The sun rose high above the academy, marking the beginning of the day's advanced training.
Leonhardt walked toward the training grounds, his mind filled with thoughts of what he would learn today.
The System Window had given him a new quest, and although he didn't fully understand its mechanics yet, he knew that completing quests would make him stronger.
[QUEST AVAILABLE]
Quest: Advanced Magic Training
Description: Participate in advanced magic training and learn basic defensive techniques using the Mana Shield
Reward: 100 XP, 20 Gold Coins
"Mana Shield," Leonhardt muttered as he walked. "This is my chance to master magical defense."
Offensive magic like Fireball was important, but the ability to defend was just as crucial, especially if he wanted to survive in this harsh world.
Upon arriving at the training grounds, the Mage students were already gathered around the Magic Instructor, a middle-aged man wearing a long robe. The instructor's sharp gaze surveyed the students, ready for today's lesson.
"Today, we will focus on defensive magic," the instructor's voice rang out clearly in the morning air.
"You've all learned the basics of offensive spells. But remember, in battle, a strong defense is just as important as a powerful attack."
Leonhardt stood at the back of the group, waiting for further instructions. Some students around him shot glances his way, a few curious, and others filled with the usual mockery he had grown accustomed to.
The Magic Instructor looked at each student in turn.
"Today, we'll be learning the Mana Shield, a basic magical barrier that can absorb both physical and magical attacks."
Leonhardt nodded slightly. Mana Shield was one of the skills he had seen in the System Window, and now it was time to truly learn how to use it.
The students began practicing, trying to summon the Mana Shield to protect themselves. Some managed to create solid shields in front of their bodies, while others struggled.
Leonhardt extended his hand, trying to feel the magical energy flowing through his body. He focused his thoughts on the lesson, attempting to summon the Mana Shield as instructed.
"Mana Shield," he whispered.
[SKILLS]
Mana Shield (Level 1): Creates a barrier that absorbs 50 physical damage. Costs 20 MP
A thin shield appeared in front of him but quickly shattered. Leonhardt frowned, slightly frustrated with the result.
"Focus," he thought. He knew that magic wasn't just about power, but about concentration and control.
He tried again. This time, a more solid shield formed, though it was still small. The Mana Shield lasted longer before eventually fading. Leonhardt nodded, feeling a bit more satisfied with his effort.
The Magic Instructor observed from a distance, saying nothing, but it was clear he was monitoring each student's progress.
Some students began to show off their abilities, with a few managing to create large, stable Mana Shields, while others continued to struggle. Leonhardt could hear quiet laughter from some students who felt superior to the rest.
"Ainsworth can't do anything as usual," muttered a nearby student.
Leonhardt ignored the comment. He didn't have time to respond to such taunts. To him, the only thing that mattered was continuing to train and strengthen himself.
As the practice progressed, the students were instructed to attack each other's shields, testing the strength of the Mana Shields they had created.
Leonhardt was paired with a student named Elric, a Mage known for his strong magic and from a well-known noble family.
Elric smirked as they faced each other.
"Are you ready, Ainsworth?" he asked mockingly. "I won't hold back."
Leonhardt simply nodded, staying calm and indifferent.
"Just do it," he replied briefly.
Elric started his attack, hurling a small fireball at Leonhardt. Leonhardt quickly activated his Mana Shield, and the barrier successfully withstood the first strike. Although a slight crack appeared at the edge, the shield didn't break.
Elric looked surprised but didn't back down.
"You think that's enough?!" he shouted as he prepared his next magical attack.
Leonhardt remained calm, tightening his focus on the Mana Shield. The second fireball hit the barrier, but this time Leonhardt was more prepared.
The shield held up better than before, and although it cracked, it didn't shatter.
Elric seemed frustrated but eventually backed off, realizing his attacks weren't enough to break Leonhardt's defense.
"Tch, you got lucky this time," he muttered before turning away.
After the training session ended, Leonhardt felt physically tired, but a sense of satisfaction flowed through him. The quest was complete, and the System Window appeared again in front of him.
[QUEST COMPLETE]
Advanced Magic Training
Reward: 100 XP, 20 Gold Coins
"XP and Gold Coins," Leonhardt murmured.
He still wasn't sure how all of this would help him in the long run, but one thing was clear the System Window gave him an advantage no one else had.
As he prepared to leave, the instructor approached him.
"Ainsworth," the instructor said seriously. "Control your energy better.
"Your focus needs improvement, but you have potential. Don't waste it."
Leonhardt nodded. Though he didn't like being told what to do, he knew the instructor was right. There was still much to learn, but now he had a clear direction.
"I'll get stronger," Leonhardt thought as he walked away.
"No matter what others say, I'll keep moving forward."