A New era

The atmosphere in the Black Squire training sessions had grown tense. Kyle had been avoiding Ray ever since the incident, and Monk and Gary still hadn't exchanged a single word since that day.

However, the shift had an unexpected effect—everyone was now far more focused. The friendly banter that once filled their sessions had vanished. No more casual conversations after their special training; instead, they attended Sir K's lessons in silence and returned to their dorms without lingering.

Gary maintained his top ranking, but after witnessing firsthand the benefits of Black Knight training, he had begun putting even more effort into his sessions. He even incorporated the techniques into his ranking matches, finishing most of his opponents in just a few strikes, no longer toying with them.

Ray himself had learned a lesson that day. He had spent too much time among humans, allowing his heart to grow softer over the years. That single event had served as a stark reminder of what humans were truly like, refocusing him on his original goal.

After their basic and special training sessions ended, Wilfred came to greet the four of them inside the mansion.

"It's good to see you all again," Wilfred said. "Unfortunately, I don't have much time for small talk today. I'm here on behalf of the grand elders. Kyle, Ray, would you both follow me?"

"Don't you need us as well?" Gary asked.

"I'm afraid this matter only concerns them for now."

Ray and Kyle followed Wilfred through the academy grounds until they reached one of the highest rooms in the central tower. The chamber was adorned with paintings and monuments dedicated to the Dragon Knights. At the heart of the room stood a large meeting table, and at its far end stood four master knights: Delbert, Bernardo, Sir K, and Miss Rose, the head of the Green Knights.

"Please, take a seat, you two," Wilfred gestured toward the chairs at the table.

Ray sat beside Kyle, waiting patiently. A few moments later, the door opened again, admitting three more students. One of them was Ian, while the other two were identical twins, impossible to tell apart.

As Ray glanced around the room, he quickly noticed the common feature they all shared—red hair. The reason for their gathering became clear. They had all been brought here for a specific purpose.

Wilfred took his place at the head of the table, his expression serious, a sign that this was an important matter.

"I won't waste time with minor details," Wilfred began. "The five of you have been brought here because of a prophecy foretold fifteen years ago. According to the divine being, our land will be saved by a child with red hair."

The others exchanged surprised glances. Ray already had some knowledge of this from long ago, but he was surprised that the elders had chosen to inform them now. However, he dismissed the idea quickly. He believed they had made a mistake, for his original hair color had been black. Even now, some strands of black remained.

Wilfred continued, "In search of the child from the prophecy, we sent knights across the land. They discovered ten children, all of the same age."

Ray frowned. Ten children? As far as he knew, there were only five, including himself. Even now, only five of them sat at the table.

"I see your confusion," Wilfred said. "The five of you possess no magical abilities, while the other five do. They are currently stationed at Roland Academy."

"So one of us is going to save the world," Kyle said, his voice brimming with excitement.

Ray noticed a shift in Delbert and Rose's expressions. A flicker of something—anger? Frustration? It was clear Wilfred was withholding part of the prophecy.

Behind Wilfred, a magical illusion formed, depicting the five legendary Dragon Knights.

"This is why I have called you here today. We wish to recreate the legacy of our founders. Just as the Dragon Knights of old saved the land from the Shadow Plague, now this task will fall to you."

Kyle shot out of his seat, unable to contain his excitement. "You mean—"

"That is correct," Wilfred confirmed. "You five will be the new Dragon Knights of Avrion Academy. However, this means your training will intensify. On top of your basic and special sessions, you will undergo additional training as Dragon Knights."

The others were thrilled at the honor bestowed upon them. Ray, too, played along. This opportunity would allow him to gather more information about the Dragon Knights and their abilities.

Wilfred outlined their new training schedule, explaining where and when they would meet. As they all began to leave the room, Wilfred called out to Ray.

"Ray, wait here."

Ray halted as Wilfred stepped back inside, speaking once more. "There's someone here to see you."

Behind Wilfred stood a woman Ray recognized instantly. She was as holy-looking as ever—the first person who had ever held him in her arms. His mother.

Tears streamed down her face, but Ray sensed they were not tears of joy.

"What's wrong?" he asked.

His mother slowly lifted her head, her voice barely above a whisper.

"It's your father."