The Return to Draeogorth and Dread Academy
Noah's feet landed softly on the cobblestone streets of the Draegorth , his senses alive with the familiar energy of the bustling metropolis. The towering spires of blackened stone, the shadows that clung to every corner, and the whispers of power that lingered in the air all felt… mundane now. He had returned, but the world around him seemed smaller, less significant. His mind was sharp, focused, and the weight of his newfound power as a **Night Conqueror** hummed beneath his skin, eager to be tested.
The journey through the ruins had changed him in ways he had yet to fully comprehend. The ruins were no longer just a mystery to be unraveled—they were the catalyst that had propelled him to this new, terrifying height. **Class Evolution** had done more than amplify his abilities. It had brought him closer to a being of myth, a creature born from shadow and blood. He was no longer just a hunter, a newcomer to this world. He was a force.
But with power came caution, and Noah understood better than anyone that the road ahead would not be as simple as just gaining strength. The threats that lingered in the darkness, the enemies he had made, and the secrets he had uncovered—none of it could be ignored. He had come to a crossroads.
With a swift motion, he pulled his cloak tighter around him, masking his true presence from the world as best he could. He could feel the eyes of the city on him—eyes that no longer saw just an ambitious young hunter, but something far more dangerous. The streets were alive with rumors, with stories of those who had disappeared into the shadows, and Noah, despite his new form, was no stranger to the whispers that flowed through the wind.
His first move upon returning was instinctual: contact Ralthoron K'vorr.
---
Noah stepped into a secluded room, his fingers brushing the rune-etched communication stone that lay on the desk before him. As his mana surged, the stone flared to life, its glow casting eerie shadows across the room. A few moments passed before the Headmaster's image materialized before him—an older man, his eyes sharp, his presence commanding.
"Noah," Ralthoron K'vorr voice echoed in the chamber, deep and measured. "I take it your expedition was successful."
"Indeed," Noah replied, his tone calm but carrying the weight of his experience. "The ruins held more than I expected. I've evolved, and my strength has grown beyond what I could have imagined."
The Headmaster raised an eyebrow, the faintest trace of amusement playing across his face. "I sensed your power the moment you stepped into the city. It's... unmistakable. You've reached **Level 25**, haven't you? Your **Night Sovereign** class evolved into something much more dangerous. What is the name of the class?"
Noah nodded slowly, his gaze unwavering. "The name is night conquerer and I have access to abilities I once thought impossible. My power has increased exponentially. But with it comes the responsibility of maintaining secrecy."
The Headmaster's expression grew more serious. "I've heard the whispers. Your strength is now on par with some of the academy's most experienced professors. In fact, you might be stronger than most of them at this point." He paused, his eyes narrowing slightly. "And yet, you still remain a student."
"I don't need the academy anymore," Noah replied bluntly. "Not in the way I once did. My path is no longer that of a mere hunter or student. But there are… complications. I'm not ready to be known for what I've become."
The Headmaster considered this, his fingers steepling as he leaned back in his chair. "You're correct. Revealing your true power now would be unwise. The pursuit of power is never without consequences, Noah. There are many who would wish to test your strength, to control you, or eliminate you should they perceive you as a threat."
Noah's lips twisted into a faint smile. "I'm well aware. I've made enemies along the way. But I won't let that define me. I want to grow stronger, and I don't need anyone's interference."
The Headmaster's smile was slight, but knowing. "Then we'll keep your progress a secret. For now. The academy will remain your cover—your sanctuary from those who would hunt you. We'll continue to teach you, guide you, but you will no longer be bound by the restrictions of a typical student. As long as you remain here, no one will know the extent of your true power."
Noah's eyes gleamed with understanding. "I'll continue to learn what I can, but I don't need to announce my strength. I'll handle my enemies in my own way."
The Headmaster nodded. "Good. You've always been one to think ahead. We will ensure that no one suspects your growth. Let them continue to believe you are a mere fledgling, still finding your way. And when the time comes, when you are truly ready to make your mark, you will strike with the full force of your power. Until then, remain hidden in plain sight."
Noah's gaze softened, a quiet gratitude in his expression. "Thank you, Headmaster. I'll take this as my advantage."
The Headmaster's smile grew, albeit faint. "You've always had potential, Noah. But now, with your new strength, you must be careful. You've become a danger to the world around you. Proceed wisely."
---
The conversation ended, the communication stone flickering out of existence, and Noah was left in the silence of the room. His mind raced with the possibilities. He had never intended to remain a simple student. But now, with his true strength hidden from the world, he was in a position of power far beyond what anyone in the academy—or the city—could imagine.
Noah knew that his journey had only just begun. The **Night Conqueror** within him was still only beginning to awaken, and he needed to test his limits, hone his abilities, and prepare for the battles that lay ahead. With the academy as his cover and the Ralthoron K'vorr* support, he could grow in ways others couldn't even comprehend. No one would know the truth of his power—not yet.
As he left the room, his thoughts turned toward the future. The path ahead was uncertain, filled with dangers and opportunities alike. But Noah was ready. The world would soon know that he was no longer just a hunter. He was something far more. And when the time came to reveal his true strength, they would be ready for nothing less than the rise of a **Night Conqueror**.
The shadows were waiting.