Chapter 523: Favorable Display
Chapter 523: Favorable Display
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The excitement within Xorgrah's eyes grew at an exponential rate as he continued to observe the power within the palm of Fuhrer's hand. It was a type of ability that escaped the realm of his knowledge and teetered on the precipice of enrapturing Xorgrah.
Luckily, Xorgrah was astute enough to retain his wits before the presence of others. An expected outburst could sully his image in the eyes of others, forging the false pretense that an item or technique of interest was enough to move him and gain his cooperation.
Even if it were the truth, it was always best to keep one's true intentions hidden lest one be easily taken advantage of. Thus, Xorgrah cleared his throat and recovered his former calm appearance while continuing to gaze at the source of power within Fuhrer's palm.
Not too long after, Xorgrah gave a subtle nod. "At a glance, I can sense that it's a very powerful ability. However, how useful is it in combat? What's more, are you suggesting that you'll teach the stronger demons how to wield this power?"
"How useful is it in combat?" Fuhrer parrotted with a faint grin. "Surely, you remember the events of our initial confrontation? I didn't use any pressure aside from what's before your eyes, and that alone was enough to deter you from taking further actions. So, you tell me, is that sufficient enough for combat?"
"Yes," Xorgrah admitted. But, from his unsettled expression, it was clear that he had other questions on his mind as well. "But, we can't overlook that there are other matters related to overwhelming someone in battle. I don't think it's safe to assume that the same force will deter everyone. There may be some with resistance to this pressure."
"Perhaps," Fuhrer answered with an indifferent shrug. "Which is why I want you to know that the power manifests differently in everyone. So, it isn't safe to explain in such a direct way. Rather, I'm just offering the guidance that will point you down your correct path."
Learning about this matter intrigued Xorgrah, and even Saehtyn tapped Xorgrah's shoulder. "What's this initial contact he speaks of? Is this not the full scope of that unusual power in his possession?"
"Not even close. He's able to create something akin to a large sphere of this power. It clashed against my Sin without faltering in the slightest. In fact, it was me who found myself wavering quickly," Xorgrah replied.
Xorgrah's admittance only served to deepen Saehtyn's interest in Aura further. After all, his eyes were opened ever since he witnessed Asteroth nonsensical strength that surpassed the realm of Sin related to his evolution state.
"Can we have a small presentation of your specific power in combat?" Saehtyn wondered. Although he didn't doubt Xorgrah or Fuhrer, he wanted to witness firsthand the difference in Asteroth's and Fuhrer's application of this power.
Because of this request, not just Saehtyn but even Asmidia, Belphegor, and Xonnomor chimed in, wanting to watch the display. However, Fuhrer didn't provide an answer until he ran the possibility by Apollo.
"Should I do so?" Fuhrer asked. Though it seemed like a simple request, revealing the power at his disposal could be considered an act of exerting his dominance. If Fuhrer displayed this power and overwhelmed those before him, the immeasurable gap previously underestimated would cause them to tread carefully.
In some cases, that would be beneficial, but it could turn out to become overly detrimental in other attempts.
"Do it," Apollo nodded. However, the rest of his message was delivered mentally since an alternative agenda was attached to allowing Fuhrer to perform this action. 'Use this opportunity to convey how important it is for the demons to chase after this power. After creating the demand, we can manipulate the proceedings in the way we see fit.'
'Duly noted. I will ensure that their desire for this power is at an unprecedented high. You have my word,' Fuhrer responded.
'I expect nothing less of the former Grand Marshal,' Apollo said with a faint grin. Afterward, Fuhrer took a step forward with his hand on Brynhildr's hilt. The moment he performed this action, his aura skyrocketed to monstrous levels.
"Keep in mind; this is by no means a hostile attack. With that being said, I welcome all of you to approach me at once so that you receive a proper understanding of this power's breadth," Fuhrer said.
In response, Xorgrah's brows furrowed. "All of us? There are at least 4 of us that'd be willing to make a move."
"Correct, and four is more than enough to generate the needed response. Now, no more dallying; COME!" Fuhrer said. A violent shockwave emitted from his body towards the end, pushing back all of the Lords and Xorgrah.
Following this shockwave, Fuhrer stepped outside to avoid the forge suffering extensive damage. The others followed, creating a persistent trail of power leading from the forge.
Meanwhile, only Apollo and Xonnomor were left in the forge. Seeing as how Apollo felt this demonstration wouldn't take long, he felt no reason to leave this place when they would all soon return. On the other hand, Apollo continued to brief Xonnomor on the matters related to forging.
…
Above the Dakea Stronghold, roughly one thousand meters in the air.
All of the involved parties levitated in the air while silently mustering their power. It wasn't hard for them to remain suspended in mid-air at their stage in strength. It merely required a unique Demonic Anima emission to neutralize any downward forces.
"We begin," Fuhrer said suddenly, drawing his blade at a speed that nearly escaped everyone's perception. This was the first time they witnessed a master of the sword with such a frightening quickdraw. However, the speed of his draw was far from being the most terrifying aspect of Fuhrer's attack.
Each of the Lords and Xorgrah could sense an attack moving towards them rapidly. From the sensation emitted by the attack, it was clear Fuhrer was utilizing the same power from earlier. Granted, there were a few differences in the attack.
For example, there was an enigmatic presence that none of the Lords could quite put their finger on. Naturally, this power was the power of the void, in other words, the Tenebrous Way, which was a lost practice in this day and age.
The first to deal with their attack was Saehtyn; however, he was immediately forced to use his full-fledge Iraym Form and spew endless amounts of Hellfire to deal with the attack. Contrary to his expectations, the attack grew exponentially more fearsome the more he pushed against the attack.
Meanwhile, Belphegor wracked his mind to figure out a way to devour the attack before. Still, whenever he made progress, the attack seemed to mutate into something much worse, as if there was an endless supply of the energy used to facilitate the act.
However, Xorgrah fared much better than the others, given that he had prior exposure to this power. Still, his condition was much better than the others because Fuhrer gave them zero time to adjust before wholly unleashing his Dominion.
The surge of oppressive force nearly forced all of the demons out of the sky, but right before that could happen, they all managed to steady themselves, earning Fuhrer's surprise.
"You know, I've been gradually cultivating this power back to its former magnificence, so the fact you can withstand the initial impact is commendable," Fuhrer said. Sadly, he didn't conceal his mischievous grin as he clenched his first, condensing the Dominion continuously.
"Oh, great heavens! What is this damned pressure~?!" Asmidia screeched while clutching her chest. The rapid compression of Fuhrer's Dominion made breathing difficult, even causing frequent lapses in her power.
On the other hand, Saehtyn looked at Fuhrer with a peculiar gaze, "Does this power span even further than what you are presenting? I feel as if you're own revealing enough to overwhelm us but know to compromise any hidden techniques."
"Perhaps, but the real question is, are you strong enough to handle the ramification of the power at my disposal?" Fuhrer countered.
In response, Saethyn's expression grew firm. "I believe so."
"What?! Speak for yourself! I want nothing more to do with this power. It hurts―terribly if I may add!" Asmidia commented. Fortunately, Fuhrer took into account everyone's tolerance levels before proceeding.
"Very well," Fuhrer answered. Without a second's hesitation, the Dominion surrounding everyone underwent a transformation with specks of silver interspersed throughout the grayish sphere.
Following the change in the Dominion, Fuhrer slashed his sword relentlessly, unleashing a barrage of attacks originating from the Dominion itself, and they were all aimed at Saehtyn. Since he was the one who asked for it, Fuhrer chose him as the sole recipient of the attack.