"Exactly. Because the academy's training methods, equipment, instructors, and limited seats all come at a price.
You tell me, why would someone take that risk and waste months trying to earn a free entry when they could simply pay ten thousand gold coins and secure a place immediately?"
Alucard took another bite before continuing.
"And if their child performs well and passes all the tests, they can compete for the academy's prizes."
"Prizes?" Daniel asked, his interest piqued.
"Yes." Alucard smiled. "The first prize is one hundred thousand gold coins."
Daniel's eyes widened slightly. "One hundred thousand…? You're joking, right?"
"Do I look like I'm joking with you?" Alucard replied, taking another bite of his flatbread.
Daniel gave him a skeptical look before turning his attention back to the parchment. "But it doesn't say that here. It only mentions ten thousand gold coins for third prize."
