As students began organizing themselves, Ren studied the nearest trees. The mushrooms in his hair pulsed gently, revealing patterns others might miss.
The silk was valuable, yes, but he knew the real treasures lay at the edges of the marked territory, where beasts still maintained their natural behavior, undisturbed by human presence.
'I just need to be careful,' he thought while the mushrooms pulsed softly in agreement. 'And choose the right moment.'
"Now," Zhao spread his wings while surveying the students, his owl's influence making his presence even more imposing.
"These excursions happen only three times throughout the year," the professor continued. "I hope you've paid attention in Professor Song's theoretical classes. Correct identification of valuable materials will be crucial for your success."
A mocking laugh echoed from Jin's group, cutting through the serious atmosphere.
