The atmosphere inside Cakra Sakti Academy turned tense overnight.
Disciples whispered in clusters.Senior instructors stood guard at every entrance.The training halls no longer echoed with calm discipline—but anticipation.
A challenge had been issued.
The Black Seal
Bayu placed the sealed letter on the central table.
The wax seal was black, marked with a crimson sigil shaped like a broken circle.
"This symbol belongs to The Crimson Hollow," Bayu said grimly."An independent faction that rejects academy laws."
Sophie crossed her arms.
"They train fast, burn bright—and collapse just as fast."
Bayu nodded.
"They've challenged us to a formal confrontation."
Ryan's breath tightened.
"Formal?" he asked.
"Controlled," Bayu answered."Witnessed. Rules enforced."
"But make no mistake," Bayu continued,"this is how factions measure dominance."
Terms of the Challenge
Bayu read aloud.
"Three representatives from each side.Victory decided by incapacitation or surrender.No lethal force—in name only."
Ryan noticed Sophie's jaw tighten.
"They always twist the rules," she muttered.
Bayu's gaze turned to Ryan.
"They specifically requested a newly advanced Level 3 warrior."
The room fell silent.
"They want me," Ryan realized.
"Yes," Bayu confirmed."You represent potential. They want to test—and intimidate."
The Decision
Ryan felt every eye on him.
Fear flickered—but did not settle.
"I'll go," he said calmly.
Sophie stepped forward instantly.
"He's only Stage 3," she argued."They're pushing him too early."
Bayu raised a hand.
"Ryan," he said carefully,"this won't just test your strength. It will test your resolve."
Ryan met his gaze.
"I didn't choose power for comfort," he said."I chose it to protect."
Silence.
Then Bayu nodded.
"Very well."
Preparation
Training intensified.
Ryan sparred against senior disciples.
Not to win—
But to endure.
"Control first," Sophie repeated constantly."Never mirror their rage."
Ryan trained with the Cakra Kencana Kris, practicing energy coating without drawing the blade.
Restraint.Precision.Intent.
His grandfather's voice echoed in his mind.
We do not strike first.
The Arena
The confrontation was held in a neutral stone arena outside the city.
Representatives from multiple factions watched from the stands.
When the Crimson Hollow warriors arrived, the temperature seemed to drop.
Their leader smirked at Ryan.
"So you're the heir," he said softly."Let's see how long your discipline lasts."
Ryan stepped forward.
Calm.
Focused.
Unshaken.
The gong echoed.
The duel began.
