Synopsis

The chapter introduces the third round of a screening test, a treasure hunt for mana stones in a forest where candidates will be forced to compete and steal from one another. Meanwhile, the main character consults his familiar, Pepper, to find a specific mana stone. A separate plot line emerges where the character uncovers a conspiracy involving a mage who made a deal for a pagan ritual, which is considered treasonous, and possibly a connection to his mentor.