Abigail Nightwind choked upon hearing Ren's statement.
What Ren had said was reasonable. However, as an elite mage who was born into one of the major families of the Empire, she believed that she held the authority to dismiss Ren.
The view of an orphan could not possibly compare to hers. Strength was everything in this world.
"Listen up, class! Aspiring for grand dreams is commendable. However, failing to recognize one's circumstances is the height of foolishness. Just because some of you share a classroom with nobles doesn't mean your starting points are identical. This academy was originally established to categorize all magic cores and their magical effects for research purposes. It is thanks to the Empire's generous policies that some of you even have the opportunity to study here without paying a single dime. I urge each of you to possess self-awareness and a certain degree of manners. Commoners will always be commoners. Instead of indulging in impractical daydreams, it might be more beneficial to invest your time elsewhere so that you can make a living in society."
With a cold demeanor, Abigail Nightwind stated as she scanned the classroom before fixing her gaze on Ren.
Her words were so hurtful that it made students who were dressed poorly hang their heads in shame, their faces flushed red with embarrassment.
In contrast, the faces of the nobles instantly brightened up. With their chests puffed out, they exuded pride and arrogance.
Abigail Nightwind closely scrutinized Ren's expression after concluding her speech. She was hoping to see Ren's embarrassment, however, things did not unfold as she expected.
There was not a hint of discomfort shown on Ren's face. Instead, Ren displayed only composure and maturity—qualities not commonly associated with a young teenager.
"Miss Nightwind, if you genuinely hold the belief that a person's achievements are determined at birth, then how about having a bet with me?"
"What kind of bet?" Abigail Nightwind inquired with her arms crossed and chest puffed. The action accentuated her already firm breasts, and combined with the black stockings she wore, she was a stunning woman capable of arousing desires in everyone.
However, that was the least of Ren's concern.
"Donovan Acker and I will engage in a duel at the academy's training ground one week from now. If I lose to him, I will withdraw from the academy and commit to working for you for the rest of my life without any compensation. However, if I emerge victorious, you must fulfill one request of mine without the option to refuse. What do you say? You can either display your pride as a mage or hide behind your nobility, like most nobles tend to do."
The drastic changes displayed by the once cowardly and timid Ren left everyone in the class momentarily speechless.
Everyone was taken aback at the bet that Ren was proposing.
However, before long, the noble students in the class erupted into laughter, unable to contain themselves.
In contrast, the commoners and lowborns shook their heads silently, convinced that there was no way Ren could emerge victorious in a duel against Donovan.
"Hahaha! That weakling must have lost his mind!"
"I can't wait to witness how Donovan tears him apart in the duel!"
"Come on, Miss Nightwind, please agree to the bet. There's no way Donovan could lose to him!"
Although Donovan Acker was placed last in the class in written theory tests, he was ranked first in practical exams of the entire cohort.
With a Rank B magic core that has a high affinity for the prized Metal element, enabling him to summon multiple swords and manipulate them with his will, it would be a one-sided slaughter.
Without waiting for Ren's consent, she grabbed his wrist and began infusing her mana into him. After confirming that Ren's mana fluctuation matched that of a Rank G magic core, she finally agreed.
In her mind, she had already decided how she would be using Ren as a guinea pig for her magical research.
"It's a deal. I will handle the academy's side. I hope you will put up a good fight at the very least."
"Since you have agreed. I hope you won't regret it!" Ren smiled as he dislodged the pencil in his palm without breaking a sweat. Disregarding the glares of everyone, he proceeded to exit the class.
He needed to gather the resources to evolve his magic core within the week, and lingering in Zenova Junior Academy was a waste of time to him.
"Hey, lowborn! I'll give you credit for managing to piss me off! But don't you worry too much about the duel, I'll go easy on you. You know how kind I am, right? I'll turn this duel into a memory you'll remember for the rest of your life. Because during the duel, I will make sure to cripple your legs so that you won't be able to walk again! Hahahaha!"
Faced with Donovan's taunt, Ren simply ignored him and left. With his fist clenched tightly, he made a promise to himself inwardly with a cold expression as he exited the class.
'One week from now, I will make sure you will beg me for mercy.'