Temporal Dominion

Lucian sat in the classroom, but his mind was elsewhere.

The lecture on elemental synergies droned on, but he wasn't paying attention. Instead, he was mapping out his next move.

He needed to test his power.

The academy had strict rules about ability use, but dueling was an accepted way to gauge strength. If he wanted to rise through the ranks, he had to challenge someone—someone strong enough to push him, but not so strong that he'd get crushed instantly.

His gaze flickered around the room.

Most of the students here were Bronze Tier, with a few Silvers mixed in. Too weak to be worth challenging.

Then, his eyes landed on Ethan Marell.

A Silver-Tier combatant known for his skill in kinetic augmentation. Ethan could enhance his movements, increasing his speed and power beyond normal human limits.

He was strong—but not untouchable.

Lucian clenched his fist. He was perfect.

The bell rang, signaling the end of class.

Lucian stood, his heart hammering in his chest as he made his way toward Ethan.

"Elara was right," he thought. "People are already noticing something is different about me. If I don't control the narrative, someone else will."

He had to act now.

Ethan was gathering his things when Lucian stopped in front of him.

The murmurs in the room died down as nearby students turned to watch.

Lucian met Ethan's gaze. "I want to challenge you to a duel."

A beat of silence. Then—a chuckle.

Ethan smirked. "You?"

Lucian didn't waver. "Yes. Unless you're afraid."

A few students murmured in surprise. Others snickered.

Ethan let out a short laugh. "You're serious?" He leaned forward. "You don't even have a tier ranking."

Lucian's voice was calm. "That'll change soon."

Ethan's eyes narrowed.

Then he grinned.

"Alright," he said. "You want to get humiliated? Fine. Meet me at the dueling grounds after class."

Lucian nodded once. "See you there."

As he walked away, the whispers began.

Lucian Vale just challenged a Silver-Tier fighter.

The kid with no powers? Has he lost his mind?

No—he's awakened something. Haven't you noticed?

Lucian ignored the voices.

This was his first step.

And no matter what—he would not lose.