the visionary

Responses to the Challenges Received: After the Hogoblin incident, Rafa decided it was time to respond to the challenges he had received earlier. He knew that these confrontations were not just tests of strength, but also opportunities to reinforce his reputation and demonstrate that he was not someone easily defeated.

First Duel: Thalor, the Glacial: The first to face Rafa was Thalor, the Glacial, a rank S warrior famous for his ability to manipulate ice on a massive scale. His challenge had been sent weeks earlier, but Rafa chose this specific moment to accept it, ensuring that the duel would be public and impactful.

Duel Setting: The duel took place in an improvised arena in the mountains near Rafa's territory. The landscape was covered in snow, creating a perfect environment for Thalor to showcase his skills. A crowd of spectators— including other warriors, nobles, and even representatives of secret guilds—gathered to witness the confrontation.

"You're young," Thalor said, with a confident smile as he raised his hands, creating floating ice blades around him. "But I'll show you the true power of a rank S."

Rafa remained calm, observing his opponent with a tranquil gaze.

"Go ahead," he simply said.

Thalor attacked first, launching a storm of ice that froze the air around them. The ice blades flew toward Rafa, cutting the ground and creating deep craters. To the spectators, it seemed impossible to escape the attack.

However, Rafa raised one hand, creating an invisible barrier that froze the blades in midair.

"Impressive," murmured one spectator. "He's facing Thalor like it's just a training session!"

With another gesture, Rafa turned the ice blades into vapor, dissipating them completely.

"Your turn," he said, with a provocative smile.

Thalor roared in frustration, summoning an avalanche that descended from the mountains toward Rafa. But before the avalanche could reach him, Rafa simply snapped his fingers. The avalanche froze in midair as if time itself had been suspended.

"This is impossible!" Thalor screamed, incredulous.

Rafa calmly walked toward him.

"You underestimated who I am," he said, almost casually.

With one final movement, Rafa dispersed the avalanche and disarmed Thalor, leaving him motionless on the ground.

"There's still much to learn," Rafa said before leaving the arena.

The crowd applauded, impressed by the display of power.

Second Duel: Sylra, the Mistress of Fire: The second challenge came from Sylra, the Mistress of Fire, a legendary mage known for her ability to control devastating flames. She had sent her challenge letter shortly after the "Aurora of Tomorrow" auction, demanding a proof of strength against Rafa.

Duel Setting: The confrontation took place in an open plain, where Sylra could use her abilities without limitation. She began the duel by summoning a fireball that illuminated the night sky.

"Let's see if you can withstand the heat," she said, launching the fireball toward Rafa.

To the spectators, it seemed that Rafa would be consumed by the flames. However, he simply raised his hands, turning the fire into water that evaporated into the air.

"Fire is not enough," he said, with an enigmatic smile.

Sylra became furious, summoning a storm of flames that surrounded Rafa on all sides. But again, he used his Visionary ability to create a protective dome, effortlessly neutralizing the attack.

"You are strong," Sylra admitted, panting. "But I still haven't seen your limit."

Rafa approached her, with a penetrating look.

"My limit? I don't have one."

With a gesture, he extinguished all the flames around them, leaving Sylra exhausted and defeated.

"I hope that answers your curiosity," he said before leaving.

Rafa's Name Begins to Gain Recognition: After these duels, Rafa's name began to echo in the higher circles of rank S on the continent. Secret guilds, nobles, and even rulers of kingdoms began discussing his potential.

Discussions Among the Powerful: In a luxurious room, several leaders gathered to debate Rafa.

"He defeated Thalor and Sylra with ease," said one noble, frowning. "This has never been seen before."

Another leader hesitated before responding. "They say he's young, but his power is unparalleled. Perhaps he's the next contender for the top spot on the global list."

A third one interrupted, with a calculating smile. "If he continues like this, he might even become the first absolute rank on the continent. But there's still much to explore."

These discussions quickly spread, sparking speculations about Rafa's future.

Hope for a Bright Future: For many, Rafa represented a new era. He was young, but already displayed a level of power that few had ever reached. His name began to appear on the global rank S lists, generating hope that he could be the first to reach the absolute top.

Rafa's Final Reflection: On the balcony of his tower, Rafa gazed at the horizon, reflecting on recent events.

"They're starting to understand," he murmured, with a confident smile. "But they still haven't seen anything."

Lyra approached, placing a soft hand on his shoulder.

"Your name is already revered by the most powerful," she said. "But what will you do with that recognition?"

Rafa looked at her, with a determined gleam in his eyes.

"I will change this world, Lyra. Not just my territory, but all of Eldoria. And this is just the beginning."