The Armored Drake colpsed with a final, ear-splitting roar. Its molten eyes flickered before going dark, its massive body shaking the ruins as it hit the ground. The air smelled of burnt flesh and scorched stone, heat still radiating from its scales.

  Xeran exhaled, his muscles still tense from the fight. He gnced at Seraphina, who stood over the fallen beast, her fming sword dimming as the st embers faded. Blood dripped from a cut on her cheek, but she didn’t even seem to notice.

  She wiped her bde on her armor before turning to him. “Not bad,” she admitted, tilting her head. “For a reckless idiot.”

  Xeran smirked. “I could say the same to you, Princess.”

  She narrowed her eyes. “Don’t call me that.”

  Before he could respond, a System notification fshed before his eyes.

  [Quest Completed: Sy the Armored Drake!]

  Rewards: Beast Core (Draconic), Title: "Drake Syer," EXP +5000

  Xeran felt the power surge through him. His body burned with newfound strength as his Devourer ability activated.

  [Absorbing Beast Core… Processing…]

  Golden runes flickered across his skin for a moment before fading. He clenched his fists—his power had increased significantly.

  Seraphina noticed the change. “What… exactly are you?”

  Xeran chuckled. “Just a traveler looking for a good fight.”

  She scoffed but didn’t push further. Instead, she sheathed her sword and took a step toward him. “That beast was my target.”

  He raised an eyebrow. “So, I just saved your life, then?”

  Seraphina crossed her arms. “I didn’t need saving.”

  Xeran gnced at the wound on her side, the torn fabric of her armor. “Uh-huh. Sure.”

  She followed his gaze, clicking her tongue in annoyance. “Fine. You helped. Don’t get used to it.”

  Xeran chuckled. “Since you owe me now, how about buying me a drink?”

  She blinked, surprised by the sudden shift. Then, for the first time, a small smirk tugged at her lips. “Hmph. You’re bold, I’ll give you that.”

  Before she could answer, the sound of distant footsteps echoed through the ruins.

  More people were coming.

  Xeran and Seraphina exchanged gnces. Their battle hadn’t gone unnoticed.

  TO BE CONTINUED…