Secrets in the Smoke II

The revelation about Alexander hung in the air between Atenzi and Houdini, as tangible as the smoke from their ethereal cigarettes. Atenzi's mind raced, trying to comprehend the implications of what he'd just learned.

"But how?" Atenzi finally managed, his voice barely above a whisper. "How is it possible for one being, without supernatural abilities, to defeat such a diverse array of powerful entities?"

Houdini's eyes twinkled with a mixture of admiration and mischief. "Ah, now that's the real magic, isn't it? You see, our dear Alexander has honed his body and mind to the absolute peak of mortal potential.

He's mastered every form of combat known in Naaim and invented a few of his own. But more than that, he's a master strategist. He doesn't just fight; he outthinks his opponents."

Atenzi nodded slowly, beginning to understand. "So it's not just about physical prowess. It's about adapting, finding weaknesses, exploiting them."