Gamry firmly grasped his sword. He wanted to at least let that absurd fellow know what effort was like.

While observing the other examinees, the instructor approached and asked Gamry, “Are you all right?”

“I am all right.”

His left wrist was throbbing but adrenaline made it tolerable. The instructor looked at his left hand and the fighting spirit in his eyes and spoke.

“That guy is a pass anyways.”

It was only a single match, but the instructor saw that Alphonso’s level of swordsmanship was not very high. Although it was at best at a middle-level, he was still much better than the idiotic condescending nobles who came each year to take the exam after only having swung a sword a few times. But compared to those that were actually talented in swordsmanship and honed their skills under a teacher, he was really lacking.

Still, the reason for his acceptance was not because his uncle was William. Family nor financial backing was necessary for selecting knights who would protect the empire. It was because of the power that Alphonso showed and his ability to handle mana.

As long...