Chapter 6: Inevitable Clash

    The High Priestess, was momentarily stunned, she released Seraphine, but she remained on her feet, the looks of shock could clear be seen on her face.

    Around them, the knights paused for a brief moment, then erupted into cheers, convinced the tyrant emperor had met his end.

    "Finally, he''s gone!"

    "We''re free!"

    "Celebrate, comrades! Today is ours!"

    "Long live our new era!"

    "The tyrant emperor has perished!"

    But the moment of celebration was cut short as Nythralis let out a pained roar that echoed across the battlefield, silencing the crowd.

    All eyes turned toward the swirling dust, a look of confusion etched on their faces.

    The knights, mages, and archers stood frozen, many collapsing to their knees in shock.

    "No... It can''t be!"

    "He should be dead!"

    "What just happened?" @@@@

    "Is this a trick?"

    "It''s impossible!"

    Seraphine''s face lit up with hope as she watched the dust begin to settle, her heart racing.

    The High Priestess, her voice filled with awe, spoke softly, "By the gods... how is he still standing?"

    "Could it be... that the emperor has truly changed?"

    "Has he gained the favor of the gods?"

    "Perhaps they now see his potential?"

    Seraphine, her surprise turning into pride, lifted her chin slightly. "I always believed in him,"

    "Our liege is destined for greatness."

    Meanwhile, in Arkanos'' mind, the system''s voice echoed in his thoughts.

    [Congratulations! You have achieved an incredible feat: wounding a mythical-class monster! +356XP +100UP.]

    [Your fame has risen slightly. Some gods are beginning to take an interest in you.]

    Arkanos felt a small pulse of satisfaction, causing him to smile slightly. But the messages didn''t stop there.

    [The loyalty of your troops has increased by 10%.]

    Arkanos, raised the holy sword, pointing it toward the wounded Nythralis. A faint smirk on his lips as he spoke, "Is this all the strength a mighty creature like you can muster? I''ve seen hatchlings with more bite."

    "Don''t tell me..."

    "Your excuse now will be that you had fallen from grace?"

    "You insolent wretch!" The serpent''s voice boomed, shaking the very ground beneath them.

    "I will ensure your end is agonizing. You will regret your arrogance, mortal!"

    Arkanos smiled, a dark glint in his eyes. He slowly raised the holy sword, pointing its gleaming blade directly at Nythralis. "Do your worst then, creature of darkness."

    "Let''s see if you can back up those words."