Chapter 29 VENTURING OUT OF ACADEMY GROUNDS

**System reboot activated** **Frostbite successfully eliminated** **Congratulations! Your endurance has increased by 5 points!** "Urgh...." Kaelen muttered while he slowly began to regain his consciousness. But at this moment, he suddenly thought of Lila and Carmilia standing together. "Lila!!!" The result of that thought made Kaelen to exclaim in panic as he instantly fully regained his consciousness. 'Wait... Am in my room?' Kaelen thought in surprise when he realized that he is currently on his bed in his room. Creak! Right at that moment, the door to his room slowly opened before he saw Morris walk into the room. "Ah! You are finally awake!" Morris exclaimed in shock when he saw that Kaelen was seated on his bed. "How long have I been asleep?" Kaelen asked with a serious look on his face as he slowly got off his bed. Right now, he didn't notice that he was now in casual clothes instead of his students uniform. "Hmm, This should be the fifth day" Morris answered with a pondering look on his face. But Kaelen expression suddenly twitched as he muttered. "What?" "But you don't have been bothered by it. Right now, you are the students of this academy number one enemy so it was a good thing you were cooped up in here" Morris quickly said in a consoling manner. "How is that a good thing!? Now where exactly do you want me to learn swordsmanship?" Kaelen quickly asked with an expression that shows that he is on the verge of crying. "How should I know? Was I the one who told you to become disrespectful to your elders a few days ago?" Morris asked back with a reprimanding look on his face. "Damn it, now am done for" But Kaelen didn't give Morris an answer as he sadly said while he fell back down to his bed. After looking at Kaelen who has begun wallowing on his bed for a few moments, Morris had no choice but to sigh helplessly before he said. "Ok Kaelen, how about we go out of the academy grounds and explore a little?" "How will that help my predicament?" Kaelen asked as he looked at Morris. Above the archway, in elegant script, is the academy's motto: "Sapientia et Virtus" ("Wisdom and Virtue"). The path before the gates widens into a broad courtyard paved with smooth, dark stone tiles. The courtyard is lined with tall, ancient trees that provide shade and add to the serene atmosphere. Flowering plants and small fountains are strategically placed, creating a harmonious blend of nature and architecture. The sound of trickling water from the fountains adds a calming effect, making the entrance not only impressive but also inviting. To the left and right of the courtyard, marble statues of historical figures from the academy's long history stand as silent guardians. Each statue is accompanied by a plaque detailing the achievements of the person it represents, reminding students and visitors alike of the legacy they are stepping into. As the main doors of the academy building come into view, they are equally impressive, crafted from heavy wood and reinforced with decorative ironwork. These doors are often kept open during the day, symbolizing the academy's openness to those who seek knowledge and growth. Above the doors, stained glass windows depict various emblems and symbols representing the different disciplines taught within the academy, casting colorful reflections on the stone floor below. The entrance to the Pace Setter Academy is not just a physical threshold; it is a symbolic gateway to a world of learning, challenge, and transformation. It sets the stage for the journey that every student undertakes within its walls, embodying the grandeur and excellence that the academy stands for. "I don't think I can get used to how grand this entrance is" Kaelen suddenly said with a marvelled look on his face. "I support that notion brother" Morris said with the same expression on his face. "Halt!!" But right before the could go through the gates, they suddenly heard a thunderous voice as someone mystically materialized right in front of them. This person is dressed in a dark, tailored uniform that blends seamlessly into the shadows, he seems to embody the very essence of discretion and secrecy. His attire, a deep midnight blue with subtle black accents, is devoid of any visible insignia, emphasizing his role as a shadowy figure who works behind the scenes. The guard's face is partially obscured by a hood that casts a shadow over his features, leaving only his sharp, vigilant eyes visible. These eyes are a piercing shade of gray, constantly scanning the surroundings with a cold, analytical gaze. They miss nothing, taking in every detail with an almost unnerving intensity. The few who have had the courage to meet his gaze often describe feeling as though they were being silently appraised, their secrets laid bare.His build is lean yet muscular, suggesting a combination of agility and strength. He stands with a quiet confidence, his posture straight and his movements economical, hinting at a background in combat or espionage. Despite his outward calm, there is an aura of latent power around him, as if he could spring into action at a moment's notice. His hands, gloved in supple black leather, are always at his sides, ready to reach for the short sword strapped discreetly to his belt or any number of hidden weapons he might carry. The guard's uniform includes a long, flowing cloak that further enhances his enigmatic appearance.The cloak, lined with a soft, noiseless fabric, allows him to move silently—a useful trait for someone accustomed to working in the shadows. A close observer might notice that the cloak's inner lining has a series of hidden pockets, likely used to store various tools and devices essential for his duties. "What business do you have outside school grounds?" The guard asked in a deep and questionimg tone. While keeping a calm look on his face, Morris stepped forward and answered the guard while looking at him right into his eyes. "I am the second son of the Gray family and I wish to visit my family"