Chương 13: Chapter 12: The Hollow

Three days passed. Life returned to normal. At least on the surface. Students attended classes. Nobles spread rumors. Teachers pretended nothing had happened. But Rayan knew better. Someone wanted him dead. And they would try again. The Guardian intensified his training. Every night became torture. Every lesson became survival. Until finally— The Hall of Origins changed. The genuine version of this novel can be found on another site. Support the author by reading it there. A new enemy appeared.

Unlike the ancient warriors. This one looked human. Tall. Thin. Wrapped in darkness. Its face resembled an empty mask.

"What is that?" The Guardian's expression darkened.

"A Hollow." The creature slowly raised its head. Its empty eyes locked onto Rayan. Pure hatred flooded the battlefield. The prince instinctively stepped back.

"What is it?" The Guardian remained silent for a moment. Then—"A monster created from corrupted Astra." The Hollow vanished. Instantly. Rayan barely reacted in time. A black blade sliced across his chest. Blood sprayed. Pain exploded. The prince crashed backward. Fast. Far faster than anything he had fought before. The Hollow attacked again. And again. And again. For the first time since beginning his training— Rayan lost. Repeatedly. Brutally. The creature hunted him without mercy. Every death felt real.

Every defeat humiliated him. Eventually— The Guardian spoke.

"The future contains many Hollows." Another death.

"Learn." Another death.

"Adapt." Another death.

"Overcome." Rayan slowly rose again. Blood dripping. Eyes burning. And smiled.

"If I have to die a thousand times..." He summoned his Judgment Blade.

"... then let's start counting." To Be Continue....