Our schedule differed now that we were second years. In the morning instead of basic training, we were to go to our clubs to train. After lunch, we would then do our special knight training.
The ranking system was brought forward from the 1st year and I was currently ranked number 10. After the fight with Sebastion, I wanted the focus to move away from me. I gave up my matches before they even started, dropping my rank down.
We were no longer required to spar with each other, but students were allowed to still have matches outside of training. Instead, students were required to take part in a school tournament which included the 2nd and 3rd years. The winners of the tournament would go on to represent the school at the AKT (All kingdom Tournament), which was a tournament that included all kingdoms.
What I was excited for most though were the hunting trips. Once a week we were to go out as a group and hunt magical beasts. This would be my chance to finally obtain more crystals and become stronger.
The first day of training had started and the students were sent directions via the communicator of where their club was based. Most of the clubs where inside Avrion academy but some classes were in other buildings around the city. Slyvia, for instance, was sent to a hospital for her training.
I followed the instructions on the communicator, the location appeared as a red dot on the map and an arrow sign indicating the direction to go. The martial arts hall seemed to be based off-campus.
After ten minutes of walking, I finally reached my destination. I realised it wasn't too far off from where I had met the old man in the city.
The entrance of the martial arts hall was an open gate with two big red pillars on each side. On top of these pillars was wonky wooden sign barley hanging. The sign was worn out to the point where the words were barely readable but enough to make out the words.
I walked through the entrance and entered a peaceful green garden. The garden had a small pond to the left with a bronze stone statue meditating in the middle. At the end of the garden was a single wide building with one floor.
I walked up to the building but couldn't see any other students, wondering if I was in the right place or not. I knew they said it was unpopular but even if I was the first one here the third-year students should have been here as well.
"Hello, is anyone here," I shouted
There was no reply so I decided to approach the building. Walking around the side of the building I noticed there were no windows and still no one to be seen. In the end, I decided to enter the building.
The building had no windows and just had sliding door panels. I slid one of the door panels and entered the building.
The building was empty, it had a big open space with a soft mat covering the floor, while there was another room off to the side. Judging by the smell I could only assume it was the toilet.
In the centre of the room was an old man sleeping away quietly.
"Hello, I'm here for the martial arts club," I said while approaching the old man.
It seemed as if the old man was unable to hear me. I was now within arms reach of the old man.
"Hello."
There was still no reply from the old man and I was beginning to get frustrated. I knelt down next to the old man to shake him. When my hands were about to grab the old man his eyes opened wide. The old man grabbed me by the head and arm and flung me to the ground.
We had now switched places. The old man then swung a fist to my face but stopped inches before reaching it.
"Who are you?" the old man said.
"This man is crazy, who attacks a stranger like that." Is what I wanted to say but I knew how powerful his strikes were and I didn't want to anger him.
"I'm here to join the martial arts club, the communicator said it was here."
"Oh, a new student I see." The man held his hand out and lifted me off the ground.
"Sorry about that, I was attacked recently and have been on edge ever since, and we don't often get students here." He said with a big grin on his face.
"Where is everyone," I said while looking around thinking someone would pop out any second now.
"What do you mean, you're the first student I've had in years, this means you'll personally receive all my attention."
At least the old man seemed happy and excited about Training me.
"Before we start, I must ask, what made you chose the martial arts club?"
"Old man, do you not remember? you were the one who asked me to come here."
The old man thought for a while, then his eyes suddenly opened wide.
"You mean, you're that student from yesterday."
I nodded in response.
The old man started to laugh until he started to go into a coughing fit.
"I'm glad you chose to listen to me, it must be fate that we met yesterday. I've been looking for someone to pass down my skills but haven't had any students. I didn't expect you to join the club, but only to pass by. My reward was to teach you a little bit but I guess that's useless now. I promise I will teach you everything I know."
"Can you answer my question instead. Why were the black guild after you?"
"it's a secret but I suppose I owe you one, I'm currently one of the six elders of Avrion academy."
I remember seeing the elders once when we first entered the academy. They were the top of the top in the academy, a rank above the Master Knights. Although they weren't in their position due to their strength, unlike the master knights, they were the ones behind the scenes in charge.
"What were you doing all on your own, what are you still doing on your own!" I shouted.
"Hiding in plain sight is also hiding and let's be honest here, I look like any other old man unless I'm wearing the elder garments. The only people who would be able to recognise me are high officials. "
The old man's expression suddenly changed when he said the last sentance as if he was deep in thought. He snapped out of it and continued.
"Anyway, it's time for your first lesson today, Let me teach you about Ki."
Martial