2 days later
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Class ended without another challenge.
Nobody in their right mind wanted to be the next example.
I was just sliding my asauchi back into its sheath when the instructor's voice called out.
"Joro. Stay a moment."
A few heads turned, curious, but most filed out. The door closed behind the last of them, and the instructor stepped forward with his arms crossed. His gaze wasn't hostile — more like… evaluative.
"You're wasting your time here," he said bluntly.
I raised an eyebrow. "I only just got here."
He shook his head. "You belong years ahead of this class. The gap between you and the rest of the students isn't narrowing — it's widening. I've seen it before. Talents like you get bored, stagnant." He paused. "The Academy allows students to skip years if they can pass an advancement exam. Combat proficiency, kidō basics, written theory, field assessment. Pass, and you'll be bumped forward."
I let the words sink in.
Skipping ahead meant less time in the Academy. Less hiding. More attention.
But…
My mind flicked to the interface only I could see.
[Quest Opportunity: Advancement Trial]
Pass the exam --> Increased rewards for daily/weekly challenges; higher-tier missions unlocked.
I didn't even bother hiding the small grin. The system had been stingy lately — the low-level quests barely gave enough points to matter. If this boosted the quality of what it handed me, it was worth the risk.
"When would the test be?" I asked.
"Two weeks. That gives you enough time to brush up on whatever you're weakest in. I'll personally oversee your preparation if you agree."
Two weeks.
It wasn't much. But I didn't need much.
I gave a small nod. "Fine. I'll take it."
The instructor's lips curved into the faintest smile. "Good. I'll get the paperwork started."
As I left the sparring grounds, my fingers twitched slightly with anticipation.
The system chimed again.
[New Quest: Rise Through the Ranks]
Pass the Advancement Exam.
Reward: 50 Stat Points + 1 Mystery Skill Upgrade Ticket
I exhaled slowly, already mapping out my training plan.
Two weeks to jump years ahead in the Academy…
Two weeks to set the stage for something bigger.
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