Chapter 98
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Chapter 98: Joining Test
Amid the clamor, Odel silently observed Midi in the distance, her thoughts growing restless.
She’d long known his true identity, so surprise wasn’t the issue. Yet after seeing him disguised as plain-looking for so long, this black-haired boy now stood like an unsheathed sword—calm yet undeniably imposing. The unfamiliarity between them deepened, not from his changed appearance but his transformed aura. No longer hiding his power, Midi now carried the authority of a seasoned commander.
And Odel? Just a commoner adventurer leading a small mercenary corps.
Could she ever keep pace with the legendary Demon Swordman?
Her heart tightened further watching Midi’s warm exchanges with the red-haired girl. The black-haired girl beside him—Alice—might act cold, yet her closeness to Midi felt effortless. Though Odel didn’t know Alice was the Mist Sorceress, the half-Elf recognized power when she saw it: cascading black hair, porcelain skin, piercing eyes, and the immense magical energy radiating from her. A true expert.
Then there was the other one.
Fina Hamilton.
Forget the Hamilton family’s influence—who in the Belmar Duchy hadn’t heard of the “Queen of Magic”? Destroying a centuries-old Count’s castle with Magic Beams, breaking three thousand soldiers’ morale, capturing it unscathed in a day… Such deeds secured the Asreks family’s victory. Odel couldn’t fathom that level of power.
Now when people spoke of “the Queen,” they meant Fina—not the reclusive ruler Skadi. This Valkyrie-like woman clearly belonged at Midi Asreks’ side.
Odel told herself this, yet bitterness lingered.
Everyone had suspected Fina’s role. During the noble war, Midi fighting alongside her was common knowledge. Now him claiming to be Hawk Brigade’s vice-leader? Only Fina could be his superior. But facing this truth, Odel’s heart still rebelled.
Fina studied Midi’s restored features approvingly before addressing the crowd. “You’re from Morning Star Mercenary Corps and Mountain Wolf Mercenary Group,” the red-haired girl declared, graceful yet firm. “Midi’s told me of your aid. As leader of the Hawk Brigade, I, Fina Hamilton, welcome you all.”
The uproar dwarfed earlier reactions—this affected them directly. Why else had these adventurers risked their lives? Not just for gear, but the Hawk Brigade’s membership. Its strength, legendary leaders, and noble backing were irresistible.
Fina understood their deepest craving: growth. Earning contribution points at Eagle’s Nest accelerated progress. Joining the Hawk Brigade? Even faster.
Yet here stood 260 members from both corps. The joining test’s 260,000-point requirement? Impossible for a month’s work. Now waived entirely?
Mountain Wolf’s elite status made some sense. But Morning Star? Only their dual-pistol-wielding leader stood out. Even acknowledging Fina’s authority and Midi’s debt, the other adventurers reeled. Shock curdled into envy, then resentment at fate’s unfairness.
However, Fina had anticipated such reactions. By announcing Mountain Wolf and Morning Star’s inclusion publicly, she aimed to control the narrative.
After letting discussions simmer briefly, the red-haired girl raised her hand for silence. The crowd quieted instantly, breaths audible in the still War Hall.
"Leader Kelvin, Leader Odel," Fina addressed plainly, "Their surprise stems from not witnessing your capabilities. Adventurers value proof over rumors. Will you join Hawk Brigade directly, or demonstrate your qualifications?"
Her message was clear: while the 260,000 contribution points would be waived, standard entry tests remained.
"Mountain Wolf accepts the joining test," Kelvin answered with a bow.
"Morning Star concurs," Odel agreed.
Status among adventurers relied on strength, not titles. Nobility might flaunt empty honors, but true warriors earned respect through skill. Better to prove themselves openly than face whispers of backdoor dealings.
Fina’s public challenge offered them this very chance.
"What form will these tests take?" Kelvin pressed.
"For Mountain Wolf’s famed tactics?" Fina tilted her head. "A strategic evaluation. As for Morning Star’s teamwork…" She turned to the half-Elf, "Select six members for a squad combat trial."
"Against monsters? Automatons?" Odel asked.
The red-haired girl’s smile dazzled. "Since Midi vouches for you, I’ll handle this personally."
Queen of Magic herself as examiner?
Excitement surged through Odel, though she couldn’t pinpoint why. "The honor is ours," she declared, meeting Fina’s gaze fiercely.
Catching the half-Elf’s spark, Fina tossed crimson locks. "Last five minutes against my attacks. Succeed, and every adventurer will acknowledge Morning Star’s worth."
News of Hawk Brigade’s leader conducting trials raced through Eagle’s Nest. Adventurers abandoned tasks, flocking to the eastern arena. Reluctant stragglers found empty workshops – even artisans had rushed off.
From the stands, Midi watched swirling crowds, remembering their student days at Royal Magic Academy. Mere years ago, they’d been examined; now they held that power. Their rebirth’s enhanced strength changed everything.
Observing Fina’s vibrant stance below, he understood – this was her true vision for Hawk Brigade. No longer shackled by survival needs, she shaped it freely. His role crystallized: protect her and what she cherished.
A gong’s clang shook the arena.
"Three minutes," Fina’s voice carried clearly, "Endure that, and victory’s yours."
"Now!" Odel reached for her dual pistols.
Her fingers barely brushed the grips when searing light streaked past. The vanguard paladin – Morning Star’s toughest level 35 defender – flew backward like a snapped kite-string, tumbling thirty meters across sand.