Chapter 4: Training and Revelations

  A lot of time had passed, and Ryok’s training was becoming more and more grueling. He had learned to endure pain and push through exhaustion. But one day, while practicing a technique with William, a question that had been bothering him for quite a while suddenly flared up in his mind again.

  “Teacher, tell me, how exactly are the knights’ power levels structured? I know there are different ones, but how does it work?” Ryok paused for a moment, wiped the sweat from his forehead, and looked expectantly at William.

  Without taking his eyes off Ryok, William replied:

  “There are several levels. Every knight goes through different stages in the course of their training, gradually developing their strength.”

  1. Beginner Level (Novice)

  This is the level where a fledgling knight first begins learning the basics. They can't yet use their weapon or strength effectively in combat, but they start mastering basic movements, strikes, and defense. It includes theoretical understanding and some practical skills.

  2. Apprentice

  An apprentice can already perform basic techniques and occasionally handle real threats. They train in reacting to enemy attacks and start using combat moves in actual fights. Their strength and endurance are still low, and they usually train under a mentor's close supervision.

  3. Low-Rank Knight

  This is the first real combat level. A knight here can fight enemies and even defeat weak monsters. Their technique becomes stable, they can confidently wield weapons and perform complex actions like parrying and dodging. They can defend small villages or take part in minor skirmishes.

  4. Junior Knight

  A junior knight masters more advanced techniques and can fight on a higher level. Their strength and agility have significantly increased, and they can use special combat moves at the right moments. They can battle stronger monsters and even lead small squads.

  5. Mid-Rank Knight

  A mid-rank knight is a battle-hardened warrior with solid experience. They can easily deal with strong monsters and dangerous enemies. Their physical conditioning is excellent, they’ve mastered several combat styles and can combine techniques. They’re capable of defending territories and leading groups into larger battles.

  6. Experienced Knight

  An experienced knight has taken their combat skills to the next level. They can fight high-rank knights, their technique and physical power are near perfection. These knights possess exceptional endurance and can strike deadly blows. They can face entire armies alone, protect large kingdoms, and are respected heroes on the battlefield.

  7. High-Rank Knight

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  A true expert in combat. Their power and technique surpass ordinary knights. They can fight the most dangerous creatures without tiring. High-rank knights lead strategic battles, command large forces, and undertake complex missions. Their mastery of combat and tactics is unmatched.

  8. Legendary Knight

  Rare warriors known even in the most distant corners of the world. They can defeat the deadliest monsters and influence the fate of entire kingdoms. Their combat skills surpass most magical abilities. A legendary knight is a leader who can lead an army to victory in the direst circumstances. They become the subjects of songs and legends.

  9. Swordmaster

  This is the peak of martial skill. The knight becomes a true master of their craft, capable of defeating nearly any foe. Swordmasters can wipe out armies with sheer technique and willpower alone. They are the epitome of perfection in the martial arts.

  10. Grandmasters of Martial Arts

  The greatest warriors on the planet. They are not just weapon masters—they are the embodiment of power, capable of changing the course of entire wars. Their strength is nearly limitless, and each strike can turn the tide of battle. Grandmasters are mythical figures, able to reshape the world, defeat the strongest enemies, and serve as unattainable ideals for generations to come.

  “So, I’m at the beginner level now?” Ryok tilted his head, noting that his body no longer felt like that of a novice.

  “No, you’ve already advanced to the Low-Rank Knight level. That’s someone who has mastered the basics and can fight weaker enemies. But you’re still far from a Mid-Rank Knight.”

  Ryok nodded, feeling a surge of determination. He knew the path to the top had only just begun, but for now, he needed to at least reach the mid-rank.

  “I see. So I’m still a long way from becoming a master. But nothing’s going to stop me!” With each word, Ryok’s confidence grew stronger.

  William simply shook his head, a glimmer of respect flashing in his eyes. He knew Ryok, despite his youth, could go far if he stayed this determined.

  ***

  Three Years Later

  Three years had passed. Ryok had changed significantly. He was now taller than average for his age, his body had filled out with muscle, and his endurance had greatly increased. He was no longer the helpless child who had first come here. Determination and confidence burned in his eyes.

  One day, on what he thought was his eighth birthday, Ryok rubbed his eyes and felt a strange sensation. He looked at himself and thought he must be around eight years old. But it never really crossed his mind to confirm. Why not just ask the system?

  He opened the status window and saw the following:

  System: Current player age: 10 years.

  Ryok froze. That was unexpected. His thoughts raced—how had he not noticed so much time had passed? He was nearly a teenager, even though in his mind, time hadn’t seemed to change him that much.

  “What?! I’m 10?! Why didn’t you tell me sooner?!” Ryok mentally scolded himself for forgetting, feeling a bit annoyed the system had never informed him before.

  At that moment, William, as always, stood watching silently, not interfering with Ryok’s thoughts.

  “Why are you so upset? You’re on the path to becoming strong. You have a goal to strive for—your age isn’t that important.”

  Ryok understood William was right, but he still couldn’t help being annoyed. His mind had been focused solely on training, victories, and defeats. He hadn’t thought much about age at all.

  “Why am I just finding this out now?! I thought I was, like, seven at most!” Ryok shook his head, smiling faintly, but deep down he couldn’t shake the feeling that it was somehow unfair.

  He opened the system window again to check his stats:

  System: Player Statistics:

  Strength: 11

  Agility: 11

  Intelligence: 11

  Endurance: 13 (increased through quests and training)

  Looking at the numbers, Ryok felt that his efforts were starting to pay off. But it still wasn’t enough to become a master, and he knew he had to keep training—no matter his age.

  ***

  Training with William became even more intense. The teacher’s blows grew stronger, and Ryok felt each one sink deep into his body. He had grown used to the pain, and even when his body threatened to give out under the strain, he kept standing.

  William was leading him through hell—but it was in this hell that Ryok was becoming a true warrior.

  “I see you’re still standing, Ryok. You never cease to amaze me,” said William, casting a glance at the boy who was barely on his feet, yet still ready to continue.

  “I’ll become a Grandmaster, teacher. I will become stronger.” Ryok felt his resolve grow with every word.