Chapter 6: The Crimson Lion Guild
"What is it that you seek from learning Origin Energy?" Edward spoke to Cloud with his usual gentle smile.
"Freedom."
"Freedom?" Edward didn't quite understand Cloud's answer.
"Power will grant me freedom. If I become strong, I'll be able to go wherever I want and eat whatever I like without hesitation or restrictions," Cloud said with a firm expression.
Edward was surprised by Cloud's words. The smile remained on his face as he replied, "Very well, I'll give you this chance."
"Are you really going to teach me?"
Edward didn't answer. He simply said one word: "Follow me."
Joy filled Cloud's heart, and he quickly followed. Edward's clothes were neat and well-fitted, while Cloud's were somewhat dirty and clearly not his size. Still, they were decent compared to what most village children wore.
"Mr. Edward is too kind... Does he have a motive for being this nice to me? ...No, I shouldn't think that way about someone who saved me and helped me," Cloud's thoughts raced through his mind, but he quickly pushed them away to clear his head.
After following Edward for nearly fifteen minutes, they arrived at a four-story building made of gray stone, topped with large arched windows that dimly reflected the sunlight. It had a massive wooden door engraved with ancient carvings, and above it hung a sign that read: "The Crimson Lion Guild."
"What is this place?" Cloud asked softly.
"A guild affiliated with the Imperial Academy. Though it's just a small branch, here you can determine your talent grade and type. If you've read the handbook, you'll know what I mean," Edward replied.
Cloud had some idea of what Edward was talking about, so he nodded in response.
"So, what is the Imperial Academy?"
"The Academy is an institution established by the Empire to nurture the brightest and most exceptional talents across all fields. Unlike traditional schools that focus solely on reading and writing, the Imperial Academy trains its students in the use of Origin Energy."
"The opportunity I'm giving you now," Edward said with a serious tone, "is to take the Talent Assessment Test. If you pass it, you'll earn the chance to take the admission test for the Imperial Academy."
Edward explained everything clearly, allowing Cloud to form a better understanding of what the Academy was and how important it could be.
Cloud was astonished and slightly anxious. He realized that this was his chance to gain strength—his opportunity to rise above weakness and misery!
But rather than being intimidated, the fifteen-year-old boy felt nothing but increased determination and resolve.
Edward went on to tell him some of the Academy's history—that it was under the Imperial Family's patronage—and also informed him about the date of the upcoming entrance exam, which was approximately half a year away.
Cloud had skimmed through some important information before, but he hadn't gone in-depth, so Edward's explanation helped him as much as if he had read the handbook thoroughly.
"Go on," Edward said, nudging him toward the door. Just as Cloud planted his feet in front of it, the door opened, and a coarse voice came from inside:
"So it's Sir Edward. How can I help you?"
A large, muscular man with brown hair and a short beard appeared before Cloud. From his appearance, he didn't seem like someone one would want to provoke.
"Brother Drake, I brought a boy who wishes to take the Academy Qualification Test. Can he do it now?" Edward asked, still wearing his gentle smile.
"Of course, if that's what Sir Edward wishes," replied the man named Drake with a smile of his own. Then he cast a glance at Cloud, who stood motionless.
Drake's gaze sent a chill down Cloud's spine. He quickly bowed his head in greeting. "Hello! I'll be in your care, sir."
Drake smiled and replied, "Alright. If you're ready, follow me."
Edward nodded toward Cloud, and Cloud returned the gesture.
"I'll be waiting here until you're done. Do your best and stay focused," Edward reminded him.
"I will. Thank you."
Everything depends on his talent. Well… in the end, this is what will determine his path and future as an Origin Energy cultivator, Edward thought, a strange expression replacing his usual smile, making the moment feel unexpectedly serious.
End of Chapter.