I Become A Mob Character In A Novel

[Samael Ashwood's POV]

(Next day in the classroom)

"Here! Listen here, I have an announcement to make," Professor Lincoln walked into the classroom, his voice booming as he commanded attention. The chatter of the students quickly died down, and all eyes turned to him.

"This year's mid-term exams are turning up, and this time instead of a written test and combat test, the academy council have decided to make it even harder by replacing the combat test with a dungeon exploration test—"

"What!"

"Are you serious—"

"We Can't—"

"We'll Die—"

"SILENCE!" Professor Lincoln released a burst of mana pressure to quiet the uproar from the students. His sharp gaze swept across the room, ensuring that everyone was paying full attention before he continued. "Yes, you heard me right. The combat test has been replaced with a dungeon exploration test this year.

The academy council believes that real-world experience in handling life-and-death situations will be far more valuable than simple sparring matches."

"And since you all are 'elite' students of the first-year batch, You all have to work 'extra' hard since those who fail will be expelled from this elite class and join other standard classes," he added with a smirk, his eyes gleaming with amusement at the visible tension in the room. "This isn't just a test of strength—it's a test of survival, strategy, and teamwork.

So, if you're not up to the task, now's the time to realize that this academy doesn't tolerate mediocrity."

I could feel the atmosphere in the room shift, the weight of his words settling heavily on the students. Nervous glances were exchanged, and the usual confident smirks some students wore were nowhere to be seen. This wasn't just another test; it was a make-or-break moment for many.

I leaned back in my seat, keeping my expression neutral. I already know about this, given the knowledge from the original novel, but it was clear that many of my classmates hadn't. The pressure of facing an unknown dungeon, full of potential traps and deadly creatures, was enough to shake even the most skilled combatants.

"The team will consist of seven individuals, which you all can decide yourself but the leader of the team has to fill out this form which they can ask from me after forming the team. Now any questions?"

A few hands shot up immediately, and Professor Lincoln gestured to one of the students to speak.

"Sir, how will the dungeon exploration be graded?" a nervous-looking student asked. "Is it purely based on how far we get, or will there be other factors?"

Professor Lincoln gave a thin-lipped smile. "Good question. The grading will not just be on how far you progress in the dungeon but on several key aspects: teamwork, strategy, efficiency in handling enemies and traps, and, of course, the successful completion of any objectives given to you inside.

The council will be monitoring your performance closely, so don't think you can simply brute-force your way through."

Another hand went up. This time, it was a serious-looking boy with glasses. "What kind of dangers should we expect inside the dungeon, sir? Are there any specific threats we should be prepared for?"

"Expect the unexpected," Professor Lincoln said with a shrug, though his eyes had a knowing glint. "The dungeon will be randomly generated to include creatures and traps that match your level of ability—but don't get too comfortable. There may be surprises that push you beyond your limits. Treat it as a real-life situation because, in there, your mistakes will have consequences."

The room was filled with nervous energy now, students shifting uneasily in their seats.

I glanced over at my team members. Seraphina's face was calm but focused, while Lily and Liliana both had a fire in their eyes that I knew all too well. Sionna gave me a reassuring smile, her confidence seemingly unwavering, and Raven was already taking notes, no doubt calculating every possible outcome. Eveline simply grinned, looking like she was ready for the challenge.

"Any other questions?" Professor Lincoln asked, glancing around the room.

A hesitant hand went up from a girl in the back. "What happens if... if someone gets seriously hurt inside the dungeon?"

"The academy will have safety measures in place," Professor Lincoln replied, though his tone was more serious now. "There will be healers stationed at the entrance, and emergency teleportation will be available in life-threatening situations. But be warned: using it will result in immediate disqualification from the test. So, think carefully before you rely on that safety net."

He paused, letting his words sink in. "If there are no more questions, then I suggest you all start preparing. The Dungeon Exploration Test begins at the end of this week which leaves five days for you all to prepare."

As Professor Lincoln wrapped up his announcement, the tension in the classroom simmered down but didn't entirely dissipate. Students exchanged whispers and anxious glances, some already strategizing in hushed tones about their prospective teams and plans.

I turned to my teammates, sensing the mix of excitement and concern in the air. "Looks like we've got our work cut out for us," I said, keeping my tone light to ease the mounting pressure.

Lily nodded, her brow furrowed in concentration. "We've already started planning, but now we need to refine everything. Five days isn't a lot of time to prepare for a test like this."

"True," Seraphina chimed in, her voice steady. "But if we leverage each of our strengths effectively, we can create a solid strategy and training plan that fits our unique abilities."

"Exactly," Raven added, her eyes gleaming with determination. "We need to run simulations, practice our combined magic, and anticipate possible enemy types. The more prepared we are, the better we'll perform."

Liliana smirked, her confidence infectious. "And don't forget about scouting the area around the academy for practice dungeons. We can use those to test out our strategies before heading into the real thing."

Sionna's gaze brightened. "That's a great idea! Plus, it will give us a chance to familiarize ourselves with the terrain and refine our teamwork."

"Then let's do it!" Eveline declared, her competitive spirit shining through. "We need to hit the ground running if we want to be at the top of our game."

With the plan forming among us, I felt a renewed sense of purpose. We had our work cut out for us, but I was confident in our ability to adapt and grow stronger together.

"Alright, team," I said, standing taller in my seat. "Let's finalize our roles and set our training schedule. We'll meet after classes to discuss the specifics and head to the practice dungeons."

"Sounds good to me," Lily agreed, a determined gleam in her eyes.

As the bell rang, signalling the end of class, we gathered our things, excitement buzzing in the air. I could sense the energy shifting, a collective determination rising among my teammates.

"Alright, I'm headed to ask Professor for the form to fill out as the team leader," I announced to the group. "I'll meet you all at the practice dungeons after that."

The team nodded in agreement, already discussing among themselves the finer details of our strategy and training regimen. I made my way to the front of the classroom, where Professor Lincoln was now sorting through some papers at his desk.

"Excuse me, Professor," I said politely, waiting for his attention. When he looked up, I continued, "Could I please get the team leader form for the dungeon exploration test?"

Professor Lincoln gave me a knowing smile, handing over the form without hesitation. "Of course, Samael. You seem to have quite the team assembled. I expect great things from all of you."

"Thank you, Professor," I replied, taking the form and scanning it. It outlined the details to be filled in about the team members and signatures for approval. I made a mental note of everyone's names, ensuring that I wouldn't forget anyone. Once I completed it, I'd hand it back to him, and we could solidify our status as a team.

With the form in hand, I turned to leave but paused, sensing Professor Lincoln's gaze lingering on me. "Is there something else, Professor?"

He leaned back in his chair, folding his hands thoughtfully. "Just remember, Samael, that the dungeon isn't just a test of power. It will challenge your wits and your ability to work as a unit. You've done well to form a strong team, but don't underestimate the importance of communication and trust. Every decision you make in there could be the difference between success and failure."

I nodded, appreciating his advice. "I understand, sir. We've already been discussing our strategies and roles. I'll make sure everyone stays on the same page."

"Good," he said, a hint of approval in his tone. "Now go on; your team awaits."

I left his office, feeling the weight of my responsibility as the team leader settle on my shoulders. This wasn't just about me; it was about everyone relying on me to guide them through this challenge. I wouldn't let them down.

As I made my way to the practice dungeons, I spotted my teammates already gathered, their chatter ringing out like a familiar melody. Their spirits seemed high, and it filled me with a renewed sense of determination.

"Hey, sorry about the wait," I said as I approached. "I got the form we need to fill out, and now we can officially register as a team."

Lily clapped her hands together excitedly. "That's great! Let's get started then!"

"First things first," I said, pulling out a pen and handing it to Raven. "Let's fill this out. We need to make sure everyone's names are on it correctly."

As Raven started writing down our names, I scanned the area for any potential distractions. The practice dungeon loomed in the distance, its entrance framed by eerie shadows. It felt foreboding but thrilling all the same.

Once the form was filled out, I signed my name with a flourish, feeling a sense of pride in making our team official. I turned to my teammates, ready to dive into the training session.

"Now, let's talk about what we'll do first. We should focus on how to best combine our magic," I suggested, glancing at each member for their input.

"Why don't we start with an exercise that incorporates everyone's abilities?" Seraphina proposed, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "We could simulate a situation where we have to protect a point while fighting off waves of enemies."

"That's a great idea," Sionna agreed, her enthusiasm evident. "We can take turns being on defense and offense, so everyone gets a chance to practice."

"Sounds like a plan," Eveline chimed in, cracking her knuckles. "I'm ready to set some traps and see how our enemies react."

"Okay, then let's find a suitable area in the practice dungeon where we can set up a mock scenario," I suggested, leading the way toward the entrance. "And I want us to switch roles frequently to get comfortable with each of our skills."

.

..

...

[To Be Continued]

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Stone Me!, I can take it.

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