The morning sun had just peeked from behind the peaks of the northern mountains, illuminating the spacious courtyard of the Royal Astra Magic Academy with cool golden light.
The atmosphere in front of the main building felt much more lively than usual days.
Dozens of first-year students gathered wearing special field clothing—practical dark-colored robes designed to facilitate movement as well as sturdy boots resistant to friction.
Today was the schedule for their first field practice outside the classroom.
The destination was the Academy Training Forest, a semi-wild forest area located at the back of the academy complex, intentionally maintained and strictly guarded for survival training purposes and the introduction of basic-level magic flora and fauna.
Erin stood at the front row of her students, wearing a dark blue travel robe with her blue hair half-tied so it would not obstruct her vision.
In her hand, she held a simple wooden magic staff with a teak wood handle and a field guidebook.
"Listen carefully, everyone," Erin's calm yet firm voice sounded clearly amidst the murmur of students starting to chat enthusiastically.
"Today we are stepping out of the boundaries of the classroom. Inside the Training Forest, you will no longer rely on theory on paper or the blackboard."
Erin swept her gaze across all the students one by one.
"You will learn to read tracks, recognize the surrounding environment, maintain a safe distance, and most importantly: work together as a group. Inside the forest, personal ego can be the most dangerous thing for the safety of yourselves and your groupmates."