Hunter Academy: Revenge of the Weakest

Chapter 446 102.1 - Examination

You did well, Trainee Astron. How about becoming my disciple?"

Her eyes held a mix of curiosity and determination as she waited for my response. Despite my exhaustion, it seemed I had achieved what I essentially wanted. Dakota was someone with immense experience and skill; a chance to learn from her was going to be invaluable.

I nodded despite the pain coursing through my body. My arms felt like lead, and I could taste blood in my mouth, but I pushed through it.

Dakota's expression softened slightly, tossing me a potion. It seemed something about me had resonated with her this time. "Drink this." n/ô/vel/b//jn dot c//om

I caught the potion and downed it quickly, feeling the healing properties work almost immediately.

"Rest up, Disciple," she said, checking her smartwatch. "It is now 7 A.M. You will have your examination at 9. Get something to eat and refresh yourself. You will need to put on a good show there if you don't want to embarrass Reina and me."

It was normally scheduled to happen at 8 A.M, but it seemed she wanted to give me some time. And that was a good thing as I was really tired, not only physically but also mentally. I never thought using weapons that I was not familiar with would take such a toll on my body.

"Understood," I replied.

Dakota raised an eyebrow, her lips curling into a playful smirk. "That's not quite right, you know."

I paused, confused. "What do you mean?" I also was not expecting to see a smile out of nowhere, as she always struck me more as a serious type.

She crossed her arms and tilted her head slightly. "You're missing something."

I blinked, trying to piece it together. I really did not get what she meant.

"…..Are you that clueless, or are you doing this on purpose…..Disciple?"

Until hearing this, as she pressed on the word 'disciple,' I realized what she meant with them.

'So she has such a quirk. Noted.'

I thought in my head, playing along. It looks like people here all have cultivated some weird habits. Kinda understandable, as exceptional people tend to be like that, myself included.  "Ah... I understand... Master."

Dakota's smirk widened. "There it is. Much better."

"Yes, Master," I said, somehow feeling a bit amused despite my exhaustion.

"Good. You may leave," she said with a satisfied nod.

As I turned to leave, I felt satisfied.

My first goal of coming here had already been achieved.

'Getting someone competent to teach me at least one special weapon.'

The academy taught everyone how to use [Federal Swordplay], not because everyone used the sword but because everyone needed to learn how to fight against someone like that.

After all, not every Hunter or Awakened would be fighting monsters. Naturally, they would be teaching other weapons as well, but if you don't have the necessary occupation, you would not be admitted as a trainee under an instructor for guidance since the manpower is already important.

Thus, I would eventually need to reveal my [Weapon Master] class, but it is better to hide it for the time being as I still don't have the proper excuse to give as to how my occupation changed from a [Daggerist] to a [Weapon Master].

However, I am planning to get it during this break period, and then I can consider revealing it when the time comes.

The second goal was to improve my own body and parameters. Recently, my progress had already been slowed down, and I needed to get stronger faster than ever. For this, many resources are necessary, and I need to prove that I am talented and have enough potential to invest.

The third one was a bit different.

'I need to find where that thing is.'

For the sake of completing the thing that I had been theorizing about, I have found out that I would need a special element. A key that was a singularity in this world, and that thing can not be found easily, as even with the game's knowledge, it is supposed to appear only a year later, and I don't want to wait that long.

'So, I can only use the resources in this place.' Since this place is the net source of many different information and the location where the webs are merged, that could be possible.

And my last goal had recently appeared.

'Improving my eyes. Whatever, maybe the reason why I was able to get [Keen Eye] and [Eyes of Hourglass] might have been for a different reason. And if that is the case, then they also hold the key for another improvement.'

Now, I had three clear paths ahead of me, and having a clear path meant one thing.

The speed of my improvement would increase with a clear goal.

As I left the training grounds, my mind was already planning the next steps with clear goals in mind. My body was still recovering, but the potion had worked wonders, and I was ready to refuel with a good meal.

On the way to the cafeteria, I spotted Lyra and Kael waiting for me. Lyra's face lit up with a happy smile, and she waved her small hands energetically.

"Good morning, Astron!" she called out cheerfully.

"Good morning," I replied, returning her wave with a nod.

Kael stepped forward, his expression curious. "Did you go to the training grounds already?"

I nodded. "Yes, I did."

Kael raised an eyebrow, impressed. "That's a bold move to train before your examination."

"I wanted to familiarize myself with the environment and the clothes I'm wearing," I explained. "Getting comfortable in the new setting helps me focus better."

Lyra clapped her hands together. "That's smart! I'm sure you'll do great in the examination."

Kael nodded in agreement. "Preparation is key. It's good to see you're taking it seriously."

We continued walking towards the cafeteria, the morning light casting long shadows across the corridors. The facility was slowly coming to life as other trainees began their routines.

As we entered the cafeteria, the aroma of freshly prepared food filled the air. The space was vast, with various stations offering a wide range of dishes. The sleek, modern design of the cafeteria matched the rest of the facility, emphasizing efficiency and functionality.

Lyra bounced ahead, her excitement palpable. "Let's grab some breakfast! You need to eat well before your examination."

'I was already planning on doing that….'

I rolled my eyes inwardly but did not say much.

We approached the serving area, and I quickly scanned the options available. The cafeteria offered a diverse selection of foods, but I was particularly interested in the special monster meats I had found after scanning the menu yesterday. They were known to enhance specific physical attributes, which I needed to focus on improving. In the game, it would be a small buff; in the real world, things were much more important. Even little details like these would accumulate a lot.

And I already selected what I would be ordering.

Reddish Hydra Serpent Steak: A special type of monster that is not that popular in the world right now. Since its meat smells a lot, it is not preferred by gourmets or by the general public.

However, there is a catch with this one. The monster's muscles are known for having strong muscle fibers, and normally, eating that meat would be expected to make the eater's fibers resilient and flexible as well.

But it doesn't do that.

Why? The answer would be revealed three years later in the timeline.

The meat of the Hydra Serpent contains special types of muscle fibers that have mutated along a different path, resulting in unique, complex proteins. These proteins can significantly enhance muscle resilience and flexibility, but human bodies cannot directly digest them. The reason? Our digestive systems lack the specific enzymes required to break down these complex proteins.

However, if paired with Ironhide Boar meat, the solution presents itself. The Ironhide Boar is renowned for its dense protein content, promoting muscle density and overall strength. More importantly, the enzymes present in Ironhide Boar meat can help break down the complex proteins in Hydra Serpent meat, allowing the body to absorb and utilize the beneficial properties.

Then why had I not used this combination in the academy?

It was because the academy did not have these two, and even after looking in the Mananet, I was not able to find any provider for this at all.

But, here, that was not the case.

'How nice….'

I selected my combination, ensuring I would get the most out of my meal:

Reddish Hydra Serpent SteakIronhide Boar Roast

I added some leafy greens and a mix of grains to balance the meal, ensuring I got the necessary vitamins and minerals as well.

Lyra watched with curious eyes as I made my selections. "You're...Really, really particular about your food, aren't you?"

"I am."

"You must really have a specific stomach."

I shrugged. "It's not about the stomach. It's about getting the most out of what I eat. Certain combinations can make a big difference in training and recovery."

Lyra giggled. "Well, to each their own. But I've never seen anyone choose Hydra Serpent Steak and Ironhide Boar Roast together. You have a weird taste."

'Not like I want to eat this disgusting food….'

But of course, I did not say it and instead opted to use my classic move.

"It is always better to train your stomach for the sake of being prepared for any situation," I said, taking a bite of the Hydra Serpent Steak. "In emergency situations, you won't always have the luxury of choosing what to eat. It's important to be able to consume whatever is available without hesitation."

Kael nodded thoughtfully. "That's a good point. Being adaptable in all aspects, including diet, is crucial."

Lyra wrinkled her nose. "I suppose that makes sense, but I still think it's weird."

"It might be weird, but it's practical."

As we continued our meal, I focused on the unique flavors and textures, reminding myself of the benefits each component provided. The conversation shifted to more casual topics, and I found myself enjoying the camaraderie.

After we finished eating, it was time for me to head to the examination area. Lyra and Kael walked with me, their expressions supportive and encouraging.

"Good luck with your examination, Astron!" Lyra said, giving me a thumbs-up.

"Indeed, you probably got this."

Somehow, I found these two weirdly warm. Somehow, these two did not feel that repulsive to be around.

"I should not disappoint then."

"Indeed."

As we parted ways, I headed back to my quarters to make any final preparations and then walked to the examination side.

As I arrived at the examination site, I saw that Dakota was already there, along with many different trainees. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation, and everyone seemed focused and serious.

Dakota stood at the front, her posture rigid and authoritative. She acted as though she didn't know me, maintaining a completely professional demeanor. This was, after all, an official examination.