It was a new day, the day of departure for both military divisions. Tahir was waiting for John when Arcane approached him.
"It was great fighting alongside someone as strong as you. I wish I could see your face at least once before leaving."
"I'm sorry, but I can't let anyone see my face. If we're destined to meet again, I'm sure we will. You have potential—train harder and become stronger," Tahir responded.
Arcane and Tahir shook hands before Arcane went to join his team.
The bus carrying the audience had just left, and only John, Tahir, and his friends were left to board the participants' bus.
"So, are you going to enter the next competition? You know, the one for the overall champion?" John asked.
"That depends on what your orders are, and besides, I'd prefer to stay anonymous," Tahir replied, gazing out of the window as the bus started moving.
"I think you should go for it. I know you could beat him anyway, so let's add that win to the academy's achievements," John said eagerly.
"Alright then, when's the next match?" Tahir asked.
"I just need to fill out some paperwork and submit our challenge to the academy. Everything should be set in about three days," John answered, already filling out some forms.
****
Back at the academy, the news was spreading like wildfire that the Devil had won the match. Rumors circulated, and many couldn't believe that the Devil was actually from the academy.
Tahir continued his usual training, pretending not to be the Devil. Kris, Jude, Esha, and Zahara were often stopped and asked if they knew who the Devil was. Their answers were always the same: "We don't know him, he wore his mask the whole time." Of course, not everyone believed them.
Tahir was meeting John for training that day and decided to ask another question.
"Where's the forge workshop? I want to try learning how to craft a good armor," Tahir inquired.
"It's somewhere around the school. I don't really know my way around, since most of my business is outside the academy. But I'm sure if you ask around, you'll find it," John replied, rummaging through his things.
"Okay, so what are you looking for? We're supposed to be training today, remember?" Tahir asked, raising an eyebrow.
"Found it! It's an old VR system. It used to be used for training at the academy. With it, you can fight strong opponents and improve your skills. Here, try it out," John said, tossing the glass-like device to Tahir.
"I know this model. I designed one back home, but this is the older version—it won't give you access to a lot of features. I'll try upgrading it though," Tahir said, storing the device in his inventory.
Since his encounter in the cave, Tahir had changed. He learned how to use his inventory and had intensified his training. He had come close to death that day. Without his blood ability, he would have been exhausted, and the beast could have ended his journey.
"Designed one of these?" John asked, confused.
"Yeah, I do a lot of things. I'll bring it after I upgrade it," Tahir replied, walking away.
"There's a lot about that kid I don't know," John muttered to himself before heading to his usual spot to spar with the beasts.
****
"I'm trying my best, Dad. I'll get stronger and make you proud," Esha said, holding back tears.
"Proud? You're nothing but a curse. Your abilities are as worthless as you are. There's no point in trying. Just make sure you don't die before you graduate," the man, presumably her father, said before ending the call.
Tahir happened to pass by and overheard the conversation. Moments after the call ended, he could hear Esha sobbing.
"Are you okay?" Tahir asked, walking toward her.
"Yeah, I'm fine. Something just got in my eye. Where are you headed?" Esha asked, wiping away her tears.
"I was going to head to my dorm, but I've changed my mind. Let's go grab something to eat. We can get something for the others too. Don't worry, I've got the bill," Tahir said with a smile as they strolled to the cafeteria.
****
At the other military school, Arcane was kneeling with his head bowed.
"I'm sorry, Father. I could have tried harder. I know I failed you," Arcane muttered, barely audible.
"No worries. He's something else. He wasn't even fighting at full strength. But you've shown me a level many military personnel haven't reached yet. I'm proud of you, son. I'm glad I have someone who can take my place," Arcane's father said, gesturing for him to stand.
"I'll train harder and beat him. I must become stronger than him," Arcane declared, hurrying off to train.
"Poor boy... I'm sorry, son, but you won't be able to catch up to him. He's consumed by pain and anger, on a completely different level," Arcane's father murmured to himself, shaking his head.
****
Focusing on his awakened mode, Arcane pushed himself to last longer in that form. He knew it was his only trump card against the Devil, the one who had shown him what true power was.
So far, he had managed to add a minute to his awakened state. "It's not enough. I need more power. I must surpass him, I must make father proud!, I'll surprise you next time we meet, Devil. I'm sure of it!"
Arcane was determined to exceed the Devil's limits, but little did he know that the future had something else in store.