Chapter 82: Surprising News!
***
"Before the course ends, I have an important announcement to make," exclaimed Emily, her tone serious.
Her words, especially her tone, captured the class's attention.
Satisfied, Emily continued, "I know most of you are already aware, but in two days, there will be an exam."
"However, what you don't know is the context of this exam. It's special and will be different from what you've experienced before."
"This exam, unlike the previous ones, is optional. Participation isn't mandatory, but it is highly encouraged. Those who participate will receive better grades than those who opt out. Additionally, rewards in credits will be distributed based on your performance."
A buzz of chatter erupted in the classroom, but Emily pressed on, unperturbed. "The exam is straightforward. Students from all four years will be deployed to various towns to act as defenders, protecting these towns against beast wave."
At the mention of beast wave, the classroom's chatter grew louder, tinged with unease. An anxious energy filled the air.
It was understandable. Beast wave were no trivial matter. A beast wave occurs when a large number of magical beasts—creatures mutated by mana, far stronger than regular animals and often aggressive towards humans—leave their natural habitats, such as forests and mountains, to attack human settlements.
A visibly worried woman voiced her concern. "We're being sent to face a beast wave? Isn't that like sending us to die?!"
Emily raised her hand to calm the room. "I understand your concerns, but there's no need to panic. The beast wave you'll face aren't like the catastrophic ones you see on the news, where entire towns are razed. These wave are much smaller in scale. Furthermore, professors will accompany each group of students to ensure your safety if the situation becomes dangerous. That said, there is still some risk, which is why participation is voluntary."