The Second Exam and the Shadows in the Capital

As the second exam progressed, it became almost identical to the first—except for one crucial difference: the absence of the looming threat of death.

Without the fear of dying, some students approached the test more casually, but enthusiasm remained high. After all, Instructor Oliver had promised that top-performing students would be eligible to become knights under the Viscount.

The day passed in grueling trials, leaving everyone exhausted. However, the results were not drastically different from the previous exam.

The first test remained the same—a rigorous physical evaluation that drained every ounce of energy from the students. This time, however, they performed better. Having experienced the first exam, many had strategized their approach, resulting in noticeable improvements. Whether due to increased physical strength or better preparation, the progress was evident.

The second test was the academic portion, which taxed the students' minds. Unlike last time, when many were clueless and struggling, the students now displayed a much better understanding of the material. Even Instructor Rus seemed pleased with their progress.

The third test, the survival challenge, was met with caution. Students were wary of one another, yet with instructors stationed throughout the forest, the risk of being killed by a peer was minimal. Instead, their primary concerns were wild animals, poisonous plants, and the other dangers lurking in the forest.

The final test was the sparring examination. Unlike before, there was no dramatic opening match between Ryan and Bill, nor any standout conflicts. Instead, the students demonstrated their growing proficiency with swords, daggers, and quick-thinking tactics—evidence of their progress in combat trainings.

--

The Capital of Uruk

While the exams continued at the camp, an important meeting was taking place in Kingscity, the capital of Uruk.

As the heart of the kingdom, Kingscity was three times the size of Pearl City. Despite this, Pearl City remained significant due to its strategic position as a major port, offering crucial advantages in the Age of Navigation. It was one of the most developed cities in the country.

Kingscity's inner districts were meticulously planned, featuring grand administrative buildings, wide roads capable of accommodating four-horse carriages, and streets illuminated by elegant lamp posts.

At the center of the city stood a grand palace, a towering symbol of power. Beyond it lay magnificent holy churches and the residences of high-ranking officials, nobles, and influential capitalists. This inner district was home to the elite—the individuals who shaped the kingdom's future, influencing laws and policies alongside the king himself.

Beyond the inner city lay the outer districts, where the common people resided. Though crowded due to the dense population, the streets bustled with markets and thriving businesses, showcasing the city's rapid progress.

On the outskirts, the slums sprawled outward, separated by imposing walls. The poorest citizens struggled to survive in these districts, overshadowed by towering factory buildings that polluted the air. Yet, despite the poor conditions, the undeniable expansion and industrialization of Kingscity continued at an unstoppable pace.

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A Secret Mission

Inside the grand palace, in a lavish study adorned with rich furnishings, sat a tall, dignified man. His sharp features, regal aura, and piercing white complexion made his identity unmistakable—this was Prince Daniel, the Third Prince of the Kingdom.

Beside him stood a butler or assistant, and before him stood a tall, battle-hardened man with scars visible along his arms. This man was Paul, one of the kingdom's most capable inspectors and a Rank 3 Knight.

Their discussion revolved around an urgent matter—the upcoming inspection of Pearl City.

Prince Daniel's voice was calm yet firm as he spoke.

"As you may already know, you have been assigned to inspect Pearl City. There have been troubling reports—dangerous individual,missing children, tax fraud, and other concerning incidents."

His eyes sharpened as he continued.

"This mission is dangerous. Viscount Reynolds, the ruler of Pearl City, will not welcome your presence. According to him, everything in the city is running smoothly, and an inspection is unnecessary."

The prince leaned forward, his tone darkening.

"More importantly, the Viscount is a loyal supporter of my elder brother, the First Prince. He and his men will view this as an attack from me—an intrusion into their domain. I apologize for dragging you into this political struggle, but the reports coming from Pearl City suggest that something is deeply wrong. I need you to uncover the truth."

He met Paul's gaze.

"Do not rely on the local authorities. Most of them are the Viscount's men. This mission could cost you your life—so be careful."

Paul nodded, his expression unwavering.

"No need to apologize, Your Highness. This is my duty. I will be cautious—I have no intention of losing my life."

Prince Daniel handed him a folder filled with documents.

"These are the case files. Here is a list of people you can contact for assistance. Some are loyal to the kingdom, some are enemies of the Viscount, and others simply wish to curry favor with me. They may provide aid, but trust no one completely."

A brief pause followed before the prince added, "I wish you success."

With a simple nod, Paul accepted the mission and left the room.

-----

Back at the camp, the second exam concluded with little change in the rankings.

The instructors were pleased with the students' progress, and a sense of relief spread through the camp as the students finally had a moment to relax after the grueling test.

As expected, Ryan once again placed himself safely in the middle of the group.

However, deep down, he had a feeling.

If things continued at this pace—**if he kept improving like this—**then by the next exam, he might become the strongest student in the class.

But Ryan knew this was no time to relax. The training camp wasn't over, and his life was still not his own. He could only afford to breathe freely once he left this place.

His Limitless Star ability was already more than halfway filled. If his calculations were right, he would fully complete it in four months.

And when that happened—he would have the chance to travel to a new world.

Perhaps there, he would gain an ability strong enough to finally take control of his fate.