Chapter 1: The Shattered Mirror
The Grand Hall of the Imperial Star Academy was a cathedral of cold titanium and shimmering holograms. Lin Feng stood at the center of the obsidian dais, his posture rigid, though his internal world was in chaos. He had transmigrated into this body only three days ago—leaving behind a life as a tactical analyst on 21st-century Earth for a world where humanity commanded the stars with the power of their "Star-Souls."
"Lin Feng of House Volaris," a cold, melodic voice cut through his thoughts.
Standing atop the crystalline stairs was Princess Isabella, her silver hair cascading over a military uniform adorned with more medals than Lin Feng had credits in his bank account. Beside her stood Kaelen, the heir to the Duke of High-Reach, wearing a smirk that looked like it had been carved out of pure arrogance.
"Your awakening ceremony was a disaster," Isabella continued, her eyes showing no pity. "While Kaelen awakened a 'Solar-Class Destroyer' soul, you produced... a trinket. A broken mirror locket. House Volaris is a guttering flame, and its Viscount is a flicker. Our engagement is an insult to the Royal Bloodline. It is hereby annulled."
A holographic scroll appeared between them, shattering into digital dust. The rejection was public. The mockery from the surrounding cadets was a physical weight.
"A mirror?" Kaelen laughed, stepping forward. His hand rested on the hilt of a ceremonial vibro-blade. "What will you do, Lin Feng? Blind your enemies with a reflection before they vaporize your pathetic territory? The Dust Sector is a graveyard. It suits you."
Lin Feng felt a burning sensation against his chest. Beneath his tunic, the ancient locket—the "useless" soul—was pulsing. A screen only he could see flickered into existence.
> [System Initializing...]
> [Host: Lin Feng]
> [Soul Talent: Infinite Refraction (SSS-Rank)]
> [Status: 1% Synced. First Scan Available.]
>
"I accept the annulment," Lin Feng said, his voice surprisingly steady. "But House Volaris doesn't take insults lying down. Kaelen, you talk about vaporizing. How about a duel in the Simulation Nebula? My 'Rusty Anchor' frigate against your 'Silver-Wing' Destroyer. Standard stakes."
Kaelen's eyes widened, then gleamed with greed. "Standard stakes for a Viscount? That's your territory rights and 500 million Credits. You don't have that kind of money."
"I have the deeds to the Star-Iron mines in the Dust Sector," Lin Feng countered. "And you? I want your 'Foreign Race Slave Ledger' and the governorship of the Border Outpost."
"Deal," Kaelen barked. "Prepare to lose the last thing your father left you."