[Updated Attribute Panel] Host: Ed Val
Strength: 40 → 45
Speed: 34 → 38
Endurance: 30 → 35
Luck: ???
Skills: Basic Combat, Market Manipulation, Enhanced Reflexes, Pressure Point Strike, Shadow Evasion, Battle Instinct
Special Skill: Personal Space Storage
New Passive Skill: Pain Resistance (Minor)
Ed gasped for breath as the dust settled, his body aching from the brutal clash with the Crimson Guardian. Every muscle in his body screamed in protest, yet his mind remained razor-sharp, analyzing the encounter that had just taken place. His fingers curled into fists as he took in the words of his enemy.
Lucian helped him to his feet, smirking. "You're still in one piece, kid. That's a good start."
Ed wiped the blood from his lip and exhaled. "Tch. I let him get the better of me. I need to be faster, stronger."
Lucian studied him for a moment before nodding. "You're learning. But raw power isn't enough. Tactics, adaptability, endurance—all of it matters."
Before they could continue their discussion, a mocking voice interrupted them. "Look at this! The so-called rising star of the new world got smacked around like a rookie. I thought you'd be more impressive, Ed Val."
Ed turned, his gaze narrowing at the approaching figure—Jiro Santos, one of the top-ranking fighters from another martial sect. A smug grin stretched across his face, flanked by his equally arrogant lackeys.
Lucian crossed his arms, unimpressed. "And who invited you to the conversation?"
Jiro shrugged. "I was just passing by when I saw Ed here getting tossed around like a rag doll. Thought I'd give him some advice—maybe he should quit while he's ahead."
Ed smirked, his exhaustion overshadowed by irritation. "Oh? And you think you'd fare any better against that monster?"
Jiro's grin faltered slightly but returned just as quickly. "Maybe, maybe not. But at least I wouldn't embarrass myself."
Ed took a step forward, cracking his knuckles. "You sure about that?"
The tension crackled in the air as onlookers began gathering. A fight was brewing.
Jiro scoffed. "You just went through hell. I'd feel bad beating a half-dead opponent."
"So you're backing out?" Ed taunted. "Smart choice."
Jiro's face darkened. "Cocky bastard. Fine. Let's have a match. Here and now."
Lucian sighed, shaking his head. "You two are impossible."
Battle Begins
Jiro lunged first, his movements sharp and aggressive. Ed barely had time to react as a spinning kick aimed for his ribs. He dodged by a hair's breadth, countering with Pressure Point Strike. His fingers jabbed at Jiro's shoulder, aiming to disable his arm.
Jiro twisted away, smirking. "Nice try. But you're too predictable."
Ed clicked his tongue. Jiro had improved since their last encounter.
Shadow Evasion!
Ed sidestepped Jiro's punch, weaving through his attacks with growing ease. His Battle Instinct skill activated, analyzing Jiro's movements. The patterns became clearer—his stance slightly off-balance, his left side weaker.
Ed struck.
A swift palm strike to Jiro's exposed rib sent him stumbling back, eyes widening in surprise.
"What?!" Jiro growled, recovering quickly. "You little—"
His anger fueled his next assault. Jiro unleashed a flurry of strikes, his speed increasing. Ed blocked and dodged, but a heavy kick landed against his shoulder, sending him sliding back.
[Endurance Dropped by 3%]
Ed wiped his lip, grinning. "That all you got?"
Jiro snarled. "You're dead!"
His fist came down like a hammer. Ed's eyes gleamed—he had seen this move before. Timing it perfectly, he sidestepped and delivered a crushing elbow to Jiro's spine.
Jiro gasped, his legs momentarily buckling.
Ed didn't waste the opening. Twisting mid-motion, he executed a Spin Kick, landing a direct hit to Jiro's jaw.
Jiro crashed onto the ground, groaning. The crowd erupted into murmurs.
Lucian chuckled. "Told you not to underestimate him."
Jiro staggered to his feet, seething with rage. "I… I won't lose to you!"
Before he could charge again, a deep voice interrupted. "Enough."
The crowd turned as an elder from the martial sect appeared. His sharp gaze fell upon Jiro. "Causing unnecessary battles in public is beneath you. Stand down."
Jiro clenched his fists, but he knew better than to argue. He shot Ed a glare before turning away. "This isn't over."
Ed smirked. "Looking forward to it."
The elder turned to Ed. "You are strong, but be mindful. Power alone attracts enemies. Learn when to fight and when to walk away."
Ed nodded, understanding the wisdom behind the words.
[System Notification: Battle Completed]
Rewards: +5 Strength, +3 Speed, +2 Endurance
New Skill Unlocked: Rapid CounterEffect: Instantly retaliate when attacked, increasing counterattack damage by 20%.
Lucian grinned. "Well, kid, I'd say that was productive. Ready for the next challenge?"
Ed cracked his knuckles. "Always."
The world was evolving, and so was he. One battle at a time, one victory at a time—he would reach the top, no matter what stood in his way.
And this was only the beginning.