A week later, Alden discovered a small hidden trial under the library's restricted section. Unlike the flashy students running around the courtyard, Alden had future-reading instincts from his books and knowledge of ancient dungeon layouts.
SYSTEM NOTICE:
Hidden Trial Detected
Rank: F
Floors: 1
Monsters: Minor elemental spirits
Reward: Observation and analysis bonus
Using his Lightning Affinity, he disabled traps and captured mana constructs for analysis rather than combat.
Alden muttered:
"Efficiency… knowledge… understanding patterns… this is what separates the casual mage from a master."
By the time he left, his talent observation bonus had increased, giving him subtle insights into combat efficiency and elemental synergy.
He smiled.
Knowledge is power. And I will master both.
The festival brought Alden into contact with Lucien's antics, though he remained mostly detached. Alden observed from a distance as Lucien displayed his blue flame mastery during demonstrations.
Alden's mind calculated quietly:
Interesting… an extroverted student with high affinity control and unique talent. Could be useful for collaboration—or a potential rival.
When Lucien disappeared toward a hidden trial, Alden noticed subtle mana fluctuations around the cliffside. His curiosity piqued, he made a mental note to study Lucien's movements later.
Alden's personality was calm, analytical, and introverted, yet there was a spark of ambition that matched Lucien's drive, setting up future team interactions, rivalries, and eventual bonding.