As Percy approached the receptionist's desk, Carla offered a welcoming smile.
"Alright, Mr. Parker, your exam room is 211 on the second floor," she informed him, gesturing down the hall. "Take that corridor to your right, and you'll find the staircase leading up. Your examiner, Lucas Bennett, will meet you there shortly."
Percy nodded in appreciation. "Thank you." With that, he turned and made his way toward the designated exam hall, his boots clicking softly against the polished floor.
Upon entering the exam room, Percy was immediately struck by the sheer number of examinees. Rows of long desks were nearly filled to capacity, each occupied by individuals radiating nervous anticipation.
"Seems like adventuring is a popular career choice," Percy remarked under his breath.
Perched comfortably on his head, Beta responded, "Naturally. The financial rewards of adventuring entice many. However, don't let the numbers fool you—most of them won't make it past this first hurdle. The failure rate is notoriously high." Her tone was equal parts factual and encouraging.
Scanning the room, Percy took note of the diversity among the examinees. "Most candidates appear to be in their early thirties, with a few looking to be in their mid-twenties." His keen observational skills quickly categorized the various individuals, instinctively assessing their experience and potential.
After a moment's search, Percy spotted an empty seat at the back of the room next to a hooded figure who seemed disinterested in the bustling atmosphere.
"Excuse me, is this seat taken?" Percy inquired politely.
The figure simply shook their head without looking up, and Percy took his seat without further conversation.
A hush fell over the room as the door swung open, revealing a robust man with a confident stride. His imposing frame and sharp gaze carried an air of authority, yet the easygoing smile he wore softened his otherwise stern demeanor.
"Good day, folks," the man began, his voice carrying effortlessly through the room. "I'm Lucas Bennett, your examiner for today's adventurer registration."
Percy leaned forward slightly, sizing up the examiner.
"Now, let's get straight to it. The written exam will last two hours and consists of 300 questions," Lucas continued. "Your goal? Get at least 50% right, though I'd highly recommend aiming for 75% or higher. The more you score, the better your ranking post-exam."
A murmur spread through the room—some candidates exuding confidence, others already looking uncertain.
Lucas let them process before elaborating, "The exam is divided into three sections of 100 questions each. The difficulty scales with each section, and your performance in one section determines the complexity of the next. So don't slack off early on."
Percy smirked. "Adaptive difficulty, huh? Interesting approach."
Lucas then turned serious. "Now, let's lay down the rules.
Rule Number One: No Cheating.If you're caught cheating, you will be immediately disqualified and banned from retaking the exam for a year."
A collective shift of unease rippled through the candidates.
"Rule Number Two: Manage your time wisely.If you don't know an answer, move on. This test isn't about blind guessing; it's about assessing your foundational knowledge. You won't have time to double back on every difficult question."
Percy nodded in agreement, already formulating his approach. "Sounds like efficiency is the key here."
"And finally, Rule Number Three: Once you submit your exam, there's no going back.Your demonstrated knowledge here is crucial for the next stages of the exam. Make sure you're ready before you finalize your answers."
Lucas allowed a moment for the rules to sink in before concluding. "Now, if there are no questions, we'll begin shortly."
While Lucas continued his briefing, Percy's focus shifted. He let his mana sensitivity expand, subtly scanning the room. The sheer amount of magical energy present in the examinees was fascinating.
"Interesting," Percy thought, analyzing the flow of mana. "I can sense the volume and quality of mana within each candidate. Some have vast reservoirs, but their control is poor. Others have sharp, refined mana, but their reserves are weak."
Beta, noting his observation, commented, "Your heightened mana sensitivity is evolving rapidly, Master. Soon, you won't just see mana—you'll read it like an open book."
Percy smirked at the implication. "Then I guess it's time to put this ability to use."
As he shifted his attention back to the front of the room.
Lucas, standing at the front of the room, adjusted his clipboard before addressing the group. "Alright, let's start with the roll call. When you hear your name, respond with 'Present.' Keep in mind—if you're absent or fail to confirm, the federation won't refund your exam fee. We're treating you as responsible adults here." His voice carried a firm yet neutral tone, the mark of an experienced examiner.
The room rustled with shifting papers and mild anxiety as Lucas began calling names. One by one, examinees responded, their voices a mix of nervousness, boredom, or quiet determination.
Then, as Lucas reached the Ps, he paused for a fraction of a second, his brow raising slightly.
"Ethan Parker?"
Percy, seated near the back, raised his hand confidently. "Present."
Lucas' lips curled into a knowing smirk. "Ah, looks like we have a young contender among us today. Mr. Parker is the youngest examinee in the room. Let's show some camaraderie and not be too harsh on the lad."
A few chuckles rippled through the room, but more than that, Percy felt the weight of condescending gazes turning toward him. He could already read their thoughts.
"A kid? Here? This is a joke."
"Bet he's just some rich brat who thinks he can coast through."
"Damn, if even teenagers are taking the test, maybe I should've studied harder..."
Percy exhaled softly. "They're underestimating me," he mused, feeling the weight of their expectations—or lack thereof.
Perched on his head, Beta leaned closer, whispering, "Master, this reaction was expected. Many of these candidates have tried and failed this exam before. They aren't eager to see someone your age surpass them."
Percy merely smirked. "Then let's give them something to talk about."
Lucas, unfazed by the murmurs, clapped his hands for attention. "Alright, roll call's done. Now, everyone, take out the ID cards you received at registration."
A brief shuffle of movement followed as examinees retrieved their identification. Percy did the same, palming the card and watching as the others glanced around in mild confusion.
"Now," Lucas continued, "throw them into the air."
Several candidates hesitated, but they followed his instructions. A moment later, the room shimmered with magical energy as Lucas raised a glowing hand.
The ID cards froze mid-air, dissolving into radiant wisps of mana before reforming into neatly stacked exam papers on each desk.
Percy blinked. "Huh. Impressive presentation."
Lucas smirked as he surveyed the room. "Your exam begins in one minute. Good luck, everyone—I hope to see many of you in the next phase."
With that, he disappeared in a flicker of light, leaving behind an enormous, transparent clock that materialized in front of the room, counting down from 00:59… 00:58… 00:57…
The instant the timer hit zero, candidates frantically flipped through their exam papers, some scanning for familiar topics while others hesitated, mentally preparing themselves.
Percy, however, took his time. He slowly turned the first page, scanning the contents with an easy confidence that contrasted sharply with the panic around him.
📖 Section 1: Magical Beasts & Monster Encounters
What are the three side effects of exposure to a Three-Spotted Vico-Roumous Toad?What are two critical actions to avoid when encountering a Sabertoothed Hippo-Rancor Deer?If someone falls prey to the Hypoderm Monkey's trickery, what are the first steps to resist its hypnotic influence?
Percy's pen glided across the page effortlessly. His photographic memory, enhanced by Beta's 'Photo-Eidetic Memorization' skill, allowed him to recall every textbook, every lecture, and every field study he had ever read.
Meanwhile, his seatmate—an young man who looked to be in his early twenties—was already struggling.
"Crap! I've barely answered fifty questions, and an hour's already gone by!" he internally panicked, gripping his pen tighter. "At this rate, I won't even get halfway!"
He stole a glance at Percy—only to find his younger seatmate breezing through the test.
His jaw tensed. "What the hell? Is he just guessing?"
🌿 Section 2: Flora Identification & Medicinal Uses
Identify the leaf in the image below and describe two medicinal uses.(Image of a peculiar ripped brown leaf).In the Mirage Sands, describe two flowers found on cacti and defend their identification.In the Whispering Wastelands near the Eternal Frozen Tundra, which flower combats hypothermia and hallucinations?List two emergency remedies using the three flowers depicted in the images below for severe injuries.
Percy kept moving, his mind shifting gears seamlessly. He had memorized plant-based remedies and poisons back in his earlier training, knowing that survival often hinged on such knowledge.
His seatmate was practically sweating at this point.
"I studied, damn it! But I've never even heard of these plants!"
Meanwhile, Percy flipped the page again, unfazed.
🔥 Section 3: Wilderness Survival & Strategy
What methods exist to purify water in the wilderness without modern tools?How do you construct an emergency shelter in a dense forest using only natural resources?What are the basic steps to start a fire in wet conditions?How do you navigate without a compass in dense wilderness?
Percy's smirk widened. "Finally, some actual survival questions."
His experience training under his father's survival drills had made these second nature. He filled out the answers with ease.
Finishing the last question with ten minutes to spare, Percy casually leaned back in his chair, stretching his arms with a satisfied sigh. "Sweet, time for a quick break," he muttered, fully intending to take a quick nap before the exam officially ended.
Meanwhile, the young man seated next to him was drenched in sweat, his fingers trembling as he raced against the clock. "Damn it, only ten minutes left, and I've barely hit 190 questions…" he panicked internally, his eyes darting between the paper and the looming countdown.
His frustration grew as he glanced sideways, catching sight of Percy—calmly resting, completely unfazed. His completed test sat neatly pushed aside, as if the entire exam had been a minor inconvenience rather than a grueling test of survival knowledge.
"Is he insane? Who naps during an exam?!" the young man thought incredulously.
But then… an idea sparked.
With a quick scan of the room, he confirmed that most examinees were still furiously scribbling or clutching their heads in despair. The proctor was absent, and Percy—still asleep—had conveniently left his test within view.
"He breezed through it like it was nothing… That means he knows the answers."
His heart pounded. It was risky. Getting caught meant immediate disqualification, possibly a ban from retaking the test for a year.
But the alternative?
Failing. Losing his entire savings. The shame of returning home empty-handed.
With a deep breath, he made his choice—stealing quick glances at Percy's answers, filling in the gaps where his own knowledge failed.
Just as he finished copying the last one…
The clock chimed, signaling the end of the exam.
A surge of mana rippled through the room as the test papers glowed, locking in their answers before vanishing into golden light.
Lucas reappeared at the front, hands clasped behind his back. "Great effort, everyone. We'll be grading your tests now. Results will be announced shortly. In the meantime, please head to the lounge and wait."
With that, the examinees filed out of the room, some with relief, others with dread hanging over their shoulders.
Percy, however, remained seated, his body still half-relaxed from his nap. As he stirred awake, he blinked groggily. "…Where did everyone go?"
"The lounge," a voice responded.
Turning, Percy found himself facing the young man who had been seated next to him. Unlike before, his posture was more relaxed, though his expression held something else—respect.
"I'll guide you there," the young man offered, his voice more confident now.
Percy studied him briefly, sensing no malice behind the gesture. With a simple nod, he followed.
As they walked down the hallway, curiosity finally got the better of Percy. "How do you think you did?" he asked.
The young man hesitated before giving a lopsided grin. "Not sure. Guess we'll see soon enough."
Percy narrowed his eyes slightly, but before he could press further, the young man pulled back his hood, revealing vibrant red hair with sliver streaks, elongated ears, and a facial structure with an almost regal, angular sharpness with unmistakeable different distinct golden & silver colored iris.
"I'm Nathan Foster. Nice to meet you, Ethan Parker."
Percy's gaze lingered on Nathan's unmistakable elven features—pointed ears, a sharp jawline, and a stature that exuded an effortless elegance.
Before he could comment, Beta chimed in from her perch on his head.
"Interesting. I didn't expect to see an elf here."
Percy raised an eyebrow. "Elf? You mean like Santa's little helpers?"
Beta blinked in confusion. "Who's Santa?"
Percy scoffed, shaking his head. "Never mind. Explain elves to me, then."
Beta gave him an incredulous look. "Elves are an ancient species birthed by the Goddess of Life herself. They once existed in an entirely separate world. Through an event known as theElven Convergence, they merged with this one, establishing their own empire."
Percy's intrigue grew. "So, they're like an old noble race?"
Beta nodded. "They are long-lived beings, deeply connected to nature, magic, and the flow of mana. Their affinity with the elements is unmatched among mortals. Socially, they are renowned for their wisdom but are sometimes viewed as aloof or arrogant by other races."
"Sounds like some of them have a stick up their ass," Percy muttered.
Percy absorbed this, before glancing at Nathan again. "So, what exactly are elves like in society?"
Beta's voice softened slightly. "They are a proud race, and their culture is built on tradition. While they value wisdom and the natural world, their relationships with humans have been… complicated. There have been historical conflicts, leading to lingering prejudices between both races."
Before Percy could respond, Nathan spoke up, his voice quieter than before.
"You're… not disgusted?"
Percy stopped walking, turning to face him fully. "Should I be?"
Percy blinked, caught off guard by the question. Tilting his head slightly.
Nathan's fingers tightened around his cloak. He exhaled through his nose, staring ahead. "Most humans are." his voice controlled but edged with something unspoken. "Elves are tolerated in human society, but that doesn't mean we're welcomed. They either stare too much or look away too quickly. I just assumed…"
Percy interrupted, smirking. "Look, man, I've dealt with plenty of people who didn't like me for one reason or another. Your ears and fancy heritage don't mean anything to me unless you give me a reason to care."
Percy, rolling his eyes. He shot Nathan a sidelong glance, raising an eyebrow. "Besides, your ears look cool. Way better than mine."
Nathan's gaze flickered to Percy's, searching for any sign of deception. Finding none, he chuckled softly, shaking his head.
Nathan's lips twitched, as if suppressing a smile. "That's the first time I've heard that."
"You're a strange human, Ethan Parker."
Percy grinned. "I get that a lot."
"Master, I think you just earned yourself a potential ally." Beta's voice echoed smoothly in Percy's mind, her tone laced with amusement.
"Not bad, huh? He's got the whole 'mysterious outsider' vibe going, but I like him." Percy responded internally, his smirk deepening slightly.
Beta hummed thoughtfully. "An elf hiding his identity in human society? There's more to him than meets the eye."
"Obviously. But I'm not about to interrogate him in the middle of a hallway." Percy shot back, keeping his tone neutral as he glanced at Nathan, who seemed unaware of the silent conversation unfolding.
As Percy absorbed Nathan's words, a thought lingered in his mind. "So, I should treat you poorly just because I'm human?" His eyebrow arched in curiosity, his tone a mix of skepticism and mild amusement.
Beta interjected, her voice calm and precise in his mind. "Master, allow me to clarify. Elves have long been subject to mistrust and resentment from certain human factions. Their longevity, heightened abilities, and deep-rooted traditions often set them apart. Some humans see them as threats, while others, consumed by envy or past conflicts, label them as outsiders undeserving of respect."
Percy processed her explanation before shifting his gaze back to Nathan. "Wait, if elves are often mistreated, aren't you worried about being seen here?" he asked, casually scanning their surroundings.
Nathan shook his head, his red locks shifting as he did. "Not really. Perish City is more accepting of elves compared to other places. I hid my identity more out of habit than necessity. But from what I can tell… you don't seem like the type to judge based on race." His statement was careful, almost probing, as if he needed that reassurance.
"You're right to trust your instincts," Percy affirmed with a small, confident grin. "I don't mistreat people who haven't wronged me. Simple as that."
Nathan hesitated, then, as if reaching a silent conclusion, his posture relaxed. "Actually," he admitted, "Nathan Foster is just the name I use among humans. My real name is Elandil Silimaurë." He let the elvish name roll off his tongue effortlessly. "It's refreshing to meet a human like you, Ethan Parker."
Percy nodded, his grin widening. "Likewise, Elandil." He tested the name, letting it settle naturally before turning toward the lounge area.
Nathan subtly pulled his hood back up as they entered, his usual wariness returning in a room full of people. The duo found two empty chairs away from the more crowded parts of the lounge and sat down.
Nathan hesitated for a moment before speaking again. "Um, Ethan… can I ask you something?"
Percy, initially distracted, turned quickly. "Of course, what's up?"
Nathan leaned in slightly, his curiosity evident. "How did you manage to finish the exam so early? There were 300 questions. Have you been preparing for years?"
Percy scratched the back of his head, glancing away. "Well…" He exhaled lightly, his voice casual but deliberately vague. "Let's just say I study hard." He conveniently left out the fact that his preparation involved an eidetic memory and hours of absorbing knowledge in the Infinite Skills Library.
Nathan didn't pry further, though his expression suggested he wasn't entirely convinced.
The atmosphere grew tense as Lucas Bennett returned, holding an extensive list of names. The hum of conversations quieted, anticipation thick in the air.
"Thank you for your patience, everyone," Lucas began, his booming voice commanding attention. "I'll now announce those who passed. Please line up behind me as I call your names."
Percy listened intently, his name nowhere in the list.
"Nathan Foster," Lucas continued, prompting the elf beside Percy to tense before exhaling in relief.
"And lastly… Abigail Williams."
The moment the list ended, murmurs rippled through the room. Some reacted with frustration, while others slumped in quiet disappointment. Percy, however, sat in stunned silence.
I… didn't make it? The thought was surreal. He knew he had aced that test.
Nathan hesitated before standing, glancing at Percy. "Hey—"
Percy cut him off with a small, encouraging smirk. "Go. You passed, didn't you?" His voice held no bitterness—just intrigue, like he was still piecing things together.
Nathan seemed reluctant but nodded, moving toward the forming line.
As the crowd began to disperse, Percy remained seated, fingers tapping lightly against the armrest. He was about to leave when a new presence approached.
"Excuse me," a woman's voice interrupted his thoughts.
Percy turned, meeting the gaze of a composed, dark-haired woman in a formal uniform. Her posture was too refined, her smile too knowing—this wasn't just some receptionist.
"Are you Ethan Parker?"
Percy's brow furrowed slightly, but he nodded. "Yeah… that's me."
Her lips curled slightly, as if she had expected that reaction. "Excellent. Could you please follow me? You've been selected for the next phase of examinations."
Percy blinked, his suspicion flickering. "I thought I failed? My name wasn't on the list."
Her expression didn't shift. "Actually, your case is special." She adjusted her glasses. "You are the first examinee in recorded history to correctly answer all 300 questions."
Percy stared at her.
Beta whistled. "Master, it appears you broke the system."
The woman continued, gesturing towards a corridor. "Please follow me. We'll be heading to the Physical Examination Room."
Percy inhaled sharply, shaking off his initial disbelief. So that's why my name wasn't called. They probably didn't want to announce something like that publicly.
With a smirk returning to his lips, he stood. "Alright. Lead the way."
As he walked, he heard Beta's teasing voice in his mind. "Master, are you sure you're not secretly enjoying this?"
Percy chuckled to himself. "Not at all. But it's nice to see where I stand."
And with that, he followed her down the hall, ready for whatever came next.