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Scene 1: A Sudden Threat
Three days after the secret meeting, Aeron was meditating on a cliffside training zone—surrounded by wild mana storms and ancient stones glowing with power. Ryden had gone to handle something urgent, leaving Aeron alone for a while.
Suddenly, shadows moved across the sky. A figure cloaked in dark red approached the training grounds, aura flaring with hostile intent.
> Stranger (whispers):
"So this is the boy…"
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Scene 2: Azrakel Gets Physical
As the enemy moved in, time seemed to slow for Aeron. The air froze. Then—
A massive blast of glowing energy erupted from Aeron's chest, and from it rose a tall, glowing figure with white hair, long coat, and a wicked grin.
> Azrakel (now fully physical):
"Alright, alright, alright! I gave you enough time, but I guess it's Azzy Time now!"
Aeron gasped, half in awe, half in confusion.
> Aeron:
"You… have a body now?!"
> Azrakel (winks):
"Yup! Welcome to Level 5, kid. I unlocked it for you early. You're welcome."
He turned toward the attacker and cracked his knuckles.
> Azrakel (to attacker):
"This training arc has surprise bosses now? At least wait for Episode 20!"
> (To readers)
"Hey! Grab popcorn, folks. The comedy relief just got upgrade access."
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Scene 3: Azrakel's Power Unleashed
Azrakel raised a single hand and the entire sky above the intruder shattered like glass. A golden barrier surrounded Aeron instantly.
> Azrakel:
"This barrier will protect you while I play. You still need to level up properly."
Then, without even touching the ground, Azrakel floated forward. With a single flick of his fingers, the enemy was blasted miles away into the ocean.
> Azrakel (grinning):
"No spoilers. Come back when you're worthy."
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Scene 4: Aeron Recovers
Aeron dropped to his knees, overwhelmed by the amount of energy that just surged through him. The glow around his chest remained—his powers were now permanently at Level 5.
> Azrakel (floating upside-down):
"Feel that? That's your real strength waking up. Now you're officially above 99% of this world. But still waaay behind the top 1%."
> Aeron:
"Why help now?"
> Azrakel:
"Because I like you. And because if you die, I have to go back to being a floating voice. No thanks."
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Scene 5: Ryden Returns
Ryden flew in, alarmed by the leftover blast marks. His eyes widened seeing Azrakel.
> Ryden (quietly):
"He's awakened… the Guardian."
> Azrakel:
"Ryden, long time no see. Still using that outdated sword style?"
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End of Episode 17