"Something important? What exactly do you want to talk to me about?" I asked her again, but she just winked at me in response.
"Of course, I wouldn't tell you in a place like this," said the Director, winking again.
"Ikarius, please don't repeat your actions that could harm others," Director Emilia scolded him gently.
Ikarius nodded and looked back at me, as if to say this wasn't over yet, then turned and walked away. "And all of you, return to your dormitories immediately. The bell has rung, indicating it's time for you to rest," she instructed the other students.
The corridor emptied as the students headed back to their dorms. I walked alongside Director Emilia, heading toward my dormitory.
As the tension in the hallway subsided, Director Emilia motioned for me to follow her. We walked together through the academy's corridors, with other students whispering and glancing curiously at us. Starlight streamed through the high windows, casting intricate patterns on the polished floors as we made our way to my dorm.
"Eizan," Director Emilia began, her voice calm but carrying a strong tone of authority, "I have been closely observing your progress."
I glanced at her, slightly confused but intrigued. "Is there something you want to discuss, Director?"
She nodded, her eyes focused ahead. "Your skills and dedication have not gone unnoticed. Your ability to manipulate Mana and your leadership qualities show great potential. Therefore, I have an offer for you."
My curiosity peaked, and I walked with growing interest. "An offer?"
She stopped, turning to face me. Her expression was serious yet encouraging. "I want to offer you the opportunity to become a Tier Three Knight."
My heart pounded at her words. A Tier Three Knight was a highly esteemed position, given only to those truly talented and dedicated. "A Tier Three Knight? But... am I ready for such a responsibility?"
Director Emilia gave a faint smile. "I believe you are, Eizan. Your experience and skills have shown that you can face this challenge. With this position, you will have access to better training and resources, as well as the opportunity to grow even further."
We continued walking towards my dormitory, my mind filled with various considerations. "What do I need to do to qualify as a Tier Three Knight?"
She gently patted my shoulder. "You have already shown exceptional abilities. Now, you just need to keep training and prove yourself worthy through a series of tests and missions that will be assigned to you."
When we reached the door of my dorm, Director Emilia stopped and looked at me with full confidence. "Think carefully about this offer, Eizan. It's a great opportunity that doesn't come twice."
I nodded, feeling a mix of excitement and great responsibility. "I will consider it seriously, Director. Thank you for your trust."
She smiled again before turning and walking away. I stood in front of my dorm door, contemplating the future full of challenges and new opportunities.
I opened the dorm door and stepped inside. The warm and familiar atmosphere welcomed me. I closed the door slowly, trying to digest what had just been discussed with Director Emilia. Before I could think further, Alex, who was sitting at his desk, immediately stood up and looked at me in confusion.
"Eizan, what's going on? I saw you walking with Director Emilia. Is there a problem?" he asked with a worried tone.
I took a deep breath and smiled, trying to reassure Alex. "Relax, Alex. There's no major problem. Actually, Director Emilia made a very surprising offer."
Alex looked at me with curiosity. "An offer? What kind of offer?"
I walked to my bed and sat down, trying to find the right words. "She offered me the chance to become a Tier Three Knight."
Alex's eyes widened in surprise. "A Tier Three Knight? That's incredible, Eizan! But, what will you do? Will you accept it?"
I sighed again, feeling a mix of excitement and confusion. "I'm still thinking about it. It's a big responsibility, and I need to be ready to face all the challenges."
Alex sat beside me, patting my shoulder warmly. "You can definitely do it, Eizan. I've always seen how hard you train and how dedicated you are. You deserve this chance."
Alex's words gave me the encouragement I needed. "Thank you, Alex. Your support means a lot to me."
We sat in silence for a moment, contemplating a future that might change. "What do you think, Alex? Am I really ready for this?"
Alex smiled broadly. "If there's one thing I know, Eizan, you're always ready for anything. Don't hesitate to take this opportunity. We'll always be here to support you."
I felt a new sense of determination flow within me. This offer was a great opportunity, and with the support of my friends, I knew I could face it. "Alright, I'll seriously consider it. But first, we need to get ready for today's training and classes."
I looked at Alex with great curiosity. Even though I've been at Axeris Academy for a while, I still felt like I didn't fully understand the Knight system and its rankings. Alex, who always seemed to know more, might be able to explain it more clearly to me.
"Alex, can you explain more about the Knights and their rankings? I really want to understand before making a decision," I asked seriously.
Alex smiled, seemingly happy to share his knowledge. He sat in his chair, facing me, ready to explain. "Alright, Eizan. The Knight system at Axeris Academy is actually quite complex, but I'll try to explain it simply."
"First, a Knight is a title given to students who show exceptional ability in Mana manipulation and combat. They are recognized protectors and warriors of the academy. There are several ranks in the Knight system, reflecting one's abilities and achievements," Alex began his explanation.
"The first rank is Tier One Knight. This is the basic level, where students start showing basic abilities in Mana manipulation and combat. They are usually still in the learning stage and honing their skills," Alex continued.
"The second rank, Tier Two Knight, is given to those who have shown significant progress. They already have a better understanding of techniques and strategies, and can control Mana more efficiently. Tier Two Knights often become mentors for younger students."
I nodded, trying to digest the information. "What about Tier Three Knights?"
"Tier Three Knights are a higher level and much harder to achieve. Only a few manage to reach this rank because it requires dedication, intensive training, and exceptional ability. Tier Three Knights are recognized as elite warriors and are often given special missions by the academy. They also have privileges, such as access to better training facilities and direct guidance from the academy's top officials," Alex explained enthusiastically.
"But that's not all. Above Tier Three Knights, there are Tier Four and Five Knights. Tier Four Knights are veterans with years of experience and have undergone various difficult missions. They often become commanders in battles or main trainers at the academy," Alex continued with enthusiasm.
"And finally, Tier Five Knights are the highest. They are living legends who have reached the pinnacle of their abilities. Only a handful of people in history have ever reached this level. They possess almost unrivaled power and usually hold honorable positions in the world of magic and combat."
I was amazed by Alex's explanation. "So, if I accept the offer to become a Tier Three Knight, I have to be ready to face a lot of responsibilities and challenges."
Alex nodded. "That's right, Eizan. Becoming a Tier Three Knight is not an easy task, but I believe you can do it. You have great potential, and with your talent, you can reach even higher."
With new determination, I felt ready to embark on this long and challenging journey. My goal was now clear: to become more than just a Knight, perhaps someday, even achieve the title of Arch Knight.