Dawn broke over the Jin Clan compound, painting the sky in shades of amber and rose. Tae-Won had been awake for nearly an hour, seated in lotus position on the wooden floor of his quarters, deep in the third circuit of the Azure Dragon method. His meridians hummed with energy as he guided Qi through increasingly complex pathways.

[Body Refinement Stage 3: 27.8% progression toward Stage 4]

[Meridian expansion: 158% of baseline]

Three days had passed since Elder Jin had taught him the Azure Dragon method, and the results had exceeded even Tae-Won's expectations. The breakthrough to Body Refinement Stage 3 had come yesterday, during an intensive meridian expansion exercise under Elder Jin's supervision. Unlike the chaotic breakthroughs Tae-Won had experienced in the slums, this one had been methodical and controlled, with Elder Jin's guidance ensuring optimal Qi pathways.

Still, Tae-Won knew it wouldn't be enough. Jin Taekyung would arrive tomorrow, and the gap between Body Refinement Stage 3 and Core Formation Stage 1 remained vast. Four full cultivation stages separated them—a gulf that no amount of talent or technique could fully bridge in a single day.

A knock at his door broke his concentration. "Enter," he called, allowing his Qi to settle naturally in his dantian.

Liu Feng stepped inside, carrying a tray with steaming tea and a small porcelain container. His eyes widened slightly as he took in Tae-Won's appearance.

"Your breakthrough has stabilized impressively," Liu Feng observed. "Even to my limited senses, your aura has gained significant density."

Tae-Won nodded, accepting the observation without comment. Liu Feng had proven himself useful over the past days, providing clan information and handling administrative matters that would have otherwise distracted from Tae-Won's intensive training schedule.

"Elder Jin sent this," Liu Feng continued, placing the tray on a low table and gesturing to the porcelain container. "He said you should apply it to your meridian convergence points before today's combat training."

Tae-Won opened the container, revealing a pale blue salve that emitted a subtle herbal scent. "Meridian Reinforcement Balm," he identified, recognizing it from texts he'd studied.

"Yes," Liu Feng confirmed, looking impressed. "Elder Jin prepares it himself using rare ingredients from the clan's restricted garden. It's typically reserved for Inner Disciples preparing for breakthrough attempts."

Another sign of Elder Jin's investment in his progress. Tae-Won filed this information away as he poured two cups of tea, offering one to Liu Feng. "What news from the city?"

Over the past days, he had established a routine with Liu Feng—morning reports on clan politics and city developments, followed by updates on the street children's progress. This intelligence network, though still in its infancy, was already providing valuable context for navigating his new position.

Liu Feng sipped his tea before responding. "Jin Taekyung's imminent arrival has caused quite a stir among the disciples. Many are placing wagers on how long you'll last against him." He winced slightly at his own bluntness. "Forgive me, but that's the reality of the situation."

"Truth serves me better than flattery," Tae-Won replied evenly. "Continue."

"Most believe he intends to humiliate you publicly to undermine Elder Jin's decision to take you as a disciple. The political faction supporting Jin Taekyung's father has been particularly vocal about an outsider receiving such an honor."

Tae-Won had suspected as much, but something in Liu Feng's tone suggested there was more. "You seem hesitant. Speak freely."

Liu Feng glanced toward the door before lowering his voice. "It's said that Jin Taekyung isn't merely talented—he's hailed as one of the heavenly geniuses of his generation. The gem of the Jin Clan. But his techniques aren't just for show. He's legitimately powerful." He paused. "And vindictive. Those who cross him often regret it."

Tae-Won's eyes narrowed slightly. A heavenly genius who used his gifts to bully those beneath him. The type of entitled noble that had most infuriated Emperor Reinhardt—talented individuals who squandered their potential on petty displays of dominance rather than meaningful advancement.

"And the children?" Tae-Won asked, setting aside his growing irritation with Jin Taekyung.

Liu Feng's expression brightened. "They're adapting well to the new accommodations. Ho-Jin has implemented the training schedule you designed, and several are showing notable progress with the basic cultivation exercises."

"Any word from Min-Ji?" Tae-Won asked casually, though the answer held strategic importance.

"She made contact with Ho-Jin yesterday," Liu Feng reported. "Apparently, she's established connections with several servants from the Zhao Clan households. Nothing significant yet, but she's positioned for information gathering as you requested."

Tae-Won nodded, pleased with this development. Min-Ji's initial distrust was evolving into a valuable asset—her network in the slums complemented his growing influence within the Jin Clan. Together, they formed the beginnings of an intelligence apparatus that could one day rival what Emperor Reinhardt had commanded.

After finishing his tea, Tae-Won applied the Meridian Reinforcement Balm to the specified points on his body. The sensation was immediate—a cooling tingle that rapidly transformed into penetrating warmth as the medicinal compounds seeped into his meridians.

[Meridian resilience increased by 32%]

[Qi control precision enhanced by 24%]

[Physical impact tolerance elevated by 39%]

[System Notice: Continued development may unlock Path to Core Formation I]

The last notification caught Tae-Won's attention. Unlike his previous life's experiences, the System occasionally provided glimpses of potential future developments. This was the first mention of Core Formation—the realm that Jin Taekyung currently occupied. While still distant, the mere suggestion that a path might be opening was significant.

----------------------------------------

Elder Jin waited in the private training arena, a wooden practice sword held casually in one hand. Unlike their previous sessions, today the elder wore light combat robes that allowed for greater freedom of movement.

"Your breakthrough to Stage 3 has accelerated our training schedule," Elder Jin began as Tae-Won entered. "The Azure Dragon method is not merely for meridian expansion—it also forms the foundation for the Azure Dragon Combat Arts, techniques that channel Qi through optimized pathways to enhance both offensive and defensive capabilities."

He tossed the practice sword to Tae-Won, who caught it smoothly. "Today, we integrate your elevated cultivation with practical application."

What followed was the most intense training session Tae-Won had experienced since his rebirth. Elder Jin demonstrated a series of sword forms that appeared deceptively simple but required precise Qi manipulation to execute properly. Each movement corresponded to specific meridian pathways Tae-Won had been cultivating.

"The Azure Dragon Coils," Elder Jin named the first technique, demonstrating a spiraling motion that gathered Qi before releasing it in a controlled burst through the sword. "The key is not force but timing—synchronized expansion and contraction of your meridians with physical movement."

Tae-Won attempted the technique, his body remembering similar patterns from his previous life while adapting to the unique requirements of cultivation-enhanced combat. His first attempt produced a visible ripple of Qi that dissipated before reaching its target.

"Again," Elder Jin commanded. "Slower. Feel the connection between your dantian, meridian flow, and the sword's movement."

On his third attempt, Tae-Won found the correct rhythm. His Qi flowed through the prescribed path, coiling through his arm and into the practice sword, manifesting as a blue-tinged arc that extended nearly a foot beyond the wooden blade.

Elder Jin nodded approvingly. "Good. Now the defensive counterpart—Azure Dragon Scales."

This technique required simultaneous Qi circulation through multiple meridian points, creating a flexible defensive layer that could absorb or deflect incoming attacks. The principle was similar to energy distribution techniques Emperor Reinhardt had mastered, though the implementation differed significantly in a cultivation-based system.

After demonstrating the basics, Elder Jin tested Tae-Won's grasp of the technique with controlled strikes. The first blow bypassed Tae-Won's defense entirely, sending him sliding backward several feet.

"Your Qi is too concentrated," Elder Jin critiqued. "The Azure Dragon Scales require even distribution across multiple points. Think of water flowing over rocks—adapting to the surface rather than trying to resist it directly."

Tae-Won adjusted his approach, focusing on flexibility rather than raw defensive power. When Elder Jin struck again, Tae-Won's Qi layer bent without breaking, absorbing much of the impact and allowing him to maintain his stance.

"Better," Elder Jin said. "Now counter."

For hours, they worked through the foundational techniques of the Azure Dragon Combat Arts. By midday, Tae-Won had grasped the basic principles of three offensive and two defensive techniques—not mastery, but enough foundation to build upon.

As they paused for a brief rest, Elder Jin assessed Tae-Won's progress with calculating eyes. "Your rate of improvement is remarkable. Most disciples require weeks to grasp what you've learned in a single session."

Tae-Won bowed respectfully. "Your instruction makes the path clear, Master."

Elder Jin raised an eyebrow at this diplomatic response. "Perhaps. Or perhaps your 'street survival' required more than simple instinct." The statement hung between them, an invitation to elaborate on Tae-Won's mysterious background.

Instead of taking the bait, Tae-Won asked, "Will these techniques be sufficient against Jin Taekyung?"

Elder Jin's expression grew serious. "No. Not at your current level of cultivation. The gap between Body Refinement and Core Formation is too great."

Tae-Won's jaw tightened almost imperceptibly. The more he heard about Jin Taekyung, the more a familiar fire kindled within him—the same indignation Emperor Reinhardt had felt toward those who abused their power and station.

"You seem unusually focused today," Elder Jin observed, his ancient eyes missing nothing. "I sense you're training with more... intensity than our plan requires."

Tae-Won met his gaze. "Would it be so bad if those who oppose you felt threatened, Elder Jin?"

A thin smile crossed the old man's face. "Threatened enough to oppose the previous Patriarch?" When Tae-Won's eyes widened slightly, Elder Jin chuckled. "Previous Patriarch... I haven't been called myself that in quite some time."

"You were the Clan Leader," Tae-Won stated rather than asked.

"Indeed. But that's a tale for another time." Elder Jin's expression turned serious again. "To answer your question—yes, it would be bad. Unless they wish to seek death or punishment, they would come for me instead. But you would still be in danger outside the clan's protection. Are you certain about this course?"

Tae-Won's eyes hardened. "I hate people who go around not knowing their place. People who have been given opportunity and the power to help others, only to go around flaunting their status and bullying those beneath them."

Elder Jin studied him for a long moment. "You realize saying such things about a Jin Clan noble could be considered treasonous."

"You asked for my thoughts, Master."

"So I did." Elder Jin sighed. "While Jin Taekyung has many faults, he is still my grandson and someone who, despite everything, respects me and consults with me. That's precisely why he wishes to challenge you."

Tae-Won looked up sharply. "What do you mean?"

"Taekyung is jealous of your position," Elder Jin stated simply.

"Jealous? Of me?" Tae-Won couldn't hide his surprise. "He's hailed as a heavenly genius. Why would he—"

"He wished to become my disciple, and I rejected him."

The training arena fell silent as Tae-Won processed this revelation. "Why?"

Elder Jin walked to a wooden bench at the edge of the arena and sat down. "Do you remember the answer you gave me when I asked what comes to your mind when fighting an opponent?"

"Yes," Tae-Won replied. "I said I see them as a collection of vulnerabilities—something I can exploit to win the fight."

"A fair response. A tactical one that indicated years of battle and wisdom." Elder Jin's expression darkened. "Would you like to know what Taekyung said?"

This story originates from Royal Road. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.

Tae-Won nodded.

"He said he sees his opponents as insects to crush. People who should grovel at his feet." Elder Jin's voice carried no judgment, only a weary acceptance. "Taekyung undoubtedly has talent, but the reason I couldn't accept him was that he held malice as well as the ego of a proud noble—a trait inherited from his father. He sees everyone weaker than him as beneath him."

The old man stared into the distance. "I tried multiple times to steer him toward a better path. When he approached me about becoming my disciple, I refused, saying I wouldn't be accepting any disciples."

"And yet here I am," Tae-Won said quietly.

"Yes. To my own grandson, I refused, saying I didn't want to teach. Yet here I am with a new disciple—a person from the slums, no less." Elder Jin's eyes refocused on Tae-Won. "Do you understand what that means for tomorrow's match?"

Tae-Won nodded slowly. "It's not just about politics. It's personal."

"Very personal," Elder Jin confirmed. "My grandson is talented and strong, but he loves to mock opponents because no one has put him in his place. He will see you not just as a rival disciple, but as living proof of my rejection."

Tae-Won absorbed this information, reevaluating his strategy. The match would be even more dangerous than he'd anticipated, but also potentially more rewarding. If handled correctly, it could establish his position within the clan more firmly than any planned display of moderate skill.

"Master, with your permission, I would like to continue training," Tae-Won said, rising to his feet. "If Jin Taekyung intends to make an example of me, I should at least be prepared to respond appropriately."

Elder Jin studied him for a long moment. "Very well. But remember our original purpose—to demonstrate enough skill to justify my interest without presenting such a challenge that Taekyung feels compelled to eliminate you."

Tae-Won bowed respectfully, but as he straightened, there was a new determination in his eyes—one that Elder Jin recognized all too well.

"Let us continue with the Azure Dragon Fang technique," the elder said with a sigh, rising to his feet. "Pay particularly close attention to the final sequence—it contains a defensive transition that may prove useful against fire-attribute attacks."

----------------------------------------

Evening found Tae-Won sitting cross-legged beside a small pond in a secluded corner of the Jin Clan gardens. His muscles ached from the day's training, but his mind remained clear as he processed everything he had learned.

[Current Realm: Body Refinement Stage 3]

[Cultivation Progress: 31.4% toward Body Refinement Stage 4]

[Qi reserves: 82% of maximum capacity]

[Meridian expansion: 167% of baseline]

[Technique Proficiency - Azure Dragon Coils: 51%]

[Technique Proficiency - Azure Dragon Scales: 47%]

[Technique Proficiency - Azure Dragon Fang: 39%

] [System Notice: Path to Core Formation I unlocking - 8% complete]

The System's assessment confirmed what he already knew—significant progress, but still far from sufficient for the coming challenge. One day remained before Jin Taekyung's arrival. One day to prepare for a confrontation that would set the tone for his position within the Jin Clan.

The sound of light footsteps drew his attention. Madam Liu approached, her severe expression softened slightly by the fading evening light.

"Elder Jin requested I provide you with this," she said without preamble, extending a thin jade slip. "It contains the complete cultivation records of Jin Taekyung from his entry into the Body Refinement realm through his advancement to Core Formation."

Tae-Won accepted the jade slip with a respectful bow. "Thank you, Madam Liu. This is most helpful."

She studied him with sharp eyes. "I opposed Elder Jin's decision to take you as his disciple," she stated bluntly. "An outsider with unknown background presents too many variables in our current political climate."

Tae-Won met her gaze steadily. "Your caution serves the clan well. If our positions were reversed, I would likely share your concerns."

This honest acknowledgment seemed to surprise her. "Yet you accepted the position despite knowing it places you at the center of clan politics."

"Opportunity often comes paired with risk," Tae-Won replied. "The question is not whether risks exist, but whether they can be managed."

Madam Liu's expression remained neutral, though something in her eyes suggested reassessment. "Indeed. And how do you intend to 'manage' the risk presented by Jin Taekyung?"

"By understanding him," Tae-Won said, indicating the jade slip. "Knowledge of an opponent's patterns reveals both strengths to avoid and weaknesses to exploit."

"A strategic approach," she noted. "Most young disciples rely solely on cultivation techniques and raw power."

"I lack the luxury of overwhelming strength," Tae-Won said simply. "Alternative paths must be considered."

Madam Liu studied him for a long moment before speaking again. "Elder Jin believes you possess rare potential. I remain unconvinced, but..." She paused, choosing her words carefully. "Your awareness of the situation is... appropriate."

With that qualified assessment, she turned to leave, then stopped. "One piece of advice, young disciple. Jin Taekyung has a particular weakness for public recognition. His techniques are often selected for maximum visual impact rather than efficient Qi utilization."

Tae-Won bowed deeply, recognizing the value of this insight. "Thank you for your guidance, Madam Liu."

After she departed, Tae-Won pressed the jade slip to his forehead, absorbing the information contained within. Jin Taekyung's cultivation journey unfolded in his mind—a record of remarkable talent coupled with aggressive advancement pace. His breakthrough to Core Formation had occurred nearly a year ahead of his peers, earning him significant status within the clan.

But as Madam Liu had hinted, there were patterns in his technique selection and combat approach that suggested prioritization of dramatic effects over efficiency. He favored fire-attribute techniques that produced visible manifestations—impressive to observers but potentially leaving openings for a perceptive opponent.

More concerning was his temperament. The records documented several "disciplinary incidents" following perceived slights or challenges to his authority. Jin Taekyung responded to threats—real or imagined—with overwhelming force, establishing a reputation that deterred further challenges.

Tae-Won closed his eyes, integrating this information with his own observations and the System's analysis. A strategy began to form—not merely for survival, which had been his initial goal, but for something more. Jin Taekyung represented exactly the type of person that Emperor Reinhardt had most despised—talented, privileged, and using those advantages to dominate rather than elevate.

He would need to demonstrate enough skill to justify Elder Jin's interest, certainly. But perhaps it was also time to show a "heavenly genius" that even those born in the slums could bite back.

----------------------------------------

The following morning, Tae-Won requested permission to visit the street children. Elder Jin granted it, perhaps recognizing the value of mental preparation away from the compound's politically charged atmosphere.

Liu Feng accompanied him as before, though their relationship had evolved from guide and newcomer to something approaching partnership. As they walked through the city streets, Liu Feng provided updates on clan developments and rumors surrounding Jin Taekyung's imminent arrival.

"They say he's bringing several Core Formation disciples from his father's faction," Liu Feng reported. "A show of strength, obviously."

Tae-Won nodded, unsurprised. "And Elder Jin's response?"

"None officially," Liu Feng said. "Though I noticed several Nascent Soul elders who normally remain in seclusion have suddenly taken interest in tomorrow's 'friendly match.'"

Another piece of the political puzzle. Elder Jin was ensuring that any excessive action by Taekyung would be witnessed by those with the power to intervene.

When they arrived at the children's residence, Tae-Won was pleased to find significant improvements. The courtyard had been transformed into an organized training area where several children practiced the basic cultivation exercises he had taught them. Inside, the living spaces were clean and ordered, with clear evidence of established routines and responsibilities.

Ho-Jin greeted them at the entrance, his bearing more confident than their last meeting. "We've implemented the training schedule as you instructed," he reported without preamble. "Li-Na has organized study groups for those showing aptitude with meridian activation."

Tae-Won nodded approvingly. "Show me."

For the next hour, he observed the children's progress, making corrections to their techniques and providing additional instruction where needed. Their advancement, while modest by cultivation standards, was remarkable given their backgrounds and limited resources.

During a break, Ho-Jin pulled him aside. "Min-Ji sent a message," he said quietly. "She has information about Jin Taekyung that might interest you."

Tae-Won raised an eyebrow. "When can she deliver it?"

"Tonight," Ho-Jin replied. "She'll meet you at the old tanner's district after sunset."

While Liu Feng demonstrated a cleansing technique to the younger children, Tae-Won considered this development. Leaving the compound after dark would be challenging but not impossible. The information Min-Ji had gathered might prove valuable for tomorrow's confrontation.

"Tell her I'll be there," he decided.

After finishing their visit, Tae-Won and Liu Feng returned to the compound for afternoon training with Elder Jin. Today's session focused on refinement of the techniques introduced yesterday, with particular emphasis on energy conservation and precise Qi control.

"Against a superior opponent, efficiency becomes paramount," Elder Jin explained as they practiced. "Jin Taekyung possesses greater raw power, but his techniques often waste energy on unnecessary displays."

By evening, Tae-Won's control of the Azure Dragon techniques had improved significantly, though still far from mastery. As they concluded training, Elder Jin placed a hand on his shoulder.

"Tomorrow will be challenging," the Elder said, his voice uncharacteristically gentle. "Remember that this is merely one step in a longer journey. Whatever the outcome, your path as my disciple continues."

Tae-Won bowed respectfully. "I will represent you honorably, Master."

After a light meal and evening meditation, Tae-Won waited until the compound quieted before slipping out through a servant's entrance Liu Feng had identified. Moving through the nighttime streets required all the stealth skills he had developed in the slums, particularly as he approached the old tanner's district—territory controlled by rival gangs before his intervention.

The abandoned tannery building stood dark against the night sky, its collapsed roof creating jagged shadows in the moonlight. As Tae-Won approached cautiously, he extended his Qi perception, scanning for potential threats.

"You've changed," Min-Ji's voice came from the shadows. She stepped into view, her thin frame silhouetted against a crumbling wall. "Your aura is different."

Tae-Won nodded acknowledgment. "Proper training accelerates development."

Min-Ji studied him with calculating eyes. At fourteen, she had already developed the wariness of someone much older, a product of slum survival that Tae-Won recognized all too well.

"Jin Taekyung visited the pleasure houses in the western district last night," she reported without preamble. "He got drunk and boasted about putting the 'slum rat' in his place. Said he'd make an example of you."

Tae-Won felt a familiar cold anger settle in his chest—the same controlled rage Emperor Reinhardt had channeled against nobles who abused their power. "Details of his statements?"

"He specifically mentioned using the Three Heavenly Flames technique to overwhelm you quickly. Said it would be 'appropriately humiliating' for a street orphan to face the power of true Jin Clan heritage." Her eyes narrowed. "He also mentioned that his father expects him to demonstrate why the clan leadership should eventually pass to their branch of the family."

This aligned with what Tae-Won had already surmised, though the specific technique mention was valuable. The Three Heavenly Flames was documented in Jin Taekyung's cultivation records—a powerful fire-attribute attack that manifested as three distinct flame pillars, designed to trap opponents between converging fire walls.

"Anything else?"

Min-Ji hesitated, then continued. "One of the Zhao Clan servant girls overheard her master discussing your situation. Apparently, several prominent clans might be watching tomorrow's match with interest. They see it as a test of Elder Jin's judgment and influence."

The political dimensions expanded beyond the Jin Clan internal politics. This match had implications for inter-clan relations as well—another layer of complexity to navigate.

"You've done well," Tae-Won acknowledged. "Continue building your network. Focus particularly on servant connections to the major clans."

Min-Ji's expression remained guarded. "The others are settling into their comfortable new home. They may forget where they came from."

"And you believe that would be a mistake?" Tae-Won asked.

"I believe dependence breeds vulnerability," she replied bluntly. "Even on you."

Tae-Won nodded, respecting her caution. "Independence and alliance aren't mutually exclusive. Your network serves both our interests for now."

"And when our interests diverge?" she challenged.

"Then we'll negotiate new terms," Tae-Won replied simply. "Power recognizes power, Min-Ji. Continue building yours."

This pragmatic response seemed to satisfy her more than false promises of eternal loyalty would have. With a slight nod, she melted back into the shadows, leaving Tae-Won to make his way back to the compound.

As he slipped back into his quarters, Tae-Won's mind was already formulating adjustments to his strategy based on Min-Ji's intelligence. Jin Taekyung's intention to use the Three Heavenly Flames technique presented both danger and opportunity. The technique was indeed powerful, but its theatrical nature created predictable patterns that could potentially be exploited.

[System Analysis: Three Heavenly Flames Technique]

[Primary vulnerability: 2.7-second formation delay between initial Qi gathering and flame manifestation]

[Secondary vulnerability: Central flame pillar requires 31% more energy than outer pillars, creating momentary imbalance]

[Calculation: Exploitation of vulnerabilities could potentially nullify 42% of technique effectiveness]

[Warning: Successfully countering Core Formation technique requires precise timing and execution]

[System Notice: Path to Core Formation I unlocking - 12% complete]

Tae-Won smiled slightly as he settled into meditation position. Tomorrow's match would certainly be challenging, but perhaps not entirely hopeless. His Body Refinement Stage 3 cultivation, while still far below Jin Taekyung's Core Formation, gave him at least a foundation to work with. More importantly, the System's gradual unlocking of the Path to Core Formation suggested potential for future growth that even Elder Jin might not anticipate.

As dawn approached, Tae-Won completed his final preparations. The match was scheduled for mid-morning, giving him a few hours for meditation and Qi circulation. He guided his energy through the Azure Dragon meridian pathways, feeling the strength and resilience that had developed over the past days.

[Current Realm: Body Refinement Stage 3]

[Cultivation Progress: 37.2% toward Body Refinement Stage 4]

[Meridian expansion: 178% of baseline]

[Combat readiness: Optimal within current realm limitations]

[System Notice: Path to Core Formation I unlocking - 15% complete]

A soft knock at his door signaled the arrival of Liu Feng with his morning tea. Outside, the Jin Clan compound was already stirring with anticipation for the coming confrontation. Disciples hurried through the courtyards, securing favorable viewing positions. Elders from various factions gathered in small groups, their political calculations almost palpable in the morning air.

Within hours, Tae-Won would face Jin Taekyung—Core Formation cultivator, acknowledged clan prodigy, and political rival. The outcome of their match would establish Tae-Won's position within the clan hierarchy and determine the course of his cultivation journey.

But unlike yesterday, Tae-Won's goal had shifted. No longer would he merely aim to survive and show moderate skill. A heavenly genius who looked down on others, who mocked those beneath him, who wasted his time on domination rather than advancement—such a person needed to learn that even slum rats had teeth.

With calm focus, Tae-Won sipped his tea and prepared for the challenge ahead. Whatever happened in the arena today, he was determined to surprise everyone—perhaps even the System itself.