Chapter 101: The Phoenix's Fire
The academy grounds buzzed with an unusual tension as Yun-ho, Nova, and Ethan made their way across campus, their destination set on Ryker, one of the strongest upperclassmen Contractors. Contracted to Phoenix, his fiery temper and devastating power made him a formidable ally, but also someone notoriously difficult to approach.
Yun-ho could feel the heat before they even saw him. Flames danced along the rocky field Ryker used for training, warping the air around him. His red hair almost looked aflame, and each movement of his sword left trails of embers burning brightly in the fading afternoon.
"This is going to be fun," Nova muttered, her sarcasm barely masking the hint of nervousness in her voice.
As they stepped forward, Ryker's fiery aura only intensified, making the entire area feel like a furnace. But Nova, not one to back down from a challenge, walked ahead confidently.
"Ryker!" she called out, her voice cutting through the roar of the flames.
He turned slowly, eyes narrowed. "What do you want?"
Yun-ho stepped beside Nova. "We need your strength," he said. "There's a threat coming, and we can't face it alone."
Ryker raised an eyebrow, his hand still gripping his sword hilt. "And why should I care?"
Ethan stepped forward, his voice unusually serious. "Because it's not just our fight anymore. If this thing gets loose, it's everyone's problem. You, me, the entire academy."
For a moment, Ryker said nothing, his fiery gaze locked onto Yun-ho's. But slowly, he sheathed his sword and crossed his arms, the flames around him dying down.
"Talk."
Yun-ho explained the Heart of Darkness and the gravity of the situation. As he spoke, he noticed a flicker of understanding cross Ryker's face. When he finished, Ryker sighed, looking away towards the horizon.
"The Phoenix has been restless," he admitted. "I've felt something was coming. Fine, I'm in."
Yun-ho felt a wave of relief. With Ryker on board, their group was stronger than ever, but there were still others they needed to convince.
As they left the training grounds, Nova smirked, nudging Yun-ho. "Looks like you've got a way with words after all."
But Yun-ho wasn't smiling. He glanced back at Ryker, whose silhouette was still framed against the setting sun. This was only the beginning, and with each new ally they gained, the stakes only grew higher.
In the distance, the sun dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows over the academy. The next battle was drawing closer, and Yun-ho knew there was no turning back now.