Aetheric Chronicles: Reborn As An Extra

Chapter 226: The Tournament Turns Into Court

As the voice echoed, everyone's focus turned to the figure who was slowly descending to the stage.

The Principal Arwen landed right between the two, his presence commanding immediate respect and silence. His eyes, sharp and unwavering, scanned the crowd before settling on Bernard and Rowan.

"Bernard," Principal Arwen began, his voice calm but firm, "My academy has its rules and regulations. No student, regardless of their lineage or influence, is above them."

Bernard Ironheart's face tightened, his fists clenching at his sides. "My son—"

"Your son," Arwen interrupted, "has been manipulating and tormenting other students, including attempting to harm one during an official event. This is a serious violation, and it will be addressed according to our laws."

Rowan, still pinned to the ground, struggled to speak. "F-Father, I—"

"Silence," Bernard snapped, his eyes filled with a mixture of anger and concern.

Principal Arwen turned his gaze to Rowan, his expression unreadable. "Student Rowan Ironheart, you will be taken into custody and held accountable for your actions."

Rowan stared at the principal, biting his lips. The Principal's aura pressure was still pinning him down even though his father was shielding him with his all. And he hated that. He hated he couldn't do anything. And it was all because of him!

'Damn you, bast*rd!'

Rowan's eyes filled with fury as he looked at Adrian who just stared at back, his eyes devoid of fear.

Just then Adrian took a few steps forward and faced the Principal.

"Sir Principal, can I suggest something?" He asked.

"Hmm, speak." Arwen nodded curious about what he wanted to ask.

"Thank you," Adrian replied.

"I think we should conduct a formal inquiry right here in the arena," Adrian continued, his voice steady despite the tension in the air. "Given the gravity of the situation and the number of witnesses, it would be best to address this openly and transparently."

The crowd murmured in agreement, their curiosity piqued by the proposal. Principal Arwen considered Adrian's suggestion, his gaze shifting between Adrian and Bernard.

"A formal inquiry?" Bernard scoffed. "This is a mockery. My son will not be subjected to a public trial."

"On the contrary, Bernard," Principal Arwen interjected, "a public inquiry ensures that justice is seen to be done. It will serve as a deterrent to others who might think to follow in Rowan's footsteps."

Bernard's expression darkened, but he remained silent, clearly realizing he was outnumbered and outmatched.

Principal Arwen nodded at Adrian. "Very well, we will proceed with an inquiry. Adrian, as the primary accuser, you will present your case first."

Adrian stepped forward, taking a deep breath. "Thank you, Principal Arwen. Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed guests, and fellow students, I stand before you today to reveal some truth I know about Rowan Ironheart, more precisely, the Dream Stalker."

The crowd's murmurs grew louder, a mix of shock and anticipation.

"He has used his abilities to manipulate and torment his fellow students, causing them severe distress and nightmares. He took advantage of his power to control their actions, leading them to do his bidding. I have experienced this firsthand and witnessed the impact on others as well."

Adrian paused, allowing his words to sink in. "Eluna was just one of his victims, coerced into accusing me of actions I did not commit. But through the help of my classmates and instructors, we uncovered the truth. He has been playing a dangerous game, hiding behind his innocent facade."

Principal Arwen nodded, his expression serious. "Thank you, Adrian. Your testimony is noted. Now, Rowan, do you have anything to say in your defense?"

Rowan, still pinned to the ground, glared at Adrian. "You think you can stand against me? You have no idea who you're dealing with."

"Enough," Principal Arwen commanded. "This is not a place for threats. Bernard, if you have anything to add in your son's defense, now is the time."

Bernard stepped forward, his expression a mask of controlled anger. "Rowan may have made mistakes, but this is a witch hunt. He is being unfairly targeted and made a scapegoat."

Principal Arwen raised an eyebrow. "Unfairly targeted? The evidence against him is substantial. The testimonies, the nightmares, and the manipulation of students—these are serious accusations. He can just say no if he's not guilty. The lie detection spell is working perfectly fine.

Which means he is guilty."

Bernard clenched his fists. "I demand that we take this matter privately. The Ironheart family will not stand for this public humiliation."

"Justice must be seen to be done," Principal Arwen reiterated. "This is not about family pride, Bernard. This is about the safety and well-being of all students at this academy."

The crowd erupted in applause, their support for Principal Arwen's decision evident.

Bernard's face twisted in anger, but he remained silent. Rowan, still glaring at Adrian, seemed to realize the futility of further resistance.

Principal Arwen turned to the gathered instructors. "Instructors Darius, Liara, and Farris, you will oversee the inquiry. Ensure that all evidence is presented, and all testimonies are heard. This will be a fair and just process. Darius, you will interrogate the offender."

The three instructors nodded, stepping forward to take their positions.

Principal Arwen then addressed the crowd. "I am sorry to have this event take such a turn, but it is necessary to ensure that justice prevails. Please, remain calm and patient as we proceed with the inquiry."

The crowd settled down, anticipation and curiosity palpable in the air. Instructor Darius stepped forward, his demeanor professional and stern.

"Rowan Ironheart," Darius began, "you stand accused of using your abilities to manipulate and torment your fellow students, causing severe psychological distress. You are also accused of attempting to harm Adrian during an official event. Do you have anything to say in your defense?"

Rowan, still pinned by the pressure of Principal Arwen's aura, slowly lifted his head as the pressure eased slightly. His eyes blazed with anger and defiance. "This is a farce. You have no real evidence against me, just the words of a few misguided students."

Instructor Liara stepped forward, holding a scroll in her hands. "We have collected testimonies from multiple students who have experienced nightmares and unusual behavior, and according to what we have, all of these points to you, Rowan. We also have documented evidence of the students acting out of character both last year in the incident and this year too."