Chapter 10: A Reputation Grows
The morning sun barely pierced through the murky skies as Dikun Silver walked through the rusted gates of Bloodfang High. The school grounds were as chaotic as ever. Students lounged against graffiti-stained walls, the faint scent of smoke lingering in the air. Others stood in clusters, laughter and curses mingling as they eyed each other warily.
But this time, something was different.
Dikun could feel it. The weight of countless eyes following him. The murmurs. The whispers.
"That's him. The guy who fought Kai."
"They say he lasted the whole round."
"Graves won't like this."
His fight at the Iron Fist Gym had spread like wildfire. In a school ruled by fists and fear, surviving against someone like Kai was no small feat. Even those who hadn't witnessed it now knew his name.
> System Notification:
Recognition Gained: Bloodfang High (Notable)
But fame was a double-edged sword. Dikun wasn't blind to the glares — especially from those bearing the Iron Fangs emblem. The gang's black jackets with their distinctive snarling wolf design were scattered throughout the yard, and each member watched him like a predator eyeing wounded prey.
"Yo, Silver!"
Dikun turned. Rico jogged toward him, a grin plastered on his face. The wiry student had become a familiar presence, always lingering on the outskirts of trouble but never quite part of it.
"You're practically a celebrity now," Rico teased, slapping Dikun's shoulder. "First you beat Clint, now you go toe-to-toe with Kai? Man, you're either crazy or lucky."
"Maybe both," Dikun replied, though he couldn't help but smirk.
"But word is Graves isn't too happy," Rico continued, lowering his voice. "Iron Fangs don't take humiliation lightly. And beating one of their top guys? That's practically a declaration of war."
Dikun's jaw clenched. He knew this was coming. Graves wouldn't let the insult slide.
"Let them come," Dikun said firmly. "I'm not backing down."
Rico chuckled. "That's the spirit. But you're gonna need people watching your back."
> Objective Reminder:
- Recruit Your First Member (0/10 Members)
Dikun's eyes narrowed. He wasn't naive. Surviving Bloodfang High wasn't just about individual strength — it was about numbers. The Iron Fangs ruled because they commanded fear and loyalty.
If Dikun wanted to stand a chance, he'd need his own people.
---
A New Path
The day before, after the fight with Kai, Dikun had wasted no time. He knew if he wanted to be stronger, the gym was the only way. But Muay Thai alone wouldn't be enough. He needed balance — power, control, and sharp reflexes.
The Red Corner Gym had been the next step.
While the Iron Fist Gym specialized in Muay Thai, Red Corner was notorious for one thing — Boxing. It was rough, unpolished, and brutal. Perfect for what Dikun needed.
The gym was little more than a repurposed warehouse, the scent of sweat and metal lingering heavily. A row of heavy bags lined the cracked concrete floor, while a single battered boxing ring stood in the center. Fighters sparred relentlessly, their punches echoing through the space.
Dikun had stepped inside, and the system had responded instantly.
> System Notification:
You Have Entered a Specialized Gym — Red Corner Boxing.
Skill Unlocked: Boxing (F-Class)
Days of relentless training followed. Dikun's body ached, but he pushed through every punch, every drill. He worked his footwork, honed his jab, and unleashed powerful hooks. Coach Rami, the scarred ex-boxer, barked orders that left no room for hesitation.
> Skill Progression: Boxing (F-Class) — 80%
"Your form's getting sharper, Silver," Rami grunted, watching Dikun land blow after blow on the heavy bag. "But you're still stiff. A fighter isn't just muscle. It's instinct. Flow. You'll learn."
Dikun could feel it. Every punch came faster. Every movement flowed smoother. He was still far from a master, but the foundation was there. And that was all he needed.
---
Back to Bloodfang
Now, as Dikun moved through the school halls, the weight of his training gave him confidence. But he wasn't foolish. Strength alone wouldn't be enough.
Rico stood by his side, still grinning. "I'm not much of a fighter, but I've got connections. Word's spreading. People are curious about you."
Dikun nodded. "Then let them watch."
But before he could say more, a sharp whistle pierced the air.
Jax. One of the Iron Fangs' enforcers. The bruiser towered over the crowd, a fresh scar across his cheek — a reminder of the beating Clint had taken.
"Silver!" Jax sneered. "Graves wants a word."
Dikun met his glare without flinching. "Then he knows where to find me."
The crowd murmured. A challenge. A bold one.
Jax's grin widened. "He'll find you soon enough. Better be ready."
As the Iron Fang disappeared, Rico shook his head. "You really don't know how to keep your head down, do you?"
Dikun smirked. "Not my style."
> System Notification:
Event Triggered: Confrontation Imminent
Prepare Your Strength. Recruit Allies. Establish Your Gang.
Bloodfang High was watching. The Iron Fangs were moving.
And Dikun Silver? His fight had only just begun.
---
Next Chapter:
Dikun sets his sights on his first recruits. But in a school where loyalty is bought through fear, convincing others to stand with him will be no easy task. Meanwhile, Graves makes his own move, and the first true battle for power begins.