How to survive in the Romance Fantasy Game Chapter 661: Light 2

Although Kagami had vowed to avoid training with absurd monsters like Lucas and Riley ever again, he found himself unable to decline this invitation.

As was usually the case, the experience left him completely stunned.

Every time he sparred with them, he was struck by the sheer unfairness of their natural talent.

“Haha... I always knew you were durable, but for the love of the goddess—at least act like it hurt, man.”

Kagami offered a weary laugh as he stood tall, rolling his shoulders to ease the tension.

“I am hurting, though...”

Lucas muttered his response, even if the grin on his face suggested otherwise.

The strike had been incredibly rapid—too fast for comfort.

Lucas had been forced to exert every ounce of his concentration just to mount a defense.

Kagami’s [Meteor Fist] had crashed directly into his block, releasing a shockwave that rippled across the training grounds.

Faint smoke rose from his elbows and arms, where light burns marked the skin that had taken the brunt of the impact.

It hadn't even been the full extent of Kagami’s power.

Yet, Lucas had absorbed it as if it were nothing more than a standard heavy blow.

“That was my signature move, you know...” Kagami remarked with a heavy sigh. “Anyway, have you had enough?”

“I’d like to keep going, but...”

Lucas scanned their surroundings.

The training area was in shambles.

The stone was fractured, the earth was upturned, and fragments of the reinforced flooring were strewn everywhere.

Despite this being one of the more spacious fields in Killian Hall—constructed to withstand the average student—the destruction caused by just the two of them was reaching its limit.

Any further, and the cost of repairs would likely bankrupt a person.

“...Yeah,” Lucas agreed. “We should probably call it a day.”

“Oh? I didn't think you were the type to worry about those details.”

Kagami lifted an eyebrow, showing his genuine surprise.

“Haha... I suppose I was too reckless in the past,” Lucas admitted, rubbing the back of his head. “These days, Janica is always lecturing me about these things.”

Kagami went silent for a moment before letting out a soft chuckle.

“That makes sense.”

Lucas loosened his stance, swaying his hands gently.

As he relaxed, his divine power began to permeate the injured area.

A comforting golden glow shimmered over his scorched flesh, mending the tissue until the burns vanished as though they had never occurred.

Kagami observed the scene in silence.

“I’m aware you possess divine powers,” he said, shaking his head, “but it’s still a shock whenever I witness it. Are you certain you don't want to become a paladin later on?”

Lucas hesitated briefly before he spoke.

“While that is a noble vocation,” he stated firmly, “the path I am currently walking is the one I chose for myself.”

“Knighthood, I see...” Kagami exhaled softly. “Well, everyone follows their own ambition, so I won't criticize your choice.”

“I appreciate that.”

A short silence settled between them before Kagami probed further.

“But seriously... that maneuver you just performed. Are you getting ready for something specific?”

“Yes.”

Kagami knit his brows, mentally reviewing the exchange.

He hadn't caught the full detail, but just before the blow landed, he felt it—mana expanding and then violently compressing around Lucas’s shoulders and arms at the final millisecond.

It had condensed into a dense, invisible layer of armor protecting his skin.

It was a sophisticated application of Lucas’s massive mana reserves.

Few would even attempt to condense mana around specific body parts in such a manner.

Even Kagami found it difficult to contain his mana when executing his [Meteor Fist].

After all, a single mistake...

Could result in permanent physical damage.

“I knew you were a genius, but this is on another level,” Kagami said, shaking his head in disbelief. “If you actually perfect that—wait, what am I saying. You’ll probably master it in a few hours. You’re really pushing your limits this time, aren't you?”

Lucas met Kagami’s words with a smile, the kind born from a clear sense of purpose.

“If I want to stand before my rival as an equal,” he explained, “without fearing a premature, pointless loss... then I have to prepare at least this much.”

Kagami’s eyes narrowed slightly.

“So, that technique is meant for Riley?”

Lucas laughed, looking slightly sheepish as he turned his gaze away.

“In a way, yes,” he confessed. “Specifically, it’s a counter I’ve built for his [Hidden Blade Technique]. His swordsmanship is designed for instant lethality. One perfect hit and the fight is over.”

He slowly made a fist.

“So, I have to buy myself time. Even a single second is enough to guard my vitals and stay in the fight.”

Kagami stared at him intently.

Observing that degree of resolve—devoid of doubt or hesitation—he couldn't help but smile.

Naturally, he felt a sting of envy.

Anyone would feel that way standing beside someone as gifted as Lucas.

However, the effort involved was undeniable.

Lucas hadn't simply been handed his current strength.

He had bled for it.

He had strategized for it.

He had prepared for it.

And above all, Kagami could sense his intent.

Lucas wasn't seeking power out of vanity.

He truly desired a fair duel with Riley.

Even though Kagami was closer to Riley, he found himself starting to like Lucas.

“Well,” Lucas said while stretching out his arms, “since we’re finished here, I’m heading out.”

“Is that so?” Kagami replied. “I think I’ll linger for a few more minutes.”

Lucas looked back at the training ground.

It was obvious he wasn't done with his own practice yet.

“Good luck then,” Kagami called out. “I hope you finish that technique.”

Lucas paused and gave a nod.

“Thanks...”

“Just don't go losing in the middle of the tournament.”

“Don't worry. That won't happen.”

“Hahaha, I’m only joking.” Kagami dismissed the thought with a wave. “To be honest, I doubt anyone can actually beat you right now... maybe Seo or Rose. But even then, my money is on you.”

With a final wave, Kagami turned and walked away.

Lucas watched his departure before slowly closing his eyes.

He drew a deep breath.

Then exhaled.

His body still throbbed from Kagami’s earlier strike, a physical reminder that his new technique wasn't quite ready.

Yet, that very clash had refined his focus.

He could feel his proficiency improving, however slightly.

Just wait, Riley...

His pulse quickened.

A mix of tension, excitement, and anticipation flooded him as he imagined the tournament stage.

Soon, they would meet again.

No longer as friends training, but as rivals under the public eye.

This time, Lucas would hold nothing back.

He would reveal everything—his blade, his will, and his honor as a knight.

It was a rare opportunity.

And Lucas had no intention of letting it go to waste.

Mana began to swirl around him once more, condensing as he focused his mind.

Regardless of what stood in his path—

He made a silent promise.

He would not taste defeat.

Not until he and Riley reached the final stage of the competition.

....

“Look, it’s Lady Rose!”

“Wow... she’s so beautiful.”

“What is she doing here? Is Riley with her?”

A quiet murmur always trailed in Rose’s wake.

In the past, it was subtle—hushed whispers and stolen glances.

Now, the attention was much more overt.

Nevertheless, Rose ignored it.

She had long ago adapted to this level of scrutiny, learning how to let it wash over her without effect.

“Here are your cream puffs, with extra milk cream and cheese, dear customer!”

“Thanks...”

Rose took the warm paper bag with both hands, the sweet aroma wafting toward her.

She gave a slight nod before exiting the café.

“Please come again soon!”

“I will.”

The door clicked shut behind her.

She took a bite as she walked, the velvety sweetness coating her tongue. For a moment, she slowed down to savor the taste.

As usual, the world appeared monochrome to her—flat, boring, and devoid of vibrant color.

And yet...

It felt somewhat warmer today.

The feeling was faint, nearly imperceptible, but it was there.

It was as if a light breeze of color was brushing against her world, tinting the edges even if it didn't fill the center.

Rose stopped.

A soft ache stirred in her chest—not a painful one, just a presence.

Her mana circles began to vibrate softly, nearing another breakthrough, another level of power.

She pressed a hand to her heart, calming her breathing.

So close...

It was a pity she couldn't spend the entire day with Riley.

A part of her truly wanted to, more than she was willing to say out loud.

But she had her own goals.

Private matters.

She checked the time, nodded to herself, and continued on her path.

Puff.

A small wisp of black smoke manifested near her shoulder, drifting for a moment before taking a solid form.

“You’ve arrived...”

“Yes. Please excuse my tardiness, milady. Unexpected complications arose.”

“It’s fine.”

Rose lifted the bag slightly.

“I have the bread. You mentioned this was her favorite, right?”

“Yes... she would visit that café specifically for it.”

“I see...”

Rose cast her gaze downward, her fingers tightening slightly on the bag.

The small figure—resembling a gentleman in a black suit and overcoat—watched Rose silently for a moment before speaking.

“Are you certain you wish to proceed?”

“Yes.”

Her reply was immediate.

Oz looked at her once more, searching for any sign of hesitation, then gave a slow nod.

“Very well... shall we proceed?”

“Yes. Just provide the coordinates.”

As soon as she spoke, Oz’s perspective shifted.

The world warped instantly—without lag or distortion—and a new landscape appeared before him in a flash.

He felt a sense of humility at the display.

Performing teleportation with that level of fluidity wasn't a common feat.

There was no physical strain, no magical backlash, and no lingering spatial instability. It was perfect.

“It seems your mastery over the celestial arts has reached new heights, Lady Rose...”

Rose had always been a prodigy in magic—particularly celestial magic—but this was different. Oz could tell her growth had surpassed her previous limits.

Rose simply nodded at the compliment, her focus already elsewhere.

They stood upon a sharp cliffside.

A gentle wind swept past, bringing the scent of the forest and soil from the valley below.

A thick forest stretched out beneath them, leading to a wide mountain range illuminated by clear sunlight.

The view was magnificent.

“She always preferred high vantage points,” Oz whispered. “So... I made sure to preserve this place.”

Rose nodded again and walked forward.

Her golden eyes settled on the reason for her journey.

A few meters from the edge of the cliff stood a headstone.

She knelt down slowly, placing the bag of bread before it with the care of one presenting an offering.

“I’ve come to visit, sister...”

The wind picked up as Rose looked at the stone.

Dorothy Gale.

The name was etched clearly into the rock.

Rose’s golden eyes shimmered as she gazed at it, her face remaining calm—though her heart was heavy with the emotions she kept hidden.