Chapter 5: The Hero’s Struggle

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A Battle of Fates

The air crackled with tension as Darian Albrecht, the empire's first Chosen Hero, stood before Lucian Valcrest.

Golden light swirled around Darian's sword, his divine blessing amplifying his speed and power.

Lucian, by contrast, held his black rapier with a casual elegance, his crimson eyes gleaming.

The duel was no longer just a test.

It was a clash of fate itself.

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A Hero's Charge

Darian exploded forward, his blade glowing with divine might.

Lucian remained still.

Then—at the last possible moment—he moved.

[Foresight Activated]

Lucian effortlessly sidestepped, his rapier flicking toward Darian's exposed side.

But Darian's instincts screamed.

He twisted, barely parrying. Sparks flew.

Lucian's smirk deepened.

'Good. He's not completely useless.'

But Darian's eyes were filled with disbelief.

'How did he read my movement so easily?'

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A False Struggle

Lucian allowed himself to be pushed back, feigning struggle.

The audience saw a close fight.

But Lucian knew the truth.

Darian was strong. But his strength was raw, unrefined. He fought with passion, but not experience.

Lucian? He had both.

Still, he let Darian believe he had the upper hand.

Because that was the key to his plan.

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The Fatal Blow

Darian saw an opening—or so he thought.

He lunged, pouring his energy into a decisive strike.

Lucian's smirk vanished.

Now.

Lucian sidestepped again, his rapier darting forward—stopping just an inch from Darian's throat.

Silence.

The crowd froze.

Darian stood there, panting, his sword frozen mid-swing. He had lost.

Lucian lowered his blade. "Yield."

Darian gritted his teeth, his hands trembling. But he had no choice.

"I… yield."

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The Beginning of Doubt

As the duel ended, murmurs filled the crowd.

The Hero had lost.

Lucian offered Darian his hand. "You fought well."

Darian hesitated. But before he could refuse, the Emperor spoke.

"An excellent match." His gaze lingered on Lucian. "Lucian Valcrest, it seems you are even more capable than I had heard."

Lucian smiled. "It is my duty to serve the empire."

He could feel Annalise watching him from afar.

And Darian?

Darian stared at him with something new.

Not just frustration.

Doubt.

Lucian turned away, hiding his smirk.

The first step was complete.

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