Chapter 28: The Reaper's Rise

After thirty minutes, Leo's eyes fluttered open. The raging storm had cleared, leaving the mountain bathed in a warm golden light. The air smelled fresh, tinged with ozone, and his body felt… strange. It was as if lightning coursed through his veins instead of blood. 

The System's calm, monotone voice broke the silence: 

**"Assimilation complete. Elemental Affinity: Lightning acquired. New abilities unlocked. Caution: Further experimentation is required to master this power."** 

Leo sat up slowly, flexing his fingers. Sparks crackled between them, flickering like restless fireflies. A smirk tugged at the corners of his lips, despite the dull ache still radiating through his body. 

"So this is what it feels like to wield a dragon's power," he mused, standing up and stretching. "Not bad… not bad at all."