Extra Pages: The Author's Odyssey

Ding-Dong!, Ding-Dong! Ding-Dong!

"That's all for today," Lillian announced, concluding the class.

—Finally, it's over.

—Now I can go back to my apartment and rest in peace.

—Yeah, I'm about to do that too... Who ever thought that Mana Analysis class would be so difficult.

Mana Analysis was indeed a challenging subject. It required not only a deep understanding of magical theory but also practical skills in manipulating and measuring mana, the very essence of magical energy.

As the students began to pack up their belongings and head towards the exit, the classroom buzzed with conversations.

"I swear, if I see another mana chart, I might scream," one student muttered to a friend.

"Tell me about it. But hey, at least we survived another week," the friend replied, managing a tired smile.

Lucas, who had spent the past few hours intensely focused on his notes and assignments, finally allowed himself to relax. He gathered his things slowly, his mind still processing the intricate details of the day's lesson.

"Wait minute! Where are you going? Go back to your seat. I have an announcement."

At that moment, Lillian raised her voice, causing the students to halt in their tracks and return to their seats. Lucas paused midway, his backpack slung over one shoulder, and turned back to face the front of the classroom.

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"I have an important announcement," Lillian said, her tone serious. " After you have entered the academy. Except for classes you do, you train yourselves after we give you some guidance."

"But from tomorrow onwards, it will be changed."

" Every one of you has to participate in the special training program from now on."

" Four days a week from Monday to Thursday, before your theory class you will follow the instructor for workouts session."

Many of them were stunned by the sudden change of schedule. After adjusting to their daily routine, the academy had suddenly thrown a bomb on them.

—But why is that Miss Lillian?

—Its not fair.

—Yeah it's too sudden, you can't do that to us.

Hearing the complaints of cadets, Lillian got annoyed and angryly said,

"Shut up!"

At once, evryone shut up their mouth as the were assaulted by Lillian's killing intent... Alought it was not true intent to kill but still it was too much.

Lillian glanced at everyone and let small sigh.

"This is happening It's because all of you, Academy has noticed that cadet's are getting more lazy as time goes by. This isn't just an academic institution; it's a place to train future heroes. Physical fitness and discipline are as important as your magical studies. If you can't handle this, you're in the wrong place."

The students fell silent, processing the new schedule. Lucas, while slightly annoyed by the sudden change, understood the necessity. He knew that becoming a hero required more than just theoretical knowledge.

"Starting tomorrow at 6 AM, you will report to the training grounds for your workout sessions," Lillian continued. "These sessions will be intense, designed to push your limits and prepare you for the challenges you'll face as heroes. Dismissed."

As the students finally left the classroom, their conversations took on a new tone, filled with both apprehension and determination.

"I can't believe we have to get up so early," one student groaned.

"Yeah, but I guess it makes sense. We need to be in top shape," another replied.

Lucas walked out, deep in thought. He knew the next few weeks would be grueling, but he was determined to rise to the challenge. He made his way back to his apartment, mentally preparing himself for the new routine.

As he entered his apartment, Lucas dropped his bag and collapsed onto his bed, staring at the ceiling. The thought of waking up even earlier than usual was not appealing, but he knew it was necessary. The academy was tough, and he had to be tougher.

After a few moments of rest, Lucas sat up and decided to review his notes from the Mana Analysis class. Despite the looming early morning workouts, he didn't want to fall behind in his studies. He spread his notes out on the desk and began to go over the intricate diagrams and theories.

As he worked, he found his thoughts drifting back to the Battleground and the unexpected fame of Darkheart. He still hadn't logged back in, focusing on his studies and training instead. The messages and notifications were piling up, but Lucas remained resolute in his decision to prioritize his responsibilities.

The evening passed quickly, and before he knew it, the sky outside had darkened. Lucas set his notes aside and prepared for bed, knowing he needed as much rest as possible for the intense day ahead.

The next morning, his alarm blared at 5:30 AM. Lucas groaned, rubbing his eyes before forcing himself out of bed. He quickly changed into his workout clothes and grabbed a quick breakfast, determined not to be late for the first workout session.

***

At 6 AM, a line of students stood before a portal gate that would lead to an artificial dungeon where no monsters were present.

It will be used specifically to train us. Four classes will be included to ones and there are seven places used for us to train.

"Now that everyone arrived. Let us proceed." A bald burly man spoke out, standing at the front.

" I am instructor Ray. These four are my assistants. I am your head instructor who will oversee this workout session."He added pointing at four people behind him.

"Before we go, I want to clarify with you. You may cry, you may be broken down but you have to follow us and finish the workout session. There will be no mercy for you all."

"Is that clear".Roy shouted.

" Yes Sir".

"Raise your voice. Have you all not taken your food?"

" Yes Sir".The students shouted.

Nodding his head he walked into the portal.

After the instructors went in, we proceeded to follow them and entered the portal.

As we entered the first image we saw was that of the forest followed by a mountain.

As we were starting at the scenery before us, Ray pointed to the man behind him. The man came forward and raised his voice to speak.

"As you can see there is forest before you. You have to pass through this forest. After passing the forest you will see a ridge and you will have to climb up the ridge followed by a slope where boulders are placed at the foot of the slope. You will then need to carry those boulders up to the top of the slope."

The students exchanged worried glances, realizing the workout was going to be more grueling than they had anticipated.

"But that's not all," the instructor continued, a hint of a smirk on his face. "Once you've carried the boulders up, you'll then proceed to the next challenge: a series of obstacle courses designed to test your agility, strength, and endurance."

Lucas sighed inwardly, bracing himself for the tough workout ahead. He knew complaining wouldn't help; the only way through this was to push himself and persevere.

"Let's move out!" Ray commanded, leading the way into the forest.

The cadets followed, their determination evident despite the daunting task. As they ventured deeper into the forest, the path became more rugged and uneven, forcing them to navigate carefully.