The Path to Power

Ethan stood before the mirror, studying his reflection carefully.

For years, he had been overlooked—a frail, sickly child unworthy of his family's name.

But now?

His face was delicate, his dark hair soft and wavy, a trait he had inherited from his late mother. Yet it was his deep purplish-blue eyes—the same piercing gaze as his father's—that stood out the most. They were no longer dull and lifeless.

Now, they carried a spark of something greater. Determination. Power. Purpose. The body was still weak, but that would change. And it would start today.

Ethan sat cross-legged on the wooden floor, exhaling deeply. His mind focused inward, calling upon the Heavenly Demon Magical King System. A translucent blue screen flickered into existence before him.

[Heavenly Demon Magical King System]

Name: Ethan Baron / Cheonma Wang (천마왕)Synchronization: 55%Physical Strength: Weak (Improving)Martial Arts: Sealed (Unlockable)Magic Ability: Below Average (Potential Detected)

System Functions: Inventory (인벤토리): A dimensional storage capable of holding non-living objects. Appraisal (감정): Allows Ethan to analyze the properties and weaknesses of people, objects, and magic. Synthesis (합성): Merges two or more items to create a stronger or unique result. Demon King's Insight (마왕의 통찰): Detects emotions, hidden intentions, and weaknesses. Basic Body Reinforcement (기초 체강화): Gradually strengthens Ethan's physique.

Ethan's eyes gleamed.

This was far beyond what he had expected.

His past life as Cheonma Wang had given him overwhelming martial skill, but this system gave him something even greater—endless potential.

Ethan reached toward his desk and picked up a small dagger. He focused on the Inventory function.

[Store.]

The dagger vanished into thin air.

Ethan opened the Inventory Menu and saw it inside—a neatly organized grid-like space that existed outside of time.

With a simple thought, he called it back.

The dagger reappeared in his palm instantly.

Ethan smirked.

Perfect.

He turned to the old wooden chair beside his bed and activated Appraisal.

A faint blue glow surrounded the chair before text appeared before his eyes.

[Object: Wooden Chair]Material: Aged Oak Durability: 32% (Weak)History: Handcrafted by a servant three decades ago. Recently reinforced. Weakness: Brittle legs.

Ethan narrowed his eyes.

It even showed minor details like reinforcement work.

What about people?

Ethan glanced at the door. He could sense the presence of a servant outside—one of the household maids. He activated Appraisal again.

[Name: Maria Lennox]Age: 45Emotional State: Indifferent, slightly irritated. Strength: Below Average Magic Affinity: None Loyalty: Low

Ethan's smirk widened.

Not only could he see her strength and magic affinity, but he could even sense her emotions and level of loyalty.

Appraisal would be invaluable.

Now came the most intriguing function—Synthesis.

Ethan opened Inventory and withdrew the dagger along with a small silver ring from his bedside drawer.

Both objects hovered before him as he activated Synthesis.

[Choose Synthesis Mode:]

Basic Fusion: Merges materials with minor enhancements. Advanced Synthesis: High-level crafting with customized results.

For now, Ethan chose Basic Fusion.

The dagger and ring glowed bright red before melting into each other, forming a new weapon.

[Result: Shadowfang Dagger]Material: Enhanced Silver & Iron Durability: 85% (High)Special Effect: Conceals user's presence when wielded.

Ethan examined the blade.

It looked the same as the original dagger, but when he held it, his presence naturally faded. Even the maid outside the door shifted uncomfortably, sensing something unnatural.

Ethan's heart raced.

This system was insane.

With it, he could create weapons, enhance armor, and even experiment with rare materials.

A new plan formed in his mind.

Planning His Next Move

Ethan closed his eyes, organizing his priorities.

Strengthen his body – The coming-of-age ceremony was less than a year away. He needed to improve fast. Unlock his martial arts – His techniques from Murim were still sealed. He had to find a way to regain them. Gather resources – With Synthesis, Inventory, and Appraisal, he could forge his own path, independent of his family. Identify allies and enemies – His Demon King's Insight would help him separate the useful from the worthless.

Ethan opened his eyes.

For ten years, he had been nothing.

Now, he had the tools to rise above all of them.

And this was only the beginning.