Frog In A Well

Sidius' gaze lingered over the arrayed items. The items were mostly composed of several mana crystals and energy crystals with some spirit grass. He did not take out the massive butchered body of the fiery ape.

The mana crystals shimmered with an ethereal lavender hue that exuded a gentle aura.

Beside them, the energy crystals emitted a radiant golden glow that bathed the room in a warm and inviting light.

The spirit grass, almost transparent, was giving a sky blue glow.

These three objects contained different types of power known in this planet.

"Hmm… I left five of each mana crystal and energy crystal at the mission hall, alongside all the of lava stones and fiery roots I have, tallying up to 121 points."

"Adding my initial 50 points and the 200 points I won from the duel, I now have a satisfying 371 points," he exclaimed in joy. "With this, I can surely able to exchange a decent offensive mystical art."

'The matter concerning my items should be resolved by now. It's unfortunate that the academy gates close at 7pm and I don't currently have a dorm.'

Then, a sudden realization struck him like a whisper of memory.

"Ah, I forgot the headmaster had summoned me to her office," he muttered, but he brushed that concern aside for tomorrow.

"Forget it. Tonight, I will absorb these mana crystals and energy crystals to forge my strength," he added with a smile, a fiery resolve burning in his eyes.

—

–

-

As the sunlight gently filtered through the curtains, Sidius woke up feeling the renewed vitality coursing through his veins.

He noticed a subtle but noticeable difference in his mana and aura. Although he hadn't broken through, he sensed he was halfway through there.

Letting out a yawn, he stretched his limbs and enjoyed the warmth that filled his body. He rolled out his bed feeling stronger than before.

As he did his usual morning exercises, he noticed his mind was unusually clear and focused. A smile formed at the corner of his lips and he paused what he was doing, observing further the little changes within himself.

"My thoughts are surprisingly clearer today. Could it be the spirit grass?" he wondered in a puzzled expression.

"So it nourishes the mind and not the soul, huh?"

Shaking off his head at his discovery, he took a refreshing bath. The water droplets splashed against the tiles seemed to sound more distinct in his ear.

Additionally, something else struck him: his vision seemed to stretch farther than usual, capturing more details than he remembered.

The water droplets were more visible and slower than before!

What a discovery!

'Spirit grass… I need to find more of it!'

He concluded, realizing the true benefits of the precious herb.

After getting into his academy uniform, Sidius hopped onto a train heading for Edrodorth Academy.

He heard the vehicle stopped and walked out of the train. A deep breath escaped his lips as he gazed at the grand entrance gate of the academy.

Today, his destination was the headmaster's office. He had prepared himself for what lay ahead; he was certain the headmaster would subject him to a talent-measuring orb, and it would reveal his true growth talent.

Upon entering the academy grounds, whispers rustled through the air caused by events that transpired previously. Sidius could feel the curious glances that followed him but he chose to ignored it.

Even though the news had been suppressed, those who witnessed the honorary duel between Sidius and Vince spread it like wildfire.

The news shook the institute and a wave of disbelief had swept through.

Sidius, once deemed as the academy's least promising student, had managed to defeat a chosen individual two realms higher than his own, a worthy achievement that placed him onto the stage of prodigies.

Sidius paid no mind to the student's chatter and simply carried on walking. He was already accustomed to such attention. Whether he drew notice or not, it mattered little to him as long as his peace is not disturbed.

Surprisingly, no one approached him or attempted to question him, completely opposite to the mocking gazes he recieved back in his second class, where he had become a laughingstock.

At last, Sidius finally reached the building where the headmaster's office was located.

The grand structure soared into the sky that resonated with a majestic aura of mythical creatures.

Atop was a peacefully lying Amphiptere, crowning its pinnacle. Its vibrant bat-like wings that covered most of the rooftop, and its pearl-like serpentine body that delicately coiled around the building's conical roof, protected the building like a guard from ancient legends.

The headmaster's contracted spirit beast resided there, and Sidius couldn't help but be captivated by its beauty.

He stared at it with his shining eyes.

'If it looks this stunning just resting, then how breathtaking it would be in a real fight?' he mused inwardly. He was mesmerized by the beauty of the spirit beast.

'When will I ever have a companion like this?'

However, he quickly shook off the thought. Daydreaming was good, but he had to stay realistic and practical. Action mattered more than wishful thinking.

Sidius glanced at the entrance and noticed an old figure standing guard, wearing a white martial robe and a wooden hat. He resembled an old taoist and a beggar at the same time.

'A janitor? No, he could be a hidden powerhouse like in those novels!'

'I thought they were stupid to not put a guard even in such grandeur, but to think it was an old taoist.'

Sidius curiosity was piqued as he activated his skill 'Inspect' and was shocked to discover that the person held an E rank, the same as rank as him.

'Huh?'

He had assumed the old man was a powerful Chosen because he did not sense the powerful aura coming from him.

Just like those old taoist in the legends.

Seeing there was no trait and title in his basic stats, Sidius narrowed his eyes and a musing smile curled in his lips.

'That old man… is really a janitor?!'

Approaching the individual, Sidius found himself taken aback as the old man did not notice him, continuing to read a manual.

"Hello," Sidius interrupted.

"Oh my, how disrespectful of me. I'm sorry for not noticing you, young man. Can I know your name and your intention for being here?"

"I'm Sidius, and I'm here because of the Headmaster's call."

"You're Sidius?! Oh my, the Headmaster is waiting for you. Go directly to the eleventh floor," the old man directed, feeling embarrassed.

Seeing the old man's act, the suspicion of Sidius on the old man increased as he observed further.

'Is he really a janitor?!'