The Awakened murmured in shock at Caden's sudden appearance.
"What… just happened…?"
Caden, as cold as ever, walked calmly yet powerfully toward Aaron. Aaron only laughed, staring at him as if this were all just an amusing show.
Meanwhile, Aera moved closer to Nova, who stood frozen, her eyes wide in disbelief. Nova whispered, her voice shaking:
"Was… his intervention part of the plan…?"
Aera smiled softly.
"No… I don't think so."
Nova still couldn't process what was happening.
Facing Aaron, Caden flashed a cold, mocking smile.
"Now… do you see who's stronger between the two of you?"
Aaron leaned in and hissed in his ear:
"I don't care. I know you helped her cheat… you son of a b*tch."
Caden smirked even colder.
"Oh… is that what you think?"
Suddenly, using his power, he sent Aaron flying violently against the arena wall. The crowd froze in stunned silence.
Nova grabbed Caden's arm, her bitter gaze locking onto his.
"You forgot… this was my fight. I wasn't done with him."
Aera quickly moved in, whispering to Nova:
"Nova… he kinda just saved your life… and everyone's watching."
Across the room, Aaron was helped up by his teammates. Shoving them away, he shouted furiously:
"Get off me, idiots!"
He charged at Caden, fist raised to punch him. But Caden caught his fist effortlessly with one hand. His pupils glowed a deep, terrifying blue, and Aaron began trembling with fear.
Suddenly, several men dressed in black entered the arena. At their sight, all the students stood up, terrified. Whispers erupted:
"What are they doing here…?"
"They're the Grand Chief's men… this must be serious…"
One of the black-clad men stepped forward and spoke with authority:
"Caden Storm. The Grand Chief summons you, along with the other Chosen."
Caden's eyes returned to normal. Without sparing Aaron another glance, he answered calmly:
"Tell him… we'll be there right away."
The Grand Chief's office was located on the top floor of the main tower, a black skyscraper with tinted windows overlooking the entire city.
Upon entering, the first thing that struck anyone was the vastness of the room, illuminated only by the cold light filtering through heavy gray curtains. The walls were covered in dark polished wood panels, decorated with minimalist paintings and ancient calligraphy symbolizing strength, honor, and power.
At the center stood an enormous black marble desk, as long as a conference table, perfectly reflecting every ray of light. Resting upon it were only an ultra-thin computer, a few neatly stacked files, and a small bonsai tree, pruned with flawless precision.
Behind the desk stretched a massive reinforced glass wall display, showcasing ancient weapons: katanas, short blades, daggers, and war trophies, each arranged in meticulous order. Beside it stood a locked cabinet containing classified documents and magical relics sealed under powerful protection.
The black polished wooden floor echoed every footstep. On either side were large gray leather armchairs for visitors. But the most imposing feature was the Grand Chief's chair itself: a modern black and silver throne with a high back, engraved with symbols etched into steel.
The room carried a faint scent of black incense and burnt wood, a mysterious and intimidating blend. It radiated power, discipline, and fear. No one entered this place without reason. And no one left untouched by his gaze.
As they entered the room, the overwhelming pressure became almost suffocating.
The Grand Chief sat behind his massive black marble desk. Despite his silver hair, his face looked no older than thirty-five, firm and completely expressionless. He didn't even glance up as the Chosen Ones entered.
His cold voice sliced through the silence.
— The Director is dead. And according to some rumors, you're the murderer, he said, staring straight into Caden's eyes.
Without moving from his seat, he raised a finger. Instantly, a cut appeared across Caden's cheek, a thin line of blood trickling down.
Caden remained unfazed and replied in an equally cold voice:
— Yes. That's correct.
The Grand Chief let out a chilling smile.
— I will deal with you later… For now, I want to talk to you two, he said, turning his gaze to Ren Samike and Emron Kade. You two… are you really Chosen Ones?
No one replied. His voice suddenly boomed, glacial and terrifying.
— I asked you a question. Are you Chosen Ones?
Both young men shivered before stammering:
— Y-yes…
The Grand Chief erupted into laughter, so loud the entire room seemed to shake. He grabbed a newspaper from his desk and threw it at Ren Samike's face.
— You make me laugh. Look at this article. You call yourselves Chosen Ones, yet globally, you're worthless. Two countries have already surpassed us, and you still dare hold your heads high? You're a disgrace to this nation. If I could, I'd throw you out right now.
Both of them lowered their heads, biting their lips in shame.
— Get out. Now. And know this: you are suspended for a month. If you don't return stronger, I will make sure you disappear permanently.
They trembled, their voices breaking as they whispered:
— Th… thank you, Grand Chief.
They left the room without another word.
The Grand Chief turned his icy smile toward the remaining group.
— I believe it's your turn… bunch of fools.
Aaron swallowed hard in fear, while Caden stared back into the Grand Chief's eyes with his usual cold, unreadable gaze.