Aetheric Chronicles: Reborn As An Extra

Chapter 316: The TWAO Branch Leader

The morning sun cast a warm, golden glow over the bustling city streets. News of the Black Chameleon's capture spread like wildfire, igniting conversations and speculation everywhere. From the bustling marketplaces to the quiet corners of small cafes, whispers of the notorious criminal's defeat were on everyone's lips.

"It was the Weapon Sage, Darius!" exclaimed a man at a newsstand, his voice filled with awe. "They say he caught the Black Chameleon with the help of a mysterious rich person and some TWAO agents."

A group of women standing nearby nodded eagerly, hanging on every word. "Who could that mysterious person be?" one of them wondered aloud, her eyes wide with excitement. "Do you think it's someone from the royal family?"

"Maybe," another woman chimed in, "or perhaps a wealthy merchant? Whoever it is, they're bound to be someone important."

In the crowded taverns, the news was the main topic of discussion. Patrons leaned in close, sharing what little information they had. Theories and rumors bounced back and forth, each one more fantastical than the last.

At the academy, the excitement was even more palpable. Students gathered in small clusters, their voices hushed but animated as they recounted the news.

"I heard instructor Darius single-handedly took down the notorious Black Chameleon!" a student whispered, her eyes sparkling with admiration.

"Yeah, and get this," her friend added, leaning in conspiratorially, "there was a mysterious rich person involved too. Can you believe it?"

Adrian walked through the academy grounds, his expression calm despite the buzz of excitement around him. He could hear snippets of conversations as he passed, students eagerly discussing the events of the previous night.

A small smile played at the corners of his lips as he muttered to himself, "I can imagine Hawke's troubled and panicked expression right now. Alas, I can't see it since we have classes." He chuckled softly, recalling the previous day's operation with a sense of satisfaction.

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He had met with Dorian after he left the house, who reported that the orphan girl had returned safely to her place. The girl was totally stranger, Adrian just met her not long ago when he saw her trying to commit thievery. That's why he commissioned her and gave her enough money so that she wouldn't do it again.

Although the person she was trying to rob was in fact him, he couldn't help but pity the girl. She was totally noob at this, might have been her first time. That's why he made Dorian investigate her and then offered her that work.

Anyway, after thanking Dorian for his help and dismissing him, Adrian made his way back to the academy. The mission was a success, and the loose ends were neatly tied up.

However, as he entered his room, he was met with his girlfriend who stood there with her arms crossed a curious and pouting expression on her face. Beside her, Noxy, the hedgehog, sat patiently, his tiny nose twitching.

Thankfully he told Aria what he was going to do, so there's nothing to worry about. However, she still asked several questions which made him a bit mischievous to use a secret move to stop her.

Remembering those intimate moments, he couldn't help but smile sheepishly.

"Mr. Adrian, is something funny?"

"Huh?"

Adrian's smile faded instantly, replaced by a look of surprise. He quickly glanced around the room and noticed that all eyes were on him, students staring with a mix of curiosity and amusement. Realizing he had been lost in his own thoughts, he shifted uncomfortably in his seat.

Standing at the front of the classroom, Instructor Ardent fixed him with a stern gaze, her expression unreadable. "Mr. Adrian," she repeated, her voice sharp and commanding. "Is something funny?"

Adrian straightened up, quickly regaining his composure. "No, Instructor Ardent," he replied respectfully, bowing his head slightly. "I apologize. I was a bit absent-minded."

Instructor Ardent continued to stare at him for a moment, her piercing eyes seeming to look right through him. "Very well," she said finally, her tone slightly softened. "Since you seem so engrossed in your thoughts, perhaps you can answer a question for me. What are the three important steps for Awakeners when they are clearing a Ruin?"

Adrian took a deep breath, his mind racing as he recalled the info he knew. "The three important steps for Awakeners when clearing a Ruin are: first... is to assess and identify the type of Ruin they are dealing with, including any potential threats or unique features it might have," he began in a calm voice.

"Second, to establish a clear and efficient plan of action, taking into account the abilities and limitations of everyone involved. And finally, to ensure that all members are adequately prepared, both mentally and physically."

There was a brief pause as Instructor Ardent considered his answer, her expression remaining neutral. Finally, she gave a small nod. "Your answer isn't entirely wrong, Adrian," she acknowledged, her voice calm but firm. "However, I would appreciate it if you paid attention to my class, rather than daydreaming. I hope this will be the last time."

Adrian nodded earnestly, his expression un-changing. "Yes, Instructor. I understand. It won't happen again," he promised, doing his best to sound sincere.

"Good," Instructor Ardent replied, her eyes sweeping over the rest of the class. "Now, as I was saying, the first step is indeed to assess the Ruin. However, it's also crucial to remember the importance of reconnaissance and gathering intel beforehand. Always remember that preparation is key, and a well-prepared Awakener is far more likely to succeed.

The second one is if it is a new and unexplored Ruin, it is best to report it to TWAO or responsible organizations. That way you will also receive rewards and don't put your lives in danger."

Adrian listened 'attentively', his earlier embarrassment slowly fading as he refocused on the lesson. As the instructor continued to discuss the intricacies of Awakeners' duties in ruin exploration, he made a mental note to stay more focused in the future.

'Well, I gotta stay more focused on her classes since I used her name to threaten Mr. Klein. Let's think of this as repaying favor.'

'She is the branch leader of TWAO in Eldora City after all...'

'And, I think we are gonna meet soon again. In her real office that is...'