Instructor Elda called the group to gather once more as she began her address.
She stood on the observation platform, her stern gaze sweeping over the recruits.
"Well done, all of you," she said. "You have all shown courage and skill today as expected of future Adventurers."
Neron leaned back against the wall, his arms crossed over his chest as he listened to her halfheartedly.
He couldn't shake the thought that had been nagging at him since he exited the dungeon.
"I could have done more," he muttered under his breath, eyes narrowing as he replayed the scenes in his mind.
He had chosen to rely solely on his swordsmanship, intentionally avoiding the use of magic.
While he had done well enough in the exams, he knew that he might get flaked for it since he didn't use magic.
While Martial arts was efficient in its own right, it didn't command the same respect as magic in the world.
"...I am pleased to announce that two of you have earned a Three Star License."
Neron's ears perked up as soon as he heard Elda's last words and he wasn't the only one.
A wave of anticipation spread across everyone gathered.
A Three Star License was rarely given to new candidates as it was only granted to those that did exceptionally well after a unanimous vote by the examiners.
Wherever it was presented, the bearer was sure to get VIP treatment and advance quickly in the ranks of the Guild community.
Elda paused in her speech as her eyes locked onto Neron.
"Nero, you scored the highest with 90 points. Your performance was exceptional. Your swordsmanship is truly remarkable."
There was a smattering of applause from the examiners and less from the other candidates.
They had diverse reactions ranging from disbelief to envy. They weren't sure they heard Elda correctly.
Aldred's words echoed in his mind, and for the first time, Neron found himself questioning his usual solitary approach.
Legris had been persistent, and there was no denying the boy had talent, even if he was overly optimistic. Perhaps it wouldn't hurt to be a little more open—if only just a bit.
Neron straightened up, uncrossing his arms. "You did well too," he said, his voice less cold than before. "You seem to know how to handle yourself in a fight."
Legris blinked in surprise at the compliment, a wide grin spreading across his face. "Thanks! I, uh, try my best. Maybe we could spar together sometime? Learn from each other?"
Neron almost declined, but instead, he found himself nodding slightly. "Maybe. We'll see."
It wasn't exactly a warm acceptance, but it was far from the outright rejection he had been ready to deliver.
Legris seemed satisfied with that and nodded enthusiastically.
The boy glanced at the notice board where the results were being posted. "By the way, I have a question if you don't mind."
Neron could guess what he wanted to ask but wanted to give him the benefit of the doubt.
"Ask away."
"So why didn't you use magic back there? If you're this impressive with a sword, I'm curious to see your..."
"You can ask anything other than that" Neron said, cutting him off before he was done.
"Alright, it's your choice then. I won't force you to say anything you don't want to say."
Neron was tempted to ask if if he could even if he wanted to force him but he decided against it.
It wasn't in him to be blatantly rude without a justifiable cause. The boy was just making conversation after all.
"Alright Nero, it was nice meeting you. I guess I will see you around."
Neron simply nodded, his mind already shifting to the next challenge as he shook Legris hand.
As he watched him walk away, he couldn't help but feel a grudging respect for the boy he had ignored.