Chapter 556

It had to be said, being able to live on grass was indeed an enormous advantage.

A few days later, when the technical school announced its admissions list, Hops returned to the school. Aside from his clothes being a little more worn than before, he looked quite energetic, his complexion even rosy and glowing.

Having sensed the Divine Tree's abundant life energy, he had simply spent the past few days living beneath it, eating wild grass from the ground and leaves blown down by the wind. Once full, he either practiced martial arts or sat in meditation.

Though neither his martial arts nor magic was particularly impressive, Hops did know both. In the past, he had lived with his tail tucked between his legs; even if he knew how, he had not dared practice much. Now that he was free, he could train however he pleased.

He did not know whether it was because the environment suited him or because his state of mind had changed. In any case, he found that his training results had improved dramatically. Especially while meditating, he could clearly sense the presence of natural magic. Sensations that had once been hazy and indistinct now became crystal clear. Nature's power flowed around him, seeming to enter his body with every breath and leave him brimming with vigor.

(If only I could have done this a few years earlier!)

Hops thought so, but he knew it was nothing more than wishful thinking.

What was past was past. What he needed to do now was become a good worker, earn money to support himself, never again live by watching other people's expressions, never again hesitate and cower before every step. He would be an upright man, head held high and chest thrust out!

The past few days had