Chapter 54
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Volume 3 + Chapter 54: A Profound Experience
Xia Yi finally understood.
Why, back during the opening ceremony, the principal had been shouting “Battle!” over and over—and why the students had responded with such enthusiasm.
It was probably because of this very reason, the academy’s active stance in fighting against Calamities.
“Student Xia Yi, Student Yue,” the principal said passionately, “if the two of you join the Calamity Response Division together, it will completely change your reputation. Your courageous actions will be seen as heroic by your peers, and you’ll become role models for the new students—an inspiration to many!”
His tone grew more and more spirited.
“Are there any benefits?” Yue Liu asked.
“Of course, there are many. If you join the Calamity Response Division, Laurel Academy will provide additional resources. In the future, whether it’s equipment for battling calamities, magical tools, alchemical potions… you’ll receive bonus scholarship support. There will also be more training courses and access to elite instructors.”
“Not just during your time at the academy. After graduation, your resume will be far more impressive for having participated in the Calamity Response Division. You’ll even get priority for advanced studies at the academy—or the chance to become a teacher here.”
“Of course, your current punishment will also be canceled.”
The principal laid out many enticing conditions.
Yue Liu didn’t care much about most of it—but her ears perked up at just one word.
Money!
“I can get… a lot of money?”
“Of course. It’s a dangerous job, after all. We compensate accordingly.”
Yue Liu showed strong interest.
After paying for the dormitory damages, she’d barely have any money left. But now there was a high-paying job in front of her!
It sounded pretty good. Most importantly, it would spare them from being punished.
“If you agree, you’ll be under Teacher Hill’s command. She’ll guide and assist you on missions,” the principal explained.
Hill nodded in agreement.
“Well? This is a chance to become heroes—to protect the innocent and fight back against calamity.”
Yue Liu smiled with confidence—it was clear she had already accepted the idea.
All that was left was to state it out loud.
The principal looked at Xia Yi. “Student Xia Yi, I’ve heard you deeply admire the Sword Saint, correct? The Sword Saint is just like a hero—protecting others and inspiring everyone.”
Xia Yi had indeed encountered many mutated magical beasts in the past.
Back then, Wright hadn’t fully understood the cause of the mutations—but whenever he saw such things, he acted.
Becoming a hero had always been Wright Schubert’s goal. He worked tirelessly for it.
Carrying the hopes of many, defeating evil, upholding justice, and protecting everything within his reach.
However…
It was that very pursuit of heroism that drove Wright Schubert down a path of no return. Abandoned by others, he challenged an impossible enemy, lost his life, and met a tragic end. Even now, his name was still being exploited by others.
Xia Yi hadn’t forgotten.
It was precisely because of that experience that she had such a profound understanding.
She no longer wanted to be a hero.
The little princess had come to the human world to complete Xia Lulu’s mission. Her entry into Laurel Academy was to retrieve a gift—not for this kind of thing.
“Principal, I don’t want to go. That’s my answer,” Xia Yi said.
“Eh? Arch-rival, why not?” Yue Liu was confused. “This is a rare opportunity! We could gain so much from it!”
“She’s right, Student Xia Yi,” the principal chimed in. “If you’re punished, you’ll lose academic credits. Starting the school year with deducted credits is a dangerous position to be in. You haven’t earned any credits yet, so you could face expulsion at any time. But if you join the Calamity Response Division, not only would you avoid this, you’d receive extra opportunities and resources. We’d invest heavily in your development.”
“Thank you, Principal. And thank you, Teacher Hill, for your kindness. But I’ve thought it through—I don’t want to join,” Xia Yi said firmly.
“I see! So you’re just scared, aren’t you, arch-rival? Hmph—turns out you’re just a coward!” Yue Liu sneered, trying to mock her.
But Xia Yi didn’t react much. Unlike usual, she didn’t argue. Her expression was complicated, as if deep in thought.
Seeing Xia Yi like this, Yue Liu didn’t feel like teasing anymore.
“You really don’t want to go, Student Xia Yi?” Hill approached her gently.
“If you’re worried about safety, I can protect you. You can start with easier missions, ones that aren’t too dangerous.”
“I’m sorry, Teacher Hill.” Xia Yi shook her head.
“What a shame. Then, Student Yue—you’re still planning to go, right?” the principal turned his attention to Yue Liu, giving up on Xia Yi.
Yue Liu had been watching Xia Yi the entire time. After a moment of silence, she suddenly shouted.
“I’m not going either!!”
“What?” the principal was stunned.
Even Xia Yi looked surprised.
“If my arch-rival’s not going, I’m not interested either!”
“You don’t have to do this for me. That’s just your own stubbornness,” Xia Yi reminded her.
“This whole mess started because of me. Arch-rival, if you don’t want to clean it up this way, how could I possibly dodge the punishment by myself? If you’re not going, then I’m not going either!”
The little fox girl declared her stance with determination.
“Ah…”
The principal was at a loss.
Both of them had so much potential—and now neither was joining.
“You really won’t reconsider? This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. None of the other freshmen have your level of talent. That’s why I invited you!”
“Principal,” Hill interjected, “since both Student Xia Yi and Student Yue have made their decision, we should respect it.”
“Very well. If either of you changes your mind and wishes to join the Calamity Response Division, you’re welcome to come to me anytime.” The principal was full of regret, but he had no choice but to accept.
———
In the end, the punishment was carried out. Both Xia Yi and Yue Liu had credits deducted, and they were required to pay for the damages to the dormitory.
Yue Liu’s finances were completely wrecked—her wallet was in ruins, and she couldn’t even cover the costs. Her eyes welled up with tears.
Xia Yi couldn’t bear to watch, so she lent her some money to cover part of it.
But she herself wasn’t in a great spot either…
Until the Lawrence family sent over her living expenses, she’d have to start budgeting tightly.
During this time, Hill stayed with them and helped them through the administrative process, so they didn’t waste too much time.
“Thank you, Teacher Hill. You’re such a good person!” Yue Liu said with a grateful smile.
“It’s nothing. Just doing what I can,” Hill replied.
“Teacher Hill… about me not joining the Calamity Response Division—are you… angry?” Xia Yi asked, a little embarrassed. “You wanted to help us, and I refused your kindness.”
Hill had stuck with her. Xia Yi figured Hill must be feeling a bit indignant and wanted an explanation.
“Angry?”
Hill laughed when she heard that. Her response was something Xia Yi never expected.
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[Author’s Note: Surprise bonus chapter! With how hardworking this Swiss Roll is, don’t you think she deserves your monthly ticket vote~?]
