Chapter 20: Journey to the Ghost Forest

It was morning, and the official one-week holiday for Miston City Magic High School had begun. Today marked the start of our team's training in the Ghost Forest. We had agreed to meet at the front gate of the school, as we had a long journey ahead of us to reach Langston City.

Usually, if I wanted to travel to another city like Langston City, I would have to book a train specifically heading in that direction due to the considerable distance from Miston City. However, this time, Anna informed us that she would arrange transportation for us, so all we needed to do was assemble at the school gate. It dawned on me that Anna's family might be wealthy as well, potentially on par with Sarah's family, considering the level of friendship between the two.

When I arrived at the designated meeting spot, everyone except Anna had already gathered. I hastened towards them when I suddenly heard the sound of a vehicle approaching from behind. It was a magic car, but not just any ordinary one—it was a special edition magic car. This particular model had high-speed capabilities, allowing it to traverse cities swiftly. Moreover, it boasted a sturdy magic frame that provided protection against berserk magical beasts.

It was a dream car for many due to its exceptional performance, but there was a catch. The car's production involved intricate techniques and advanced technology, along with the use of rare materials, which significantly drove up its price. As a result, it became a luxury reserved for the upper class.

The car came to a halt in front of me, and when the door opened, Anna emerged. "Anna, you've arrived," I greeted her. Behind me, Sarah rose from her seat and approached the car, also welcoming Anna.

"It seems like I've arrived at the perfect time," Anna said to us after stepping out of her car. It appeared she wanted to say more, but Thomas walked past her and flatly stated, "Let's go."

Anna seemed taken aback by Thomas's disregard. While she was in that state, I quickly followed Thomas and got into the car.

"Both of you!" Anna called out.

"Anna, just ignore them. Let's go, okay?" Sarah intervened, trying to calm her down. Following Sarah's words, everyone boarded the car, and our journey commenced.

After a four-hour-long journey, we finally reached our destination. The journey itself wasn't too difficult, as we followed a well-traveled path, and only a few monsters were spotted along the way. Even if any monsters appeared, the car's defense system swiftly dealt with them, allowing us to continue our journey without much trouble.

As I arrived, my eyes were immediately drawn to the vast forest blanketed in thick fog before me. Though I referred to it as a forest, I could barely see the trees due to the dense fog enveloping the entrance.

At the forest entrance, an army station had been established, and I noticed numerous soldiers guarding the entrance. Their duty was not only to limit access to the forest but also to protect against the monsters that resided within. While such monsters rarely ventured out, if they did, it would result in significant casualties. Therefore, the central government had stationed soldiers at every magical vestige under human control to prevent such tragedies from occurring.

Upon our arrival, Sarah proceeded directly to the guard post and engaged in conversation with the officer on duty. She was asked several questions, and when the officer requested an entry pass, Sarah retrieved four passes from her bag and handed them over.

After obtaining the necessary clearance, we were led to a building where we could change into our equipment. Since most magical vestiges were dangerous, individuals were required to don a magic suit before entering. These suits were specially designed to enhance a mage's spellcasting abilities while providing adequate defense.

Initially, I had assumed that everyone, except me, hadn't brought any equipment. However, I soon realized my mistake upon entering the changing room. Their equipment had been sent ahead of time, explaining why none of them were carrying anything.

"We've arrived. Next, boys and girls will be separated to change our clothes, and we'll meet back here once we're done," Sarah announced before we dispersed to change.

"Okay," Anna and I replied in unison, while Thomas simply nodded his head. We swiftly made our way to the changing room, eager to prepare for our training in the enigmatic Ghost Forest.