The Fallen Fantasy: The First Arc

Chapter 9: Red vs. Hael - Crimson Surge.

In the previous chapter, Azael's team emerged victorious against the Blue-Eyed demons, but their triumph was short-lived. Azael sensed a powerful presence approaching, one that would surpass even the Blue-Eyed demons. The arrival of Hael, the crimson red-eyed male, marked a turning point in the battle for power. With his intimidating aura and mysterious intentions, Hael's presence threw the land into chaos, leaving Azael and his team wondering what lay ahead.

Gira: Hael, you're here?

Kirana: Hael, they also killed Marine.

Hael: Is that so? Their that strong?

Hael's voice was like a gentle breeze on a summer's day, but one that carried the hint of a gathering storm. It was soft and melodious, yet sent shivers down the spine, making it impossible to ignore. His words dripped with an otherworldly confidence, as if he held secrets that no one else could comprehend.

Despite his intimidating aura, Hael's appearance belied his true power. He looked like a mere child, no older than 14 years, with a slender build and an unassuming stature. His crimson hair was messy and unkempt, framing a face that seemed almost angelic, if not for the piercing crimson eyes that burned with an inner fire. Those eyes seemed to hold a depth of wisdom and knowledge that was far beyond his youthful appearance.

Gira: We also couldn't...

Hael: Don't explain. It is clear you're dealing with formidable opponents.

Kirana: But...

Hael: All of you... [speaks to Azael and his friends] who is the leader?

Azael: [Scoffs] The leader? Come on, you can't tell?

Hael: [Looks at Azael] By your response, you're the leader?

Azael: That's right.

Hael: I sense your energy is depleted, literally, by a whole 99 percent.

Azael: *In his head* He knows my energy percentage, a skill I haven't learned yet. This guy is something else.

Hael: [Looks at Red] But, you're at a full 100 percent. Will you fight for your friends, or shall I just kill all of you right now?

Red: [Serious expression]

Azael: Red? Don't forget what I taught you that day.

Red: ...

Flashback: Azael teaching Red the aspects of Apex Surge 1 year ago

Azael stood before Red, who was then a novice, eager to learn the powerful technique of Apex Surge. Azael's eyes gleamed with intensity as he began the lesson.

"Apex Surge is not just a technique, Red. It's a state of mind. You must focus your energy, your thoughts, and your will into a singular point, in this moment, that point is your whole body."

Red nodded, absorbing every word.

Azael continued, "But remember, Red, true strength lies not in the power itself, but in the wisdom to know when to use it. Never forget, a true warrior must always balance power with compassion and strength with mercy."

Red's eyes widened, grasping the depth of Azael's words.

Azael placed a hand on Red's shoulder, his gaze serious. "And always remember, Red, when faced with an enemy, don't just fight with your fists, fight with your heart. Understand their pain, their fears, and their motivations. Most importantly, don't forget to say die, but when you do, you have to mean it.

Red nodded, etched Azael's words into his memory.

Back to the present

Red's eyes snapped back to the present, Hael's words still echoing in his mind. He recalled Azael's advice, and a fierce determination burned within him.