Insect Tamer's Ascension Chapter 499. Field Survival and Expedition Logistics

"I am Talandra Mire. I shall be your professor for Advanced Beast Psychology this year," a professor announced with a neutral expression.

Her appearance was rather ordinary, yet she possessed an undeniable beauty that was not immediately apparent.

Theo, having already changed into his academic attire, arrived promptly for his class.

"During this year's curriculum, our primary focus will be on dissecting the varied responses of different beast types when subjected to stressful situations."

"We will delve into the study of prey instincts, predator instincts, territorial instincts, and pack instincts."

"Beasts exhibit remarkably distinct behaviors contingent on their inherent nature. Some are perpetually marked by fear and anxiety, while others possess an innate rebelliousness. Certain beasts remain bewildered, and a few develop an excessive loyalty that can be detrimental."

"The final category consists of the unstable ones. These beasts do not typically excel as docile companions but possess unique qualities that render them exceptional in combat or support roles. They will fight alongside you, but their taming is never truly complete," Professor Talendra elaborated.

Theo meticulously recorded every detail, even though much of it constituted fundamental knowledge. This was one of the scarce classes that genuinely captured his interest, offering a glimpse into the inner world of his mantis and the underlying reasons for its frequent behaviors.

"We will also investigate the ways in which tamed beasts conceal their discomfort from novice tamers, a prevalent issue among those new to the art of taming."

"In such circumstances, a tamer maintains an unfettered bond, erasing any barriers between themselves and their beast. This constant exposure subjects the beast to the conflicting and intricate emotions of the human. While this exposure can occasionally foster maturity in the beast, more often than not, it begins to feign its true feelings merely to aid its tamer in navigating their personal struggles."

"While the beast's intention in such situations is commendable and should be regarded as a profound honor, the prolonged suppression of these emotions inevitably culminates in pent-up frustration and rage. This, in turn, frequently leads the beast to turn against its own tamer or other humans."

"This course is designed to equip you with the understanding necessary to eliminate such detrimental patterns from your taming endeavors," she concluded, pausing after ten minutes of continuous discourse.

Theo found solace in the fact that he possessed the requisite textbook and that the professor's lecture did not deviate significantly from its content. This would enable him to compile thorough notes at a later time.

"We shall also examine how trauma impacts both tamers and their beasts."

"Furthermore, we will review case studies of beast-related incidents stemming from human misinterpretations."

"Ultimately, each student will be required to produce a case study, utilizing the provided materials and the knowledge imparted in this class. Your case study will specifically address the reasons behind a beast turning on its owner. Success in this endeavor will be the sole determinant of your passing grade for this course."

"Apart from this final assessment, there will be minimal examinations throughout the academic year. The focus will primarily be on explanations and addressing student queries."

The professor's delivery lacked the gentle cadence of the elder who had instructed Material Essence Extraction.

With the comprehensive outline of the course expectations concluded, the actual lesson commenced.

Before Theo could fully register the passage of time, the class had already concluded. The brevity of the session irked him slightly; a three-hour duration would have been far more effective than a single hour where the professor was compelled to repeatedly interrupt concepts, promising their continuation the following day.

The professor departed immediately upon the conclusion of the class, and the students followed suit in quick succession.

This time, the classroom was entirely deserted when Theo began his private study session.

However, his mind failed to concentrate. Every piece of information he had absorbed during the lecture, pertaining to the diverse spectrum of beast behaviors, ignited a fervent curiosity within him regarding the current state of the ants, the spider, the crawler, the silkworms, the small livestock insects diligently tended by the ants, and the solitary scorpion diligently guarding the colony's entrance.

An immense ocean of the unknown still surrounded these creatures, and this newfound information only served to intensify his yearning for further knowledge.

No one paid him any mind as he continued his studies even after the class had ended this time, and before long, Theo departed for his subsequent lecture as the 20-minute break reached its fifteen-minute mark.

The subsequent class was dedicated to Field Survival and Expedition Logistics.

The instructor was a physically robust individual with an intense, almost wild, glint in his eyes. He was clad entirely in a grey uniform, complemented by boots that appeared remarkably sturdy. Various unfamiliar pieces of equipment dangled from the belt encircling his waist, a stark contrast to Theo's usual accouterments.

"I am Velra Dain, and you are now enrolled in the Field Survival and Expedition Logistics class," the man declared in an animated tone.

Despite the smile gracing his lips, his expression remained somewhat stiff, and the untamed look in his eyes conveyed to Theo a sense of profound eccentricity. Theo found himself uncertain of his feelings towards having such an individual as their instructor.

Nevertheless, an undeniable aura of excitement emanated from him, a sensation Theo could clearly perceive."I won't waste your time like those other instructors," he declared, immediately sparking whispers among the assembled students. "In this course, you will acquire practical skills for living, enduring, and even thriving beyond the confines of society." "If I were in your shoes, I would treat this class with the utmost seriousness. Ultimately, these are the abilities that ensure long-term survival." "Over the past millennium, numerous dark ages have befallen us, and it was only those who had already weathered harsh realities that prevented humanity's extinction at the hands of monstrous beasts." "I've already revealed more than I intended. Now, calmly follow me to our primary training grounds. Let's depart!" Just like that, before anyone could even crack open the substantial textbook, they rose, leaving their belongings behind in the lecture hall, and trailed after the unexpectedly animated professor. Before long, they arrived at the academy's periphery, where a small woodland commenced. "Your objective is to construct a camp using your instincts and any existing knowledge you possess. I aim to ascertain how many of you are genuinely equipped for survival... and who will be the first to perish," the man stated, that same wild glint still evident in his eyes. "This session is specifically designated for two hours, rather than the standard one, so take your time, everyone. Best of luck!"