Hunter Academy: Revenge of the Weakest

Chapter 439 100.4 - Watchers of Arcane

As Kael and Lyra led me through the sprawling facility, showing me various training areas, research labs, and communal spaces, I couldn't help but think about why Reina seemed to be the one who recommended me.

When she first talked about the organization, she hadn't mentioned anything about finding me herself.

'It doesn't add up,' I thought. 'There's someone else behind the scenes, someone whose influence brought me here.'

I watched as Lyra pointed out the cafeteria, where recruits were eating meals prepared by specialized chefs.

Kael explained the different training regimens and the importance of honing our skills. They seemed genuinely enthusiastic about helping me get settled, but I couldn't shake the feeling that this was all another test.

'By making it seem like Reina was the one who recommended me, they're trying to see how I navigate through other recruits' views,' I speculated. 'If Reina's name carries such weight, it would make sense to use her as a proxy.'

I glanced at Kael and Lyra, who were engrossed in explaining the advanced combat simulations. They seemed earnest, but in a place like this, it was important to stay cautious.

'The likelihood of that certain someone's name being too much is also high,' I mused. 'If it were revealed that their involvement, it could draw too much attention and possibly antagonize others.'

As we continued our tour, I made sure to ask questions and show interest in the facility. "So, how are the training simulations different from what we do at the academy?" I asked Kael.

"Academy…..Right, you are from the academy. I forgot." He had a look of wondering on his head. But his reaction also gave away some information.

'It seems the cadets here are informed about each other, or is it just me? Or maybe there is a chance that those who are affiliated with something in the outside world may have viewed differently.'

Thinking that, I replied.

"Yes, Arcadia Hunter Academy."

"Hmm….." At first, he was thoughtful but then shook his head.

He smiled, clearly pleased with the question. "They're much more advanced. We use a combination of magic and technology to create realistic combat scenarios. You'll face opponents with a variety of abilities, forcing you to adapt and strategize in real-time."

"Seems like the textbook answer to me," I replied, trying to get something more.

'But, considering this place has basically a lot of information about the real world, there is a high chance that it is also used…..Maybe….'

Kael chuckled. "Fair point."

Lyra, always eager to contribute, quickly jumped in. "This place is filled with information from all over the world, different from your measly academy. There are countless different opponents you can face here, and they're not just monsters. The technology we use to create simulations might not be that different from the academy, except for one key thing."

She paused, tapping her head as if trying to remember the next part.

"The amounts of data used are a lot more, making it a lot more similar to the real thing," I finished for her.

Lyra's eyes lit up, and she nodded enthusiastically. "Exactly! That's what Miss Hellen said."

"Miss Hellen?" I asked, curiosity piqued.

Kael nodded. "She oversees the training of young recruits here. She's one of the best. You'll meet her soon enough."

"Great," I replied, noting the importance of getting on Miss Hellen's good side.

Kael led us into a training room, where recruits were sparring in pairs, using a mix of magic and physical combat. "See, this is what I mean," he said, pointing to a pair engaged in a fierce duel. "The level of realism here is unmatched."

Lyra added, "And the opponents you face in simulations are modeled after real threats. You'll encounter enemy combatants, rogue hunters, and even scenarios based on historical battles."

"Sounds intense," I said, genuinely impressed. After all, the number of things that can be done here and the implications of this were so great that I couldn't help but imagine things.

'Interesting…..'

"It is," Kael confirmed. "But that's what makes it effective. You're not just training; you're preparing for real-world situations."

As we continued our tour, I couldn't help but feel a growing sense of anticipation. This place was a treasure trove of knowledge and training opportunities, maybe even more than the academy.

'Hmm…..From the looks of it, the simulation part may be a bit better than the academy, but for other things, especially for the guidance part….They are lacking….It makes sense; the academy instructors are all high-ranking Hunters. Even then, why did they admit me to the academy? Couldn't they simply keep me here? Is it just for connections? But for such a thing, weren't there any better candidates? I am not particularly the best person for such things….

Or do they know something that I don't? Something about future knowledge? Possible, but still, this is just too…..Hard to confirm, at least.' After showing me the training areas, we made our way to the cafeteria.

"At this point, it will be a little deserted since it is pretty late. Still, you can get any meal at any time of the day, as this place is always open." The aroma of various dishes filled the air, making my stomach growl. Despite the late hour, a few recruits and staff members were still scattered around, enjoying their meals.

Kael and Lyra led me to the food stations, where a variety of options were available. "You can order anything you like," Kael said. "The chefs here are amazing."

Lyra added, "But let's make it interesting. How about we all try something special?"

I nodded, curious about what they had in mind. "Sure, what do you suggest?"

Lyra's eyes twinkled with mischief. "How about the Spicy Inferno Special? It's a dish that's known for its intense heat. Only a few can handle it."

I could see through their playful attempt to prank me, but I decided to play along. Things like these were better for easing the atmosphere and getting closer to other people, after all.

"Sounds good to me. Let's try it."

Kael grinned, clearly pleased. "Alright, three Spicy Inferno Specials, please."

The chef behind the counter raised an eyebrow but nodded, quickly preparing our order. We found a table and sat down, waiting for the food to arrive.

When the dishes were brought to our table, the fiery aroma was almost overwhelming. The vibrant red sauce practically radiated heat, and I could see small peppers floating in the dish. It was clear they had ordered it with an extra kick.

"Here we go," Lyra said, a hint of anticipation in her voice. "Bon appétit!"

I took a bite, feeling the intense heat immediately.

'Indeed, it is not normal.'

The spice was potent, but there was something these two had mistaken. Most of the time, the monster meats and the meats filled with attributes are as hurting as these ones. Since most monster meats are tempered by being exposed to mana for a long time, they tend to develop special traits.

I ordered a lot of different food in the academy just to increase the recovery of my body and maximize my training. Naturally, ordering such foods while prioritizing efficiency and effectiveness has its own disadvantages.

Most of the food I had ordered would either burn my mouth, freeze it to death, make it paralyzed and convulse, or many other things.

Therefore, I can easily say that my mouth has become accustomed to many status effects, which is the reason why I remained unfazed, continuing to eat as if it were a regular meal.

Kael and Lyra watched closely, expecting a reaction. After a few moments, Lyra couldn't contain her curiosity. "So, how is it?" she asked, her eyes wide.

I looked up, keeping my expression neutral. "It's pretty good. Not too spicy."

Lyra blinked in surprise. "Really?"

I nodded, continuing to eat calmly. "Yes, it's fine. I've had spicier."

Kael exchanged a glance with Lyra, clearly impressed. "Wow, you're tougher than you look."

"Maybe."

"Sigh….."

We continued our meal, and the atmosphere was relaxed and friendly. It seemed like a good start in this place, it seemed.

*******

After finishing our meal, Kael and Lyra led me to the sleeping quarters. The corridors we walked through were sleek and modern, the walls adorned with minimalistic designs that exuded a sense of calm and order.

"We're almost there," Kael said, gesturing ahead. "You'll find the dorms quite comfortable."

We arrived at a door with a keypad. Kael scanned his watch, and the door slid open with a soft hiss, revealing a small common area. The room was tastefully furnished with modern, minimalist decor.

A compact kitchen was tucked into one corner, complete with a sleek countertop and high-tech appliances. In the center of the room, a comfortable-looking sofa and a low table provided a cozy space for relaxing.

"This is our common area," Lyra explained. "It's where we can hang out, eat, or just relax when we're not training."

She pointed to three doors leading off from the common area. "Each of these leads to our individual rooms. Yours is the one on the right."

I nodded, appreciating the thoughtful design. "It looks great. Thanks for showing me around."

Kael smiled. "No problem. Let's check out your room."

I walked to the door on the right and opened it, stepping into my personal quarters. The room was minimalist and futuristic, with sleek lines and a monochromatic color scheme. A bed was neatly made against one wall, and a small desk with a built-in computer terminal occupied another corner. There was a door leading to a private bathroom, complete with a shower and toilet.

Lyra peered into the room, nodding approvingly. "Looks like you've got everything you need. The rooms are designed to be functional and comfortable. For a guy, at least."

"Yours is not much different."

"Humph. I am not like the rest of you. I am sm-"

"Cough…..She is just into a new series these days; please don't mind her."

"It is fine.

I set my bag down on the bed, taking in the details. The simplicity of the room was refreshing and free from unnecessary clutter. It was clear that the focus here was on efficiency and practicality.

Kael added, "If you need anything, just let us know. We will be happy to help."

"I understand."

"Then, have a good night. I am sure you have a lot to think about."

"Thank you…..And, Goodnight."

–WOOSH! As the two left the room, I waved my hand. And the door slid down.

'As expected, it works like this.'

I thought about the place while placing the layout on the map, and I formed it in my head.

As I lay down on the bed, I stared at the ceiling, my mind racing with thoughts and plans. The room was silent, save for the faint hum of the ventilation system.

It was the perfect environment to reflect on the day and strategize for the future.

'The Watchers of Arcane…'

I had to be careful about how much I revealed to them. While their resources and knowledge were invaluable, I couldn't afford to show all my cards just yet. Trust needed to be built gradually.

I thought about what they knew about me so far. They were aware of my perceptive abilities and had some idea of my combat skills from the brief encounter with Kael and Lyra, as well as Reina's observations from my duels.

They might suspect more, but they didn't know everything.

'What should I keep hidden?'

I mentally listed my abilities, weighing the pros and cons of revealing each one.

[Shadowborne]

This ability was tied to demonic energy. Given the nature of the Watchers of Arcane, it was too dangerous to reveal this now. They might see it as a threat or, worse, a reason to distrust me. I needed to keep this one under wraps until I gained enough trust and had a better understanding of their true intentions. [Celestalith]

This weapon was unique, and revealing it could attract unwanted attention. The green-colored mana and purple-colored mana it produced were distinctive. While I wouldn't hide the fact that I could use different types of mana, the specifics of [Celestalith] were better kept secret for now. [Weapon Master] Class

This was an asset I could leverage. The Watchers of Arcane had many experts, and learning from them could significantly enhance my skills. Revealing this class would show my willingness to improve and integrate into their training system. It was a strategic move that could pay off in the long run.

'Alright, that's decided.'

I needed to find a balance between revealing enough to be seen as an asset and keeping enough hidden to maintain an advantage.

Trust was a two-way street, and while I was willing to earn theirs, I couldn't be reckless.

After all, the time I had was already limited; thus, even if I had revealed everything, not all of it could be improved as rapidly as it seemed.

As I lay there, the exhaustion of the day finally caught up with me. My eyelids grew heavy, and despite the flurry of thoughts, I felt myself drifting off to sleep. Tomorrow would be another step in this journey, and I needed to be ready.

'For now, rest…'

With that final thought, I allowed myself to succumb to the pull of sleep, the quiet hum of the room lulling me into a deep, dreamless slumber.Nôv(el)B\\jnn