Upon entering Life Zone Alpha, a figure blocked their path.
"Hah… so the famous LifeCode Host shows up," the stranger sneered.
He introduced himself as Darius Kain, a rival host with his own system. Unlike Arin, Darius was cocky, experienced, and clearly looking for a fight.
[Warning: Rival Detected]
[Engage carefully — potential skill test imminent]
The confrontation escalated into a challenge of strategy and reflexes. Arin relied on his newly acquired Artistic and Empathy skills to predict moves and stay calm under pressure.
[Skill Use: Empathy + Artistic Creativity]
[Outcome: Partial Victory – Darius retreats, but leaves a taunting message: "Next time, I won't hold back."]
LifeCode chimed:
[Experience Gained: 50]
[Skill Boost: Reflexes +1, Observation +1]
Arin realized that the world was bigger than he imagined — and not all life challenges were friendly.