Chapter 9: The Breaking Point

The dull ache in Dikun's ribs was a constant reminder of Kai's strength. Every step he took sent a wave of pain through his body, but he pushed through it. The fighters circling the mat whispered among themselves, eyes locked on the battle.

Kai grinned, barely winded. "You're tougher than you look."

Dikun didn't respond. Words wouldn't matter now. Every second in this fight was a test — a test of endurance, skill, and the will to stand. His body screamed for him to stop, but something deeper urged him forward.

The system had given him a head start, but this fight? It was all him.

> Skill Progression: Muay Thai (F-Class) — 20%

Vero's voice cut through the tension. "Keep your guard up, Silver!"

Kai moved again, a blur of motion. His foot lashed out with another powerful roundhouse kick. Dikun recognized the attack. It was the same move that had nearly broken him minutes ago.

But this time, he reacted.

"Read the movement. Control the distance."

Dikun shifted, stepping into Kai's range rather than away. The unexpected move threw Kai off. Instead of taking the full brunt of the kick, Dikun caught it on his forearm and twisted his body, absorbing the blow.

> Skill Progression: Muay Thai (F-Class) — 25%

Before Kai could recover, Dikun struck. His knee shot upward, aiming for Kai's ribs once again. But Kai was fast. He blocked the knee with his forearm and countered with a brutal elbow aimed at Dikun's temple.

The blow connected.

Dikun staggered, his vision blurring. The metallic taste of blood filled his mouth. A collective gasp echoed through the gym.

But he didn't fall.

> Health: 75%

Kai smirked, seeing Dikun still standing. "Still awake? Impressive."

Dikun wiped the blood from his lip. "I'm not done."

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Pushing Through the Pain

Kai didn't give him time to recover. He rushed forward, launching a swift jab followed by a low kick aimed at Dikun's leg. Dikun barely managed to block, the sting of the impact numbing his shin.

"I can't win if I keep reacting."

The realization struck hard. Kai controlled the fight. Every move Dikun made was in response to his opponent. If he wanted to stand a chance, he had to seize the momentum.

"Think, Dikun."

His mind raced. Kai was fast. Strong. Experienced. But even skilled fighters had patterns.

"He favors his right leg for kicks."

Dikun's eyes sharpened. The next time Kai lifted his leg for another kick, Dikun didn't dodge. Instead, he lunged forward, grabbing Kai's leg mid-motion. The impact still sent pain shooting through his arms, but he endured.

"Got you."

With a roar, Dikun twisted, sending Kai crashing to the mat. The crowd erupted in shock. Even Vero nodded in approval.

> Skill Progression: Muay Thai (F-Class) — 35%

Kai grunted as he quickly rolled to his feet. His grin was gone. "Not bad, Silver."

Dikun's breathing was ragged. He could feel his body reaching its limit, but the adrenaline kept him moving. One minute. That's all he needed to last.

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The Final Push

Kai rushed again, but Dikun was ready. He blocked the incoming elbow, his stance firm. Every step forward made his strikes sharper. His punches were no longer hesitant — each jab and knee carried purpose.

The system responded.

> Skill Progression: Muay Thai (F-Class) — 40%

Kai launched a powerful spinning kick. Dikun ducked under it, his instincts screaming at him to counter. His knee rose, aiming directly for Kai's stomach.

A solid hit.

Kai stumbled, gasping for air. Dikun followed up, landing a clean right elbow across Kai's jaw. The force spun Kai to the side.

The bell rang.

"Enough!" Vero's voice boomed.

The fight was over.

Dikun stood, his chest heaving. His fists trembled, not from fear, but from the overwhelming exhaustion. Kai wiped the sweat from his brow, shaking his head with a half-smile.

"You've got guts," Kai said, extending a hand. "Not many last a round with me."

Dikun hesitated, then clasped Kai's hand firmly.

"I'm just getting started," Dikun replied.

> System Notification:

Objective Complete: Survive One Round

Skill Progression: Muay Thai (F-Class) — 50%

Reputation Gained: Iron Fist Gym

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After the Fight

The gym slowly returned to its usual chaos. Fighters resumed their training, though several stole lingering glances at Dikun. Word would spread.

Vero clapped Dikun on the shoulder, his grip firm. "You've got potential, Silver. But one round means nothing. You'll be back tomorrow. And the next day. Until your body breaks or gets stronger."

Dikun nodded. "I'll be here."

Vero grunted in satisfaction. "Good. Don't waste your time. Strength isn't just about winning fights — it's about surviving them."

Kai smirked from the side. "And if you ever want a rematch, you know where to find me."

Dikun's lips curled into a faint smile. He didn't back down then, and he wouldn't now.

But as he left the gym, the system flashed once more.

> New Objective Unlocked:

- Establish Your Presence in Bloodfang High

- Recruit Your First Member (0/10 Members)

The Iron Fangs were watching. Bloodfang High was waiting.

And Dikun Silver? He was just getting started.

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Next Chapter: Dikun returns to school, but his growing reputation attracts unwanted attention. With the Iron Fangs plotting their next move, Dikun must decide his next step — continue his training, or start building the foundation of his own gang.