Hunter Academy: Revenge of the Weakest

493  Chapter 113.1 - Rewards

When I first came here, Reina had called me to say that I had a special [Eye], and that was the reason why the organization was interested in me.

That was why I came here with anticipation and, at some point, was expecting things related to my abilities. With how Reina taught me and everything, I knew the groundwork was getting laid constantly.

As I approached Reina, I noticed the slight chill in the air, confirming my suspicion that she had just come from outside. Her expression was calm, but there was an edge to it, something purposeful.

"You are here," she said, her voice steady as she glanced at me. "The things that you requested are here."

I nodded, recalling the information I had been given about the rewards system within the organization.

After completing each stage in the [Chamber of Deception], I was told that I would receive rewards based on my performance. It was a way for the organization to assess and rank trainees, determining their potential and growth.

Apparently, the [Chamber of Deception] wasn't just a training ground—it was a place where the true capabilities of an eye user could be understood and discerned. That place was where the organization would train Wardens and others.

'A place with the special [Authority].'

Even the area where Reina had trained me with Psion lines didn't come close to the level of the [Chamber of Deception]. That place wasn't just about physical or mental training—it was about unlocking the deeper potential within those who possessed special abilities, like my [Eyes].

I had been sent there because Reina accepted it, something that made her believe I was ready to face the challenges within.

Her judgment was validated when I completed the first five stages in just two weeks. But when I wanted to push forward and challenge the sixth stage, I learned that the chamber wasn't just a linear progression.

Each set of five stages formed a block, with a significant increase in difficulty after each fifth stage. These blocks weren't just milestones—they were gateways to a higher level of understanding and ability.

Reina didn't let me challenge the sixth stage, not because she doubted my ability but because she knew that rushing into it without proper preparation could be disastrous.

In any case, the organization had promised rewards for those who succeeded in the chamber. For the first four stages, which were considered minor stages, I received credits and the opportunity to make a special request. These were valuable in their own right, but they were nothing compared to what was promised for completing a major stage.

The fifth stage, a major stage, was different. It tested not just my physical and mental limits but also the very essence of my [Eyes]. It was a stage where my understanding of reality, perception, and the underlying structures of the world were pushed to their breaking points.

And for that, the reward was equally significant.

But I am curious. Why have you requested a [Moonstone]?" Reina asked, her eyes narrowing slightly as she studied me.

I knew this question would come. The [Moonstone] wasn't just an ordinary resource; it was rare, valuable, and held properties that most in the organization wouldn't fully understand.

"The [Moonstone] is important to me," I replied, keeping my tone even and measured.

Reina raised an eyebrow, clearly expecting more of an explanation. But I wasn't ready to reveal everything just yet. Some things were better kept to myself, especially considering the unique nature of my abilities and the visions I had been experiencing.

In truth, the request for [Moonstone] stemmed from a recent realization, one that tied directly to the vision I had seen during my training. The figure that had appeared to me, bathed in the ethereal glow, was a clue—a message from my subconscious or perhaps from something deeper.

His hands and legs had been covered in something that shone with a familiar, almost mystical light. At first, I had assumed it was just an extension of his mana, but upon further reflection, I understood it to be more.

It was the [Celestalith], my weapon and companion, in a different form.

As I delved deeper into my [Lunar Mana] and its intricate workings, I already knew that the energy within me was potent, but without a proper medium, its efficiency was vastly reduced.

The [Moonstone], known for its affinity with lunar energy, would act as the perfect catalyst for harnessing and amplifying my [Lunar Mana]. This wasn't just about using it as a weapon; it was about integrating it into my martial arts, enhancing my abilities to their fullest potential.

While I had awakened to the power within me, it was still raw, untamed in many ways. The [Moonstone] would help channel that power, allowing me to focus and direct it with greater precision and impact. Without it, I would be wasting a significant portion of my mana, losing the efficiency that could make the difference between success and failure in a critical moment.

However, finding [Moonstone] was no easy task. It was a material that was both rare and difficult to acquire, even for someone with connections within an organization like this. That was why, when the opportunity presented itself, I decided to use the organization's resources to obtain a pair of [Moonstones]. It was a calculated decision, one that would set the stage for the next steps in my journey.

So, when Reina asked why I needed the [Moonstone], I kept my answer simple. "It's important to my growth," I said, leaving out the more intricate details. "I need it to reach the next level."

She seemed to consider my words carefully, her gaze lingering on me for a moment longer before she nodded. "I see. If it's that crucial to you, I won't press further."

I nodded at her words, but she was not finished.

"The other reward that you requested… the information about Silas Vayne." Reina's voice took on a more serious tone, and I could feel the weight of her words settling in the air between us.

I met her gaze evenly, waiting for her to continue.

"When you initially made this request, we didn't think it would be this difficult to trace such a person," she admitted, her expression hardening slightly. "But apparently, it's much harder than we anticipated."

Her eyes bore into mine, searching for something—an answer, a hint, a reason. There was a clear intent behind her gaze as if she was testing me and trying to gauge the importance of this request. It was understandable. In an organization like this, every request, every action, could have far-reaching consequences.

"Why are you looking for such a being?" she asked, her tone firm.

I knew this was coming, and I was prepared. But still, I chose my words carefully. "That doesn't concern you."

Reina's eyes narrowed slightly. "Everything that can cause harm to the organization concerns me," she countered, her voice steady but laced with a hint of warning.

I didn't flinch under her scrutiny. "This won't cause any harm to the organization," I stated, my tone calm and unwavering.

Her expression didn't change, but I could sense the tension in the air. "How can you be so sure?" she asked, pressing the issue.

"Because I'll make sure of it," I replied, my voice firm, leaving no room for doubt.

For a moment, we stood in silence, our gazes locked in a silent battle of wills.

Reina was testing me, but I had nothing to hide—not from her, at least. This was something I had to do, something that had nothing to do with the organization and everything to do with my own gains and goals.

Finally, Reina sighed, breaking the silence. "Very well. But understand this, Astron—I don't take these things lightly. If you pursue this, you do it knowing the risks."

"I understand," I said, my resolve unshaken.

She nodded and then grabbed another box and pointed it to me.

"Here. It is the information regarding Silas Vayne."

I knew what was inside there. Most likely, it was a drive that contained all of the information that was needed.

"And, as for your last reward," Reina continued, her tone carrying a weight of its own, "your eye upgrade is ready."

I nodded, recalling the information I'd been given when I first entered the [Chamber of Deception]. For every five stages completed, there was a significant reward—an upgrade to one's eyes. These upgrades were designed to enhance the abilities of the user, pushing the limits of what their eyes could perceive and process.

Reina handed me another box, this one smaller and more intricately designed. I opened it to reveal a small vial containing a shimmering, crystalline liquid. This wasn't just any upgrade; it was an infusion derived from the eyes of a powerful eagle-type monster known as the [Skyfury Hawk].

The [Skyfury Hawk] was a creature renowned for its incredible vision, able to discern the smallest details from up to 10 kilometers away. Its eyes were coveted for their ability to see through everything and perceive minute details at great distances—an ability that would be invaluable to someone like me.

"This upgrade," Reina explained, "is just the beginning. While you can already see through the illusions and can perceive mana, your physical range of eye capabilities was slightly falling back. And, since you had just finished stage 5 without many contributions, your first upgrade will be slightly superficial." She said.

Her words were something that I had already known. Considering the fact that I had yet to show much contribution, it made sense that they would not give me much. n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

I had just finished being a trainee, after all.

"With it, you'll be able to discern things up to 10 kilometers away, and your ability to see through deceptions and illusions will be greatly improved. It's a rare and powerful enhancement, one that only those who complete the major stages receive."

I carefully placed the vial back into its box, feeling the weight of its potential in my hands. This upgrade was a significant step forward, one that would enhance my abilities in ways I was only beginning to grasp.

"Thank you, Miss Reina," I said, my voice steady but tinged with gratitude. This wasn't just a reward; it was a tool that would help me survive and succeed in the challenges ahead.

Reina nodded, acknowledging my thanks. "You're welcome, Astron. You've earned it. But there's something else we need to discuss."

I looked at her expectantly, sensing that this was about more than just rewards.

Reina nodded. "Yes. These missions are designed to test your abilities in real-world scenarios. They will push you to your limits and beyond, but they will also provide valuable experience and insights that you can't gain in a controlled training environment."

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She paused, her gaze steady as she continued. "These missions will be varied—some will require you to work alone, while others will involve teams. You'll be tasked with everything from reconnaissance and infiltration to combat and strategic operations."

"Aside from the rewards," she began, her tone turning more serious, "today is your last day in this facility. Starting tomorrow, you'll be sent on missions."

"Missions?" I asked to direct the conversation.

Reina nodded. "Yes. These missions are designed to test your abilities in real-world scenarios. They will push you to your limits and beyond, but they will also provide valuable experience and insights that you can't gain in a controlled training environment."

She paused, her gaze steady as she continued. "These missions will be varied—some will require you to work alone, while others will involve teams. You'll be tasked with everything from reconnaissance and infiltration to combat and strategic operations."

"Do you have any advice?" I asked.

Reina considered for a moment before replying. "Yes. First and foremost, trust your instincts. You've honed them through your training, and they will serve you well in the field. But don't let them blind you to new information—stay adaptable and open to change."

"Secondly, understand that missions rarely go as planned. Be prepared for the unexpected, and don't hesitate to improvise if necessary. Your ability to adapt will often be the difference between success and failure."

"And finally," she said, her tone softening slightly, "remember that you're not alone. Even when you're on solo missions, there are resources and support available to you. Use them wisely, and don't be afraid to ask for help if you need it."

I nodded, taking her words to heart. "Understood, Miss Reina. I'll do my best."

"I know you will," she replied, her expression firm. "I do not wish to repeat myself, but there are quite a lot of expectations from you thanks to the performance you have shown."

"I will make sure to satisfy them, then."

"That would be nice."

With that, she had left me, walking away. Now, it was time to receive my rewards.