Chapter 162

Chapter 162: Teaching

As the disciples of Lionheart Arena rejoiced over the distributed "Lionheart Swordsmanship," Midi silently observed them from above.

Years ago, the Iron-Blood Duke had casually planted this hidden piece without much investment. Thus, the Arena’s development fell entirely to successive hosts. Under Randall’s leadership after his abrupt appointment—lacking resources and connections—the Arena barely managed to survive.

The disciples themselves revealed the disorder. The oldest approached thirty while the youngest barely reached thirteen, their levels scattered between 10+ to level 26. "Uneven" perfectly described Lionheart Arena’s state.

Such imbalance demanded tailored teaching rather than uniform lessons.

Midi intended to group the disciples—but not simply by level.

Who was stronger: a 25-year-old at level 25 or a 15-year-old at level 20? No definitive answer existed. Similarly, was a 28-year-old stuck at level 15 untalented or poorly taught? Surface data proved unreliable for instruction.

Midi’s criteria boiled down to two traits—

Comprehension.

Character.

Given opportunity, high comprehension enabled rapid leveling.

Strong character allowed persevering through adversity on the perilous path.

Only those possessing both deserved becoming the Arena’s backbone and Midi’s personal attention.

He expected no once-in-a-century genius among these thirty-odd disciples, but aimed to make his teaching efficient.

"Study this ‘Lionheart Swordsmanship’ thoroughly. You have one month before assessments. Consult Dickson or Randall for questions. The top five masters will receive my personal guidance," Midi announced, scanning the group.

Initial disappointment at not getting direct teaching vanished when hearing the top performers would train under the elder who’d casually swatted a level 40 expert. This mysterious powerhouse’s guidance promised glory!

Moreover, the swordsmanship was available to all regardless of age or level. The assessment tested learning speed rather than sparring victories—equal opportunity for everyone.

Every disciple burned with motivation.

"Elder Faye truly knows how to inspire them," Randall admitted after dismissal, his admiration tinged with lonely bitterness.

Though respected during his eight years as host, he’d never inspired such fervor. Midi needed just two days—one staggering sword strike, one premium technique—to earn their awe.

Midi shook his head. "Youth naturally chase brilliance. But realizing it requires different mettle. I’m merely baiting their interest. Lasting growth needs steady nurturing."

Randall’s heart eased at these words.

"What after the month? Will you teach advanced swordsmanship?"

"Practicality defines advancement." Midi turned to him. "You have Faero Bay connections? This month, we’ll make preparations."

The month vanished swiftly.

Zhenlu Arena stayed quiet as if nothing happened.

Wells quietly finished forging another ironclad’s keel.

Randall and Kelvin combed Faero Bay’s streets while Dickson drilled disciples using Iron Blood Mercenary Corps methods, leaving all exhausted.

Midi remained in Lionheart Arena, steadily tempering the golden small sword within him.

Soon, the time for the assessment arrived.

The test was straightforward – each disciple needed to withstand three strikes from Dickson. Midi observed from the side, evaluating their swordsmanship.

Pressure revealed flaws and bad habits most easily. Though they might perform flawlessly during regular training, Dickson’s mountain-like assault forced most disciples to rely on instinct, exposing their true capabilities.

This method clearly showed each disciple’s progress in the Lionheart Swordsmanship.

Five were ultimately chosen:

Peter (Randall’s first disciple, level 26), Matthew (second disciple, level 23), and Janet (third disciple, female, level 22). These three had always been Randall’s favorites and naturally rose to the top through Midi’s selection, proving Randall’s judgment correct.

The other two included a 24-year-old who’d stagnated below level 20 for years before skyrocketing in level and skill after learning Lionheart Swordsmanship, showing perfect compatibility. The last was a 13-year-old boy whose calmness under Dickson’s pressure earned Midi’s approval despite his unremarkable talent.

The five stood in line under the crowd’s envious gaze as Midi addressed them.

"You’ve grasped the basics of Lionheart Swordsmanship in one month. Not bad." Midi flicked his wrist, tossing new manuals containing advanced techniques and insights from various sword masters. The disciples’ eyes lit up with excitement.

"But routine training won’t make you True Experts." Midi’s tone shifted. "Practice, sparring, even duels – they’re just rehearsed performances. Real strength comes from being constantly battle-ready, calm enough to wield your sharp sword perfectly anytime. You need real combat!"

The five exchanged solemn glances.

"Form a team under Peter’s leadership." Midi handed Peter a sealed letter. "You’ll guard the Golden Orchid merchant caravan to the neighboring county town."

This mission served as Midi’s second lesson – true practical experience.

After the Forest of Gran fires, mutated Monsters grew stronger. While major families remained unaffected, small Guilds struggled to transport goods, forced to shrink operations or hire expensive adventurers.

The West Coast’s trade-dependent economy teemed with such small Guilds. Midi seized this opportunity to have Lionheart Arena disciples gain real combat experience against Monsters and bandits while building connections.

This approach also expanded Lionheart Arena’s influence. Traditional methods like arena competitions would’ve clashed with rising rival Zhenlu Arena, causing bloody conflicts that slowed Lionheart’s growth.

Midi’s chosen path avoided direct confrontation – by assisting wealthy but vulnerable factions, he wove an influential network across Faero Bay under the guise of disciple training.

"By your command!" Peter stored the manual, bowed deeply, and departed with his team.

"The rest keep training. Next month’s top five will also get missions and higher-level manuals. Successful missions bring extra rewards. Dismissed."

Midi’s light declaration reignited hope in every disciple’s eyes.

Randall couldn’t hide his worry watching disciples depart for dangerous battles. Noticing this, Midi turned to Dickson with a faint smile. "Your turn next."

"Leave it to me!" The bald man grinned.

Though appearing as five disciples alone on mission, Midi had secretly deployed this expert. Any trouble would meet immediate suppression – the disciples’ "dangerous battle" was but a carefully staged show under Midi’s watch.