Infernal Blade

As Xavier laid in his bed he could only have a sense of dread wash over him. I need to get stronger or find something that could help me win against the mozzie Clan brothers. Xavier thought as he allowed himself to fall asleep. In the dream realm, Xavier stood amidst the ruins of ash and flame, his chest heaving with exhaustion yet filled with exhilaration. The catastrophic tornado of flames had dissipated, leaving nothing but scorched earth in its wake. The heavenly screech still echoed faintly in his ears, a reminder of the raw, untamed power he had unleashed.

Elior, his spectral mentor, hovered nearby, his usually composed demeanor shaken with astonishment. "Young Master," Elior finally said, his voice a mix of awe and concern, "what you just accomplished is unprecedented. Soul energy is not meant to be harnessed in such a way, let alone infused into techniques like this. You've not only defied logic but created something entirely new."

Xavier wiped the sweat from his brow, his lips curling into a small, triumphant smile. "If it's new," he said, "then it needs a name. I'll call it the Infernal Soul Blade: First Form."

The moment the words left his mouth, a golden glow enveloped him, and a chime resonated in the air. A holographic screen appeared before him, detailing his updated status. For the first time, a new tab was illuminated, labeled Soul Abilities.

Status Update:

New Skill Unlocked: Infernal Soul Blade: First Form

Skill Level: Beginner

Tab Unlocked: Soul Abilities

Xavier's eyes widened as he scrolled through the newly unlocked tab. The Soul Abilities section was sparse, with only one ability listed: Infernal Soul Blade: First Form. Yet, beneath it, there was a faint message: Potential Skills Await Discovery.

Elior observed silently, his ethereal form flickering as he processed what had transpired. "This is no small feat, Young Master," he said gravely. "Infusing soul energy into your techniques is dangerous and uncharted territory. It will grant you unparalleled strength, but it will also place a strain on your body and mind. Use it wisely."

Xavier nodded, the weight of Elior's words sinking in. "I understand," he said. "But if I want to survive tomorrow and prove that I'm not just some weak mid-tier Noble warrior, I need every advantage I can get."

Elior floated closer, his gaze piercing. "Remember, Young Master, soul energy is not just a tool; it is a part of your essence. If you misuse it, the consequences could be catastrophic."

Xavier bowed his head slightly in acknowledgment. "I'll be careful, Elior. Thank you for guiding me."

Elior's form began to fade, his voice echoing as he disappeared. "Rest now, Young Master. Tomorrow will test you in ways you cannot yet imagine. Trust in your training, and trust in yourself."

As the dream realm dissolved around him, Xavier awoke with a start. The faint light of dawn crept through the window of his barracks room. His body felt different—stronger, more attuned to the energy flowing within him. He clenched his fists, feeling the subtle hum of soul energy coursing through his veins.

Today was the day. The tournament awaited, and Xavier was ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.

Xavier stepped out of his barracks room, his movements filled with a newfound confidence. The air was crisp, carrying the sounds of students bustling about in preparation for the tournament. He made his way to the courtyard where Jessica stood waiting for him, her crimson dress replaced by a more practical yet equally elegant battle outfit, tailored for mobility and protection. The sight of her brought a small smile to Xavier's face, and he waved as he approached.

"Good morning," Jessica greeted warmly, her voice tinged with both affection and curiosity. "You seem… different."

Xavier chuckled lightly. "Let's just say I had a productive night," he replied cryptically.

Jessica raised an eyebrow, but before she could inquire further, they were joined by Xavier's newly made friends—Eddie, a tall noble-ranked warrior; Mara, a swift and cunning wind manipulator; and Felix, a calm and analytical mage.

"Everyone," Xavier began, "I'd like you to meet Jessica Vice, my fiancée." His tone was casual, but there was a trace of pride in his voice.

The group exchanged surprised glances before Eddie let out a hearty laugh. "Fiancée? You don't waste time, do you?" he teased, clapping Xavier on the back.

Jessica stepped forward with a polite smile, her presence commanding respect. "It's a pleasure to meet all of you," she said, her voice steady and confident. "Xavier's told me a lot about your talents. I hope we can all support each other in the challenges ahead."

Felix adjusted his glasses, studying Jessica with a calculating gaze. "Miss Vice, your reputation precedes you. Having someone of your standing supporting Xavier is… quite the advantage."

Mara grinned, her playful nature shining through. "Well, if she's anything like you, Xavier, I'd say we're in good company."

Xavier cleared his throat, shifting the conversation. "There's something else you all need to know. Last night, after I left, I ran into a group of noble warriors from the Mozzie Clan. They were harassing Jessica."

The group's expressions darkened, the weight of the name "Mozzie Clan" not lost on them.

"What happened?" Eddie asked, his jovial demeanor replaced with seriousness.

Xavier's gaze hardened. "I intervened and told them to leave her alone. But in the heat of the moment, I may have… challenged them."

Felix let out a low whistle. "The Mozzie Clan? That's a dangerous move, Xavier. They don't take lightly to insults or challenges."

Jessica stepped in, her voice firm. "He did what any honorable man would do, and I'm proud of him for it. But it's true that the Mozzie Clan won't let this go easily. They're likely to make their move during the tournament."

Mara crossed her arms, her expression thoughtful. "Well, it's not like we can avoid them. If they're coming for you, Xavier, we'll just have to be ready."

Eddie cracked his knuckles, a determined grin spreading across his face. "I've never been one to back down from a fight. If they mess with one of us, they mess with all of us."

Xavier felt a surge of gratitude toward his friends. "Thank you," he said earnestly. "But I'll make sure to face them myself if it comes to that. I don't want to drag you all into my mess."

Felix adjusted his glasses again, his tone measured. "We're already in this together, Xavier. The tournament is a chance for us to prove ourselves, and standing united will only make us stronger."

Jessica nodded, her gaze unwavering. "We'll face whatever comes, together. Just remember, Xavier, you're not alone anymore."

As the group solidified their resolve, the sound of a distant gong echoed across the academy grounds, signaling the official start of the tournament's preliminary events.

Xavier looked at his friends, a mix of determination and gratitude in his eyes. "Let's go show them what we're made of."

Together, they made their way to the arena, ready to face whatever trials awaited.