Anyway, let''s go. It''s getting let for Nova Academy Isabe." Lucas said to Isabe and started to walk toward the teleportation portal.


    However just as taken a few steps he found himself rooted on the spot. Turning his head back he found that Yato had ced his hand on his shoulders and he couldn''t move from his grip.


    "Where do you think you are going?"


    "T-To Academy, Master."


    "Oh! no, you will not go there. instead, you will be going on a training trip with me."


    ''WHAT?''


    "What? A training trip?" I eximed, ncing between Yato''s determined expression and the uncertain faces of Isabe and Dereck.


    Yato''s grip on my shoulder tightened, and he spoke with an air of authority, "You have much to learn, Lucas. The academy can wait. Real-life experiences shape a true sorcerer."


    Isabe looked concerned, "But, Lucas, what about your studies at the academy? It''s essential for your growth."


    Dereck crossed his arms, assessing the situation. "Yato, he needs a proper education. Going on a whim is not the way to nurture his potential."


    Yato, however, remained steadfast. "He will learn more from practical experience, facing challenges beyond the academy''s walls. Trust me, Dereck, this is the path to unlock his true potential."


    Feeling torn between the two perspectives, I hesitated. "Master, there are going to be mid-term exams after two weeks from now on! I have to prepare myself."


    Yato smirked, releasing his grip. "Lucas, I heard you took the first-ranked in the written exam. So I don''t think you would have any problem this time around either and trust I will drop you off before the exam starts anyway."


    That''s true but I was using my knowledge as an author to pass the written test. I still have to


    prove my practical skills and the mid-term exams include practical demonstrations, not just written tests. I tried to express my concerns, "Master Yato, I appreciate the opportunity, but the academy is crucial for a well-rounded education. I can''t neglect it."


    Yato, however, remained firm in his decision. "Lucas, the real world is the best teacher. Practical experience will supplement your academic knowledge. Don''t worry; I''ll make sure you''re back in time for your exams. Consider it an extended field trip."


    Dereck chimed in, "Yato, I understand the value of real-world experience, but education is a bnce. He can learn from both the academy and your guidance."


    Yato raised an eyebrow, considering Dereck''s words. "Bnce, you say? Very well, Lucas, here''s the deal. We''ll embark on this training trip, but we''ll make sure you return for your mid-term exams. Agreed?"


    I sighed with relief, grateful for thepromise. "Agreed, Master Yato. I''ll make the most of this opportunity and ensure I''m back for the exams."


    Isabe, who had been anxiously observing the conversation, spoke up, "Lucas, take care of yourself. And don''t let Master Yato lead you into too much trouble."


    Yato chuckled, "I make no promises about trouble, but I''ll ensure hees back in one piece."


    Saying that Yato walked toward two guards and told them the ce we had to go. After a few seconds, he returned to me and said, "Let''s go. Everything is set."


    I just nodded my head and started to walk to the Teleportation portal. Just as we reached the portal I asked the Wu that had been bugging me for a while.


    "By the way master where we are going anyway?"


    "Western mountain range," Yato replied, a hint of amusement dancing in his eyes with a subtle smile on his face.


    "I– Wha– Huh?!" I stuttered in shock, struggling to form a coherent response.


    Collecting myself, I took a few deep breaths to regainposure before politely voicing my concerns. "But, master, I didn''t pack anything."


    Yato chuckled lightly. "We''re going there to train, not for a fancy outing, Lucas. Your current attire is perfectly suitable."


    For reference, I was wearing casual dark jeans pant and a ck tee-shirt.


    "I''m not talking about my outfit, master!" I eximed, frustration evident in my voice as I clutched my head in vexation.


    "I mean, I didn''t pack any supplies like food and other essentials! And isn''t the Western mountain range known for its cold temperatures? I''ll freeze to death in these clothes!" I added.


    And what do you mean ''what I''m wearing is fine,'' huh? I look fabulous even in these simple clothes!


    Hearing my words triggered a mischievous smile to appear on Yato''s face as he looked at me, finding this situation amusing.


    "Oh, believe me, you''ll be fine," he replied, his tone teasing.


    "..."


    Seeing Yato''s amused expression, I couldn''t help but feel a mix of confusion and frustration.


    "Master, I understand the importance of practical training, but a little preparation wouldn''t hurt, right?" I tried to reason with him, hoping to appeal to his sense of logic.


    Yato, however, seemed unfazed. "Lucas, true training involves adapting to unforeseen circumstances. Consider this a lesson in resourcefulness and survival."


    As he spoke, I couldn''t shake the feeling that he enjoyed putting me in these unexpected and challenging situations. It was like a test of both magical and real-world skills.


    Isabe, who had been quietly observing the exchange, couldn''t hold back a smallugh. "Looks like you''re in for an adventure, Lucas."


    Dereck, on the other hand, maintained a stern expression. "Yato, ensure his safety. I won''t forgive you if anything happens to my daughter''s friend."


    Yato saluted yfully. "You have my word, Dereck. We''ll be back before you know it."


    Right on cue, a shimmering distortion appeared in the very fabric of space within the frame of the imposing Teleportation Gate.


    "Let''s go," Yato beckoned before heading straight for the portal in space, which was emitting a bright bluish-violet hue.


    As he effortlessly walked through the portal and disappeared into thin air, I couldn''t help but release a resigned sigh.


    as I approached the portal, a gust of chilly wind emanated from its depths, causing a shiver to run down my spine.


    Yup, I was going to freeze if I were to cross this gate. But I don''t see any other choice.


    With some hesitation, I also walked past to transportation gate.


    As we emerged on the other side, I found myself in a vast, snow-coveredndscape surrounded by towering mountains. The chill in the air cut through my casual attire, and I couldn''t help but shiver.


    "Wee to the Western mountain range, Lucas. Our training begins here," Yato dered, his eyes sparkling with anticipation.


    I took a deep breath, trying to brace myself for the challenges ahead.