Chapter 34: The Price of Power
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The Aftermath of the Duel
The courtyard was still and silent as Cedric Kaelthorne stumbled back, clutching his wrist where Azrael's sword had slashed through the air, disarming him with a single, effortless move. His once-proud stance was now shattered, his chest heaving with the weight of his defeat. The Kaelthorne family stood around them, murmurs spreading like wildfire, eyes wide in disbelief.
Azrael's victory was swift and decisive. His level 9 aura radiated with the intensity of his power, a stark contrast to Cedric's level 7. The younger Kaelthorne's gaze was cold, unwavering, as he stood tall, watching his brother's disgrace with a calm that bordered on indifference.
Cedric's face twisted in anger as he attempted to regain his composure. "You think you've won, Azrael?" he spat, eyes flashing with rage. "You may have beaten me today, but I will never bow to you. Never!"
Azrael's expression remained stoic, his hands loosely gripping Necrilith at his side. "You've already lost," he said, his voice calm but cutting. "Not just today, Cedric, but everything. I'm the one who's earned the title of Young Grand Duke now. And there's nothing you or anyone else can do about it."
The family head, seated at a distance, watched the scene unfold in silence. The tension in the air was palpable, the weight of the duel's result settling in like a storm cloud ready to break. He stood and made his way toward Azrael, his face unreadable, though his eyes gleamed with something close to approval.
"You've done it, Azrael," the family head finally spoke, his voice deep and measured. "You've proven yourself, and the title of Young Grand Duke is yours. But remember, with that power comes responsibility. You can no longer act recklessly."
Azrael met his gaze, unflinching. "I understand. This is just the beginning."
The family head studied him for a moment longer, as if weighing his words. "Very well. But remember, you must tread carefully. The Kaelthorne name is powerful, and there are many who will want to take advantage of your rise."
Azrael nodded curtly, his mind already racing with plans and strategies. He had claimed his title, but he knew the true fight was only just beginning.
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Back in the Family Estate
Azrael's newfound position as Young Grand Duke came with more than just the authority to command. As the family members who had gathered for the duel slowly dispersed, the reality of his victory settled in. The estate, once cold and indifferent to him, now felt like his domain. He was the one with the power, the one in control.
But power was not a gift—it came with a price.
Azrael entered the private study of the Kaelthorne estate, the door shutting quietly behind him. It was here that the family's most important decisions were made, and it would now be his to wield.
He sat at the large desk, his fingers brushing the papers that lay scattered across it. Reports from the frontlines of the war, updates on the family's dealings, and most importantly, the various factions within the Kaelthorne family—each with its own agenda.
For a moment, he allowed himself to reflect. His father, the family head, had given him the title, but it was clear that his rise would not be unchallenged. There would be those who would seek to undermine him, whether for personal gain or to protect their own interests. The Asrock family, in particular, would not take kindly to his newfound power.
A sharp knock at the door broke his thoughts, and without waiting for a response, the door creaked open. Elaris Velmira stepped into the room, her eyes scanning the space before landing on Azrael. She seemed both concerned and curious.
"You did it," she said, her voice soft but filled with admiration. "You're the Young Grand Duke now. But… what comes next, Azrael?"
Azrael leaned back in his chair, his hands steepled together in front of him. "The war. I will take it to the frontlines. I'll end this conflict quickly, without the interference of the Kaelthorne or Asrock families."
Elaris frowned, stepping closer. "You're not planning to act alone, are you? I understand your desire to be free of their control, but you'll need support."
Azrael's gaze hardened. "I don't need their support. I've earned this title. I don't need anyone's approval."
Elaris sighed, crossing her arms. "Azrael, you've never been one to accept help, but sometimes you'll have to. You can't fight this war alone. Even with your strength, there are forces at play that you can't control."
"I'll control everything," Azrael said, his voice unwavering. "It's the only way."
Elaris's eyes softened as she watched him. She could see the weight of his resolve, the isolation in his determination. "Just remember that power can be a double-edged sword," she said quietly. "You may win battles, but you could lose yourself in the process."
Azrael's lips twisted into a cold smile. "I won't lose. Not to anyone. Not even myself."
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A Meeting with Veyrin
Later that day, Azrael made his way to Veyrin Malzev's estate. The man had been more than a friend to him—he had been an ally, a confidant in a world where trust was a rare commodity. Azrael needed someone he could rely on, and Veyrin's words had always been blunt but insightful.
Veyrin greeted him with his usual playful grin, though his eyes were sharp with concern. "Well, look who finally decided to show up as Young Grand Duke," he said, leaning back in his chair, his sky-blue hair glimmering under the light. "I figured you'd be too busy with your new title to drop by."
Azrael gave a half-smile, his posture rigid as he took a seat across from Veyrin. "It's been a long day. And I'm not here for idle conversation. The war… it's only a matter of time before I head to the frontlines. I need to plan my next steps."
Veyrin nodded, his expression turning serious. "I figured as much. You've got a lot on your plate now. But don't let your ambition blind you. There's more to the Kaelthorne family's politics than just strength. You're stepping into a game much larger than you think."
Azrael met his gaze. "I know. But I've already made my move. I'm not turning back."
"Good," Veyrin said, leaning forward. "But remember, Azrael—your strength is undeniable, but there are those who will want to use it for their own gain. Don't be fooled by those who come to you with false smiles and empty promises."
Azrael's eyes narrowed, his hand tightening around the armrest. "I won't be used."
Veyrin chuckled softly. "That's the spirit. Just be careful. The Kaelthorne family won't make it easy for you, and neither will the Asrock family. They're going to come after you. But if you need help, you know where to find me."
"I'll keep that in mind," Azrael said, standing up. "But for now, I have a war to end."
As he left Veyrin's estate, the weight of his decisions settled heavier on his shoulders. He had gained the title, but it came with a responsibility he couldn't escape. His rise had only just begun, and the path ahead was lined with enemies, both within his own family and beyond.
The war would not wait. And neither would he.
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End of Chapter 34