Chapter 3: Ivywood Girls’ Academy (3)

After Yulia's explanation, everyone roughly understood the situation.

Players were divided into two categories. One category included people like Jack Steele, who were forced into the dungeon as part of the gods' trials. The first-level beginner dungeon was usually not too difficult—one didn't need much intelligence; as long as they didn't court death, they wouldn't die.

The second category included people like Yulia, veteran players who could choose their dungeon and its level.

For example, players who had cleared a second-level dungeon could choose to replay either a first-level or second-level dungeon to practice, gain popularity, and earn the gods' favor. If they were lucky, they could even obtain special items, which was precisely why Yulia had come to this dungeon.

However, second-level players couldn't challenge fourth-level dungeons, so they could only enter lower-level ones. The lower the level, the easier it was to survive. But at the same time, the chance of earning the gods' favor was also lower.

Jack then asked, "What about identity cards? What are those then?"

"That's what I find strange—how could a first-level dungeon have identity cards?" Yulia mused, stroking her chin.

"Players with identity cards receive additional missions, along with new clues and buffs. If their mission conflicts with the majority of the players, then without a doubt, they are the traitors."

A seemingly simple survival game could turn into a game of Werewolf, where players had to not only stay alive but also guard against being murdered. This meant they had to find the players with identity cards, keep an eye on them, or even… kill them.

Bang!

Another body crashed down from above. Since arriving on the fourth floor, these sounds had only grown louder.

Some beginner players trembled in fear, clutching their heads and mumbling, "I don't want to play this game… I want to go home… I want to go home…"

Yulia raised her voice, "For now, let's focus on getting to know each other. Someone might actually know the answers to the test. Even if they don't want to share, I hope they'll consider the group's best interests."

As she said this last sentence, she glanced—intentionally or not—at Rowan.

Just one glance was enough.

Some of the beginner players looked at Rowan with complicated expressions.

Meanwhile, Rowan was fast asleep, his breathing slow and steady.

The beginner players: "…" He can sleep here?

At this moment, a female player suggested, "Yu…Yulia, you said that as long as we follow the rules, we can survive. Could the rules be the school regulations? Maybe there's a rulebook in the classroom—we should look for it."

"That's a great idea!" The other players immediately agreed.

Yulia nodded. "That makes sense. We still have thirteen minutes—let's search for the rules."

"Alright, let's do it!"

With an experienced player leading them, everyone felt relieved. As long as they followed the school rules, they could survive the seven days—this realization lifted a great weight off their shoulders.

Before long, someone found a booklet.

On its cover, four characters were handwritten: Student Handbook.

"We found it! Come take a look, everyone!"

The players were so excited they couldn't contain themselves, chattering away in enthusiasm.

The handbook contained ten school rules, handwritten:

1. No loud noises or running in the hallways.

2. You must wear the school uniform inside the teaching building.

3. After evening self-study, return to the dormitory immediately.

4. Do not enter the third-floor restroom in the west building after 10 PM.

5. Students must work hard; every exam is important.

6. You may switch classes freely.

7. If you feel overwhelmed, you may take certain measures to relieve stress.

8. Do not enter the teachers' office during break time. For academic questions, ask during class.

9. Transfer students from No.1 High School are under special attention—please strive for excellent grades.

10. Homework must be completed.

"This is real! Look at the first and second rules—we've already verified them. These must be legit."

Everyone quickly took out paper and pens, copying down the school rules and memorizing them.

They completely forgot that they had an exam coming up.

For those who weren't young anymore, reviewing for a high school test was pointless. Most of them had already resigned themselves to failure.

When the time was up, Leo began distributing test papers. Everyone received their exam and started writing furiously.

Except for Rowan—who was still asleep.

The exam consisted of eight pages, covering three subjects: Writing, Math, and Biology.

Some players with strong Reading skills nearly broke down upon realizing there wasn't a single Reading question. Left with no other choice, they started writing the essay, hoping to at least earn a few points.

As for the poetry memorization section, most gave up completely. The only poem they could recall was Quiet Thoughts.

Math was even worse. Every question was as difficult as the last question on a high school exam. Even players who had once done well in exams were struggling.

They glanced at the peacefully sleeping Rowan and suddenly felt that his choice wasn't so bad after all.

The exam lasted three hours. When the time was up, Leo personally collected the test papers. Everyone, except for Rowan, had at least filled in the multiple-choice questions.

Before Leo could take Rowan's paper, Rowan woke up, groggily picked up his pen, and wrote down his name. Then, next to the first multiple-choice question, he casually marked C as his answer—a symbolic gesture of participation.

Leo walked over to Rowan's desk. After glancing at his paper, his expression darkened. He lightly tapped on Rowan's desk, as if silently reprimanding him: Take the exam seriously.

Rowan rubbed his eyes, yawned, and stretched, completely unconcerned about the exam.

"Hey, bro, aren't you worried? What if you fail and…" The boy sitting in front of him made a throat-slitting gesture.

Rowan glanced at him. "Of course, I'm worried."

But there wasn't a single trace of fear in his expression—only a hint of teasing amusement.

The boy in front: "…" Are you scared or not?!

"My skill level is what it is. Nothing I can do about it."

Rowan waved dismissively, frowning slightly, as if resigned to his fate.

Before long, Leo finished collecting the exams. As he was organizing them at the podium, Rowan suddenly raised his hand.

"Mr. Carter, I have an academic question."

Leo raised an eyebrow. "Oh? You? You have a question?"

A triple-take of disbelief.

The so-called "academic failure" Rowan remained unfazed by Leo's tone. He took out a pen and paper, putting on a studious expression. "Yes, teacher. May I ask?"

When Rowan spoke the words May I ask? With a hint of pleading in his voice, everyone couldn't help but look at him.

Paired with his striking features, the effect was overwhelming.

The disdain in Leo's eyes faded slightly—perhaps he believed that Rowan truly wanted to improve.

"Fine. Come here. Let me see."