Chapter 34 Tes (1/2)

Currently, the Mercenary Association's training field was filled with people. When they heard that there was someone who wanted to challenge Sereck, they all came flocking in droves. It wasn't always the case though, as normally, people wouldn't be very interested in the usual mercenary assessment.

'Light Swordsman' Sereck, was one of the legendary figures of Deep Stone City. Every mercenary held him in high regard. Though he rarely conducts assessments personally, this time, upon the order of the president, he had to do it. This event sparked the curiosity of the mercenaries as they gathered in the corner of the training field.

Naturally, as mercenaries, all of them had already completed their mercenary assessment, which was in actuality, a very straightforward process. The Association would appoint a recognized mercenary to assess the newbie, and as long he or she received the recognition of the veteran, then they would pass. But as for someone as distinguished as Sereck? Even many of these veterans had never seen Sereck conduct an assessment personally. Thus, they were incredibly curious about the 'newbie' that had the qualifications to receive Sereck's personal evaluation.

The first one who entered the training field was the 'Light Swordsman', Sereck.

Clad in a white, leather armor with a golden lion mark imprinted on the chestguard, he appeared out of the shadows in his signature golden hair, which was combed backward neatly. When he displayed his gentle, yet confident smile on his face, an astounding wave of cheers echoed among the surrounding mercenaries. It really wasn't surprising because Sereck had a high reputation within Deep Stone City.

”I'll leave it to you, old buddy.”

The Mercenary Association's president came to Sereck's side and smiled as he patted his shoulder.

”Don't worry Moby.” Sereck returned the president's friendly gesture with an elegant smile. But still, he couldn't help but inquire about his opponent.

”It's a rare occurrence seeing you this agitated, which youngster had done it?”

”An ungrateful little devil.”

The old president grunted coldly.

”I see. Very well then. Then I will make him understand that our mercenaries aren't easy to mess with!”

Meanwhile, Rhode and Lize finally arrived at the training field after being guided by the attendant. When the crowd noticed them, they gave the duo a puzzled look. Compared to Sereck's entrance, the difference in reception was glaringly apparent.

”Big sister, Isn't that Lize?

At that moment, Barney who was within the crowd suddenly exclaimed. Shauna, who was standing beside him, frowned when she noticed Rhode and Lize but she still kept her silence.

”Isn't it that guy from before? Is he the one to be assessed today?”

The mercenaries who saw the duo from before started gossiping to one another.

”Where did that guy came from? He could actually force the President to summon Sereck?”

”He even tries to maintain the air of mystery around him with that cloak. From a glance, I can tell that he's not a good person.”

”What is he? Looking at his appearance, is he a mage?”

”No way. He didn't even bring a wand. Can you see what he is holding.... eh? EH!!?? Isn't that our usual sparring sword!?”

Even both the president and Sereck was somewhat surprised when they noticed Rhode's choice of weapon. The sparring sword was a piece of common equipment provided by the Association, and certainly not a weapon that mercenaries would use in an assessment of this caliber. Most mercenaries would prefer to use their own weapons just for the fact that they were more familiar with it. Even if they wanted to use a common sword, they would still use something more comfortable, and not this sparring sword which had no modification at all.

Did he intend to wield this sword to fight Sereck?

When everyone was busy discussing that matter, Rhode had already walked up to the Sereck and the old president. He briefly paid his respects to both of them and pulled his hood.

”I'm ready. The two of you can start anytime.”

”Are you going to use this sword to challenge me?” Sereck frowned and said.

Since it was rare for him to conduct an assessment, he didn't particularly have any ill feelings about Rhode. But if the opponent used ordinary weapons to fight, then it would be meaningless even if he won.

”Young man, don't be pressured, do what you need to do. It is only a sparring match and we hope to assess your real strength and level. The outcome is not important.”

”We think alike, Mr. Sereck.”

Rhode was still calmly holding the sword in his hand.

”So, please don't mind about my choice of weapon... Since I also wish to experience the might of the Light Swordsman.”

”Very well then.”

Since Rhode had made his decision, Sereck's face also turned serious. In the beginning, he thought that it would be unfair if he used a magic sword against an ordinary weapon, but since Rhode took the initiative to affirm him of his own choice, then he had no more qualms about etiquette.

Sereck nodded lightly and glanced towards the president. It wasn't until now that he finally understood why his old buddy got mad with this kid.

But who is he?

Sereck didn't think much, he shook his head and unsheathed his sword.

”Bring it on!” His low voice echoed throughout the training grounds.

Rhode didn't say anything as he pulled out his sword slowly while carefully observing the Light Sword on Sereck's hand. In an instant, Rhode leaned his body forward and disappeared as he activated his shadow flash.

Swordsmanship skill?