Near the Imperial University stood the well-known restaurant, Flower of the Pig.0

"I’ll kill them!” Epherene shouted, tearing into her Roahawk. Sylvia watched, finding the sight rather amusing. “I will find them and I will kill them!”0

Epherene’s paper had been torn in half. With so many people around, the identity of the culprit remained a mystery and would likely remain so.0

“Foolish Epherene,” Sylvia said.0

Epherene turned and glared at Sylvia, tears of frustration filling her eyes.0

"Even if you find out who did it, there's nothing you can do. The torn paper won't magically reappear."0

"... Are you here to mock me?" Epherene retorted.0

With a scoff, Sylvia pulled out her own paper. Epherene's face immediately took on an envious look.0

Woooom—0

Sylvia's barrier surrounded the table, protecting the area around them.0

“Assistant Professor Allen didn’t tell us the exam’s time or location. He only said not to lose this paper,” Sylvia stated.0

"... Have you figured anything out?" Epherene asked hesitantly.0

“No, not yet.”0

How this paper related to their lessons remained unclear. Despite the uncertainty, Sylvia had faith in Deculein and his teachings.0

Then how about this, if you don’t know yet…,” Epherene suggested hesitantly, watching Sylvia’s reaction. “Sh-shall we work together? We’ve done group projects before, remember?”0

“Foolish Epherene.”0

“Wh-why? I can help. I placed second, right after you,” Epherene said, putting down her Roahawk, desperation evident in her voice.0

Sylvia shook her head and replied, “You don’t have your paper. I do.”0

“... Well, I know that.”0

“There will likely be more ambushes and sabotage attempts since we still have three weeks until the exam.”0

“Sigh... I really want to cry,” Epherene said, pretending to sniffle as she took a handkerchief from her pocket.0

Epherene wiped...0