The kingdom was still ablaze. Smoke twisted into the sky like dark serpents, and the screams of both humans and monsters filled the air.
At the city's center, the Dragon Lord landed. Its scales shimmered like black fire, eyes burning with intelligence and malice. The ground cracked beneath its weight.
Cid trembled beside Kaelthos.
Kael… that thing… it's huge.
Kaelthos's expression remained calm. His shadow stretched across the city like a veil of night.
Good he said simply.
Size is meaningless.
One of Kaelthos's classmates, Rina, had always possessed a unique ability:
She could see the abilities of anyone around her.
As she approached Kaelthos, her eyes glowed faintly. She focused, trying to read his aura, to sense his system.
What… what the" Rina whispered, her eyes widening.
Her mouth went dry.
Kaelthos… your… ability… it.
Before she could finish, her body shook violently, and she collapsed to her knees, vomiting uncontrollably. Her ability was trying to interpret an impossible existence, something beyond all systems, beyond comprehension.
Kaelthos looked at her coldly.
You cannot perceive me. Stop wasting your senses.
Rina could only stammer, still shaken.
I… I can't… it's too… powerful…"
Kaelthos turned away. There were more pressing matters than fragile minds.
The Dragon Lord roared, its flames scorching the city square. Soldiers cowered, and monsters rallied to its side.
Kaelthos stepped forward. Shadows gathered, twisting around him like living armor.
Cid swallowed hard.
Kael… what do I do.
Kaelthos extended a hand toward the massive creature.
Do what I taught you Adapt Survive Kill.
With a flash, Cid body reacted instinctively. His Fragile Adaptation skill activated. Bones that should have broken healed instantly. His muscles surged with strength. His reflexes became inhuman.
The Dragon Lord lunged at them. Its claws could crush stone, its breath could melt metal.
Cid dodged effortlessly, but Kaelthos didn't move. He raised a finger, and time seemed to shiver around him.
One thought.
One command.
The Dragon Lord froze mid attack. Its roar faltered. Then, with a flicker of shadow, its massive body erased from existence.
Ash and scales scattered in the wind. The ground shook, but Kaelthos remained untouched.
Cid stared, breathless.
W What… what just happened.
Kaelthos glanced at him, expressionless.
I did not fight it. I unmade it. Survival is optional for those who defy me.