The banners of the clans fluttered high above the Grand Inter-Clan Arena.
This was no ordinary tournament.
This was where reputations were destroyed… or forged forever.
Ryuji stepped onto the stone platform. The crowd was massive—fighters, elders, assassins hiding among spectators. Every major clan was present: Iron Tiger, Shadow Moon, Silver Crane, Scarlet Phoenix, and even envoys from the Celestial Dragon Clan.
Lyra's voice echoed in his mind.Stay sharp. This tournament is different. The Dark Cloud Sect is involved.
The horn sounded.
"First match," the announcer shouted. "Ryuji versus… Kain of the Shadow Moon Clan!"
A ripple of whispers spread through the crowd.
Shadow Moon.
Assassins. Poison. Silent killers.
Kain stepped forward, smiling calmly. Too calmly. His presence felt wrong—like a blade hidden in darkness.
"So you're the Dragon," Kain said softly. "Let's see how bright your flame is… before it goes out."
The match began.
Ryuji moved first, Dragon energy flaring. But Kain vanished.
Pain exploded in Ryuji's shoulder.
Too fast.
Poison burned through his veins. His vision blurred.
The crowd gasped.
"This is Shadow Moon style," Kain whispered behind him. "You never see the killing blow."
Ryuji staggered—but didn't fall.
Inside him, the Dragon roared.
Golden flames erupted, burning the poison away. His eyes sharpened. His senses expanded.
I see you.
Ryuji turned in a flash and struck.
Dragon's Fist + Phoenix Flame.
The impact shattered the arena floor. Kain was sent flying, crashing into the barrier. Silence followed… then thunderous cheers.
Kain coughed, blood dripping from his mouth. He smiled.
"Interesting," he said. "You survived."
From the VIP stands, a hooded figure stood up.
"The Dragon has entered the stage," the figure murmured."Prepare Phase Two."
Ryuji felt it.
This tournament wasn't about glory.
It was a trap.
And he was the target.