Chapter 8: Shawn’s Determination

The morning sun cast a golden hue over the XO Academy training grounds as students returned from the Rank E Survival Test. Some limped, others carried new XO Cards in their hands, their hard-earned victories glowing with energy.

Free and Shawn stood near the entrance, both exhausted yet triumphant.

"I can't believe you captured that thing," Shawn said, shaking his head. "That was no normal Rank E Beast."

Free grinned. "I got lucky."

Shawn scoffed. "That wasn't luck. You controlled Shadow Fang like it was an extension of yourself."

Free shrugged but said nothing. Deep inside, he felt something had changed. His connection with XO Beasts was different from the others. But before he could dwell on it, Instructor Darius' booming voice cut through the murmurs of the students.

"Listen up! You've completed your first test, but that was just the beginning. From now on, you will be placed into rank divisions. Those who excel will rise through the academy, while the weak… will be expelled."

A few students paled at the word expelled.

"The rankings start at Rank E and go all the way to Rank S. Your first goal is to rise from Rank E by proving your strength in battles and missions. Only those who reach Rank B or higher will be considered for elite training."

Shawn clenched his fists. "That's our goal. We need to rise fast."

Free nodded. "Then let's train harder."

That night, while most students rested, Shawn stayed behind in the combat hall. He summoned his panther, practicing new attack combinations.

"I won't let Free leave me behind," Shawn muttered. "We'll rise together."

His determination burned brighter than ever.