Voidbound Ascension

The battle had ended, but its echoes still reverberated through the Academy.

Leon stood at the edge of the arena, his body aching, his breath heavy. The crowd had long since dispersed, yet the weight of the encounter with Tharion, the Steel Tyrant, still clung to him.

He hadn't won.

But he hadn't lost either.

Tharion had acknowledged him—a sign that Leon was no longer just another unranked contender.

However, this was merely the first step.

The Three Tyrants had noticed him.

And that meant the real trials were about to begin.

The Academy Reacts – A New Power Emerges

News of Leon's battle with Tharion spread like wildfire.

By nightfall, students whispered in hushed tones.

"He forced Tharion back. No one's done that in years.""He's unranked and already fighting the top elite? Insane.""If he keeps this up… will he challenge the Tyrants?"

The attention was unavoidable.

Yet Leon cared little for rumors.

He was focused on one thing—mastering his Supreme Path.

[Selene]: "Your combat synchronization has increased by 23%. Supreme Adaptation is evolving."

Leon smirked. "Good. Because I'll need it."

The First Invitation – A Faction Seeks Leon

Leon was making his way through the darkened halls of the Academy when a figure stepped into his path.

Tall, draped in an abyssal cloak, their aura was controlled—yet powerful.

Leon tensed. This wasn't an ordinary student.

The figure spoke, their voice smooth. "Leon Valeheart."

Leon folded his arms. "Who's asking?"

The figure smirked. "I represent the Phantom Dominion."

Leon narrowed his eyes. He had heard whispers of this faction—an elite group that operated within the shadows of the Academy.

They weren't just students.

They were spies, assassins, and warlords in the making.

And now, they had taken an interest in him.

"The Academy is a battlefield," the figure continued. "And in battle, one does not fight alone. Join us, and we can offer you protection… and power."

Leon exhaled slowly.

He wasn't surprised. After defeating Kaelion and holding his ground against Tharion, it was only a matter of time before the factions made their moves.

But he wasn't in a rush to make alliances.

Not yet.

"I appreciate the offer," Leon said, meeting the figure's gaze. "But I don't follow. I lead."

The figure chuckled. "A true leader knows when to take advantage of opportunity. Think it over, Valeheart. You may not have a choice soon."

And just like that, the figure disappeared into the shadows.

Leon frowned. Things were moving faster than expected.

The Academy's Next Trial – A Challenge is Issued

The next morning, a notice was posted across the Academy grounds.

Academy Combat Challenge – Open DuelLeon Valeheart vs. Darius the Shadow Fang

Leon raised an eyebrow as he read the announcement.

The third-ranked Tyrant.

His name had finally reached the ears of the true elite.

A duel with Darius meant more than just a fight.

It was a message.

Someone was trying to test him.

Or eliminate him.

Karos, who had been watching from the side, chuckled. "They're wasting no time, huh?"

Leon exhaled. "Good. I was getting bored."

Meanwhile… Celeste Faces a Deadly Trial

Far from the Academy, deep within the Abyss, Celeste stood before an ancient gate.

She had fought her way here, defeating monstrous creatures and deadly guardians.

But this?

This was different.

The air itself vibrated with power, the presence beyond the gate watching her.

"You seek entry?"

The voice came from nowhere.

Celeste clenched her fists. "I do."

"Then prove your worth."

The gate rumbled.

And from the darkness beyond, a challenger emerged.

A figure draped in crimson armor, their aura radiating pure abyssal energy.

Celeste's true battle had begun.

Leon vs. Darius – The Arena Awakens

Leon stepped into the massive coliseum, his mind sharp, his body prepared.

Darius was already waiting.

The Shadow Fang, known for his deadly speed and lethal precision, stood motionless. His aura was unreadable, his golden eyes watching Leon like a predator studying prey.

Elaris, the Headmistress, observed from above.

"Begin."

The air exploded.

Darius vanished.

Leon's Supreme Instinct screamed.

This battle was unlike anything before.

Because Darius wasn't just fast.

He was everywhere.