Chapter 436 - Watchers of Arcane
The northwest entrance to the human domain stood as a formidable barrier, its gates flanked by vigilant patrols. The thick forest and treacherous mountain paths surrounding it added to its impregnability.
The guards, clad in sturdy armor and armed with sharp spears, stood at attention, unaware of the approaching storm.
From the shadows of the dense foliage, the solitary figure emerged. His steps were silent, a predator moving through the night, every motion precise and deliberate. The same wind that swirled in the cave now whispered through the trees, heralding his approach.
With eyes that gleamed like molten gold, he fixed his gaze on the entrance. His presence alone was enough to send shivers down the spines of the patrols. One guard turned, his eyes widening in shock as he caught sight of the intruder.
RUMBLE!
"Intruder!" the guard shouted, raising his spear in alarm.
Before the sound could fully escape his lips, the figure moved. In a blur of motion, he closed the distance between them, his fist connecting with the guard's chest. The impact was cataclysmic, a single punch that shattered armor and bone alike. The guard crumpled to the ground, lifeless.
The other patrols rushed to intercept, but their efforts were futile. With each strike, the figure dispatched them with ease, their bodies falling like leaves in a storm. The once secure entrance was now a scene of chaos and death.
As the last guard fell, a new presence made itself known. Beside the figure, seemingly materializing from the very shadows, stood a young being.
Draped in an elegant robe that flowed like water, his movements were a dance; each step imbued with grace and purpose.
The young being's face was serene, almost ethereal, eyes reflecting an otherworldly intelligence. He regarded the carnage with a calm detachment, then turned his gaze to the figure beside him.
THUD!
In an instant, he knelt down, his eyes looking to the ground.
"Sir Cadmus."
Cadmus nodded once more. "Is the thing I asked for ready?"
The robed man replied, "Yes, your request is ready." With a fluid motion, he produced a hologram from within his robes.
The hologram depicted a scene where a young boy, whose eyes also turned vertically yellow, stood with an intense expression. The boy's voice echoed through the projection, filled with power and determination.
[By the will of my call, father of all,]
[Hear my cry through the storm's enthrall.]
[With the power of thunder in hand,]
[I summon the heavens to strike this land.]
As Cadmus heard this, an immense pressure surged through his body, a raw power that radiated outward. The air around them seemed to ripple, and the very ground beneath them trembled.
The pressure was so intense that it crushed the lifeless bodies of the fallen guards, turning them into mush.
His eyes were locked down onto the hologram.
"Einherjar."
He mumbled the name.
*******
A cab pulled to a stop at the edge of Arcadia City, where the urban landscape gave way to more secluded surroundings.
Inside stood a young man as he paid the driver and stepped out, the sounds of the city fading as he walked down a narrow, dimly lit path leading into the outskirts.
The path was lined with tall, overgrown foliage, casting long shadows that danced in the moonlight.
"Choosing such a place…."
Out of all the places it could have been chosen, it was this place. A place where countless different crimes had been committed.
Even now, he could feel some gazes on him.
Astron's senses were on high alert, every rustle and whisper in the night air sharpening his focus.
'Though, they are most likely from the organization.'
There was a reason why he hadn't used his stealth abilities, especially his [Shadowborne]. Since he was sure he was being watched.
The smartwatch's map guided him deeper into the outskirts, leading him to an old, abandoned structure partially hidden by the overgrowth.
He checked the time—7:55 P.M. He was early, just as he intended. Taking a moment to survey the area, he noted the strategic advantages and potential exits, preparing himself for any unforeseen circumstances.
As the clock ticked closer to 8:00 P.M., the watch vibrated again. A new message appeared:
"Enter and follow the light."
A faint glow emanated from within the structure, casting eerie shadows against the crumbling walls.
–WROOM!
Following that, a portal opened right before his face.
"..."
Yet, he hadn't entered, just looking at the portal itself. The reason for that?
'The portal is flawed. It is a trap.'
He was able to sense what was happening right before his face. The portal, though opened via spatial manipulation, was, in fact, not connected to anything.
What did this mean?
It meant that the place was a pocket space and unstable since pocket spaces were never meant to be stable to begin with.
Thus, he did what he needed to.
SWOOSH!
Threw a dagger right through the portal.
STAB!
Following that, his ears perked up, and the sound of something stabbed came from the portal.
In an instant, something rushed through the portal toward him. A monstrous creature, its face contorted in agony, its body bleeding from multiple wounds, lunged at him with ferocity.
The monster's claws were aimed directly at his face, moving with deadly speed. Astron remained calm, his mind working faster than his body.
Instead of focusing on the immediate threat of the claws, he raised his dagger to his right, anticipating a different danger.
CLANK!
The sound of metal clashing against metal echoed in the chamber. At the same moment, the monster's claws passed through his face, dissipating like smoke.
It was an illusion, a clever deception meant to distract him from the real threat.
Astron's dagger had blocked a hidden blade aimed at his side. A figure emerged right before him out of nowhere, retracting the blade and stepping back with a hiss.
"Impressive," the figure said, its voice a raspy whisper. "You sensed the illusion and the real attack. Not many can do that."
The figure seized him from head to toe.
–ẘ̸̬̓͐̃̓̇̈́̽͛͋̚̚h̴̨̨͕̘̮̞̟̜̦̲͕̜͉͛ḭ̴̎̿̇̋́̇s̴̢͉͉͉͇̦̯̓̌̏̔̾̃̋̃̈̈́̐p̷̨̛͖͎̦̥̬̺̯̌̀̈̎̀̇̐̓̐̆͝ę̴̲̱̠̼̞̲͔͎͕̼̃̃́͘͝ŗ̵̢͈̮̞̙̩̝̗̙͉̖̽̂͝͝ ̴̞̠͈̖̣͇̹̣̩̗̪̗̉̔̈́̚͜w̷̢̠̺̺̠̱̝̠͈̹͊̀̅̆̍͗̑͜h̶̢̧̳̞̖̼̲̦̍̀̾̆͆̅̓͊͂̇͋̕̚͝í̸̧̛̞̣̞̐͊̌͆̍̓̽̏̅̈́̚̚ś̷̨̝̪̥͚̞̫̯̩ͅp̴̧͙̳̜̙̈̔͂͆̅͌͠ͅe̷̡̗̗̅̉̔̎̀̇̌͘͠͝ŕ̶̨͉̒̊̽͋̌͒̕͝͠͝ ̴̨̛̛͉͈̪̼͎̲̣̥̮̼̖̞̍̾͊̄̊́̃͠ͅw̷̛̫͕̣̗͓̪̘̮̙͙͚̩̩̰̔̀͌̄͌̎̏̈̐̕h̶̢̡̟̖̼̮̮̦̲̞̳̗͐̊͂͗̈́͆̓͌́́̉̊̕̚͠į̸̡͓̲͚̙̲̝͔̲̬̍̇͘͝s̷̡̛̙͍̤͙̿́̌͌̆̔͘̕͝p̸̧̧͎͎̻̬͉̯̫̞̭͚̟͐͗́͜͠ͅe̶̢̡̘̲̳͍̪̹̘͖͚̬̱̯̜͆̃͌̇̚r̴̦̬̮̻̘͇̖̺͔̦͔̙͔̹̃̓͛͗͌͌͗̒̓̇͠͝ͅ ̸̯͇͍̹̮͕̻̩̟̣̯̫͇̈́̋̊̅̆̾̊̀͋͘̕͜͝͝
At that moment, countless different whispers enveloped them, and then another figure revealed itself.
This time, the figure was a lot smaller compared to the first one who had shown himself.
"How did you find out?" the small figure asked, curiosity evident in their tone.
Astron took a deep breath, his gaze steady. "The sound of something getting stabbed came from the portal, but I had already withdrawn the blade once I threw it."
He raised his hand, revealing small grey strings attached to his fingers, leading back to the dagger he had thrown. "Since I had withdrawn the dagger, it wouldn't make sense for something to get hit. Yet, such a sound still came from the portal."
The childlike figure tilted its head, pondering Astron's explanation. They put their index finger to their lips in thought. "So, using such a trigger mechanism itself has a flaw... Next time, I need to change the conditions of the triggering."
Astron nodded slightly, appreciating the analytical approach. "Indeed. A different method might be more effective."
The first figure, still cloaked in shadows, chuckled. "You're not only perceptive but also unshaken. Impressive, indeed."
Astron glanced at the two figures. "Is this assessment over, or is there more you need from me?"
The childlike figure stepped forward, their eyes gleaming with a mix of curiosity and admiration. "I had my doubts since the new member was pretty young, but it seems my doubts were mistaken."
Before the childlike figure could say more, a presence materialized behind her. Reina stepped out of the shadows with a swift, silent grace. Her eyes locked onto the young figure, irritation clear in her gaze.
"Who gave you permission to conduct this test?" Reina's voice was sharp as she reached out and grabbed the young figure by the ear, causing the childlike figure to wince.
"I-I was just curious," the young figure stammered, trying to pull away, but Reina's grip was firm.
"Curiosity does not excuse unauthorized actions," Reina scolded. "You know better than to act without approval."
Astron watched the interaction, noting the dynamics between them. Reina, while stern, seemed more exasperated than truly angry as if this was a recurring issue with the young figure.
'I see. Either a unique mental condition because of a certain backstory, or a uniqueness stemming from a trait.'
He thought, analyzing the young figure. There were many powers that had affected the users, traits that limited the actions of the user itself.
From how it looked outside, it was evident that this young one had a special condition.
'And, I should stop viewing her as a young one. She is still using illusions to make her seem small. What a weird bunch.'
He thought.
Reina released the young figure's ear, giving her a final stern look before turning to Astron. "I apologize for this... unauthorized test. It was not part of your scheduled assessment."
Astron nodded, maintaining his calm demeanor. "There is no problem."
Reina's expression softened slightly as she addressed the young figure. "Return to your quarters and reflect on your actions. We will discuss this later."
The young figure nodded, casting a quick glance at Astron before scurrying away, leaving Reina and the shadowy figure alone with him.
Reina sighed, her composure returning. "Now, let's proceed with what we originally intended."
She stopped and then smirked.
"Are you ready to see something interesting?"
"..."
Before he could even answer, she flicked her fingers.
Suddenly, everything became blurry. Countless whispers overwhelmed him, and a torrent of information surged into his ears.
Astron felt like he was losing himself in an ocean of knowledge and sound. The sheer volume and intensity threatened to drown his very essence.
Yet, this time was different from the last.
On the last time, he was not able to keep himself away from the effects of the flow of information, yet he knew such a thing could happen.
And to deal with that, he remembered a certain moment when Lilia had used [Magnetism] as an anchor to show arrows without even touching them.
Anchor.
By creating an anchor, he would allow himself to stay away from the flow of the information, removing the risk.
Astron focused intently on his very conscience.
He visualized an anchor, a tether to the real world, something solid to cling to amidst the chaos.
'Focus...' he commanded himself, forming the anchor in his mind. It took the shape of a small, unyielding island in a stormy sea, a place where his consciousness could rest and remain grounded. He concentrated on this mental image, pouring his will into it.
Gradually, the chaos began to recede. The whispers grew fainter, and the deluge of information slowed to a manageable trickle. Astron felt his consciousness stabilizing, the anchor holding firm.
When his vision cleared, he found himself standing in a different room. It was vast and illuminated by a strange, ethereal light that seemed to come from nowhere and everywhere at once. Symbols and runes adorned the walls, pulsing with a faint, otherworldly glow.
Reina stood before him, a satisfied smile playing on her lips. "Impressive," she said. "Just by seeing it once, you were able to anchor yourself. Most wouldn't be able to do that. You truly are a promising recruit."
Astron took a deep breath, steadying himself. "What was that?"
"A test," Reina replied, her tone matter-of-fact. But after seeing the look Astron gave to her, she coughed. "It was a joke."
Reina continued her tone, now more serious. "We have crossed dimensions. This is not just another room."
Suddenly, as if a veil was removed, the walls around them began to dissolve into thin air, revealing an expansive, bustling space. Astron's eyes widened slightly as he took in the sight before him.
They stood on a raised platform overlooking a massive underground complex. The scale of it was staggering. People moved with purpose, some running from place to place, while others were deeply engaged with advanced technological equipment. Holographic screens floated in the air, displaying streams of data, maps, and tactical information.
Reina gestured broadly, a proud look on her face. "Welcome to the Arcadia Base."
Chapter 437 - Watchers of Arcane (2)
In a world where mana exists, you are bound to see things that don't completely make sense on Earth or things that look like they came out straight out of the movie.
I mean, I myself, had seen the world go completely white, the skies rumble and thunder bow down, or someone making a complete nuke.
All of them were made by just young people at the age of 16. So, it is clear that this world is completely extreme on many ends.
But, even then.
'This is…..'
It was enormous.
The vast underground complex stretched out before me, its sheer scale taking me by surprise. It was a labyrinthine expanse of corridors, rooms, and open areas, all interconnected with a meticulous design that spoke of advanced planning and engineering.
The ceiling, far above, was lined with an intricate network of support beams and conduits, their surfaces gleaming under the ethereal light that seemed to permeate the entire space.
This light, though artificial, felt strangely natural, casting a soft, even glow over everything.
Directly below the platform where I stood with Reina, the complex teemed with activity. People move with purpose, and their actions are coordinated and efficient. Groups huddled around holographic displays, their faces illuminated by the glow of data streams and maps.
Countless different psions were flowing across the place, whose attributes didn't make sense to me.
My eyes that could see the psions themselves were getting overwhelmed by the raw information they were receiving.
Even when I was under the mine, where countless different mana veins were spread across the ground, the number of psions was not even close to this.
'Urghk!'
As the immense amount of headache struck me, I instantly forced myself to turn down [Perceptive Insight].
If I hadn't done that, I was sure my brain would turn itself off, and I would lose consciousness right here, right there.
'What was that?'
Yet, of course, I couldn't help but ask myself. How come such a dense amount of psions were spread across the place, and their attributes were unknown?
'Unknown...'
"Impressive, isn't it?" Reina's voice cut through the ambient noise, her tone laced with pride. "This is the heart of our operations. Every mission, every strategy is planned and executed from here."
I nodded, my mind still reeling from the sheer scale of the place. The maze of corridors, the bustling activity, the overwhelming density of psions—it was unlike anything I had ever encountered.
"You seem to have already figured out how to control your eyes," Reina said, turning to look at me with a knowing smile.
I narrowed my gaze at her, curiosity and suspicion mixing in my mind.
'Eyes….'
It was evident what she was talking about, but it was still important to understand what she meant.
"What do you mean by that?"
Reina didn't answer immediately. Instead, she gestured towards the vast expanse of the base below us. "This whole place is a base for agents across the world. But how do you think they communicate?"
I furrowed my brow, thinking hard. That was what I had been thinking about as well. Since from the start, this place was another dimension. Thus, using something physical like electromagnetic waves would not be possible to transmit the information.
After all, even though electromagnetic waves can travel on the empty space, that doesn't mean they can just cross dimensions. For such a thing to happen, one would need something that can act as a bridge.
And what would that be?
The answer is evident.
Mana.
After all, if something can create a space rupture or a pocket space, why can't it pass through some space holes?
'I see.'
The sheer number of positions with unknown attributes that I had seen earlier began to make sense. I realized what those positions were.
"They are psions attributed by an [Authority]," I said, the pieces falling into place. "The Authority of Information."
Reina's smile widened, impressed by my deduction. "Very perceptive. Yes, these psions are indeed attributed by an Authority. They facilitate instant communication, data transfer, and real-time surveillance across the globe. They are the lifeblood of our operations."
I recalled bits and pieces of information I had come across before in the game. Those lore diggers had some hypotheses about this mysterious organization/
Some of them thought that the Watchers of Arcane had connections with a forgotten god, one who was said to have dominion over knowledge and information.
And if that were to be true, it could possibly explain how this worked.
"But why am I seeing these now? I've never encountered them in such density before," I asked, my curiosity piqued.
Reina nodded, acknowledging my question. "This base is a central hub, a nexus of information. The psions you saw are concentrated here to ensure seamless operations. It's rare to find such a density of them elsewhere."
"But isn't it dangerous to have such a concentration in one place?" I asked, thinking about the potential vulnerabilities.
"Indeed, it is," Reina admitted. "That's why we have multiple safeguards in place, both magical and technological. The security measures here are among the most advanced in the world. And as for why you're seeing them now, your unique ability allows you to perceive things others can't."
I took a deep breath, processing the information. The implications of this were vast. The sheer power and influence the Watchers of Arcane wielded through this network of psions were staggering.
However, aside from what she had shown and explained, there was one thing that needed to be addressed since she was trying to change the subject.
"But you still haven't answered my question."
I replied, looking at her.
"What did you mean by 'Eye'?"
Reina smiled, a knowing glint in her eye. "Why do you think the organization took note of you and decided to send you to one of the most prestigious academies in the world? What could make you different? How did we determine that? What is your connection to us? Haven't you thought about that before?"
"Of course, I've thought about it before," I said, my gaze steady.
I had been thinking about him for a while already. Even in the game, Astron must have been chosen by the Watchers of Arcane since that was the basic layout for him to be sent to the academy.
That made me think.
Was there something that they knew about Astron that I didn't? Even though he died before he could show himself to them.
That question was hard to answer since, in the game, Astron was just an extra, and I didn't know about the abilities he possessed at all.
As a boss, he was more of a demonic human than a normal hunter. Thus, his abilities as a normal human were unknown.
Therefore, referencing the game was basically impossible. Or at least it was harder compared to the other characters.
But, still, I remembered something.
'In the boss fight between Astron, his input reading was far too strong. Most of the players would have a hard time dealing with him since even if he was not a strong boss, he constantly interrupted the player, dodged the attacks, or blocked them. If not for the player being too strong than him, the fight could turn differently.'
Why was this important, one would say?
The answer lay somewhere else.
All people of this world, whether they belonged to high-ranking families or not, would always have one trait at the start when they awakened.
Yet, for me, it was different. At least, the moment when I somehow merged into one, I had more than one trait.
To explain this, I had always considered [Perceptive Insight] stemmed from my other part of the soul.
But was that possible?
Did I contain two souls in one body, or did I just complete my imperfect soul?
The answer was the latter. Then, why did I have two traits?
Was I special? Was it simply because of that?
Or was there another reason for such a thing happening?
For instance, an external factor?
What if I had initially just had one trait, [Lunar Enigma]?
'Perceptive Insight….What if….'
Yeah, what if there was some outside interference? What if something had affected me and had chosen me?
If that was the case, I could easily say that [Lunar Enigma] was something related to me since I knew that she also had powers of the moon.
Then where did this [Perceptive Insight] come from?
If [Perceptive Insight] came from an outsider's influence, that could also explain why this organization took an interest in me. They could have recognized their own energy.
After all, the Watchers of Arcane are oddly related to observing and interfering with things, just like my [Perceptive Insight] ability.
'That also explains how the game version Astron was able to see through the movements of the players that easily. He must also have his initial traits awakened….Because of the Demonic Energy that filled the missing parts of his soul temporarily.'
Slowly, the pieces were sitting together.
I had initially thought that they took me in because they knew something about [Lunar Enigma], but from the looks of it now, that may not be the case.
'Though, it is better to not be sure.'
I looked at Reina after finding the answer to my questions.
"Your perceptive abilities are not just a coincidence, Astron. They are the reason when you were found, we took an interest in you."
"I see." I nodded my head as she answered just as I had expected. However, I still showed a surprised face just to make her think I didn't speculate about it.
After all, my trait coming from them didn't mean I could trust them. And it is always better to downplay your capabilities a little just to make sure.
"So, does this answer satisfy you?"
"A little. Though I have many questions."
"You need to keep them to yourself. I will not answer any other questions. You will need to get them yourself after increasing your rank."
"….."
This was the usual way things worked in any type of organization, so I did not mind.
"Yet, let me tell you one thing," Reina said as she started walking, her tone carrying a hint of intrigue.
I followed her, curious about what she had to say.
"As you increase your rank and complete missions, you will be able to evolve your eyes more. The evolutions you had previously on your own are just the beginning."
It seemed that being here wouldn't be too bad.
"And also, there is no need to hide your capabilities here."
Chapter 438 - Watchers of Arcane (3)
"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.'
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."
Chapter 439 - Watchers of Arcane (4)
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.
Chapter 440 - Watchers of Arcane (5)
The soft, ambient light of the room slowly increased in intensity, simulating the break of dawn. My eyes flickered open, instantly alert. The room's clock read 4:00 A.M., the perfect time to start my day.
I had always preferred the early hours for training, finding the solitude and silence ideal for focusing my mind and honing my skills.
I swung my legs over the side of the bed and stood, stretching out the stiffness from the night's rest. My muscles responded with a familiar ache, a reminder of the previous day's activities.
After a quick shower, I dressed in my training gear: a simple, dark-colored outfit designed for ease of movement and durability.
It was the outfit that was really similar to the one that the academy gave and was also the reason why I was training here before the
Stepping out into the common area, I noticed the doors to Kael's and Lyra's rooms were still closed.
They were likely still asleep, as most people didn't share my habit of waking before dawn. I moved quietly without giving any sign.
The corridors were empty, and the facility was enveloped in a tranquil stillness.
The soft hum of machinery was the only sound, creating a rhythmic backdrop to my thoughts. I navigated my way to the training area, using the map on my watch to guide me.
Upon arriving, I found the expansive training hall deserted, just as I expected. Various sections were designated for different types of training: combat, strategy, magic, and more. I made my way to the combat section, where a variety of weapons and training dummies awaited.
'Time to get to work.'
I started with a series of stretches and warm-up exercises, loosening my muscles and preparing my body for the intense session ahead. Then, I walked to the combat place.
The machine was pretty much the same.
'It is sad that PhantomGlide Dummy is not here, but that is fine.'
One of the finest enemies that I had faced so far was that dummy, as it basically stat-checked me every time.
Whenever I did something, it did it faster and stronger, and it was always a challenge.
After finishing my warm-up exercises, I walked to the combat simulation room. The sleek, futuristic door slid open with a soft hiss, revealing a spacious area filled with advanced training equipment. The room was lined with various sensors and devices designed to analyze and respond to the user's abilities.
'Time to see what this place has to offer.'
I stepped inside, approaching the central console. A holographic display flickered to life, greeting me with a series of options and instructions. Normally, I would be hesitant to reveal my stats, but given my decision to use this opportunity to its fullest, I decided to let the system analyze me.
The console's voice, smooth and mechanical, echoed in the room. "Please stand still for a full analysis."
I positioned myself on the marked spot, feeling a slight hum as the sensors activated. A series of lights scanned my body, and I could sense the technology working, gathering data on my physical and magical capabilities.
After a few moments, the console beeped, signaling the completion of the scan. "Analysis complete. Strength of the user recorded."
The holographic display now showed a detailed breakdown of my stats, though it didn't specify the exact numbers publicly. It was a thorough evaluation, assessing my physical strength, agility, magical capacity, and combat proficiency.
"Please select your desired difficulty level," the console prompted.
Since I didn't want to overexert myself before the evaluations, I opted for a moderate challenge. "Default difficulty."
Also, I had something to check.
"Default difficulty selected. Generating opponent."
The room shifted as holographic projectors activated, creating a lifelike opponent in the center. The opponent materialized, taking the form of a well-built warrior with a sword.
It was a standard combatant designed to test my skills without pushing me to the limit.
'This should be good enough.'
The opponent moved with fluid grace, its eyes locking onto mine. I readied myself, adopting a combat stance and gripping my sword.
Indeed.
The sword.
I decided to develop my sword a little bit before returning to the academy.
While I was training against Irina, I realized something.
While I had been trying to develop the weapons for my Celestalith and my strengths, I had overlooked one thing.
'My class is limitless. And, to be able to achieve higher strength, it will be crucial for me to know more and more weapons.'
This was important, as my [Lethal Arsenal Ascendancy] combat art's progress had been halted. That was why a different approach was needed, and I decided to test these.
Also, by the end of this break, I need to finish that. The opportunity for that will come soon.
At the end of the day, I need to prove my worth here so that I will not be confined here all the time under the guise of training.
Which is another reason why I will not hold back here.
SWOOSH!
Just as I was thinking about myself, suddenly, the opponent before me moved at a fluid and fast pace.
The sword training had started.
********
A woman walked through the central district, her movements precise and deliberate. The tight bodysuit uniform clung to her form, accentuating her well-trained physique.
Her posture was cold and rigid, a testament to her disciplined nature and the authority she wielded.
Dakota Hellen.
She was the supervisor for the trainees, and today, she was here to oversee the examination location before the tests began.
As she moved, the ambient light of the early morning glinted off the sleek material of her uniform. Her hips swayed subtly with each step, a graceful yet powerful stride that spoke of her confidence and capability.
Her face was set in a stern expression, eyes sharp and vigilant, taking in every detail of her surroundings.
The corridors of the facility were empty, the silence broken only by the soft hum of the machinery.
This was something that she was accustomed to. After all those years of staying on the frontlines, protecting the border, she liked how calm it was.
Dakota appreciated this tranquility, knowing it would soon be replaced by the bustle of trainees preparing for their examinations.
She made her way to the training area, her senses keenly attuned to the environment.
Approaching the training hall, she paused. Her sharp intuition told her something was amiss. Focusing, she sensed a presence within the expansive room. Someone was already there, engaged in a rigorous training session.
'Interesting. Someone is here knowing that an examination would be happening today.'
Curious and slightly perturbed by the early intrusion, Dakota quickened her pace, her steps barely making a sound on the polished floor.
'Who would it be, this cheeky trainee?'
She was amused. Not many bold trainees like these were here.
The doors to the training hall slid open silently at her approach, and she stepped inside. Her eyes quickly scanned the area, zeroing in on the combat section where a lone figure was engaged in a simulated battle.
Dakota hadn't recognized the trainee. The face was unfamiliar. Even though the trainee was moving at a fast pace, she was still able to discern the facial features.
'Purple eyes, delicate nose with slightly revealed bone cheeks. Purple eyes, was there such a trainee?'
She thought, observing the fight.
The stance and the fluidity of his movements were impressive, but it was a bit lacking. From a trained eye like herself, she could easily see what he was lacking.
'A pretty impressive body control…..But, the sword movements are not on the same level.'
This could be observed by how the trainee had evaded the attacks of his opponent. Even though it is a hologram, with the special density of the data here, the enemies could all be mistaken for real people.
They acted as if they were organic, just like how they fought.
'Interesting,' she thought. 'That's the Federal Swordplay.'
The Federal Swordplay was a style used primarily by the military, known for its efficiency and practicality. It was rare to see it practiced outside of military academies and even rarer in a civilian context. This trainee's presence and skill suggested he might be from a Hunter Academy, a place where young, talented fighters were trained for various missions.
'Could he be the new trainee scheduled to arrive this week?' she pondered. Her curiosity piqued, Dakota reached into a pocket on her bodysuit and pulled out a small, sleek tablet. With a few taps, she accessed the file sent to her earlier.
The profile of the new trainee appeared on the screen, and Dakota's eyes narrowed as she compared the face in the file to the one before her.
-----------------------
Name: Astron Natusalune
Academy: Arcadia Hunter Academy
Rank: 1071
Weapons Specialization: Dagger and Bow
Potential: A
----------------------
Dakota's eyes flicked between the trainee in the room and the details on the screen. His movements with the sword were rigid, a clear indication that it wasn't his primary weapon. This discrepancy made sense now. He was skilled with daggers and bows, not swords.
'So, it's him,' she thought, narrowing her eyes. 'He's already training hard before his official examination. That's dedication.'
She watched a few more moments as Astron continued his session, assessing his technique. Despite the rigidity, she could see the potential. His evasion skills were top-notch, likely honed through extensive training with more familiar weapons.
'He's adaptable,' Dakota mused. 'And willing to push himself out of his comfort zone.'
As the simulated opponent lunged at Astron, he parried the blow with a swift, precise movement, then followed up with a counterattack that, while not perfect, showed promise. Dakota decided it was time to introduce herself.
With measured steps, she approached the combat section, her presence commanding attention. The holographic opponent paused mid-strike, responding to her silent command to halt.
Astron turned to face her, his eyes alert and focused. He wiped the sweat from his brow, recognizing the authority in her stance.
"Good morning, trainee," Dakota said, her tone firm but not unkind. "You're up early."
"Good morning, ma'am," Astron replied, slightly out of breath. But then, his eyes seized her body at a quick speed.
'Quick eyes. Not bad.'
If not for her perceptiveness that she had honed after receiving such gazes countless times, she would have missed it.
'And it was not off of a desire but to check my identity.'
She could also see if a gaze contained carnal desire or not, as this was one of the goals of the suit. There was no need to hide it, as she liked getting such gazes.
It made her feel like a woman, but that is not the main topic right now.
"Astron Natusalune, correct?" Dakota asked, her eyes steady on him.
He nodded, "Yes, ma'am."
Dakota sized him up from top to bottom, taking in his stance, his build, and the determined look in his eyes. "You're the one Reina recommended, huh?"
Astron nodded again, "Yes, ma'am."
"You've got potential," she acknowledged. "But your main weapons seem to be daggers and bows. Why were you using a sword there?"
"My main weapons are indeed daggers and bows," Astron confirmed. "But the reason I was using a sword is because of my class."
"Your class?" Dakota asked, her interest piqued.
"It's because I am a [Weapon Master]," Astron explained.
Dakota's eyes widened slightly, but she quickly controlled her expression. Inwardly, she thought, 'This kid... is really interesting.'
She found a prospect she was interested in in a while…