Chapter 14: Chapter 14: Underestimated Power
Later that night, Valen stood alone on the balcony of his tower, gazing out at the vast landscape that stretched beyond the horizon. The moonlight bathed the world in silver, and the cool night breeze whispered through the air. His mind was not on the stars or the beauty of the night, but on the intricate web of politics, power, and deception that he was navigating.
It had always been this way. Even before he had been reincarnated into this world, he had known the game of power. It was one of manipulation, strategy, and calculated moves. But here, in this world, the stakes were higher. People thought they understood him, believed they knew his limits. Yet even now, they still underestimated him.
Seraphis's words from earlier echoed in his mind: "Your strength has always been underestimated." It was true, but not in the way Seraphis thought.
The world had ranked him under 20th among the strongest figures—an insult, in Valen's mind. They had seen only what he had allowed them to see. His title as Duke, his position of authority in the tower, and his reputation as a vampire lord had all been carefully curated. The truth was far more dangerous.
In the game, Valen had been ruthless, manipulating and crushing those who defied him. But in this life, he had chosen a different path. He had concealed his true strength, allowing others to believe he was merely a mid-boss, someone who could be outmaneuvered with enough cunning. It suited his purposes for now. Let them think they could challenge him. Let them believe they were closing in.
But when the time came, Valen would show them what true power looked like.
Weekly Power Status
-- Power
Ranking 
-- Power
stone