Chapter 210: The Path of a Knight
(Samuel's POV)
The Knight Academy stood tall before us, a grand fortress of stone and steel, its banners fluttering against the wind.
The entrance gates were massive, guarded by two imposing knights in gleaming armor. Their gazes were sharp, watching every passerby with scrutiny.
Leo, walking beside me, kept fidgeting with his ragged sleeves. "Are... are you sure they'll take me in?" His voice wavered with uncertainty.
I smirked and patted his head. "Trust me, kid. They'd be fools not to. You've got potential."
One of the guards at the gate stepped forward, his eyes narrowing as he examined Leo. "What business do you have here, stranger?"
I placed a hand on Leo's shoulder and said, "This boy, Leo, wishes to join the Knight Academy. He's got no family, no home... but he's got the heart of a fighter."
The second guard scoffed. "A street rat? We don't take thieves here."
Leo tensed, clenching his fists. I sighed. "Damn, these guys are really by-the-book."
I folded my arms. "Listen, if you don't take him in, where do you think he'll end up? Back on the streets? Maybe in the dungeons? Or worse, joining some gang? That's not what you knights stand for, right?"
The first guard frowned. "The Academy only accepts those who show promise, those who prove they are worthy of training."