Chapter 80: A Promise for a Duel
The dawn brought a new freshness to the light, as if the world had been upgraded to a higher definition.
Nero woke early, as usual, and set out for a jog through the forest, covering three kilometers. Afterward, he engaged in some light exercises, including stretches and bodyweight movements like push-ups and squats, utilizing the natural terrain around him for balance and stability. He finished his routine with a brief session of breathing exercises, refining prana into his second core for just a few minutes, allowing the energy to flow and strengthen his abilities.
On his way back, he took a moment to check his smart bracelet. Upon seeing the second team closely trailing behind them with only a few points separating their scores, a frown creased his brow.
"Guess we must accelerate things! I can feel the pressure. It won’t be easy at this rate, but it will be fun nonetheless."
He paused to examine the bracelet, which displayed the rankings of the top three teams. It was clear that the team chasing after them was undoubtedly the princess’s—a realization that weighed on him. While other teams were capable, he knew Elreth’s relentless personality would push her to claim first place at all costs, especially with her rival Khione in his team. Losing to Khione was not an option for her, and he could already sense her determination to go all out to retake the lead. This prospect both excited and pressured Nero, but he welcomed the challenge with open arms. The thought of messing with the princess fueled his enthusiasm.
Nero shook his head to refocus his thoughts.
Upon reaching the area where the tents were set up, he spotted Khione sitting in meditation, an overwhelming amount of white prana swirling around her. The ground beneath her was frozen, emanating a chilling energy.
"Wow! She is stepping into the next stage," he realized, instantly understanding what was happening. Khione was on the brink of advancing from the Apprentice stage to the Adept stage.
He waited calmly for her to complete her transformation. It didn’t take long; soon, she finished her meditation and rose to her feet, her aura refined and concealed. The ground within a twenty-meter radius had been frozen, but she effortlessly controlled the icy terrain, returning it to normal as if it had never been altered.
Looking at Nero, Khione was about to say something, but he beat her to it.
"Congratulations on reaching the next stage," he wholeheartedly congratulated her. She must be the first to achieve this milestone so quickly; the new school year had just begun, and here she was, already advancing to the second stage. Indeed, a genius. Most of the cadets from the special class were still striving to reach their next stages, whether as Knights or Mages, but that was easier said than done.