A wave of murmurs spread through the training ground.
Even those who had only caught fragments of what happened now stared openly at Desther. Some looked shocked that the quiet young man at the back had suddenly earned such words.
Others looked unconvinced, as though they could not accept that someone so inconspicuous had hidden that much skill.
Desther himself, however, did not react much. His face remained composed, almost too composed for a boy receiving praise from a teacher of Hector's stature.
That, more than anything, made Hector's curiosity grow.
"I have taught many students," Hector said. "I have seen those with decent talent, those with rare talent, and those who worked hard enough to force their way upward despite lacking both. But what I saw from you just now..." His eyes sharpened. "That is worth cultivating properly."
He placed one hand behind his back.
"If you are willing, I would like to mentor you personally."
The training ground fell silent.
