The Royal Capital Knight Squad selection?
Watching Charlotte's disappearing figure, a thoughtful look flashed in Karl's eyes. He had to admit, Charlotte was truly his benefactor.
If he hadn't caught her, how could he have so easily awakened the first of the Eight Gates?
This was only the First Gate, yet it had already enhanced his physical constitution and strength by a full tenfold. At this moment, Karl was confident that with his fists alone, he could match Asta's brute strength.
As for his own special grimoire...
According to the system, as long as he punched the book, he could release all-attribute magic. He just needed to find a secluded place to test it out.
He naturally intended to participate in the Knight Squad selection. Without joining a squad, when would he ever grind his way to the top? Plus, there was the allure of seeing Charlotte again.
...
In the distance, Asta was roaring at the villagers mocking him.
"I will definitely become the Magic Emperor! My path of magic will surpass everyone! Yuno, I challenge you!"
Yuno calmly walked up to him. "First, awaken your grimoire."
Asta immediately stumbled, completely deflated.
Yuno then turned and walked up to Karl. "There are only three days left until the Knight Squad member selection. Since we all came from the Forsaken Realm, why don't we go together?"
Asta rushed over, his eyes shining. "Yuno is right! Let's form a team and go to the Royal Capital together, what do you say?"
Karl hesitated. Yuno and Asta were walking protagonist-halos; they naturally attracted endless trouble. With his current power level, politely declining seemed like the best choice.
However, just as Karl was about to refuse, a system notification chimed.
[Ding! Magic Stone Fragment detected.] [Absorb the Magic Stone Fragment to awaken a skill. When used in conjunction with the Eight Gates, its power is immense.]
Karl's gaze immediately locked onto the magic stone necklace hanging on Yuno's chest.
Well, well. The opportunity is right before my eyes.
It seemed he really did have to follow these two around for a bit. Moreover, if he could gain favorability from them, he could unlock the Second Gate: The Gate of Rest.
He smiled. "Alright, going together isn't out of the question."
Asta was thrilled. "Karl! From now on, the three of us are good brothers! If you need anything, just call on me!"
Watching Asta's overly familiar, emotional demeanor, Karl waited for a system prompt. Nothing happened. Zero favorability points.
He sighed inwardly. Does this system only work on the opposite sex? Or only on powerful individuals?
...
The crowd gradually dispersed.
"Let's go back to Hage Village together!" Asta cheered. "I'll introduce you to my fiancée—Sister Lily!"
Yuno instantly shot Asta a look of utter disdain.
Karl simply smiled and turned his gaze toward the high window of the Magic Tower where Charlotte had previously stood. There was no response from the dark space.
With a carefree smile, he turned to chase after his new companions.
Meanwhile, hidden in the shadows of the distant room, Charlotte's gaze was fixed on the direction Karl had left.
The Magic Tower Master bowed with utmost respect. "Lady Charlotte, when do you plan to depart? I've prepared a simple meal..."
"Unnecessary," Charlotte replied coldly. "I merely needed to restore a bit of mana. I am returning to the Royal Capital now."
In the next moment, her figure transformed into a stream of light and disappeared.
Concealed within the shadows of her travel, Charlotte's body felt strangely feverish.
Damn that brat, she murmured softly. How dare he embrace me in public... when have I, Charlotte, ever done something so humiliating and shameful?
Involuntarily, the rugged figure of Yami Sukehiro surfaced in her mind. Yet compared to Karl's sudden transformation, that scruffy figure felt slightly different.
Charlotte inwardly cursed herself. Karl had saved her face back there, catching her when her curse rendered her helpless.
No matter what, I should repay this debt of gratitude as soon as possible, she reasoned with herself. Otherwise, wouldn't the reputation of the Blue Rose Knights Captain be tarnished?
Yes, that must be it.
Definitely no other thoughts.