Chapter 22: The Rookie Fight

The tension in the air was palpable as I faced off against Victor Blackthorn, also known as "Rookie Thunder." His confident smirk remained firmly in place as we stood poised for combat. I couldn't afford to back down, not in front of the recruits and onlookers who had witnessed his challenge.

With determination coursing through my veins, I launched a punch at Victor, my fist aimed squarely at his jaw. But to my surprise, he effortlessly blocked my attack with a fluid, almost casual movement. It was clear that Victor possessed formidable combat skills, and I was quickly realizing that this fight would be far from easy.

Victor taunted me, his laughter echoing in my ears. "Is that all you've got, newbie? You're in way over your head."

My frustration grew with each taunting word, but I couldn't allow myself to lose control. As I faced off against Victor, a strange sensation gripped me once again. My vision blurred, and I could feel the power surging within me, a power that seemed linked to the brilliant purple glow of my eyes.

But before I could fully harness this hidden strength, before I could unleash it upon my opponent, everything went black. I felt a searing pain in my jaw, and the world spun around me. It took me a moment to realize that I had been knocked out in a single, devastating punch from Victor.

The sounds of the recruits and onlookers faded into a distant, echoing murmur as I lay on the ground, my consciousness slipping away. The last thing I saw before darkness claimed me was Victor Blackthorn, standing over me with a triumphant grin.