Chapter 3: Obsidian Barracks, Trial of Chains

The Obsidian Barracks were nothing like Kael expected.

Built into the side of a jagged mountain, the structure looked more like a fortress carved from shadow. Its walls pulsed faintly with demonic energy, and screams echoed in the distance—some from pain, others from something far worse.

Kael stood at the entrance, shirtless, still bearing the glowing servant brand on his chest. Around him were dozens of other demons—servants like him. Most looked far more monstrous: scaled, horned, clawed, some even headless. All of them looked ready to kill.

"You're the Duchess's new pet?" one of them spat, a hulking brute with molten skin and eyes like embers.

Kael didn't answer. He could feel it—his instincts were sharper now. Every movement, every breath, every heartbeat around him was clear in his mind.

"I'm Karnok," the brute growled, stepping forward. "Top of the barracks. I don't care who owns you. In here, rank is earned through blood."

Kael met his eyes.

"I've died once already," he said. "You think I'm scared of bleeding?"

Karnok snarled and swung a massive fist.

Kael moved—not consciously, not even trained. His body reacted on its own.

He ducked, grabbed Karnok's arm, and twisted.

With a sickening crack, the demon crashed into the ground.

Silence.

The others stared. Then someone laughed. Then more. It wasn't mocking—more like excitement. A new challenger had appeared.

A black-armored demon stepped forward from the shadows. His face was covered, but his voice was cold and authoritative.

"You've made your entrance, human," the instructor said. "Let's see if you survive the Trial of Chains."

Trial…?

Chains burst from the ground around Kael, wrapping around his limbs and dragging him forward toward a pit in the center of the courtyard. Flames erupted from below.

"You want to live in the barracks? You fight. No weapons. No rules. Only one climbs out."

Kael glanced down.

Two other servants were already inside—monsters, both easily twice his size.

The pit closed behind him.

One of them roared and lunged.

Kael moved on instinct. His body surged with strength—not human strength, but something darker. He spun, dodged, and drove his fist into the beast's gut. The impact sent a shockwave through the pit.

The second came from behind.

Too fast to turn. So he dropped low and let his elbow fly up—

Crack!

The second fell, jaw shattered.

Kael stood alone in the fire-lit arena, heart pounding.

Above, the instructor crossed his arms.

"The Duchess wasn't wrong. You're dangerous."

Kael looked up, sweat and blood dripping from his face, the brand on his chest glowing brighter.

"I'm just getting started."