The Draconic System: Rise of To Ascendance

The city streets were unusually quiet as Raizen walked toward the meeting point, the tension in the air thick enough to cut with a blade. His recent victory had sent ripples through the underground, and he knew it wouldn't take long before noble factions started moving against him.

Liana had arranged the meeting at an abandoned industrial district, a once-thriving sector now reduced to rusted buildings and flickering streetlights. As he approached, he spotted Kain and Joran already waiting, their weapons holstered but their body language tense.

"You took your time," Kain muttered, scanning the area. "You sure about this?"

Raizen smirked. "Not at all. But we're past playing it safe."

Joran let out a low chuckle. "That's what I like to hear."

The sound of approaching footsteps broke their conversation. From the shadows emerged Ayaka Renji, clad in a sleek, reinforced combat suit, her crimson hair tied back. She had that usual smirk on her lips, but there was something different in her eyes—curiosity, maybe even respect.

"I heard you've been causing problems for the nobles," Ayaka said, stopping a few feet away. "And that you took down Mouren like he was a common thug."

Raizen crossed his arms. "He thought I was just another fighter to crush. He was wrong."

Ayaka nodded, glancing at Joran and Kain before focusing on Raizen again. "So, what's next? You planning to take over this city, or are you just warming up?"

Raizen didn't answer immediately. The truth was, he wasn't sure himself. His strength had grown faster than he had anticipated, and with each victory, new doors opened. But they weren't without consequences.

"The nobles won't let this go," Kain interrupted. "They'll send someone stronger. More connected. Mouren was just the start."

Ayaka studied Raizen for a moment before stepping closer. "If you're serious about this, I might have something for you," she said, lowering her voice. "There's a noble gathering happening in two nights. High-level players, the kind that pull strings behind the scenes. If you crash that meeting, you'll either gain new allies or make powerful enemies."

Raizen's golden eyes gleamed with interest. "And you're inviting me?"

Ayaka smirked. "Consider it a test."

Joran let out a whistle. "Now that sounds fun."

Raizen exhaled slowly. His instincts told him this wasn't just another challenge. This was the next step in his evolution.

"Then I'll be there."