The hall was soon filled with the clinking of plates and the lively chatter of family and friends as everyone gathered for dinner. The tension from earlier had completely faded, replaced by laughter, teasing, and warmth.
Lucian, sitting next to Aria, smirked. "So, Hakan… I heard you got your dragons to kneel before you. Quite the sight, I assume?"
Hakan, cutting into his food, gave him a smirk. "Didn't you see it yourself? Or were you too busy staring at my coat?"
Lucian chuckled. "what the-."
The table erupted in laughter. Even Zainab, who usually held herself with composed grace, chuckled at her son's remark.
Mahira leaned toward Aria, grinning. "Honestly, I think you should visit more often. It's nice having you around."
Aria smiled softly, but a small part of her felt uneasy. She glanced at Lucian briefly before nodding. "I'd like that."
Meanwhile, Iffah was enjoying the chaos, sipping her drink with an amused look. "You're all something else."
Hakan, resting his chin on his palm, smiled softly. "That's what makes this family, doesn't it?"
As dinner concluded, Aria stood up. She clasped her hands together before bowing slightly. "Thank you, Mahira. And you too, Hakan. If it weren't for you both, I wouldn't have survived, let alone be whole again."
Hakan simply nodded. "You were strong, Aria. I only helped."
Iffah, standing beside him, placed a hand on Aria's shoulder. "You're one of us. I couldn't just sit back and do nothing."
Aria smiled warmly. "Still… I won't forget this. If you ever need anything from me, just say the word."
Lucian nodded in agreement. "We'll be heading to our hotel now. Stay safe."
With that, Aria and Lucian took their leave, disappearing into the night.
After some time, Iffah stood up, adjusting her cloak.
"I should get going," she announced. "The Silver Valkyries need me at headquarters."
Mahira frowned. "Are you sure you don't want to stay the night?"
Iffah smiled. "I'd love to, but duty calls."
Hakan, arms crossed, tilted his head. "Want me to escort you?"
Iffah smirked. "What, afraid I'll get lost?"
Hakan chuckled. "Not at all. But I'd pity anyone who gets in your way."
She laughed, shaking her head before walking up to him. "I'll see you soon."
Before leaving, she turned to Mahira. "Take care of yourself, alright?"
Mahira nodded with a soft smile. "You too, Iffah."
And with that, the leader of the Silver Valkyries left.
Zainab and Mahira led Sylvia to the guest room. The moment they were inside, the atmosphere shifted to a more casual, relaxed tone.
Sylvia, sitting on the edge of the bed, let out a deep sigh. "It's been a long day."
Mahira sat beside her. "No kidding. But… how are you feeling now?"
Sylvia looked at her hands, flexing her fingers before smiling. "Better than ever. Thanks to you."
Zainab poured some tea. "You're welcome to stay as long as you need, Sylvia."
The three of them continued chatting, their conversation shifting between battle experiences, future plans, and personal stories—a rare moment of bonding for the women of the house.
Meanwhile, in Hakan's chamber, he leaned against the wall, watching as Raihan and Soren entered.
His father crossed his arms. "So, what do you plan to do?"
Hakan's expression turned cold and focused as he nodded. "Soren, tell me everything there is to know about the Seven Stars."
Soren raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "That's an unusual request."
"Just listen," Hakan said firmly.
With a slight shrug, Soren walked over and sat down in front of him. He glanced at the badge of the White Dragons Guild pinned to his chest, a symbol of his authority.
"The Seven Star heroes are the ultimate force," he began, his voice steady. "We wield power and influence that surpasses any other hero in the world."
Hakan listened intently as Soren continued.
"We have access to classified information, privileges beyond imagination, and wealth beyond measure." His gaze locked onto Hakan's, seeing the intrigue in his eyes.
"To put it simply, a Seven Star hero holds the strength of an entire continent. And right now, there are only nine of us in existence—including you."
Hakan's gaze sharpened. "And their names?" he asked, his tone serious and unyielding.
Soren exhaled, leaning forward. "Listen carefully," he said. "These are the names of the Nine Seven-Star Heroes—each one a legend, each one a force unto themselves."
He began listing them, each name carrying the weight of unmatched power.
"Ren Tianlong—'The Celestial Sovereign.'"
"Absolute Dominion. Gravity Well. Energy Cascade. Willbind. Heaven's Command. Cosmic Surge."
"He rules not just men but the very laws of reality itself. With a word, he bends gravity, commands minds, and crushes armies under the weight of his will."
"Luxarion—'The Celestial Flash.'"
"Celestial Flash. Radiant Rebirth. Time Distortion. Stellar Fist. Solar Ascendant."
"The fastest being alive. He exists between heartbeats, bending time itself. If you see him, it's already too late."
"Dmitri Volkov—'The Dark King.'"
"Blood King's Reign. Soul Shatter. Dark Command. Veil of Shadows. Nightmare Surge. Dominion of Dread."
"A shadow in the night, a tyrant in the dark. He doesn't just kill—he erases souls, turning fear itself into a weapon."
"Zuberi Khamisi—'The Eternal Warden.'"
"Lion's Roar. Earthshatter. Warden's Grace. Eternal Vow. King's Shield."
"He is the unbreakable shield, the immovable guardian. As long as he stands, no fortress falls, and no king is dethroned."
"Kaelen Drakenhart—'The King of Land.'"
"Mountain's Embrace. Stoneform Strike. Tectonic Rage. Earthquake Fury. Ironclad Rampart."
"With a stomp, mountains shatter. With a fist, cities fall. He doesn't just rule the land—he is the land."
"Jirrah Rourke—'Elemental Apex.'"
"Thunderstrike Howl. Beast Bond. Outback Forge. Whirlwind Dance. Kangaroo Strike. Spirit of the Uluru."
"The wild itself bends to her will. Lightning, wind, earth, and beasts—she is nature's wrath incarnate."
"Colton Blackwood—'Stoneclaw.'"
"Stoneclaw Rage. Terraclash. Rockfist Barrage. Mountain's Heart. Tremor Wave."
"A monster in human form, raw and untamed. He fights with the fury of an avalanche, unstoppable and relentless."
Soren then stood, his eyes locking onto Hakan's.
"Then there is you and me " he said to hakan as he ended the list.
Hakan absorbed every name, every title, every legend that stood before him in the grand hierarchy of power.
Nine warriors who stood above the world. And now, he was one of them.
"For now, get some rest. We leave for the Towers tomorrow. You can do as much research as you want until then," Hakan's father, Raihan, said, his tone firm. After speaking, he turned and left the room, followed closely by Soren.
Now, Hakan was completely alone.
Darkness enveloped the room. Hakan lay on his bed, staring at the ceiling, his mind racing. Then suddenly, an idea struck him—something that could give him a solid lead in this mystery.
"Assemble!" he commanded, his voice firm and unwavering.
Instantly, two figures materialized before him, kneeling in obedience.
"You called, Dragon Monarch?" Veyrath spoke, his head bowed.
Hakan's gaze was sharp. "Tell me…" He hesitated for a moment before continuing. "What is this scroll about? And who wrote the contents inside?"
Veyrath remained still. "With all due respect, Monarch, I cannot answer that due to my lack of knowledge."
"Tsk…" Hakan clicked his tongue in frustration, gripping the scroll tighter. Another dead end.
But then—
"Wait…" A realization struck him. His eyes gleamed with sudden urgency.
"Answer this!" He stood up abruptly. "Where are you two from? And why did you come here?"
"Monarch, we are here because you commanded us to be," Vealthor responded.
Hakan narrowed his eyes. "What are you, an idiot?" His words were sharp, laced with irritation. "Why did you come here with Vealzaryon?" His voice turned cold, demanding an answer.
But to his surprise, silence. No response.
His patience thinned. "Are you deaf? Did you not hear what I said!?" His voice carried both anger and seriousness.
Veyrath trembled but still said nothing.
"M-Monarch…" Vealthor finally spoke, his voice shaky, fearful of provoking Hakan further.
"What?" Hakan's voice was still edged with fury.
"There are certain questions we cannot answer at this time. We are bound by restrictions."
Hakan's expression darkened. "What?"
Vealthor swallowed hard. "There are things we are unable to speak of—certain individuals. Until those individuals are… dealt with, we cannot fully express ourselves."
Hakan's fists clenched. "Who are these people? Tell me now!"
"With all due respect, Monarch, we cannot name them. We can only reveal those connected to the dragons," Vealthor explained, his fear evident.
"Then name them!" Hakan demanded.
"Vealzaryon… and Xyvarion."
Hakan's eyes sharpened. "Who is Xyvarion?"
"He is the second-in-command of all dragons. As long as he stands, the new Monarch can never have full control over the dragon race. He is Vealzaryon's rival," Vealthor revealed, still trembling.
Hakan's voice was unwavering. "Where is he?"
"Unfortunately, Monarch, I do not know."
Then, for the first time since appearing, Veyrath lifted his head slightly. "Monarch, may I have permission to speak?"
Hakan glanced at him, intrigued.
"Speak," he commanded.
"I was previously connected to him… I was once part of his men," Veyrath admitted.
Hakan's eyes widened slightly in surprise, but he quickly regained his composure. One thing was clear—these creatures were sent, and they were ruled by someone.
"And…?" Hakan pressed.
"I have the ability to sense his presence," Veyrath continued, hesitating at first before finally adding, "And… he is somewhere stationary. I don't sense any movement from his side."
Hakan's gaze sharpened. "Can you pinpoint his location?"
"Yes, my liege. He is to the north of this place—deep within the hills."
"Fine. Both of you, leave." Hakan commanded.
Without a moment's delay, both figures vanished.
Left alone, Hakan sat back on his bed, deep in thought. The mystery surrounding the asteroid that granted powers and the gates that appeared—none of it made sense. He knew something was wrong. These phenomena hadn't just occurred naturally. There was something more, something hidden beneath the surface.
But most importantly, before these creatures even arrived—before their powers became known to humans—certain techniques had already been developed to fight them off.
Who had created these techniques? And how did they know these monsters would come?
His mind raced with questions, each more troubling than the last.
The morning sun cast golden rays over the grand estate, signaling the start of a new day. The aroma of freshly baked bread and sizzling meats filled the dining hall as Hakan sat down for breakfast with his father, Raihan, and his brother, Soren.
Raihan, a man of unwavering authority and wisdom, glanced at Hakan between bites of his meal. "So," he began, his voice steady, "which tower do you plan to visit today?"
Hakan set down his cup of tea and met his father's gaze. "The one on the north side of the house."
Silence filled the room for a brief moment.
Raihan's brow furrowed slightly. "The north side?" His tone carried a hint of surprise. "Hakan, you do realize that area holds three S-rank towers? Only six- and seven-star heroes are capable of going there."
Hakan smirked slightly. "Then there's no problem, is there? Both Soren and I are seven-star heroes."
Raihan exhaled, clearly still uneasy, but he knew his son well enough to understand there was no changing his mind.
Soren, who had been listening quietly, finally spoke. "Hakan, are you planning to go alone?"
Hakan turned to him. "Why? Are you coming along?"
Soren shook his head. "I can't. The White Dragons Guild is needed here, and as its leader, I have responsibilities. This city needs us."
Hakan gave a nod of understanding. "Then it's settled. I'll handle things on my end, and you focus on keeping the city stable."
A little while later, Mahira, Zainab, and Sylvia entered the hall.
Mahira, Hakan's younger sister, rushed forward with excitement. "You're leaving already?" she pouted. "You just got back!"
Zainab, their mother, stood beside her, a sorrowful look in her eyes. "Hakan… you were presumed dead for so long. And now, after just one day, you're leaving again?"
Hakan softened his gaze. His mother's concern was understandable. He had been gone for years, and to her, his return should have been something to be cherished for longer than a single day.
He walked up to her, placing a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "I promise I'll come back. This isn't goodbye forever."
Zainab sighed but managed a small nod, knowing her son's resolve.
Sylvia, a trusted member of the Black Dragons Guild, stood silently beside them, awaiting orders.
Hakan turned to her. "We leave now."
Sylvia gave a sharp nod. "Understood."
With one last glance at his family, Hakan stepped outside, where a black armored car awaited them.
As he slid into the seat, he could still feel his mother's gaze on him.
With the hum of the engine, the vehicle pulled away, heading toward the northern tower—toward the unknown.
As the car sped through the city, the landscape blurring past them, Sylvia glanced at Hakan, her expression unreadable. The silence between them lingered for a few moments before she spoke, her voice breaking the stillness.
"Hakan," she began, her tone casual yet respectful, "where exactly are we headed? The north side of the house… but the S-rank towers are there. It's not something we've discussed before."
Hakan, his gaze fixed out the window, took a slow breath before answering. His voice was calm, yet held an edge of determination.
"We're going to the northern towers, where the three S-rank towers are. You know the ones—the ones that only six- and seven-star heroes can access." His eyes briefly flickered to Sylvia before returning to the horizon. "I intend to investigate something there. Something important."
Sylvia raised an eyebrow, intrigued but cautious. "Important? What is it, if you don't mind me asking?"
Hakan's gaze sharpened, the weight of his thoughts momentarily pulling his focus inward. "It's related to the powers—those that came from the asteroid—and the gates that appeared. I'm convinced these things didn't just appear on their own. There's a reason behind it. And I need to find out why, even if it means uncovering things that no one wants us to know."
Sylvia nodded slowly, absorbing the gravity in Hakan's tone. She knew his mind was set, and once Hakan made up his mind, there was no swaying him.
"I see," she said quietly, understanding the weight of the task ahead. "And you think these towers will give us answers?"
"I hope so," Hakan replied, his expression unreadable. "But I won't know until I've seen it for myself."
Sylvia didn't press him further. There was a quiet resolve in his voice, and she knew better than to challenge his instincts. They had been through too much together for her to question his decisions now.
"Understood," she said, her voice steady. "I'll follow your lead."
The car continued its journey toward the northern towers, and Hakan's thoughts turned inward once again. The answers were out there, hidden among the S-rank towers. And whether they were ready for them or not, he was determined to uncover the truth.
As the car finally reached the northern towers, Hakan could already see the Hero Accord's officials standing guard, their presence making it clear that the area was under strict control. They blocked the path, eyeing Hakan and Sylvia with caution.
"This area is off-limits, hero," one of the officials called out, his tone firm. "We cannot allow anyone to enter without proper authorization."
Hakan said nothing in response. Instead, he calmly reached into his jacket and pulled out his hero license—the 7-star Dragon Monarch license. The metallic card shimmered in the sunlight, its emblem instantly recognizable.
The official's eyes widened as he saw the insignia, and he quickly stepped aside, his demeanor shifting from resistance to respectful deference. "My apologies, Dragon Monarch. You may pass."
Without another word, Hakan nodded to Sylvia, and they moved forward, leaving the stunned officials behind. The area around the towers was heavily fortified, barriers set in place to ensure no dangerous beasts could escape into the human population.
As Hakan and Sylvia approached the towering structure, a group of officials, accompanied by two 6-star heroes, arrived to meet them. The two heroes stood tall, their presence commanding, and their eyes narrowed with professional scrutiny.
"Dragon Monarch," one of the heroes said, his voice respectful but stern. "We're here to escort you. It's our duty to ensure your safety while you are in this restricted area."
Hakan's gaze flickered briefly to the heroes. "I appreciate it," he said coolly, "but I don't need an escort."
The first hero, a tall man with a scar running down his cheek, spoke again. "With all due respect, Dragon Monarch, this area is dangerous. We can't afford to take any chances. My name is Shahbaz Malik, and this is my partner, Imran Qureshi." The second hero, a broad-shouldered man with a short beard, gave a curt nod.
Hakan paused for a moment, considering their words. He didn't like the idea of being escorted, but he understood the importance of caution in such a high-risk area.
"Fine," Hakan said finally, his voice calm but resolute. "Lead the way."
Sylvia remained by his side, her gaze sweeping the area, as the two heroes led them toward the heart of the towers. The air seemed to hum with power, and Hakan could feel the weight of whatever secret lay within the towering structure.
As Hakan and Sylvia were escorted toward the towers, the two 6-star heroes, Shahbaz Malik and Imran Qureshi, kept a respectful but vigilant distance, their eyes scanning the surroundings for any potential threats.
Shahbaz, walking a step ahead, turned to Hakan with a serious expression. "Dragon Monarch," he began, his voice measured, "if you don't mind me asking, what exactly brings you here today? This is a restricted area for a reason, and only those with valid reasons can enter."
Hakan's eyes remained fixed ahead as he walked, his hands clasped behind his back. He considered Shahbaz's question for a moment before responding.
"It's a personal matter," Hakan said simply. His tone was steady, but there was a certain finality to it, as though he wasn't willing to discuss it further.
Shahbaz's brow furrowed, clearly intrigued but choosing not to press. He glanced at Imran, who remained silent but observant, before turning back to Hakan.
"A personal matter?" Shahbaz echoed, though it was clear he didn't quite buy the answer. "I see. Well, as long as you're aware of the risks, Dragon Monarch."
Hakan's gaze hardened slightly, a silent warning not to question him further. "I am."
Sylvia, walking beside him, gave a slight nod, signaling that she too was fully aware of the weight of the situation. She trusted Hakan's judgment.
Imran, still quiet, spoke up for the first time. "We'll keep you safe, Dragon Monarch, as our duty demands. But I hope you understand, this place is dangerous. We'll be on alert for anything that might pose a threat."
Hakan gave a small, almost imperceptible nod, signaling that he had heard and acknowledged their concerns. "Understood. I can handle myself."
With that, they arrived at the entrance of the first S-rank tower. The towering structure loomed ahead, its immense size and the mystery surrounding it causing a quiet sense of awe to stir in the air.
Shahbaz stepped forward, gesturing toward the entrance. "After you, Dragon Monarch."
Hakan didn't hesitate. Without another word, he took the first step inside, his resolve firm as ever. The answers he sought were within, and nothing would stop him from finding them.
As Hakan, Sylvia, Shahbaz, and Imran stepped into the towering structure, the weight of the air inside was palpable. The immense silence hung over them, broken only by the sound of their footsteps echoing off the stone walls. The first S-rank tower stretched high above them, its interior vast and intimidating.
Hakan's gaze swept across the darkened expanse, his mind focused on the task at hand. Without a word, he raised his hand and issued a command, his voice low but commanding.
"Veyrath, Vealthor," Hakan's tone cut through the stillness like a blade, "appear before me."
In an instant, both Veyrath and Vealthor materialized before Hakan, their powerful dragonic forms shimmering into existence. The sudden appearance of the two beings startled Shahbaz and Imran, their eyes widening in shock. They had heard of the Black Dragons' Guild, but to see such towering creatures manifest out of thin air was beyond anything they had expected. The power they radiated was unmistakable.
Both Veyrath and Vealthor knelt before Hakan immediately, their heads lowered in a gesture of unwavering loyalty. The sheer presence of these beings made the air hum with energy. Shahbaz and Imran stood frozen, their surprise evident. They were 6-star heroes, but even they knew that these two were no mere allies—these were dragons, beings of legendary power who obeyed Hakan without question.
Hakan nodded once at the sight, a quiet approval in his eyes. He was used to such displays, but it was clear that his human companions were not.
"Vealthor," Hakan said, his voice calm but firm, "clear the area. Kill any monsters you encounter and return swiftly. We need the path safe."
Vealthor, still kneeling, rose with fluid grace, his dragonic features shifting and shrinking until only his humanoid form remained. His powerful wings and tail remained visible, a constant reminder of his true form. His face, once ferocious, now resembled a human's, though the ancient power within him was unmistakable. He nodded solemnly, his eyes glowing with fiery resolve.
"Understood, Monarch," Vealthor said in his deep, gravelly voice before rushing deeper into the tower, his form becoming a blur as he moved with lightning speed.
Turning to Veyrath, Hakan spoke again. "Veyrath, locate Xyvarion. Find him now."
Veyrath, who had remained kneeling the entire time, slowly stood, his dragonic form still majestic and intimidating. His eyes glowed as he concentrated, his mind reaching out through the vast energy currents of the tower. The tension in the air thickened as his focus deepened.
Moments passed in tense silence before Veyrath spoke, his voice steady but laced with urgency. "I've found him," Veyrath reported. "Xyvarion is deeper within the tower. His presence is faint, as if he's trying to hide himself from us."
Hakan nodded, his expression grim but resolute. "We'll find him. Stay sharp."
Sylvia, standing quietly beside him, nodded in agreement. "We'll be ready. If anything goes wrong, we'll handle it."
Shahbaz and Imran, still standing in awe, exchanged glances. They were heroes, but witnessing the sheer power of these dragons in Hakan's service was a humbling experience. With a final nod to Hakan, they kept their position, prepared to follow wherever the mission led.
As the group ventured deeper into the tower, the air seemed to thicken, an oppressive energy building around them. The sound of their footsteps was the only thing breaking the silence, but the sense of something greater, something hidden, was all around them.
"Come at me, you pathetic beings! Hahaha!" A deep, chilling voice echoed from deep within the tower, the sound reverberating through the stone walls. The voice was faint, almost inaudible to anyone else, but Hakan could hear it clearly. His eyes narrowed, his focus sharpening as he processed the ominous laughter that seemed to come from the very ground beneath them.
Vealthor appeared in front of the group, his humanoid form still radiating power despite the obvious injuries. His body was battered, blood staining his dragonic scales, but his resolve remained unbroken. Every monster in the tower had been wiped out by his hand, leaving only the faint smell of blood in the air.
Hakan stepped forward and nodded in approval. "Well done, Vealthor. You've cleared the way," he said, his voice steady.
Vealthor, despite the exhaustion written on his face, gave a deep bow. "It was my duty, Monarch," he replied, voice heavy but unwavering.
Hakan then nodded, acknowledging Vealthor's loyalty. "You've done well. Return now. Your injuries are minor—rest and heal. Dragons can recover quickly."
With that, Vealthor bowed again and disappeared in a flash of movement, retreating to heal himself in solitude. His wounds, though visible, were not enough to hinder his return to his full power.
Turning to the others, Hakan motioned forward, his eyes fixed on the distant center of the tower's first hall. The air was thick with tension as he moved with purpose.
"We're close," Hakan muttered under his breath, his focus sharp.
As they reached the heart of the tower, a sudden surge of energy seemed to pulse from the very core of the structure. The massive hall before them seemed to shudder in response, as though the space itself was alive and warning them of what lay ahead.
Hakan paused, his gaze unwavering. With a single thought, he focused his energy, channeling his martial expertise to a pinpoint of focus within his body. He raised his hand, drawing upon the depths of his internal power, and performed the technique he knew so well.
Void Crusher.
The area around Hakan's fists rippled with spatial distortions, warping and bending as if the very air around him was unable to contain the sheer force of his movement. With a sharp motion, his fist struck the air, and reality seemed to shatter for a moment. A violent burst of kinetic energy erupted from his hand, and the center of the tower collapsed in on itself, breaking the fabric of space and creating a massive hole. The ground beneath them groaned and cracked, revealing a dark, foreboding path leading down into the unknown depths of the tower's underground.
But as the hole opened up, a wave of dangerous, mysterious energy surged from below, radiating a threatening, almost malevolent aura. It felt as if the very air was charged with death, a force so intense that it seemed to threaten to strike them down instantly. The others paused, their bodies instinctively reacting to the overwhelming danger.
Hakan, however, did not flinch. His expression remained calm, his eyes narrowing with determination. This was not the first time he had faced such a force, and it would not be the last. After all, this was the same man who had defeated Vealzaryon, the previous Dragon Monarch. He wasn't about to let something like this stand in his way.
"Vealthor! Veyrath!" Hakan shouted, his voice firm and commanding. Without waiting for a reply, he leaped into the hole, his body disappearing into the darkness below.
Sylvia, Shahbaz, and Imran rushed forward, attempting to stop him. " Dragon Monarch, no!" Sylvia called out, panic rising in her voice. "It's too dangerous! You can't—!"
But Hakan, already descending, turned his head back just slightly. His voice carried back up to them, calm yet resolute.
"Stay here. Wait for me. This fight is mine alone."
He then activated Skyward Fist, his body shifting into a precise stance as he manipulated the flow of air around him. Internal energy surged through him, and the air around his body shimmered. His feet left the ground, the subtle ripples of air creating a cushion beneath him as he floated downward into the abyss.
His body descended with perfect control, his posture reflecting the mastery he had over his own Body. The force of his movements created gentle air currents that swirled around him, guiding his descent as if the air itself were responding to his will.
Sylvia and the heroes watched as Hakan disappeared into the darkness below. His words echoed in their minds, and though they were filled with concern, they knew this was Hakan's decision, his fight. For now, they could only wait
Hakan and his dragon followers moved cautiously through the pitch-black abyss, the air thick with the heavy scent of ancient stone and decay. The silence was almost suffocating, broken only by the soft echo of their footsteps. Suddenly, a strange sense of unease washed over Hakan, his senses heightening as if something sinister was lurking in the shadows.
He stopped dead in his tracks, his sharp eyes scanning the area. His mind raced as he realized the presence ahead of them.
"Light the torches!" Hakan ordered, his voice firm and unwavering. His followers obeyed without hesitation, their dragon-like abilities flaring to life. Flames flickered to life as they set torches ablaze, illuminating the vast, dark space before them.
And then, they saw it.
A massive black-scaled dragon, its eyes burning with dark power, stood motionless in front of them. The air itself seemed to warp around the beast, a chilling aura of pure malevolence radiating from its body. The dragon's eyes locked onto Hakan, narrowing as it observed him closely.
"You pathetic human," the dragon growled, its voice like a low rumble of thunder. "You don't have any powers, and yet you managed to defeat him!"
The dragon's words hung in the air, filled with disdain. A wave of energy surged through the beast as it reared back, its chest expanding. With an earth-shattering roar, the dragon unleashed a sound so powerful that it caused the very walls of the tower to tremble, cracks running through the stone.
The force of the roar was like a wave, threatening to collapse everything in its path. The tower shuddered violently, dust and debris falling from the ceiling. Hakan stood his ground, not flinching, but his followers could see the effort it took to maintain his composure against such overwhelming force.
Sylvia and the other heroes, sensing the danger escalating, immediately began retreating. "We need to leave, now!" Sylvia shouted, her voice filled with urgency. The group hurriedly backed away, heading for the exit.
But as Sylvia ran, she couldn't shake the image of the dragon's roar from her mind. The sound reminded her of something far more terrifying—Vealzaryon. The very name sent a shiver down her spine.
Vealzaryon, the Dragon King, the monster who had nearly destroyed everything, the one whose power had been legendary. Sylvia remembered the battle—the overwhelming might, the terrifying fury. Fear surged in her chest, but then, her thoughts shifted to Hakan. Hakan was down there. The same man who had defeated Vealzaryon. Hakan, who had defied all odds.
She steeled herself. "No... Hakan can handle this," she muttered to herself, but the doubt was still there, lingering.
Meanwhile, above ground, the Hero Accord had been contacted in an emergency. The tension in the air was palpable as the officials scrambled to understand the situation. The dire message reached Soren and Iffah, the leaders of the White Dragons Guild and The Silver Valkyries, respectively.
"Soren, Iffah—Hakan has entered the tower!" one of the Accord's officials reported. "We need immediate support!"
The words struck both Soren and Iffa like a blow to the chest. The fear of losing Hakan again—the same fear that had gripped them when they thought he was dead—returned with a vengeance. They couldn't afford to lose him. Not again.
Iffa, her heart pounding, was already rushing out of her guild headquarters. "Prepare the team!" she barked at her second-in-command, Eman Shah. "We're heading there now!"
Soren, on the other side of the city, was already calling for his own forces. "Arham Khalid, assemble the team. We leave now!" His voice was grim, the urgency clear. The White Dragons Guild had a long reach, but the stakes had never been higher.
Both leaders, alongside their second-in-commands, raced toward the tower, their hearts heavy with dread. They knew what this meant. If Hakan fell, so did everything they fought for.
"You're pretty strong, I can see that," Hakan said with a smirk, his eyes locked onto Xyvarion.
"You insolent creature! You dare speak to me?!" Xyvarion roared, his voice filled with fury. A being who had always looked down on humans was now being confronted by one.
Enraged, Xyvarion began to charge a devastating energy blast. "Perish, you insig—"
Before he could finish, Hakan had already moved. In an instant, he appeared at Xyvarion's right, just beside his monstrous draconic face.
"You leave yourself wide open!" Hakan growled.
With a thunderous strike, he unleashed Heaven's Breaker, his fist crashing into Xyvarion's head with such force that the charged blast was thrown off course, exploding wildly in the distance. The impact sent Xyvarion hurtling backward, slamming into the dark, ancient structures fused with the earth. The shockwave from the attack worsened the already crumbling ruins, deepening the destruction caused by Xyvarion's earlier roar.
From the rubble, a low chuckle echoed.
"Heh… I can see now how he lost to you," Xyvarion muttered as he rose to his feet, shaking off the dust. His glowing eyes narrowed.
"Guess there's no point in dragging this out any longer."
A dark, ominous energy surged around his body, swallowing him whole. In the blink of an eye, he vanished.
"Now that I'm in this form… I am undetectable," his voice whispered through the darkness.
BOOM!
A powerful strike landed against Hakan's gut, the sheer force sending him flying backward, crashing through layers of stone and debris.
The moment Xyvarion's clawed fist struck Hakan's gut, the impact sent him flying backward like a cannonball. A deep, menacing laughter echoed in the darkness.
"You struggle against what you cannot see, human!" Xyvarion's voice was layered with malice, his presence flickering in and out of reality.
Hakan twisted mid-air, using Skyward Fist to stabilize himself. He landed lightly, rolling to absorb the impact. His eyes scanned the pitch-black surroundings, but Xyvarion had vanished—his form dissolving into the shadows.
Then—
BOOM!
A sudden force slammed into Hakan's side, sending him skidding across the stone floor. Before he could react, another blow struck his ribs, then his shoulder. Xyvarion's shadowed form moved like a ghost, unseen and untouchable.
Hakan exhaled sharply. He's fast. Not just fast—he's beyond tangible. Every strike phased through him as if he weren't even there, while his attacks connected with devastating force.
But Hakan had fought stronger enemies.
Analyzing the Shadow Form
Hakan rolled to his feet, adjusting his stance. He slowed his breathing. Every muscle in his body relaxed as he sharpened his focus.
Xyvarion was moving in and out of the material world—an untouchable, spectral force. But there was a pattern.
A faint shift in the air—left.
A change in pressure—behind.
A flicker in the darkness—above.
Hakan's lips curled into a smirk.
There you are.
Xyvarion appeared behind him, launching another attack. This time, instead of dodging, Hakan moved straight into it—his fist shimmering with precise energy.
Phase Sever.
The moment Xyvarion's form flickered into existence for the strike, Hakan's fist connected. A ripple of energy tore through the air, disrupting the dragon's spectral body.
"WHA—?!?!" Xyvarion's roar of disbelief was cut short. For the first time, he felt pain.
Hakan twisted his stance and followed up immediately. Dragon's Fang.
A piercing, lightning-fast strike shot forward, slamming into Xyvarion's chest. The sheer force sent him flying backward, smashing through layers of stone.
"You…!" Xyvarion growled, his dark form flickering violently. "You miserable—!"
Sonic Boom.
A deafening shockwave erupted from Hakan's palm, blasting Xyvarion even further back. The dragon barely managed to stabilize himself before crashing into the underground ruins.
Xyvarion staggered. His dark form, once untouchable, now flickered unpredictably. Hakan had broken his perfect phasing ability.
"How… how are you able to strike me?" Xyvarion snarled, his glowing eyes narrowing.
Hakan cracked his knuckles. "You made one mistake."
Xyvarion's pupils shrank.
"You thought being untouchable meant being invincible," Hakan continued. "But the moment you phase back to attack—that's when you're vulnerable."
Xyvarion roared, rage twisting his monstrous face. "YOU INSOLENT WORM! I'LL ERASE YOU FROM EXISTENCE!"
His body surged with dark energy, the shadows twisting violently around him. His presence expanded, shaking the very ground.
"Enough talking," Hakan muttered. He lowered his stance. Now it's time to end this.
Xyvarion vanished into the shadows.
But now, Hakan could see it.
His body moved on instinct. He flickered—Phantom Step—leaving afterimages as he dodged the incoming assault. Xyvarion struck from every angle, but Hakan was already one step ahead.
A blur of movement—Hakan reappeared above Xyvarion. Sky Rend.
A devastating downward kick crashed into Xyvarion's skull, sending him hurtling to the ground. Before he could react—
Eclipse Palm.
Hakan intercepted Xyvarion's desperate counterattack, absorbing its force and returning it with amplified strength. Xyvarion's body convulsed from the sheer impact.
"You… DAMNED… HUMAN!!"
Void Crusher.
Hakan's final strike warped the very space around them. Reality twisted, air bent, and a delayed shockwave shattered the underground chamber.
BOOM!
Xyvarion's massive body collapsed, his form destabilizing, dark energy cracking apart.
Coughing, he looked up at Hakan with wide, disbelieving eyes.
"You… are no ordinary human," Xyvarion whispered.
Hakan exhaled, his body covered in sweat, but his stance never wavered.
"I never said I was."
A deep, guttural chuckle echoed through the collapsing ruins.
Xyvarion—who had moments ago been crumbling into darkness—laughed.
At first, it was a quiet, sinister sound, but then it grew—a booming, otherworldly laughter that shook the very air.
Hakan's eyes narrowed. His body was sore, his knuckles throbbed from the impact of his last strike, yet he remained unshaken.
"What's so funny?" he asked, rolling his shoulders.
Xyvarion's disintegrating form suddenly halted. The shadows that once flickered and cracked around his body began to coalesce, spiraling inward like a black hole devouring light itself.
"You misunderstand, human," Xyvarion said, his voice carrying a newfound coldness.
"The fight… is far from over."
Then, it happened.
The void collapsed inward, and where a formless shadow once loomed, something emerged.
A figure stepped forward, his presence alone suffocating the space around him.
He towered over Hakan, no longer an intangible wraith but something far worse. His humanoid frame radiated sheer malice, the black, exoskeletal armor wrapping around his form like a living entity. Each jagged ridge and layered plate of his body seemed to pulsate, shifting subtly as if it breathed with him.
His long, abyssal horns curved back in a regal yet predatory fashion, framing his face—if it could even be called that. There were no features, no mouth, no nose—only eyes.
Dark, void-like eyes that swallowed all light.
His wild, flowing hair writhed like tendrils of ink in water, moving unnaturally with every breath. A long, segmented tail swayed behind him, its razor-like edges carving faint trails in the stone.
And the air—the very space around him—bent.
Xyvarion no longer needed to announce his power. His mere presence screamed it.
Hakan felt it too.
The weight. The silence.
A presence so overwhelming that lesser men would have dropped to their knees in sheer dread.
For a moment, there was only stillness.
Then—
He laughed.
A low, amused chuckle rumbled from Hakan's throat as he cracked his neck.
"Now that's more like it," he said.
Xyvarion's head tilted slightly, as if surprised.
"Even now, you smile?" the abyssal dragon inquired, his tone unreadable.
Hakan rolled his shoulders, clenching and unclenching his fists. His muscles coiled like a predator about to strike.
"Of course," he said, stepping forward. "I was getting bored."
A pause.
Then—they moved.
The moment their bodies blurred, the entire chamber exploded.
Hakan and Xyvarion collided, their blows shaking the underground structure to its foundations.
BOOM!
Hakan's Heaven's Breaker struck first—his fist surging forward with overwhelming destruction, aiming straight for Xyvarion's chest.
But Xyvarion blocked it.
A single, clawed hand stopped the attack, the sheer force behind it causing cracks to spread beneath his feet.
Hakan's eyes gleamed. He was stronger now.
SWOOSH!
Xyvarion retaliated, his claws slicing through the air like black lightning. Hakan twisted, using Phantom Step to weave between the deadly slashes, his afterimages fading in and out of view.
But Xyvarion wasn't just fast—he was relentless.
A shadowy tail lashed forward, aiming to crush Hakan's ribs. He barely had time to intercept it—Eclipse Palm met the strike, absorbing the force and returning it in full.
CRACK!
Xyvarion was blasted backward—but he used it.
Mid-air, he twisted his body, his abyssal armor shifting, and vanished.
Hakan's eyes sharpened.
A flicker.
A breath.
Behind.
BOOM!
Xyvarion's fist slammed into Hakan's back, sending him rocketing forward into a crumbling stone pillar.
SMASH!
Debris rained down as dust filled the chamber. For a moment, nothing moved.
Then—
Wind howled.
The dust parted.
And Hakan stepped out, rolling his shoulders, his expression unchanged.
"Not bad," he said, smirking. "You hit harder than before."
Xyvarion narrowed his void-like eyes.
"You should not be standing," he said, a hint of genuine intrigue in his tone.
Hakan exhaled. Now it was time to get serious.
The battle intensified, each strike causing shockwaves that tore through the underground structure.
Hakan unleashed Iron Tempest, turning himself into a rotating storm of unstoppable momentum. Xyvarion countered with his own monstrous speed, his claws flashing like black lightning.
The air screamed as Dragon's Fang met Xyvarion's abyssal armor, sending echoes of force through the chamber.
They weren't just fighting.
They were erasing everything around them.
Each attack shattered the ground, the walls, even the air itself.
But in the chaos—Hakan studied him.
He was adapting.
Xyvarion lunged forward, his claws coated in darkness.
A fatal strike.
But Hakan saw it.
He stepped forward.
A single, calculated move.
Phase Sever.
His palm met Xyvarion's chest.
And for the first time—Xyvarion froze.
His void-like eyes widened.
"You—"
Hakan twisted his hips, rotating into his next move.
Void Crusher.
BOOM!
A space-warping strike detonated against Xyvarion's core, sending him hurtling through the ruins.
Hakan didn't stop.
He surged forward, airborne—Sky Rend activating as he closed the distance.
The fight wasn't over.
Not yet.
And Hakan wasn't done breaking him.
The ground beneath them trembled, the foundations of the ancient tower collapsing from the sheer force of their battle. Cracks ran like veins through the walls, splitting stone and sending debris plummeting into the abyss below.
Xyvarion lunged, his abyssal claws gleaming in the dim light as he aimed to tear Hakan apart. But Hakan had already moved.
Phantom Step.
A blur. A flicker. Then—
BOOM!
Hakan reappeared above Xyvarion, twisting his body mid-air.
Sky Rend!
A devastating downward kick tore through the air, smashing into Xyvarion's shoulder and sending the abyssal dragon crashing through yet another collapsing wall.
The ground beneath them finally gave way.
The entire underground chamber caved in.
With lightning-fast precision, Hakan adjusted his stance in midair. The collapsing tower was falling in on itself, dragging them both into darkness. But Hakan had no intention of being buried here.
His fist clenched.
Skyward Fist!
A single punch toward the air shifted the wind itself, creating a powerful updraft beneath him. Using the currents, Hakan launched himself skyward like a bullet, escaping the crumbling underground at blinding speed.
A moment later—Xyvarion followed.
The abyssal dragon's body dissolved into streaks of pure shadow, reforming just behind Hakan. His wings of living darkness spread wide, propelling him through the debris.
The tower—once a colossal structure—was now a dying monument, its remains crumbling as both warriors erupted into the open sky.
As they broke through the shattered remains of the tower, the battlefield below came into view.
Standing amidst the destruction were Sylvia, Shahbaz Malik, and Imran Qureshi. Their gazes were fixed upwards, their faces marked with tension.
But they weren't alone.
From the shadows of the battlefield, two massive dragons emerged—their scales glinting even beneath the overcast sky.
Veyrath and Vealthor.
They had remained hidden, unwilling to interfere in a clash of this magnitude. But now, as their Monarch and the abyssal dragon tore through the sky, they stepped forward, standing by the humans who had also placed their trust in Hakan.
Sylvia gripped her weapon tightly, her heart pounding. She had seen Hakan battle titans before, but this—this was different.
"This isn't just a fight," Shahbaz muttered, his eyes narrowing. "This is a war between two apex predators."
Imran nodded. "And the City is watching."
Hakan and Xyvarion hovered in the air, the ruins of the tower crumbling beneath them. The storm clouds churned above, darkening the sky as if the heavens themselves recognized the scale of this confrontation.
Xyvarion's abyssal form shifted, his tail flicking through the air as he let out a low, bone-chilling laugh.
"You keep surprising me, human," he said, his abyssal eyes narrowing. "But now that we are free from that crumbling prison, let's see how long you can survive at full power."
Hakan exhaled, rolling his shoulders. His muscles tensed, his stance sharpening.
Then, he grinned.
"You're not the only one who gets stronger when the battlefield expands."
With a single step forward, he vanished—
And the real battle began
As Hakan and Xyvarion clashed in the sky above the collapsing tower, the city below bore witness to their earth-shaking battle. Shockwaves rippled through the clouds with each exchange of blows, splitting the air apart as their silhouettes darted across the sky like two celestial titans waging war.
Xyvarion's movements were now far more refined, his humanoid form granting him greater speed and control. With each strike, his abyssal claws tore through space itself, sending dark slashes that distorted the skyline. Hakan, however, was adapting—his Phantom Step allowing him to weave between the devastating attacks, leaving afterimages that made it impossible to predict his next move.
Then, with a sudden burst of force, Hakan shot upward, using Skyward Fist to propel himself high above the battlefield. Xyvarion pursued, his speed matching Hakan's as he rocketed after him.
A gust of wind signaled new arrivals. Iffah and Soren had finally reached the area, coming from opposite directions, their second-in-commands, Eman Shah and Arham Khalid, arriving with them. Soren, watching the battle with a smirk, folded his arms.
"Let's leave it to him, shall we?" he said, fully confident in his brother's ability.
Iffah, however, narrowed her eyes at the sight of Xyvarion. "That thing… shouldn't exist," she muttered. Remembering the war they had against Vealzayon.
Above, the battle escalated further. Hakan twisted in mid-air, using Iron Tempest to launch a flurry of rotational strikes. His kicks and punches generated powerful shockwaves, forcing Xyvarion to momentarily retreat. But the abyssal dragon was undeterred.
"You adapt fast," Xyvarion sneered. "But it won't save you."
In an instant, he vanished into the darkness, his form merging with the very air itself. Hakan's eyes sharpened. He had already encountered this ability before.
Intangible again, huh?
But he had already found his answer. Without hesitation, he activated Phase Sever. His next strike did not aim at where Xyvarion had been—but rather, where he was. The air around his fist shimmered unnaturally as his knuckles crashed into Xyvarion's unseen form.
A deep, guttural growl echoed as the dragon was forcefully materialized mid-air, his form jerking from the unexpected impact.
The entire city watched in stunned silence. The powerless man… was fighting a Supreme dragon.
The sky trembled as Hakan and Xyvarion exchanged blows at speeds that even the strongest heroes below struggled to follow. The air cracked with each impact, and shockwaves thundered across the city, rattling windows and sending debris cascading from the already crumbling tower.
Xyvarion snarled, his abyssal form moving like liquid darkness. He lashed out with a claw strike, a jagged arc of shadow energy cutting through the air. Hakan twisted mid-air, dodging by the slimmest margin, but Xyvarion was relentless. He phased in and out of reality, his form disappearing into the darkness before reemerging with a savage downward kick.
Hakan barely had time to react—he raised his forearm, absorbing the impact, but the sheer force of the attack sent him crashing downward. He caught himself mid-fall, using Skyward Fist to stabilize his movement. Xyvarion was already upon him again, his speed increasing with every second.
"You struggle in vain, human!" Xyvarion roared, his voice reverberating across the battlefield. He swung his fist, cloaked in abyssal energy, aiming straight for Hakan's head.
But this time, Hakan was ready.
With a blur of movement, he vanished—Phantom Step.
Xyvarion's strike met only air. His abyssal eyes widened in surprise, but before he could react, Hakan reappeared behind him, twisting his body as he launched a devastating counterstrike.
Void Crusher.
The space around Hakan's fist warped violently as he drove his knuckles into Xyvarion's ribs. The impact sent a ripple through the very air itself, distorting reality as if space had momentarily collapsed inward. Xyvarion let out a guttural snarl, his body jerking from the force, but he recovered quickly, launching another flurry of attacks.
The battle raged on—Hakan using Iron Tempest to unleash a relentless storm of rotational strikes, while Xyvarion retaliated with abyssal slashes that tore through the sky. Their movements were like a deadly dance, one where a single mistake meant death.
Then, Hakan saw his opening.
He ducked under a wild swing and surged forward, his eyes narrowing with lethal intent. He focused everything—his training, his precision, his overwhelming power—into one final move.
Death's Knock.
A strike that bypasses flesh and bone, cutting straight to the essence of life itself. The moment his fist connected, a shockwave rippled through Xyvarion's body—not outward, but inward, targeting the very core of his being. Muscles seized, nerves misfired, and for a fleeting instant, it was as if time itself had frozen.
Xyvarion's entire body convulsed. His abyssal energy fluctuated violently, his form flickering as though struggling to maintain cohesion. Then—
BOOM.
The sheer force of the strike sent Xyvarion hurtling toward the ground like a meteor. The impact was cataclysmic. The earth below shattered as a massive crater formed upon his crash landing, dust and debris erupting into the sky. The city trembled as silence briefly followed the devastation.
Hakan hovered above, exhaling deeply as he watched the dust settle. He knew Xyvarion wasn't dead. He had deliberately held back from dealing a fatal blow.
Descending slowly, he landed at the edge of the crater, where Xyvarion lay—his abyssal form flickering, struggling to rise.
"You're strong," Hakan admitted, his voice steady yet firm, his gaze unwavering. "But this fight is over."
Xyvarion coughed, his abyssal eyes narrowing as he glared at Hakan. His body ached, his pride burned, but his will refused to break. "You… dare to claim victory over me?" His voice, usually laced with overwhelming dominance, wavered ever so slightly.
Hakan stepped forward, his presence undeniable. "I defeated Vealzaryon. I defeated you. There is only one Dragon Monarch now." His words were not arrogant—just truth. He extended a hand. "Swear loyalty to me, or stay down."
Xyvarion clenched his fists, his claws digging into his palms. The words stung more than the battle wounds. His entire existence had been built upon dominance, upon strength. To submit to a human… It was unthinkable.
Yet… something was different about this man.
He looked into Hakan's eyes and saw it—something unshakable, something beyond mere strength. Indestructible. Absolute.
Memories surged forth unbidden—of Vealzaryon, the once-unstoppable force, now nothing more than a fallen monarch. When Vealzaryon was defeated, the dragons had not revolted. They had accepted it. They had accepted Hakan.
Veyrath and Vealthor stepped forward, their towering forms imposing even in their humanoid states. They stood beside Xyvarion, gazing at him with knowing expressions.
"You already know the truth, Xyvarion," Veyrath said. "The moment Vealzaryon fell, all dragons accepted him. Whether they spoke it or not, they knew."
Vealthor nodded. "You were the last one who remained in denial. Now, even you can see it."
Xyvarion's heart pounded. His pride screamed at him to reject this—to rise, to keep fighting, to prove his worth. But his instincts whispered something else.
Hakan… was beyond any dragon.
Summoning his power one last time, Xyvarion reached into the minds of Veyrath and Vealthor, glimpsing their memories—seeing what they saw.
He saw Hakan's strength.
Not just in battle.
But in will.
In leadership.
In kindness.
In defiance of fate itself.
The weight of it all pressed down upon him, suffocating yet liberating. His body, once filled with defiance, now felt light. Free.
Slowly, he rose to his feet. He was tall—taller than Hakan—but at this moment, height meant nothing. Strength meant nothing.
Only the truth remained.
Xyvarion took a deep breath, his abyssal eyes never leaving Hakan's. Then, with deliberate motion, he dropped to one knee.
He knelt.
Not as a broken warrior.
Not as a defeated dragon.
But as one who had finally seen the inevitable.
His voice, steady and solemn, filled the silent forest.
"I swear my loyalty… to the Dragon Monarch."