Chapter 200

Kana arrived early in the copper classroom, the breeze of cold morning air lingering around her as she settled into her usual spot. She didn’t bother to wake Suri, who was likely still half-asleep after staying up late—probably because of patrol duty. It didn’t matter. The space was perfect for her morning routine, a quiet sanctuary to perform her stretches and work on the progress of her [Bolt Dagger Style]. She was curious—what perks awaited her once she unlocked the next traits?

One by one, the students trickled in, their footsteps echoing softly on the wooden floor. First was Roy, slipping in with a nod. Then Andel, who greeted Kana with a quick wave and a smile. Rin entered next then Boris, Adam, and Toby followed, each taking their seats with quiet familiarity.

Unusual visitor, but they were used to her, Yuri stepped into the classroom, her bright energy filling the space. She approached Kana, holding out a small, worn out ring. Her expression was uncertain—she cleared her throat softly. “Uhm… I tested it for a bit, but I don’t really know its function, I was just a bit curious. Nothing else really.” she said, holding the ring out like an offering.

Kana smirked, eyes glinting with mischief. “Of course. You’ll never know. It’s just a simple ring,” she replied, voice light but edged with teasing.

Suddenly, the air filled with tension. Every student turned to stare at Kana—an unspoken question hanging in the silence. The ring was a prized possession, something they’d all worked hard to obtain. To hear her say that it wasn’t special at all?

She was planning to test it tonight from the nearby dungeon and used the benefit given to her by the king. Kana forced a grin, trying to diffuse the tension. “I was just jesting. All I can say is that this is a very powerful ring.”

Yuri forced a nervous laugh, scratching the back of her head. “Uhm… I also wanted to tell you that my parents want to invite you over this weekend.”

Kana blinked, curious. “What’s the occasion?”

Yuri puffed her chest proudly. “They passed the adventurer guild exam. They’re now certified bronze class adventurers.”

A genuine smile crossed Kana’s face, pride swelling within her. She felt a strange sense of ownership—like she’d helped raise them, in a way.  Well. She was. “Alright, we’ll visit. And a warning—prepare lots of food. You know Suri.”

Rin almost laughed as glanced toward the door, “Speaking of the devil gluttony.”

Just then, Suri hobbled into the room, hunched over and clutching her stomach. She looked exhausted but determined. “Good morning. My stomach’s not feeling great today,” she muttered, her face pale.

Rin moved quickly to her side, guiding her to sit. “I told you to stop eating midnight snacks,” she said softly.

“I can’t help it,” Suri replied, grimacing. “I felt hungry after that damn late assembly… and I somehow stayed there for hours longer than I should have. Professor Len is so talkative these days.. should we find her a husband?”

Kana swayed her head. Suri was serious about getting Professor Len a husband.

Rin giggled,”I know the professors who are single.”

Yuri glanced at the tower clock outside, voice brisk. “Oh, I might be late for our first class. Just tell her about it,” she said, then hurried toward the door, already moving.

Suri looked around, blinking slowly. “What did I miss?” she asked, voice a little groggy but curious.

The classroom settled into a quiet hum, the morning light filtering in through the windows, casting a warm glow over friends caught in their routines. 

…..

When the last class ended, Kana weaved her way through the bustling hallways of the academy, the scent of parchment, ink, and polished wood filling the air. The corridors were alive with students hurrying to their dorms or somewhere to relax, but she was toward a familiar door—the entrance to the student council room.

Pushing open the heavy wooden door, she was greeted by the chaos inside: scattered parchment, half-filled scrolls, and a faint smell of burnt ink. At the center, Elle York sat amidst the disorder, her sharp eyes darting over a pile of disorganized papers. As Kana stepped in, Elle looked up and offered a smile.

Seated around the room were the other council members—some leaning back lazily, others with sharp focus. 

Valdis, leaning against a table with crossed arms, smirked at her arrival, clicking his tongue dismissively. “As expected of the most important person,” he quipped, voice dripping with sarcasm. “She arrived late.”

Kana was surprised Valdis didn’t suffer any mental disorders from Suri’s attack in the annual tournament. Was that a good thing? She muttered,”Looks like Suri didn't do enough.”

Valdis glared was about to say something—

Elle York cleared her throat, standing with a commanding presence that immediately drew attention. Her voice was calm but firm, echoing slightly in the cramped space. “Since everyone is here, I’ll brief you on the new mission—an assignment from Principal Light.”

She paused, scanning their faces. “There have been reports of missing children—not just from the Slums, but from commoner districts and noble estates. Our task is to assist with night patrols, moving in groups to limit their captors’ options and to gather information. The royal knights are now involved, so this should wrap up within a few days.”

A murmur of acknowledgment spread through the room. Some members exchanged looks, knowing how dangerous this mission could be. Elle’s gaze sharpened. “The top five groups from the annual tournament, including Ryle Greece, are required to participate. Everyone should be prepared.”

She reached into her satchel, pulling out a small, unadorned stone. Holding it up, she handed it to the nearest person, her expression serious. “Equip yourself fully—armor, weapons, supplies. This stone will serve as a signal if you encounter the kidnappers or their agents. It’s a cheaper alternative to a flash vial but equally effective. When you throw it, nearby groups will respond. It’s crucial for coordination and this might save our lives if the perpetrator is more capable than expected.”

Elle York’s voice grew more commanding. “The operation begins tonight for all student council members. We’re capable—so we’ll split into teams of four, including those assigned to night patrol. Remember, this is about protecting innocent lives. And there’s something very wrong here. All missing children are not yet awakened.”

A few students shifted uncomfortably, some sighing softly, knowing how little sleep they’d get. The weight of responsibility pressed down on them, but there was also a shared sense of purpose. Kana watched her peers, noting the mix of determination and reluctance in their expressions.

Kana nodded, feeling a flicker of resolve ignite within her. The night would be long, filled with danger and uncertainty. She was hoping the children were all safe and raiding a dungeon would be postponed for now.

……

The winter evening stretched over the training field, and the sun had long since vanished behind the horizon. Darkness crept in, casting long shadows across the open space, the air crisp and biting against the skin. The faint glow of lanterns flickered along the pathway, their light struggling against the encroaching night.

Kana arrived to find a small group already gathered—Suri, Mica, and a few other students, all waiting with a quiet anticipation, as if they sensed something important was about to happen.

Before she could even step onto the field, a blur of fur and claws launched herself at her with a fierce roar. Shai, the massive feline, pounced onto Kana, knocking her off balance. Kana stumbled back, pretending to be caught off guard, and then surrendered with a laugh as Shai’s tongue licked her face relentlessly, her massive paws kneading the ground.

“Hey! Okay, okay, I get it,” Kana chuckled, grabbing the big cat’s massive head and gently petting her. “Is it just me, or has Shai gotten bigger?”

Mica, standing nearby, snorted and crossed her arms, a small smirk on her face. “She’s just lazy and eats a lot. That’s why she’s gotten fatter.”

Shai, hearing her name, let out a loud, indignant roar and shook her massive body, clearly disagreeing with the assessment.

From beside them, Professor Len cleared his throat, drawing everyone’s attention with a calm but commanding voice. 

“Looks like everyone is here,” he said, glancing around at the assembled students. “I’ve already briefed them about the new mission. Professor Fin and Dufer will also participate. We’ll patrol on our own, while you group yourselves into four teams. Remember, safety first, and stay alert. Don’t forget to use those flash stones if you encounter something unexpected.”

Elle York hurried over, her expression serious but composed. She approached Kana with a determined look.

“I’ll go with you,” Elle announced, her voice steady. 

Kana felt a ripple of unspoken tension from the boys nearby, their eyes narrowing slightly—probably annoyed that they weren’t paired with her instead. She ignored them and turned her head towards Suri. She gave a quick, reassuring pat to Suri, who seemed lost in thought, her gaze distant.

“Did you find anything?” Kana asked softly. Of course, Suri was already trying to find whoever caused the missing children.

Suri nodded slowly, her lips pressed into a thin line. “Not yet. I haven’t seen any unusual movements. But... they might be able to detect my illusions now. I’m also not seeing anything unusual from the past few days… strange.”

Kana frowned, glancing at her friend. “You think they know your skill?”

Suri shrugged. “Could be. I’ll keep trying, but I might need more time or a different approach.”

Elle York hesitated for a moment before adding, “I think we’re complete now. Though I’m not sure if Shai counts as part of the team.”

A soft chuckle escaped Kana’s lips. “Well, she’s definitely a force of nature but I’m not so sure. Should we give her to the other group?”

Mica, leaning casually against a nearby post, grinned. “I agree or just leave her here.”

Shai let out a low growl, curling her tail and giving them a look that clearly said she was ready to go—if only she could speak. 

Kana’s face grimaced all of a sudden. They must capture them tonight. There was no assurance if they could find the victims or there could be more victims. 

Post note:
Sudden quest
Hope you enjoy the chap 🙂