Chapter 9: Sudden Meeting

Chapter 9: Sudden Meeting

Sevi took a deep breath, gathering his resolve. He knocked on the heavy wooden door, the sound echoing slightly in the quiet hallway.

"Enter," came his father's deep, commanding voice from within.

Sevi opened the door and stepped into the study, the rich scent of polished wood and old books filling the air.

The room was as he remembered from the old Sevi's memories: dark, despite the early morning light filtering through the small, high windows. The heavy curtains were drawn, casting a somber shadow over the room.

A large desk dominated the center of the room, its surface covered with stacks of papers and a few open books.

Behind the desk sat Duke Sawyer Bladesworth, his imposing figure illuminated only by the warm glow of a desk lamp.

Despite his relatively young age, he bore the marks of a seasoned warrior. Scars traced his rugged face, and an eye patch covered one of his eyes, lending him an air of grim authority.

His remaining eye, sharp and perceptive, locked onto Sevi with a piercing intensity.

Sevi's heart raced as he met his father's gaze.

'He looks much more intense than I thought,' Sevi thought, feeling a surge of nerves.

Duke Sawyer leaned back in his chair, breaking the silence with a thoughtful nod.

"Sevi," he began, his voice rich with authority.

"I've returned from my travels and witnessed your sparring match with Sir Cedric."

Sevi's eyes widened in surprise. He hadn't expected his father to have seen the fight.

Duke Sawyer continued, his gaze fixed on Sevi.

"I must say, I was quite astonished by your performance. When I left, you had been somewhat lackadaisical in your training. I even recall that you had quit training altogether."

Duke Sawyer's expression shifted to one of serious consideration. "I believe you are ready for a new challenge. I want you to enroll in the Celestial Academy."

Sevi's eyes widened in surprise. "The Celestial Academy?" he echoed, trying to process the gravity of the situation.

He had heard whispers of such an institution but knew little about it. Even in his old life, he wasn't able to play the game so he didn't know the existence of such academy.

Duke Sawyer's gaze remained steady. "Yes, the Celestial Academy. It is one of the most prestigious institutions in the realm, renowned for its exceptional training and education."

Duke Sawyer's gaze sharpened. "This is not a request, it is an order. You are to enroll as a transferee to the Celestial Academy. I expect you to pack your things and be ready to leave by tomorrow."

'...That's too soon.'

Sevi felt a pang of sadness at the thought of leaving his mom, knight friends, and mentors behind. He had grown accustomed to his life here.

Despite his mixed feelings, Sevi straightened his posture and nodded. "Understood, Father. I will prepare myself."

Duke Sawyer gave a curt nod. "Good. You may leave now and begin your preparations."

With a final nod of acknowledgment, Sevi turned and exited the study.

'The Celestial Academy...' Sevi mused as he made his way down the hallway.

'I've only heard bits and pieces about it.'

He reached his room and sat down at his desk.

"Hey System." Sevi continued, "I need more information about the Celestial Academy, the Duke mentioned it's one of the most prestigious institutions, but I want to know what I'm really getting into."

[Certainly, Sevi. The Celestial Academy is one of the most renowned institutions in the realm, known for its rigorous training and elite education.]

[The Academy is famous for its comprehensive programs in swordsmanship, magic, bow, and more. It attracts the brightest minds and most skilled individuals from across the realm.]

Sevi listened intently, absorbing the information.

[Additionally, the Academy is also filled of influential families and ambitious students. You may encounter some notable individuals there, including potential allies and significant figures.]

[Keep an eye out, as the Academy is also a place where you might meet some of the heroines you need to capture!!]

Sevi paused, the mention of "heroines" sparking a memory.

'Heroines? Ahh... That's right, this is a dating game, isn't it?' Sevi thought, feeling a twinge of frustration.

'I almost forgot about that after spending the last two months training with the sir Garef and the knights.'

'I should keep an eye out for the targets at the Academy.'

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