Aetheric Chronicles: Reborn As An Extra

Chapter 74: Practical Test [1]

I finished my meal quickly, eager to head to the practical test venue and put my skills to the test. Aria followed suit, and together we left the cafeteria and made our way to the designated area.

The practical test would take place in a simulated artificial Ruin, where we would have to navigate through various obstacles and challenges. It was designed to assess our ability to apply the knowledge we had learned in class to real-world situations.

As we arrived at the test venue, I could see other students gathering outside, their expressions a mix of excitement and apprehension.

"Alright, everyone," Maunt called out, his voice carrying over the chatter of the students. "Please form groups of five, and we will begin the practical test shortly."

Group of five? That's easy then, don't I already have a team?

I thought to myself and looked around to search for my team members. Coincidentally, the three were already together, waiting for me.

"So, we need one more person to make five?" I asked them. "Did you see Max?"

"Hmph, that bastard refused himself if he comes back begging later, I won't agree to it." Lila was quick to reply as usual.

"He said he already had friends to team up with," Ardel explained the true reason. Well, it's better if he isn't here for me anyway.

But, that still doesn't solve the issue, we need to find another person now.

Hmm? Why is she coming toward me again? I thought as I spotted Aria walking toward me. This is happening often today, right?

However, it seems I was overthinking a bit.

"Can I join your team?" She asked as soon as she came over. So she just wanted to join our team.

I glanced at Aria, surprised by her request. It wasn't like her to seek out others for teamwork, but I supposed she had her reasons.

"Sure, you can join," I replied, gesturing for her to stand with us. "We could use the extra help."

Aria nodded, a small smile playing on her lips as she joined our group. Lila looked at her with a mixture of reluctance and curiosity, while Ardel seemed a bit intimidated by her presence. Kairen, as usual, remained quiet, observing the situation.

After everyone finished forming groups, instructor Maunt announced the rules of the test.

"The practical test will consist of navigating through a simulated artificial Ruin," Maunt explained, his voice echoing in the open space. "Your goal is to reach the end of the Ruin while overcoming various obstacles and challenges along the way."

He gestured to a large, imposing structure that resembled a crumbling ruin, complete with fake vines and rubble. "This is the simulated Ruin. Inside, you will encounter traps, puzzles, and simulated monsters that you must deal with using the knowledge and skills you have learned in class."

"As you progress through the Ruin, you will be scored based on your teamwork, problem-solving abilities, and combat skills," Maunt continued. "Your final score will determine whether you pass or fail the test."

The students nodded, some looking excited while others appeared nervous. I felt a mixture of both, eager to put my training to the test but also anxious about the challenges that lay ahead.

"Each group will have one hour to complete the test," Maunt added. "If you encounter any difficulties, you may use the communication devices provided to call for assistance."

"And finally... Those who enter the top three will receive great rewards."

With Maunt's instructions given, the anticipation in the air grew palpable as each group prepared to enter the simulated Ruin.

"Now, you may start." After the announcement, groups started entering the Ruin one after another.

"Let's go," I said and led my team to the Ruin.

As we passed through the entrance, a strange feeling enveloped me and the surroundings went black.

The next second, I found myself standing in the dimly lit courtyard of what seemed to be an abandoned castle. The air was thick with an eerie silence, broken only by the faint rustling of leaves and the distant echo of our footsteps on the cobblestone ground.

"This place gives me the creeps," Lila muttered, her voice barely above a whisper.

"It's just a simulation, remember?" I reminded her, though I couldn't shake the feeling of unease myself.

Aria glanced around the courtyard, her eyes narrowing slightly as she assessed our surroundings. "We should stick together and proceed with caution," she suggested, her tone serious.

I nodded in agreement, and the five of us moved forward, keeping close to one another as we explored the castle.

We quickly spotted and approached the entrance to the castle.

"Halt," I muttered as a group of eight Armor Guards appeared in my sight. They seemed to be guarding the entrance.

"We will ambush them. But try keeping your strength. This is just the beginning."

The group nodded in understanding, and we quickly formulated a plan. Ardel, I, and Kairen would take the front line, engaging the Armor Guards head-on, while Lila and Aria provided ranged support from behind.

With the plan in mind, we quickly took action. Surprisingly, we finished them in just ten seconds, or maybe they were too weak.

"Let's go."

I said as I opened the large black iron door.

The door creaked open, revealing a dimly lit corridor lined with torches. The air was heavy with the scent of dust and decay as we cautiously made our way inside. Each step echoed off the stone walls, adding to the ominous atmosphere of the simulated Ruin.

As we proceeded deeper into the corridor, we encountered various obstacles and challenges. Hidden traps lurked around every corner, forcing us to stay vigilant and rely on our instincts to avoid danger. Ardel's keen reflexes proved invaluable as he deftly disarmed several traps that threatened to ensnare us.

Finally, after what felt like hours of navigating through the labyrinthine corridors of the Ruin, we reached the central chamber. The room was vast, its walls adorned with ancient tapestries and crumbling statues.

At the center of the chamber stood a pedestal, upon which rested a gleaming artifact—a crystal orb pulsating with a faint, otherworldly light.