I Don't Need To Log Out

Chapter 122 Battle Synergy

When they entered the forest, the air seemed to grow heavier.

The rustling leaves and occasional gusts of wind were the only sounds, creating an eerie stillness that made the players glance at each other uneasily.

"This place is... quiet," Maria murmured, her voice barely above a whisper.

"It's supposed to be," Alia said, leading the way confidently. "The forest is enchanted to keep distractions to a minimum during lessons. It's also a way to heighten your senses—keep your focus sharp."

As they walked deeper into the woods, the trees thinned out, and they found themselves stepping into a large, sunlit clearing.

In the middle of the opening stood several groups of academy students, each wearing the distinctive uniforms of Cardon Academy.

At the center of the gathering was a Fhrem, a race known for their tall, willowy frames and silvery, almost metallic skin.@@@@

The Fhrem's piercing eyes locked onto the group as they approached.

"Alia," the Fhrem called out in a melodic voice, "are these the guest students?"

"Yes, Professor Elwyn," Alia replied, her tone respectful. "Nine of them in total."

Professor Elwyn's gaze swept over the players, his expression calm but curious. "Welcome to the Cardon Academy," he said, his voice carrying effortlessly across the clearing.

"Professor Orlen has already spoken to me about you. When I heard you were all Maguses, I assumed most of you would be mages. But..." his eyes lingered on their stances and weapons, "...I see that isn't the case. No matter. This will be a team lesson."

The players bowed slightly and thanked him. They were doing their best to act the part of Maguses.

Since they were humanoid, or directly human, they could only introduce themselves as Maguses.

Otherwise, their camouflage as guest students wouldn't be realistic and their true identities would be discovered.

Elwyn continued, "Today's lesson will focus on teamwork. We'll form three-person groups, mixing our students with you to ensure a diverse learning experience.

First, I'd like our guests to form two-person teams among themselves, and then we'll assign one of our students to each group."

The players exchanged glances, already aware of how this would play out.

Arlon sighed inwardly, wishing he could just wander the forest alone with June. This is exactly what I wanted to avoid, he thought, his expression remaining neutral.

But as much as he hated the attention, he knew he couldn't navigate the forest without help.

Elwyn raised a hand to restore order. "Enough. We'll settle this fairly." He scanned the group, his gaze landing on a blonde-haired Magus who had remained quiet amidst the chaos.

"Mei," he said, "you'll join Arlon and June's team."

The girl stepped forward, her blue eyes sparkling with curiosity. "Understood, Professor," Mei said, bowing slightly.

The disappointed murmurs of the other students faded as Mei took her place beside Arlon and June.

"Great," Elwyn said, clapping his hands. "Now that the teams are finalized, let's move to the next stage. Your task will be explained shortly. Follow me."

---

The group trailed behind Professor Elwyn as he led them deeper into the forest.

The dense canopy above cast speckled shadows on the forest floor, and the occasional rustle of leaves made the players jumpy.

Evan nudged Zack, his voice low. "Man, this place is kind of creepy. You think they've got anything bigger than summoned creatures in here?"

Zack shrugged. "I'm more worried about tripping over a root than fighting some fake monsters."

June, walking a few steps ahead of them, suddenly slowed her pace and turned around with a sly grin. "Speaking of worries, Zack, I think it's time we addressed something."

Zack raised an eyebrow. "What are you talking about?"

June's grin widened. "Remember the tournament? Specifically, the bet we made?"

A visible wave of dread passed over Zack's face. "Oh no. You're actually going to cash that in now?"

"Absolutely," June said cheerfully. "I've been saving this for just the right moment."

The rest of the group perked up, curious. Even Alia, walking near the front, turned her head slightly to eavesdrop.

"So... what do you want me to do?" Zack asked cautiously, his eyes narrowing.