Shan Lion froze, his eyes wide with shock and fear. "(It's… it's that technique. The technique no one in this world can face. How? How did he master it already? He only started training moments ago… I need to stop him fast, or this could spiral out of control.)"
With a swift motion, Shan raised his sword and deflected the overpowering energy that had erupted from Jun. The force of the impact created a gust that swept through the training ground, sending loose debris and dirt flying into the air.
"Jun," Shan called out, his voice calm but firm, "today's training ends here."
Jun Lion immediately stopped, still breathing heavily, sweat glistening on his brow. Around them, the once-proud warriors who had come to train were now sprawled across the ground, unconscious or barely conscious. The sheer intensity of Jun's power had brought everyone to their knees.
Shan turned away. "Come with me."
"Yes, Father," Jun replied quietly, following behind.
As the two walked away, whispers rose behind them.
Soha's voice trembled with disbelief. "Was that really our good-for-nothing young master? How could someone like him use a technique of that level?"
Rufi clenched her fists, eyes fixed on Jun's back. "Are you crazy? After seeing that, how can you still call him 'good-for-nothing'? He's… he's something else entirely."
The murmurs continued as Shan and Jun entered the grand hall of the Lion family estate, its marble pillars and golden tapestries glinting in the dim torchlight.
"Jun… my son," Shan said, stopping before the family altar.
"Yes, Father?" Jun responded, his voice quieter now, guarded.
"The technique you used earlier… where did you learn it?"
Jun's heart skipped a beat.
"(Shit… How should I answer? I can't just tell Father about the system. Or… should I? No. No, Jun. What are you thinking? You can't reveal the system. Not yet.)"
"Uhh… Father… I... I sometimes have dreams where I see someone using it. I tried copying the moves… and it worked. I was surprised too."
Shan stared deeply into his son's eyes.
"(What a good liar,)" he thought. "(You expect me to believe that nonsense?)"
"I see… So it's like this." Shan stepped back. "But listen carefully. You are not to use that technique in front of others—unless absolutely necessary. Do you understand?"
"Yes… Father."
"I've recommended you to the Royal Academy. You'll begin your studies in one week. Until then, you're free to do what you want—but again, keep that power hidden from the public."
"Understood."
"You may go."
Jun bowed respectfully and exited the hall. Shan remained behind, deep in thought.
"(Huff… That was terrifying. Even though that wasn't the full extent of the technique, I still felt that same overwhelming pressure… just like back then.)" He let out a long sigh, rubbing his temples.
"How could I forget? He became the world's strongest person in just 21 years. Even the combined might of the world couldn't stop him."
"But… today, for the first time, I saw something different. He smiled. A genuine smile. If I'd known he was capable of that, I would have talked to him long ago. No matter… the past is past. What matters now is the present. I'll cherish this second chance—and live as a true father, with my family."
Meanwhile, rumors were spreading like wildfire across the Lion family estate. The "good-for-nothing" first young master had awakened a power that even elders couldn't comprehend. While many dismissed it as exaggerated gossip, those who had witnessed the training ground incident knew the truth:
The Lion had awakened.
Jun Lion had finally opened the gates to his true power.
---
Later That Night – Jun Lion's Room
"Arghh… What a day," Jun groaned, stretching out on his bed. "I should sleep before something else crazy happens."
He flopped down and closed his eyes.
[Ding…]
[The Host is now free]
[You may now check your rewards for today's achievements]
Jun sat up instantly. "Oh! I almost forgot. Okay, System—show me the rewards."
[Ding…]
[Battle Summary: +1000 EXP | +50 CP]
[EXP can be used to level up your character or your individual skills]
[CP (Core Points) can be used to increase your attributes]
"Nice! So I can strengthen both my base level and specific skills… That's perfect."
[Ding…]
[Daily Bonus Unlocked: Random Gift Box Available]
[Open the box to receive a mystery item]
Jun's eyes sparkled with curiosity. "Huh… okay. Open it!"
[Opening Random Box…]
To be continued…