Chapter 70: The Call to Protect
Xerion von Solara entered my recovery room, his long coat sweeping the floor, followed closely by Professor Lowen and Professor Aldin. Their expressions were grave, their presence commanding. It was clear they had come for answers.
"Naoki," Xerion began, his voice calm but firm. "We need a detailed account of what transpired during your battle against Norx and... Instructor Morgan."
I nodded, taking a deep breath. The memories were still vivid, and recounting them was like reopening a wound. "It started when we faced off against Instructor Morgan. He had already been corrupted, his form twisted by demonic influence. But the real danger was Nyssa. She transformed completely—becoming Norx, the Warlord of the Dreaming Void."
Their eyes widened as I continued. "Norx manipulated Morgan and Nyssa to abduct students with high mana reserves. The stolen mana was funneled into the Gehenna Gate, all part of a larger plan to weaken the seal on the Demon King."
The room fell silent. Xerion’s hand clenched into a fist. "A Demon Warlord infiltrating our kingdom... That hasn’t happened in centuries."
Professor Aldin nodded, his face pale. "The implications are dire. If the seal on the Demon King is broken—"
I cut in, my voice steady despite the weight of the situation. "That’s not all. The kidnappings at Solara Magic Academy and Braveheart Knight Academy are part of a coordinated effort. The demons are using human cultists as pawns, hiding in plain sight within the Braveheart Kingdom and Grand Kingdom Solara."
Xerion’s expression darkened. "I should have seen it. But during your battle, I was preoccupied fighting five high demons. Even so, failing to uncover demons among the academy staff... That’s on me."
He sighed heavily before continuing. "I will ensure a thorough purge across the kingdom. This cannot be allowed to happen again."
His words brought some relief, but he wasn’t done. "Arsene von Braveheart, head of Braveheart Knight Academy, has warned of similar threats. Demon activity is spreading further into human territories. To counter this, Arsene proposed a joint study group to strengthen the kingdoms’ defenses. I suspect her academy is facing challenges like ours. The evacuation was a precaution, but I trust Arsene will handle it."
Amelia, who had been silent until now, clenched her fists. Worry was etched on her face. "Arsene-onee-sama..."