⟨⟨Lightning Parade!⟩⟩ ［Julius］
Arcs of lightning, blue and white, soared all throughout the training grounds, lashing like a deadly tempest and swallowing everything there is to be swallowed. Blinding halos of light filled the battlefield, thunders following soon after.
A massive figure was struck by such a display, the bolts of lightning carving out deep scars through its body, making it shriek in extreme pain. Its body which was once drenched in its own blood was now charred black from the heat of plasma.
GU... GURAAKKKK.... THUD THUD CRASH
It tried to walk a couple steps, but the pain and suffering was too much to handle. Its flames of life soon started to flicker, finally going out as the harsh winds of death and brutality blew upon it. The Ogre Commander has fallen.
HUFF HUFF HUFF HUFF
"How's that, you bastard...?" ［Julius］
Yet despite the arduous and unreasonable battle he endured, the prince was still standing strong, overcoming the adversity and destroying the opponent before him. He may now be weak and exhausted, but he stood victorious through it all.
"H-His Highness did it! His Highness took down an Ogre Commander!"
"I knew His Highness was already C-rank, but to think he can already take down an Ogre Commander on his own! This is beyond exceptional!"
"That's Prince Julius for you! The idol of the Royal Academy!"
Cheers and applause followed after the Second Prince's grand victory, the crowd and the spectators chanting his name, clapping their hands all the while. Well, it wasn't just him. Everyone had also taken down their own opponent.
But rather than be glad and happy about the applause and admiration from the other students, everyone was more relieved that everything was finally over. They did not shame their dignity and kept their honor up high. They deserve all the praise.
As for the ones who put them through the wringer, well, they were smiling too. They get to see their former students improve so much, acting like gallant knights they are supposed to become. It was a touching sight.
"Good job, everyone. We knew you could put it off." ［Grey］
"You bastard... You should have told us if you were going to put us through hell. We almost died, goddammit..." ［Julius］
"But you survived, didn't you? And, it's not like the enemy would warn you before attacking. This is a test to see how prepared you are." ［Grey］
"Screw off... You just want to have some fun." ［Julius］
"Hahaha. I'm afraid I don't know what you mean, Your Highness." ［Grey］
Calmly said Grey, clearly provoking Julius. The latter was now barely able to stand, using his spear as support and unable to move a single muscle. It was no use getting angry. He couldn't even yell back even if he wanted to. He was out of energy.
Well, it's not like Grey and Yuna put them through hell and back just to get a couple laughs out of it. They really wanted to see how much they've grown and analyze how they fight against all sorts of opponents.
The Cadets have grown quite a lot, but there are still some aspects they are lacking like wariness and patience for example. They were already exceptional, but they can still use some work. They were more than happy to give some pointers.
"Well, it seems like you still have some energy left, Cadet Julius. It looks like 1 round still wasn't enough, huh?" ［Grey］
"Oi! Don't you dare!" ［Julius］
"Just kidding～... We're not demons, you know?" ［Grey］
"Dammit... I'm really gonna get you back for this..." ［Julius］
"Sure. I'll be looking forward to it, Your Highness." ［Grey］
Shenanigans aside, Grey and Yuna soon healed and tended to the Cadets one after another, restoring them to peak conditions, and then handing some quick pointers for them to take note off. A little manual, so to speak.
There really wasn't much to the manual but simple observations detailing what skills and attributes need some polishing on, along some terrible habits and tendencies they need to get rid off. It was a little gift and token of apology from the two.
But even more so than the manual everyone received, the Cadets looked forward more to the sweets Grey and Yuna mentioned. Their eyes were literally sparkling when they were given their share, everyone clearly excited.
It wasn't just unfounded excitement either. As soon as everyone took a bite of the treats Grey and Yuna brought, their mouths were flooded with sweet, creamy, sour, and fruity flavors, blooming like beautiful flowers in spring.
"Wooh～! This is what I'm talking about! This is great!"
"Pudding was amazing, but this is also wonderful! The texture is so soft and creamy!"
"Instructor, can we know what these are called?"
It was as if they were reborn by the touch of sweetness from the treats Grey and Yuna gave them, their fatigue slowly seeping away as if they were just lies. Some even had tears in the corners of their eyes, savoring every single bit.
Even Amelia who always tries to keep her prim and proper picture in mind couldn't help but indulge in such wonderful treats. If she had been alone in her room, she would have eaten to her heart's content. Being a lady was hard.
"Do you always bring these things to Natalia when I'm not around?" ［Julius］
"Yeah, we do... Why?" ［Grey］
"Don't you 'why?' me... Do you know how frustrating it is to be the only one who missed out. Save some for me as well." ［Julius］
"Uuu... So troublesome..." ［Yuna］
"You really have no regard for the members of the Royal Family, do you... Would you still act like that even if I make a request as a Prince?" ［Julius］
"Request all you want. We rank higher than you." ［Grey］
Julius came up with a little jab, but received a heavy hook in return. No matter how he uses his words, he could never hope to beat Grey and Yuna when it comes to power or status. All he could do was ask and request politely.
Well, Grey and Yuna didn't wait to make it reach such a point. Grey and Yuna already experienced nightmares after hearing the King and the Crown Prince plea. If Julius were to do the same, Grey would outright punch him without hesitation.
"Haah... I knew it... It really was you two... You sure love causing commotions, don't you, Grey, Yuna?" ［Elise］
And just when everyone was enjoying their herd-earned treats, another batch of students came from the other training grounds. They were all familiar faces all equipped with their trusty equipment, looking a little rough.
They were the class Yuna handled back when she was still an instructor, now called Class 4-A. And much like Class 5-A, it seems like they just finished their sparring session with one another, some wearing towels hanging on their neck and shoulders.
They've also grown quite a bit from last year as well, not at the lower ends of D-rank, with Elaine, Elise, and one other at the higher end of D-rank. They are even stronger than the average student of Class 5-A.
"Elise! Elaine! You're late!" ［Yuna］
"Late, you say... You didn't even tell us." ［Elise］
"That's right, Yuna. You can't just expect us to know you arrived." ［Elaine］
"Well, one thing led to another, and now we're here." ［Grey］
Much like the previous class, everyone was very friendly towards Grey and Yuna, greeting them casually and extending their gratitude for all the things they taught them back then. It has been a while but all the lessons still stuck to them.
Well, everyone except one student... The one which remained silent was George Beldon, the rascal son of Marquess Abraham Beldon... Or at least, he once was, but compared to his complexion before, he now looked a lot calmer and patient.
"Your Highness, Archduchess Yuna..." ［George］
George soon opened his mouth and spoke up, everyone turning quiet all of the sudden. He took his first step and everyone made way for him. Soon enough, he was right in front of Yuna, stern emotions brewing in his eyes.
"Aren't youー" ［Yuna］
"I truly apologize for my rude and insolent misconduct from before. I have already reflected on my words and actions and am ready to receive any punishment you deem to be most worthy. Please pardon my rude remarks." ［George］
It was quite the apology, but judging from how calm the other students were, it seems like they already knew about the matter, and had already made way for him. It was a little sudden, but it was more than enough.
The one the most shocked was none other than Yuna herself, and no, not because she was surprised by how much George had changed, but because she had already forgotten who he was, let alone what he even did.
Yuna had already met countless rude people from before, and he already had them erased from her memories. If it wasn't for the fact that every student had nameplates on their uniforms, she wouldn't have known who he was. She felt a little guilty.
"You're George, right...? Lord Abraham's son?" ［Yuna］
"Yes. That is correct. Once again, I apoloー" ［George］
"Look, George. I really don't mind anything about what you said before. I know you were influenced at the time, and know that you didn't mean it. I'm not so petty as to bear some grudge just because of that." ［Yuna］
"But, Your Highness! Iー" ［George］
"No buts! I have already long forgiven you, and that's it! Rather, I feel happy that you're now back to your old self. Welcome back, George." ［Yuna］
"Your Highness... Thank you... Truly, I couldn't be any happier..." ［George］
Or so Yuna says, but most of her words were something she just said without much thought. She was clearly feeling guilty of forgetting George's name, and even more so after seeing the genuine look of relief and happiness on his face.
Though, it seems like no one has yet to notice what was really happening... No one other than Grey, that is. He already knows what's running through his lovely fiancée's mind, and couldn't help but chuckle about it. She was just too cute.
"See? What did we tell you? Grey and Yuna aren't that petty to hate you. You were just overthinking too much, George." ［Elise］
"Yes... You were most certainly right, Lady Elise. That takes some weight off my shoulders. I couldn't be any more thankful for your help." ［George］
"Hehe! You can count on us anytime!" ［Elise］
"Yes! Congratulations, Lord George!" ［Elaine］
It seems like it wasn't just Yuna George who had some reconciliation with, but also with his classmates and co-cadets. They seemed to have been supporting him since he got back to his feet, and are now on friendly terms with him.
Speaking of which, George was the other person on par with Elise and Elaine. It looks like despite the drawback he experienced from the mind control from the previous incident, he has been catching up in his training.
Grey and Yuna had heard some words from Vilma and Abraham that George has been training with his sword and fire magic to get his mind off things, and had also been taking Adventurer quests, but it seems like he deserves more credit.
"Haha. I thought you hated George, Elise. Didn't you say back then that there's no way you'll ever be friends with him?" ［Grey］
"H-Hey? That was then! This is now! It's totally different!" ［Elise］
"Well, I was pretty despicable and unlikable back then, so I fully understand Lady Elise's feelings... I was really rude back then, wasn't I?" ［George］
"Fufufu? That's right. Elise really hated you back then." ［Elaine］
"Hahaha. I see... Well, I'm not against making it up to you. Please don't hesitate to tell me whenever you have something in mind." ［George］
"... Yes... I'll tell you when I have the chance..." ［Elise］
They were getting along well... No rather, they were getting along too well, Elise's cheeks turning a little red after hearing George's words. There was something sweet in the air, and it seems like everyone else had already noticed.
Well, Elise is quite the stubborn girl, after all. With how focused she is with training and her studies, it wouldn't be surprising if she doesn't even know what she was feeling at the moment. Elaine could only chuckle at her cousin's clumsiness.
"Well, to celebrate our reunion and everyone's reconciliation, how about we play a little game? As for the prize, we'll have some sweets, how about it?" ［Grey］
"Ohh! A game and sweets! I'm all up for it!"
"Are we really having sweets?! I'm in! I'm in!"
"Me too! I'll also join in!"
Grey suddenly mentioned a game and prizes, and everyone was quickly filled with enthusiasm. However, the same couldn't be said for the previous Cadets who knew full well just what kind of fate awaits their unsuspecting juniors.
After all, the Class 4-A students have been practicing on a faraway training ground, and had no idea what the Class 5-A students were up to. All they knew was that they had a little bit of training, and that it was quite rowdy.
It may have been because it has been over a year and a half since they last trained, but everyone had almost forgotten how brutal their training methods are. They only realized when they saw the sinister smiles on their faces. It was already far too late.
"Kyaa! Mommy, help me! Please save me～!"
"Stop chasing me, you ugly bastard!"
"Why is your hide so tough?! This is cheating!"
7 Golden-Eyed Trolls were released and 3 Greater ogres were rampaging along them. They were both D-rank monsters, but the latter had edge when it comes to brute strength and combat skills. They were the perfect enemies.
Well, perfect for Grey and Yuna's standards that is. However, the same couldn't be said for the students who are now running around the training grounds for their dear life. Their minds had yet to comprehend what was happening.
It was already the second time Grey and Yuna put the students through the wringer, but the spectating students were still flabbergasted by the sight. It was only then that they understood just how the Class-A students got so strong.
"Good luck, Juniors! You can do it! Heaven is waiting for you!"
"That's right! Just think of the sweets! They're all worth it!"
"Don't panic! Calm and collect yourselves!"
Sympathizing with the situation of their Juniors, the Class 5-A students cheered and supported the Class 4-A students from the background. They kept on encouraging them, cheering for them like the supportive seniors they are.
Grey and Yuna were supporting them too, but with such enjoying smiles plastered on their faces, they might as well be provoking them. It was only then that everyone remembered what kind of training they went through. It was hell.
"Are you sure you don't want to join your seniors? We won't summon opponents you can't beat, you know?" ［Yuna］
"Right. And even if you get injured, we can just heal you right back up. There's no need to be scared off. You're aspiring knights, aren't you?" ［Grey］
"That... I will pass for now, Your Highnesses."
"M-Me too... I don't think I can handle monsters that well yet."
"C-Can I get an autograph, Your Highnesses?"
They didn't just stop at their former students either, pulling even more victims from the spectating students who were just minding their own businesses. There were many that declined, and surprisingly, some that agreed.
Well, it was a little unexpected, but it seems like Grey and Yuna will hold a little game for the young ones to try and fight against some monsters. The prize will be sweets as promised and also an autograph along with it.
Back to the fight, it seems that everyone had already adjusted to their enemies, now focusing on taking them down with a stern look in their eyes. Some analyzed their weak points, some tried confusing it, and some tried disarming it.
Needless to say, it seems like everyone has developed their own personal ways to deal with their enemies. There were still some flaws, but it was a huge improvement to how they fought before. Yuna was really happy.
"I was wondering what the commotion was all about... So it was you two, huh... You never cease to surprise me, Your Highnesses." ［Arnelius］
And just when things were heating up, a familiar figure walked in the scene along with some new faces. It was the Headmaster, and behind him were proud instructors of the Royal Academy, all curious about the two of them.
"It's good to see you again, Headmaster." ［Yuna］
"It's good to see you again too, Your Highnesses. Though it would have been best if you notified me of your arrival beforehand." ［Arnelius］
"Well, you were busy in a meeting, so we thought we'd just barge in. We aren't getting punished, are we?" ［Grey］
"Hahaha. That's a good one, Your Highness. If there is someone that has the guts to punish you, I would love to meet them." ［Arnelius］
Thankfully, it seems like the Headmaster wasn't there to scold them. Rather, he was just as interested as seeing Grey and Yuna's training method. It may look insane, but that the two around, it was the best method to get stronger.
Soon enough, the Headmaster introduced Grey and Yuna to the instructors, and as one would expect, everyone felt a little nervous greeting them. Some even asked for autographs, only to be hounded by the students.
After all, the students are putting their sanity on the line and will be fighting monsters to get their autographs. It would be unfair to get it without pouting in any work. All they could do was give up.
"Still... Your training method... You couldn't have come up with a better time. This should condition the Cadets for the Hunting Competition." ［Arnelius］
"The Hunting Competition... We've heard a lot about it. What is it about, Headmaster?" ［Yuna］
"Right, I suppose you don't know, huh..." ［Arnelius］
One way or another, everyone soon started talking about the upcoming Hunting Competition the cadets have been talking about all day. Just like Grey and Yuna predicted, it was a school-wide event which is amongst the highlights every year.
Not only the Cadets, there would also be influential figures present to oversee the whole competition, the Royal Family included amongst them. The grand prize would also be personally given by the King himself.
The premise of the whole competition was to see the potential of the future knights of the kingdom, and have them hunt the best Beast they can in the vicinity of the Royal Capital, with a time limit of 8 hours from 9 o'clock all the way to 5 o'clock.
It wasn't just the Hunting Competition either. There were also opening exhibitions, ribbon tying, sponsored events, a celebratory party afterwards, and many more. It was an all around event which has been a long-held tradition.
It was to be held on the 11th of Adamas, a little over a month from now, and so, to prepare themselves, everyone has been working hard. It was especially true for the 5th year classes who are about to graduate.
"Can we participate, Headmaster?" ［Yuna］
"That's... That may be impossible, Your Highness..." ［Arnelius］
Unfortunately for Grey and Yuna, only students are able to take part in the Hunting Competition. It was a shame, but there was nothing they could do about itー or so they thought at first.
However, just because they couldn't participate, it doesn't mean they couldn't get involved in the Hunting Competition itself. There was a way to make the event more exciting and motivating for the Cadets and for themselves.
"Right, Headmaster... Have the prizes been decidedー no, can we add to the prizes? It shouldn't be a problem, right?" ［Grey］
"Hmm... I still have to consult with his Majesty, but there shouldn't be any problems. Do you have something in mind, Your Highnesses?" ［Arnelius］
"Not really～! Just a little donation, you could say～!" ［Yuna］
Said Yuna playfully as she and Grey asked a little favor from the Headmaster. They wanted to add a special prize for the winner, asking him to make an announcement sooner rather than later. A little bonus to motivate the students.
However, hearing their words, Arnelius could tremble inside. It has always been overshadowed by their heroic achievements, but Grey and Yuna are also prodigies in their own crafts, crafting their names in history, one way or another.
Grey was a Tier-8 enchanter and blacksmith, and Yuna was a Tier-9 alchemist. No matter what item they decide to produce together, it would be worth millions at the very least, maybe even reach the billions. It would be invaluable.
"Then, I'll try to make a suggestion, Your Highnesses." ［Arnelius］
"Fufufu! Thank you so much, Headmaster!" ［Yuna］
Yuna was happy and excited, Grey was satisfied, the Headmaster was feeling a little conflicted, and the students who overheard the conversation were very excited, eyes sparkling brightly like the stars in the midnight sky.
As for the Class 4-A students, well... They are still suffering from Grey and Yuna's little game. They brandished their weapons and defended against heavy attacks, dealing wounds time and time again... And soon enough...
"Ouhhh! Take this, you despicable thing!"
GUAAAKKKKKK THUD THUD CRASH
... The first One-Eyed Troll was finally slain, a loud cry of victory echoing in the air. After it, more and more trolls were taken down, and soon enough, the Greater Ogres followed. The whole class made it through, yelling their victory out loud.
"They sure are energetic, huh..." ［Arnelius］
"Fufufu! They really are." ［Yuna］
CHAPTER 474 END