120 - I Became the Must-Have Character of the Academy City

As the sweet holiday that unexpectedly came upon the first-year cadets of Orion Academy concluded, A small event marked the return to routine. Today, both the first and second years were gathered in the main auditorium for the assembly. In the auditorium, several high-ranking security officers were exchanging greetings with the instructors before the assembly commenced. And then the official beginning of the assembly. Juyeon, positioned at one corner, tapped the microphone lightly with her finger, prompting the cadets to stop their chatter and look forward. ─ We will now begin the morning assembly. They proceeded through the various routine procedures one by one. Rohan, singing an unknown song for the school's anthem, dutifully complied. Each cadet then paid tribute to their respective nations. And then, the anticipated moment arrived. ─ Next, we will proceed with the award ceremony. Cadet Rohan Lee of the first year, please come forward. Upon hearing his name called by Juyeon, Rohan stood up abruptly and moved towards the front. He acted as he had been briefed beforehand. He climbed the six simple steps to stand before the wooden podium with a microphone attached to it. A middle-aged male security officer, bedecked with an array of impressive insignia, occupied the podium. Holding a crisp piece of paper, the officer began to read aloud with a resonant voice. “Award Certificate. The above cadet significantly contributed by apprehending criminals disturbing public order and dismantling a syndicate single-handedly, notably rescuing innocent hostages…” The investigation by the Security Department had been officially concluded. They’d finally received the bounty for dismantling the organization Huangseomdan, which he had handled with Clara. The amount was substantial and intended as a security deposit for Clara's new home. However, since Shion had already acquired an estate, it would be enough to simply split the amount in half. ZGVPdDc2cnQxMFU0bVlrbnZITXlVaVdadUZaNERVRUYxeGJiY0JNQytJdERjRW1ucUtBNStiL1MxVVp6Y1J6MQ “Thus, this award certificate is presented. Elysium Security Commissioner, on behalf.” ─ Please give a big round of applause in congratulations. As Juyeon took the microphone again, applause erupted from the cadets behind him. “You’ve accomplished a remarkable feat. With cadets like you, perhaps it’s time for me to consider retirement.” The officer switched off the microphone and added a personal remark with a laugh. Rohan expressed his gratitude, respectfully accepting the presented award with gratitude. A thick hand was extended forward. Rohan did not hesitate to partake in a handshake. ‘…This man.’ The calluses and strength emanating from his thick hand felt extraordinary. He could sense it without the man exhibiting any magical power. This middle-aged officer... He isn’t as formidable as Juyeon, but he is stronger than the average instructors. ─ This concludes the award ceremony. Rohan recalled his training, turned around to salute, and descended the stairs. Upon returning to his seat, he calmed Gilbert, who seemed ready to burst into an ecstatic roar. ‘This is a bit overwhelming.’ Sitting back down, Rohan could feel the various gazes fixated on him. Indeed, as Juyeon had mentioned. There are many cadets at the academy who bear the names of their noble families and value honor highly. Thus, receiving an award in front of everyone serves as an excellent motivating force, they had said. Although a psychological education may be necessary to prevent reckless acts born from baseless confidence, They were not wrong in stating that it serves as a good motivation for the cadets. ─ … Juyeon lowered the microphone and conversed with the instructors that had approached her. After receiving the information, she brought the microphone closer to her lips once again. ─ There will now be an address from the Headmaster. Cadets, please stand. The cadets rose en masse. The academy headmaster emerged from behind the curtain. An old man with a cascading long white beard. Beneath his wrinkled visage was a robust body adorned with a luxurious oriental-style garment from the Samhwaguk. The headmaster, exuding a heavy aura, stood upon the podium. As he faced the vibrant young cadets head-on, The atmosphere shifted instantly, and a gentle smile spread across his face. “Please be seated and listen comfortably, everyone.” ─ Take your seats. As Juyeon's voice followed, the cadets all sat in unison. “The term ‘address’ may come off as tedious, and many may perceive it as an occasion where old people showcase their erudition.” Everyone listened quietly. It wasn't a question requiring an answer. “It’s not entirely inaccurate. From this point, I will remind you of the current situation based on past experiences for those of you who will lead the future.” There was a hint of certainty regarding the topic of discussion. “It is with great certainty that many of you are aware of the phenomenon where fractures in dimensions have occurred, not just within the academy city but in several countries.” The headmaster’s tone shifted to a more serious one as he continued. “The world has seen many natural calamities up until now. Terrifying catastrophes, beyond description, have always threatened humanity.” Rohan’s eyes met Juyeon's, who stood to the side of the podium. The annihilation in the south seemed to be included in the headmaster’s mention of unspeakable disasters. “Thus, it is time to renew our mindset. We must fully appreciate the value of our everyday lives and peace now.” It was believed that instructors and the headmaster would not overtly discuss the importance of peace. They thought the cadets should enjoy their academy life, excel in their skills, and personally feel and realize these aspects. However, the rapidly changing circumstances did not permit such leniency. “A substantial reform of the academy’s curriculum is anticipated. Everyone, focus on advancing and enhancing your capabilities.” Subsequently, The headmaster stepped aside from the podium and, in full view of everyone, bowed. Even his beard touched the floor. “I apologize for the deplorable experiences encountered by first-year cadets. I am sincerely sorry.” His voice resonated throughout the auditorium. Watching, Rohan felt a mix of emotions. It was something impossible to prevent, no matter what preparations were made. Being in a position of responsibility was a bitter experience, even to merely observe. “However, the fact remains that the rights of the cadets should not be infringed upon by such reckless individuals. There are no plans to commence classes timidly due to intimidation. We will strengthen our defenses and increase the budget.” If this were the school in my previous life, these would be remarks that could incite upheaval among students and parents alike. However, at Orion Academy, this approach is accepted without resistance. Under each person's own goals, This is primarily a place for those determined to make combat their profession. ***** “I’ll be handing out your midterm exam results.” After the assembly ended and they returned to Class 1, Juyeon retrieved the stack of papers. “Noa Frozenheart.” “Huh…” Noa stiffened her tail and emerged with a tense expression. As she handed Noa the report card, Juyeon also patted her head. “Well done. You kept your promise.” “!” In theory, Ichinose Yui topped the class, while Noa Frozenheart was at the bottom. Noa's average score hovered in the 40s, but Juyeon didn’t hold back her praise. It was a commendable first step that Noa solved the problems herself without merely guessing, as she had in the past. “Rohan.” “Yes…” “Excellent work. You've impressed the instructors.” “Thank you!” Rohan's average was in the 70s. Although it seemed like a decent score, in an academy where everyone was academically inclined, it placed him slightly below the middle in ranking. He wasn't able to perfectly navigate the subjective questions and the hidden pitfalls that distinguished the top scorers. Had he practiced more, aiming for at least the mid-tier could have been a feasible goal. However, juggling unfamiliar subjects from scratch and pushing himself to his limits in a short span of time had its constraints. He couldn’t completely set aside physical training for studying alone. There is a hierarchy of importance to maintain. ‘Numbers are so hard to get along with.’ Rohan glared at his somewhat disappointing report card. It was clear that specific subjects were indeed dragging down his average. “With the practical exam scores included, your overall rankings will be determined, so don't be complacent.” Juyeon, adorned with a faint smile, placed another set of papers on the podium. “The top scorer in practical exams is…” All eyes turned to Juyeon’s lips in anticipation, waiting tensely for the name to be announced. Juyeon intentionally paused for a moment before calling out the names. “Rohan and Ichinose Yui.” ““!!!”” Rohan turned his head, and Ichinose looked his way as well. When their gazes met, they exchanged smiles and thumbs-up gestures. “Both have shown outstanding consistency in maintaining their stickers correctly. Moreover, during a supply acquisition, you efficiently neutralized another cadet’s attempt to sabotage, which was significant.” Someone had indeed been watching the tussle with Ok Myung-jin. He hadn't sensed any eyes on him at the time, which was quite surprising. “Once your names are called, come retrieve your practical exam report. Both bonus and penalty elements will be detailed. We will accept objections for up to a week.” ·· ·· Before the start of their first class, As Rohan admired his practical exam report, which compensated for his theoretical disappointments, A furry bundle approached and poked Rohan’s cheek. It was Noa’s tail, white with black stripes. “Hey! Hey!” “Why, want me to grab your tail?” When Rohan moved to grab the fluffy tail, Noa quickly hid it behind her and got straight to the point. “Are you busy at lunch today?” “Lunch? I don't have any fixed plans.” He only considered going back to Shion’s estate for lunch with the others. There weren’t any concrete plans. “Then let's have lunch together with Nose. I have something to give.” “Oh, right.” He remembered they had planned something like this before. Last time, he had regrettably turned them down. Rohan's gaze naturally shifted to Ichinose’s seat. “Hick…” The surprised Ichinose, who had been watching them, quickly turned her head away upon making eye contact.