Chapter 374 - quick spar
Being a noble is not as easy as everyone thinks. Irina had experienced this firsthand with her progress-obsessed mother.
From an early age, she learned how to use magic, how read, how write, how dance, how move elegantly, and how behave according to the noble antique.
Even though the world got more modern and the practices of the past were mostly abandoned by the general public, the high society was different.
Because they needed to uphold a certain image and the high society had its own way of operating, the Emberheart Family naturally followed those rules as well.
It was not like that would damage them or anything.
Therefore, from a young age, Irina learned how to use the sword. Even though it was evident that the heir of the Emberheart family was bound to be a mage and have a trait related to magic, she still learned how to use the sword.
It was because using a sword wasn't only related to combat, but it was also viewed as an aristocratic way of displaying elegance.
The weapon that was so widely used that it had already been deeply integrated into human culture.
Adding to her mother's obsession with Irina's success and education, Irina practiced her sword countless times at the end of the day. She was taught by many famous sword instructors how to use the sword, and she even learned some fire magic that was compatible with swords.
As a result, weirdly enough, Irina could be counted as the person with a huge amount of knowledge on swords.
Though she hated all those times that she was forced to train the weapon she never liked, at the end of the day, as a child, she could never go against the head of the family, and she could only comply with the training.
'Let's see what expression you will make when you see this.'
And now, for the first time in her life, she thought that it was good that she had learned how to use the sword.
Because she could teach this arrogant guy a lesson and see the expression he would make. After all, she had lost to him in the past, even if it was not directly stated.
Normally, she didn't interact with him in the classroom with everyone present since, at first, she didn't have any reason nor any desire to. Though the 'desire' part changed over time, with the classroom positions already being formed as the semester had started, she couldn't change her seat, neither could she change his.
Thus, at the end of the day, she couldn't interact with him as she wanted without any reason, thanks to the societal chains that bound her.
Though, now, that reason had presented itself. After all, with Eleanor personally teaching him, he had become the center of attention for a short amount of time, and people knew Irina as someone who was hotheaded and liked challenges.
Thus, it would be reasonable for Irina Emberheart and others to challenge this guy who suddenly became the center of attention.
And Irina wouldn't miss such an opportunity.
"Let's spar."
As she announced, Astron stared at the sword, then met her gaze. "Is this even allowed?" he asked, a hint of skepticism in his voice.
Irina tilted her head slightly, considering his question. "Technically, no. But since when have you ever followed the rules to the letter? Besides, no one will object if it's just a friendly spar."
"Your words can be counted as slander. I had never broken any school rules before." Astron retorted back. That guy was as annoying as he was ever, but at this point, Irina had become so used to it that she even felt comfortable with such a response.
"Then, does that mean you are planning to do so in the future?"
"I did not say such a thing."
"But, you implied it."
"Whether I implied or not depends on how you perceive. It is your problem if you want to think that way."
"Tsk. Annoying bastard."
"….."
"Anyway, since it is a friendly spar, I am sure no one will say anything. And it feels like instructor Eleanor's goal was exactly that, don't you think?"
"Friendly? I doubt it." Astron said, looking at the students whose attention was on him and her talking. There was a fierce glint in their eyes, and it seemed they wanted to know what made Eleanor personally help him.
"As friendly as it can get," Irina retorted, her eyes glinting with challenge.
"Alright," he agreed, drawing his own sword. "If that is what you want, I will entertain you a little." Though his words were flat and emotionless from the outside, Irina could see that he was somehow enthusiastic about using a sword.
'Just as they say, Sword is every man's romance.'
She thought proudly and then raised her sword.
They squared off, the air around them thick with anticipation. Students began to gather around, their whispers filling the air as they realized a duel was about to take place.
Irina's stance was impeccable, a testament to her rigorous training of before. Even if she was a mage, it was evident that she could use a sword to some extent when necessary.
Astron mirrored her, feeling the weight of the sword in his hand.
"I will limit my speed and strength to match yours."
"You don't need to."
"No. I don't want to beat you because I am a close combatant."
"You really are sure you can beat me, aren't you?"
"…." Astron shrugged his shoulders as he took his position as well.
"Ready?" she asked, her voice steady.
"Always," he replied.
SWOOSH!
Irina moved first, her sword slicing through the air with precision.
It was a quick 'Stripe.' The same basic unit that all other students were supposed to practice. She was intentionally using this basic unit so that this guy wouldn't have the right to complain to her when he lost.
'Even though this is not how I had been taught, it is pretty similar to the Magic Blocks.'
She thought as her sword rushed to the Astron.
CLANK!
Astron parried, their blades clashing with a resonant ring. She was fast, her movements fluid and graceful, a stark contrast to the aggression in her eyes.
SWOOSH! SWOOSH!
Irina launched a series of rapid strikes, each one a testament to her rigorous training. Her blade moved with a fluidity that only years of practice could achieve, each 'Stripe' executed with an incredibly swift form.
CLANK! CLANK!
Astron blocked each strike, his movements less refined but equally determined. His eyes never left hers, reading her intentions, adapting to her rhythm.
'This guy….But, I won't let you.'
Irina pressed her advantage, her strikes coming faster and harder. She used the footwork and techniques she had drilled into her body, her attacks a blend of precision and power. She aimed to overwhelm Astron, to show him that her knowledge and experience with the sword were not something that he could expect.
After all, how could he, since she was a mage? Not many people knew that high-ranking families were supposed to learn how to use swords either.
CLANK! CLANK! SWOOSH!
But contrary to what she expected, he somehow responded with a combination of blocks and parries, with his own strikes emerging as counterattacks.
'This is really!'
While his technique lacked the finesse of Irina's, there was an undeniable rawness to his movements, a growing understanding of the 'Stripe' and its applications.
'Did he use a sword before? But, he previously said, he didn't, and he wouldn't lie for things like this.'
His strikes were experimental, formed on the spot, each one a testament to his quick learning and adaptability.
"You really are not normal," Irina acknowledged between strikes, her voice steady. "But you're still lacking."
"We'll see about that," Astron replied, his tone calm and focused.
Irina moved with a swift, elegant strike aimed at his side.
SWOOSH!
Astron blocked, his blade meeting hers with a loud clash. He stepped back, using the momentum to create space, then lunged forward with a strike of his own.
CLANK!
Irina parried, their blades locked for a brief moment. She could see the cold focus in his eyes, the silent challenge that he posed.
'This time, you won't.'
It fueled her own resolve, pushing her to move faster and strike harder.
SWOOSH! SWOOSH! CLANK! CLANK!
Their swords danced in the air, a flurry of strikes and parries that left the other students in awe. Irina's advantage was evident; her previous knowledge and experience gave her the upper hand.
Yet, Astron was closing the gap, his movements becoming more precise, his understanding of the 'Stripe' growing with each exchange.
Astron shifted his stance, his eyes narrowing as he prepared for the next attack. He struck with a powerful 'Stripe,' putting all his strength and mana into the blow.
CLANK!
Irina blocked, but the force of the strike pushed her back slightly. She adjusted her grip, her eyes narrowing in determination. "Not bad," she admitted, a hint of a smile playing on her lips.
"…."
Astron pressed his advantage, launching a series of rapid strikes. His movements were still raw, but there was a growing goal in his attacks as if he was already forming a strategy.
SWOOSH! SWOOSH! CLANK!
Irina deflected each strike, her movements becoming more defensive as she assessed his growth.
She could see the potential in his technique, the promise of a possibly strong swordsman in the making.
'But, let's see if you can deal with this.'
Yet, Irina wasn't someone who could be neglected. After all, she also formed her own strategy.
Imagining a formation of magic in her head, she somehow tried to construct it inside her mind. Rather than using Basic Blocks, she imagined the spell with 'Stripes.'
The slashes of a sword and the trails of mana formed a technique in her head, and she visualized it in a split second.
It wasn't something that could be explained by purely logic, as it was close to intuition for her.
SWIRL!
Her mana swirled as it coated the sword. Then, she raised her sword and started to implement the technique she had visualized.
SWIRL!
Irina's mana swirled as it coated her sword. She raised her blade, her eyes locked on Astron, and began to implement the technique she had visualized in her mind.
SWOOSH! SWOOSH! SWOOSH!
The first three 'Stripes' formed a triangle in the air, each slash precise and deliberate. These corresponded to the magic block 'Generate,' creating a stable framework of mana that hung in the air, glowing faintly.
Astron moved to counter, his blade intercepting hers with a series of quick parries.
CLANK! CLANK! CLANK!
He could feel the intensity of her strikes and the added complexity in her movements, but he was holding his ground.
SWOOSH! SWOOSH! SWOOSH!
The next three 'Stripes' connected the corners of the triangle with quick, tangent lines. These corresponded to the magic block 'Rotate,' causing the mana to swirl and shift, creating a vortex of energy around the initial structure.
Astron adjusted his stance, his eyes narrowing as he read her movements. He could sense the change in her technique, the way her mana flowed and twisted with each strike. He moved with purpose, his own blade slashing through the air to meet hers.
CLANK! CLANK! CLANK!
His counters were less about pure strength and more about precision, matching her strikes with calculated deflections.
'He is good…'
Irina thought, feeling the pressure of his defenses. But she was determined to see this through. She raised her sword for the final strike.
SWOOSH!
The last 'Stripe' was a curved line, corresponding to the magic block 'Compress.' The mana compressed into a tight, focused blade of energy, creating a spell that resembled 'Torrent.'
Astron's eyes widened slightly as he saw the final strike coming. He moved to intercept it, his blade moving with swift precision.
CLANK! CLANK!
He dealt with the first six strikes, his counters almost instinctual now, but the final, curved strike caught him off guard.
SWOOSH!
The compressed mana blade hit its mark. Astron tried to deflect it, but the force of the attack was too much. The blade struck him on the side, sending him stumbling back.
The duel was over.
Chapter 375 - quick spar (2)
"Wow."
"That was crazy? Irina Emberheart can use a sword like that?"
Witnessing the display of the swordsmanship of a mage right before their eyes, the students could no longer be proud of themselves at all.
After all, Irina was a mage, and the display she had shown was enough to make them feel like they wouldn't last even for a second.
"But that guy was pretty good as well, right? His sword skills are not bad." One of the guys said while observing the young man who had just faced Irina Emberheart and who had been the subject of Eleanor's attention.
"Yeah….I kind of get why Eleanor guided him personally. Though, I am still envious."
"I mean…He kind of got what he deserved, no? Irina struck him really hard with the last one."
"He did get what he deserved, but I never knew we had someone like him in our class. What even is his occupation?"
"He uses a dagger and a bow as his main weapons, and his eyesight is pretty good," she said, her voice carrying a hint of admiration.
"How do you know that Nora?" another student asked, curious about her knowledge.
"I was on his team for the dungeon exploration in the first half of the semester," Nora explained. "He was our scout. His ability to spot traps and hidden passages was impressive, and his precision with the bow saved us more than once. He's a lot more skilled than he lets on."
Nora remembered the time when they faced the Fire Salamander. At that time, Irina, the strongest member of their team, and their basic carry were rendered useless against the salamander because of its fire resistance.
There, if not for Astron's quick way of thinking and good assessment of the situation, they wouldn't be able to pass through that monster.
Nora, who later was on another team in Phantom's Land, understood the value he presented to the team a lot better.
"Wait, he was a scout?" one of the students echoed, surprised. "So, he's good with both close combat and ranged weapons?"
"Exactly," Nora confirmed. "And from what I've seen, his dagger skills are just as sharp as his swordplay. He's versatile, which makes him a valuable team member in any situation. Though his overall power was lacking, he compensated it with his skills."
The students exchanged glances, a newfound respect for Astron growing among them. His multifaceted abilities and the fact that he had caught Eleanor's attention painted a picture of someone with great potential.
"Maybe we underestimated him," one of the students admitted. "He might not stand out much, but he's definitely got skills."
"Yeah," another agreed. "I guess he didn't get Eleanor's guidance out of nothing. She must have seen his skills in the dungeon while grading."
"Makes sense, makes sense."
As the murmurs of conversation continued, Eleanor observed from a distance, a slight smile on her lips.
'I guess this is one way of solving it? However, I didn't certainly expect Irina Emberheart to suddenly step up. I guess they somehow became close after all the assignments they did together?'
She thought.
On the other side, as the duel was over, Irina lowered her sword, breathing heavily but with a triumphant glint in her eyes. "Looks like I win," she said, a hint of a smile on her lips.
Astron steadied himself, his expression unreadable. He glanced at the spot where her final strike had hit, then met her gaze. "You did," he acknowledged a note of respect in his voice. "That was impressive."
"Do you get how mighty I am now? Even as a mage, I can beat you with swords. Do you feel nervous now?"
"Not really," Astron replied, shrugging. "Contrary to that, if I were you, I would get more anxious."
"Why?"
"Because you gave me another good idea," Astron said as he slashed the air with his sword. "You may have forgotten it, but I have good eyes."
"….." At the mention of that, Irina remembered how the duel progressed. From their previous interactions, Irina could easily say that he learned quite fast. Just like in magic theory, there was no doubt that this guy would master everything rapidly.
"Tsk."
In the end, she could only click her tongue, feeling like her victory didn't mean anything for some reason.
At that moment, Eleanor stepped forward, her gaze sweeping over the gathered students who were watching in silence. "Well done, both of you," she said. "This duel has shown the importance of creativity and adaptability in swordplay. Irina, your use of mana and technique was commendable. Astron, your ability to adapt and counter was equally impressive."
She looked at the other students. "I hope you've all learned something from this. Remember, the 'Stripe' is just the beginning. As you continue to train, you'll discover new ways to integrate your mana and techniques, just as Irina and Astron have demonstrated."
With that, she dismissed the class, leaving the students to reflect on the duel they had just witnessed.
"You really displayed a good show."
Of course, as the class was dismissed, in an instant, the group of friends gathered together.
"Hey, Astron. How about we spar? I feel like it will be fun." Julia, who had just witnessed the swordplay between Irina and Astron, felt her competitive spirit rising.
"…." Astron just looked at Julia for a second and then shook his head. "Do you, an heir of the Middleton Family, think that sparring with me will be beneficial?"
"Yes, I do."
"Why?"
"Hmm? Just an intuition?"
"Intuition?"
"Yep, a swordsman's intuition."
Astron shook his head at Julia's offer. "I guess thanks, Julia Middleton? But I refuse. Going against you in a sparring match would probably cost me an arm. I'm no match for you in swordplay."
Julia frowned, not quite ready to let it go. "Come on, Astron, it won't be that bad. Just a friendly match."
Astron met her gaze, his expression serious. "Friendly or not, you and I both know the difference in our skills. I'd rather keep my limbs intact."
Julia was about to argue further when Ethan approached, sensing the need to diffuse the situation. "Julia, maybe it's best if you find another sparring partner," he suggested, his tone light-hearted. "Not everyone can handle a bear like you."
Julia's eyes narrowed, her frown deepening. "Bear?" she repeated, her voice low and dangerous.
Ethan realized his mistake too late, his eyes widening as he tried to backtrack. "I didn't mean it like that, Julia, I just meant—"
But Julia cut him off, her tone indignant. "So, you think I'm like a bear, huh? Let me show you how a bear fights!"
With a growl, she lunged at Ethan, who yelped and tried to dodge her playful yet forceful swipes.
The others of the group watched, some laughing and others shaking their heads at the antics.
Irina, watching the scene unfold, couldn't help but smile. "Looks like things never change," she muttered to herself, amused by the familiar dynamic.
As Julia chased Ethan around, Astron turned to leave, but not before getting caught.
"You….I didn't know you used a sword as well." Lilia, who had been watching on the sidelines, approached him.
'You really misunderstood him, didn't you?'
Irina thought, hearing Lilia's words. After all she knew, Lilia misunderstood Astron.
"…." As for the said person, he didn't even try to clear the misunderstanding. "I don't need to tell you."
"…I guess that's right? But, I never seen you using a sword, so I assumed you only used a dagger."
"And there were any records of me using a sword?"
"That's righ-…." Lilia stopped, raising her eyebrows. And then she smiled. "So, you knew."
"It wasn't hard to guess."
"That's true."
After that, Astron turned to take his leave. Though, with the corner of his eyes, he spotted a pair of blue eyes locked onto him, observing him from a distance.
********
In the heart of the city, a high-rise building pierced the skies, its sleek, glass exterior reflecting the bustling metropolis below.
This architectural marvel housed one of the most prominent Hunter Guilds in the region, a hub of activity where adventurers and mercenaries converged.
At the building's entrance, a sprawling lounge stretched out, filled with a constant stream of people entering and exiting. The space buzzed with energy, a cacophony of conversations and hurried footsteps echoing through the air.
Countless screens and holograms displayed mission details, news updates, and rankings, casting a vibrant glow over the bustling crowd. Desks lined the periphery, where personnel engaged in animated discussions with hunters, processing their requests and documentation.
Amidst the sea of faces, a bulky man with broad shoulders made his way toward one of the desks. His presence commanded attention, not only due to his imposing stature but also the air of confidence he exuded. He navigated the crowd with ease, his movements deliberate and purposeful.
Reaching the desk, he produced his ID, handing it over to the receptionist with a nod. The receptionist, a young woman with a keen eye, scanned the ID and confirmed his identity. "Rank-7 Hunter Garrett," she announced, her voice carrying a note of respect.
Garrett nodded in acknowledgment before placing a sturdy box on the counter. "I've finished the dungeon exploration," he said, his voice deep and resonant. "These are the hauls and proof."
The receptionist opened the box, meticulously inspecting its contents. Inside were various artifacts, rare materials, and a crystalline core, each item attesting to the dangers Garrett had faced and overcome. After a thorough examination, she looked up and gave a satisfied nod.
"Everything is in order, Hunter Garrett," she confirmed, entering the details into the system. "Your mission is officially complete. Your account will be credited with the rewards shortly."
Garrett offered a rare smile, a fleeting expression that hinted at his satisfaction. "Thank you," he replied, taking his ID back.
With his mission complete and rewards secured, he turned and began making his way through the crowd once more and then left the building.
TICK! PUFF!
Upon leaving the building, he lit up a quick cigarette and leaned on the wall.
"I wonder, what that kid is up to? It had been a while since I talked to him, and I heard that the academy semester is about to end soon."
Suddenly, a figure appeared beside him, moving with an almost ghostly silence. "Who is 'the kid'?" she asked.
Garrett narrowed his eyes, annoyed but not entirely surprised. "Haven't I told you not to approach me stealthily, Reina?"
Reina shrugged her shoulders with a smirk. "Skill issue," she replied nonchalantly.
Garrett sighed, shaking his head. "You're hopeless, Reina."
Reina repeated her question, this time with genuine curiosity. "So, who is this kid? Is he the one you've been talking about?"
Garrett nodded, taking another drag from his cigarette. "Yeah, I was just thinking about him. The academy semester is ending soon."
Reina made a thoughtful expression. "Are you going to watch the finals?"
Garrett frowned, looking puzzled. "What do you mean?"
Reina raised an eyebrow. "Don't you know? The Arcadia Hunter Academy's first semester finals always have the same format: one-on-one fighting. The relatives of the students are allowed to watch the fights."
Garrett's eyes narrowed further, his expression darkening slightly. "I didn't know that. That hopeless kid never informed me about this either."
Reina chuckled softly. "Seems like you need to have a word with him. Watching the finals could be interesting, especially if he's participating."
Garrett took a final drag of his cigarette before flicking it away. "I suppose I should pay a visit. It's about time I saw what he's been up to with my own eyes."
"Hmm….Maybe I should come as well."
Chapter 376 - quick spar (3)
"Hmm….Maybe I should come as well."
Hearing this, Garrett raised his head.
"What?"
With his bulky build and his stern facial properties, one most likely wouldn't expect him to show such an expression, yet Reina was able to see his serious face crumbling.
"What did you say?"
"Do you have hearing problems? I said I wanted to come as well."
Garrett's brows furrowed. "For what reason?"
Reina shrugged. "I'm just curious. You talk about that kid a lot."
Garrett scoffed. "Even if you're curious, what makes you think you can come? You're not his relative or anything, so you don't have any type of legal permit."
Reina nodded, acknowledging his point. "That's right." Then her face turned serious. "But don't forget the reason why that kid was even allowed to attend the most prestigious academy."
Garrett fell silent, her words striking a chord. He knew all too well the strings that had been pulled. After all, there was no logical reason for a random orphan with measly talent to even enter the Arcadia Hunter Academy.
That was an impossible task, even for Garrett, who had become a rank-7 Hunter of the association.
'Ah, right…She led me into this conversation, didn't she?'
Suddenly, Garrett realized. After all, Reina opened the conversation about the Arcadia Hunter Academy's final exams.
She was also the one who belonged to the agency, which was the reason that the kid entered the academy.
'Do they want to check his progress? What do they even want?'
Garrett wanted to ask, but he knew he wouldn't get any answers. That was how they worked, after all.
Reina's voice softened but held a firm edge. "You do know the agency has a stake in this, Garrett. Thus, the higher-ups need to see how he's progressing. It's not just about curiosity."
Garrett exhaled heavily, the weight of her words sinking in. "Fine. We'll go together. But remember, this isn't a social visit. We're there to observe."
Reina's smirk returned, and her eyes lost their seriousness in an instant. "Oh? Is that a date invitation? You are quite bold."
Garrett rolled his eyes at Reina's teasing. "Hardly a date invitation," he muttered, taking another drag from his cigarette. "More like a work assignment. Don't get your hopes up."
Reina chuckled, leaning against the wall beside him. "You know, for someone who saved my life back in the Elvara Ruins, you sure know how to ruin a moment."
Garrett smirked, the memory of that mission flashing through his mind. "If I recall, it was you who got us into that mess in the first place. Charging ahead without backup, almost getting crushed by a collapsing cavern. Some might call that reckless."
Reina rolled her eyes playfully. "Some might call it efficient. And if you hadn't been dragging your feet, we wouldn't have been in that situation."
"Dragging my feet?" Garrett raised an eyebrow. "You were the one who tripped the ancient trap mechanisms."
Reina shrugged with a mischievous grin. "Details, details. What's important is that we made it out alive and with the artifact, didn't we?"
"Yeah, and a week's worth of bed rest for me," Garrett replied, his tone both exasperated and amused.
They stood in companionable silence for a moment, the bustling city life around them contrasting with their quiet reminiscence. It was clear they had a history filled with missions that had forged a bond of mutual respect and understanding.
"Still, can't believe you talked me into this," Garrett finally said, his voice gruff but lacking any real bite.
"Talked you into what? Going to watch over the kid or admitting that you care?" Reina's eyes sparkled with mischief.
"Both, probably," Garrett replied, flicking the ash from his cigarette. "But mostly about the academy. There are literal monsters there, like Victor Blackthorn and the two magic heirs. And, I know that kid will never be a match for them since I myself had trained him."
Reina's expression grew more serious. "You know as well as I do that the kid's progress is crucial. If he fails….Well…..They won't let their money go to waste, at least."
Garrett sighed, nodding. "Yeah, I get it. That doesn't mean I have to like it."
"Nobody said you had to," Reina said, her voice softening again. "But well, even if he fails, I will do my best. Though, don't raise your hopes up."
Garrett glanced at her. "If he fails, then there is nothing we can do. This world is such a wretched place after all."
"…..That…I can't refute."
They shared a look, an unspoken understanding passing between them.
"Alright," Garrett said, pushing off the wall. "Let's get ready. We've got a kid to watch over."
*******
The end of the semester has always been one of the most busy times of any type of educational institute.
After all, with many assignments coming, the projects that need to be finished, and the final exams that need to be passed, the students who need to overcome all of those at once would face difficulties.
The main reasons for that were the lack of consistency and procrastination.
Even though all of them know that the exams are coming and they won't have much time between the exams, most of the students still refuse to study for the upcoming finals and would let themselves be crushed by their weight.
That was how it would happen all the time, and the students of the Arcadia Hunter Academy were not that different.
Though many of them had their talents, there were still many who lacked consistency. To deal with such cases, the academy did its best to spread many assignments and homework every week and keep the students busy with the curriculum, but that also brought plagiarism and the lack of personnel since reading all those papers itself was hard as well.
It was something that was hard to balance.
"Yawn….I am so tired…." One student's exaggerated yawn echoed through the classroom, mirroring the sentiment of many.
"I didn't sleep at all last night," another complained, dark circles under their eyes. "I was up trying to finish the project for [Dungeon Theory 1]."
"Same here," a third chimed in. "I still have to study for Mana Control, and I haven't even touched the Federal Swordplay notes of the [Combat theory 1]."
The room was abuzz with groans and murmurs of discontent; students slouched over their desks, barely able to keep their eyes open. The exhaustion was palpable, and it was clear that most were not in any condition to absorb new material.
Just then, the door to the classroom swung open, and Eleanor strode in with her usual stern demeanor. The students immediately fell silent, sitting up straighter as they sensed her presence.
"Good morning, cadets," Eleanor greeted them, her tone firm. She paused, letting her gaze sweep across the room, taking in the tired faces and slumped postures. It was evident that the exhaustion was widespread, and pushing forward with the regular curriculum would be futile.
"Given the current state of affairs and this being the last week of the semester," she began, her voice carrying a note of understanding despite its firmness, "it would be pointless to proceed with today's lesson. Therefore, I will not conduct any classes today."
"What?"
"Thank god…."
A collective sigh of relief swept through the room.
TAK!
But it was quickly stifled as Eleanor continued.
"Instead, I will provide you with important information regarding the final exams, which will commence next week."
The students perked up slightly, their attention focused on Eleanor.
"The final exams will be divided into two categories: Theoretical exams and Practical exams," she announced. "The Theoretical exams will consist of written exams and oral exams."
Murmurs of concern rippled through the room, but Eleanor silenced them with a raised hand.
"The written exams will cover all subjects we have studied this semester. You are expected to demonstrate a thorough understanding of the material. The oral exams will test your ability to articulate your knowledge and apply theoretical concepts in practical scenarios."
She paused, allowing the students to digest the information before continuing.
"As for the Practical exams, they will be conducted in the usual format: Duels. You will be paired with classmates, and your performance in combat will be assessed based on technique, strategy, and mana control."
The room fell silent as the weight of Eleanor's words sank in. The prospect of duels was daunting, but it was a standard part of their training as Hunters, especially for the cadets of Arcadia Hunter Academy, since this was one of the most well-known traditions.
Almost every student knew about duels, and they called their families to the academy. Many scouts from high-ranking government institutions, as well as the guilds, would attend these final exams as well.
"Use the remaining time wisely," Eleanor advised, her gaze steady. "Prepare yourselves thoroughly for both the theoretical and practical exams. Remember, consistency and discipline are key to your success."
With that, she dismissed the class, leaving the students to reflect on the upcoming challenges. As they gathered their belongings and filed out of the room, the exhaustion in their eyes was now mixed with a renewed sense of purpose. The final exams loomed ahead, and they knew that the real test was yet to come.
As Eleanor left the classroom, the room remained silent for a few moments.
Julia turned around in her seat, a wide smile spreading across her face. Her eyes sparkled with excitement as she looked at her friends. "Finally, some action!" she exclaimed, her voice filled with enthusiasm. "We've been trapped in this academy for the last month with nothing but theory and assignments. I can't wait for the duels."
Ethan chuckled, shaking his head. "Only you would get excited about having to fight your classmates," he said, a hint of admiration in his voice. "But I have to admit, it's a nice change from all the studying."
Irina, who had been quietly packing her things, looked up and smiled as well. "It will be interesting to see how everyone has improved," she said, throwing a quick glance at certain someone.
Lilia, who was sitting beside Irina, nodded in agreement. "And it's not just about the duels. The written and oral exams are just as important. You need to make sure you're prepared for everything."
"Hell nah….I don't care about those oral exams or something…I am here to fight." She smirked, rising up from her seat.
"You are leaving?"
"I will train," Julia answered Ethan's question. "What are you doing?" However, as she was about to leave the classroom, she turned back.
"I am chilling? Why?"
"What do you mean why? You are coming with me."
"…."
It was at that moment that Ethan realized his fate.
*******
Emma paced back and forth in her room, her mind racing as she awaited updates from the people she had entrusted with tracking down her blackmailer.
The tension had been mounting ever since the incident in the cafe, and she knew that even if many times had passed, people still remembered her actions.
RING!
Her smartwatch buzzed, signaling an incoming message. Emma quickly glanced at the screen and saw a notification from the team she'd hired. With a deep breath, she tapped on the message and began to read:
[Miss Emma, we have some progress on tracking the blackmailer. The messages were sent from a highly secure device, making it difficult to trace. However, we managed to trace it back after the month's work. That is why, it took this long. We've sent you the app link and access credentials and the location of the device. Be cautious.]
Emma's heart raced as she processed the information. She quickly downloaded the app and logged in using the provided credentials.
A map appeared on her screen, with a blinking dot indicating the exact location of the device. Without wasting another moment, she grabbed her coat and headed out of her room.
'This place….It is the freshmen's dormitory….And, it is girl's?'
She realized this from the location.
'To think that a freshman girl dared to blackmail me…Tsk.'
With quick steps, she reached the dormitory block 3. Since it was finals time, many of the students entered and exited the dorms; therefore, who entered wasn't checked too much.
Following the app's directions, she finally reached the door of the room that contained the device.
There, a name was written.
[Taylor Bowman].
Chapter 377 - quick spar (4)
With the final exam period almost starting, the students were busy studying and training. The same could be said for Sylvie as well.
Even if she had been training hard to improve herself, that didn't mean it aligned with what the academy wanted from her.
That was especially the case since she was a healer, and she focused more on close combat and magic. She didn't want to reveal her powers to the world because of her intuition warning her, but that also meant that she needed to act like a healer.
And now she was suffering from that choice.
"Body autonomy, Mana Vein's practice... And I am yet to start studying for the general courses... I am done, aren't I?" Sylvie muttered, rubbing her temples in frustration. The weight of her neglected studies was pressing down on her, threatening to crush her under its immense burden.
"You know, this is what you get for neglecting your studies," Jasmine chimed in, her voice carrying a hint of teasing but also genuine concern. She leaned against the doorframe, arms crossed. "I warned you about this, didn't I?"
Sylvie sighed, glancing up at Jasmine with a sheepish smile. "I know, I know. I just got so caught up in my training that I let everything else slip."
Jasmine shook her head, a wry smile on her lips. "Training is important, but so is keeping up with your coursework. You can't exactly heal someone with punches and kicks."
"I guess you're right," Sylvie admitted, a sense of resignation in her voice. "But it's so hard to balance everything. Sometimes, it feels like there's just not enough time in the day."
Jasmine walked over and sat down beside Sylvie, placing a comforting hand on her shoulder. "I get it. We all have our struggles. But maybe we can find a way to make this a bit easier. How about we change the location? Sometimes, a change of scenery can help clear your mind."
Sylvie looked at Jasmine, her eyes lighting up with hope. "You think that would help?"
"Absolutely," Jasmine replied with a nod. "How about the library? It's quiet, and we can focus better there. Plus, it has all the resources we need."
'I don't think it will be quiet as usual since it must be crowded now. But, well, I really feel suffocated.'
Sylvie considered the suggestion for a moment, then nodded. "The library sounds like a good idea. Let's go."
Sylvie gathered her study materials, and the two friends made their way to the library. As they walked, they chatted about their upcoming exams and shared tips on how to tackle the various subjects.
The library was a vast, quiet space filled with shelves upon shelves of books, scrolls, and various artifacts.
'Ah….The mana flow changed a little.'
Sylvie, who had become more and more sensitive towards the mana with each time she had trained, could now see the discrepancies in the environments that she had previously been in.
'Do they use wards? I guess the academy doesn't want students to break down.'
The scent of aged paper and the soft hum of mana wards created an atmosphere conducive to focus and study.
"This place is good, right?"
"Yeah."
Sylvie and Jasmine found a secluded corner, setting up their books and notes.
"Alright, let's get to work," Jasmine said, giving Sylvie an encouraging smile. "Alright, let's get to work," Jasmine said, giving Sylvie an encouraging smile. But then, as she was about to continue, her gaze shifted, catching sight of someone entering the library.
Sylvie followed Jasmine's line of sight and saw him—Astron. His presence was faint yet familiar, his face serious and cold as usual, with eyes clear and focused. He moved with silent steps, almost like a ghost, and none of the other students seemed to notice his presence.
He wore a long black coat, its elegant cut, and somber color setting him apart from the average students his age. Strangely, Sylvie felt that it suited him perfectly, complementing his demeanor.
Astron didn't spare a single glance at his surroundings, his attention unwavering as he made his way to one of the most secluded tables in the corner of the library. Sylvie's eyes followed his path; curiosity piqued when she saw that the table was already occupied by someone familiar.
The girl at the table had striking purple hair and a vibrant smile that seemed out of place in the solemn quiet of the library. Sylvie recognized her immediately—Senior Maya, one of the brightest and most cheerful seniors, as well as a reason for her trauma.
She always seemed to carry a lightness with her, a stark contrast to Astron's composed and often distant demeanor.
Maya looked up as Astron approached, her smile widening as she greeted him.
Astron nodded in response as he took a seat across from her.
The sight of them together, engaged in what seemed to be a comfortable and friendly conversation, sent a wave of mixed emotions through Sylvie.
Just like previously and now, this made it the second time that she had seen them together.
"Who is she? Do you know her?" Jasmine asked, her voice a silent whisper.
"She is Senior Maya."
"That Senior Maya? Maya Evergreen? First-ranked sophomore student?"
"Yes."
"What are they doing together?" Jasmine whispered, her curiosity mirroring Sylvie's.
Sylvie shook her head, unsure how to respond. She couldn't help but feel a pang of something—was it jealousy? Or perhaps a sense of loss? The end of their training sessions had left a void, and seeing Astron with someone else only magnified that emptiness.
"They must be studying," Sylvie suggested, trying to keep her voice neutral.
"Could be," Jasmine agreed, though her tone was skeptical. "But it's still interesting to see them together like this."
Sylvie forced herself to look away, focusing back on her notes. She couldn't afford to let herself get distracted, not with the exams looming so close.
But the image of Astron and Maya, so comfortable in each other's presence, lingered in her mind, adding another layer of complexity to her already tumultuous emotions.
"Let's get started," Sylvie said, more to herself than to Jasmine, and she delved into her studies with renewed determination.
She had to push through had to focus on what she could control—her own progress and preparation.
She needed to get better grades, better than ever before.
She felt competitive.
As for the reason for that fuel?
She didn't know, or maybe she didn't want to admit.
And Jasmine, who was watching her friend, could only display a helpless smile.
******
The contents of the curriculum are vastly different for the Sophomore year students and the freshmen. That is especially the case for the first semester since the first semester is mostly about the courses that gave freedom to the cadets.
For sophomore-year students, their exams are a lot harder, with countless different theorems included in them.
For Arcadia Hunter Academy, the curriculum was so wide that even some magic schools would fail in comparison. And the students were even expected to know this much in countless different subjects.
But for Maya Evergreen, who was the first-ranked student in both practical score and theoretical scores, that was not the case.
Since she was talented and hardworking at the same time, she revised the topics daily, practiced, and didn't waste much time on the things that didn't benefit her.
She didn't attend parties or stupid things like that, she didn't like playing video games, and she wasn't a particular reader either.
She also tried to read books and novels, but she somehow found most of them rather shallow. Since almost all the books contained smut, she disliked reading such things. Though that perception of hers was recently changing, she was still finding it hard.
Thus, she only had one thing that she could call a hobby.
Being with Junior and feeling his presence. She was sure that many people would say that hobbies were not such a thing, but for her, that wasn't the case.
After all, weren't hobbies things that would bring joy to the doer?
Then, this did fit the criteria, didn't it?
Maya watched Astron as he immersed himself in his studies, his focus unwavering. His serious demeanor and the way he dedicated himself to his work fascinated her.
It wasn't just his abilities that impressed her but also his relentless drive and commitment. She admired these qualities deeply, finding them to be rare and precious.
She found herself studying him, noting the intensity in his eyes as he pored over his books and notes. There was something mesmerizing about the way he worked, a quiet determination that resonated with her own drive to excel.
The library, with its hushed ambiance and the soft hum of mana wards, provided the perfect backdrop for their study session.
Maya also remembered the time when she was studying for the courses in her freshmen year.
The book before him was the [Introduction to Mana Theory, Seventh Edition]. Probably the hardest course of the semester coupled with [Dungeon Theory 1].
And he was now solving the problems prepared in the book.
'I guess I was like that? Though now, these subjects feel like a child's play.'
As she observed him, Maya's thoughts drifted to their past interactions. She recalled the times she had helped him learn to control his mana and the way he had diligently practiced under her guidance.
Those moments had forged a bond between them, a connection that she held dear. Now, seeing him excel on his own, she felt a surge of pride.
'He's come so far,' she thought, a smile tugging at her lips. 'I knew he would.'
Astron, seemingly oblivious to her gaze, continued his studies with unwavering concentration. Maya admired his dedication, but she also knew that he was not someone who paid importance to his grades.
'I mean, if he was someone like that, he wouldn't be last-ranked, wouldn't he?'
That meant something different was at play, and he had a reason. Knowing him, he wouldn't randomly have a change of heart, so he was either trying to impress someone which would never be the case with his character, or….
'In a competition? A bet?'
She leaned forward slightly, breaking the comfortable silence between them.
"Junior," she called softly, her voice gentle yet firm. "Who is the person you are competing with?"
"….." Astron raised his gaze and looked at Maya for a second. "You are sharp, Senior."
"That is why I am your senior, Junior."
"That seems to be true."
"So, who is this person?"
"It is confidential."
"….."
Hearing this, Maya pouted.
'This cheeky Junior dares!'
But then, something inside woke. It was a warning, an intuition.
'Is that a girl?'
Astron looked at Maya, his expression unreadable, but there was a glint of curiosity in his eyes.
Maya couldn't help but feel a pang of jealousy.
The idea of Astron competing with another girl unsettled her. She tried to mask her feelings, but her eyes narrowed as she pressed further.
"It's a girl, isn't it?" she asked her tone light but with an edge of suspicion.
Astron didn't respond verbally, but the slight change in his expression confirmed her suspicion. Maya felt a mix of emotions swirling within her—annoyance, curiosity, and a strange possessiveness she couldn't quite shake.
"Come here for a second, Junior," she said, her tone suddenly playful.
Astron raised an eyebrow, his curiosity piqued. "What is this about?"
"Just come over. I want to show you something," she insisted, her smile hiding her true intentions.
With a hint of reluctance, Astron rose from his seat and walked over to where Maya sat. He leaned forward slightly, trying to gauge what she was up to.
BITE!
Yet, even he didn't expect Maya to be this bold.