Chapter 34: Introducing Liana

As Xavier and Liana made their way to the med bay, the two engaged in light conversation. Xavier shared stories about his life at the academy, his friends, and most notably, his fiancée, Jessica. Liana listened intently, but when he mentioned Jessica, she felt a pang in her heart that she couldn't quite explain.

With a mischievous smile, she teased, "So, Xavier, if Jessica is your fiancée, does that mean you're completely off-limits? Or would you ever consider having two wives?"

Xavier chuckled at her attempt to flirt but kept his tone light. "One is enough to handle, trust me. Jessica would probably burn me alive if she heard you say that."

Liana laughed, though part of her wished he had answered differently. Despite her growing feelings, she respected his loyalty to Jessica.

As the two entered the med bay, Xavier's friends and Jessica were gathered together, clearly waiting for him. The sight of Xavier walking in with a stranger—both visibly injured—immediately drew their concern.

Jessica was the first to speak, her eyes narrowing slightly as she took in the scene. "Xavier, who's this? And what happened to you two?"

Eddie and Felix chimed in, their expressions a mix of worry and curiosity. "Yeah, you look like you've been through a war," Eddie said. "What's going on?"

Mara, ever the calm one, gestured for Xavier and Liana to sit down. "Take a breath, both of you. Then tell us everything."

Xavier sighed as he helped Liana to a chair. "This is Liana," he began. "I found her imprisoned in a hidden chamber inside a mountain while investigating some suspicious markings I found. She was tied up by members of the Crimson Shadow Cult."

At the mention of the cult, everyone's faces grew serious. "Crimson Shadow again?" Jessica said, her voice sharp with anger. "What did they want with her?"

"I'm not entirely sure," Xavier admitted, glancing at Liana, who nodded for him to continue. "But they were holding her captive for a reason. After freeing her, we were ambushed by a group of warriors, led by Lord Voss, an Earth-rank fighter tied to the cult. It wasn't easy, but we managed to escape."

Jessica's expression softened as she looked at Liana. "You've been through a lot. I'm glad Xavier found you."

Liana met Jessica's gaze and gave a small smile, though the earlier sting of learning about their relationship lingered. "Thank you. I owe Xavier my life."

As the group asked more questions, Jessica's focus remained on Liana. Though her words were kind, there was an undercurrent of protectiveness in her tone. "If you're staying here, we'll make sure you're safe. The academy is the best place for you to recover and figure out your next steps."

Liana nodded. "I'm grateful for the offer. And… I'll try to help in any way I can."

Xavier noticed the subtle tension between the two women but decided not to address it. Instead, he turned to his friends. "I also have some news. Voss let something slip during our battle. The cult is preparing to resurrect someone—Master Derrick Fang. We need to be ready for whatever's coming."

The group exchanged worried looks, but their determination was clear. They were in this together, no matter the odds.

After the conversation, Jessica insisted on helping bandage Xavier's remaining wounds, while Mara and Felix tended to Liana. As the med bay settled into a calm atmosphere, Xavier couldn't help but feel the weight of his responsibilities growing heavier. Yet, seeing his friends and allies around him gave him strength. Whatever the Crimson Shadow Cult had planned, he would face it head-on—with Jessica, Liana, and his friends by his side.

As Xavier prepared himself for the upcoming outer core tournament, he decided to use the next couple of days wisely. His time was split between training with his friends, honing his skills further, and checking in on Jessica in the med bay. Each visit, he brought her flowers or small tokens to brighten her day, updating her on his progress and encouraging her to rest and heal.

One afternoon, while walking through the academy's bustling courtyard, he overheard a group of warriors loudly discussing the academy's ranking list.

"I still don't get it," one warrior grumbled. "How does Xavier York, a first-year, rank second on the list? It's not fair to those of us who've been here for years!"

"Right," another chimed in. "He's strong, sure, but no first-year should be ranked that high. Greenwood is clearly untouchable at the top, but Xavier? It's ridiculous!"

Intrigued by their conversation, Xavier approached the bulletin board where the academy's rankings were displayed. A crowd of students had gathered, each one craning their necks to read the names listed. With his height and sharp vision, it didn't take him long to spot the names on the board:

1. Nathan Greenwood – The formidable Earth-rank warrior Xavier had encountered weeks ago. His reputation as an untouchable powerhouse still echoed through the academy.

2. Xavier York – His name shone brightly in second place, drawing murmurs and glares from the students around him.

3. Jessica Vice – Despite her injuries, her strength and accomplishments had earned her the third spot on the list.

4. Liana Ardent – Newly introduced to the academy, her Earth-rank status had immediately placed her high on the list.

5. Darius Thorn – A senior student known for his mastery of fire-based techniques.

6. Mara Velis – Her consistent improvement and noble-rank prowess earned her recognition.

7. Felix Grant – Another of Xavier's close friends, his rank reflected his steady growth.

8. Eddie Sharpe – The last of Xavier's friends, rounding out the group of rising talents.

9. Tobias Kain – A brash warrior who specialized in dual-wielding weapons.

10. Sylvia Greaves – Known for her precision and speed, her inclusion on the list came as no surprise.

As Xavier read the rankings, he felt the weight of every name above and below him. He couldn't help but smirk at the murmurs around him.

"I guess some people don't like competition," he muttered under his breath, drawing a few irritated glares from the nearby crowd.

The whispers only grew louder as he turned and walked away, his mind already focused on the tournament ahead. Nathan Greenwood might hold the top spot for now, but Xavier was determined to prove he deserved his rank—and perhaps even more. Xavier entered the med bay with a beaming smile, excited to share the news with Jessica. "You're officially ranked fourth now, Jessica Vice," he said, pride evident in his voice. Jessica's eyes widened in surprise before a warm smile spread across her face. "Thank you for telling me, Xavier. I couldn't have made it this far without your support."

They talked for a while, Jessica expressing her gratitude for his unwavering care during her recovery. As their conversation flowed, Xavier's eyes grew serious. "The tournament is tomorrow, and I can't have you at anything less than your best. Come with me."

Jessica followed him, curious about his intentions, and they soon arrived at a spiritual chamber. Xavier handed her one of the precious earth-grade pills from his dwindling supply. "This should help you break through to stabilize your earth-rank foundation. You've earned it."

Jessica held the pill delicately, her eyes misting slightly. "Xavier, you didn't have to—"

"I want to," Xavier interrupted. "You've worked so hard, and I know you'll push past your limits with this."

She smiled warmly, placing a hand on his cheek. "Thank you, my love. I'll do my best to make you proud."

As Jessica entered the chamber and began her cultivation, Xavier lingered outside for a moment, his thoughts racing. With only ten earth-grade pills left and the tournament looming, he vowed to use the remaining time wisely to prepare. He couldn't afford to lose focus—not with the challenges ahead.

Xavier left knowing Jessica would breakthrough in a matter of time. He felt as though he was forgetting about something but the crimson cult was his main focus not concerned with smaller matters. Xavier arrived to his quarters and laid down to go to sleep. 

In his dreamlike state, Xavier sat cross-legged in the vast ethereal void, facing Elior, the manifestation of his system. The glowing, humanoid figure radiated an ancient aura as it responded to Xavier's questions.

Elior's voice echoed, carrying a tone of foreboding wisdom. "The Crimson Shadow Cult is an ancient and malevolent organization. Their existence is rooted in darkness, their ultimate goal being the resurrection of their fallen leader, Derrick Fang. They are ruthless, using blood rituals and forbidden techniques to expand their power. You've already encountered their emblem, their bases, and their fanatical loyalty to their cause."

Xavier leaned forward, his brows furrowed. "What kind of threat does this Derrick Fang pose if they succeed in bringing him back?"

Elior paused before continuing, "Derrick Fang was a Void God, a being of unparalleled strength who ascended beyond the mortal plane. However, he was also a tyrant who waged wars against entire realms, leaving death and destruction in his wake. His fall came only after a coalition of ancient sects and divine beings banded together to seal him. Even now, fragments of his will corrupt those who seek his power. If resurrected, Derrick Fang would not just threaten your academy but the entire world."

Xavier felt a chill run through him. "Why do they think I'm the one to resurrect him? Lord Voss mentioned it before he fled."

"Because of your dragon bloodline," Elior explained. "The Crimson Shadow Cult has deciphered ancient prophecies that hint at a warrior with a rare bloodline awakening the Void God. Your power, though noble, resonates with energies they can twist for their own purposes. Whether you intend to or not, your bloodline makes you a key to unlocking Derrick Fang's seal."

Xavier clenched his fists, determination burning in his eyes. "So that's why they're after me. I won't let them succeed. Is there anything else I should know?"

Elior nodded. "The cult operates in shadows, spreading their influence subtly. Their leaders are powerful and cunning, and their bases are protected by dangerous traps and loyal followers. They will stop at nothing to complete their goal. To confront them, you must grow stronger, cultivate your allies, and uncover their plans before it's too late."

Taking a deep breath, Xavier asked, "Is there any way to sever their connection to me and the prophecy?"

"Perhaps," Elior said after a moment of thought. "But such knowledge is ancient and buried deep. To find answers, you'll need to seek out the wisdom of those who fought against Derrick Fang in the past—records or artifacts left behind by the sects who sealed him. Be cautious, Xavier. The journey ahead will test every aspect of your resolve."

Xavier nodded firmly, his purpose clearer than ever. "I'll be ready. Thank you, Elior."

As the dreamlike state began to fade, Elior's final words echoed, "Prepare well, Xavier. The Crimson Shadow watches your every move."

Xavier awoke in his quarters, the moonlight filtering through his window. The weight of the upcoming tournament and the cult's threat pressed heavily on him, but he was resolute. He wouldn't let the cult manipulate him or harm those he cared for.