The Summer Dungeon Hunt in L City had wrapped up, and Mr. Yang, along with the other teachers, stood outside, watching as students returned from the dungeon one after another. They were puzzled by the results of the event, especially with Headmaster Laszlo's sudden appearance. Some of the teachers wondered if Laszlo's visit was because Lucas's reputation as a gaming addict had tarnished the school's name.
The students who were once loudly chatting quieted down when Laszlo arrived. Everyone realized the final rankings were about to be announced.
Still, not everyone was happy with the results. "This ranking is so messed up! The worst part is that Lucas somehow scored first place while playing video games. What kind of luck is that?" one student grumbled.
That seemed to echo the feelings of many others. Sure, everyone expected Jeff, a rich kid, to perform well, but why was Lucas—who spent all his time gaming—getting the same results?
Thorne overheard and just smiled. "It's all just luck. But luck runs out when there's no real skill to back it up."
Elowen and Merritt clearly didn't agree, their faces showing their frustration. Seraphina, though silent, looked at Lucas with disappointment. She had hoped he would improve, but his gaming obsession seemed worse than she thought.
On the bus, Lucas was completely focused on leveling up his new assassin character. He couldn't care less about the whispers outside. Even if he knew, he wouldn't bother reacting. What mattered more to him was getting his new character's skills in order. With his current progress, he needed to advance his first character to unlock more skill slots.
As he was deeply immersed in the game, a shadow silently appeared beside him. Laszlo smiled, sitting next to Lucas. "You sure like playing games, don't you, kid?"
Without even looking up, Lucas replied, "No, I don't."
Laszlo almost choked. What do you mean, you don't? His smile stiffened a bit, but he kept it together. "Oh really? Then why are you glued to your screen all day?"
Internally, Laszlo was ready to explode. Does this kid think I don't know he's the school's number one gamer?
Still focused on his game, Lucas simply said, "You wouldn't get it."
Laszlo clenched his fists but forced himself to stay calm. "Well, I won't get it unless you explain."
"People who understand don't need an explanation. People who don't, won't get it no matter how much you explain." Lucas kept playing, dispatching the in-game monsters effortlessly.
Laszlo mentally rolled his eyes. He stared at Lucas, hoping to somehow pressure him into talking.
Suddenly, Lucas felt a chill. He put down his phone and saw Laszlo sitting next to him, looking thoughtful. Lucas immediately sat up straight and smiled politely. "Oh, hello, sir! Is there something I can help you with?"
This old man is creepier than any dungeon boss, Lucas thought to himself.
Laszlo let out a small laugh. "I think you've got potential, kid. With exams coming up, have you thought about which university you want to attend? Maybe I can help point you in the right direction."
Lucas blinked in surprise, not expecting this question. He studied Laszlo for a moment, then decided to be honest. "I've been thinking about Havenridge Academy. It's close, though a bit of a stretch. Mithral Institute of Technology would be cool, but it's far. Starford Institute is great, but expensive."
Despite his nonchalant tone, Lucas had clearly put thought into his university choices. These were the schools he wanted to attend.
Laszlo raised an eyebrow, holding back his frustration. Stay calm. He's just a student, he reminded himself. "Those three are the top-ranked schools in the Federation. You really think you can get in?"
Lucas nodded, dead serious. "Why not?"
Laszlo coughed lightly. "Well, you're not exactly top-tier material just yet. While your abilities are promising, getting into one of those schools is no joke. I think you should consider Lawrendell Academy. It's just as good, but with less competition."
There was a hint of smugness in Laszlo's tone, as if saying, I know your limits, kid.
Lucas thought about it for a moment, then shrugged. "I've got a month until exams. I'm confident I'll get in. And as for Lawrendell Academy, no thanks. Too many rich kids."
Laszlo blinked, surprised. "Rich kids? That's your reason?"
Lucas glanced at him, clearly not in the mood to elaborate. But under Laszlo's stern gaze, he sighed and admitted, "Because I'm broke."
Laszlo was momentarily speechless. He stroked his beard and chuckled softly. "Didn't think I'd hear that today. Someone not going to Lawrendell because of money."
Lucas put away his phone and turned away, clearly signaling the conversation was over. I'm done talking.
Laszlo coughed again, thinking of something to say. "Actually, I could pull some strings with Lawrendell Academy. They might waive your tuition if you show enough potential."
Lucas's eyes lit up. He grabbed Laszlo's hands, excited. "Really? You're serious?"
For Lucas, who had lost his parents and struggled financially, paying for university seemed impossible. Laszlo's offer sounded like a lifeline.
Laszlo nodded calmly. "Of course. But you'll need to show more than what you have so far. Three beginner-level skills aren't going to cut it."
Lucas grinned, tapping his chest confidently. "Don't worry! I'll ace the exams. I'll be top."
Laszlo's patience finally snapped. He stood up with a huff. "If you get the top spot in the exams, I'll personally pay for your tuition at Lawrendell Academy."
Lucas smiled to himself. Challenge accepted.