In a world where history had split in two, Earth was no longer alone. Five hundred years ago, the *Great Merge* fused reality with a game-like dimension called **Arcadia**, where magic, monsters, and gods ruled. Humanity adapted, awakening talents, levels, and systems of power to survive. But even after centuries, Arcadia remained a crucible of war.
---
**Eighteen Years Before the Awakening Ceremony**
A hospital room in **Imperial City**, capital of the Revan Empire.
A newborn's first cry echoed through the chamber, but his dark eyes carried no innocence. His gaze held an ancient weight, like a man who had seen worlds rise and fall.
*Kael Drayth*—once feared across realms as the **Shadow King**, a master of shadows and terror—had returned.
**"It worked."** His thoughts, sharp and clear, swirled in triumph. "I'm alive… and my memories are intact."
The doctors marveled at the child's calmness, unaware of the soul within. In his past life, Kael had fallen at the hands of treacherous gods after defying their reign. Now, reborn into the most powerful family of the Revan Empire, he would walk the path of destiny once more.
---
**Present Day – School of Awakening Ceremony**
The grand marble hall of **Celestine Academy** was filled with anticipation. Hundreds of students, heirs to noble houses and common-born prodigies alike, stood in rows as magical inscriptions etched into the floor began to glow. It was the day they would awaken their **Arcadian Talents**—the gifts that would determine their future in this unforgiving world.
Kael, now eighteen, stood among them. His raven-black hair framed a sharp face, his dark eyes calm and calculating. While others fidgeted nervously, Kael simply smirked.
"This world still thinks it's ruled by gods and heroes," he whispered to himself. "They'll learn soon enough."
A blinding light erupted from the sigils as the **System** activated.
---
**[Awakening Process Initiated…]**
**Name: Kael Drayth**
**Bloodline: Shadow Sovereign (Sealed)**
**Talent: SSS-Rank**
**Specialization: King of Shadows**
When the light faded, the hall fell silent. All eyes turned to Kael as a towering projection of a dark, swirling crown materialized above his head. The air grew heavy with power, and the shadows around him writhed like living things.
The instructors, seasoned warriors and mages, gaped in disbelief. "An SSS-Rank talent…" one whispered. "The Crown of Shadows… he's…"
Kael's smirk widened.
*Let the gods tremble.*
---