Summoned with an SSS-Rank Portal Skill

William headed straight to Tholfnir's office, his heart pounding with a mix of anticipation and apprehension.

"What?" Tholfnir exclaimed, his brow furrowed in concern. "You want to go on this mission? Absolutely not. We've already lost too many students on that expedition."

William had expected resistance, but he wouldn't be deterred. "Please, Headmaster," he pleaded. "I believe it would be an invaluable learning experience. And besides," he added, holding up his hand, "I have this protective ring Professor Sebastian gave me."

Tholfnir examined the ring, his expression thoughtful. "Indeed," he conceded, "this ring possesses a powerful barrier. But even so, don't you think this is too dangerous? You've only just returned from those ruins..."

William understood Tholfnir's reluctance to risk another student's life, but he pressed his case. "Just because tragedy struck during the expedition doesn't mean it will happen again. The war could erupt at any moment, and I need practical experience to be prepared. Don't you agree?"

Tholfnir sighed, his shoulders slumping slightly. "You make a valid point, William," he admitted. "But I still believe it's unwise for you to go now. You have classes to attend, studies to pursue. Perhaps in a few months? What do you think?"

Despite his best efforts, William couldn't sway Tholfnir. The headmaster, though fond of William, remained firm in his decision.

"I understand," William said, masking his disappointment. "It's no problem. I'm sure they'll find someone else for the mission."

"Indeed," Tholfnir agreed. "But William, I have another proposition for you. What do you think about assisting the kingdom's army?"

William's eyebrows shot up. "You won't let me go on a simple mission, but you're suggesting I join the war effort?"

Tholfnir chuckled. "It's not quite like that, lad. In six months, I plan to send a few students to various military camps to provide training and magical instruction to the soldiers. Many new recruits are joining the ranks, and they need to be prepared for the upcoming conflict."

"So, I'd be like a... contracted instructor?" William clarified.

"Something like that," Tholfnir confirmed. "The compensation would be generous, both financially and in terms of experience. You'd also have the opportunity to make valuable connections within the military. And you know, when things get tough, having allies in the army can be a lifesaver."

The offer was tempting. While disappointed about the mission, William recognized the value of military training and the chance to contribute to the kingdom's defense.

"I'm interested," he said, "but let's revisit this in six months. Things might change."

"Of course," Tholfnir agreed. "No pressure."

As William left the headmaster's office, he encountered Altair, who was heading towards the gymnasium for some combat practice.

"Hey, William," Altair greeted him. "Mind helping me with some sparring? I want to test out some new spells I learned for my gauntlets." He clasped his hands together, a hopeful expression on his face. "Pretty please?"

With no pressing engagements, William readily agreed. They headed towards the gymnasium, their footsteps echoing in the quiet hallways. The prospect of a friendly duel, a chance to hone his skills and test his new magic, filled William with a sense of anticipation. He was eager to see how his abilities measured up against Altair's enhanced gauntlets.

When William and Altair arrived at the gymnasium, they saw students diligently practicing their spells, casting them on the training dummies. Everyone appeared focused. The recent attack on the ruins had motivated them to seek more power, fearful that they might face a similar fate in the future. The looming war also proved to be a powerful motivator.

Altair led the way to a closed room he had reserved for their training. "There are a few locked rooms like this one," he explained. "We can use them for a few hours daily. After that, we need to leave so other students can use them."

These rooms were used for more sensitive training and research. Not every student utilized them, but some did. William hadn't known about these rooms inside the gymnasium, and he appreciated this new information. Explore new worlds at empire

"That's good to know," William said, "but what about your training? What can I do to help you, exactly?"

Altair smiled. "You're the strongest physical combatant I've met, so I believe you have what it takes to fight against me one-on-one. It's just for me to gauge my level."

William knew Altair was skilled, but could he compete against him? After absorbing the demonic energy and learning new spells, William felt their levels were quite different.

"Sure, why not?" William agreed. In the end, he decided to help his friend.

It would be a good way for Altair to understand his level compared to his peers. When fighting powerful enemies from outside the academy, it was hard for William to get a good grasp of his own power level, so it would be a good thing for William too. They had nothing to lose in that sparring match.

Altair utilized his signature spell, creating two magical gauntlets that covered his hands, increasing the power behind his attacks. "While you use weapons like swords, I use these gauntlets. They're pretty effective," Altair said.

William liked the spell Altair used. It was different from what he was used to, and Altair had clearly worked hard to master it. But William didn't move or grab his sword. He just stood there, puzzling Altair.

"Why aren't you getting your weapon ready? Do you think you can win against me without your weapons?" Altair asked.

That was exactly what William thought. He strongly believed that his power was on a different level compared to the other first-year students. He was simply too strong for them.

Altair, feeling a little disrespected by his friend, dashed toward William, aiming a punch at him.

William, with his high stats, could easily see Altair's movements. They weren't fast enough for him. He simply dodged to the side and even slapped the back of his friend's head, teasing him.Nôv(el)B\\jnn

"You'll have to be faster than that to get me, bro," William said.

Altair turned around and lunged toward William once again. This time, he activated another spell, one that enhanced his attributes, similar to the ones William used. With it, he was much faster than before, and he managed to land a punch on William, who blocked it using both hands. William slid back with the impact, but the damage wasn't significant. His natural defenses were strong.

"How are you undamaged?" Altair asked, shock evident on his face. "Are you made of steel?"

"Haha, no. I just train my body to handle these things. You know, that's my focus, so of course I have a strong body," William said.

Altair, who had believed he was close in terms of power to his friend, now saw that the reality was the complete opposite. He had a lot to improve to get close to William. Did that make him sad? No. Altair was glad that he had a powerful friend who could help him.

"Teach me how you do it," Altair pleaded.

William looked at him and smiled. "Of course."

With the knowledge he had gained from Jinra, William was confident that he had a lot to teach Altair. That way, he could help his friend while also practicing for when he would have to teach the kingdom's army in a few months.

---

Inside a secret room within the academy, Tholfnir conversed with a cloaked figure.

"Let the boy go on this mission," the cloaked figure commanded.

Tholfnir was confused. "Why? It's dangerous."

"Do as we command."

"Understood," Tholfnir replied, saluting the cloaked figure as it vanished.