Ascension of the Mortal God

Chapter 12: The Aftermath

The battlefield was eerily silent, the echoes of the clash still ringing in Kael's ears. His breathing was ragged, his body aching from the relentless assault. The dust settled, revealing the remnants of the fierce duel. Selene stood a few feet away, her blade still glowing faintly from the last exchange.

Kael wiped the blood from his brow and forced himself to stand straight. "You're stronger than I expected," he admitted, his voice steady despite his exhaustion.

Selene smirked, but her eyes held a flicker of respect. "And you're more stubborn than I gave you credit for."

The tension between them lingered for a moment before Selene sheathed her sword. "This fight is over—for now," she declared, turning away. "But don't think this means you've won. The real challenge has yet to begin."

Kael exhaled sharply, watching as she disappeared into the distance. He knew this was just a taste of what was to come. Clenching his fists, he vowed to push himself even further. If he was to ascend beyond mere mortality, he couldn't afford to hold back.

The wind carried the scent of battle away, but the weight of his journey had only grown heavier. The road ahead promised more than just blood and steel—it demanded his very soul.

With renewed determination, Kael took a step forward, knowing that the next battle was already on the horizon.

To be continued-