Novel's Extra: The Lost Heir of Dragon Queen-Chapter 62: The Journey to Carol Island

The atmosphere in the academy courtyard buzzed with anticipation as students gathered near the briefing hall.

Today was the much-awaited day when the academy’s elite teams would embark on their first S-rank mission: the mysterious and perilous Carol Island, a location shrouded in myths of dangerous monsters and uncharted ruins.

Professor Darius, an imposing figure with sharp features and a graying beard, stepped forward, silencing the murmuring students with a single glance.

His voice carried authority as he began to explain the mission.

"Students, you have been chosen for this mission not just for your talents but for your potential to become the greatest protectors of our realm. The task before us is monumental. Carol Island is known for its treacherous terrain and powerful entities. Your objective is simple: explore the ruins, gather artifacts, and eliminate any threats. But remember, survival is paramount."

He scanned the crowd, his piercing eyes locking onto Kael.

"All teams will be under Kael’s command," Darius continued.

"He will coordinate the mission, assign roles, and ensure its success. This is not just a test of your individual abilities but of your ability to work as one cohesive unit under a single leader. Kael, step forward and address your fellow students."

Kael took a deep breath and walked to the center of the hall.

His gaze swept over the crowd, noting the mix of emotions—expectation, doubt, and even hostility.

He could feel the pressure mounting, but he refused to let it shake him.

"Thank you, Professor," Kael began, his voice steady and clear.

"First, I want to acknowledge the strength and skill of everyone here. Each of you has earned your place as an S-Class student, and I’m honored to lead such an exceptional group." Kael said.

He paused, letting his words settle before continuing.

"Carol Island is not just another mission. It’s a trial—of our strength, our resilience, and our unity. We will face dangers unlike anything we’ve encountered before, but I believe that together, we can overcome them."

Kael’s eyes hardened as he spoke the next part, his tone firm.

"I don’t expect blind obedience. What I do expect is for every one of you to give your best—to trust your teammates and to trust me as your leader. If we work together, there’s nothing we can’t accomplish."

A murmur of approval ran through the crowd, and Kael’s team, standing at the front, nodded in agreement.

"We’ll approach the mission in phases," Kael continued.

"First, we’ll scout the island and gather intelligence. Once we’ve assessed the situation, we’ll split into smaller teams to cover more ground. Communication will be key, so we’ll use enchanted devices to stay connected. No one is to act alone or without orders."

"Each team must stay together and ensure constant communication. Always have someone on watch, and prioritize each other’s safety above all else. If you encounter threats you can’t handle, retreat and signal for help."

Kael’s voice grew firmer, his gaze sweeping across the gathered students.

"Stick to your assigned paths. Don’t deviate unless absolutely necessary. And remember—this isn’t about showing off your strength. It’s about completing the mission and coming back alive."

The crowd murmured their agreement, and even the more arrogant students found themselves nodding along.

He turned back to Darius. "That’s the strategy I propose, Professor."

Darius nodded, his expression approving

Professor Darius smirked faintly.

"Well said, Kael. Now, everyone, gather your gear and head to the helicopters waiting behind the courtyard." Professor Darius said.

The students turned and began moving toward the row of sleek, black helicopters.

Kael regrouped with his team.

Lumia glanced at Kael, concern flickering in her eyes.

Kael smirked slightly.

Marcus clapped Kael on the shoulder.

"Yeah, let’s do this. I’ve been waiting for a chance to stretch my legs." Marcus said.

The students filed into the helicopters, their chatter filling the air as Professor Darius boarded last, ensuring all were accounted for.

As the helicopters lifted off, the academy grounds grew smaller beneath them, and the vast ocean ahead promised challenges unlike any they had faced before.

Carol Island awaited.

_____

(POV : Zarenth Searath)

The halls of the grand castle echoed Zarenth’s determined footsteps as he strode toward Serena’s chambers.

His mind had been preoccupied ever since whispers reached him about the boy Serena had sponsored at the academy.

Why she, of all people, would sponsor someone she barely knew was a mystery Zarenth couldn’t ignore.

He found Serena seated by the balcony, her golden hair shimmering under the pale moonlight.

Despite her relaxed demeanor, Zarenth’s sharp gaze betrayed no intention of small talk.

"Sister," Zarenth began, his tone firm, "I’ve been meaning to ask you—who is the boy you sponsored in the academy?"

Serena blinked, momentarily taken aback by his directness.

"Boy? What boy?" she asked, feigning ignorance.

"The one you personally vouched for," Zarenth pressed.

"The one you sent to that prestigious academy without so much as an explanation." Zarenth said.

"Oh, that boy," Serena said after a pause, her tone dismissive.

"I don’t quite remember the details. It was Amelia who brought him along. You should ask her." She said.

Zarenth’s eyes narrowed.

He knew Serena wasn’t being entirely truthful.

Before he could retort, a soft voice interrupted them.

"Hey, Young Master Zarenth," Amelia chimed in as she entered the room.

"If you want the truth, I’ll tell you." Amelia said.

Zarenth turned to face her, his sharp gaze locking onto hers.

"Yes, tell me everything, Amelia. I won’t tolerate any more evasions." Zarenth said.

Amelia hesitated for a moment, glancing toward Serena for approval.

When none came, she sighed and spoke cautiously.

"Actually… he’s the new lover of Her Majesty." she said.

"?"

The room fell into a tense silence.

Zarenth’s jaw tightened, his eyes flashing with barely restrained fury.

"You’re saying that child—that boy—is involved with Her Majesty? Is this some kind of joke?" Zarenth said.

"I swear it’s true," Amelia insisted.

Zarenth clenched his fists.

"If none of you will give me a proper answer, then I’ll go and ask him myself." His voice was sharp as a blade.

"And don’t hold me responsible if the boy doesn’t survive the encounter."

"Zarenth, wait—!" Serena called out, but Zarenth was already marching toward the door.

Serena sighed heavily and turned to Amelia.

"Go after him. If he does something reckless, stop him immediately." Sephina ordered.

Amelia hesitated, clearly reluctant, but nodded.

"Understood, Lady Serena." She said.

As she made her way after Zarenth, Sephina rose from her seat.

"Wait," she said, her tone unusually soft.

"I’m coming with you. It’s been almost a month since I last saw him, and I’d like to know how he’s doing." Sephina said.

"Are you sure, my lady?" Amelia asked, surprised by Sephina’s sudden decision.

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"Yes, I’m sure," Sephina said, adjusting the hem of her dress. "Let’s go. Zarenth is likely to do something drastic if left unchecked."

The two women hurried down the corridors, trailing Zarenth, whose fury seemed to radiate like a storm as he headed toward his inevitable confrontation with Kael...