From what Raze had learned, members of Pagna typically refrained from meddling in human affairs. It was only the high-ranking officials or those particularly irked who would intervene. Hence, the recent attack baffled Raze.
"I honestly don't know," Sonny replied, releasing a deep sigh. "There's a lot happening right now that we don't understand. Even though the Red Brigade controls this area, it's challenging to monitor everything."
"Look, I know you want answers, but don't even think about seeking revenge. An ordinary person like you wouldn't stand a chance against a Rank 1 Pagna warrior. Remember, you have a sister to take care of."
'Revenge!' thought Raze. 'Why would I care about a family I have no connection or memory of? The only people I want revenge on are the Grand Magus.'
Sonny was already halfway out the door, clearly pressed for time, so Raze didn't press him with more questions. He could either ask next time they met or do his own research.
Returning to Mr. Kron, Raze was introduced to the other temple occupants. Four were his age: three boys and one girl.
The first to catch Raze's eye was a dark-skinned, curly-haired boy with an incredibly goofy smile named Simyon. He seemed genuinely pleased to have new companions.
Next were two boys: a shorter one with a handsome face and good build, reaching only to Raze's shoulders, named Gren. He seemed annoyed to be summoned for no apparent reason.
Beside him were twins, one male and one female, Biyo and Giyo. They were identical, except for their hair length. They politely introduced themselves but seemed indifferent.
The remaining children were much younger and greeted Safa and Raze with broad smiles, waves, and bows.
After the introductions, everyone resumed their tasks. Safa continued cleaning the ornaments and floors before sweeping outside. She was paired with the twins for cleaning, the main chore here. Raze was assigned to help prepare food and was instructed to shadow Simyon.
Entering the spacious kitchen, which resembled a canteen capable of serving hundreds, Simyon lifted a large basket of potatoes and slammed it onto the table.
"Alright, just follow my lead, and I think you'll get the hang of it!" Simyon grinned.
They washed the potatoes, removed certain roots with a knife, peeled them, and tossed them into another basket. Simyon monitored Raze closely and was somewhat surprised.
"Man, you peel those potatoes even better than me! How did you learn to use a knife so well?" Simyon inquired.
"I lived alone for a while and learned to cook for myself. I've been doing this for a long time," Raze replied.
"A long time? Aren't you my age? Were you peeling potatoes since you were three or something?" Simyon joked while continuing his work.
Raze had answered automatically and realized he might have revealed too much. The children were unaware of his backstory, but kids being kids, they would inevitably ask all sorts of questions. Currently, Raze was supposed to have lived with his family, not alone. He needed to ensure his story remained consistent.
"You must have had it rough too, huh? Don't worry, everyone here has had a hard life. But don't stress too much; we're in a good place," Simyon reassured.
Raze recalled Sonny mentioning they were safe here, all thanks to Mr. Kron.
"Is it because of Mr. Kron? Is he a Pagna warrior too?" Raze asked, wanting to gauge his surroundings and potential threats. With his current strength, he might not even defeat a rank 1 warrior.
"Ha!" Simyon chuckled. "I guess you haven't heard; you did just arrive, after all." He glanced around to ensure no one was eavesdropping. "Rumors say that Mr. Kron used to teach at the Pagna academy."
"The academy? There's a Pagna academy?" Raze raised an eyebrow. Sonny had never mentioned it, but it made sense since Raze wasn't initially a warrior.
Simyon was so shocked he dropped a potato he was peeling. Before it hit the ground, he kicked it back up, catching it, although now it was covered in dirt.
"What rock have you been living under? How do you not know about the academy?" Simyon asked.
Raze pointed to his head.
"I… don't have many memories. Something happened to me before I came here." Raze tried to pull a face that made it look like it was a difficult subject to talk about. That way he could avoid more questions. "Could you explain the academy?"
The topic seemed to excite Simyon, he placed the potato down along with the knife as he swung his arms as he explained away.
"The Pagna academy is the place for anyone aspiring to make a mark in this world," Simyon elaborated. "There's one in each faction, including here in the dark faction. It's a school funded by all the clans in the faction."
"It began as a way for the clans to nurture promising fighters, and its success ensured its continuation. Clan members send their children to the academy, but it's also open to those not affiliated with any clan, offering a stepping stone into the world of Pagna.
"Upon graduation, other clans would eagerly recruit you. Joining the academy isn't mandatory to become a Pagna, but for those like us, without a clan or access to cultivation techniques and skills, it's the only path to becoming a warrior!"
Simyon's voice quivered with excitement, unable to contain his enthusiasm.
The mention of the Pagna academy reminded Raze of the Mage academy. Although he was told he lacked magical talent, he ultimately proved everyone wrong.
He even secured a respected position within the Mage academy, despite never being a student.
'Those... memories... are ones I don't wish to relive,' Raze reflected.
"However, not just anyone can join the academy. You must at least be able to cultivate your Qi and demonstrate a rank 1 basic skill to a certain standard."
Many unfamiliar terms were used – Qi, basic skills – but Raze doubted Simyon could adequately explain them. He found written explanations in books easier to comprehend.
"That's why we're fortunate to have Mr. Kron. He teaches us for an hour every day. Thanks to him, we all have a chance to become Pagna warriors!"
Raze examined his hand as he clenched it into a fist. He had harmed many with his magic, but had he ever physically hurt someone?
Memories of the assassin he killed flashed in his mind. He certainly had used his hands back then. There was no doubt about that.
'I guess he was the first. I wonder if this body is capable of performing these martial art skills. I guess I'll find out today.'