The Sovereign's Path: A Shadow Slave Fanfiction

Time passed quickly in the Academy, though for me, it hardly felt like much changed. While the other Sleepers attended lectures on strategy, survival, and combat theory, I spent my days in solitude—training, refining my technique, and further mastering the Chi-You style.

After the first combat class, I had no interest in returning. There was nothing they could teach me that I hadn't already learned from my teacher. I didn't need some Awakened with sloppy movements trying to lecture me on how to fight. Instead, I found my own space within the Academy's training grounds, away from the others, where I could practice in peace.

Each day followed a strict routine: refining my footwork, repeating my strikes, and tempering my endurance. I moved through the forms of the Chi-You style with precision, letting the rhythm of combat engrain itself deeper into my bones.

Occasionally, I caught glimpses of the others. Caster and his lackeys always trained in groups, boasting loudly about their future achievements. As for Nephis, she trained harder than anyone, pushing herself to the brink every single day. I could respect that much about her.

It was a few days after the first combat class when she approached me.

I had just finished a set of movements, controlling my breathing as I reset my stance, when I heard footsteps approaching. Already knowing who it was.

"You've been avoiding the classes," Nephis said plainly. Her voice was calm, but there was a hint of curiosity beneath the surface.

I exhaled through my nose and continued with my movements while answering. "Not avoiding. Just not interested."

She crossed her arms, watching me for a moment before speaking again. "Spar with me."

"Why? Didn't you get enough last time?" I didn't stop for moment, but smirked slightly.

She didn't react to the jab. "You're strong. Stronger than the instructors. I need to get stronger too."

I considered her for a moment. Most people would shy away from asking someone who'd beaten them for another round. But Nephis wasn't like most people. Her determination burned too brightly for that.

"Alright," I said eventually. "When?"

"Tonight. And every night after."

I smirked. "Oh my little Star, you are that eager, huh?"

She didn't respond, but I could tell from her posture that she was serious. I sighed, stretching my arms.

"Fine. But don't cry if you lose again."

She rushed at me without further ado, throwing a punch, just kick towards where I dodged. Admirable, but not enough. I danced around her for a few exchange and when I saw a good chance I threw her off balance and pinned her on the ground face down.

I leaned a bit closer and asked in a teasing voice.

"Do you like laying on the ground that much ?"

She didn't answer just shook me off, not that i resisted it and then just left without saying anything.

"Good night to you too." I shouted after her while scratching the back of my head. " Did i go too far ? Nah, its alright."

From that night onward, we sparred regularly. After lights-out, when the rest of the Academy was asleep, we met at the training grounds. It was rather weird at first, no saying hello or small talk, just a nod and than start.

Nephis was relentless. She learned from every exchange, adapted to every loss, and never repeated a mistake. At first, she was a step behind, but by the second week, I had to put in actual effort to maintain my advantage.

She fought with clarity and purpose, never wasting a movement, never hesitating. Where others relied on brute strength or flashy techniques, she focused on efficiency—on cutting down an opponent in the shortest amount of time. It was an admirable mindset.

And yet, no matter how much she improved, I always remained one step ahead. I could tell it frustrated her, though she never voiced it. Instead, she took every loss as a lesson, using it to fuel her progress. It reminded me of my own training.

By the fourth week, our spars had become something of a ritual. A silent understanding passed between us each night—no words needed, just a nod before the first strike was thrown.

The last day of the Academy came faster than expected.

Sleepers gathered, some nervous, others eager, as we prepared for our journey into the Dream Realm. The real test was about to begin. No instructors, no safety nets. Only our own strength.

I was sitting on a bench, when Nephis approached me.

She stopped in front of me, arms crossed. "You ready?"

I smirked. "Always."

She nodded. A brief silence passed between us before she spoke again. "If we meet inside…"

I glanced at her. "I'll help you. I'm not your enemy."

She blinked, as if surprised by my answer.

I shrugged. "What are you surprised at my little Star ?"

She studied me for a moment, then nodded. "I'm not your little Star."

I stood, adjusting my blindfold. "Hahaha"

After that we separated and went ot our own sleeping pod. I lied down and gave in to the drowsyness.

'Here we go then, I wonder where i will end up.'