It had already been a week since the new candidates were selected for postknight training. The first week was dedicated entirely to theory classes. During this time, Solis met many people, including the instructors.
Tedric, the head instructor, was a no-nonsense individual who specialized in teaching fighting styles, weapon types, and their compatibility with different users and situations. His lessons on stances emphasized their importance in combat. Maggy, the second instructor, was precise and methodical, teaching material management and item information. Tiara, with her bright and approachable demeanor, handled crafting lessons, showing how to use materials to create equipment and war gears. Then there was Oliver, a calm and composed instructor who focused on map navigation. Lastly, Yug, an eccentric yet knowledgeable instructor, taught potion-making and the fundamentals of magic.
The candidates were also given a Postknight guild book, filled with detailed information about various creatures found within Prism Kingdom and beyond.
On the final day of the week, Tedric made an announcement.
---
"Good morning, everyone," Tedric's deep, commanding voice resonated across the training ground. "It seems all of you are present. Today, you'll have your first practical assessment. Let's begin by dividing you into teams of two."
A murmur of excitement rippled through the group as Tedric revealed seven wooden draws.
"Each of you will pull one," he instructed, stepping back to observe.
The candidates lined up and took their draws.
"Now, show me your results," Tedric said.
One by one, they revealed their draws.
Tedric nodded, his expression slightly amused. "Hmm, exciting. Ada and Vaidya, you're in one team. Lina and Patric will form another. Almond and Razille, you're together. As for you, Solis…"
Before Tedric could finish, Vaidya, ever observant, interjected.
"Sir, isn't this a little unfair? There are only seven candidates, so one person will be left alone," he pointed out.
Tedric gave a small smile, clearly anticipating the question. "Yes, I'm aware of that. Don't worry, Solis won't be alone. He'll team up with one of his seniors."
Solis's ears perked up at the mention of a senior. "Who's my partner, sir?" he asked curiously.
Tedric turned to him. "Her name is Pearl. She's been with us for two years but is still working toward her Rank D badge. For now, she's doing local deliveries. She'll be your guide for this assessment. Do you understand?"
"Yes, sir. When should I leave?" Solis replied with a determined nod.
Tedric's expression turned serious. "Before you head out, all of you need to equip yourselves. Go to the armory and select a weapon suitable for you."
"Yes, sir!" the candidates chorused before heading toward the armory.
Solis scanned the rows of weapons thoughtfully before settling on a sword. Once equipped, he approached Tedric again.
"Sir, I'm ready. May I leave now?" Solis asked.
Tedric glanced at him and gave an approving nod. "Go ahead. Pearl will give you the delivery details. Remember to stay alert."
"Yes, sir," Solis replied, setting off for the nearby village.
---
After some time, Solis reached the village and spotted Pearl. She was a sweet-looking girl with white hair tied in a ponytail, her expression warm yet focused.
"You must be Solis," she said, her voice gentle but firm. "The one Mr. Tedric mentioned?"
Solis offered a friendly smile. "Yup, that's me. And you must be Pearl, right?"
"That's right," she confirmed, offering a slight nod. "Let me brief you. Today, we'll be delivering some medicines to Riverside Hospital, about 8 kilometers from here. Any questions?"
"Nope, I got it. Let's go then," Solis said with cheerful enthusiasm.
Pearl chuckled softly at his eagerness but quickly added a note of caution. "One more thing—be aware of Roblins along the way. They often target humans to steal their belongings, especially Postknight Scrolls."
She held up a scroll for him to see. It was elegantly crafted, with a faint magical aura surrounding it.
"So, this is the Postknight Scroll? The revolutionary discovery in history? Wow, it's so cool," Solis said, his eyes lighting up in awe.
Pearl smiled at his excitement. "Yes, this is it. It's essential for our work. Now that everything is set, let's start our journey."
"Sure!" Solis said, then hesitated. "Uh… how should I address you?"
Pearl blinked, slightly surprised by the question. Then she laughed softly. "Just call me by my name—Pearl."
"Alright, Pearl," Solis said with a grin.
And so, their journey began.