Chapter Nine, The Shield of Radiance

Ordinary knight? These words caused an uproar among the knights in the classroom. This boy, who looked like he was barely fifteen, was actually a knight? Surely this is a mistake?

Not only Lin Jialu herself, but even Li Xin clearly showed a look of confusion. However, she understood Long Haochen better than Lin Jialu, and after a brief moment of distraction, she had already come to understand.

Lin Jialu curled her lips and said, "So you have this hobby, liking little boys. However, you are much older than them, aren't you? Do you still have any shame?"

Li Xin's anger was clearly becoming uncontrollable. With a twist of her wrist, she drew one of the twin swords from behind her. "Let's go outside. I won't summon the roses today. Let's see what you can do to me."

However, the smile on her face quickly turned into surprise

At the center of the shield, there is a round gem the size of a dove's egg. The gem is a pale golden color. Centered around the gem is an engraved pattern of a sun, with radiating lines extending all the way to the edge of the shield

Li Xin chuckled and said, "What’s wrong? Why are your eyes all red? The little boy is indeed quite sentimental! Let’s go back. You start classes tomorrow, and I still have some experience to share with you."

However, Long Haochen once again astonished everyone present

Li Xin smiled and said, "What is there to thank for? This is something you won on your own. Alright, let me tell you about the precautions to take while studying in our branch hall."

Early morning

Li Xin disdainfully said: "If you have the ability, don't use any magical equipment"

Three-tiered Knight

Li Xin said: "Don't worry about that, just say whether you dare to gamble or not. If you don't dare, then hurry up and get lost, don't affect my mood for eating."

"Miss Xin'er, this is a package sent by my young lady for you." The middle-aged man handed the cloth bundle to Li Xin and turned to leave

Li Xin was astonished by Long Haochen's judgment in the Divine Shield Block. Little did she know that this was all a result of being constantly trained by Long Xingyu. After two hours of practical combat every day, the Divine Shield Block had become second nature to Long Haochen, allowing him to make judgments entirely based on instinct.

Lin Jialu's eyes flickered slightly, "Are you out of your mind?" She vaguely felt that something was amiss. The magic crystal of Jin Yanhui was quite rare, and among the magic crystals of level 5 magical beasts, it was one of the most valuable. Although the Shield of Radiance was good, in terms of value, it was not as precious as this magic crystal. Does she really have that much confidence?

With a loud bang, at the moment the ice ring of resistance appeared, Long Haochen suddenly changed his actions. He stomped his right foot forcefully on the ground, interrupting his charge and bringing himself to a halt, raising the heavy sword in front of him.

"So have you accomplished it?" Ye Hua's gaze swept ominously over the knights

Ye Hua stood in the center of the training ground watching them run, "No one is allowed to fall behind. Anyone who does will have to run fifty more laps. Long Haochen, come here." It was evident that he had learned Long Haochen's name from Nalan Shu.

Yes. Long Haochen stood up again and performed a standard knightly salute to the Chief Instructor

Lin Jialu's defeat greatly pleased Li Xin, who enjoyed a sumptuous dinner with Long Haochen. Although she ordered a lot of dishes, her appetite was surprisingly more astonishing than that of the growing Long Haochen. Under their rapid consumption, they actually finished off the vast majority of the meal.

Previously, Long Haochen had been blocked from view by Li Xin, but at this moment, as Li Xin stepped aside, Lin Jialu finally saw him. Lin Jialu was immediately taken aback by the brilliance before her; Long Haochen's exquisitely near-perfect face, his uniquely rare light golden, clear eyes, and an intangible aura all left her astonished

Ye Hua casually removed his own shield, seemingly indifferent to Long Haochen's use of the Radiant Shield magic. He coldly said: "You may take the initiative to attack"

The leaping Long Haochen descended from the sky, wielding his heavy sword. A faint golden light instantly intensified, transforming into a blade of light one foot wide that sliced through the air.

Returning to the Hall of the Bright Moon, Li Xin directly followed Long Haochen back to his residence

Lin Jialu said somewhat impatiently: "I know already."

Lin Jialu handed her magic wand to the warrior attendant beside her, saying, "Alright, then I won't use the magic wand either. Let me show you my casting speed."

Long Haochen slowly raised the heavy sword in his hand, shook his head, and said: "That may not be the case. Sister Xin'er, is that alright?"

Long Haochen attempted to infuse a bit of inner spiritual power into the shield. Instantly, the sun pattern at the center of the Radiant Shield illuminated, causing a faint golden glow to emerge across the entire surface of the shield. Moreover, there was a return of luminous spiritual power, resulting in minimal consumption for Long Haochen.

This skill is the first ranged attack ability that knights can utilize through their inner spiritual power. Although it consumes the same amount of inner spiritual power as the Daybreak Slash, its power is significantly lower, as the Light Slash Sword is a ranged attack and also a skill that integrates both offense and defense

The three characters "Light Slash Sword" instantly rose in Ling Jialu's heart. This caused the smile on her face to freeze in an instant, and without hesitation, she set up another layer of ice shield in front of herself.

Long Haochen was also taken aback; he did not expect that this Chief Instructor had such a fiery temper

In the moment when Haochen's foot slipped slightly beneath him, a layer of faint golden light suddenly surged from the top of his foot. With a loud crack, the ice layer formed on the ground was unexpectedly shattered by his step, and his body instantly regained stability. Not only did his charging speed not decrease, but it actually doubled, as he thrust his heavy sword, piercing through the ice shield above.

Lin Jialu sneered, "If it weren't for Dad protecting you, I would have turned you into an ice sculpture last time."

The middle-aged man immediately said sternly: "Then what are you still standing there for?"

"Ladies, the Governor and the Chancellor have stated that if you continue to quarrel, you will be placed under house arrest." The two warriors, sweating profusely, stood between the two women, wearing expressions of苦笑 and helplessness.

The shield appears not to be very heavy, yet it emanates a steady aura of light

All rise. Night Hua suddenly shouted in anger

She lost; as a talented magical girl of Haoyue City, she actually lost to a boy much younger than herself. How could she possibly accept this?

Long Haochen's figure did not pause in the slightest; as his feet touched the ground, he charged towards Lin Jialu.

Compared to a year and a half ago, Long Haochen's Divine Shield Block can now be described as perfected. It is important to note that while the Divine Shield Block is powerful, it also demands a high level of timing precision. Its skill effect lasts only for an instant, requiring the most accurate prediction to be effective

The sound of gasping in surprise almost simultaneously escaped the mouths of the two attendants of Lin Jialu. Lin Jialu, who was about to continue casting her spell, was also stunned in place

The equipment storage is located in the basement of the Knight's Hall. After Long Haochen received a set of armor, he couldn't help but feel a sense of helplessness. He was too young, and his physique had not yet fully developed. This heavy armor, weighing over a hundred pounds, could not be considered worn by him; it merely hung loosely on his body. He had to use both hands to hold up the sides to prevent the armor from falling off.

Li Xin let out a light sigh, feeling somewhat embarrassed as she played with her fingers. "It's all my dad's fault for not giving me a bit more pocket money. Otherwise, my sister would have just bought you the equipment directly. There would be no need to think of such a method."

Even though she had always shown mercy and did not use any magical equipment, she still lost despite being a Level 6 Mage of the Third Order

Upon hearing the term "house arrest," both Li Xin and Lin Jialu clearly paused for a moment, and in unison, they let out an angry huff.

In front of the restaurant, there is a designated area for parking carriages. At this moment, there are not many carriages, providing just enough space for them to engage in a duel.

Lin Jialu walked up to the somewhat dazed Xu Tiankong and asked in confusion: "Little boy, do you want to fight me? Then your sister Xin'er is sure to lose."

"What is there to be afraid of? Let's just gamble." In a moment of impulse, Lin Jialu immediately agreed.

After staying in Long Haochen's room for nearly an hour, Li Xin finally left. Through her introduction, Long Haochen gained a much deeper understanding of the Haoyue Branch.

Long Haochen was momentarily stunned, and the next moment, his handsome face instantly flushed bright red

I am lucky? This young lady is already a Level 7 Knight, while someone is still a Level 6 Mage. I wonder who is truly lucky. Aren't we not allowed to fight? Alright! Lin Jialu, do you dare to make a bet with me?

The resistance of the ice ring swept past Long Haochen, but this time he was not pushed away again; instead, a faint golden light enveloped him.

Sister—" Long Haochen called out softly.

Li Xin looked at Long Haochen's composure and determination that belied his age, smiled slightly, and said: "Alright, as expected of my brother. Show her your strength. Lin Jialu, don't cry if you lose."

"This foolish boy," Li Xin couldn't help but whisper. Facing the magician, jumping from a certain distance is just making oneself a target, isn't it? Lin Jialu's ice prison was intended to make him leap; it seems he truly lacks experience in confronting magicians

Xu Tiankong helplessly said: "Miss, let us agree on this: after the duel, regardless of the outcome, you must not quarrel with Miss Xin'er anymore, alright? Otherwise, I will have to report this to the Governor."

With a neat and rhythmic marching pace, Long Haochen accelerated sharply, charging towards Ye Hua like a young leopard. Although his speed was not exceptionally fast, his steps were remarkably steady. His gaze was fixed on Ye Hua, using his extraordinary observational skills to assess the movements of this instructor.

Last night, Long Haochen was able to defeat Lin Jialu not only because the opponent underestimated him, but more importantly due to Long Haochen's precise judgment and calculations, all of which were based on his extraordinary mental strength.

The Hall of Knights is a two-story building, not particularly large. The first floor serves as a place for the Guardian Knights to attend lectures, while the second floor is designated for the Punishing Knights

Like a conditioned reflex, with a swift sound, all the knights rose quickly.

Ye Hua looked at them coldly, "Is this all you are capable of? How have I taught you? As a guardian knight, what is the most important thing?"

On the other side, Li Xin let out a quiet sigh. In her view, Long Haochen, who was already trapped, would undoubtedly be affected by the ice magic, significantly reducing his combat effectiveness. Before he could break through the surrounding barriers, he would likely be defeated by Lin Jialu.

Sister, thank you. Long Haochen said sincerely

As each ice projectile approached within one foot of Long Haochen, they shattered on their own, and the cold air they emitted could not penetrate the golden light in the slightest

Lin Jialu snorted and said, "What are we betting on?"

He thought to himself, can't you all stop this? Why does everyone who sees me think I am a woman? Can't you see that I have an Adam's apple? Is a little common sense too much to ask?

Indeed, as Long Haochen leaped just now, a knowing smile appeared at the corner of Lin Jialu's mouth. Ice balls came rushing towards Long Haochen one after another. She had already shown mercy; otherwise, if the first-tier ice balls were transformed into second-tier ice blades or ice cones, the attack power would be significantly greater.

Upon hearing these words, the knights who were running laps noticeably quickened their pace, and not a single one dared to glance in Ye Hua's direction. However, many of them displayed expressions of pity on their faces

Look at Long Haochen, then look at Li Xin. Lin Jialu lowered her voice slightly and asked Li Xin, "Are you also cross-dressing like her?"

I went to confront Lin Jialu. However, Lin Jialu started arguing with me, calling me a liar and saying I was despicable, among other things. As the argument escalated, we ended up fighting. Since then, our relationship has become what it is now. I don't know who is truly despicable, hm.

Long Haochen quickly stood up and politely performed a knightly salute, "Hello, I am here to audit the Knight's Hall. My name is Long Haochen"

Look, who is that little fellow? Oh, could it be the Shield of Glory? It seems the family is quite wealthy

"Yes, Instructor." Long Haochen rushed to Ye Hua, weighed down by his heavy armor

Li Xin hurriedly said, "Younger brother, stop messing around." She had seen Long Haochen in action and knew that he had considerable practical experience, and his previously tested spiritual power was also quite high. Lin Jialu's two bodyguards were merely newly promoted Tier 3 warriors, and without the support of divine light skills, it would be difficult for them to defeat Long Haochen. However, Lin Jialu was different. She was the renowned genius girl of Haoyue City, known alongside her.

Li Xin said: "What misunderstanding could there be? That boy has disappeared. Perhaps he was harmed by her. Alright, let's not talk about that anymore; I get angry just thinking about those past events. However, although Lin Jialu is annoying, she does keep her word. Haha, this time we've really gained; using the Radiant Shield up to level 5 is no problem at all."

Wow, I'm so full. Little brother, if I eat with you every day in the future, I will definitely gain weight

The Light Slash Sword requires a consumption of 50 points of spiritual power. It is evident that the remaining inner spiritual power of the young boy is already quite limited. If he is charged at and blocked once more, he will have no choice but to concede.

Lin Jialu was taken aback, "Are you mistaken? You let him take action? How old is he? Is he even fifteen?"

Long Haochen stood by silently. Although he was unaware of the conflict between Li Xin and Lin Jialu, he could see that despite their bickering, their words were measured, indicating they were not true enemies. Li Xin had always treated him well, and for the sake of his sister, he found it impossible to refuse.

The metallic clang echoed across the expansive training ground. The perimeter of the training ground measures no less than 200 zhang, and with the added weight of their heavy armor, this presents a considerable burden even for these knights, each possessing external spiritual power reaching 200.

Watching him walk away, Li Xin smiled and said, "I wonder how much Lin Jialu is hurting this time. Her pocket money doesn't seem to be much more than mine, does it"

Long Haochen was startled by his suddenly amplified voice and hurriedly sat down

If Lin Jialu had utilized her magical equipment or had placed sufficient emphasis from the beginning, it would have been nearly impossible for Long Haochen, whose inner spiritual power is greatly consumed due to the fusion of the Spirit Furnace, to be her opponent. Unfortunately, Long Haochen's age is quite misleading, and coupled with the existence of the divine shield, a knight's extraordinary skill, Lin Jialu found herself in a tragic situation

Hmm? Li Xin and Lin Jialu were both taken aback

Li Xin said fiercely: "Last time? How dare you bring up last time? If it weren't for my father and Uncle Lin arriving in time, I would have killed her with one sword strike"

Li Xin said: "Let's go out and fight, so as not to affect others' business. Also, since it's a gamble, we should at least place a bet."

Although Long Haochen's great sword did not actually strike her, the faint aura of divinity allowed her to feel it distinctly

With the divine shield, Long Haochen withstood the resistance of the ice ring without retreating, thus achieving victory in a manner that surprised Lin Jialu

At this moment, Long Haochen was still somewhat unable to recover from the kiss she had given him earlier. Although her cool, smooth lips had only brushed against his for an instant, that sensation was deeply etched in his heart. The warmth of that moment made him feel, for the first time since his parents' departure, a sense of home again. How wonderful it is to have such a sister.

But it was at this moment that Long Haochen suddenly jumped up

This is a round shield with a diameter of approximately 2.5 feet, classified as a medium-sized shield. The entire surface presents a dark silver color, evoking a sense of antiquity and grandeur.

Long Haochen quickly shook his head

However, as the light-blocking sword was drawn, Lin Jialu's face once again revealed a smile. In response to Long Haochen's charge, the resistance ice ring was released once more.

Li Xin said: "Of course! Otherwise, why would I bet with her? I don't want her things. Aren't you going to cultivate as a Guardian Knight? How can a Guardian Knight be without a shield? The standard shields we have in our division are too poor. With this Radiant Shield, at least your defense will be elevated to a higher level"

Long Haochen did not decline; once he regarded someone as his own family, he would certainly not refuse the gifts offered by that person. At the same time, he was also willing to give everything for the sake of that individual

However, one cannot simply enter the Knights' Hall just because they have money. Could it be that they are a relative of some instructor

Lin Jialu disdainfully said, "If you have the ability, don't summon your unicorn."

"Haha, that feels so relieving." As she spoke, Li Xin embraced Long Haochen and gave him a forceful kiss on the cheek.

Li Xinyang proudly said: "How about it? My younger brother is handsome, isn't he? Have you ever seen such a charming young man?"

Li Xin approached and adjusted the metal sleeve on his arm. Inside the sleeve were some intricate metal clasps, which were easily adjusted to the size most suitable for Long Haochen. As a result, when Long Haochen swung his arm, he felt a sense of unity with the shield.

Indeed, no one dared to refute this as the guardians swiftly exited the classroom in an orderly manner

As the knight was about to say something more, a somewhat hoarse voice interrupted, "Class is in session"

"Younger brother, take a look, this is the Radiant Shield," said Li Xin, excitedly unwrapping the cloth package in her hands and presenting the shield to Long Haochen.

Long Haochen's facial muscles twitched suddenly, his forehead filled with black lines, and he frowned as he said: "I am a man"

Puff, puff, puff... A series of collision sounds echoed on the icy dome

Yehua said: "Everyone, go change into your combat gear. Run fifty laps around the training ground. Otherwise, you will not remember the lesson. Immediately, right now."

Li Xin tossed the magic crystal in her hand and coldly said, "If you are afraid, then hurry up and leave. Remember to steer clear of me in the future."

After a simple wash-up, Long Haochen had breakfast delivered by a dedicated staff, a privilege reserved only for the knights, while the squire knights had to go to the cafeteria for their meals. After finishing breakfast, he arrived early at the Knight's Hall.

As the two individuals returned to the entrance of the Knight's Sanctuary, a middle-aged man was respectfully waiting there, holding a large cloth bag in his hands

Long Haochen questioned: "Could it be that there is some misunderstanding? Sister, I think you should have a good talk with Sister Lin."

The golden blade of light almost instantaneously collided with the ice shield, producing a crisp sound. The ice shield shattered in an instant, but the blade of light emitted by the sword was also neutralized.

"You..." Li Xin said angrily: "Just say whether you dare to gamble. To tell you the truth, my brother is also a member of our Haoyue Branch, and he just joined today."

Lin Jialu wore a confident smile on her face, her lips continuously uttering incantations, as a layer of light blue barrier enveloped her. This was a second-tier magic, the Ice Shield.

Yes

Long Haochen, who was pushed out, was momentarily taken aback, thinking to himself that the battle with a magician was indeed different from that with a warrior

"Do you have any questions?" the middle-aged man asked in a low voice

Lin Jialu sneered and said, "Consider yourself lucky"

Long Haochen clearly saw a hint of cunning in Li Xin's eyes. He nodded and said, "Sister, I will do my best"

This time, no one answered

A few people exited the restaurant together. Li Xin held Long Haochen's hand and whispered, "Brother, I’m really sorry for making you take action before we’ve even eaten. However, you must do your best! Sister has her reasons for doing this, so you must win."

Long Haochen was momentarily taken aback

Just at that moment, the hockey puck suddenly sank, striking the ground with a loud bang. A layer of blue aura instantly enveloped an area of two square feet. Meanwhile, Long Haochen's charging footsteps happened to land right on it

The heavy sword pointed forward, gently resting on Lin Jialu's shoulder

The newcomer, my name is Ye Hua, and I am the chief instructor of the Haoyue Branch. No matter how talented you are, once you arrive here, you are just an ordinary knight. If you do not meet my requirements, I will kick you out and send you back to the probationary knights for re-training, do you understand

This is one of the most commonly used resistance skills by ice mages against melee professions. Without a magic staff, Lin Jialu casts spells with such fluidity and speed that she truly deserves the title of a magical genius

Long Haochen's gaze slightly narrowed, and without flinching, he directly faced the ice hockey puck

"Impossible, this is absolutely impossible? Even a fourth-tier profession can only be temporarily pushed back by my Ice Ring of Resistance." Lin Jialu's face was filled with an expression of disbelief as she looked at Long Haochen, her original smile transformed entirely into shock and unwillingness.

The entire classroom was silent, with each knight respectfully gazing at the middle-aged man. Their eyes clearly reflected a sense of fear towards him

Lin Jialu glared at her fiercely, then glanced at Long Haochen, stamped her foot, and said, "I will have someone deliver it later. Let's go." She didn't even eat her meal and turned to leave. Her two attendants, after being stunned by Long Haochen for a moment, finally followed Lin Jialu out.

A faint golden light emanated from Long Haochen's body, spiraling upwards. With his sword held high above his head, his handsome face was further enhanced by a few more divine qualities under the veil of this golden light

"Give it a try." Li Xin handed the Shield of Radiance to Long Haochen

Li Xin pointed to Long Haochen, who had already stood up behind her, and said, "This is my younger brother. I asked him to take my place. You should send someone out as well. If we don't fight ourselves, we won't be confined."

Who are you, aunt? If we're going to gamble, let's gamble. It's just a little boy, right? Xu Tiankong, you go ahead. Lin Jialu did not understand why she and Li Xin were at odds; both of them were clearly unable to withstand each other's provocation.

"Sister Lin, I concede to you." Long Haochen stepped back a few paces, sheathing his sword and standing still

Upon receiving the Shield of Radiance, Long Haochen noticed that the interior of the shield was not merely a simple grip, but rather a metallic sleeve resembling a forearm guard. He extended his left hand into it, and the metallic sleeve felt slightly loose, covering his entire forearm. His palm reached all the way inside, perfectly grasping a metal handle. As a result, the entire shield seemed to fit seamlessly against his arm. Particularly, the faint aura of light provided Long Haochen with a very comfortable sensation. Thus, the entire shield appeared to be completely integrated with his arm, and the subtle essence of light gave Long Haochen an exceptionally pleasant feeling.

Li Xin said: "This Radiant Shield can defend against impacts of up to 300 spiritual power on its own. After infusing it with internal spiritual power, its defensive capabilities will continue to enhance. The radiant spiritual power it emits can block most negative effects of magic, such as the freezing effect of Lin Jialu's ice magic. When used in conjunction with certain skills of the Guardian Knight, it performs quite well. Look at this gem; this is the Gold Fusion Stone. With it, as long as the shield is not severely damaged, it can repair itself. The radiant spiritual power it emits can block most negative effects of magic, such as the freezing effect of Lin Jialu's ice magic. When used in conjunction with certain skills of the Guardian Knight, it performs quite well. Look at this gem; this is the Gold Fusion Stone. With it, as long as the shield is not severely damaged, it can repair itself. Perhaps it is not the strongest shield below level five, but it is undoubtedly the most practical magical shield."

Long Haochen earnestly said to Li Xin: "Sister, my father has told me that practical experience is often more important than cultivation. I want to try fighting against a magician"

The cold notes swiftly escaped from Lin Jialu's lips, and she did not retreat. A faint blue light rippled from her body. With a gesture of her right hand, an ice ball shot directly towards Long Haochen in a flash. The entire sequence took less than a second.

Yes. Long Haochen quickly removed his heavy armor, holding a shield in his left hand and a heavy sword in his right. Practical combat is the best way to enhance combat effectiveness; under sufficient pressure, it can also promote the improvement of inner spiritual power. The key is that he is not afraid of losing; at worst, he can just run a few laps.

Light Slash Sword, a third-tier skill for knights, can be learned by both Retribution Knights and Guardian Knights, requiring a consumption of 50 points of spiritual power. It invokes the power of sacred light to protect the body and condenses it into a blade of light to attack enemies. The attack range is proportional to the knight's own level of spiritual cultivation.

However, even so, the Light Slash Sword is generally a skill that can only be possessed by knights of level 5 or above. As one reaches higher levels, with ample spiritual power to support it, the true power of this skill will gradually become apparent

Li Xin had clearly thought about the wager in advance. She took out a piece of white crystal from her bosom and said, "I wager this level 5 light-type magical beast's magic crystal from the Golden Yan Tiger against the radiant shield of your family's shop."

Ye Hua said lightly: "You are new here, and it is understandable that you do not know the rules. Now I will give you an opportunity. As long as your attack can make me move my feet, you will not have to run laps with them"

Divine Shield. When Lin Jialu used the Resistance Ice Ring for the second time, Long Haochen activated the Divine Shield.

At this moment, Lin Jialu finally breathed a slight sigh of relief, thinking to herself that she had almost fallen for Li Xin's trick. This little boy was actually a Tier 3 knight. If it were Xu Tiankong, he might not necessarily be his match!

Long Haochen stepped out holding a heavy sword. Just as Xu Tiankong emerged from the other side, he turned to Lin Jialu and said, "Sister Lin, I have never fought against a magician before. May I ask for your guidance"

Lin Jialu watched as the Light Slash Sword was blocked by her Ice Shield, and only then did she let out a sigh of relief. She thought to herself, fortunately, this young boy's spiritual power is not too strong; otherwise, this strike would have been quite difficult to withstand. I underestimated him.

The Shield of Radiance is not heavy; with a gentle swing of his arm, Long Haochen immediately took a liking to this shield

At that moment, more than ten ice pillars swiftly rose up around him, blocking all his paths in every direction. The chilling aura sent a shiver down Long Haochen's spine, and it seemed that the speed of the spiritual energy circulating within him had decreased slightly.

Long Haochen turned his gaze towards the podium, where a tall and thin middle-aged man had appeared, carrying a round shield on his back. The middle-aged man's gaze was also directed towards him.

Seeing Lin Jialu's unwillingness and daze, Li Xin was the first to awaken from her shock, laughing heartily: "What do you mean by impossible? It only shows your ignorance. If you can't even defeat my younger brother, how dare you challenge me? Accept the bet and bring forth the stakes"

Although Long Haochen was sitting in the corner, he still attracted the attention of the knights, most of whom were clad in armor and could not help but cast curious glances at him. This was primarily due to his remarkably young age

Long Xingyu once imparted a crucial principle to his son during his teachings: never let your opponent know how deep your resources truly are

"Sister Lin, please." As he spoke, Long Haochen lightly tapped his heavy sword against his right shoulder, performed a knightly salute, and with the tip of his toes touching the ground, charged towards Lin Jialu.

Both Lin Jialu and her two attendants were taken aback. The ability to wield the sacred light inner power is a hallmark of a third-tier knight. Could it be that this seemingly no more than fifteen-year-old boy is already a third-tier knight?

You probably don't know this. I heard from the brother on guard yesterday that our Hell's Rose brought a handsome young man, and I suspect this is the little guy. However, how could the Lord allow him to come here to attend classes

"Sister, what exactly is the conflict between you and that Sister Lin?" Long Haochen asked with some curiosity

Lin Jialu asked, "What do you want to bet on?"

A wave of warmth filled his heart, and Long Haochen truly did not expect that Li Xin's challenge to him, to bet against Lin Jialu, was all in order to find him a good shield

Li Xin snorted and said, "Just mentioning it makes me angry. When we were young, we were the best of friends who shared everything. About five years ago, we both developed a crush on a boy from their Magic Sanctuary. Although he wasn't as handsome as you, he was still quite decent. He had a high level of talent. At that time, Lin Jialu and I were still good friends. After I found out that she also liked that guy, I was prepared to let her have him. But then that boy came to me and said that Lin Jialu was using her family's influence to force him to be with her, and for the sake of his future, he had no choice but to yield. After I learned that she liked that guy too, I was ready to give him to her. But then that boy came to me and said that Lin Jialu was using her family's influence to force him to be with her, and for the sake of his future, he had no choice but to yield. Since then, I have never seen that boy again"

Long Haochen felt as if he had struck an ice wall, and his momentum was immediately halted. However, the ice shield showed large cracks under the thrusting skill, and it seemed on the verge of collapse.

A sudden chill surged up from beneath his feet, and as he slipped, Long Haochen's body swayed, seemingly on the verge of losing balance

On the other side, Lin Jialu was also encouraging her retainer, "Xu Tiankong, that little boy probably has some skills, but you must win. If you win this duel, I will gift you a fine sword when we return. However, remember not to truly harm him."

I will lose?" Lin Jialu shot a glance at Li Xin, and without taking her own staff, she faced Long Haochen empty-handed and said, "Then let's do it.

Although Lin Jialu was taken aback, her spellcasting did not cease. A circle of white ice rings instantly erupted around her body. The powerful thrust propelled Long Haochen, who was merely a short distance away, outward.

Li Xin chuckled, "Little brother, you look so cute when you're shy. It's like you're a completely different person compared to your calm demeanor during battle. Let's go, it's time for us to eat."

"What are you still standing there for? Aren't you one of them? Let's go together," Ye Hua shouted angrily at Long Haochen.

"Yes, please guide me, instructor." Long Haochen felt somewhat unaccustomed to wielding the shield and sword, as he had never used a shield before, which made him feel a bit awkward. However, having a shield was certainly better than leaving his left hand empty. Before arriving at the Moonlight Branch, Long Haochen had decided that he would never easily engage in combat with dual swords; he would only practice the skills of a Retribution Knight during his solitary training.

An older knight approached Long Haochen and gently said, "Young brother, have you perhaps come to the wrong place? This is the Hall of Knights, and the squire classroom is next door." In the eyes of these knights, it was already quite a talent for someone as young as Long Haochen to be a squire.

When Long Haochen arrived, the spacious classroom for the Guardian Knights' lessons was still empty. He found a corner, took off his heavy sword and Radiant Shield, and quietly waited.

The knight was taken aback, seemingly fearful of the owner of the hoarse voice, and hurriedly turned around to return to his seat.

"Calm down." The knights responded in unison.

One after another, knights began to arrive in the classroom. In a short while, the classroom was filled to capacity. Long Haochen counted briefly and estimated that there were about eighty knights present. Compared to the nearly one hundred knights in the entire Haoyue Branch, it is evident that the number of Guardian Knights is significantly greater than that of the Retribution Knights