Hacking the Game Didn't Go as Intended [Part One]

CHAPTER 42: Mental Attacks

"That was pretty impressive," the male Beastkin remarked, his chest puffed out confidently while his legs trembled like leaves in the wind.

It makes sense that they'd still be terrified, Daisuke observed calmly. They almost got beheaded, and that jerk was pretty serious about doing it too. After all, this is just a game.

What Daisuke failed to factor in was that the Wolfkin, in reality, was still affected by his own Intimidate skill but attempted to conceal it. Everyone did.

"T-Thank you," stammered the girl, her face blue. "Y-You really saved us back there."

The healer tried to force an appreciative smile while hugging his staff tightly, but it was hard to summon any gratitude when his life had just flashed before his very eyes. His complexion was as pale as a sheet of paper.

Daisuke brushed aside their presence, even as Osten shot him a fierce scowl. However, Zephyr's furry head popped out of his shirt with a friendly "Arf," almost as if greeting them on his behalf.

Color returned to the girl's face, and her eyes widened and glittered like stars. But before she could ask to pet him, the ambiance of the classroom changed as two individuals with a distinct presence entered.

Daisuke watched as the trio shuffled back to their seats. Normally I would be upset that Zephyr caused a scene, but I can't complain since I got a pretty great skill in return. Still, he surreptitiously stole a glance at Osten and his party. I have a feeling this won't be the end of those three.

"Settle down, everyone," a commanding voice resonated from the front of the classroom. Its owner, a middle-aged man with blond hair, exuded an air of authority. "My apologies for the delay. I am Baldin, the Guildmaster. Since I've kept you all waiting, let's get straight to the matter at hand.

In light of the increasing number of casualties among young adventurers, the guild has decided to implement significant changes to our screening process for new applicants."

Whispers fluttered through the assembly.

"From what I've heard," said a youth to another in a hushed tone, "quite a few poor children have joined the guild only to get gobbled up by monsters."

"Even if the children are from the slums," said another, "I can see the guild's competence being called into question if enough of them are killed."

Reflecting on the challenges he faced in Dusthaven, Daisuke furrowed his brow. He had serious doubts that the deaths of impoverished children were the driving force behind this reform.

It was probably triggered by some economic or political agenda, or perhaps due to the injury or death of a noble's child. Daisuke found it bewildering that individuals as young as twelve were considered adults in this world.

Though, I guess I shouldn't be surprised since this system is derived from the ancient customs of the real world.

"Adventurers play a vital role in our society," the Guildmaster continued with conviction. "They are the impenetrable towers standing between us and a world overrun by chaos and monsters.

As the monster population and the threat they pose continues on the rise, the guild has taken it upon itself to ensure that every adventurer is not only capable of defeating monsters and surviving in the wild but also contributing as well-rounded members of society.

Allow me to introduce Professor Liam Michael Bayley," he said, gesturing to the older gentleman beside him who offered a polite wave. "Professor Bayley will be conducting a written examination covering language, arithmetic, deduction, and analytical skills to assess your educational level.

Afterwards, you will then undergo a practical and field test. Based on your performance in these examinations, you will be placed into classes suited to your academic aptitude.

You may also recognize some familiar faces among your homeroom teachers as our clerks from the front desk will be leading these classes."

"Really? That's awesome!" — these and similar comments echoed among the students.

The Guildmaster raised his hand, stilling the crowd. "This part is crucial, so pay close attention: adventurers who perform poorly on this examination will be required to enroll in the guild's academy until they demonstrate readiness for independence.

We understand that many of you are the primary breadwinners for your families and must work to make ends meet. With that in mind, everyone will be assigned to arranged parties while completing manageable quests assigned by designated guild clerks.

Yesterday, we had you all seek accommodations at local establishments, but the construction of the dorms was officially completed today. You will now be assigned rooms for the duration of your lessons."

Several hands shot up.

"Please, go ahead," the Guildmaster encouraged.

"What happens if we don't perform well and also refuse to enroll?" a female adventurer inquired.

"It's not compulsory to undergo the screening or enroll in the academy, but if you're found unfit to be an adventurer, your ID... in other words, your license, will be revoked."

Another young girl raised her hand.

"Yes," the Guildmaster acknowledged.

"What if I want to retake the exam after receiving training from a personal trainer?"

"That's acceptable, but there will be a fee for retaking the exam."

"And what about the dorms?" a young man inquired. "Is boarding free?"

"No," the Guildmaster replied.

And there it is, Daisuke mused, a frown creasing his features as his expression grew lethargic. There's no way they're just helping people out of the goodness of their hearts; there had to be an incentive—and, of course, it all came down to money.

Guildmaster Baldin raised his hand again, hushing the animated crowd. "A small fee will be deducted from the proceeds whenever you complete a job. These funds will be utilized to cover food, lodging, and the operational costs for the academy. If that is all for questions, then I will hand you over to Professor Bayley.

Oh, just one more thing," he added, his sharp gaze settling on Daisuke almost immediately. "Haxks, I received your recommendation from Thalia. It's always a pleasure to encounter individuals with such sharp minds."

The man's words were sincere, but as his aura reared its head like a venomous snake, it became quite clear they were laced with something entirely different. But against the targeted waves of bloodlust, Daisuke returned his gaze unflinchingly.

DING!

[You were subjected to a mental attack. Αφινίτη's Blessing has countered the threat and preserved the sanctity of your mental state.]

"Oh-Oh?" the Guildmaster stroked his chin in amusement before taking his leave.

"Eh?"

"What was that all about?"

"Do they know each other?"

Osten clenched his  teeth in irritation as the entire class cast curious glances toward Daisuke. Even Professor Bayley couldn't resist stealing a curious glance before here introduced himself and initiated the examination.