# Chapter 20: Initiation of Shadows
The hidden figures circled Kael and Lyra like shadows brought to life, their movements synchronized and precise. Every step they took carried intent, every breath calculated. Kael's crimson eyes glowed brighter, the Codex pulsating violently, craving the energy that such disciplined predators radiated.
Lyra tightened her grip on her staff, her body tense with anticipation. "Kael… these aren't random survivors. They're trained—dangerous, and probably willing to die for their cause. Don't underestimate them."
Kael's grin widened. "I don't underestimate anything. Every challenge, every strike, every ounce of chaos… it feeds the Codex. And every force in these ruins exists to be claimed." He stepped forward, crimson energy swirling around him like a living storm, the steel pipe in his hand humming with the Codex's power.
The tallest figure, the apparent leader, spoke again. "If you wish to survive the abyss, you must first prove yourself. Strength alone will not suffice. Discipline, control, and precision… these are the true tests. Are you prepared, Kael Draven?"
Kael's eyes narrowed, the pulse of the Codex intensifying. "I've faced mutants, humans, and even beasts far beyond ordinary strength. Discipline? Control? Precision? I'll show you what the God of Ruin is capable of."
Without warning, the figures moved in perfect unison, a wave of motion so fast it seemed unreal. Kael braced himself, swinging his pipe in calculated arcs, parrying strikes with preternatural speed. Each clash of metal, each dodge, sent tremors through the ruined streets. The Codex absorbed the raw energy of each movement, integrating it into Kael's body, refining his reflexes, and sharpening his instincts.
Lyra struck from the side, keeping a relentless rhythm, her staff smashing into the attackers with lethal precision. Kael felt the synergy between them, a natural harmony that made the Codex pulse with heightened intensity. Together, they were a storm, unmatched in speed, power, and instinct.
The leader advanced, his form fluid and lethal, testing Kael with strikes that combined speed, strength, and strategy. Kael countered instinctively, the Codex amplifying every motion. He felt the energy of the combat flow into him, his muscles burning with exertion while simultaneously growing stronger.
*Skill Progress: Essence Assimilation — Level 2*
*Skill Unlocked: Shadow Sense — Heightened awareness of movements and intentions in chaotic environments.*
Kael's crimson eyes glowed fiercely as he moved, every strike feeding the Codex, every counter absorbing the energy of his opponents. The figures fell back slightly, impressed but not defeated, recognizing the raw dominance he wielded.
Lyra whispered, awed, "Kael… they're not just strong. They're extraordinary. But… you're extraordinary too."
Kael's grin widened, eyes blazing crimson. "Extraordinary is a baseline. I rise above it. And I will claim the power of every force I encounter."
The leader finally spoke again, voice carrying authority and respect. "You have passed the first trial, Kael Draven. The abyss watches, and the shadows take note. But this… is only the beginning. True initiation awaits."
Kael's pulse quickened, the Codex thrumming with anticipation. The whispers in the ruins became louder, echoing with hidden intent, as if acknowledging the rise of a force unlike any other.
"Good," Kael said, steel pipe glinting in the dim light, crimson energy spiraling around him. "The God of Ruin doesn't merely survive… he dominates. And I will claim every shadow, every whisper, every ounce of power in these ruins."
The hidden sect withdrew into the shadows, leaving Kael and Lyra standing amid the fractured city. The night air was thick with anticipation, the ruins alive with potential, and the God of Ruin's ascent unstoppable.
The initiation had begun, and the echoes of the abyss would s
hape Kael's path to ultimate power.