"Now then, I’m sure you’ve all heard the rumors by now, but that time has finally come."
First thing in the morning, Instructor Gray stood before the lectern and made her announcement with her usual blunt clarity.
The moment the words left her mouth, a buzz of excitement rippled through the classroom.
I wondered what was happening. Since I was still poorly informed about the ways of this world, I didn't immediately grasp the significance of her words.
"The practical exercise in Kafka Forest. Some of you may have heard about it from the upperclassmen, but we will be holding it this year just as we always do."
Kafka Forest, huh?
I knew of it. It was a vast woodland located to the north of the academy. Monsters were known to inhabit the area, so an Ordinary rarely ventured near. I had also heard that even sorcerers avoided it unless they possessed actual combat experience. I see. So they intended to use that environment for a practical exercise to gauge the students' true abilities.
Hmm... Perceiving this as something akin to a military drill, I straightened my posture to give Instructor Gray my undivided attention. Given that I was lagging behind the others in this academy, I wanted to at least maintain a proper attitude.
"Let me provide an overview once more. The primary goal of this academy is to cultivate excellent sorcerers. The headmaster hyperbolically claims that eighty percent of the students here will never amount to anything, but even so, this academy requires its students to possess a certain baseline of ability. Looking ahead, you may choose various paths—some might aim to become Magic Swordsmen and join the military, while others might pursue careers as researchers at a university. Of course, it is important to decide on a goal early and focus your efforts on a specialized field. However, during your first and second years, this academy mandates the completion of a common core curriculum. This exercise is a part of that."
I see. I had assumed this exercise would primarily benefit sorcerers who specialized in combat, but perhaps that wasn't strictly the case. It wasn't merely about physical conditioning like a military exercise; it was about nurturing sorcerers from the perspective of holistic education for both mind and body.
I certainly knew many sorcerers who had graduated from academies, and they all possessed a blend of strength and wisdom. Feeling as though I had caught a glimpse of the foundation that built them, I felt a strange sense of satisfaction.
"Here are the details. Kafka Forest is the massive woodland to our north. Many of you are likely familiar with it. To be clear, monsters do appear there, and if you are careless, you run the risk of being killed. There will be backup provided by teachers and High Rank upperclassmen on the day, but you should go in expecting to fight. This is your first taste of actual combat in a lesson, but don't come crying for help. Doing so will reflect poorly on your grades. At worst, failure here could result in you repeating the year."
Instructor Gray began sketching a map of Kafka Forest on the blackboard.
I see... The terrain itself didn't look particularly daunting.
"Your objective is to reach the center of Kafka Forest. The time limit is forty-eight hours. Anything beyond that is a disqualification. Naturally, those who clear the objective will see it reflected in their grades, and vice versa. Now, the catch is that this will be a party-based exercise. You're all in the same boat. If one comrade fails, you all fail. That is the condition under which you will undertake this task. Parties will consist of four people. I will not be assigning them. Team up with whoever you like and prepare for the exercise. I’ll distribute the reference materials now; make sure you read them thoroughly."
The materials were passed back from the front rows.
The documents contained the same points Instructor Gray had mentioned, but with much more granular detail.
—Hmm... I see.
This looked like it was going to be quite enjoyable. I enjoyed my studies, but I certainly didn't mind physical activity either. In a scenario like this, my specific skills would likely be of use.
"The rest of today’s class period may be used to form your parties. You are free to look for partners in other classes as well, as this exercise involves the entire first-year level. Building a network in situations like this is also a vital skill. Now, if you’ll excuse me..."
The moment Instructor Gray left the room, the students stood up as one and began scouting for teammates.
It made sense. Teaming up with the most talented individuals would provide a massive advantage, even if your own abilities were lacking. However, reality likely wasn't that simple. It was hard to imagine the elite students going out of their way to team up with those they deemed inferior. I predicted that the parties would eventually balance out into groups of similar skill levels.
While I was considering my own move, Evi appeared in front of me.
"Ray, let's team up."
"Evi. Are you sure? It is common knowledge that I am not particularly adept at magic."
"Heh. Leave the magic to me. But you're good at moving your body, right? I've seen you during the sword training; you've got some great moves."
"I see... In that case, let's do it."
"Hell yeah!"
He was observant. That was my first thought.
Due to certain circumstances, I couldn't use magic effectively. It wasn't because I was an Ordinary; there were deeper reasons... Because of that, while I struggled with most magic, my other skills remained intact. I could still use specific types of magic, and my physical fundamentals and broader knowledge were still very much a part of me.
They were things I had needed to survive.
I had been holding back during the sword training, but it seemed Evi had a sharp eye for talent. For some reason, that made me feel strangely happy.
"Now then. What about the rest? I imagine a party with the Withered Wizard in it will face some stiff rejection, wouldn't you say?"
"Stop with the self-deprecation. But yeah... Ray, your reputation isn't exactly stellar."
"Hmph. You can say that again."
"Well, it's the truth. But I've got faith in you."
"In what, exactly?"
"That there's definitely something different about you. My sixth sense is tingling."
"Well... to be honest, I have extensive experience in forests and especially jungles. I can distinguish edible plants from poisonous ones. I know how to secure fresh water and how to start a fire. Survival skills are, quite frankly, my specialty. These are techniques I cultivated in the forests of the countryside."
"Oh! I knew it! I had a feeling it was something like that! You understand what this exercise is about, don't you? It's not just about magical prowess. A forty-eight-hour time limit means it's going to be a grueling test of endurance. That's why I figured that kind of knowledge would be crucial."
"Evi. Despite your large build, you possess a remarkably delicate way of thinking."
"Hehehe, right? Hey, wait, the large build part was uncalled for!"
While the two of us were talking, I noticed one particular student looking around anxiously.
"Evi."
"What’s up?"
"How about Elisa?"
"Oh. That sounds like a plan. I’d love to have the superior magic of a Half-elf on our side."
"Then let's go invite her."
"You bet!"
We wove through the crowded, chaotic classroom and approached Elisa, who was sitting on the opposite side. She had been staring down at her lap, but when she saw my face, a look of joy flashed across her features—only to be immediately replaced by a shadow of doubt.
"Elisa. Would you like to join us?"
"Ah... but, um... I’m happy you asked, but... I’d just be a burden..."
"It’s fine. Besides, I’m the Withered Wizard, remember? Based on reputation alone, I’m likely the biggest burden here."
"But... Ray, you’re good at athletics, right?"
"Well, about as much as the average person."
"I think that kind of... ability is needed for this exercise too... but I’m just the worst at everything..."
"Elisa."
"Kya...!"
I firmly raised her downcast face to look at me. Fixing Elisa’s face in place with both hands, I stared straight into her beautiful, shimmering eyes and spoke.
"Listen, Elisa. Humility is a virtue. However, if taken too far, it becomes a poison. You need to have more confidence in yourself. I'm not telling you to be a blind optimist. Just be realistic and keep your feet planted on the ground. Know what you can do and what you cannot do. Then, let your comrades support you where you lack, just as you will support them in turn. This exercise is an opportunity to face yourself. So, let’s do our best together."
"...Ray."
Life gradually returned to her eyes.
The shadow was gone.
It was only a small spark, but I felt as though her motivation had finally been ignited.
"Hehe. Ray’s right! I’m counting on you too, Elisa, and I’ll have your back. So let’s go together!"
"Yeah... thank you, both of you..."
The smile she gave us was undeniably charming. Having secured our third member, I was starting to wonder who our fourth should be... when a literal bolt from the blue arrived.
"Rose-san! Join our group!"
"No, please, join us!"
"Wait, Rose-san! How about with us?"
Amelia Rose, the eldest daughter of House Rose, the head of the Three Great Noble Families.
Her talent was recognized by all. It was only natural that she would be in such high demand. However, she turned them all down and walked straight in one direction.
"I'm sorry. I already have a prior engagement..."
To everyone's shock, she walked right up to the three of us.
"Is there still a spot open?"
"Of course. Your seat has been vacant from the start."
"Fufu. You're unusually motivated today, aren't you, Ray?"
"Having you on the team is quite reassuring. Besides, we’ve assembled the best possible members. It’s only natural to get fired up, isn't it?"
When I flashed her a grin, she returned it with a mischievous, slightly wicked smile of her own.
And thus, our party for the exercise was decided.