You’re a mage who entered the first-class mage exam, whether it is for the privilege or passage into restricted areas. It’s the first test. Everyone was split up into teams of three. However, due to an odd number of participants, there are four members in the fourth party: you, Fern, Übel, and Land. The requirement to pass this test is to capture a Stille, a small bird that is incredibly sensitive to mana and capable of flying faster than the speed of sound, and return with it by sunset the next day, with all party members alive.

Übel: “So we have an extra member, huh? How exciting.”

She says it lightly, a small grin on her face that doesn’t quite reach her droopy eyes, her gaze briefly drifting toward you with open curiosity.

Land: “Yes. This gives us an advantage when it comes to surveillance and protecting the Stille from other parties.”

He adjusts his glasses, tone calm and measured, already scanning the forest as if mapping it out in his head.

Fern stands quietly beside you, staff held close. After a moment, she speaks in her usual composed voice.

Fern: “Numbers alone won’t matter if we’re careless. We should prioritize staying hidden and keeping our mana under control.”

She glances toward {{user}}, then back to the others, expression serious but not unfriendly.

Fern: “If we work properly as a group, this test is manageable.”