### Chapter 5: The Fall of the Black Hand
Allen stood at the edge of a dense forest, looking through the bushes at the Black Hand's camp. Mercenary groups were known for their brutality and efficiency.
Eliminating them would send a clear message to everyone in Ellaria: a new power had risen. He observed the mercenaries' movements with cold eyes, assessing their methods and defenses with quick thinking. This ability allowed him to process information with incredible speed, breaking complex situations into manageable pieces and discovering weaknesses in enemy strategies.
"Elara," he called softly, his voice not very warm. She stood next to him, still bound to the mana chains he created through energy manipulation. The glistening, flowing chains were a testament to his growing power, able to bind even those of great strength. "You will stay here and use your imagination to make sure no one sees our way," Allen said.
Elara's ability to perceive and influence emotions was important in covert operations, but Allen saw her only as a means of control.
Elara reluctantly nodded, her eyes filled with fear and determination. She intended to spread the camp's silent atmosphere by making sure no one would notice. Allen activated the Shadow Step skill he received from Jarek, which allowed him to move invisibly and unheard.
He disappeared into the shadows, his form barely visible when he arrived at the camp. His enhanced agility allowed him to move faster and quieter. He easily maneuvered around the guards, their thoughts dulled by Elara's influence.
Arriving at the center of the camp, he found their leader, a large man named Garrick, known for his brute strength and tactical acumen. Garrick's special ability, "Battle Cry," could increase the morale and strength of allies while demoralizing the enemy. Allen knew he had to defeat Garrick immediately.
He stood behind the tent, his energy manipulation allowing him to transform mana into destructive energy. He cast a spell that focused his energy into concentrated lightning. The crackle of lightning was the only warning Garrick received before it struck him and paralyzed him with its force.
Allen emerged from the shadows, his eyes cold and calculating. Garrick struggled to his feet, his eyes flashing with anger. He opened his mouth to let out a battle cry, but Allen was faster. He moved quickly, drew his sword, and began his sword dance.
His movements were blurry, each attack precise and deadly. Garrick tried to fight back but was overwhelmed by Allen's speed and skill. When Garrick fell, Allen used Mimic to steal his Battle Cry ability. This process required good thinking and precision. As the skill transferred to him, he felt the familiar power and his status window updated.
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**Name:** Allen
**Age:** 18
**Unique Abilities:** Mimicry, Memory Recall, Thought Acceleration, Energy Manipulation, Sword Dance, Life Weaving, Shadow Step, Iron Will, [Battle Cry]
**Mana:** 10500
**Attack:** 75
**Defense:** 65
**AGI:** 70
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He stood up from Garrick's body, feeling the impact of victory behind him. Realizing that their leader had fallen, the soldiers around the camp began to stir. Allen opened his mouth and let out a scream, his voice echoing throughout the camp.
The mercenaries were all stunned, their hearts broken by the cry of power. Allen took this opportunity and fired several energy bolts, destroying the rest of the crew. His mastery of energy manipulation allowed him to direct the bolts with deadly accuracy, leaving no one behind.
Elara watched in horror as the camp was destroyed; her thoughts faded away as the last warrior fell. Allen turned to her but showed no understanding. "Let this be a lesson to those who oppose me," he said coldly. "Strength is the most important thing, and I will do whatever it takes to achieve my goal."
Elara shivered, realizing the depth of Allen's transformation. He was no longer driven by the injustice of his past life; the once promising hero had turned into a villain, and his quest for control had only just begun.
As Allen left the Black Hand's camp, his mind was already on his next destination. He would conquer Ellaria piece by piece until the entire world bowed to his will. Even if he remained human, nothing could stop him.