Chapter 12: Aimless

Chapter 12: Chapter 12: Aimless

"That marks the end of the first test, and those who fell unconscious are henceforth eliminated from the entrance exam. The medics will provide you with three vials of rejuvenation potions," the principal announced before turning his attention to the remaining candidates.

He was especially focused on the boy with dark black hair and piercing blue eyes, who seemed to be in peak condition even after enduring all that pressure, while the others were barely standing.

[Soul Power Stat Increased: +1]

[Soul Power Stat Increased: +1]

[Soul Power Stat Increased: +1]

[Perception Stat Increased: +1]

[Perception Stat Increased: +1]

[Congratulations on completing the first test of the Hero Academy entrance exam. You deserve a reward.]

[Reward: Eye of Truth]

[Innate Ability: Eyes of Truth (Active)]

[Effects: Grants ability to see others' Status windows, Energy lines, Energy Signatures, increases Visual Comprehension, Increased Perception: +3]

"Another reward? Can you at least tell me what I did that others didn't to deserve these special rewards?" Sam wondered silently.

Of course, he never received an answer. He wasn't even sure if he should use these rewards.

He felt like he was cheating, and at the same time, he was suspicious of the whole system being too generous to him.

There was also this feeling that the rewards he was getting from the system were rightfully his.

These were complicated and contradictory emotions.

"The final test is simple. We are currently standing at the borders of the Luminous Forest. A few kilometers in is the Forbidden Forest. That's where your final test will take place," the principal said, pointing in a specific direction.

Upon hearing him, the awakeners' expressions instantly changed to one of disbelief, with some even showing fear.

"You will be given bracelets imbued with magic. These will send us a signal if you encounter beasts too dangerous to handle or if you are killed so we can collect your bodies. You can also use them to send a distress call if you feel you need to be saved. However, if you are saved, you will be disqualified."

"Don't you think this exam is a little too harsh?" Jin asked, looking at Agor.

"Usually, the beast hunt is conducted in a secure and controlled part of the Luminous Forest. It has been a long time since the Forbidden Forest was freely used for the entrance exam."

"You should thank your grandson for that," the Hero King replied.

"He is the one who conjured a phenomenon that, in my opinion, transcends even the transcendent level. This is the best opportunity for the academy to assess your grandson's talent."

"Well, your daughter doesn't fall behind either, does she?" Jin asked, smiling slightly.

"I love my daughter, but the fact is she didn't conjure a transcendent phenomenon."

"Are you disappointed?"

"No, not really. It's just that neither of us expected someone like your grandson to appear, even though I kind of foresaw something like this happening," the Hero King sighed.

"I hope it's alright that I asked your grandson to look after my daughter, Uncle."

"Don't worry about it, Rowan. He needs a hobby anyway," Jin replied, lost in thought.

"What's wrong?" the Hero King asked, noticing the strange expression on Jin's face.

"It's my grandson. He is so... aimless. All he ever does is train, train, and train. He says he trains because he likes getting stronger, that he loves the feeling that comes with it," Jin said slowly.

As far as Jin could remember, Sam had always been quiet and reserved.

He was highly talented in both magic and martial arts, but he never took an interest in anything else, and this always concerned his family.

"My daughter is the same. All she does is train. In fact, it's become more intense after witnessing your grandson's display of talent. She says she wants to be the strongest hero ever."

"At least she has a clear goal, right?"

"I guess so."