"It seems that communication is blocked."
Lirielle said, examining the devices around.
"Don't worry too much, the academy will take action."
Of course, the students weren't panicking because Lirielle was calm. Calm like a cat that just knocked over a vase but acts like it's a natural disaster elsewhere.
"Then do we just wait here?"
A dwarven student asked nervously. His wand looked fancy, his robes looked fancy, and his anxiety looked extra fancy.
"No, I don't think so."
Elize, who had been silent the entire time, finally spoke, arms folded.
She smiled as Lirielle turned.
"Rather, if you don't move, you might be in big trouble. Do you agree?"
"What do you mean?"
"I am sure the President noticed it too. We're not the only ones here."
Lirielle's expression slightly distorted.
The students were puzzled. These two already seemed to have figured out the situation.
"..."
How did they do it?
I know because I have a mission window. Are they using a skill like those martial arts masters? Probably.
I guess they're the main character and the final boss for a reason.
"It seems that they're not here for a friendly exchange, considering the President is present."
"What are you saying?"
"The President belongs to a prestigious family. That's reason enough to assume trouble."
She was sarcastically implying this was a crime aimed at high-ranking nobles.
The Caldwell Family commits evil like breathing; trouble naturally follows them.
Seemingly interpreting it that way, Lirielle's gaze cooled.
"You better choose your words carefully, freshman."
"Ah, I wasn't referring to anything."
Elize smiled innocently at Lirielle's reaction. Clever as always—she knows how to handle people.
"Anyway, wouldn't it be better to move somewhere than wait here?"
"...I think so too."
The largest male student spoke in a heavy voice. His attire suggested he was a barbarian from the Eastern Empire; the large ax on his back was impressive.
"The atmosphere isn't good. We don't know what's going to happen, so I think we should move to a more favorable terrain."
The expressions of the other students slowly shifted.
Not fear, but readiness.
Seeing everyone quickly adapt, it was clear these were top-tier students.
Looking closely, they weren't random nobodies: Warrior Garran, Mage Fulluin, Healer Trisha, Marksman Neak, and Elize—another warrior, and the leader.
'The original Hero Party.'
This was their first meeting. They showed great chemistry and teamwork during the exam and moved as a party all the way through.
In other words, everyone here is part of the story—except me.
"..."
Well, then.
I'll just proceed with my plan.
"The central hall seems the best option."
When I spoke, all eyes focused on me.
I pointed at the map of the building.
"There's various equipment and first-aid supplies inside, and plenty of space. Much better than a corridor prone to surprise attacks."
Everyone nodded seriously, convinced.
The problem:
"And I will go here."
I pointed to a completely different place on the map. Silence filled the room.
The silence was so heavy it took a long while for someone to speak.
"...Why are you going there alone?"
"It's necessary."
"But why?"
"There's a reason."
I probably look insane right now. In an event where a fight could break out at any moment, I insisted on going alone.
"..."
No, I didn't forget the mission was to protect Lirielle.
But seriously—common sense.
'Would that woman need protection?'
She's the Final Boss who could defeat the Hero Party, including the main character, alone.
Why should I risk my all-stat F @ss?
Can't I just leave them in the central hall, attract the assassins' attention, and hide until the situation is over?
"I can't reveal it now, but it's important. I'll explain it later."
I declared firmly. Technically not a lie.
After all, what could be more important than saving my life?
●
"It worked."
I murmured as I walked down a dark corridor.
I was worried if it would work, but defeating Elize in one punch seemed to boost credibility. Makes sense.
Goal: hide until the event is over. Lirielle is the target; they probably wouldn't even notice me.
I'll quietly pass time—
"Wait, student!"
Well, that's not happening.
I glanced at the source of the voice.
A middle-aged man rushed toward me.
"You're really alive...!"
He arrived in front of me, clearly struggling. A faculty nameplate hung from his chest, and he looked uncomfortable moving in the dark.
"Can you escort me somewhere? I'll ask others for help."
"...But the power's out?"
"Ehei, this little thing can be fixed quickly. Should we restore it first?"
I stared at him without answering.
Hmm. This man...
[ Danger Detected. ]
[ Hostility detected, no direct threat yet. ]
[ Skill: Last Resort raised to F Class. ]