Training

The next day, Vardan and Jay arrived at the training facility for their first official day as D-rank killers.

From the outside, the building looked like an abandoned warehouse—windows cracked, paint peeling—but inside was a different story. High-tech equipment, obstacle courses, and a massive virtual combat simulator filled the space.

Jay's eyes widened as he stepped inside. "This looks like something out of a spy movie."

Vardan smirked. "I thought you wanted to quit yesterday?"

"Yeah… but this is cool," Jay admitted, practically vibrating with excitement.

The other recruits were already there. Ken was stretching so dramatically it looked like he was warming up for the Olympics. Andy stood near a weight rack, casually curling dumbbells the size of motorcycles. Akio flexed in front of the mirror, whispering sweet nothings to his reflection while trying to catch Lily's eye—who was actively pretending he didn't exist. Leo, as expected, leaned against the wall, radiating "main character energy" as he brooded silently.

Suddenly, Oliver walked in, clipboard in hand, his eyes scanning the room like a hawk.

"Alright, listen up. This isn't school, and I'm not your babysitter. Your job is to survive and get stronger. If you can't handle it, don't expect mercy."

Jay hesitantly raised his hand. "Um… excuse me, but—"

"No questions." Oliver cut him off immediately. "Now, let's get started."

The wall screen behind Oliver flickered to life, displaying ten large circles arranged like a battlefield.

"Your first task is simple. Step into one of these circles. If someone else steps in… you fight. Winner stays. Loser gets sent back to basic training."

Akio's eyes lit up. "I like the sound of that."

Ken folded his arms, cracking his neck dramatically. "So, basically a battle royale?"

"Exactly," Oliver replied. "Don't hold back."

Jay tugged on Vardan's sleeve nervously. "I'm going to die, aren't I?"

"Not if you stick with me." Vardan stepped confidently into the nearest circle, motioning for Jay to follow.

Akio hopped into the circle across from them, flashing his signature cocky grin. "Looks like we're fighting first. Hope you're ready."

Vardan sighed. "I'm always ready."

As the countdown began, Akio took a flashy stance. When it hit zero, he lunged at Vardan with the grace of someone who'd watched way too many action movies. His roundhouse kick looked impressive… until Vardan side-stepped effortlessly. Akio's leg whiffed through the air.

"Hey! Stand still!" Akio grunted, stumbling slightly.

Vardan chuckled. "You're supposed to hit me, not dance around."

Akio swung wildly again. Vardan ducked and gave him a light jab to the ribs. Akio yelped, dramatically rolling across the mat.

"Ow! I slipped… on purpose," Akio groaned.

Jay clapped lightly. "Nice one, Master."

From the sidelines, Oliver facepalmed. "This is painful to watch."

"Next," Oliver muttered, shaking his head.

The next few rounds followed the same pattern. Vardan handled every opponent with ease, including Andy, who apologized every time he tried to punch.

"Sorry, I really don't want to hurt you," Andy mumbled while throwing half-hearted punches.

"You're good, Andy. No hard feelings." Vardan smiled.

Then it was Jay's turn. He nervously stepped into the circle, only for Mira to join him. She cracked her knuckles, grinning mischievously.

"I—I can't hit a girl!" Jay stammered, eyes wide.

Mira smirked. "Don't worry. I'll hit you instead."

Before Jay could react, Mira swept his legs, sending him sprawling onto the floor.

Vardan laughed but then froze when he noticed something strange. Jay's eyes narrowed, and that eerie smile spread across his face—the same one from the survival exam.

Oh no… not this again.

Jay sprang to his feet with surprising speed and rushed at Mira. His movements were sharp, precise, and… unsettling. Vardan quickly stepped forward.

"Jay! Hold back!" Vardan shouted.

Jay skidded to a stop, snapping out of his trance. He blinked in confusion, scratching his head. "Huh? What just happened?"

Mira, slightly frazzled, backed up cautiously. "Uh… is your friend okay?"

Vardan sighed. "He's… working on it."

Mira didn't let her guard down, though. She took the chance to knock Jay to the ground while he was distracted.

Jay groaned, rubbing his head. "Ow… yeah, I definitely lost that one."

Vardan extended a hand, pulling him up. "At least you didn't go full psycho mode."

"Is that what we're calling it now?" Jay grinned. "I kinda like it."

Oliver crossed his arms, eyeing Jay thoughtfully. "You've got potential, kid. But control it, or you won't last long."

Jay saluted half-heartedly. "Yes, sir."

Vardan patted his shoulder. "Let's focus on staying alive first."

As they left the facility, Jay leaned toward Vardan.

"Do you think I could get cooler powers than you someday?"

"Sure, right after you learn to dodge."

"Harsh but fair."