Challenges of the Aether: Call of the Abyss

Chapter 20: Beyond The Classroom

When I woke up that morning, a wave of soreness washed over my body from yesterday's training. I managed to roll out of bed and go to the bathroom to prepare for class. Upon emerging, I found that Sylvia had left me a cup of tea with a note.

"I noticed you were still in the bathroom when I got up, so I made you a cup of tea. I've already headed to class for today, so take it easy and enjoy the tea."

I poured the tea into my flask, gathered my belongings, and set off for class. As I entered the classroom, Scarlet approached me with a warm smile.

"Good morning, Rune. How are you feeling today?"

"Good morning, Scarlet. I'm not feeling too bad, just a bit sore from yesterday's training."

"Well, I'm glad to hear you're doing better."

At that moment, Mr. Wylkes walked in and instructed everyone to return to our rooms and pack a bag with two days' worth of clothes. He assured us he would provide further details once we regrouped.

When we regrouped, Mr. Wylkes informed us that a special training exercise was planned to test our survival skills and teamwork. We would be dropped off in a clearing deep within the woods and required to rely on our l abilities as a group working together to survive the elements and challenges we would face.

As I looked around, I noticed that some of my classmates were visibly excited about the prospect, their faces bright with anticipation. Others appeared more uncertain, their expressions reflecting a mix of apprehension and curiosity. Despite these varied reactions, it was certain that we couldn't get out of this trial.

After he explained the situation to us, he guided us outside where a line of sturdy, horse-drawn carriages were waiting. As we approached, the horses whinnied softly, and the carriage drivers tipped their hats in greeting. We each climbed into the carriages, stowing our backpacks carefully underneath our seats.

The landscape outside the carriage windows gradually shifted from the bustling streets of the capital to a large forested area, it was around two hours until we reached a small clearing. The journey was peaceful, offering us a moment of calm before the challenges ahead.

Once we arrived at the training site, we disembarked from the carriages and gathered around as Mr. Wylkes began to unload the equipment provided by the school for our training. He laid the items neatly on the ground for us to see.

The assortment of gear included two sturdy forester axes and a double-edged saw. Next, he distributed two fishing poles, complete with line, We were also given a compact water filtration system to ensure we had clean drinking water, along with several pots and pans for cooking.

In addition to these items, Mr. Wylkes handed out a comprehensive first aid kit, prepared for any emergencies that might arise. A large, twenty-gallon water container was also included. To complete the setup, he unloaded fifteen two-man tents, ensuring that everyone would have a comfortable place to rest.

With that, Mr. Wylkes took his leave, reminding us to enjoy the next few days and encouraging us to pay close attention to our surroundings. As he departed, we were left to explore and familiarize ourselves with the area.

As we took in our training site, we observed a gently flowing river nearby, its clear waters sparkling in the sunlight, allowing us to see fish swimming around. We were surrounded by a dense forest of oak trees, their strong, sturdy wood ideal for building fires and crafting essential tools.

Scarlet quickly took charge, organizing us into three distinct teams to efficiently set up our base camp. She assigned the first team with the task of gathering food, ensuring we would have enough supplies for the days ahead. The second team was responsible for securing water and starting the fire, both crucial for our survival and comfort. Meanwhile, the third team was designated to set up the tents and handle any other essential tasks required to establish a functional base camp.