Chapter 25: New Day, New Students?

The next day, in front of the Shogun Academy gates, the students were in an uproar. A black luxury car arrived, and from it, a man with neatly combed black hair and firm brown eyes emerged. He was Reiji Narukami.

"Wow, just as the rumors said, he's so handsome," a female student whispered.

"He looks like a prince from a TV drama," another chimed in.

Soon after Reiji entered, another black luxury car arrived, causing the students to get excited again. From the car, a woman with hair as blue as water and golden eyes emerged. She was Alena Fujimori. She looked like an angel, radiating an aura of beauty that captivated everyone.

"Oh my God, she really is like an angel, I'm completely mesmerized," a male student said.

"She has such a beautiful aura. Oh, my goddess!"

Inside the classroom, Chisa was waiting to introduce the two new students.

"You all still remember Alena, right?" Chisa said. "Well, Alena, say something to your old friends."

Alena gave a sweet smile. "Hello, everyone? It's been a while since we last saw each other. Are you all doing well?"

The other students greeted her enthusiastically. "Alena-san, welcome back! We've missed you so much!"

However, Akari, Shion, Mei, and Daigo remained silent. They didn't greet Alena. Their gazes were fixed on the door, as if waiting for someone far more important, which made Alena a little annoyed.

"You've all seen and heard. We also have a new student," Chisa said. "You can come in now, Narukami-kun."

Reiji entered with a firm, military-like posture. "My name is Reiji Narukami, I just transferred from my old academy. It's a pleasure to meet you all," he said in a soft and polite tone, which made the female students swoon even more.

However, Alena's attention remained on the four students who didn't seem to care. Her curiosity peaked.

Meanwhile, in Principal Makoto's office, Arata sat facing Pierson Howalt and Natasha Dimtrikov. Principal Makoto was also present, looking tense.

"I'm sorry to bother you, Arata-kun," Principal Makoto said. "We have guests. This is Pierson Howalt, a CIA agent, and this is Natasha Dimtrikov, an FSB agent."

Pierson offered a firm handshake. "It's an honor to meet you, Commander Arata."

Arata returned the handshake. "Likewise, Mr. Howalt."

Natasha just observed Arata, her eyes scanning him from head to toe. "So this is the man who provided such accurate intelligence," she murmured, more to herself. "We are very impressed, Commander."

After the brief introductions, Pierson got straight to the point.

"Principal Makoto," he explained, his voice calm but authoritative. "Because Tokyo will become a battlefield, we have been ordered to temporarily close this school."

The Principal nodded heavily. "We have already canceled all activities, including the planned study tour to Kyoto, for the sake of security."

At that moment, Arata interrupted. "Wait. What if the study tour goes on?"

Natasha looked at Arata with a raised eyebrow. "What do you mean, Commander Arata? It's a busy location, too risky."

"Exactly," Arata replied, his voice steady. "Everyone assumes the threat is in Tokyo. By continuing the study tour to Kyoto, we will move all the students to a safe zone, far from Tokyo which will soon become a battlefield."

Pierson looked thoughtful. "That could be a solid strategy, but it's very risky. This plan would also remove you from our operation team."

"I know," Arata replied. "But I will escort them. This is no longer just a matter of a mission or orders. If I can save one innocent life from those terrorists, then that's a victory for me."

Natasha gave a faint smile. "A very brave and unconventional idea, Commander Arata. Avoiding a war under the guise of a school trip. It's fitting for your reputation."

Principal Makoto looked at Arata. "I agree with this plan. But in exchange, you must personally escort them. You must ensure they all return safely. Can you handle that?"

Arata clenched his bandaged hand under the table. "Yes. I will see them through to the end."

Arata returned to the classroom. Chisa met him at the door.

"Arata-kun, I hope you weren't too shocked to see the two of them," Chisa whispered. "They're so, so handsome and beautiful."

Arata remained silent, his mind on his plan and the coming threat. "Oh, right, sorry I'm not focused," he said. He then entered the classroom.

Inside, Alena and Reiji were the center of attention. Alena, who saw the happy reactions of Akari, Shion, Mei, and Daigo when Arata entered, grew even more curious. "Why are they so happy to see him? He's just an average guy, even if he's a little handsome and firm," she thought.

Meanwhile, Reiji watched Arata closely. He noticed Arata's aura, which was similar to that of a special forces soldier. He wanted to salute him, but was stopped by the excited students.

Finally, Arata announced the study tour to Kyoto. All the students cheered with joy. However, behind the happiness, on the other side of the city, a special forces team was preparing to face the terrorist threat that was about to arrive.