WebNovels

Chapter 18 - Chapter 18: Duel of the Apex

The sky darkened as storm clouds gathered over the northern stronghold. Wind howled, carrying the scent of fire and blood, and the ground trembled under the combined presence of two world-level beings. The True Hybrid hovered above the tallest tower, wings partially extended, golden eyes locking onto the human king. His tail coiled behind him, fire simmering along his arms, a predator's aura radiating in every direction.

> [Current Status | Player: Unassigned | Race: Dragon-Human Hybrid | Level: 22 | HP: 120/140 | MP: 110/110]

[Skills Active: Flame Manipulation, Tail Barrage, Wing Gust, Dragon Surge, Flame Storm, Absolute Tail Strike]

The King stood firm, black-and-gold armor reflecting the flickering light of the rising sun. In his hand, a massive blade hummed with raw magical energy, a weapon capable of rending mountains. His eyes glowed with calculated intent—this fight was not just about victory, it was a test of supremacy.

Finally… a challenge worthy of my power, the True Hybrid thought, fire simmering hotter in his chest.

With a roar that split the clouds, he lunged. Flame erupted from his hands, coiling like serpents toward the King, while wings flared to create a gust that destabilized the ground below. The King raised his blade, forming a magical barrier that deflected the flames, sparks cascading into the air.

> [XP Gained: 600 | Skill Progress: Flame Manipulation +25% | Dragon Surge Buff Active]

The True Hybrid struck again, combining speed and power. Tail lashed out like a whip, knocking the King off balance, while a burst of Wing Gust propelled him forward midair. The King countered with a spinning strike, blade tearing through the air, meeting claws and fire simultaneously. Sparks and flames collided, creating shockwaves that rattled the stronghold.

> [HP Lost: -15 | Current HP: 105/140]

The duel escalated. Each attack was precise, powerful, and devastating. Fire met steel, dragon instinct met human mastery, and every strike pushed both combatants to the limits of their skill. The King unleashed a torrent of magical energy, ripping chunks of stone from the tower and sending shards flying. The True Hybrid twisted midair, flames scorching the debris, claws raking through his opponent's defenses.

> [XP Gained: 800 | Skill Progress: Flame Storm +20% | Tail Barrage Maxed]

Golden eyes narrowed. He could feel the King's power, immense and refined, but not enough to match him. Every strike, every movement, was a test of superiority. With a roar, he activated Absolute Tail Strike, multiple strikes hitting with lethal force, knocking the King to one knee, magical barrier faltering under the combined assault of fire, tail, and claws.

> [XP Gained: 1200 | Level 22 → 23 progress: 50% | New Skill Unlocked: Dragon's Dominion (Buff & Area Control)]

The King staggered back, gaze sharp, breathing heavily, yet still defiant. "So… you have truly transcended…" he said, voice calm despite the devastation around him. "But this… is far from over."

The True Hybrid hovered, wings flexing, fire simmering low in his chest. Around them, the battlefield shook. Rival dragons circled in the distance, beasts and monsters watched from the forests, and humans trembled behind the walls of the kingdom. All felt the dominance radiating from the apex predator in hybrid form.

> [System Notice: World-Level Threats Acknowledged | Multiple Enemies | Recommended: Prepare for Extended Engagement]

Golden eyes glinted. Let them come. Let the King, the beasts, and the dragons test me. I will dominate all. I am the True Hybrid. The storm that will sweep the world.

With a roar that shattered the skies, he launched toward the King, wings flaring fully, fire trailing like molten rivers, tail coiling for another strike. The duel for supremacy had only begun—and the world would never forget the day the apex predator in human form clashed with the mightiest king alive.

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