It’s not only the land that’s uncharted: where there’s new territory, there’s sure to be new flora and fauna to catalogue, too! Unknown species await those eager to turn a researcher’s eye upon their surroundings. You’ve been equipped with sleds and carts and horses with which to pull them. Load up your charges with your findings, whether that be clippings or sketches of plants, or critters you’ve lured with a tasty morsel before capturing. However, the Church advises to practice stewardship of the environment, and to not disturb more than is strictly necessary. [ Grants Riding +1 ]

Mercedes carefully adjust the mare’s saddle and bags, unsure if she’s done it correctly. Unlike many of her classmates, she was a novice when it came to riding, although her gentle patience had at least won her the horse’s approval. She slips a sketchbook carefully into one of the bags - hopefully she’d stumble across some adorable critters. Hm, she should probably find a partner.

Having taken too long preparing, it seems the other students had already left. Exhaling, Mercedes realises she’s nowhere near confident or competent enough to go trekking in uncharted land alone. Perhaps one of the professor’s would be willing to help her out instead though. It would be a real shame to miss out on the day’s activities.

Her boots crunch upon crisp, late autumn leaves as she approaches the enigmatic dark magic professor. She’d seen him about once or twice, but most of her classes so far had been faith based. It was only recently she’d had the chance to explore reason magic in her studies too.

“Excuse me, Professor Leo? I hope I’m not being a bother,” Mercedes offers him a polite bow and friendly smile as begins to speak. Her hands still clutch at a clear plastic bag, filled to the brim with animal friendly treats. “Could I ask you to escort me into the forests? I’m terribly sorry to impede but I’m not even sure I saddled my horse up right.”

Beaming from ear to ear despite her self-deprecating speech, she glances at the bag in her hand. With a light giggle, Mercedes looks back at him.

“I brought plenty of snacks for people, too!”