The crackle of fire echoed through the forest as Lyrus continued practicing the Hellfire Technique. Days passed, and though his progress was slow, his determination never wavered. The system amplified his understanding with every attempt, and soon, small flames danced effortlessly in his palms.
One evening, his path led him to a small village nestled in a valley. Smoke rose from its center—not from hearths, but from burning homes. The distant screams of women and children tore through the air. Without hesitation, Lyrus quickened his pace, his steps shaking the ground as his strength grew even further.
As he entered the village, a group of bandits came into view, terrorizing the villagers. Their leader, Drevan the Red, stood at the center, a hulking man with a wicked grin and bloodstained axe.
"Another fool come to die?" Drevan sneered as Lyrus approached. The bandits laughed, but their mirth faltered as Lyrus stepped closer, his aura suffocating.
"Leave now, or face me," Lyrus said coldly.
The bandits charged, weapons gleaming under the moonlight. Lyrus moved like lightning, his system-enhanced speed making him untouchable. With each strike, he shattered bones and sent men flying.
When Drevan finally stepped forward, Lyrus channeled his Hellfire Technique. Flames erupted around his fists as he launched a devastating Hellfire Burst Punch, incinerating Drevan's axe and sending him crashing into a wall.
The villagers watched in stunned silence as the remaining bandits fled. Lyrus turned to them, his voice steady. "You're safe now."
Among the villagers was an older man, Kael, who recognized the Hellfire Technique. His eyes gleamed with respect. "You're HellSin, aren't you? I'll follow you."