The day had finally arrived.
Ren rose before dawn, his mushrooms pulsing with anticipation while he packed the last supplies in his specially compartmentalized bag. The morning air was crisp, carrying the earthy scent of dew-dampened soil through the open window.
The final gathering exam with Zhao wasn't just an academic test for him; it represented a unique opportunity to obtain more materials for his projects.
With luck, this time he could acquire many more tentacles.
Isaac had kept his word. The weapons were ready on time, each piece crafted with a precision that exceeded even Ren's expectations.
The spear was a masterpiece of artisanal engineering. Its tip, formed from the treated material, gleamed with a tone between amber and steel. The white bow, crafted from cartilaginous marine beast bone, tensed perfectly with the black Sarracenia string, the entire weapon balanced and responsive in his hands.
When he said goodbye to Isaac after collecting them, the few students who crossed his path looked at him with expressions ranging from mockery to a kind of condescending understanding.
"Look at the mushroom boy," he heard one mutter. "Needs traditional weapons to compensate."
"I've heard rumors he became a double tamer," commented another, his voice laden with skepticism. "But if that were true, why would he still have those mushrooms on his head and carry primitive weapons?"
Ren simply continued on his way, ignoring the comments. Unlike many of the rich or noble students at this school, he didn't measure his worth by others' opinions. Each decision, each action, had a specific purpose in his plans.
Upon reaching the meeting point where the caravan waited, Ren found Min and Taro already prepared, their bags packed and their expressions mixing excitement with nervousness.
"Ren," Min called to him, pointing toward a group of adults. "Lin is coming with us this time, we are so done..."
"Not just her," Taro added in a low voice. "Wei, Yang, and several more professors. There's even new people who seem to work for the castle."
Ren studied the scene. Indeed, the group's composition was radically different from the previous expedition. The presence of so many instructors and guards suggested an unusual level of caution.
"I guess it's normal," he commented, adjusting his weapons. "There was an attack last time. They're probably taking additional measures to protect the princess."
"They're not just looking after me," Larissa's voice sounded right behind him.
Ren turned to find not only Larissa, but the entire group of noble cousins with their companions. The twelve girls, now much more openly united than before, formed a semicircle around him.
"Interesting choice of equipment," Luna commented, gesturing toward the spear and bow. "Not what I would expect from someone with your... knowledge."
"I think the perception of weapons is mistaken... they're tools and each one has its purpose," Ren responded simply.
"We're eager to accompany you in the gathering," Liora added with a small smile. "We want to know how it will be different from when we're in the depths."
Ren nodded, observing how the rest of the students organized themselves into groups. Unlike the last expedition, the atmosphere was completely different. Klein and Jin remained apart with their group reduced from 15 to only 9 people, now avoiding any direct confrontation with Ren.
It was surprising how the dynamics had changed. The usual taunts, the provocations to gain popularity at his expense, all that had disappeared.
Not even with Ren carrying weapons... they didn't dare to openly bother someone who had the support of more than half the class, over twenty people, including the noble cousins.
He also noticed he was no longer perceived as the inconvenience who had reduced a three-day trip to just two. Now he was someone everyone wanted to approach for advice.
It was... refreshing. Not having to constantly defend himself. Being able to simply exist and share knowledge without fear of reprisal.
"Attention everyone!" Zhao's voice resonated above the conversations. "Gather for instructions."
The students congregated around the professor, who had climbed onto one of the carriages to be more visible, his beast partially manifested, creating the impression of keen eyes that missed nothing.
"The final gathering exam has simple rules," Zhao began, his authoritative voice gaining everyone's immediate attention. "To pass, each student must individually collect values equivalent to ten thousand crystals."
A murmur ran through the group. It was a considerable amount, especially for first-year students with little experience.
"The professors will evaluate both the quantity and quality of the materials," Zhao continued. "It's not just about accumulating common materials, but demonstrating discernment in selecting valuable resources."
His eyes scanned the group, briefly stopping on Ren before continuing.
"This year, due to exceptional circumstances, we will have additional security. Don't be alarmed by the presence of so many adults; they're here to ensure the experience is safe and productive."
Zhao made a significant pause.
"Also," he added, "I want to clarify that division of the main group will not be permitted. You may work in small teams within the designated territory which will be larger this time, but no one should move beyond the established perimeter. This is for everyone's safety."
Ren exchanged glances with Min and Taro. Last time, he had strayed considerably from the group. This time, with so much surveillance, it would be more complicated to explore freely.
"Finally," Zhao concluded, "remember that although this is an exam, it's also an opportunity to learn. Observe, experiment, and above all, stay alert. The gathering territory, as you realized on the first trip, can be as generous as it is dangerous."
With those words, Zhao gave the signal to board the caravan. The students began climbing into the vehicles, organizing themselves according to the professors' instructions.
While waiting for their turn, Lin approached Ren's group.
"This time I won't miss the action," she commented, studying the weapons Ren carried. "Interesting choice by the way."
"They're just complementary tools," Ren explained, his fingers tracing the smooth contours of the bow.
Lin nodded, a small smile forming on her lips. "I'm intrigued to see how you'll use them. And also how you'll handle your new... popularity."
She discreetly pointed toward where a group of students observed Ren with evident curiosity, their whispers barely audible over the general commotion.
"I'm not seeking popularity," Ren responded sincerely. "Just doing my thing."
"I know," Lin placed a hand on his shoulder for a brief moment. "Those things you carry will help reduce that popularity. But I think those things are part of what makes you... interesting."
With those words, she headed toward the main caravan, where Yang and Wei were already organizing the students.
As the caravan began to move, marking the official start of the journey, Ren couldn't help but reflect on how things had changed in such a short time. From being an outcast with an apparently weak beast, to becoming someone whose opinion was valued and sought after.