After the epic events in Kota Kinabalu and celebrating the victory with his loved ones, the school holidays finally came to an end. Ryu had returned to Korea with Lis – who happily moved into the house next door so they could stay together and continue their studies at the same school. Lis's new home was literally just a few steps away from Ryu's, making it easy for both families to visit each other frequently.
On the first day back in Korea, Ryu woke up with a deep sense of gratitude in his heart. The sun shone brightly through the gap in his curtains, illuminating the walls adorned with photos of precious memories with his family and friends. He looked toward the right side of his bed, where a small photo of him and Lis at Tanjung Aru beach was clearly displayed – their faces full of happy smiles despite having just gone through difficult times.
Ryu slowly got out of bed, feeling his body had fully recovered after the battle against Lord Khaos. He did a series of light stretches before heading to the bathroom, realizing that even though the events in Malaysia were over, traces of supernatural energy still remained within him – like a calm ocean that held great power in its depths.
After showering and getting dressed neatly, Ryu went downstairs where the aroma of a delicious breakfast filled the air. His mother, Yoon Mi-young, was cooking in the kitchen with a warm expression, while his father Mikael was reading the newspaper while enjoying his coffee.
"Good morning, honey," said Mi-young as she placed a plate full of warm rice, sunny-side-up eggs, boiled vegetables, and grilled meat on the dining table. "You look better today. Ready for your first day back at school?"
Ryu smiled and nodded: "I'm ready, Mom. I really missed the school atmosphere and seeing my friends again."
Mikael put down his newspaper and looked at his son with loving eyes: "Remember Ryu, even though you have extraordinary powers, at school you're still just an ordinary student. Don't draw unnecessary attention, we don't want trouble coming our way again."
"I understand, Dad," Ryu replied politely. "I'll do my best to hold back my power and live like any other student."
As they were eating breakfast, a soft knock sounded at the front door. Mi-young immediately stood up to open it, and Lis appeared wearing a neat white and blue school uniform, her reddish-blonde hair tied neatly with a blue ribbon that matched the uniform's color.
"Hi Mrs. Mi-young! Good morning!" said Lis with her usual bright smile that always made the atmosphere warmer. "I came to pick up Ryu, we don't want to be late for school."
"You're always right on time, Lis," said Mi-young with a warm smile. "Come in for a moment, would you like some hot tea first?"
"No need, Mrs. Mi-young. We'll be late," replied Lis as she looked at Ryu, who had just finished eating. "Ready yet, Ryu?"
"Ready to go!" answered Ryu as he picked up his school bag, which was already prepared on the chair next to him. He said goodbye to his parents before leaving the house with Lis.
The two friends walked together toward the school, which was about a ten-minute walk from their homes. The busy morning streets formed the backdrop for their journey, with street food vendors already opening their stalls and people hurrying off to work.
"You're really okay now, aren't you Ryu?" asked Lis with a caring voice, slipping her hand through Ryu's arm. "I'm still worried about what happened in Malaysia. You really pushed yourself too hard when fighting Lord Khaos."
Ryu gently squeezed Lis's hand: "I'm perfectly fine, Lis. Don't worry. Besides, I have you and everyone who cares about me, so I'll always be strong."
They talked about various things along the way – from their plans for this final semester, the textbooks they would be studying, to stories about their holiday experiences. Lis also told him how easily she had adapted to life in Korea, especially since her house was right next to Ryu's and his family was always very kind to her.
When they arrived at the school gate, they were greeted by a bustling atmosphere with students gathering and chatting. Several of Ryu's friends immediately approached him with bright smiles when they saw him.
"Ryu! You're finally here!" exclaimed Jung Jaehyun – his classmate who was also the school's boxing athlete – while giving him a firm handshake. "Heard you went on holiday to Malaysia? Was it fun?"
"It was really fun, Jaehyun," replied Ryu with a smile. "How about you? Looks like you didn't stop training boxing, you're getting more athletic."
"Hehe, of course," answered Jaehyun proudly. "I'm preparing for the national boxing championship next month. You have to come watch me compete!"
Soon after, the school bell rang, signaling that it was time to go to class. Ryu and Lis hurried to Class 12-B, located on the third floor of the main school building. When they entered the classroom, they found most of their classmates already there, chatting enthusiastically.
Class 12-B was a class with a very warm and friendly atmosphere. The walls were decorated with students' artwork, a bulletin board full of important information, and photos of school events that the class had participated in. The light brown wooden desks and chairs were neatly arranged in five rows, with each desk occupied by two students.
Ryu and Lis sat at their desk in the second row from the front – a spot they had occupied since the start of the school year. Soon after, their homeroom teacher – Ms. Kim Soojin – entered the classroom carrying several books and a sheet of paper that seemed to contain important announcements.
Ms. Kim Soojin was a Korean language teacher who had been teaching for over twenty years. Her always smiling face and engaging teaching style made her very popular among students. She wore a light blue work dress with a neat black skirt, and her black hair was tied neatly at the back of her head.
"Welcome back to school, my dear students!" said Ms. Soojin in a cheerful and energetic voice, making the entire class immediately turn to her with full attention. "I hope you all enjoyed your long holiday and have returned with renewed spirit to face this final semester! This year will be important for all of you, as you will be taking the final exams that will determine your future."
The class immediately responded with loud and enthusiastic applause. After the applause died down, Ms. Soojin began to walk slowly between the rows of desks while looking at each student with attentive eyes.
"As you know, every year at the start of the new semester we hold a physical strength assessment test," continued Ms. Soojin. "This test aims to measure your physical abilities and build high discipline and sportsmanship. However, this year is different from previous years!"
A buzz of excitement began to fill the classroom. Some students looked at each other with curious expressions, while others clearly showed their interest on their faces.
"Usually this test is done by competing between students from the same or different classes," explained Ms. Soojin in a clear and firm voice. "But this year, on the decision of the faculty board and principal, each student will face off against the strongest teacher in our school – someone with extraordinary martial arts skills!"
The buzz grew louder throughout the classroom. Some students looked excited and couldn't wait to show their abilities, while others were a little worried upon hearing they would have to fight against a much more experienced and stronger teacher.
"The teacher who will be your opponent is Mr. Choi Minho – our school's martial arts instructor who has won various national and even international championships," continued Ms. Soojin as she gestured toward the open classroom door. "Mr. Choi has been teaching at our school for over fifteen years and is skilled in various types of martial arts such as Taekwondo, Karate, Judo, and Boxing. He will be a very challenging opponent but will also provide valuable lessons for all of you."
Some students began whispering to their desk mates, discussing strategies they would use when fighting Mr. Choi. Ryu remained silent in his seat, thinking about how to hold back his power so as not to stand out too much. He knew that if he unleashed his full strength, he could easily defeat Mr. Choi or even other teachers at the school, but he didn't want to attract unnecessary attention or make others feel uncomfortable.
"Additionally," continued Ms. Soojin in a slightly lower but still clearly audible voice, "those who succeed in winning or show extraordinary abilities during this test will receive special awards from the school. Besides a certificate of achievement, you will also receive scholarships for higher education and the opportunity to join our country's national martial arts team!"
This news made the entire class even more excited. Many of them dreamed of becoming professional martial arts athletes or entering prestigious universities with sports scholarships, so this opportunity was very valuable to them.
After giving this important announcement, Ms. Soojin began teaching the first lesson for the new semester – about classical Korean poetry written by famous 19th-century poets. However, even though they were following the lesson seriously, most students couldn't hide their curiosity and anticipation for the upcoming strength assessment.
After the first class ended, the students of Class 12-B were taken to the school's main arena by Ms. Soojin. The arena was a large sports hall located behind the main school building, with a spacious fighting area measuring approximately 20x20 meters with a floor covered in safe sports mats. Around the fighting area were seats that could accommodate hundreds of people, and at the front there was a table for judges and event officials.
When they arrived at the arena, fights were already underway with students from other classes. The sound of cheers and applause filled the room, creating an atmosphere full of energy and excitement. Ryu and Lis found their seats in the right stands, together with their classmates.
First up was a student from Class 12-A named Jung Jaehyun – the school's famous strong boxing athlete. Jaehyun entered the arena with confident steps, wearing boxing gear that complied with regulations. His face was full of focus and strong determination.
Mr. Choi Minho, who was already in the arena, gave Jaehyun a smile full of respect. The athletic teacher with short black hair wore a black martial arts training uniform with a black belt indicating his high level of expertise.
"Who will start first?" asked one of the judges sitting at the front table.
"I'll start, Sir!" answered Jaehyun in a strong and clear voice.
Without further ado, Jaehyun stepped forward quickly and threw a direct punch toward Mr. Choi's face. However, the experienced teacher easily dodged it by moving his head to the side nimbly. Mr. Choi then countered with a light kick toward Jaehyun's body, which the student managed to avoid quickly.
The fight proceeded with great tension and excitement. Jaehyun showed very good boxing techniques – every punch he threw was precise and full of power. He managed to land several targeted hits on Mr. Choi's body, although the teacher still looked calm and in control.
Mr. Choi himself did not use his full strength, instead only using about half of it to test Jaehyun's abilities. He delivered various types of attacks and different techniques to see how well the student could defend and react.
After about five minutes, Jaehyun found the perfect opportunity. When Mr. Choi delivered a high kick toward his head, Jaehyun quickly ducked and delivered a full-power punch directly to Mr. Choi's stomach. The teacher was slightly stunned and stepped back a few steps, giving Jaehyun the chance to deliver a final attack that forced Mr. Choi to concede.
"Great punch! Victory goes to Jung Jaehyun!" shouted one of the judges in a strong voice through the microphone.
The stands immediately erupted in cheers celebrating Jaehyun's victory. The student left the arena with a face full of joy and pride, greeted by his friends who gave him praise and appreciation. Mr. Choi also complimented Jaehyun, saying he had great potential to become a successful boxing athlete in the future.
Next up was a female student from Class 12-C named Lee Yuna, who was famous for her Taekwondo skills. Yuna was a member of the school's Taekwondo team who had won several provincial-level championships. She entered the arena with a graceful and respectful attitude toward her teacher.
After giving a respectful bow according to Taekwondo customs, the fight began immediately. Yuna showed very beautiful and precise Taekwondo movements – every kick and punch she threw was full of power and elegance. She managed to land several targeted attacks on Mr. Choi's body, surprising the teacher slightly with his student's abilities.
However, Mr. Choi did not stay idle. After observing Yuna's movements for a few minutes, the teacher began to use more of his strength. He showed various martial arts techniques, combining movements from different types of fighting sports to test Yuna's adaptability.
In the final round of the fight, which had entered its ninth minute, Mr. Choi delivered a very fast and powerful combination attack. Yuna tried to avoid it with all her might but was eventually hit by a light kick to her shoulder that forced her to concede.
"Victory goes to Choi Minho!" announced the judge in a clear voice.
Even though she lost, Yuna left the arena with a face full of respect and learning. Mr. Choi gave sincere praise to his student, saying she had extraordinary abilities and just needed more practice to reach a higher level. Yuna gladly accepted her teacher's advice and returned to her seat with stronger determination to improve her skills.
After that, several other students took turns coming up to fight against Mr. Choi. There was a student named Kim Minseok who had extraordinary Judo abilities and managed to win with his very skilled throwing techniques. There was also a female student named Park Jiwon who showed strength even greater than Mr. Choi's expectations, forcing the teacher to use almost full strength to defeat her. In addition, there were several students who willingly accepted defeat as valuable learning and an opportunity to improve themselves.
Each fight made the arena atmosphere even hotter and more energetic. Students waiting for their turn practiced calmly beside the arena, while others gave support and encouragement to their friends who were fighting. Cheers and applause never ceased from the stands, showing the high sportsmanship spirit possessed by all the school's students.
As the sun began to move toward midday, the arena atmosphere grew even more lively with various exciting fights. Several other teachers also came to watch the event, providing support and evaluating their students' abilities.
Finally, Ryu's name was called out in a strong and clear voice over the arena's sound system: "Next to come up for the fight – from Class 12-B, Ryu Kim!"
The voice made the entire arena fall silent for a moment before then echoing with cheers from Ryu's classmates. Ryu slowly stood up from his seat, feeling that all eyes were now on him. Lis immediately gave him support by holding his hand tightly:
"Good luck, Ryu! You can do it!" said Lis with a voice full of confidence and love. "Remember not to push yourself too hard, the most important thing is that you're safe and can show your best abilities."
Ryu gave Lis a warm smile before releasing her hand and walking toward the arena. He felt his heart beating fast with natural nervousness, but he quickly calmed himself by remembering his father's advice to stay calm and in control.
When Ryu entered the fighting area, Mr. Choi was already standing in the center in a ready stance. His teacher gave him a friendly and respectful smile: "Ryu Kim, right? I've heard a lot about you from your classmates. They say you have extraordinary abilities in various things. Let's see if that's true."
Ryu nodded politely and gave a respectful bow: "I'll do my best, Sir. Thank you for your guidance."
Before they could start fighting, strong and steady footsteps were heard from the direction of the arena entrance. Everyone watching the fight immediately turned toward the source of the sound, and was surprised to find their principal himself – Mr. Park Hyunwoo – walking toward the arena with steady and respectful steps.
Mr. Park Hyunwoo had been the principal for over ten years. His wise face with slight wrinkles around his eyes showed that he had entered middle age, but his body still looked athletic and strong like a young man. He wore a formal dark blue suit with a neat black tie, and his black hair, which was slightly gray at the temples, was tied neatly at the back of his head.
When Mr. Park entered the fighting area, the entire arena fell silent in respect. Mr. Choi immediately gave a respectful bow and stepped aside to give his principal the opportunity to act as Ryu's opponent.
"Please forgive me for interrupting an event that has been well-planned," said Mr. Park in a calm voice but full of power that could penetrate the hearts of everyone who heard it. "I have been following this strength assessment from the beginning and am very impressed with the abilities shown by our students. However, when I heard that Ryu Kim would be fighting next, I felt a strong desire to be his opponent myself."
A buzz filled the arena again. No one had ever imagined that the principal would come down directly to the arena to fight a student. Several teachers and judges looked at each other with surprised but respectful expressions toward their principal, who was known as a very wise person with extraordinary martial arts abilities – even stronger than Mr. Choi Minho.
"I have heard a lot about Ryu Kim's abilities," continued Mr. Park as he looked directly into Ryu's eyes with a gaze full of attention and curiosity. "Both from his always excellent academic achievements and from stories of the courage and strength he showed when facing difficult situations. Therefore, I feel that I myself am the most suitable person to test the true abilities and strength of our talented student."
Ryu was slightly surprised by this decision, but he still maintained his calm and polite demeanor. He bowed respectfully to Mr. Park: "If that is your wish, Sir, I will be ready to face you with all my heart. Thank you for your guidance."
Mr. Park smiled warmly and began removing his suit jacket and rolling up his shirt sleeves, revealing strong and well-trained muscles in his arms. He then did some light stretches to prepare his body before the fight began.
"I won't use my full strength at first, Ryu," said Mr. Park in a friendly but fully focused voice. "I want to see your true abilities without excessive pressure. Please start whenever you're ready – show me what you can do."
Ryu nodded and began taking his initial fighting stance, which he had learned from his father. He decided to use basic boxing techniques and some basic Taekwondo movements he had learned on his own, trying his best not to unleash the supernatural power within him. He stepped forward slowly and threw a light punch toward Mr. Park's face. However, the experienced principal easily dodged it by simply moving his head slightly to the side. Mr. Park then countered with a low kick toward Ryu's legs, which Ryu managed to avoid quickly by jumping slightly upward.
After fighting with basic movements for a few minutes, Ryu began to realize that Mr. Park had much higher martial arts abilities than he had imagined. The principal's movements were extremely fast and precise – every attack he delivered was on target and full of well-controlled power. Ryu had to use a small portion of his actual strength to match Mr. Park's movements, trying to stay at the level of ordinary human ability.
However, as the fight continued, it became increasingly difficult for Ryu to hold back the true power within him. When Mr. Park began to increase the speed and power of his attacks, Ryu's body instinctively responded by releasing some of his supernatural energy. A faint purple glow began to slowly appear around his hands and feet, making his movements faster and stronger than usual.
Mr. Park, who had initially looked calm and only used about half his strength, began to show a surprised expression. He could feel that Ryu's strength far exceeded that of an ordinary student – perhaps even surpassing that of most professional martial arts athletes he had ever met. Immediately, he too began to use more of his strength, showing extraordinary martial arts techniques that he rarely displayed to others.
"Very impressive, Ryu," said Mr. Park, his breathing starting to become slightly heavy after dodging a quick attack from Ryu. "You have extraordinary potential. But is this your full strength? Or are you still hiding something from me?"
Ryu could only give a brief smile without answering directly. He knew that if he unleashed his full strength, this fight could end quickly and might raise many difficult questions to answer. However, he also didn't want to disrespect his principal by not giving his best.
The fight grew more intense as time passed. The two figures clashed at speeds difficult to see with the naked eye – every movement of their hands and feet produced loud cracking sounds from colliding with the air or with each other's bodies. The wind generated by their fast movements made their uniforms flutter strongly, and even caused some parts of the mat on the arena floor to shift slightly.
In the stands, everyone watched this epic fight with bated breath. Lis held her hands tightly together, her forehead furrowed with worry but her eyes full of admiration for Ryu's abilities. Ryu's classmates like Jaehyun and Yuna also couldn't take their eyes off the arena, mesmerized by the fight they were witnessing.
Mr. Choi and the other teachers also watched with full attention, some of them showing surprised expressions at seeing Ryu's extraordinary strength and how their principal had to truly bring out his best abilities to match him. Some of them began to wonder about the true background of this talented student who had only transferred to the school a few months ago.
After the fight had been going on for about ten minutes, both participants began to show clear signs of exhaustion. Sweat streamed heavily down their faces, their breathing became heavier, and their movements slowed slightly compared to the start of the fight. However, their fighting spirit remained high and neither showed any signs of wanting to give up.
Ryu felt that he could barely hold back the supernatural power within him any longer. Every time he tried to control it, his body instinctively responded by releasing more energy to withstand Mr. Park's increasingly powerful attacks. The purple glow around his body became increasingly visible, even noticeable to everyone watching the fight.
Meanwhile, Mr. Park had also started using almost all of his strength. His usually calm and wise face was now full of focus and tension, showing that he really had to fight with all his might to match the extraordinary strength possessed by his student. He gathered his strength to deliver a final attack that he hoped would end the fight in a fair and sportsmanlike way.
"Who are you really, Ryu Kim?" whispered Mr. Park, his breath heavy as his eyes remained fixed on the young figure in front of him who held so many mysteries. "Behind these extraordinary abilities of yours, what truly makes you strong?"
Ryu could only give a gentle smile before starting to gather the remaining strength within him. He felt that he could no longer hold back – he had to use some of his supernatural power to continue this fight fairly. The air around the arena became increasingly tense, as if sensing the great power that was about to be released.
Everyone in the arena realized that the fight they were watching was not an ordinary one like they had imagined. This was a meeting between two individuals with extraordinary abilities, and no one knew who would emerge as the winner – or even how this fight would end...
END OF CHAPTER 9