The next morning, the courtyard was alive with the usual buzz—laughter, chatter, and the occasional scuffle—but James Lee's focus was sharp. Today, he planned something different: controlled exercises designed to test Valhalla's recruits under pressure, while simultaneously observing Takemichi and his friend group from a distance.
[QuestSim Update – Level 6 → 7]Stats: Strength: 6 | Agility: 6 | Intelligence: 7 | Charisma: 6Skills: Observation +7 | Strategic Analysis +6 | Combat Awareness +4 | Tactical Influence +1Perks: Leadership Insight, Aura of Authority, Tactical Vision, Influence Recognition, Strategic Observation
James Lee gathered Yamagishi, Kazutora, Atsushi, Takuya, and Makoto in a quiet corner of the courtyard. "Today," he began, voice calm but commanding, "you will be tested. Not just physically… mentally. You will face a scenario designed to simulate conflict, decision-making under pressure, and teamwork."
He explained the exercise:
Scenario: An upperclassman "bully" will attempt to corner and intimidate a designated recruit.
Objective: Protect the target, diffuse the situation, and avoid escalating violence.
Rules: No actual harm, but use strategy, coordination, and observation.
The recruits listened carefully. James Lee watched each closely, noting strengths, weaknesses, and potential growth areas.
Meanwhile, at the far side of the courtyard, Takemichi and his friends were observing quietly, slightly bewildered. Takemichi's instincts kicked in; he couldn't interfere with the exercise, but every movement, every tactic James Lee employed was recorded in his mind—another subtle influence on the timeline.
The exercise began. Kazutora took the lead, using his speed and agility to position the "bully" strategically, while Atsushi and Takuya coordinated distractions. Makoto stayed close to the target, ready to intervene if needed.
[System Ping: Tactical Coordination Successful – Experience +15][System Ping: Individual Performance Recorded – Yamagishi +2 Observation, Kazutora +2 Combat Awareness]
James Lee observed silently, analyzing the recruits' decisions. Each choice revealed personality, skill, and loyalty. The system highlighted key areas for improvement: reaction time, communication, and adaptability under pressure.
As the exercise concluded, James Lee approached Takemichi from a distance, carefully keeping the friendly but authoritative aura. "You observed closely," he said, voice low. "Good. Every movement, every choice… gives you information you can use. Timing, loyalty, and awareness are just as important as strength."
Takemichi nodded nervously. "I… I saw how they worked together… It's impressive."
James Lee allowed himself a small smirk. "Impressive, yes—but they are still learning. Potential matters more than skill at first. And potential… can be shaped."
The system pinged: [Hidden Quest: Observe Key Figures – Ongoing]
Later, James Lee debriefed his recruits quietly on the rooftop. "Today was not about victory or defeat. It was about understanding. Observation, communication, and timing. Each of you performed well—but there's room to improve. That is why we train. That is why we grow."
He glanced subtly toward Takemichi and his friends lingering below. "And as for the boy loyal to Toman… every decision he makes, every move he executes… is data. You do not need to intervene—simply watch, learn, and adapt."
The system chimed:
[Level Up: James Lee – Level 7][New Skill Unlocked: Influence Mapping +1]
James Lee's eyes scanned the city skyline beyond the school gates. Valhalla was no longer just a name—it was a network of potential, loyalty, and strategy, quietly growing stronger.
"Soon," he murmured, "even the largest obstacles will recognize the name Valhalla… and the world will begin to bend to it."