Hunter Academy: Revenge of the Weakest

Chapter 438 100.3 - Watchers of Arcane

"And also, there is no need to hide your capabilities here."

The moment she said this, I noticed a change in her eyes. They transformed intricate patterns of interwoven lines and runes appearing within them, just like the ornate designs I had seen before.

They pulsed with a faint, otherworldly light, exuding an aura of power and knowledge.

The same wave of information had entered my head, and I kept myself in the same place after anchoring. Just as before, her eye level was clearly higher than mine.

"For you to evolve your eye, you need to have a significant achievement," Reina said, her voice steady. "And I can see the energy emanating from you. I can easily assess your overall mana strength, even if you try to conceal it."

I didn't panic, nor did I react overtly. This was something I had already anticipated. I was well aware that in this world, no one was truly omnipotent. There would always be someone who could see through your facade, no matter how well it was crafted.

At the end of the day, this was going to happen one way or another. That was why I was focusing on hiding my innate capabilities.

One doesn't need to have a strong amount of mana only to become strong. They need many other qualities. Fast thinking, good analysis. All those things are required. And you can't just 'see' those things with a simple eye.

It needs more than that since they are initial to one's very being. They are related to one's own character and how their minds work.

"I see," I replied, as if I was embarrassed. "It didn't work, huh?"

"It didn't."

"I understand." I bowed my head as if to show that I wouldn't do it anymore. "Then I will focus on proving my worth."

Reina's eyes returned to their normal state, the patterns and runes fading away. She nodded approvingly. "Good. Now, let's get you settled." She said. "For the time being, you will not be assigned to a mission immediately. First, your abilities will be tested, and you will meet other youngsters who are just as special as you. Though, you had already met two of them."

"Those two?" Recalling the two guys that had tried to test me at the start, I asked.

"Yes, them," Reina replied.

I followed her through the labyrinthine complex, my mind already strategizing and planning for the tasks ahead. This place, with its vast resources and advanced technology, could be a powerful ally—or a dangerous enemy.

It all depended on how I navigated the challenges and alliances within.

As we walked, I couldn't help but feel a sense of cautious optimism. The Watchers of Arcane had their own agenda, and so did I. If my abilities could evolve further under their guidance, it was a risk worth taking.

"Yes, them," Reina replied. "They are among the many recruits we have with unique abilities. Each one has its own strengths and specialties. It's crucial for you to understand who you'll be working with and against in the future."

I nodded, absorbing the information. "I see. And what exactly will these tests entail?"

Reina glanced at me, a small smile playing on her lips. "You'll find out soon enough. The tests are designed to push your limits and help us gauge your potential. They will cover a range of skills—combat, strategy, magic, and more."

"Understood," I said, keeping my tone neutral. "I'll be ready."

She led me through the labyrinthine corridors of the complex, explaining various aspects of the organization along the way. "The Watchers of Arcane are divided into several divisions, each focusing on different aspects of our mission. Intelligence gathering, combat operations, research and development, and more. You'll be integrated into the division that best suits your skills after your evaluation."

We arrived at a large training facility filled with advanced equipment and various training zones.

"This is where you'll be spending a lot of your time initially," Reina said. "You'll train with other recruits, learn from seasoned operatives, and undergo a series of evaluations."

I observed the room, noting the intensity and focus of the recruits. They were all highly skilled, each displaying unique talents and capabilities. It was clear that the standards here were incredibly high.

'Feels similar.'

Remembering the certain memory of the past, I couldn't help but shake my head inwardly. This place was oddly similar, though there were also some differences between them.

'The expressions are a lot different.'

The difference was the faces of those who were training. They were not filled with tiredness and were instead filled with hope.

Contrary to those at that time.

It was a clear difference.

After the introductions, Reina turned to me. "For now, get settled in your quarters. Tomorrow, your training and evaluations will begin. Use this time to familiarize yourself with the facility and the other recruits."

I nodded. "Understood, Miss Reina."

Reina smiled, nodding her head. "Good. You can access the interior of the facility and everything you need from your watch. It works even here in the special areas. The other watches will not work in this area unless you're in designated zones."

She continued, "You can eat whenever you want from the cafeteria. We have special chefs preparing meals at all hours. You should be familiar with how things work from the academy, but if you have any questions, don't hesitate to ask."

I nodded again, appreciating the thorough explanation. "Thank you, Miss Reina. I'll make sure to make the most of the resources available."

Reina's expression softened slightly. "Astron, remember that you're not just here to prove yourself but to grow and learn. The Watchers of Arcane believe in nurturing talent, not just testing it. Take this opportunity seriously, but don't forget to build relationships with your fellow recruits. They will be your allies in the field."

Building connections is the most important thing in the world, especially if you are in the Hunter field.

'You can't fight the world on your own.' n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

That is indeed the case. I knew if, even though I refused to acknowledge it before.

"I'll keep that in mind," I replied, my tone sincere.

She gave a final nod before turning to leave. "Good. I'll see you tomorrow for your evaluations. Rest well, Nominee Astron."

As Reina walked away, I took a deep breath and glanced around the facility once more. It was time to explore and familiarize myself with my new surroundings. The training facility buzzed with activity, and the recruits engaged in various exercises and drills.

'Let's see what this place has to offer.'

I activated my watch, navigating through the interface to find a map of the facility. The detailed layout displayed various zones, including training areas, research labs, dormitories, and the cafeteria. The map also highlighted the locations of different divisions and special areas.

'Impressive.'

The efficiency and organization were evident, and I appreciated the thoughtfulness that went into designing the facility. I made a mental note of key areas to visit and decided to start with the cafeteria. It would be good to grab something to eat and observe the other recruits in a more relaxed environment.

'Well, it seems like that won't be the case now.'

I thought. And then, my hand instantly went to my dagger.

SWOOSH!

Because before me, something peculiar appeared.

A face that turned down. The eyeballs were empty, as if the eyes were gouged. Blood was flowing down from the head to the hair that was somehow entangled.

And most importantly, the mouth was missing its bottom, now top, half.

'It is pretty deceptive, isn't it?'

"You have a pretty annoying ability."

I remarked, sensing the presence.

"Eeeeeh...You figured it out instantly," came the familiar voice.

The same small girl who had shown herself before made her appearance, followed by the same guy who had attacked me at that time. The girl looked small, like a young child, her features deceptively innocent. The boy, in contrast, was much larger, looking around 18. He was taller than me, his body chiseled and toned, with a lean but muscular build.

I analyzed his stance, noting the way he carried himself. His muscles were well-developed, indicating rigorous training. His left hand was slightly more prominent, suggesting he was left-handed. However, I recalled that the attack I had blocked earlier was right-handed, and even then, it had shaken me.

'This guy is strong,' I thought, my instincts sharpening.

The boy smirked, his eyes gleaming with a hint of challenge. "Looks like you're ready for round two," he said, his voice carrying a confident edge.

I didn't respond immediately. Instead, I focused on the girl. "You enjoy playing tricks, don't you?"

She giggled, the sound almost eerie in the dimly lit corridor. "It's fun to see how people react. But you're different. You don't get scared easily."

I kept my gaze steady. "What do you two want?"

"What do we want? We are just greeting our new roommate." The boy stepped forward, his movements fluid and controlled.

I raised an eyebrow. "Roommate?"

"Yes," the girl chimed in, a mischievous grin on her face. "This place doesn't have separate dorms for different sexes. We're all mixed together. Keeps things interesting."

"I see," I replied, maintaining my neutral expression.

The boy extended his hand. "I'm Kael, and this is my sister, Lyra. We've been here for a while now."

I shook his hand, noting the strength in his grip. "Astron."

Lyra gave a small curtsy, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "Nice to meet you... Astron. What a weird name….."

I nodded, releasing Kael's hand. "Likewise."

Since these guys would be my roommates from now on, it was important to have a fluid relationship and a good impression of each other.

I glanced between them, sensing a strong bond. "So, you test every new recruit?"

"Cough…..Th-"

"Not every recruit," Kael replied, his tone serious. "Just the ones we think are interesting."

"And you find me interesting?"

Lyra nodded eagerly. "Oh, absolutely. After all, you were recommended by Miss Reina here."

Lyra's eyes lit up, and she launched into an explanation. "Miss Reina is a very important person in the Watchers of Arcane. She's one of the highest-ranked members and has a significant influence in the organization. Her word carries a lot of weight."

Kael nodded in agreement. "She's not just high-ranked; she's also highly respected. If she recommended you, it means she sees great potential in you."

I absorbed this information, understanding the implications. "I see. So, her recommendation means I have big shoes to fill."

Lyra giggled. "Exactly! But don't worry. We're here to help you get up to speed."

Kael's expression turned more serious. "Reina's recommendation also means you'll be held to higher standards. But from what we've seen, you're more than capable."

I nodded, appreciating their honesty. "Thanks."

Lyra clapped her hands, her excitement palpable. "This is going to be so much fun! Come on, we'll show you around."

Kael nodded, a hint of a smile on his lips. "Yeah, let's get you settled in. There's a lot to see and learn."