Chapter 17: Awakening of the Blade Core

Kael Ardyn returned from the cursed forest, his body weary but his spirit alight with a new energy. The deal with death had left a lingering power within him, a force that pulsed through his veins with every heartbeat. But he sensed that this was only the beginning—there was more to awaken, more to master.

Sitting in a secluded glade, Kael focused on the mark on his left hand. The pulsing had grown stronger since his encounter with the skeletal figure. Closing his eyes, he felt the energy respond to his intent, swirling like liquid shadow beneath his skin.

“This… this is different,” he whispered. “It’s not just power… it’s connected to my sword.”

Kael raised his blade, the metal glinting in the fading sunlight. Concentrating, he let his consciousness flow through the weapon, seeking the link between his soul and the steel. The air seemed to thrum with anticipation.

Suddenly, the sword glowed with a dark, core-like energy. A surge of force pulsed from it, enveloping Kael in warmth and strength. His eyes snapped open as the Blade Core awakened, resonating with his mark. Void energy shimmered along the edge of the blade, sharp, alive, and responsive to his will.

Kael felt a rush of exhilaration. Movements that had once felt sluggish now flowed effortlessly. Each swing, each parry, carried the weight of unleashed power. He tested the Blade Core, channeling Void Slash through the weapon, watching as it cut through the surrounding trees with ease.

“This… this is incredible,” Kael murmured, awe mingling with determination. “With this, I can survive any trial. I will master it… and no one will stand in my way.”

He practiced relentlessly, synchronizing his movements with the Blade Core, learning its limits, and pushing past them. The sun dipped below the horizon, yet Kael did not stop. Every swing, every step, every breath was a promise—to himself, to the challenges ahead, and to the hunter he was destined to become.

As night fell and the forest shadows deepened, Kael sheathed his sword, now humming faintly with dormant energy. The Blade Core was awakened, a testament to his determination and growth.

Kael Ardyn stood tall, the glade silent around him, and whispered to the stars above, “I will become stronger. I will rise beyond every limit. The path of the hunter continues… and I will not falter.”