That evening, Kael stood on the academy's balcony, gazing at the stormy horizon. The System pulsed, reminding him of progress:
"Level 10 achieved. Shadow Strike evolution unlocked."
Lyra approached quietly, handing him a small, glowing pendant. "This was left for you," she whispered.
Kael examined it. Arcane runes shimmered across its surface. Power? Or a warning?
Suddenly, shadows moved across the walls below. Kael's eyes narrowed. "Trouble doesn't wait," he muttered.
A cold voice echoed from the distance: "Dark Sovereign… your trials have only begun. Prepare yourself."
Kael clenched his fists. I've survived worse. I'll rise stronger.
Lightning split the sky, and the adventure of the Dark Sovereign continued.