That night at dinner...
Tedric and Elizabeth were enjoying a quiet evening, discussing their respective days.
"So, how was your visit to Postknight HQ?" Elizabeth asked, slicing her meal with a smile.
"You know how it is," Tedric replied casually, his tone lighthearted. "It's always refreshing to visit Commander Casandra. Despite holding one of the most important positions, her childlike behavior is still so... well, refreshing."
Elizabeth chuckled. "What did she think of your new recruits?"
"Huh! Most of the recruits this year impressed her," Tedric said, grinning. "That's great news, especially since we've been dealing with some issues from suddenly more aggressive creatures."
Elizabeth raised an eyebrow. "What do you mean by 'suddenly more aggressive creatures'?"
Tedric was about to respond when the doorbell rang, interrupting their conversation.
"Who could that be?" Elizabeth asked, glancing toward the door.
"Don't know. Let's see," Tedric said, rising from his seat and walking toward the door. He opened it to reveal Solis standing there, looking a bit hesitant.
"Hey, Solis, what brings you here at this hour?" Tedric asked in his usual friendly and laid-back manner, his grin wide.
"Sir, I... actually have some questions to ask you. May I?" Solis said politely, trying to maintain composure despite the late hour.
"Wow, no need for the 'sir' outside of drills or academia. Just call me Ted," Tedric chuckled. "And sure, I'll answer your questions. After all, that's what I'm paid for, right?" He laughed again, his voice full of warmth.
"Oh, Tedric, please," Elizabeth interjected, frowning slightly. "He's your student, not a stranger. Don't be ridiculous."
"Ah, my bad," Tedric said, rubbing the back of his head with a sheepish grin. "Well then, come on in, Solis. Take a seat."
Elizabeth stood up, giving Tedric a disapproving look before turning to Solis. "I'll be in the next room. If you need anything, feel free to ask. You boys have a good chat."
"Yeah, thanks, Elizabeth," Tedric said, waving her off.
After Elizabeth left, Tedric turned back to Solis, his demeanor shifting to something more serious. "Alright, what's on your mind?"
Solis took a deep breath before speaking. "It might sound strange, but... how were you able to instill fear in those wolves back then?"
Tedric gave Solis a knowing look. "Hmm... so you noticed that, huh? Did you feel any pressure, or... maybe a sense of restlessness at the time? A bit uneasy?"
Solis thought for a moment. "Well... now that you mention it, I did feel a little off, but I didn't pay much attention since I was so exhausted from the fight."
Tedric nodded. "That's understandable. Let me tell you, what I used back there is called Willpower Projection Art. It's a difficult technique to learn, but it can be very powerful. It's all about using your willpower as a weapon—whether it's to instill fear, command respect, or even overcome mental or physical obstacles."
Solis' eyes widened in awe. "That's incredible! Can I learn it too? Would you teach me?"
Tedric smiled, though it was a bit serious. "As I said, it's not easy to master. But if you're really serious about it, I can teach you—under one condition."
Solis leaned forward eagerly. "What is it? I'll do anything!"
Tedric's tone grew firm. "First, tell me why you want to learn this technique."
Solis hesitated, his voice lowering. "Because I want to be stronger. I can't just rely on my speed forever. I need other ways to take down enemies."
Tedric studied him for a moment. "Are you frustrated about what happened in the forest today?"
Solis' eyes flickered with a hint of anger. "Yeah... I felt helpless. Like a rat trapped in a corner. I never want to feel that weak again."
Tedric's expression softened, his gaze understanding. "I see. You're desperate to get stronger. But remember, real strength doesn't come overnight. It's about building both your body and your mind."
Solis nodded, determination in his eyes. "So, what do I need to do?"
Tedric crossed his arms. "Before I teach you that technique, you need to make your mind strong enough to project your will. And to do that, you'll need to solve puzzles every day. How about you come here every day after classes?"
Solis nodded quickly. "Yeah, that works. But is that enough?"
Tedric shook his head. "No."
Solis blinked in confusion. "Why not?"
Tedric's expression grew more serious. "Because you need to strengthen your body too. So, here's the deal: 100 sit-ups, 100 squats, 100 push-ups, and 100 dumbbell lifts. Do that every day until you pass the Rank D exam and become a Rank D Postknight. Then, and only then, will I teach you the technique."
Solis looked a bit overwhelmed but nodded determinedly. "Okay, Ted. I'll do it. But... why so much preparation?"
Tedric smiled slightly, his gaze distant. "You'll understand in time."
---
Later that night...
Solis left the house around 10:30 PM, his mind swirling with new tasks and expectations. He didn't notice the shadowy figure watching him from the alley across the street.
The figure stepped out of the darkness, a faint smile playing on his lips. "Hmm... so this is Solis, the one Tedric was talking about. He seems... interesting."