"Excuse me, are you Luciel Lanster?"
A young man stood before Luciel, his tone polite and respectful.
Luciel paused for a moment, not recognizing the person before him, but he nodded slightly in acknowledgment. "Yes, I am."
"Finally, I've found you," the young man exclaimed, a hint of joy evident on his face. He continued, "My name is Gary, a fourth-grade student. Bernd, the president of our Swordsmanship Association, asked me to invite you to join."
Gary's expression showed a mixture of relief and excitement. "By the way, Luciel, you're really hardworking and low-key. I've been looking for you for two weeks before finally finding you."
Luciel's thoughts raced. The Swordsmanship Association? An invitation from Bernd? He thought it might be related to the magic puppet incident. However, judging by Gary's demeanor, the association didn't seem to hold any grudge against him for damaging the puppet.
"Thank goodness..." Luciel secretly exhaled in relief. "Yes, I will find the time to visit the Swordsmanship Association."
Gary's face brightened at the response, and he seemed visibly relieved. "Very good. The third-grade midterm exam will begin tomorrow. I wish you the best of luck with it. Afterward, the Swordsmanship Association will be happy to welcome you."
With that, Gary left, his footsteps light and purposeful, a perfect example of noble etiquette.
"Joining the Swordsmanship Association... That's an interesting idea," Luciel thought to himself.
In the world of knights, true strength is recognized with official titles and noble status. Luciel had always intended to become a real knight, and meeting Bernd and other influential figures from the association could prove beneficial for his future. Establishing connections early on would undoubtedly be advantageous.
But for now, Luciel pushed these thoughts aside. There was something more pressing on his mind—the mid-term assessment. That was his top priority.
Preparing for the Assessment
Luciel left the academy early the next morning to purchase a real knight's sword. He went to a nearby blacksmith's shop, where he bought the most basic stainless steel longsword. It wasn't enchanted, nor was it finely crafted, but it cost Luciel exactly five gold coins.
"Cultivation really does burn through money…" Luciel sighed, his thoughts drifting. This sword was just the beginning. A true knight would also need solid armor, a strong steed, and proper equipment for both. He had thought that he was rich, but after careful consideration, Luciel realized just how much more money he would need for all the necessities of a knight's life.
"Alchemy and Magical Pharamacy is my way of earning money. I can't let it go to waste," Luciel promised himself.
The Mid-Term Assessment Begins
The day of the mid-term assessment arrived, and Luciel dressed in a neat samurai uniform. After weeks of hard training, he had changed significantly. His body was taller, more slender, and well-proportioned. His muscles had become defined, supporting his attire with ease. Even his face had become more striking, and he exuded an aura of confidence that made him even more handsome.
In the Knights Academy, most students were male, but if Luciel were to walk through the Magic Academy now, he would undoubtedly attract the admiration of many young girls.
The assessment took place in the training ground, though it didn't include all third-grade students. Luciel's instructor, Julian, would be leading the event. When Luciel arrived, most of the students had already gathered. The mid-term exam was a big deal, and it was especially important since it was tied to the final assessment. Many students, especially the children of noble families who usually skipped classes, had also shown up.
"Hey, Luciel! Over here!"
Luciel turned at the sound of a familiar voice. A gray-haired boy, dressed in luxurious clothing, trotted up to him. His pale face, dark eyes, and frail body were a sharp contrast to his refined appearance.
"Anderson," Luciel called out, recognizing him immediately.
Anderson was one of the few people Luciel considered a friend. Like Luciel, he was the son of a noble family, but his father's territory was wealthier, and their lifestyle was far more comfortable. Anderson was well-known for being a playboy, spending his time at parties and events, especially at Orland College.
However, despite his seemingly carefree nature, Anderson was stronger than Luciel, already a third-level apprentice knight. Of course, this wasn't because of talent or hard work; it was due to his access to magic potions that had boosted his strength.
"You seem different…" Anderson remarked, eyeing Luciel closely. "You look… more handsome and confident, like you've undergone some kind of transformation."
Luciel smiled slightly, a modest expression crossing his face. "I've been practicing diligently lately, and the results have been encouraging."
"Yeah, right," Anderson scoffed. "I wonder how much you've actually improved?"
Luciel shrugged, choosing not to engage in further conversation about it. Anderson quickly shifted gears, flashing a mischievous grin. "By the way, how about we go relax after the assessment today? I've heard there are some beautiful girls at Bishui Paradise, and even some elves. Believe me, your looks will have them swooning. Maybe you won't even have to pay…"
Anderson's fixation on women was nothing new, and Luciel found himself speechless for a moment. But before he could respond, his gaze shifted, and he murmured, "Teacher Julian is here."
Immediately, Anderson straightened up, clamping his mouth shut.
Julian's Announcement
Instructor Julian strode into the area, his authoritative presence quieting the crowd. The students, who had been chatting noisily, fell into a neat and orderly line. Julian nodded in acknowledgment before speaking in a deep, commanding voice.
"For this mid-term assessment, the student who finishes with the highest overall score will receive an opportunity. I will personally teach them the method of breathing used by true knights." He paused, letting his words sink in. "I hope everyone performs well."
The announcement sent a ripple of excitement through the crowd. Even Luciel's eyes widened in surprise. The knight's breathing method? That was something many aspiring knights dreamed of learning.
A hushed murmur spread throughout the training ground, and Luciel couldn't contain his excitement. He had heard of the technique before—the breathing method that could unlock the full potential of a knight's body. It was a game-changer for anyone looking to advance to the next level.
The stage was set. Luciel was ready to prove himself, but more than that, he was eager to unlock the next step in his journey toward becoming a true knight.
To Be Continued…