Chapter 27: The Whispering Shadows
The academy's courtyard was quiet in the early morning, the dew glistening like crystals on the manicured grass. The world seemed calm, almost tranquil, but the MC knew better. Beneath the serene façade, a storm brewed. His recent integration of the Shard of Eternity with the Eye of Origin had opened a door to immense power, but it also painted a target on his back.
The system's notification from the previous night echoed in his mind:
New abilities unlocked: Dimensional Insight, Temporal Flux.
He hadn't yet explored what these abilities could do, but he felt their presence—a hum of energy within his core, waiting to be unleashed.
Shadow Fang trailed behind him, its sleek form blending seamlessly into the dim light. The bond between them felt stronger, as if the integration had deepened their connection. Fang's eyes were sharper, almost intelligent, and its aura carried an edge that hadn't been there before.
"Fang," the MC said, his voice low, "we'll need to test these new powers. I don't want any surprises if things go wrong."
Fang let out a low growl, as if in agreement.
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The Testing Grounds
The MC led Fang to the academy's training grounds, a sprawling area filled with enchanted dummies, obstacle courses, and combat arenas. At this hour, it was deserted—just the way he wanted it. He activated the training field, the dummies coming to life with a flicker of magic.
"System, activate Dimensional Insight," he commanded.
A rush of energy surged through him, and his vision shifted. The world around him transformed; layers of reality peeled back, revealing hidden structures and pathways. He could see faint trails of energy left behind by other students who had trained here, their movements etched into the fabric of space.
"Incredible," he murmured, stepping forward. He noticed weak points in the dummies' magical constructs, glowing like beacons.
"Shadow Fang, attack the glowing joints," he instructed.
Fang lunged with precision, its claws tearing through the dummy's weak points. The magical construct collapsed instantly, its core exposed.
"System, what else can Dimensional Insight do?"
Dimensional Insight allows the user to perceive spatial anomalies, energy flows, and hidden elements within the environment. It can also reveal weaknesses in enemies and structures.
The possibilities were staggering.
Next, he activated Temporal Flux. This time, the sensation was different—a disorienting lurch, as if the world had slowed down. He threw a dagger at a dummy, watching as it moved in slow motion.
"So, it manipulates time," he said, adjusting his stance. Temporal Flux would be a game-changer in combat, giving him the edge he desperately needed.
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An Unwanted Audience
Just as he began to relax, the hair on the back of his neck stood on end. Someone was watching him.
"Fang, alert," he whispered. The creature stiffened, its ears twitching.
The MC turned slowly, his gaze scanning the shadows. A figure stepped out from behind a pillar—a young woman with sharp features and fiery red hair. She wore the academy's combat uniform, but the insignia on her shoulder marked her as a member of the Elite Division.
"Impressive," she said, her voice smooth yet laced with an undertone of challenge. "I've been keeping an eye on you."
The MC's mind raced. Why now? Who is she?
"I don't recall inviting spectators," he replied, his tone guarded.
She smirked, crossing her arms. "You're not exactly subtle. The way you've been skulking around, keeping to yourself, it's suspicious. And now, seeing your... unique abilities, I'd say my instincts were right."
He stepped back slightly, his muscles tense. "What do you want?"
"Relax," she said, raising her hands in mock surrender. "I'm not here to turn you in. I'm here to offer you a deal."
The MC narrowed his eyes. "What kind of deal?"
She stepped closer, her aura exuding confidence. "There's a tournament coming up—The Trials of Dominion. It's open to all students, but the Elite Division is expected to dominate, as always. I want you to join my team."
He blinked, taken aback. "Why me?"
"Because you're different," she said simply. "I don't know what your secret is, but I can tell you're hiding something powerful. And I want that power on my side."
---
The Trials of Dominion
The MC had heard whispers about the Trials—a series of brutal challenges designed to test combat skill, strategy, and teamwork. The winners would gain prestige, resources, and access to restricted areas of the academy.
"What's in it for me?" he asked, his voice measured.
She grinned. "Aside from the obvious rewards? Protection. You're attracting attention, whether you like it or not. Being on my team will shield you from... unwanted scrutiny."
It was a tempting offer, but it also felt like a trap. "I'll think about it," he said.
She nodded, her expression unreadable. "Fair enough. But don't take too long. The Trials start in two weeks." With that, she turned and walked away, her presence lingering like a flame that refused to be extinguished.
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A New Threat
That night, the MC sat in his room, staring at the Eye of Origin. The events of the day replayed in his mind—the power he had gained, the mysterious girl, and the looming Trials.
"System, what's the likelihood of being exposed during the Trials?"
High. The nature of the challenges will force participants to reveal their abilities. Concealment will be difficult.
He sighed, leaning back against the wall. "Then I need to prepare. If I'm going to enter this tournament, I have to be ready for anything."
Shadow Fang growled softly, as if echoing his determination.
But as the night deepened, a strange sensation washed over him. The Eye of Origin pulsed faintly, and a new notification appeared:
Dimensional anomaly detected. Source: Northwest quadrant of the academy.
His blood ran cold. Another anomaly?
He grabbed his mask and weapons, his resolve hardening. "Let's go, Fang. It seems the academy's secrets won't stay hidden for long."