moment Theo's mind flickered

to a memory of his comrades laughter their vow to stand together but those cherished moments felt impossibly distant now anger surged and his voice lashed out why he demanded why do you always stand in my way Rey why can't you let me do what I have to her eyes widened in shock his words hitting her like a low pain etched itself into her face and tears spilled down her bruised cheeks hot and Bright against the cold but Theo stood firm his breath heavy but his resolve unwavering his gaze locked on the path ahead memories of

the Rose Palace erupted into a blazing Inferno Flames clawing at the dark sky like a living Beast the palace burned its pristine walls crumbling into ash from the Shadows a cold voice pierced the chaos sharp and scornful the fool of Ragnar it sneered branding Theo a failure you carry this burden but have learned Nothing the air turned heavy and cold a being of Otherworldly power emerged its glowing blue eyes piercing Theo as if unraveling every secret he held shoulders trembling under the weight of emotion between them lay chaos overturned crates shattered objects and Crimson stained

snow telling a grim tale of violence its polished surface smeared with blood nearby a tiny bell rested its Crimson stre surface a cruel casualty of the Mayhem kneeling his hands trembling He whispered a name that carried a chilling weight figures began to gather Rivals allies and legends their names carrying immense weight the tension mounted the snow and wind forming a brutal stage for the looming battle hulkus rank fifth loomed like a Titan his raw power radiating from his massive frame Erica her fiery red hair braided with Precision exuded Poise and might her Rank and score

a symbol of Dependable strength Remington nario Ranked second carried a quiet Authority that bellied his overwhelming power the pieces of an inevitable confrontation were falling into place suddenly a thunderous Roar shattered the frozen air emerging from the smoke a colossal creature appeared its towering frame Rippling with monstrous power swinging its massive Club it Unleashed a devastating force that tore the ground apart Theo stood firm gripping his sword tightly the blade gleamed in the pale Light as he surged forward with blinding speed his strikes precise and unrelenting each swing carried the silent Menace of his resolve

urging his enemies to step aside or face annihilation a fleeting thought crossed Theo's mind perhaps seal and the hostages were still alive analyzing the chaos Theo realized the Grim truth axian was colluding with the overseers and at the center of it all stood Ed the architect of this deadly trap the Betrayal burned in Theo's chest fueling his Rage with a forceful swing of his sword crimsen energy erupted splitting the Battlefield dragon's third claw he muttered unleashing the devastating attack as fisers cracked through the icy ground the overseers sent by axian were no accident their calculated

arrival was designed to end Theo's life but instead of Despair Theo's Fury sharpened his Focus as the massive creature closed in its Roars shaking the battlefield Theo Charged forward narrowing his gaze Theo locked eyes with his monstrous adversary he was prepared for this with a thunderous leap Theo's blade became a storm of Vengeance each strike landed with explosive ferocity sending Crimson Torrance arcing through the air to stain the once pristine snow the brutal rhythm of combat was relentless every swing a testament to his unshakable determination not far away axian towered His eyes burning like Embers

his fists were Relentless each blow a calculated Act of Destruction frustration and disdain twist twied his expression his movements brimming with barely contained Fury weakness disgusted him futility enraged him to axian those who dared oppose him were nothing more than Echoes of failure waiting to be silenced a cruel grin spread across his face as he delivered another devastating strike his every move designed to assert dominance His icy resolve hung in the air like a death nail a promise not a threat that none who stood in his path would leave alive as the tension built to

a fever pitch a voice sharp and commanding shattered the Stillness the director of the intelligence bureau's words echoed in axian mind a reminder to stay the course axian jaw tightened the irritation in his narrowed eyes betraying his simmering rage yet he gave a Curt nod his bitterness palpable as he Gripped his weapon and advanced the cold steel in his hand seemed to Echo the hollow resentment that burned within him a grim reminder of betrayal and Vengeance deferred the battlefield hushed the air thick with unease a single name broke the silence spoken with Venom and weight

Theo the sound rippled through the frigid expanse reverberating like a drum beat of Destiny Theo emerged from the Shadows his steps slow and deliberate each one An unspoken challenge Crimson eyes burned through the frozen air their intensity unmatched The Sword in his hand reflected The Cold Light its gleam a mirror of his unyielding will he moved as though the battlefield belonged to him a force of Reckoning that no one could deny axion's lips curled into a sneer as he watched Theo approach his irritation Twisted into something darker anticipation laced with Fury the long awaited confrontation

had begun the Tension so palpable it seemed to tighten the air around them finally axian muttered his voice low but filled with Menace his words carried the weight of his frustration Theo's response was silence his bloodied face stoic and unyielding conveyed More Than Words ever could the steadfast determination in his eyes mirrored the edge of his blade sharp and Relentless the Stillness shattered as Theo's sword sliced through the icy air a deadly whisper preceding His next move axian stood on moved his body marked by battle yet his cold piercing glare remained Untouched by weakness his

voice dripping with sarcasm sliced through the tension as he addressed Theo directly let's skip the pleasantries he sneered it's time we finished this the air thickened the atmosphere charged with the inevitability of their impending Clash Theo remained calm his smirk deepening into something sharp and bitter when he Finally spoke his his words cut like a blade what's wrong axian afraid of losing the taunt struck home a crack appearing in axian composed demeanor his eyes widened in disbelief before narrowing into burning embers of Fury his hands tightened into fists his composure fraying under the weight of

Theo's words Theo pressed the advantage his steps measured and deliberate as his voice rang out with icy Authority you've gone to such lengths traps soldiers Endless schemes and yet your eyes betray you he tilted his head slightly studying axian reaction you're afraid afraid of losing to me the battlefield seemed to hold its breath the accusation hanging in the air like a storm cloud axion's followers shifted uneasily their confidence faltering as they glanced at their leader axian voice broke the silence trembling with Fury how dare you he spam his teeth clenched in barely restrained Rage do

you think baseless accusations can shake me Theo's smirk widened cutting through axian protest Like a Knife then prove it he said his tone deceptively light letun end this as Warriors should with a proper duel the challenge landed like a Thunderclap freezing the battlefield axian eyes burned with indignation but his grip on his blade tightened betraying the anger simmering beneath his arrogant facade Theo's voice dropped colder and sharper What's the matter axian lost your pride along the way his words struck like a whip forcing a sneer onto axion's face as he stepped forward the taunt goting

him into action you'll regret this axian snarled his voice venomous his blade flashed cutting through the air with deadly Precision the first Clash of Steel echoed through the Frozen expanse a violent Symphony of Fury and determination blow after blow rained down axian strikes unrelenting yet Theo Met each one his movements fluid his defense unwavering blood streak the snow as axion's blade found its Mark tearing through Theo's armor but the defiant fire in Theo's eyes never wavered axian smirked his voice dripping with contempt the might of a Ragnar child is this all you have to offer

Theo's response was calm his words laced with quiet Menace you'll see the strength of the Ragnar name soon enough with a sharp flourish axian Unleashed his deadliest move his sword danced through the air summoning the dragon's Roar a technique so Fierce the ground trembled beneath it the triple Dragon claw followed it strikes ferocious as if the spirit of a dragon had come to life for a moment even axian hesitated his eyes flickering with disbelief as a phantom Dragon roared its presence shaking the battlefield but Theo stood firm his sword gleaming with an otherworldly Brilliance the

light Reflected off it seemed to part the chaos his unflinching resolve cutting through the storm is that all you've got Theo's voice rang out calm and disdainful his words like his stance were unyielding a blade aimed directly at axion's fragile composure axion's face Twisted with rage his confidence crumbling under Theo's unwavering Defiance the battle raged on each Clash of their blades a thunderous Testament to their determination with Every strike it became clear this wasn't just a fight it was a reckoning orian Gardner a commanding leader of the scaled Dragon Guild LED out a roar that

echoed across the battlefield his frustration cutting through the icy air sweat trickled down his temples betraying the dis belief etched into his face his thoughts spiraled back to the Awakening ceremony where faint suspicions had first surfaced suspicions that now festered into inescapable doubt Meanwhile Theo stro forward his steps measured and Resolute each imprint he left in the snow seemed carved by raw power chilling the remaining onlookers into frozen Terror oran's muttered words barely reached his own ears how how can Theo wield such overwhel helming strength the reality unfolding before him defied logic shaking the very

foundations of his understanding Theo's capacity to obliterate everything in his path was no longer deniable it was a Force too vast to ignore wiping his brow oran's expression darkened the chilling possibility clawed at his mind axian could lose for the first time betrayal whispered its poisonous Temptation the thought of siding with Theo nod at him memories of axion's arrogance fueling the treacherous notion a bead of sweat rolled down his cheek as he silenced the voice in his mind his resolve hardening clamping down on his hesitation orian forced a smirk and rallied himself with A sharp

command that sliced through the panic like a blade He barked scatter now his voice snapped The Guild into motion sending them fleeing into the shadows as the scaled Dragon Guild dissolved into the night another voice cut through the howling wind let axian deal with this mess we act independently the scene shifted to a memory bathed in a fading sunset's Golden Light a young boy with glowing Crimson eyes stood silent as a man's firm yet gentle voice filled the Air axian the man said his words Laden with expectation the Throne of Ragnar is your destiny for

your mother your uncle and the legacy of of the trovan family you must Ascend the boy's wide eyes flickered with doubt and determination as the man's gaze softened a confident smile curling his lips the name Ragnar is a mask he continued his tone turning almost wistful you carry the blood of trovan and with it the weight of Duty you cannot refuse the boy hesitated his Voice trembling with both innocence and growing conviction do I even understand what you're asking of me the memory shattered snapping back to the present axian smirk was icy his confidence teetering

on arrogance snow exploded upward as he lunged forward his war cry ripping through the frozen air Theo Ragnar he roared his sword cutting toward Theo with ferocious speed Theo met the assault headon his blade locking with axians in a collision that sent a Cascade of Sparks into the sky the deafening Clash reverberated like a Thunderclap each strike amplifying the tension that gripped the battlefield axion's eyes burned with Fury as his Relentless strikes forced Theo to Parry blow after blow each swing carried the weight of axion's Rage his guttural growls echoing across the frostbitten field yet

Theo's movements were deliberate his defense precise and unwavering sweat glistened on his brow But his focus never wavered the battlefield was no longer a simple stage it was was a crucible every Clash of Steel carried the weight of Destinies yet to be forged back at a grand chamber a commanding voice shattered the silence theor Ragnar has confronted axian Ragnar the battle has begun around the table figures exchanged sharp glances the atmosphere brimming with tension demon dragon erupted into laughter his fists trembling with excitement Theo will Crush him he boomed his voice filled with unshakable confidence

across the room the Elder Dragon muttered under his breath disbelief clouding his Steely gaze how did Theo survive his shock deepened replaying the failure of the Ambush meant to eliminate Theo Ed exhaled softly a flicker of relief in his sharp eyes his smile was faint but calculated masking the intricate plan forming in his mind his voice broke the quiet with measured calm I've received New intelligence he announced as one of his subordinates stepped forward Theo and axian are locked in a duel Ed's eyes gleamed faintly as a flicker of violet light illuminated his scheming grin

his whispered thoughts betrayed his confidence The Swordsman will finish axian once the relic's truth is revealed on the battlefield axion's disbelief flashed in his eyes as Theo Unleashed a secret technique with fluid movements Theo activated the gesture Str rried his Attacks becoming unpredictable and impossible to track each strike carried deadly Precision forcing axian back step by step yet beneath the pressure axion's confidence burned brighter watching Theo's movements he smirked faintly his grip tightening on his blade I can read you he murmured his voice calm and cutting no motion escapes me in a blur axion's blade

tore through the air a masterful sword throwing technique the Luminous weapon hurdled forward with Devastating speed its trajectory so precise it seemed to Halt time the onlookers paled their breaths hitching as the blades whistle cut through the air Theo's composure faltered his eyes narrowing as he recognized the attack's deadly intent Theo's heart pounded as his mind reeled a sword throwing technique the memory surged unbidden dragging him to a moment from his past life a moment seared into his very Soul he recalled the cold steel of a blade Piercing his chest robbing him of breath and

life it had been the same technique a Flawless throw that had ended his existence before he could uncover who had orchestrated the burning of the Rose Palace back on the battlefield axian cold unwavering voice cut through the chaos you should know he declared his face a mask of seriousness using a secret technique with predetermined movements only informs your opponent of your next location blood dripped Rhythmically from the blade Theo now held tightly staining the pristine snow in dark Crimson his fingers trembled but not from fear from Revelation his wide stunned eyes locked onto the weapon

as the realization struck him like a Thunderclap he muttered hely so it was you all along the fragmented memories of his past life spiraled into sharp Clarity he had seen this technique before this precise throw this deadly Precision the figure who had killed him in that life had revealed their face after the strike removing their mask to reveal none other than axian Ragnar Theo's breathing quickened as anger and grief intertwined I was faded to die he thought bitterly weak powerless to defend anyone or uncover who destroyed the Rose Palace but his thoughts shifted Clarity Dawning

Evelyn's invest instigation and renan's slip helped me see the truth renan and the chamia Palace were deeply entangled in this conspiracy and now it all makes sense the troen clan they were behind it and among them only axian Ragnar uses this rare sword throwing technique a move so arrogant only someone drunk on their own power would dare the connection settled in his mind like a stone dropped into a still Lake sending ripples through his resolve he snapped back to to the present his expression darkened his eyes glowing a menacing Red Rage boiled Beneath his calm

facade as he gripped the sword tighter the metal groaning under the pressure it was you he growled his voice carrying the weight of certainty axian sword cracked then shattered in Theo's grip splintering into two Jagged pieces Theo's voice thundered across the battlefield raw with emotion why are you so desperate to kill me for the first time axian faltered his stoic mask cracked as disbelief flashed across his face he Muttered under his breath how how did he break a sword with his bare hands Theo wasn't finished he gripped the shattered Hilt in his bloodied hand his

resolve sharpening into an unbreakable Edge this time is different he thought I'll protect myself and my comrades without hesitation Theo hurled the Broken Blade toward Axion axian tilted his head easily evading the throw what's with this half-baked imitation he scoffed but his confidence wavered as a suffocating Aura exploded from Theo the battlefield seemed to freeze the temperature plummeting as an unearthly Red Energy radiated from him axion's eyes widened his hand instinctively reaching for his weapon what what is this he stammered internally this isn't ordinary killing intent sweat Beed on axon's brow as Theo closed the

distance between them with terrifying speed axian barely managed to block the incoming strike but the force behind it sent him skidding backward his Boots carving trenches in the snow Theo pressed forward his Relentless barrage of Sword strikes leaving no room for retaliation each swing was a storm each thrust a declaration axian struggled his mind racing to comprehend this shift in Theo's power was he hiding his skills all along why Theo's voice sharp and mocking pierced through axian thoughts when are you going to show me your so-called strength axen gritting his teeth axian lunged grabbing Theo's

wrist With a calculated move with a powerful pull he drew Theo toward him his blade poised to deliver a decisive blow but Theo Twisted at the last moment evading a fatal strike the blade grazed his shoulder drawing blood but Theo countered with masterful footwork parrying axian follow-up attack and leaping backward to create space axian steadied himself his eyes narrowing as he observed Theo where did this power come from he thought the uncertainty Gnawing at his confidence but before he could act Theo vanished what axian barely had time to process before Theo reappeared at his side

his sword slicing through the air with lethal prec PR ision axion's weapon flew from his grasp Landing with a muted thud in the snow Theo's gaze locked onto axians his eyes blazing with unrelenting Fury his voice dripped with Menace as he taunted do you know what it feels like to be pierced through the stomach axian axian met his Gaze his own expression a mixture of rage and disbelief bloodlust and Madness clashed in their eyes as the two Warriors prepared for the next strike Theo raised his blade intent on ending the battle as his sword descended

with deadly intent the scene abruptly shifted leaving the outcome uncertain elsewhere Remington crouched over the blood stain the congealed Crimson Stark against the frostbitten ground his sharp eyes narrowed as though he could will the Grim truth before him to change the unnatural Silence of the scene screamed louder than words someone had been taken this isn't a monster attack he muttered running a gloved hand through the streak of blood this looks like someone was dragged away behind him the Towering hulkus gripped his massive sword his expression one of confusion taken by who Remington straightened his gaze

tracing the blood trail into the shadowed Forest his voice turned cold waited with grim Certainty there's only one person who'd pull something like this axian hulkus blured disbelief twisting his tone he's in first place why would he bother what's he after Remington's lips pressed into a thin line apparently first place isn't enough he's taken Theo's subordinates bait to draw him out my guess he plans to eliminate Theo at the second blooming ceremony hulkus face rened with anger his fists clenching as if he could crush The Injustice in his grasp that's cheating what kind of garbage

move is that he should fight fair from a few steps away Eric is calm icy voice cut through the air so what hulkus turned to her his righteous Fury dissolving into bewilderment what do you mean so what Erica's gaze didn't waver fixed on a distant point this is Ragnar's blooming ceremony she said her tone sharp as a blade survival of the fittest the strong Devour the weak that's the way it's Always been hulkus gawked at her his disbelief almost comical that doesn't make it right it doesn't Remington interjected rubbing his temples in frustration and that's

why I hate Ragnar even strength gets twisted into something slimy and underhanded at this Erica's gaze snap to him her voice turning lethal careful with your words Remington do you really mean that Remington met her glare head on his resolve unshaken I do and I'm going After Theo's subordinates if the roles were reversed Theo wouldn't hesitate to save mine if you come Erica you could actually make a difference hulkus perked up his hope rekindled yeah Erica you're coming right Erica sighed her expression softening momentarily before she spoke her words as cutting as frostbite no I'm

not interested hulkus froze his enthusiasm Vanishing what why not without sparing him a glance Erica turned and walked away her voice cold And final I came to meet Theo Ragnar I don't waste my time on people beneath me hul's fists trembled with barely contained Fury his voice booming through the icy Forest like a war horn Erica are you trash or something Erica froze mid-step her shoulders stiffening as though hulkus had just signed his own death warrant slowly she turned her icy glare locking onto him with a ferocity that could silence even the Bravest Warriors before

the Brewing sibling spat Could escalate Remington stepped between them his voice calm but commanding Erica her mask of indifference faltered her sharp gaze shifting to him I know why you want to meet Theo he said evenly his tone is steady as his resolve help me this time and I promise it'll bring you closer to what you're after Erica regarded him like a predator considering whether the prey was worth the effort finally she sighed her voice as icy as the air around them fine but don't slow Me down the three trudged into the snowy Forest the

wind biting at their faces with every step Remington's expression hardened his thoughts a steady Mantra hold on everyone I'm coming to save you then a mocking voice sliced through the cold air stop right there figures emerged from the Shadows of the trees their swords glinting like predatory fangs at the center of the group stood Orion a smirk plastered across his face as Though victory was already his well well Orion sneered stepping forward Remington didn't think youd ditch us to team up with these clowns hulkus bristled grinding his teeth so loudly that nearby Birds might have

reconsidered their nesting choices did you just call us muscleheads Orion's smirk widened practically daring hulkus to charge I didn't say it but hey if the shoe fits Remington stepped forward his voice sharp and unyielding Orion move I don't Want to fight you Orion's grin faltered but he raised his sword to block their path sorry no can do Remington's jaw tightened with a deliberate motion he unsh sheathed his blade then you leave me no choice the forest erupted into chaos as the two groups clashed steel screamed against steel each strike sending snow flying in Wild tempests

not far from the Skirmish Theo's comrades fared no better bound tightly on The Frozen Ground they resembled miserable Poorly wrapped Parcels of Misfortune one man his eyes burning with determination stared at the shattered blade lying near his feet this is the chance young Master Theo gave me he thought his inner monologue brimming with unnecessary drama slowly agonizingly slowly he reached for the blade his movements so painstakingly sluggish that even a passing snail might have rolled its eyes elsewhere as the conflict reached its peak a third figure Suddenly Dove between them deflecting both blades with a

single arrogant sweep of his sword Theo blinked moment stunned as the newcomer raised his head dramatically like an actor savoring the spotlight Liam trovan the man declared smugly his voice as polished as his pristine coat senior prosecutor exam supervisor and professional buzkill axian jaw tightened his expression unreadable Theo staggered back incredulous wait was this guy just Waiting for the perfect dramatic moment to jump in Liam straighten his tone dripping with condescension I'm sorry young Master axian he said escort young Master axian away he commanded from the Shadows hooded figures emerged like specters handing axian his

weapon before ushering him away axian accepted the blade in silence his jaw clenched so tightly it seemed his teeth might shatter Liam turned back to Theo his sword gleaming ominously in the pale Light you fought enough he declared with undeserved authority I'll handle the rest Theo's grip tightened on his blade his Defiance as sharp as his weapon handle the rest oh no pal we're not done here Liam lunged his strikes maddeningly precise and unbearably elegant Theo's muscles screamed in protest as he blocked and countered his teeth gritted in determination the strong Theo thought every Parry

an act of sheer willpower but I Won't Back Down Liam raised his Sword High the decisive strike gleaming in the pale ghostly light his expression was cold his movements calculated for the kill but suddenly an attack on Liam cam from behind Liam froze midswing his body jerking violently blood bubbled from his mouth staining the snow he staggered choking on the Betrayal written across his face young Master axian what are you doing he rasped weakly behind him stood axen his blade buried deep in Liam's back his eyes Burned with Fury as he growled his voice colder

than the Winter Winds I never told you to interfere the battlefield stood eerily still shrouded in an almost tangible silence it wasn't the Calm before a storm but the aftermath of an act so shocking that even the biting wind seemed to hold its breath axian had pierced Liam from behind his sword driven Merc LLY through the man's torso Theo froze unable to believe what he was witnessing his eyes widened in disbelief As the Crimson stains spread across Liam's chest Vivid against the Stark whiteness of the snow Liam too seemed paralyzed blood spurting from his mouth

as his expression shifted from shock to anguish he staggered forward clutching his wound as if trying to comprehend the Betrayal axian however remained unmoved his face was devoid of guilt or hesitation as he pulled his sword free in one fluid merciless motion the sound of metal leaving flesh was sharp and Cold a harbinger of Liam's inevitable collapse the bloodied blade glinted in the faint light as Liam crumpled to his knees his blood pooling beneath him and staining the icy ground a deep red the three Swordsmen who had been watching from a distance shouted in unison

their voices laced with disbelief Young Master axian what in the world are you doing axian turned to face them his teeth clenched his eyes burning with an intensity that silenced even their cries His expression was one of pure Menace as he spoke his voice low and dark you interfered he growled you thought I would lose that is an insult to the successor of the Ragnar Clan Theo watched the events unfold with gritted teeth his knuckles white from the grip on his sword his mind raced anger flaring as he thought axian you madman who would do

something so cruel to their own comrades axion's eyes flickered with a dark memory one that stirred within Him like a dormant Beast awakened his voice softened to a menacing tone almost a whisper as if speaking to an invisible Spectre fine he muttered his gaze locking on to Theo I'll acknowledge you you're strong the scene within axion's mind shifted drawing him into the haunting recollection of his past his uncle loomed before him his voice cold and calculated the weak are useless his uncle had said but you you are gifted axian you must Crush everyone beneath You

and rise above them only then can you claim the Ragnar throne in that memory axian had stood over his first kill blood splattered across his face his eyes eyes gleaming red with The Madness of a predator who had tasted his first Victory his uncle's words echoed a mantra that fueled his ambition and planted seeds of an unquenchable hunger for dominance as axion's thoughts snapped back to the present the same maddened expression twisted his face he Fixed Theo with an unyielding glare and snarled you must remain weaker than me that is how it should be his

tone grew sharper laced with Fury I am destined to be the strongest to claim the throne there is no way I would lose to Someone Like You with a guttural roar axian gripped his sword tighter his Fury manifesting as a blood red aura that pulsed around him like a living entity his voice thundered anything that stands in my way I'll kill it all he charged at Theo his sword raised High the aura trailing behind him like a streak of malevolence axian brought his blade down in a devast ating Arc the impact shattering the ground beneath

their feet dust and debris exploded into the air creating a thick Veil around him but Theo had already moved he darted to the side with practiced ease his movements fluid and calculated as the dust began to settle Theo emerged from the haze midair his sword poised for a strike With precision and determination he descended toward axian his blade aimed at his opponent's Expos osed flank axian barely managed to block the strike the force of the impact reverberating through his arms and sending him stumbling backward his chest heaved blood trickling from a fresh wound that Theo's

blade had inflicted despite the block his widened eyes betrayed his shock meanwhile the other three Swordsmen rushed to Liam's side one of Them knelt beside him his voice trembling with concern sir Liam are you all right Liam coughed violently blood staining his lips as he struggled to speak what are you all doing here he rased he turned his bloodshot eyes toward them and growled don't mind me go and help young Master axian kill Theo Ragnar one of the Swordsmen hesitated his voice shaking but sir he's resisting so much that go Liam bellowed his voice cracking

with desperation if axian dies We're all finished anyway the scene shifted back to the clash of the ragnars axian groaned in pain as Theo's Relentless strikes forced him back each blow pushing him closer to the edge of his stamina blood spewed from axion's mouth as he struggled to keep up his defenses faltering Theo's expression was cold his attacks merciless axion's mind raced as memories flooded his Consciousness he heard his uncle's Voice once again distant yet piercing Ragnar Is something where even the slightest possibility can change everything even a Candle in the Wind could suddenly ignite

axion's teeth clenched as flashes of past moments assaulted him he saw himself dismissing Theo with a sneer why do you keep worrying about that fool he's a talentless worm he had said with arrogance another memory played I'll toy with him lightly and make him realize his place but the most haunting memory was a voice someone he couldn't Place Warning him with a truth he had refused to accept you know it too don't you the Gap in skill between you and Theo isn't that wide anymore axion's Fury reached its peak as he screamed internally this can't

be happening this can't be all the memories from his past fueled axians rage to its absolute Peak his veins throbbed his breaths ragged as he let out a guttural roar that echoed through the forest his eyes burned with unrelenting Fury as he snarled trash Like you can be easily killed and ripped apart summoning every ounce of his strength axian raised his sword high above his head I am axian Ragnar he bellowed his voice reverberating like thunder I am destined to rule the North and inherit the Ragnar throne with those words he Unleashed his mightiest attack

the energy from his blade surged forward manifesting as a colossal Red Dragon its scales shimmering with malice its eyes glowing with an insatiable thirst For Destruction the dragon roared as it tore through the icy ground its killing intent palpable as it hurdled toward Theo Theo stood motionless his gaze locked on the approaching Beast the sheer heat and energy radiating from axion's attack caused the frost around Theo to melt but he remained unflinching his voice calm yet laced with sorrow cut through the chaos that Throne because of your ambition countless of my people have died as

the dragon loomed closer Theo's grip on his sword tightened his knuckles turning white his Aura began to change the cold blue light surrounding him growing brighter and sharper if you have no intention of giving up that ambition he said his voice now Resolute then I will crush it by force with the power I've been given with a sudden burst of speed Theo charged headlong into axion's attack his sword gleaming with a radiant blue energy that resonated like a heartbeat the air Around him crackled as his Aura intensified forming the shape of a massive Dragon unlike

axion's Beast Theo's blue dragon radiated Clarity and resolve Theo's voice rang out unwavering and filled with all the pain and rage he had endured dragon's claw he roared his eyes gleaming in intense blue as sheer power radiated from his entire being axion's confidence faltered his eyes widened in disbelief as he watched his most powerful attack the embodiment of His unyielding ambition shatter before Theo's might the red dragon crumbled into fragments of crimson energy consumed by the overwhelming force of Theo's blue dragon The Clash of the two dragons sent shock waves that reverberated throughout the forest

from near and far everyone Warriors and beasts alike could feel the tremendous power unleashed by The Duel the sky seemed to tremble and the ground quaked beneath the sheer force of the Collision As the dust and debris began to settle the outcome became clear axian scream of pain tore through the silence as Theo's attack struck him with unrelenting ferocity the sheer magnitude of Theo's power was too much for axian to endure blood erupted from axion's body painting the snow beneath him in Scarlet streaks his once proud stance faltered as his knees buckled the forest seemed

to hold its breath as axion's body fell his head severed cleanly by the devastating force Of Theo's attack remained Airborne for a moment before succumbing to gravity it rolled across the icy ground leaving a crimson Trail in its wake until it came to rest at Theo's feet Theo stood tall amidst the Carnage his sword lowered but still gleaming faintly with residual energy his chest heaved as he caught his breath his expression a mix of Triumph and Melancholy he gazed down at axion's lifeless head his thoughts momentarily Clouded by a flicker of remorse was this truly

the only way he wondered silently but the faces of his Fallen comrades the memories of their pain and sacrifice reminded him that it had to be done in the distance Liam stared in horror his bloody body trembling his voice wavered as he struggled to comprehend the scene before him young Master axian he muttered his words barely audible the realization crashed over him like a tidal wave not only had axian lost the Battle but he had also lost his life axion's lifeless body lay sprawled across the bloodstained ice a chilling Testament to the ferocity of the

fight the Ragnar Heir who had once stood so proudly claiming his Destiny had fallen blood dripped from Theo's sword forming a crimson pool beneath axian severed head the lifeless body of the once proud swordsman lay sprawled on the ground drenched in his own blood the three Swordsmen standing nearby were frozen Their expressions etched with disbelief none of them had anticipated this outcome axian their leader defeated so brutally Liam's eyes widened in shock his voice barely a whisper as he muttered young Master axian his Gaz days lingered on the Headless corpse and something inside him snapped

a fiery rage ignited within him boiling over like an uncontrollable storm his voice roared across the battlefield trembling with Fury kill him kill Theo Ragnar the Three Swordsmen shaken but loyal wasted no time they charged at Theo with murderous intent their blades gleaming as they aimed to avenge their Fallen leader Theo stood unmoving per arched above axion's severed head his blooded sword hanging Loosely at his side he watched the men barreling toward him their faces contorted with hatred a smile crept onto his lips though his mind betrayed the confidence he displayed I'm in trouble Theo

thought Grimly even if I were in Peak condition taking on four senior prosecutors would be impossible and in my current state he tightened his grip on his sword his knuckles whitening as his St stamina waned his Mana reserves were almost completely drained from his earlier attack and his body screamed in protest at the idea of another fight bracing himself for the inevitable Clash Theo's thoughts drifted isn't it about time for him to appear his grip on the sword Tightened further as he prepared to fight to The Bitter End the Swordsmen leaped into the air their

weapons descending in a coordinated strike meant to finish Theo once and for all but before their attacks could land a loud clang echoed through the battlefield the three swordsman's blades were intercepted madir by a trio of figures Remington hulkus and Erica Theo's comrades from training ground for had arrived their weapons gleaming as they Blocked the assault The Clash sent sparks flying and the battlefield erupted into chaos Theo's eyes widened in disbelief as he took in the site before him what he yelled his voice thick with SH shock how did you guys get here Remington turned

his head slightly flashing a confident smile isn't it natural to save a comrade in trouble young Master Theo Theo's disbelief deepened people his people had come to his Aid risking everything to help him He struggled to process this loyalty Erica her sword parrying another blow smirked and shouted over her shoulder you look better in person Theo Ragnar hulkus blocking a strike with Brute Force laughed heartily Theo it's my first time meeting someone as strong as you and I like you already even syil despite his earlier injuries stood firm he gripped his sword tightly his face

painted with determination we sincerely want to Assist young Master Theo he declared his voice steady we can't just run after causing so much trouble swords clashed furiously filling the battle field with the ringing of Steel and bursts of Sparks Remington locked in combat with one of the Swordsmen glanced at his opponent with a sharp glare the intervention of Supervisors is strictly forbidden he said coldly you do know that directly involving yourselves with a candidate is a serious offense right The Swordsman gritted his teeth his frustration mounting as he failed to break through Remington's defenses sweat

Beed on his forehead as he Secret activated a transmission device sir Liam he whispered urgently what should we do the situation has escalated beyond control should we take out these Rescuers as well please advise Liam stood at a distance watching the chaos unfold his mind raced as he analyzed the disastrous situation we're doomed he Thought bitterly we couldn't uncover anything about the rose palace's artifacts we couldn't eliminate theor rag are and now axian is dead he clenched his fists his frustration building with each passing second our involvement is already exposed he realized grimly there's no

way to salvage this now the swordsman's voice broke through Liam's thoughts sir Liam there's no time what are your orders clicking his tongue in irritation Liam Let out a deep sigh then with a voice tinged with madness he said kill them kill every everyone present The Swordsman hesitated his eyes widening in disbelief are we are we really going to do this Liam's face Twisted into a maniacal grin we have to cover our tracks he said Darkly disguise this as an accident make it seem like an abnormal outbreak occurred leading to the extermination of all candidates

on site reaching beneath his cloak Liam Produced a small bag his eyes gleaming with a manic light this is the best way to erase any trace of tren's involvement he opened the bag its contents tumbling onto the ground dozens of dark crystals Spilled Out pulsating with an eerie malevolent energy 25th grade monsters Liam said his voice dripping with malice that should be enough to disguise this as a tragic accident the Swordsmen stared in horror yet despite their fear they nodded in understanding yet yes sir They said their voices shaky but Resolute as Liam prepared to

hurl the dark magic crystals Into The Fray he whispered to himself with a twisted grin everything is for the sake of troen before Liam could proceed with his Sinister plan a sharp wind split the battlefield followed by a sudden blur of movement a blade pierced his side and Liam staggered coughing blood as pain radiated through his body his eyes widened in shock the color draining from His face turning his head slightly he saw the source of the attack a figure cloaked in authority and Menace the man narrowed his eyes his voice cold and sharp Liam

he called his tone void of Mercy Liam's mind raced as his strength began to falter blood poured from his mouth staining his once pristine cloak another mess he thought bitterly inwardly cursing his Misfortune his knees buckled as his vision blurred and he struggled to maintain his balance two Figures stepped forward from the Shadows their white armor gleaming under the faint light overseer seler Gardner and overseer Aaron barcus of the white armored Dragon core emerged their presence commanding immediate attention seler's voice was steady but laced with an undercurrent of anger Liam what on Earth are you

doing before Liam could respond two more figures joined the scene overseer Natasha copel from plum blossom Palace and overseer Sally Garder From water Lotus Palace their Collective arrival radiated an aura of authority that silenced the battlefield Liam's body gave out completely as the light in his eyes dimmed how how did they get here so quickly he thought in despair before collapsing to the ground blood pulled beneath him soaking into the dirt his comrades shouted his name in panic their faces filled with fear and uncertainty SEL planted his sword into the ground his piercing gaze locking

Onto the remaining three Swordsmen freeze he commanded his tone grim and unyielding if you value your lives surrender quietly he took a step forward the weight of his presence suffocating if you want to end up like Liam he added coldly then go ahead resist the three Swordsmen froze their weapons trembling in their hands they knew they were outmatched cornered not only by Theo and his comrades but now by the overseers Themselves with no options left they dropped their weapons raising their hands in surrender the battlefield once chaotic and filled with clashing steel grew silent Theo's

body sagged with relief as he watched the overseers take control of the situation a small tired smile formed on his lips thank goodness he thought we're all safe now but his body pushed Beyond its limits gave out his vision blurred as exhaustion overtook him and he began to collapse Just before he hit the ground a pair of arms caught him Ray Ragnar stood behind him cradling his battered Body In Her Arms her expression was a mix of worry and exasperation that was Reckless she said her voice soft but firm why did you go this far

Theo his head resting on her shoulder smiled faintly in a week weak voice he replied thank you you arrived just in time Ray glanced around at the battlefield the overseers restraining the three Swordsmen axion's lifeless Body lying in a pool of blood and the injured but Victorious Theo In Her Arms she sighed deeply but held him closer her grip firm and protective before Theo could say more Remington rushed to his side his face pale with worry Lord Theo he shouted his voice cracking that was dangerous why didn't you call for me Erica and hulkus pushed

Remington aside their expressions contrasting his concern Erica her face lit with excitement grinned at Theo hey don't Forget I helped you too all right hulkus leted out a hearty laugh Theo you can't die until we fight again he bellowed clapping Theo on the shoulder with surprising gentleness the commotion grew as more of Theo's comrades from training ground for gathered around HIM Tears in their eyes their voices overlapped in a mix of admiration and guilt Lord Theo one of them cried to go this far for us even if we die now another added choking on their

words we have no regrets Rey's Eyes widened as she took in the overwhelming loyalty and love these people had for Theo she looked down at him cradled In Her Arms her admiration for him deepening Theo still exhausted but visibly moved smiled faintly Gathering his remaining strength he said in a muffled voice this this is the strength I pursue his words struck a cord with everyone present and a cheer erupted from his comrades the battlefield once a place of Despair now Radiated with celebration and hope Ry smiled her expression softening she tightened her hold on Theo

her heart swelling with pride and affection you're incredible she whispered Theo shifted slightly managing a weak but determined grin ah right he said hely give me the Bell I'll get first place the scene shifted to the headquarters where a suffocating silence filled the room Ed seated at the head of a round table listened in disbelief as a soldier Delivered the news what did you say Ed asked his voice trembling the soldier hesitated his face pale finally he stammered axian axian has died in his battle with Theo Ragnar the room erupted in gasps all of the

members present at the round table could not believe their ears as no one in the room had expected this to be the outcome but Ed remained Frozen his eyes widened in horror and his skin turned Ashen impossible he muttered caught between Despair and rage Axian the UN feedable Prodigy was gone and the name Theo Ragnar now hung heavy in the air thank you for watching we've just covered the latest chapter of the series and there's more to come don't forget to like And subscribe for more awesome Recaps if you enjoyed the content feel free to

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