January 12 4005 9:40AM
In Light's room, Claire experiences defeat multiple times during their video game match. Each time, the booming voice of the game declares "Light Wins" with resounding enthusiasm, accompanied by vibrant illuminations on the large TV screen that cascade in a mesmerizing array of colors, capturing Claire's attention.
"Alright, just one more," Claire insists eagerly, her voice brimming with determination. "I'm not giving up that easily."
Light responds with a hint of nonchalance, his tone emotionless. "If you insist, then."
With a mischievous smile, Claire selects the very character Light had used to claim victory in their previous matches. Her choice reflects her determination to prove herself and turn the tables on her opponent.
With a composed expression, Light selects his character, ready to face off against Claire. As the loading screen appears on the expansive flat screen, Claire's excitement swells, fueled by her determination to secure her first victory.
The anticipation builds as they both await the moment the screen transitions with the announcement of "FIGHT!" resonating through the speakers. Claire's focus intensifies, her mind fully immersed in the game and the character she has chosen. She unleashes a flurry of attacks, attempting to execute a powerful combo on Light, but her efforts are swiftly countered by his swift and relentless button-mashing.
Despite Light's calm and emotionless demeanor, his skill and precision in executing his character's moves are apparent. The clash between their avatars is fierce, each movement calculated and deliberate. Claire's excitement turns into a mix of determination and frustration as she struggles to gain the upper hand.
The climactic moment arrives, accompanied by the familiar declaration of "Light Wins!" echoing through the room once again, as if taunting Claire with her previous defeats. The words serve as a reminder of the uphill battle she faces in her quest for victory.
With a surge of frustration, Claire forcefully slams her controller onto the floor, the impact just shy of causing any damage.
"Had enough, or do you want to keep going? And by going, I mean losing" Light taunts sarcastically with a stoic expression.
Seething with annoyance, Claire sulks beside him, crossing her arms tightly around herself. A deep sigh escapes her lips as she averts her gaze, her face etched with visible irritation.
"I'll take that as a 'no'," Light retorts sarcastically, his voice void of emotion.
Claire rises from her seat, her face still carrying remnants of annoyance. However, a broad smile graces her lips, accompanied by subtle twitches in her vibrant yellow eyes.
"Let's go out. I want to get some fresh air," Claire suggests cheerfully.
Light responds with a hint of skepticism, his tone dripping with sarcasm, "Kinda weird how that suddenly came up. Or maybe you just couldn't handle the sheer brilliance of my victories and decided to take a stroll to cool off."
Claire's eyes twitch a little more, but she quickly regains her composure, a bright smile spreading across her face as she clasps her hands together.
"Well, yes, you got me there," Claire admits, her tone filled with enthusiasm. "But besides wanting to escape the crushing weight of your victories, I also genuinely want to go out. We haven't had much time for ourselves after dealing with that whole Derek situation for the past couple of weeks."
Light gazes at Claire with a hesitant expression, but he eventually rises to his feet, standing in front of her before speaking.
"Do I even have a choice in the matter?" Light asks, his voice devoid of emotion.
"Like every other thing we do, the answer is a resounding no," Claire replies energetically, her enthusiasm undiminished.
With determination, Claire grabs hold of Light's hand and tugs him outside of his dorm, swiftly shutting the door behind them, the chocolate-colored wood making a solid thud. She continues to lead him outside the academy, pulling him along whether he willingly goes or not, leaving Light to contemplate his participation in this adventure beyond his control.
While Claire excitedly pulls Light along, their path intersects with several students. Some of these students harbor mixed feelings towards Light—some pretending to like him, others genuinely despising him for various reasons. Whether it be his exceptional skill, which they deem undeserving, or his perceived role in the recent Derek situation, a portion of the student body holds animosity towards him. Additionally, a minority resents Light due to their belief that he does not deserve Claire's companionship.
As they continue their journey, Light's sharp ears catch snippets of whispered conversations. Disparaging remarks fill the air, with comments like, "Why does he deserve such skill?" and "I would've been more deserving." Words like, "Who does he think he is?" and "He should be expelled for causing trouble" are also among the murmurs. Even comments expressing a desire for Claire to be with someone else instead of Light can be heard.
The whispers persist, surrounding Light with their negativity. Most of these comments come from fellow male students who feel annoyed or threatened by Light's presence. Unbeknownst to them, Liene herself harbors a hidden jealousy towards Light for spending more time with Claire, but her feelings go unnoticed amidst the chaos.
In the past few days, the animosity towards Light has been steadily increasing, though he remains indifferent to their opinions. Some students even go as far as wishing for his expulsion. However, due to the academy's strict rules against engaging in unprovoked battles, they are unable to take direct action against him.
As they make their way towards the exit, their steps lead them to a captivating sight—a flickering light that illuminates the scenery before them. Stepping outside, they are greeted by the serene, fading snow of late January. Light, clad in a black hoodie, brown pants, and a gray beanie, finds himself well-prepared for the chilly weather. Claire, despite her more casual attire, dons a brown winter coat over her yellow t-shirt, ensuring she stays warm as she had forcefully pulled Light along, regardless of his initial consent.
"Spring is indeed approaching," Claire remarks, her voice filled with anticipation. Light, on the other hand, playfully blows out a puff of air, creating a wintery vapor effect from his mouth.
"Well, I suppose I am making it a bigger deal than it already is, aren't I?" Claire comments with a grin spreading across her face.
"You could say that," Light replies, his tone devoid of emotion.
"And that, my dear sir, was what we call a rhetorical question," Claire quips, her playful tone accentuating the banter between them.
With her infectious energy, Claire firmly grasps Light's hands and leads him through the city streets, despite her lingering annoyance from their video game match. Each step they take creates a mini-snowstorm, as snow is sent swirling in all directions, leaving behind a trail of fresh footprints amidst the sea of existing ones.
Their impromptu run comes to a halt as they stumble upon a newly opened building, its doors welcomingly open. Intrigued by the sight, Claire releases Light's hand and eagerly steps closer to get a better look, momentarily forgetting her previous intention of pulling him along.
Their eyes fixate on the unassuming yet intriguing building before them. While not particularly grand in size, it stands out among the surrounding shops, drawing the attention of a diverse crowd comprising humans, elves, dwarves, and other demi-humans. Curiosity fills the air as people flock to witness the unveiling of this new establishment.
Light and Claire gaze at the building's façade, their eyes drawn to the sign hanging above the entrance, proudly displaying the words "Adventurer Guild." A surge of excitement courses through Claire as she realizes the potential and adventure that awaits within its walls in contrast to Light's usual stoic nature.
"Oooh! Does this mean we get to take on quests now?" Claire's voice is filled with excitement, her eyes shining with anticipation.
Light, on the other hand, responds with a sarcastic yet stoic tone, "No, it means 'you' get to take on quests now..."
Confusion tinges Claire's expression as she asks, slightly annoyed, "What's that supposed to mean?"
With a hint of sarcasm, Light retorts, "It means I am not interested..."
Disappointed, Claire persists, "Aw come on, it's no fun if you're not there to try..."
Referencing an old man's quote, Light replies in his emotionless manner, "Like an old man once said, 'Do or do not, there is no try.' I intend to do not..."
Without a second thought, Light turns around and begins to walk away. However, Claire, determined and slightly annoyed, refuses to let him escape her grasp. She tightens her grip on his hand and continues pulling him inside the adventurers guild.
Unfazed by Claire's determination, Light maintains his emotionless expression and allows himself to be dragged along, making no effort to resist her pull. Together, they enter the spacious interior of the large brown building, ready to explore the realm of quests and adventures that await them.
Upon entering the adventurers guild, Claire and Light are greeted by the sight of a grand and bustling interior. The building is filled with numerous seats and tables, occupied by adventurers sharing stories, planning their next moves, or simply taking a break. The air is abuzz with the lively conversations and the occasional sound of clinking glasses.
Multiple receptionists can be seen scattered across the area, either engaging in discussions with adventurers, handing out quests, or providing rewards for completed missions. In the center of it all stands a large brown board adorned with countless parchment notices, each representing a different quest waiting to be undertaken.
Claire, captivated by the sight before her, eagerly pulls Light towards the quest board. Though initially reluctant, he eventually agrees, following her lead. As they approach the board, their eyes scan the multitude of quests available, ranging from simple and straightforward to challenging and perilous.
While Claire marvels at the abundance of choices, a friendly quest giver approaches them, sensing their curiosity and enthusiasm even with Light giving an obvious stoic look.
"Hello, how may I assist you on your grand adventure?" greets the quest giver with a warm smile.
"Hello, we're new here and we're eager to embark on a quest," Claire responds with excitement evident in her voice.
"Ah, I see. However, as newcomers, you must first complete the registration process," explains the quest giver.
Curious, Claire inquires about the registration location, her eyes still filled with wonder.
The quest giver points towards a receptionist desk with a line of people waiting to register, causing Light's eyes to widen at the thought of a potentially long wait.
"We should probably go back," suggests Light, his voice devoid of emotion.
But Claire, determined and stubborn, loudly declares, "No!"
Despite Light's disappointment, Claire insists on pulling him into the line, which seemed to stretch endlessly before them. Time seemed to crawl as they patiently waited, with Light growing increasingly bored, his hands tucked into the pockets of his hoodie.
"I should have brought my phone," Light mutters in annoyance, his monotone voice reflecting his impatience.
"Who needs a phone when we have quests to fulfill?" Claire responds enthusiastically, her eyes still sparkling with awe.
"Well, last time I checked, quests didn't involve hours of waiting," Light retorts sarcastically, his tone devoid of emotion, showcasing his growing boredom.
After what felt like an eternity, Claire and Light finally reach the receptionist, with Claire taking the lead to register first. She approaches the receptionist with a cheerful smile.
"We would like to register, please," Claire requests politely, her excitement still evident.
The receptionist acknowledges their request and assures them, "Coming right up. I'll be back in a minute."
"A 'minute' she says," Light mutters, his tone tinged with a hint of grumpiness.
"What's wrong? It'll be fun, I promise," Claire responds optimistically, her tone filled with positivity.
"This isn't exactly my idea of 'fun' when I have to wait for minutes doing nothing," Light retorts with his signature emotionless demeanor, his hands remaining in his pockets.
Claire responds to Light's suggestion with a warm smile, a gesture that may have slightly alleviated his boredom amidst the waiting.
"Can we just go... I'll let you win this time if we go..." Light insists, his voice devoid of emotion.
"No! We're doing this. Just a few more minutes of waiting, and it'll be worth it. Trust me, it'll be fun!" Claire insists with unwavering energy in her voice, determined to make the most of their adventure.
After what felt like an eternity of waiting, Claire's energetic mood remained unchanged, while Light continued to display his boredom with an emotionless facade. Finally, the female receptionist handed Claire her Adventure Card, adorned with her name, weapon of choice, and even her picture. The card stood out with a big 'E' prominently displayed with Light still had his stoic nature intact despite his boredom.
Despite any situation that arose, whether it was a matter of life or death, the mundane routines of everyday life, or even moments of initial boredom, Light maintained his emotionless and stoic demeanor. It seemed as if nothing could crack his facade. However, beneath that calm exterior, he possessed a keen sense of sarcasm and a perpetual grouchiness that added a distinct flavor to his interactions with others.
As Claire excitedly received her Adventure Card from the receptionist, her enthusiasm filled the air. She couldn't help but marvel at the details on the card, including her name, weapon of choice, and the vivid picture that captured her essence. Her excitement contrasted sharply with Light's ongoing state of indifference.
"I got yours!" Claire exclaimed, unable to contain her energy.
Light's eyes flickered with a hint of amusement, though his expression remained unchanged. "I noticed," he replied, his voice laced with a tinge of sarcasm. His stoic demeanor remained intact, as if unaffected by Claire's infectious enthusiasm.
Claire's smile widened, undeterred by Light's response. She was determined to make the most of their time at the Adventurer's Guild and bring some excitement into Light's seemingly unflappable world.
After enduring the seemingly endless wait, Light's turn at the receptionist finally arrived, and he was handed his Adventure Card. Similar to Claire's, his card prominently displayed a bold 'E' that stood out among his personal details.
"We've got our cards... Now what?" Light inquired, his sarcasm evident in his emotionless tone. He couldn't resist adding, "I still have an inkling to go back, though."
Claire's energy remained unwavering as she responded, "Oh no, we are not going back! We are going to embark on a thrilling quest!"
"If you say so," Light replied with his usual stoic demeanor, his lack of enthusiasm contrasting sharply with Claire's infectious energy. Nevertheless, he knew that once Claire set her mind on something, there was no changing her course. So, he reluctantly went along with her plan, allowing himself to be swept up in her enthusiasm, albeit with a touch of detachment.
As they stood before the expansive quest board, their eyes widened at the multitude of quests displayed on its surface. A wide range of tasks and challenges awaited them, from the simplest delivery and escort quests to the daunting trials of retrieving ancient artifacts or exploring treacherous temples. Among the options were also the classic kill quests, pitting adventurers against formidable monsters.
Light observed the vast array of quests with his typical emotionless demeanor, his hands casually tucked into his pockets. It seemed as though every quest on the board had already been experienced by him or, at the very least, held little novelty compared to his past endeavors. His stoic expression revealed a subtle air of familiarity, hinting that he had faced similar situations or even conquered greater challenges before.
"We should take this one!" Claire exclaimed with uncontainable enthusiasm, her finger pointing at a quest that involved hunting down ferocious boars.
Light, in his typical sarcastic manner, responded with a dismissive tone, "Boring, next!"
Claire's annoyance was palpable as she retorted, "Hmpt! You're no fun!"
Their contrasting attitudes toward the quests showcased their different perspectives on adventure and excitement. While Claire sought thrilling encounters, Light seemed to have a more jaded view, looking for something beyond the mundane.
Claire's enthusiasm was quickly met with Light's sarcastic dismissal of the boar kill quest. However, his emotionless facade shifted slightly as his attention was drawn to another quest on the board. With a calm and stoic expression, he pointed towards a crop protection quest, one of the simplest and quickest tasks available.
"We can get this done in a minute," Light remarked with his usual emotionless tone, inadvertently contradicting his earlier boredom.
"I thought you hated being a vegetable yourself and doing nothing..." Claire couldn't help but point out the inconsistency, reminding Light of his aversion to idle activities.
Light's face momentarily betrayed a hint of unease, his emotionless demeanor faltering. "Oh, right," he muttered, his eyes darting slightly as he realized the irony of his own words.
After much deliberation, the duo settled on a Delivery Service quest. A merchant had entrusted them with the crucial task of delivering an important package to a customer in a neighboring town. The success of their mission depended on ensuring the package's safe arrival, even in the face of potential challenges or obstacles along the way.
"Well, that was sure a journey in just deciding," Light commented sarcastically, his emotionless demeanor still intact.
"Come on, let's go. We can't keep the customer waiting," Claire responded, her voice filled with determination, yet noticeably toned down.
"Right," Light acknowledged, ready to embark on the quest, despite his reservations.
Leaving the adventurers guild behind, the pair ventured onto a clear snowy path, flanked by lifeless trees that created a serene winter atmosphere. They continued walking, steadily making their way toward the destination, when suddenly their path was obstructed by a pack of wolves.
"I'll handle this," Light stated with his usual emotionless tone, seemingly undeterred by the imminent danger.
"Wait, Light... You don't even have a sword," Claire pointed out, her concern evident. "Take mine instead!"
Reacting swiftly, Claire tossed her sword toward Light, who caught it effortlessly. With the borrowed weapon in hand, Light kicks the first wolf directly on it's head before unleashing a flurry of swift and precise slashes, striking at the wolves with unwavering determination. In a matter of minutes, the fierce creatures either fled or succumbed to Light's relentless onslaught.
Claire, standing at a safe distance, watched as Light effortlessly dispatched the wolves, his moves precise and calculated. She held the package securely in her hands, occasionally fending off stray arrows that came their way.
"I have to admit, that was definitely more exciting than waiting in line," Claire responded, a mixture of relief and admiration in her voice.
Light approached Claire, holding her sword out to return it to her. However, Claire waved it off, indicating that she wanted him to hold onto it for the time being.
"Just keep it for now," Claire insisted, a slight smile on her face. "We might encounter more unexpected situations along the way."
Light nodded in response, his stoic expression unchanged. "If you insist," he replied, accepting the sword back from her.
After a short while, they reached their destination—a wooden hut nestled in the heart of a wooded area, just a few blocks away from a nearby city. They handed over the package to a seemingly young man who appeared older than both of them combined. He received it with gratitude, acknowledging their successful completion of the delivery quest.
"Thank you for delivering this safely," the man said, his voice filled with relief. "You two have done a great service."
Claire beamed with pride while Light nodded, acknowledging the man's gratitude. With his face remaining impassive, having barely an6 sense of fulfillment in his gray eyes.
"Well, if you're up for it, let's find another quest," Light replied stoically, surprising Claire with his willingness.
Claire smirked, thoroughly entertained by Light's change in attitude. "Oh, how the tides have turned. Mr. Light Gray actually wants to embark on another quest. How amusing," she said sarcastically, emphasizing his full name.
"Remember, it was you who dragged me here in the first place," Light reminded her, his emotionless demeanor intact.
"Fine, then. Let's go find another quest and continue this grand adventure," Claire said, adopting a sarcastic yet formal tone, playing along with Light's stoic nature.
On their way back to the adventurers guild, Light and Claire made a deliberate and steady journey on foot. Upon arriving, they eagerly accepted a new quest - the Bandit Troubles. The task involved dealing with a group of bandits that had been causing trouble for travelers on a nearby road. The duo was assigned to confront these miscreants and bring an end to their mischief.
With Claire exhibiting determination and Light maintaining his reluctant, emotionless demeanor, they ventured outside the guild to rendezvous with their acquaintances - a small group of fellow adventurers who were also assigned to the same mission. Together, they embarked on their journey, heading towards the bandits' location. Light and Claire's specific responsibility was to protect their companions from the threatening presence of the bandits.
Meanwhile, in the hallways of the academy, Cain receives a call from his family, who expresses concern about his sudden disappearance and his decision to join the Celestial Sword Academy.
"I'll be fine... I promise," Cain murmurs into the phone, his voice filled with a mixture of reassurance and frustration. "I'm better off here... Yeah... Yeah... It's cool here... No, they're not bullying me... NO!!! Right... Yeah... Gotcha... Love you... Bye..."
He hangs up the phone, his mind preoccupied with the conversation, as he continues to navigate the bustling hallways of the academy. As he nears the arena, he spots Marcus and Liene waiting for him, ready to support him during his upcoming test.
"No way, you two are here??" Cain exclaims in shock, his eyes widening.
"Of course! We want to be there for you and ensure you don't slip up during the test," Marcus replies with a reassuring smile.
"Wait, it's not just a written test, is it?" Cain asks, his voice filled with a hint of worry.
"Oh god, no. You'll be facing various challenges, including obstacles and opponents," Liene explains matter-of-factly.
"Ehhh..." Cain mutters, a mixture of nervousness and reluctance evident on his face.
"Come on, don't keep them waiting. You've got this," Marcus encourages, giving Cain a supportive pat on the back.
As Marcus gives him a gentle push, Cain is propelled into the massive arena. The sight before him leaves him in awe. The arena is significantly larger than the one he was accustomed to back at Dark Fire Academy. It boasts a grand stadium with rows upon rows of seats, creating an impressive spectacle.
Cain's eyes wander around the expansive arena, taking in the sheer scale of it all. The atmosphere is charged with anticipation and excitement. However, his focus quickly zeroes in on the figure standing in the center of the arena—his teacher, Kristen Waters, ready to put him to the test.
"Greetings, Cain, if I'm not mistaken," Kristen addresses him.
"Yes, ma'am," Cain replies, giving a salute out of habit.
"At ease soldier. We're not in the midst of a war," Kristen reassures him, her tone carrying a hint of amusement.
Cain lowers his hand, realizing that the formal gesture was unnecessary. He observes as Kristen activates a mechanism, causing the entire stadium to transform. The once familiar dueling ground morphs into a sprawling obstacle course, brimming with a variety of challenges. He can see spikes protruding from the ground, pendulum blades swinging perilously, and even a barrage of flaming arrows shooting across the course. Nervousness begins to creep up within Cain as he mentally prepares himself for the daunting obstacles that lie ahead.
"Now, you will navigate through this course, and your performance will be evaluated based on how well you handle the obstacles. Don't worry, even if you don't succeed, it won't result in your expulsion. We simply want to assess your strength and ability to react in challenging situations," Kristen explains, her voice projecting a sense of reassurance.
Cain's confusion and nervousness grow as he absorbs Kristen's words. The weight of the test and its implications weigh on his mind. However, his friends, Marcus and Liene, stand at a distance, offering their support and encouragement.
"You've got this, buddy!" Marcus cheers, his voice filled with confidence.
"Remember, it's okay to fail as long as you keep trying!" Liene shouts, her words a beacon of encouragement amidst the uncertainty.
Their words provide a small glimmer of reassurance to Cain, reminding him that he is not alone in this challenge. He takes a deep breath, summoning his determination and steeling his resolve. With renewed focus, he directs his gaze back to the course ahead, ready to face the obstacles that await him head-on.
Cain tightly grips his staff, a surge of determination coursing through him. The cheers from Marcus and Liene fuel his spirit, providing a much-needed boost of confidence. He stands tall, his gaze fixed on the daunting course before him, his mind focused and ready.
"Start!" instructs Kristen
With Kristen's command echoing in his ears, Cain springs into action, his staff firmly grasped in his hand. He charges forward, his gaze fixed on the "Precision Steps" course that lies ahead, ready to test his balance and agility.
The course unfolds before him, a series of narrow platforms hovering over a seemingly endless abyss. Each step he takes requires unwavering concentration and precise footwork. Cain feels the weight of the challenge as he realizes the consequences of even the slightest misstep.
With a determined shout, Cain takes his first step onto the narrow platform, his body tense with focus. He proceeds cautiously, tip-toeing his way across three successive platforms, maintaining his balance while skillfully wielding his staff.
A sense of relief washes over him as he successfully navigates the initial platforms, his careful movements paying off. Cain's surprise and gratitude are evident in his voice as he remarks, "That went better than I expected."
However, as he reaches the fourth platform, a sudden wobble throws him off balance. His body sways, threatened by the edge of the platform. For a brief moment, panic surges through him, but he manages to steady himself, regaining his equilibrium. He continues his precarious journey, resolute and undeterred.
With each subsequent step, Cain's determination grows. The pressure mounts as he approaches the final platform, the fifteenth in the series. His heart pounds in his chest, matching the intensity of the challenge before him. He places his foot onto the last platform, hoping to conclude the "Precision Steps" course triumphantly.
But fate has a different plan. Just as victory seems within his grasp, a sudden misstep causes Cain to lose his footing. His body slips, and he plummets to the floor with an audible thud. The shock reverberates through the spectators, including the impressed Kristen and the wide-eyed expressions of Liene and Marcus.
Liene's slight giggle fills the air as she lowers her hand, her amusement evident in her voice. "That's Cain for you," she says with a playful tone. "Always finding a way to surprise us."
Marcus chuckles, his eyes still wide with astonishment. "I must admit, I expected him to slip up too, but not quite like that," he says, shaking his head in disbelief. "He certainly knows how to keep us on our toes. I guess we should never underestimate him."
Cain lies on the ground momentarily, a mixture of surprise and disappointment etched on his face. He quickly realizes that even with his near-perfect performance on the previous platforms, a single moment of carelessness can lead to a devastating fall.
Regaining his composure, Cain pushes himself up from the floor. Determination glimmers in his eyes as he brushes off the mishap. He is eager to learn from his mistake, grow stronger, and conquer the next challenge that awaits him.
Kristen approaches him, a reassuring smile on her face. "Remember, failure is a part of the learning process," she says. "You showcased great balance and agility on the majority of the platforms. Let this slip serve as a lesson, and continue to push yourself forward."
With newfound resolve, Cain nods. He takes a deep breath, ready to face the next obstacle that awaits him. Though the road may be fraught with challenges, he knows that with each step, he grows stronger and more determined to prove his worth in the Celestial Sword Academy.
From their vantage point, Marcus and Liene watch as Cain dusts himself off and scratches his head, seemingly unfazed by his slip on the previous platform. Despite the momentary setback, he had managed to make it across the majority of the "Precision Steps" course successfully. They couldn't help but admire his resilience and determination.
As Cain swiftly moves on to the next challenge, a renewed sense of determination shines in his eyes. He runs towards the second obstacle, his focus unwavering. His determination to complete the obstacle course quickly becomes evident as he approaches the next test, ready to tackle it head-on.
As Cain faces the "Blade Swings" obstacle, he is met with a challenging section filled with swinging pendulum-like blades that obstruct his path. The success in this obstacle relies heavily on his timing, as he must swiftly navigate through the swinging blades, showcasing his agility and reflexes. This course is designed to enhance his ability to anticipate and react to fast-moving obstacles.
With his quick thinking, Cain taps into his magical abilities and employs a teleportation spell, instantly transporting himself to the end of the course. This unexpected use of magic shocks not only Kristen but also Marcus and Liene, as there were no explicit rules prohibiting the use of magic and skills in the test.
"Why didn't I think of that on the first course..." wonders Cain
Cain, fueled by his recent success, activates a speed boost spell and swiftly dashes through the course, arriving at the "Target Practice" section. Here, he is faced with a series of moving targets that require precise aim and control to hit with his spells.
Knowing that his teleportation spell is not suitable for this particular course, Cain quickly formulates a cunning plan. He skillfully points his staff at the targets and unleashes his most powerful spell, -Seraphic Fury-. A dazzling ball of light shoots forth from his staff, obliterating all the targets in a single, awe-inspiring display of power.
The sudden and efficient elimination of all the targets leaves everyone, including Kristen, bewildered and amazed. The sheer force and accuracy of Cain's spellcasting astound them, showcasing his exceptional control and focus.
"Uhh..." says Kristen with a confused look
Kristen, in particular, wears a puzzled expression as she tries to comprehend the unconventional approach taken by Cain. His creative solution, though unexpected, demonstrates his ability to think on his feet and adapt to various challenges. It also highlights the untapped potential of his magical abilities.
Marcus and Liene, watching from the sidelines, exchange impressed glances. They marvel at Cain's mastery of magic and the finesse with which he executes his spells. Their belief in his capabilities only grows stronger, and they eagerly anticipate what he will accomplish next.
Cain, satisfied with his performance, takes a moment to catch his breath. He is aware that he has surpassed everyone's expectations, including his own. His determination to succeed in this test surges within him, motivating him to face the remaining obstacles with unwavering resolve.
Cain proceeded to advance swiftly towards the fourth course, known as the "Leap of Faith." This challenge confronted him with a daunting gap that needed to be crossed. Without any visible bridge or platform to aid him, Cain was required to rely solely on his instincts and training. Summoning his courage, he took a leap of faith, placing his trust in his strength and agility to successfully navigate the jump to the other side. This particular section aimed to instill in him the ability to conquer fear and have faith in his own capabilities.
In a surprising turn of events, instead of using a speed boost spell to enhance his leap, Cain opted for a high jump, launching himself upwards with a burst of power. As he soared through the air, a sense of exhilaration overcame him, prompting him to let out a gleeful cry of "Weeeeee!"
Despite his initial success in reaching the other side, Cain's usual clumsiness got the better of him, resulting in a comical fall upon landing. This mixture of impressive agility and unexpected mishap both impressed and slightly disappointed the onlookers in the arena.
"Ow... Darn..." Cain muttered, acknowledging his own lack of finesse in that particular moment.
With determination, Cain propelled himself forward, leaping onto the fifth and final course known as the "Final Duel." This challenge presented him with a simulated combat scenario, pitting him against highly trained monsters. His skills as a mage were put to the test as he engaged in a dynamic battle, showcasing his ability to react swiftly, strategize, and deliver precise strikes while under immense pressure.
As the monsters closed in on him, Cain unleashed his formidable spell, -Rockslide Fury-, causing a cascade of boulders to rain down upon his adversaries. In a single devastating strike, he effortlessly dispatched the monsters, leaving them incapacitated and defeated. Kristen, taken aback by the display of power and skill, couldn't help but express her surprise.
"Ahem, Cain... You have officially passed this challenging obstacle course," Kristen announced, her eye twitching slightly as she acknowledged his remarkable accomplishment.
Amidst the cheering from Marcus and Liene, they rushed towards Cain, expressing their excitement and congratulations. Kristen, still in a state of shock, regained her composure to officially present Cain with his academy uniform, replacing his previous Dark Fire uniform from Peltas.
"Unfortunately, all the dormitories are currently occupied, so we have assigned you a roommate. But don't worry, he is understanding and has accepted your presence," Kristen informed Cain, her tone formal yet still tinged with surprise.
"That's fantastic, Cain!" Marcus exclaimed, his voice filled with genuine joy.
Cain simply nodded in response, taking in the information and adjusting to the new reality.
Kristen handed Cain his room key and a set of academy booklets, emphasizing the importance of studying them. She reassured him that his belongings from Peltas would be shipped to the academy in a few weeks, alleviating any concerns about his personal items.
"Here is your room key and your books. Study them diligently, Cain. And remember, we are here to support you," Kristen stated formally, yet with a hint of encouragement in her voice.
Kristen's departure from the arena left Cain with a lingering sense of awe at her reaction to his abilities. As Marcus and Liene bid him farewell, he made his way towards his dorm, his mind filled with anticipation and nervousness. clutching his uniform and books tightly in his hands.
Approaching his dorm door, Cain inserted the key into the lock, turning it slowly. The door creaked open, revealing a room filled with an overwhelming amount of orange. From the vibrant orange walls adorned with perplexing designs to the posters and even an enormous orange hammer hanging on the wall, the room screamed of its occupant's love for the color.
In the midst of this orange oasis sat a young man with fiery orange hair, engrossed in a shooter video game on his laptop. Upon noticing Cain's presence, he glanced over and greeted him with a friendly yet laid-back demeanor. Dylan, as he introduced himself, immediately stood up and extended a hand for a handshake.
"Yo, what's up? I'm Dylan. If I'm not mistaken, you're Cain, right?" he asked casually.
Cain, still nervous, accepted the handshake in a formal manner. Their encounter reminded him of his initial meeting with Light back at Peltas when he visited the former academy.
"Yeah, that's me," Cain replied, his voice tinged with a hint of uncertainty.
Furthermore, As Cain observed Dylan more closely, he noticed the energetic aura that seemed to radiate from him. His vibrant orange hair perfectly matched the color of his eyes, and he donned the same academy uniform that Cain held in his hand. The outfit, worn by all students at the academy, symbolized their shared journey.
Dylan or Dylan Elric Hayashi's personality appeared to be a stark contrast to Light's stoic demeanor. While Light exuded a calm and composed aura, Dylan seemed to be filled with boundless energy and enthusiasm. His friendly nature was evident in the way he interacted with Cain, offering a warm smile and an outstretched hand.
Notably, the enormous hammer resting against the orange wall caught Cain's attention. It was undoubtedly Dylan's weapon of choice, the maul that defined him as a paladin. The sight of such a formidable weapon hinted at Dylan's strength and combat prowess, and it further piqued Cain's curiosity about his new roommate.
Cain couldn't help but feel a mixture of excitement and apprehension about what lay ahead. This encounter marked the beginning of their shared journey at the academy, and it held the promise of new friendships and countless adventures. With his nervousness gradually subsiding, Cain looked forward to getting to know Dylan better and embracing the challenges that awaited them both.
Cain after their handshake, couldn't help but feel a sense of relief upon hearing Dylan's response. It was reassuring to know that his new roommate had willingly chosen to be paired with him, dispelling any lingering doubts about being an inconvenience.
As Cain settled into the vibrant orange room, he couldn't help but notice the meticulous cleanliness Dylan had maintained. The table, where Cain placed his uniform and books, appeared to have been tidied up specifically for his arrival. It was a thoughtful gesture that didn't go unnoticed.
With a hint of gratitude in his voice, Cain replied, "Thank you for preparing the room for me. I appreciate it."
Dylan waved off Cain's gratitude with a casual gesture. "No worries, man. Just wanted to make sure you felt welcome. Besides, I'm used to sharing space, so having a roommate is no big deal for me."
Cain couldn't help but be intrigued by Dylan's easygoing nature. It was clear that their personalities would provide an interesting dynamic within the room.
"I have to admit, I didn't expect such a bright and lively room," Cain remarked, glancing around at the orange-themed decorations.
Dylan chuckled, his enthusiasm infectious. "Well, I figured if I'm gonna spend a lot of time here, might as well make it feel like my own little slice of sunshine. Plus, orange is just a cool color, don't you think?"
Cain couldn't help but smile at Dylan's infectious energy. He already sensed that their time together as roommates would be filled with lively moments and a shared sense of camaraderie.
"Definitely," Cain replied, his apprehension slowly fading away.
Dylan assisted Cain in familiarizing himself with his new room and settling into the academy. Meanwhile, Light and Claire continued their escort mission with the adventurers, encountering a few monsters along the way. Light's combat prowess helped the adventurers improve their skills, and they made steady progress without any interference from bandits.
"This won't take much longer!" exclaimed Claire confidently.
"Right..." responded Light, his suspicions rising.
Light cast a wary glance at the adventurers they were escorting along the cold winter forest. However, as they neared their supposed destination, instead of finding a village as stated in the quest, they discovered an open field nestled within the white snowy forest.
"Wait, where's the village?" questioned Claire, perplexed.
"Oh, you foolish woman," sneered one of the adventurers.
Light swiftly reached for the sword Claire had provided him and positioned himself protectively in front of her.
"This was a trap, wasn't it?" Light inquired, his voice filled with sincerity.
"Bingo!" came the response from a voice in the distance.
Suddenly, a group of individuals dressed entirely in white emerged, surrounding Light, Claire, and the adventurers. They brandished an array of weapons, from daggers to swords. The apparent adventurers stepped back, now wearing white masks and drawing their own weapons.
"As I suspected, the Black Scar Clan," stated Light in a sincere tone.
Claire's eyes widened in shock as she instinctively reached for her bow, preparing to defend herself against the bandits.
"Perceptive as you are, Light..." remarked one of the apparent adventurers.
"I guess you set up that quest to trap me," responded Light with a sincere tone.
"Partially, yes..." admitted one of the bandit commanders.
The bandit who spoke suddenly turned his attention to Claire, who looked back at him in shock, realizing that this was likely revenge for their encounter at the convenience store.
"So, that's how it is... revenge," said Light sincerely.
"Correct! Good job! And now, your inescapable reward... Death," declared the bandits, their tone dripping with menace.
"If you say so..." replied Light sarcastically, his voice devoid of emotion as he readies himself with Claire for the upcoming battle that they will face...