Hunter Academy: Revenge of the Weakest novel Chapter 468

Chapter 468 105.4 - What it means to be a genius

<Combat Training Area, Fourth Day of Training, 5 A.M>

Astron stood in the training hall, his breathing steady as he completed the final strike of the [Gale Stance].

His body moved with a precision and grace that was supposed to take countless hours to achieve.

Each strike, each movement, flowed seamlessly from his core, enhanced by the controlled flow of mana.

Dakota observed from the sidelines, her keen eyes noting the perfection in each individual movement. She nodded approvingly, recognizing that Astron had mastered the basics. Now, it was time to push him further.

"Astron," Dakota called, stepping forward. "You've mastered each strike of the [Gale Stance] individually. Now, we will focus on transitioning between them flawlessly."

Astron nodded, his expression serious and focused. "I'm ready, Master."

Dakota took her place beside him; her posture relaxed yet exuded an aura of controlled power. "Watch closely," she instructed. "I'll demonstrate a series of sequences. Pay attention to how each strike flows into the next without hesitation."

She began with a simple sequence, moving through the [High Gale], [Medium Gale], and [Low Gale] strikes. Her movements were fluid and precise, each strike seamlessly transitioning into the next. The air around her seemed to hum with the energy of her mana, perfectly controlled and channeled.

"Notice how the energy flows," Dakota said as she finished the sequence. "There is no break, no pause. Each strike is a continuation of the last, maintaining the momentum and power."

Astron watched intently, absorbing every detail. "Understood, Master. I will focus on the flow."

Dakota stepped back, giving him space. "Begin with the first sequence," she instructed. "Start slowly and focus on the transitions. Speed will come with mastery."

Astron took a deep breath, visualizing the sequence in his mind. He began with the [High Gale], feeling the familiar surge of mana as he executed the strike. Without pausing, he transitioned into the [Medium Gale], his movements smooth and controlled. Finally, he flowed into the [Low Gale], maintaining the momentum and energy.

"Good," Dakota observed. "Now, repeat it. Focus on making each transition smoother."

Astron repeated the sequence, each repetition becoming more fluid. He concentrated on the flow of mana, ensuring that it enhanced each movement and transition. The virtual core within him acted as a regulator, helping him control the energy and maintain the rhythm.

As he practiced, Dakota demonstrated more complex sequences, combining different strikes in rapid succession. Astron watched closely, memorizing the patterns and flow.

"Now, try this one," Dakota said, moving through a particularly intricate sequence. Her movements were a blur of speed and precision; each strike was delivered with perfect timing and control.

Astron took a moment to internalize the sequence, then began to replicate it. His movements were deliberate and focused, each strike flowing into the next with increasing fluidity. He could feel the difference, the seamless integration of mana and movement.

"Excellent," Dakota said, nodding in approval. "You're getting it. Keep practicing these sequences. The goal is to make them second nature so you can execute them without conscious thought. That is the best way to understand the [Tempest Fang]."

*******

"You wish to take the exam? Are you sure that you have mastered the [Aura of Silence]?"

Looking at the young man standing before him, Kennet could not believe his ears. What did he just hear?

"That is right. I have mastered it completely."

A trainee mastering [Aura of Silence] in one day. Or not even in one day. In a matter of two hours?

That did not make any sense. Well, it was not like the technique was too hard or anything. It was just the beginner stages of the art itself. There was a lot more to that.

But still, it was still a complex art.

Kennet narrowed his eyes, searching Astron's face for any signs of deception or overconfidence. Yet, the young man's gaze was steady and unwavering, exuding a quiet certainty that gave Kennet pause. There were no traces of arrogance or uncertainty, only a calm assurance.

"Well," Kennet thought, "perhaps he truly has grasped it." The [Aura of Silence] was only the beginning stage of a far more intricate art, but even so, mastering it in such a short time was no small feat. Kennet decided to take Astron's words seriously, though he felt a need to set expectations.

"Very well," Kennet said, his voice taking on a more serious tone. "If you believe you are ready, we will proceed with the exam. But understand this, Astron—if you are overestimating yourself and wasting your time, there will be consequences. I do not take kindly to having my time wasted."

Astron nodded, his expression unchanging. "Understood, Instructor Kennet. I am ready."

Kennet gestured for Astron to follow him. They moved to a different part of the training area, one specially designed for testing advanced stealth techniques. The room was filled with intricate wards and sensors, each more sensitive than the last.

"This exam will test your ability to maintain the [Aura of Silence] while navigating through various obstacles designed to detect the slightest disturbance. Fail to suppress your presence, and you'll trigger the sensors."

Kennet looked Astron in the eye, his expression stern. "Are you sure you're ready for this? If you've misjudged your abilities, you'll find out soon enough."

Astron met his gaze with unwavering resolve. "I'm ready."