In the world of Solo Leveling, the protagonist, Sung Jinwoo, has the ability to extract the shadows of defeated enemies and make them his loyal soldiers. However, despite this remarkable power, there are instances where he chooses not to extract shadows, leaving fans questioning his decisions. One such case is Baran, the Monarch of White Flames and ruler of the Demon Castle.
Who Was Baran?
Baran was the main boss of the Demon Castle, a high-level dungeon that Sung Jinwoo had to clear as part of his journey to becoming stronger. Being one of the strongest enemies he had encountered up until that point, Baran posed a significant challenge. However, after a fierce battle, Jinwoo successfully defeated him and obtained several rewards, including increased abilities, gold, and unique items.
Why Didn’t Jinwoo Extract Baran’s Shadow?
There are multiple reasons why Sung Jinwoo may have chosen not to extract Baran’s shadow, even though he was a formidable opponent:
1. Baran’s Shadow May Have Been Too Weak
One of the main limitations of Jinwoo’s shadow extraction ability is that the strength of a shadow soldier depends on the corpse’s condition and strength at the time of death. While Baran was powerful, his defeat may have significantly weakened his corpse’s potential, making him an unworthy addition to Jinwoo’s army.
2. The Extraction Might Have Failed
Sung Jinwoo cannot extract every corpse he encounters. There are instances in the series where he attempts extraction, only for it to fail. This suggests that there are hidden rules regarding the ability, and it is possible that Baran was simply not a suitable candidate for resurrection.
3. Jinwoo Might Have Deemed Him Unnecessary
At this stage in the story, Sung Jinwoo had already amassed a powerful force of shadow soldiers, including Igris and Tusk, both of whom were incredibly strong. Considering this, he may have felt that adding Baran’s shadow was unnecessary, as he already had stronger soldiers at his disposal.
4. Baran’s Class Might Have Made Him Unworthy
Baran was a Monarch’s subordinate, meaning he was a high-ranking creature but not necessarily a strategic asset for Jinwoo. Unlike Tusk, who brought unique magical abilities, Baran may not have had any skills that would make his addition beneficial.
Could Baran Have Been a Valuable Ally?
While Baran was undeniably powerful, his value as a shadow soldier is debatable. Fighters like Beru and Bellion, who were later introduced, were vastly superior. Even Igris and Tusk had qualities that made them more useful to Jinwoo’s army. In hindsight, Baran might not have contributed much in the long run.
Conclusion
Although Baran was a formidable opponent, there are several likely reasons why Sung Jinwoo did not extract his shadow. Either Baran was too weak after death, Jinwoo deemed him unnecessary, or his extraction simply failed. Whatever the case, the decision did not hinder Jinwoo’s journey, as he continued to grow stronger and recruit even more powerful allies.
FAQs
Q: Could Sung Jinwoo have extracted Baran if he wanted to?
A: Possibly, but the extraction might have failed due to hidden restrictions placed on his ability.
Q: Was Baran among the strongest enemies Jinwoo defeated?
A: At the time of the battle in the Demon Castle, Baran was one of the strongest enemies Jinwoo had fought. However, he later faced even stronger foes.
Q: Would Baran have been stronger than Igris or Tusk?
A: Likely not. Tusk had powerful magic, and Igris had exceptional sword skills. Baran, as a shadow, might not have surpassed either of them.
Q: Does Jinwoo always extract shadows from strong enemies?
A: No, Jinwoo only extracts shadows when he deems them useful or when the extraction is successful. He sometimes chooses to ignore strong opponents.
Q: Is Baran a significant character in Solo Leveling?
A: While he is an important boss in the Demon Castle arc, his role in the larger story is limited compared to other Monarchs and enemies.
