The cafeteria was abuzz with rumors. Everyone knew what the next step was. To rise in power, Jihan would have to challenge one of the Four Kings, the ruling elite of the school.
"Who's he going to target first?"
"My money's on Kang Minsu. He controls the east block, and his gang is ruthless."
"No way, Minsu's too much. Maybe Park Jisoo? She's more strategic, but still dangerous."
Jihan ignored the whispers as he made his way through the halls. He already knew who his first target was.
Kim Hojun – The Iron Fist.
A towering figure with a reputation built on raw strength. Hojun ruled the north sector with an iron grip, undefeated in one-on-one combat.
Jihan smirked. Perfect.
The system chimed again.
Bonus Mission Activated: Humiliate the King in Front of His Followers.
Reward: Advanced Combat Skill – "Phantom Strike."
He clenched his fists, excitement bubbling within him. It was time to send a message.
---
Hojun's gang was gathered in their usual hangout, the gymnasium, when Jihan kicked open the doors.
Gasps of surprise. Then laughter.
"You got some guts walking in here alone," Hojun sneered, cracking his knuckles. "What do you want, newbie?"
Jihan stepped forward, his Pressure Aura rolling off him in waves. The laughter died instantly.
"I'm here for you, Hojun." His voice was cold. "You're in my way."
Silence.
Then, Hojun grinned. "Heh. Alright then. Let's see what you got."
The gym erupted in cheers as the two fighters stepped forward. The battle for dominance had begun.
---
Hojun lunged first, his fist a blur as it shot toward Jihan's face. The impact was enough to shatter concrete, but Jihan wasn't there. He sidestepped at the last moment, his instincts sharpened by the system's enhancements.
Dodge Successful.
Hojun's eyes widened for a fraction of a second before he swung again, this time aiming for Jihan's ribs. Jihan deflected it with his forearm, the force sending vibrations up his arm.
He grinned. So, this is the power of a King.
But Jihan was no longer just a pawn in this game. He activated Pressure Aura at full force, the weight of his presence making Hojun's subordinates shudder. Even Hojun himself faltered for a brief moment.
Jihan capitalized on that hesitation.
He launched himself forward, his fist glowing slightly as he executed a Phantom Strike—a skill he hadn't even earned yet, but one he knew was coming. His fist connected with Hojun's stomach, sinking deep.
Hojun gasped, stumbling back, his body doubling over. The entire gym fell silent.
Jihan stepped back, his voice calm but laced with dominance. "Kneel."
For the first time in the school's history, one of the Four Kings fell to his knees.