Chapter 39: The Theoretical Test

Looking at the test tablet, the first question appeared right in front of me. It was the Science of Magic test, designed to assess students' understanding of magic theory. The questions covered various topics, such as the basics of elemental magic, modern magic theories, scientific applications of magic, and more. Students were expected to answer the questions scientifically and systematically, based on modern human understanding.

As I gazed at the question, I took a moment to calm myself before proceeding to answer it. Though I may not appear as such, the truth is that I had already studied diligently for all the subjects in the test. Influenced by my parents, I had harbored a childhood dream of becoming a top-tier mage. To pursue that dream, I dedicated myself to studying tirelessly. Every day after school, I would visit the library and immerse myself in my studies. Over time, it had become a habit that persisted to this day.

Even after embarking on the path of a warrior, I never ceased my studies. I firmly believed that knowledge is power. Although it may not seem immediately useful, who knows what challenges and opportunities the future may hold?

With determination, I answered each question steadily. While it was not an easy task, I maintained confidence in my ability to achieve a passing score. Passing was sufficient for me, as I had no intention of pursuing a career in magic or attending a magic university. My path as a warrior had already been solidified. When I had discussed my future path with my master, he assured me that regardless of the test's outcome, he would guide me to a place where he once studied as a student—a place specifically created to train warriors. Therefore, I did not feel particularly nervous about this test. However, since I was taking it, I resolved to give it my best effort and leave the rest to the results I would obtain.

"It's finally over!" I exclaimed to myself, stretching my body as the last theory test came to an end.

Three days had passed since the start of the theoretical test. Throughout those three days, I had confidently answered all the questions. The way I approached the test left no doubt in my mind that I would pass. If luck was on my side, I might even achieve a higher score if my thoughts had aligned correctly. Regardless, the test was now behind me, and I could finally grant my mind some much-needed respite from all the mental exertion.

As soon as all the students finished, the barrier surrounding us was deactivated, and we were given permission to leave.

"Hey, how do you think you did on the test? I don't have much confidence in my answers," one student asked.

"Well, I can't say I'm overflowing with confidence, but I think I'll manage to avoid failing," another replied.

"Sigh, that last calculation problem was too difficult. Who on earth can answer those questions in high school?"

As I made my way out of the classroom, I overheard students discussing and complaining about the test. It was the usual post-test conversation, with some students feeling satisfied while others lamented their performance.

Today's final test was mathematics. Unlike regular math, math for a mage school was several levels more advanced. One might wonder why the teachers would make the math test more challenging for mages, given that it seemingly had no direct connection to magic. However, that assumption would be incorrect.

Mathematics and magic were closely intertwined. In modern magic, mages no longer relied solely on superstition. Every magic circle and spell was the product of extensive understanding of natural phenomena. As a result, most mages who dedicated themselves to the study of magic also became renowned scientists within the human race.

In modern magic, magic circles were constructed using calculations based on natural phenomena. A single miscalculation could lead to a backlash for the caster. Consequently, mathematics held great importance for students in magic schools. Without a solid foundation in mathematics, progress as a mage would be significantly hindered.

Recalling the last question, I had to admit that it was the most challenging test question I had ever encountered. Awakened students, such as mages, had significantly faster brain activity compared to ordinary individuals. It was said that the brain of a high-tier mage worked a hundred times faster. From this alone, one could infer the incredible speed at which a mage's brain processed information.

Though many students here were only awakened mages and had yet to reach the level of a 1-star mage, their brain activity was still significantly higher than that of an average person and should not be underestimated. Yet, almost all of them complained about the difficulty of the last test, which indicated its true level of complexity.

While I was not a mage, my brain activity was also higher than that of an ordinary person. Unlike mages who unlocked their brain's potential during awakening, I had trained my entire body, including my brain, resulting in my current mental acuity. Initially, I was confident in my ability to answer the questions, but as I progressed, doubt crept in due to the difficulty of the questions.

Reflecting on it now, I doubted whether such questions were appropriate for high school-level students. They seemed more suited for university-level examinations.

"Well, it doesn't really matter to me anyway," I muttered, shaking my head to dismiss those thoughts. The theory test was now behind me, and dwelling on something that had already happened would only burden my mind. Since today marked the beginning of the practical test, I needed to prepare myself accordingly. With that in mind, I exited the room and headed back home.