Chapter 528 - 3

THE EXTRA WHO SHOULDN'T EXISTC50 : End of the Entrance exam (2)

Chapter 50: Chapter 50 : End of the Entrance exam (2)

In the dense thickets of the eastern part of the deserted isle, four human candidates crouched beneath the thick canopy of leaves. Their breathing was ragged, their clothes torn and stained from surviving the brutal first day of the Zenith Academy entrance exam. Despite the danger surrounding them, their voices remained hushed.

"Did you see him heading that way?"

"Yeah. Silver hair, blue eyes. He went east."

The group of four human candidates stood in a loose circle, whispering among themselves. Their breath fogged in the slightly chill morning air, though the humidity of the jungle around them made their clothes cling uncomfortably to their backs.

Despite the chaos of the ongoing Zenith Academy entrance exam, their current mission had nothing to do with earning points.

Their expressions were tense, their eyes darting around as they made sure no one was listening.

"Princess Charlotte gave us direct orders," one of them, a sharp-chinned boy with cropped red hair, muttered. "We find him, we inform her. Not a word to anyone else."

"No mistakes this time," said another. "She made it clear—no one interferes."

Unfortunately for them, someone was listening.

Unbeknownst to the quartet, a faint shimmer in the air behind a tree slowly condensed into the shape of a person—an observer cloaked in subtle magic, eyes glittering with interest as he absorbed every word.

They were just wrapping up their discussion when the air shifted.

A shadow moved.

A figure blocked the sunlight breaking through the canopy.

"Oh no," one of the candidates whispered, his voice trembling.

They turned.

And their hearts nearly stopped.

Standing casually in their path, one hand on his hip and the other resting lazily on the pommel of his sheathed sword, was none other than Alden von Crestvale.

Recognizing him instantly, their hearts nearly stopped. Dressed in sleek combat attire marked with the Crestvale sigil—a stylized serpent coiling around a silver sword—Alden's expression was one of amused disdain. His hair gleamed under the broken rays of sunlight, and his smirk was the stuff of noble nightmares.

The Heir to House Crestvale.

The golden boy of the Crestvale Duchy.

Famous for his arrogance, his unmatched sword skills, his smug superiority complex... and his tendency to speak only to those he deemed worth his time.

Rumors about Alden were many: how he won tournaments from a young age, cleared his first dungeon at twelve, and once told a marquess' son to shut up because he didn't like his voice.

And now, he was standing here, before them, radiating the kind of energy that made you question your self-worth.

His narrowed gaze swept across the group, piercing and cold. Under that stare, all four of them immediately began examining their boots with renewed interest, not daring to meet his eyes.

Then he spoke.

His voice was smooth, deep, and annoyingly smug.

"I heard what you said," Alden said, brushing a leaf off his shoulder as if the entire forest was beneath him. "Now, unless you four want to experience a level of pain previously reserved for medieval torture devices, you'd better tell me where that silver-haired candidate went."

All four flinched.

Sweat pooled at their temples.

The red-haired one gulped.

After a brief silence, one of them—a wiry boy with the beginnings of a nobleman's goatee—stepped forward.

He bowed. "Lord Crestvale. An honor."

The others followed suit.

"We... we mean no disrespect, truly. It's just... we're followers of Princess Charlotte. And we were given explicit orders. We're to report his location directly to the Princess. No one else."

A beat passed.

Alden's lips curled.

Then he laughed.

It wasn't a cheerful laugh.

It was the kind of laugh that echoed through the forest, unsettling birds and sending a squirrel scrambling up a tree.

Then, abruptly, the air changed. The laughter cut off.

And Alden stepped forward.

His tone was sharp. "Do you know the only reason you're still standing here?"

The group leaned back instinctively.

Alden's grin turned predatory. "It's because of her. If it weren't for Charlotte, you'd be in a healing pod right now with negative points."

They gulped.

"But," Alden continued, placing a hand on his chest dramatically, "I'm a reasonable guy. I understand people. I empathize. So how about you tell me nicely... before I stop being understanding."

There was a pause.

Then a collective thought ran through their minds:

"This guy? Understanding? HA!"

The irony of those words wasn't lost on anyone. Alden Crestvale, understanding? That was like saying a dragon was cuddly.

They wanted to laugh.

Slap him.

Scream into the abyss.

Because they knew—knew!—that Alden von Crestvale was many things: smug, powerful, a top-tier duelist, handsome enough to make bards write songs. But understanding?

Absolutely not.

They'd all attended enough noble banquets to hear the rumors. One of them had even witnessed Alden dismiss a noble for having a "funny face."

But the alternative? Refusing him?

Elimination. Pain. Shame. And all of their effort surviving for this long after enduring everything on this accursed island would go down the drain.

So, with trembling voices and heavy hearts, they answered.

"He was heading to the Eastwood Waterfalls, my lord. Eastern side of the island."

A grin spread across Alden's face.

A terrifying grin.

The four backed up instinctively.

But Alden didn't move toward them.

Instead, he turned smoothly, eyes glinting with amusement.

"Tell my cousin I said hi," he called over his shoulder as he disappeared into the foliage, leaving behind four very stressed and traumatized examinees.

He vanished into the trees, heading east.

The silence left behind was deafening.

The four collapsed onto nearby rocks and logs.

"Sweet merciful heavens, we're alive."

"Who was he talking about?"

"Who do you think? Princess Charlotte. They're cousins."

Meanwhile, Alden was already far ahead.

As he jogged lightly through the forest, his EVOband beeped.

Current Rank: 6 / 1,000,000

Points: 6,660

He clicked his tongue.

"Tch. I was at 4 just a few hours ago. Damn that bet with Ethan and Alex."

He frowned.

Ethan. That golden-haired monster.

He was definitely climbing the ranks. Alden could feel it in his bones.

He scoffed. "No way Alex is higher than me, though."

Still, he couldn't shake a feeling of unease.

As he moved eastward, he noticed something strange.

Groups of humans and vampires—dozens of them—were also heading east.

Some wore armor. Others moved in tight formation.

And many bore the crest of the royal family on their sleeves.

Charlotte's forces.

Alden raised an eyebrow.

"What's she planning?"

Finally, a realization dawned on him.

"Damn it!" Alden muttered, slapping his forehead as he landed atop a rocky ledge overlooking the forested eastern stretch.

"In all that excitement, I completely forgot to ask those fools why Charlotte's looking for that silver-haired guy." His brows furrowed, and his voice dropped into a grumble.

"Because as far as I know, there's only one silver-haired crazy weirdo," he scoffed, running a hand through his wind-tossed hair. "What the hell did that lunatic do now to catch Charlotte's attention?" A pause, then a wild smirk. "This is gonna be so much fun."

He shook his head, eyes narrowing as he focused ahead.

---

Elsewhere, beneath a leafy canopy near the Eastwood Waterfalls, a silver-haired young man was hunched over, panting.

"Finally... made it."

Alex Dragonheart straightened and wiped sweat from his brow.

His cloak was torn at the edges, and his boots were soaked from wading through a marsh.

But he was grinning.

"Ah, a peaceful waterfall in the middle of chaos. Just what I needed—nature's apology for the peace I'm about to shatter."

He glanced around the clearing.

He paused momentarily, eyes scanning the distance. The rumble of a waterfall reached his ears.

"Eastwood Waterfalls," he murmured, leaping forward.

The Eastwood Waterfalls sparkled in the morning light, cascading down a mossy cliff into a serene pool.

The waterfall flowed like liquid crystal, tumbling over mossy rocks into a tranquil, clear-blue basin. Sunlight pierced the jungle canopy, making the mist shimmer like stars. Quiet, cool, and hidden—it felt like a secret haven untouched by time.

"It really looks beautiful."

He dropped his bag and crouched.

"I sensed way too many presences on the way here. Hope they do what I expect, or I'm seriously doomed."

Sighing again, "Let's just hope they take the bait."

He had purposely let himself be seen heading east, knowing Charlotte's and Lilith's network would pick up on it. Now, he had to prepare.

His eyes turned to the waterfall.

His trap.

His gamble.

"I hope this works out..."

He cracked his knuckles and stood.

The mist from the falls clung to his silver hair.

His expression turned serious.

He decided to check his points.

Current Rank: 1 / 1,000,000

Points: 10,950

A soft sigh escaped his mouth. "Finally, first place. It was risky as hell, but I finally got it."

"Just one hurdle remains—surviving until only 2,000 candidates remain, and the exam will end."

After resting a bit, he stood up. "Now, time to make some preparations to welcome our guests."

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THE EXTRA WHO SHOULDN'T EXISTC51: End of the Entrance exam (3)

Chapter 51: Chapter 51: End of the Entrance exam (3)

Eastwood Waterfalls

Nestled in the heart of the forest like a secret kept from the deserted isle, the waterfall shimmered in the mid-afternoon light, veils of mist cascading down mossy cliffs. The soft thundering of water drowned out all other sounds, but amidst the beauty, there was also a feeling of danger emanating from it.

Alex crouched on the rocky ridge overlooking Eastwood Waterfalls, the misty cascade thundering below. From his vantage point, he scanned the dense flora—towering moss-covered trees, vines thick enough to strangle a wyvern, and flowers that glowed faintly in the moonlight. The air buzzed with an odd stillness, an eerie sort of peace.

He wasn't here for sightseeing, though. He peered over a thick branch to get a better look. The vegetation around the waterfall was lush, bordering on overgrown. Towering ferns mixed with bizarre plants—some bioluminescent, others shifting slightly, even in the absence of wind. Magic thrived here.

"Looks like the monster's sleeping peacefully," Alex muttered, exhaling as he brushed his silver bangs back. "Would be a shame to wake him up... unless you had a good reason."

He cracked his neck, muscles taut with anticipation.

"And I do have a reason. After all, I'm the only idiot who knows where the strongest monster of this exam is," he said, almost smugly. "An Advanced Peak-rank beast—a nightmare for anyone, even someone at the same level."

His grin widened. His plan was devious in its simplicity.

Step one: Hide. Step two: Let the incoming mobs chasing him stumble in, start fighting, and inevitably stir the sleeping beast. Step three: Watch the chaos unfold.

He reached into his storage ring and pulled out three palm-sized black orbs, etched with glowing silver runes. The moment he held them, they pulsed faintly.

Rune-Bound Detonators—a gift from Jack, his new business partner and the emotionally unstable genius blacksmith.

"Jack, my boy, you absolute lunatic. These things are beautiful," Alex whispered like he was holding a newborn kitten. "A magical explosive device."

The Rune-Bound Detonator was an explosive artifact. Each orb, no larger than an apple, shimmered with silver runes pulsing faintly. Created by rogue artificers that sold these in the black market these bombs combined fire, wind, and a hint of chaos magic for unpredictable results.

Two-part system:

Main Bomb: Plantable and remotely activatable.

Trigger Charm: A small talisman he kept close. When infused with mana and torn, it activated all linked detonators.

The bomb and a trigger charm he kept close to his chest. Inject mana, tear the charm—boom.

With practiced precision, he planted one near the waterfall's edge, another behind a cluster of stones closer to the waterfall, and the last one he threw into the water.

"Perfect triangle," he said, brushing dirt off his hands. "Not only do I work hard, I even blow stuff up artistically."

Finally, satisfied with his work, he stretched his arms. "This better work," he said, then paused. "Who am I kidding? Nothing ever goes according to plan."

He grumbled, stretching his back. "Why am I so hardworking again? Right, because I like living."

With his traps set, he retreated to a giant tree a good distance away and climbed it, finding a thick branch with a perfect view of the soon-to-be battlefield. Reclining against the trunk, he finally let himself rest.

---

Somewhere deep within Zenith Academy's monitoring chamber...

A group of instructors, senior faculty, and evaluation staff stared at a massive floating crystal showing Alex's every move.

"This guy... is insane, isn't he?" one of them blurted out.

One of the instructors, a stern-looking woman with gold-rimmed glasses, adjusted her lens. "That's Alex Dragonheart. Commoner background. Killed an Advanced (low) ranked monster alone without any help. Stole kills from both Princess Charlotte and Princess Lilith. Provoked two powerful factions. Now he's trying to use an Advanced-ranked beast as a distraction. Insane."

The instructor beside her chuckled. "No. Not insane. Clever. He knew where the monster was, and he knew it wouldn't attack unless provoked. So he found a way to do it without lifting a sword."

"We told the candidates there was an Advanced(peak)-rank beast, but no one was supposed to find it unless they were extremely unlucky. It was supposed to be a passive risk."

Another instructor leaned forward. "Do you know what this means? If he pulls this off and stays in first place... it'll be the first time in Zenith's history that a commoner leads the first-years in Zenith history."

Silence followed that statement.

Then the head instructor leaned forward, voice low. "Keep watching. This one's interesting."

---

Back at Eastwood, Alex was halfway into a dream where he became emperor of snack vendors when he suddenly tensed.

They were coming.

He adjusted his vision slightly using his mana-enhanced senses and spotted multiple presences approaching. Humans and vampires.

Leading the human group was a tall, elegant girl in royal armor, her white hair like snow even in the dusk light—Princess Charlotte Evans Avaloria. By her side was the ever-composed Seraphina Starlight.

From the other direction, wreathed in cold elegance and menace, came Lilith Noctis Bloodrose, floating like a nightmare with her brown-haired maid, Isadora Vale, trailing her silently.

Alex whistled silently. "Looks like both vampires and humans have talented trackers."

He activated Veil of Faint Steps, a skill that dimmed his presence almost completely, hiding him even from enhanced senses. He blended into the shadows of the tree like a phantom.

Still, his gut churned.

"Everything's going according to plan," he reassured himself.

Which was precisely why he didn't trust it.

Then—

Boom.

Two fast, powerful auras burst into the area, racing toward him. He cursed under his breath.

"Why do things never go smoothly?"

He recognized them instantly.

Ethan Williams and Alden von Crestvale.

'Of course. Of freaking course. Why wouldn't the two most overpowered idiots I know show up here?'

He clenched his teeth, still hidden, watching as the two landed side by side like protagonists in a drama.

Two powerful auras converge at the clearing. The sound of boots on stone echoed as two figures appeared from opposite directions—one bathed in a faint golden glow, the other walking with the calm precision of a swordsman.

Ethan Williams, heir to House Williams, stands beside a massive tree, his eyes calmly scanning the terrain. His aura is composed but sharp, like a drawn bowstring.

Alden von Crestvale, the golden boy of House Crestvale, arrives moments later, stepping onto a rock across from him. The moment their eyes meet, tension flickers between them—not hostility, but the weight of history, rivalry, and pride.

They locked eyes.

Smirks formed.

"Well, well, Mr. Smug Face," Ethan said, casually brushing imaginary dust off his shoulder. "I wasn't expecting you here. Lost again?"

"Oh please, Mr. Hero," Alden retorted. "You're the only one my age I've ever lost to. This time, it's different."

"We'll see about that," Ethan grinned, cracking his knuckles.

They both knew this was no time for conversation; it was time for action before they get teleported back to the academy.

The air around them crackled. Swords slightly unsheathed.

Then Ethan raised a hand.

"Before we start trying to beat each other up, how about we call out the guy in the tree enjoying the show with popcorn?"

He flicked a beam of light magic into a tree branch.

Boom!

The branch exploded. Alex plummeted.

"Goddamn it!" he yelped, adjusting midair with an annoyed backflip and landing gracefully.

He smirked. "How the hell did you figure it out?"

Ethan crossed his arms. "When you train with a Master-ranked magic swordsman since you're five, you pick up on shadows twitching in trees."

Alex grumbled, brushing off leaves. "You people need hobbies."

All three stood silently.

Swords slightly out.

Tension sharp enough to slice steel.

Then—

Multiple presences flooded the area. Leaves rustled. Footsteps echoed.

Humans and vampires emerged from the trees, staring at the vampires with narrowed eyes.

First, the golden glow of Charlotte Evans Avaloria emerged through the trees. The heir to House Avaloria walked with the grace and poise of a royal, yet her eyes, sharp and calculating, betrayed the untold strength that lay beneath.

Beside her, Seraphina Starlight glided into the scene, her presence soft yet unyielding. She was the embodiment of serenity, her blue hair cascading like a waterfall of moonlight down her back. The very air seemed to freeze around her, her affinity with ice magic subtly weaving a chill into the breeze.

And then from a little distance away from them came Lilith Noctis Bloodrose. The very shadows seemed to deepen and coil as Lilith Noctis Bloodrose emerged.

Her attire, dark as midnight, rippled with an aura of power that seemed to pull the surrounding light into the depths of its folds. The faintest hint of crimson gleamed in her eyes, a reflection of her lineage and the blood magic that coursed through her veins.

Her footsteps were measured, almost regal, as the shadows around her seemed to bend.

Lilith spotted Alden. Charlotte's gaze locked with Ethan's.

Then both their eyes landed on Alex.

Who, for the record, was inching back toward a rock with one hand on his rune charm.

Charlotte spotted him. "You!"

Alex sighed. "And here we go."

Alex smirked. "Ladies. Lovely to see you all again. Sorry I couldn't greet you properly last time—I was busy."

Alex whispered, "They're all here."

All at once.

"Perfect timing," he muttered sarcastically.

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THE EXTRA WHO SHOULDN'T EXISTC52: End of the entrance exam (4)

Chapter 52: Chapter 52: End of the entrance exam (4)

-----------------------------

Third person pov

--------------------------

Flashback – The night when Alex Eliminated the captured candidates

------------------------------------------------------------

The moon hung like a blade in the sky, casting pale light upon the bloodstained clearing where battle had just subsided. The scent of scorched earth and spilled mana still lingered in the air.

The battlefield reeked of scorched ground, blood, and charred mana. The stars blinked warily above, peeking through gaps in the swirling mist as three formidable women—Princess Charlotte, Princess Lilith, and Seraphina Starlight—stood still, eyes narrowed, minds buzzing.

A sharp gust of wind stirred the silence as Isadora Vale, her attire torn and her breathing heavy, approached the cluster of elite figures who had paused their brutal clash only moments ago. Her ragged breath, tinged with urgency, shattered the silence.

Isadora Vale, Lilith's loyal maid, knelt before her mistress, her tone cold as ever, though a flicker of disdain was evident in her gaze as it flicked toward Charlotte and Seraphina.

"My lady, the captured candidates have all been eliminated."

Lilith's brow arched. "Eliminated? By who? I didn't sense any strong mana signatures approaching."

Isadora replied curtly, her eyes never leaving Lilith.

"Silver hair. Blue eyes I only saw him for a second."

A beat of silence passed. Then, as if in synchronized revelation, all three women spoke the name in their thoughts.

"Alex Dragonheart."

It was a little hard to forget that guy—that audacious commoner who had walked into Zenith Academy's auditorium late, in the middle of a speech.

He was the only one who matched the description. The only one in that auditorium who stood out, not because of status or bloodline... but because he was smiling and laughing with two names that demanded the respect of the continent—Ethan Williams, the chosen of the temple, and Alden von Crestvale, the renowned prodigy.

No ordinary man would stand among them as an equal. Especially not Alden, whose pride and standards made him impossible to impress.

None of them were fools.

Ethan didn't associate freely. And Alden? That guy wouldn't deign to waste time on anyone mediocre. If both were talking to someone like an equal... that someone was a threat.

Charlotte clicked her tongue, her hands folded behind her back. "So he was the one who orchestrated all of this..."

It all fit now. The mysterious leak about Lilith's actions. The perfectly timed infighting between vampire and human candidates. The fact that someone swooped in and stole the kills.

"He played us," Charlotte murmured, both impressed and angry. Yet a hint of a smirk betrayed her irritation.

Charlotte crossed her arms, piecing everything together like a chessboard. "He must've leaked that Lilith was capturing candidates, baited everyone into fighting... and then struck when we were too distracted to react."

Seraphina's brows furrowed in contemplation. "He waited until we began fighting each other. Clever."

Lilith, however, was seething. Her crimson eyes glowed faintly with restrained fury. "The second time... First, he kills the ones I sent to bring him to me. Then he dares steal from me again."

Her clenched fists trembled. The name Alex Dragonheart was now etched into her memory.

Seraphina, by contrast, was introspective. Her mother, Sonia Starlight, had mentioned him. Her adorable sister, Sophia, had told wild stories about him defeating peak intermediate rank raiders . She had dismissed it as exaggeration.

Not anymore.

She finally admitted to herself—he wasn't just talk. He had the strength. And the brains.

The realization hung in the air like a blade on a thread. Three of the most powerful candidates in this exam—each dangerous in her own right—had been outwitted by a silver-haired nobody they had dismissed far too quickly.

The silence among the trio lengthened. They each processed the revelation, minds spinning with strategy, pride, and grudging admiration.

Then their eyes met once more.

Two paths lay ahead.

Continue the battle, risking further injuries and possible elimination. Or retreat, recover, and live to fight another day at the academy.

Charlotte narrowed her eyes. "We could take her," she thought, glancing at Lilith. But the princess of blood bore a wild look in her eyes—the kind that promised to drag atleast one them down with her.

She weighed her chances. Losing Seraphina—one of her few true allies in the Academy—was not a risk she was willing to take.

Seraphina seemed to reach the same conclusion. Her stance softened slightly.

On the other hand even in her fury, Lilith wasn't blind to the current reality. She was injured, her mana reserves low. And across from her stood two opponents—either of whom, even in their battered condition, would give her trouble. Together? She knew what that meant.

Her red eyes flicked to Isadora Vale, who stood a few meters away, tense but unharmed. Isadora, her maid since childhood and perhaps her only true companion, had followed her loyally since they were little.

If Lilith struck now, Isadora would be the first casualty—a liability in this moment of weakness.

So she exhaled slowly, burying her rage.

The stalemate was broken by Charlotte, her voice calm yet sharp.

"Ceasefire. This won't benefit either side."

Seraphina agreed, brushing blue strands of hair behind her ear.

"Agreed. A fight here would just mean meaningless eliminations—and none of us benefit from that."

Lilith studied them. Then took a glance at Isadora.

She nodded reluctantly.

"Agreed."

A shaky truce was declared.

The battered forces of vampires and humans began to separate. Mutual exhaustion was the only glue holding the truce in place.

---

Later, under the canopy of the fading night sky, Charlotte walked beside Seraphina, her mind ticking like a machine. Every movement of the silver-haired boy played in her head.

"He must've racked up a ridiculous number of points," she muttered.

Seraphina gave her a sideways glance.

"Thinking about how to get those points back?"

Charlotte smirked.

"You know me too well, Sera."

Seraphina chuckled softly.

"Of course I do. I've known you since we were little. I can tell the exact moment you start planning something... devious."

Charlotte laughed lightly, then stopped walking.

"We should send someone to track him. He's probably not too far yet."

Seraphina nodded in agreement.

"We should. But first..." She gestured to the bruises across her arms and the slight tremble in her steps. "We need to heal."

Charlotte exhaled.

"Yeah. Agreed."

---

Meanwhile, in the vampire camp, Lilith reclined in her makeshift tent, her eyes closed as a healing mage repaired the worst of her wounds. But her mind wasn't resting.

"Isadora," she said suddenly.

Her maid appeared almost instantly.

"Yes, my lady?"

"Send someone to track the silver-haired boy. And inform me the moment you get any updates."

Isadora bowed.

"As you wish, my lady."

Lilith closed her eyes again, her voice a mere whisper now.

"I'll remember you, Alex Dragonheart. If you somehow still survive this exam... I'll make sure to repay you."

---

By the time dawn broke, scouts from both factions returned—nearly simultaneously—with the same report.

The silver-haired candidate was seen heading east, toward the Deserted Isle—a forgotten region that led to the Eastwood Waterfalls.

Both Charlotte and Seraphina shared a knowing glance and began preparing.

Meanwhile, Lilith received the same information from Isadora.

"The Eastwood Waterfalls," she murmured, gaze narrowing. "Let's see what cards he's hiding."

And so, three forces—vampires, humans, and unexpected prodigies—converged at the same place.

---

______________________________

Present – Eastwood Waterfalls

____________________________

Mist billowed off the falls in ethereal waves as six figures stood staring at each other. Water roared in the background, but the tension was louder.

On one side stood Alex, calm, a faint smirk dancing on his lips. Beside him, Ethan Williams and Alden were shooting him confused looks.

On the other stood Charlotte, Seraphina Starlight, and Lilith—each radiating noble power, their wary eyes locked on Alex.

No one spoke.

A silent standoff.

Then Alex did something none expected.

He stepped back.

And pulled out a talisman.

A single silver rune gleamed on its surface. It did not look ordinary.

Charlotte's brows knitted. "A trap?"

Seraphina took half a step forward. "What are you—"

Too late.

Ethan's brows furrowed. "What are you doing?"

Alex didn't answer. His eyes gleamed with amusement, but also with warning.

"You came looking for me. Don't blame me for what you find."

With a calmness that only unsettled the already tense atmosphere, Alex stepped back and raised the silver-etched talisman. The rune on its surface pulsed with mana.

Charlotte narrowed her eyes. "What are you—"

Alex pressed two fingers to the rune.

"Time to wake it up."

The talisman flared brilliantly, sending a surge of mana through the air like lightning through storm clouds.

And then—

BOOM! BOOM! BOOM!

The waterfall exploded. Not splashed—exploded.

Massive plumes of water and stone erupted upward as the orbs Alex had carefully embedded detonated in perfect sync. The force shattered the rocks, sending chunks flying and mist blanketing the area in a dense veil.

The rumbling didn't stop. In fact, it deepened. The earth beneath their feet trembled. A guttural growl echoed from the cavern now exposed behind the waterfall, shaking bones and hearts alike.

A pair of glowing amber eyes blinked open in the dark.

From the shadows, a monstrous figure emerged—scaled, ancient, and seething with primal mana.

Alex's smirk deepened as he whispered,

"Let the real test begin."

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THE EXTRA WHO SHOULDN'T EXISTC53 – End of the Entrance exam(5)

Chapter 53: Chapter 53 – End of the Entrance exam(5)

The ground trembled beneath their feet.

A low, ominous rumble echoed through the water, vibrating through the earth. The tremors grew stronger with every passing second.

Dust fell from the ceiling, pebbles danced across the ground, and the previously tranquil waterfall began to pulse with unnatural energy. All eyes turned toward it.

Seraphina narrowed her eyes. "Something's wrong."

Lilith's crimson gaze darkened as she saw what was happening. Her vampire followers huddled together, fear creeping into their undead veins.

Charlotte calmly lifted her chin, silently assessing the environment with her piercing aquamarine eyes. A noble's grace and confidence radiated from her posture.

Only one person didn't seem concerned—Alex Dragonheart. After observing the scene unfolding, he disappeared while everyone's attention was elsewhere.

As the rumbling intensified, a deep, unnatural screech echoed through the water—like nails against the world's fabric itself. From beneath the crashing waterfall, the shadows shifted... something massive moved.

Suddenly, the water exploded upward as an enormous, serpentine creature emerged.

Ossirath.

The serpent of forgotten rain—a creature feared even among Advanced-rank monsters—slithered from the churning pool hidden behind the waterfall. Its obsidian scales shimmered with a glossy sheen, each plate thicker than castle walls.

Glowing crimson lines pulsed along its body like molten lava, and venom dripped from its jagged fangs, sizzling as it hit the ground.

Its eyes—no, voids of hatred—locked onto the intruders.

Every single team froze.

"That's—" a terrified voice cracked.

"An Advanced-rank... no... Peak-Advanced!" someone cried out.

Terror surged like a tidal wave.

Ethan Williams and Alden von Crestvale instinctively tightened their grips on their swords, muscle memory kicking in.

"Now that looks like a worthy challenge," Alden muttered, a grin spreading across his lips.

In contrast, Lilith's vampire followers panicked, some even backing away.

But Lilith? She didn't even flinch. One single word slipped from her mouth:

"Silence."

The vampires stopped. Cold. Not a single step back, not a whisper. Her authority terrified them more than the monster.

Charlotte raised an eyebrow in amusement, glancing at Lilith before focusing back on Ossirath. "How did that guy know the monster was here?" she thought aloud, gaze momentarily shifting toward where Alex had disappeared earlier.

"Where did he disappear to?" she wondered.

But her thoughts were cut short.

Ossirath roared.

The sound wasn't just loud—it was a soul-piercing screech that rattled bones and shattered thoughts. It ripped through the cavern like thunder incarnate, snapping everyone out of their daze.

Without warning, the serpent lunged—not at the elites, but at the scattered human followers already scrambling away.

A massive swipe of its tail—

BOOM!

The ground cracked and several unfortunate souls were flung like ragdolls into the air. Cries of pain were silenced in an instant as they were eliminated.

"Maintain formation!" Charlotte barked, shaking off her thoughts. "Range at the back, magic support in the middle. Now!"

Before the formation could fully settle, a blur of motion shot forward.

Alden.

His fire resonance already ignited, his aura flared like a comet as he dashed straight at the serpent.

"Don't underestimate me, you overgrown worm!" he shouted, his blade glowing.

He slashed downward with flaming force, landing a direct hit on the monster's scaled side.

CLANG!

The strike echoed—but the scales didn't break. Ossirath barely flinched.

A moment later, its massive tail swung sideways.

CRASH!

Alden was sent flying like a cannonball, smashing into a tree trunk. The impact cracked the bark and sent leaves flying. He groaned, blood dripping from his mouth.

"Damn... thing's tougher than it looks. Fuck—that hurts."

The fight began.

Charlotte lifted her arms. Rings of gravitational force formed around her, centering on Ossirath.

Seraphina raised her hand, forming massive icicles above the serpent's path.

Lilith extended her palms, her blood forming crimson lances that spiraled toward the beast.

The vampires, now composed, took formation and launched spells and arrows imbued with night magic.

The human followers, rallying to Charlotte's voice, charged forward in battle formation, blades drawn.

Ethan activated his elemental affinities. Golden light surrounded his blade, lightning crackled across his form. He shot forward, weaving through chaos.

Each attack landed with varying effects—

Charlotte's gravity wells slowed Ossirath slightly, forcing the serpent to dip and drag its mass.

Seraphina's ice spears struck the monster's flank, sending shards flying—but only scratching its outer scales.

Lilith's blood spears managed to pierce slightly deeper, hissing against the serpent's mana-coated hide.

The vampire unit's coordinated assault caused minor explosions across its body, creating small scorch marks.

Ethan's lightning-infused blade slashed across the serpent's eye ridge, leaving a faint burn and forcing it to recoil.

But then... the serpent retaliated.

Ossirath's body began to glow ominously. Lines of magma-like energy surged from its chest and spread across its form.

Massive arcs of dark energy pulsed around Ossirath's body.

A wide wave of Corrosive Mist spewed from its gaping maw. The mist slithered across the battlefield, melting plants, rocks—and unprotected humans.

One follower screamed as the acid mist corroded his armor, flesh sizzling as he fell. Another tripped and fell into the mist, his form reduced to bones in seconds as he was eliminated.

Another attack followed. The serpent's massive tail whipped through the air, launching sickles of condensed mana.

One blade severed a vampire's torso mid-flight. Another collided with Ethan's barrier, causing it to crack before he deflected the rest with a wild leap.

Then came Tectonic Crush.

Ossirath's entire body slammed into the ground. The jungle floor fractured. Trees toppled. Craters formed. Several followers were launched into the air, limbs flailing. One human was swallowed whole by a fissure that opened under his feet.

Seraphina hit a tree, dazed.

Charlotte nearly lost her footing, using her gravity magic to stabilize herself.

The formation fell into disarray.

Charlotte shouted, "Regroup! Maintain formation!"

Seraphina got up and took flight, her ice wings unfurling from her back. "Take this," she said coldly.

Her ice magic exploded outward, spikes and spears forming mid-air before launching toward the monster. The ground around Ossirath began freezing, limiting its movement.

Charlotte raised her staff. "Let's see you slither in this."

Graviton Collapse—a field of dense pressure warped around the serpent, slowing its body as if time itself had thickened.

Lilith smirked, blood rising from her hand and forming blood lances that spiraled toward the monster. "Don't disappoint me now."

Her followers moved with militaristic precision, conjuring more blood magic and dark tendrils to entrap Ossirath.

The human followers joined in too, unleashing waves of elemental magic—flames, arrows, stone spikes, and lightning bolts.

Ethan joined the assault, his body cloaked in brilliant white and golden light. Light spears and thunderbolts shot from his sword, arcing through the air and striking the serpent repeatedly.

Ossirath roared, flailing, its body bleeding but not yielding. Some attacks bounced off, others left seared wounds.

Its pupils dilated.

Berserk mode.

The beast's power erupted, its body expanding, the ground was shaking as it released Devouring Wrath—a massive wave of cursed energy that shattered incoming spells and threw attackers back.

Ethan, still standing tall, took a deep breath.

"Time to end this," he muttered.

He activated Light Resonance, his entire body radiating divine energy. Then, his sword began to glow—Dawnbreaker Judgement.

He focused.

"First Form: Radiant Edge."

A blinding beam of light surged around his blade. Ethan dashed forward with speed beyond comprehension, piercing through the battlefield like a divine spear.

His sword found a weak point—the base of the monster's neck.

BOOM!

A massive explosion of holy light erupted.

The crowd watched in awe.

—

Outside the Deserted Isle

The world watched.

Screens broadcasted the battle from every angle. Commentators screamed over each other.

"WHAT A STRIKE! ETHAN WILLIAMS HAS PIERCED THROUGH OSSIRATH'S DEFENSES!"

"THIS—THIS IS WHY HE'S THE PROPHESIED ONE!"

The world was going crazy watching their hero.

In the Williams Dukedom

In a lavish estate, Tanya Williams—Ethan's mother—stood, fists clenched in excitement, tears brimming in her eyes.

"That's my son! You show them!" she shouted.

She glanced wistfully at the empty chair beside her.

"Arthur is busy with work again... Evelyn is at the academy... I hope you guys are watching him too."

—

Back at the Isle

Seraphina, Charlotte, Lilith, and Alden relentlessly struck at Ossirath.

Alden, bloodied and grinning, returned to the field. "Round two, snake."

With Charlotte's gravity magic pinning the serpent and Seraphina's ice locking its joints, the beast's movements slowed drastically.

Ethan shouted over the chaos, "Char! Sera! Hold him still for a few seconds!"

Both girls nodded.

Their magic intensified.

Ethan focused everything into his next attack.

"Fifth Form: Strike of Judgement!"

He vanished, reappearing with a thrust of pure, blinding energy—aimed at Ossirath's heart.

CRACK!

But before the attack could finish—

A second voice rang out.

"Astral Void Rend – Fourth Form: Bladestorm Mirage."

A blur.

Silver hair, blue eyes.

Alex.

Appearing out of nowhere, his blade moved like a phantom. The attack came from behind—layers of afterimages slashing into the monster simultaneously.

The two strikes collided—one light, one void.

Ossirath shrieked, its body convulsing. And then—

BOOM!

It disintegrated into particles of light and faded into the air.

Silence.

The battlefield froze.

Ethan, panting heavily, sheathed his sword. That fifth form had drained him.

Only now, he noticed Alex, standing calmly a few meters away.

"So, you didn't run," Ethan muttered. He smirked. "Ruthless bastard."

"He came out at the end just to ensure he'd get a share of the points," Ethan thought. "Sneaky bastard." His thoughts came out loud.

Alex smiled twitched at that.

He wasn't the only one thinking that.

Everyone's eyes turned toward the silver-haired figure.

Charlotte. Seraphina. Lilith. All stared daggers at him.

Alden? He was grinning like a maniac.

Alex slowly began to clap.

"Bravo," he said, voice smooth and mocking. "That was beautiful. Entertaining, even. But... you all look so drained. So tired."

His eyes gleamed. He raised his right hand, his sword glowing faintly.

Then, with a flick of his left hand, he drew a dagger in his left hand.

His expression turned deadly serious.

"So... shall we get started?"

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THE EXTRA WHO SHOULDN'T EXISTC54: End of the Entrance exam (6)

Chapter 54: Chapter 54: End of the Entrance exam (6)

[Flashback – Alex's POV]

Some time ago...

"Damn it."

Alex crouched behind a moss-covered boulder, peeking through the lush canopy of Eastwood Waterfalls. He watched as Ethan Williams and Alden von Crestvale stepped into the clearing where the monster had just begun to emerge.

He let out a soft sigh, one hand gripping the hilt of his sword while the other rubbed his temple.

"This wasn't supposed to happen," he muttered.

Originally, the plan had been simple. Elegant. Flawless, even.

He remembered the strategy—now backfired.

It had been meticulous. Calculated.

Charlotte, Seraphina, and Lilith were expected to arrive. That was the scenario he'd planned for. He'd trigger the awakening of the monster sleeping beneath the waterfall—Ossirath, a monstrous peak Advance-rank creature with scales harder than enchanted steel and an appetite for chaos.

Charlotte, Seraphina, and Lilith were all strong—but not strong enough to defeat Ossirath head-on.

He'd imagined the underlings of Charlotte and Lilith being wiped out in Ossirath's initial rage. With their forces depleted and the three girls unable to handle the beast, they'd be forced to retreat. A clean extraction. Alex would remain hidden, letting the monster do his dirty work.

He would've kept his rank intact, biding his time until only 2,000 candidates remained.

But then... they arrived.

Two walking anomalies. Powerhouses. Maniacs.

Ethan Williams. Alden von Crestvale.

And just like that, his plan turned to smoke.

The protagonist and the high noble. With them here, Ossirath's defeat was already imminent.

They crashed the scene like a hurricane at a tea party.

Alex sighed, eyes shifting toward the battlefield where Charlotte and Lilith's forces scrambled.

"Looks like I'll have to improvise my plan." A devilish smile adorned his face.

---

Present.

Ethan stood across from him, arms crossed, a faint smirk playing on his lips. Alden, meanwhile, was laughing like a cartoon villain from an old anime.

Likely because Alex, at the last moment, had landed a small but flashy blow on the monster. It had earned him a few contribution points.

"A little contribution never hurt anybody," Alex muttered shamelessly. "Free points are free points."

Ethan's eyebrow twitched. Alden's smirk widened.

Alex glanced toward the trio—Charlotte, Seraphina, and Lilith.

A bead of sweat rolled down his temple.

"Why do I feel like I just stepped on a landmine ?" he whispered.

Even Ethan's gaze said it: Shameless.

Alex's eyes flicked sideways again—and immediately regretted it.

Charlotte. Seraphina. Lilith.

The three stood united in a death-glare formation, each one glaring at him like they'd all proposed to him at once, and he rejected them all at once just for fun.

"...This is gonna get rough," Alex whispered. Then added, "Not that kind of rough, if you know what I mean."

And then he smiled. A wicked smile.

"Oh well," he whispered. "Time to make things worse."

He stepped forward and clapped dramatically.

"Bravo!" he said mockingly. "That was beautiful. Entertaining, even. But... you all look so drained. So tired."

Ethan raised an eyebrow.

A dagger suddenly appeared in Alex's left hand. His sword gleamed in his right.

"So..." he grinned. "Shall we get started?"

Ethan laughed. "You sneaky bastard! Finally ready to fight?"

"I had my reasons for disappearing," Alex replied, smirking.

Ethan glanced at the three furious girls. "Dude, what the hell did you do to get three of the most powerful and beautiful girls this pissed at you?"

Alden added snidely, "What'd you do? Steal their jewelry, mock their makeup, and kick their dogs on the balls?"

Alex raised both hands in mock innocence. "Guys, I assure you, I have been a complete gentleman. The only crime I committed was being too good-looking. It's not my fault girls chase me. They just won't give up. It's a curse, really. I'm but a victim of fate."

Seraphina's jaw dropped.

Charlotte's smirk twitched violently.

Lilith's red eyes flared dangerously.

The three of them looked at Alex like he was that guy who gets rejected and then goes around telling everyone he dumped her.

"Unbelievable," Seraphina muttered.

Charlotte's fingers twitched like she was resisting the urge to draw her weapon.

Lilith's voice was icy. "You... insufferable insect."

The tension spiked. The wind grew heavier.

Even Ethan tensed.

Alden gave a low whistle. "Dude. You do realize you'll be attending the same academy as them after this exam, right?"

Ethan nodded quickly. "There's no escape. This isn't a one-time encounter. It's your future."

Sweat beaded on Alex's forehead. He gulped.

"...Guys," he said slowly, "if I die in the future... promise me... send flowers to my grave. And visit often."

Ethan and Alden, placing hands on their chests, replied solemnly, "Of course, brother. We'll bring candles too."

Alden nodded. "You'll be remembered. As the brave idiot who played with fire and got burned."

The moment ended when Charlotte stepped forward.

"Enough!" she growled. "Hand over the silver-haired bastard. Now."

As if on cue, Lilith released a pulse of pressure that cracked the ground beneath her.

"Who are you to give orders?" Lilith snapped. "Because of that insect, I've suffered substantial losses. He's mine."

The air itself shuddered under the weight of their hostility. Humans and vampires stood on the brink of another clash.

---

Meanwhile, in a grand chamber within Zenith Academy...

Seven massive chairs surrounded an obsidian round table. Alicia von Crestvale sat comfortably, sipping a honey drink.

Her perk as Student Council President—and one of the Seven Shades—meant she could hear everything happening during the exam. Not just visuals.

And right now, she was howling.

Holding her stomach, she laughed as Alex's voice echoed through the projection.

"This guy... accusing two princesses and a high noble of chasing him because he's too good-looking?! He's a complete lunatic!"

She wiped a tear from her eye.

She had started watching Alex out of curiosity. Her brother Alden had spoken of him once.

Now she was hooked.

She turned to her left. A golden-haired girl stood there, arms folded, watching the projection with icy focus.

Evelyn Williams.

Ethan's sister.

"Your brother seems to be doing fine," Alicia teased.

Evelyn didn't even blink. Just stared.

"...You're no fun," Alicia chuckled.

Then she leaned back. "This year's freshmen are going to be so much fun."

---

Back to Eastwood Waterfalls...

Tension.

Unbearable.

You could cut the air with a butter knife—and it'd still struggle.

Alden yawned. Loudly.

"So... are you all going to just talk or fight?" Alex said.

Everyone froze.

Then Ethan grinned. "You're right."

He vanished.

Reappeared beside Alex in a golden flash—blade drawn.

"Let's get started."

Alex blocked with his sword, skidding back.

Alden flared to life, mana surging from his legs as he shot forward.

"OH HELL YEAH!" he yelled, diving at Ethan.

Meanwhile—

Lilith lunged at Charlotte.

Seraphina's icy wings flared wide, and she dove in, supporting Charlotte.

Chaos.

Vampires vs Humans. The battle reignited.

Alden's strikes were wild but powerful. Each swing carried roaring flame, yet remained perfectly controlled. Ethan countered with elegant light-imbued techniques, each block shining like polished silver.

Alex darted between them like lightning. Slashes from Ethan, thrusts from Alden—he dodged, spun, redirected with pure skill.

"Too slow!" Alex called, parrying Alden's strike and using the momentum to flip over Ethan's incoming arc.

Ethan grinned. "Too flashy!"

Their blades clashed.

The sound echoed like thunder.

Sweat flew. Sparks danced.

Alden stomped, sending a wave of heat. Ethan sliced through it. Alex surfed the thermal wave, launching himself upward and landing a graze on Ethan's arm.

"First blood drawn, finally, Mr. Hero," Alex said smugly.

Ethan narrowed his eyes—surprised inside, but masking it well. "Beginner's luck."

Ethan's sword gleamed as he stepped in with sudden precision not giving alex a moment to dodge.

Steel kissed skin—Alex hissed as a thin line of blood trailed down his cheek.

"Now we're even," Ethan said coolly, lowering his blade slightly.

Alex touched the cut, then smirked. " This one was yours, golden boy."

His right hand shifted his sword to a looser grip.

But it was his left that moved with purpose—swift, fluid.

A dagger slid free from his sleeve, catching the light as it twirled into his hand.

Ethan's gaze narrowed, instantly raising his guard. "So You can also use a dagger?"

Alex rolled his shoulder. "You think I fight fair against monsters like you?"

He lunged, the dagger aiming low with deceptive speed.

Ethan deflected with the flat of his sword, sparks flying.

The thrill in their eyes said it all—neither would stop now.

Ethan swung with radiant speed, his blade like a ray of focused sunlight. Alex sidestepped, redirecting the slash with a flick of his dagger, then countered with a spin.

Alden intercepted, his blade a streak of red. Alex parried, sparks flying.

The three clashed in a symphony of steel.

Ethan ducked a slice and struck upward.

Alden blocked the attack with the flat of his blade and launched a fiery arc toward Alex.

Alex twirled midair, deflecting the fire with his sword and flipping back to gain distance.

Ethan pursued.

Alex smirked, dragging the heel of his boot into the dirt, pivoting, and launching a lightning-fast slash that forced Ethan to block with both hands.

Alden jumped into the fray with a roar. "I'm not letting you two have all the fun!"

The clash continued.

Each fighter predicting, reacting, and countering.

Steel clanged.

Ground shattered.

Wind howled from the force of their blows.

Then, as if by silent agreement—

All three took a step back.

And activated their trump cards.

'Resonance'

Ethan's body glowed golden—Light Resonance surged through him.

Alden ignited—Fire Resonance, red flames crackling wildly.

Alex grinned—Lightning Resonance, electricity crackling from his skin.

The waterfall behind them raged louder, answering the explosive surge of energy.

They locked eyes.

The real fight was about to begin.

And they charged again—this time, more ferociously.

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THE EXTRA WHO SHOULDN'T EXISTC55 : End of the Entrance exam (7) final

Chapter 55: Chapter 55 : End of the Entrance exam (7) final

All across the world, people watched with excitement. On every screen—from the smallest village pubs to royal viewing halls in gleaming skyscrapers—the same scene unfolded.

"Ladies and gentlemen, what an electrifying showdown we have!" the commentator roared. "On the left, the fiery genius Alden von Crestvale! To the right, the radiant sword of light, Ethan Williams! And in the center—who is this silver-haired candidate keeping up with the legends themselves?!"

The crowd went wild.

Across the battle-scarred arena, blades clashed and elements flared. Alex's blade sparkled with lightning, each step charged with electric arcs, as he matched the rhythm of the prodigies step for step.

---

Far away, in a dark room lit only by a massive screen, ten figures cloaked in shadow observed the feed with unnerving stillness. The symbol of a broken crown flickered on the wall behind them.

"Who is that silver-haired kid?" a deep voice asked.

"Name's Alex Dragonheart," another replied. "A nobody. A commoner who came out of nowhere."

"An unknown variable then," a third voice said, sharp and cold.

"Yes," a woman agreed. "Commoners are ripe with desires. If we play our cards right, we could mold him. Use him."

The man at the head of the table leaned forward, his face hidden behind a silver mask.

"Keep an eye on him. Gather intel. And when the time is right... offer him a deal."

"And if he refuses?" someone asked.

"Then kill him."

The room fell silent in consensus.

---

On the island, the battle exploded into high gear. Ethan radiated divine brilliance, activating his Light Resonance and illuminating the battlefield. Alden's flames flared to life as he entered Fire Resonance, and Alex's body surged with vibrant arcs—Lightning Resonance at full blast.

The ground shattered.

Boom! Boom! Boom!

Three figures blurred and collided like comets, trading blows with unrelenting speed—a flurry of fists, steel, elemental surges, and their sword arts.

Ethan ducked under a slash and countered with a light-blade swipe.

Alden intercepted Alex's flank with a fire-infused kick.

Ethan's light flared.

Alden's flames surged.

Alex's lightning arced around his body, crackling with raw energy.

A gust of wind pushed out from the trio as they lunged at each other again.

Alex's aura sparked violently. Lightning crackled across his skin.

『 Lightning Resonance 』

The blue bolts surged through his sword.

'Astral Void Rend Sword Art...'

『 First Form! (✦ Void Step ✦) 』

CRACK!

He vanished in a flicker of electric light—

—and reappeared between Ethan and Alden.

"Let's begin."

『 Second Form! (✦ Phantom Rend ✦) 』

His blade danced like lightning, leaving afterimages that zipped around both opponents. The clones struck in tandem.

Ethan's eyes narrowed.

『 Dawnbreaker Judgement – Second Form! (✦ Prismatic Guard ✦) 』

Blades of condensed light, empowered by his Light Resonance, rotated around him—each matching a different elemental hue. They spun and countered Alex's strikes, exploding on impact.

BOOM!

One afterimage burst in a flash of fire.

Another in blinding ice.

The third got through—

Clang! Ethan parried just in time, sparks flying.

Then—

『 Sovereign Blade – First Form! (✦ Radiant Dusk ✦) 』

Alden's Fire Resonance flared as his sword slashed through the air, sending a wave of golden flames at both of them.

Alex dodged left.

Ethan vaulted over the arc mid-air.

『 First Move! (✦ Radiant Edge ✦) 』

His blade ignited with light.

Then—

FOOM! It morphed into a lance of fire.

He hurled it at Alden.

『 Second Form! (✦ Moonlight Pierce ✦) 』

Alden's eyes glowed.

He met the fire-lance with a piercing thrust of his sword, enhanced with a burning aura. The two collided mid-air—

KA-CRACK!

Flame burst in all directions.

Alex didn't miss the opportunity.

『 Third Form! (✦ Celestial Flow ✦) 』

With a fluid spin, he bypassed the flames and glided toward Alden—his movement like flowing water yet charged with voltage.

He slashed upward—

『 Dawnbreaker Judgement – Third Move! (✦ Mirage Step ✦) 』

Ethan vanished, becoming a blur of light.

Behind you.

Ethan reappeared, blade poised.

『 Fourth Move! (✦ Severing Ray ✦) 』

A beam of pure light-energy, now condensed into a Thunder Cannon, blasted out.

Alex used—

『 Void Step! 』

He dodged it barely, reappearing behind Alden—

—but Alden had sensed him.

『 Third Form! (✦ Stellar Waltz ✦) 』

His blade twirled in a graceful rhythm, radiating intense heat. Sparks of flame scattered as the sword danced in circular arcs, pushing Alex back.

"Fine. Let's try THIS."

『 Fourth Form! (✦ Bladestorm Mirage ✦) 』

Alex roared, lightning exploding from him.

His blade split into a storm of afterimages, striking in every direction.

ZRRRT! ZRRRT! ZRRRT!

Ethan and Alden blocked and dodged, but some strikes grazed them.

Alden leapt up—

『 Sovereign Blade – Fourth Form! (✦ Emberfall Requiem ✦) 』

A fiery whirlwind engulfed him as he spun mid-air, sword glowing.

He crashed into the arena with a massive explosion, sending everyone flying.

BOOM!!

Smoke rose. The platform cracked.

The crowd gasped.

Alex stood, panting, lightning crackling from his shoulders.

Ethan emerged from the smoke, coat burned at the edges, lips curled into a grin.

Alden wiped blood from his mouth, fire dancing around him.

The three stared at each other, hearts pounding.

Bruised. Burned. Smiling.

Blood dripped from Alex's shoulder, but he stood firm.

Yet slowly as the fight goes no, he began to falter.

'They're good... too good.

I knew it. They've been trained since they were kids. Every step they take, every move—it's polished and refined.

And me? Four months... that's all I had.'

His breathing grew ragged. Stamina waning.

Still, he fought.

Just a little more... he thought, eyes flickering to the other side of the battlefield, where humans and vampires clashed.

He was waiting for something.

---

Elsewhere on the battlefield, chaos reigned.

Lilith's fury descended upon Seraphina and Charlotte like a tempest. Seraphina's icy shields clashed with Lilith's abyssal fire, while Charlotte weaved spells and controlling the gravity around them.

"You'll pay for interfering!" Lilith screeched.

Lilith Noctis Bloodrose, Vampire Princess, danced across the field with elegance and carnage. Blood-forged blades floated around her like petals in a storm.

"Blood Art – Crimson Bloom."

A swirl of blades launched forward, slicing through a group of human candidates who barely had time to scream. Lilith twirled mid-air, laughing as blood mist shimmered in her wake.

"We will see." Charlotte Evans Avaloria, her white hair glowing under the simulated sky, raised a hand calmly.

"Gravity Zone."

A sudden gravitational pull yanked the blood blades downward, crashing them into the dirt. Lilith raised an eyebrow.

BOOM.

A rain of crystal spears fell between them.

"Frozen Hymn."

Seraphina Starlight landed gracefully beside Charlotte, her pale blue cloak dusted with frost.

They moved.

Lilith vanished and reappeared in a blur, striking at Charlotte with blood-tipped claws.

Charlotte bent space around her, redirecting each strike. Seraphina summoned icy barriers, her crystalline lances crashing into Lilith from behind.

The vampire princess hissed and twirled, blocking with her blades—one grazing Seraphina's cheek.

BOOM! A shockwave burst outward as all three clashed in the center—blood, ice, and warped gravity colliding in a storm of elemental fury.

Nearby, vampire and human candidates clashed brutally.

One vampire ripped through a lightning user, only to be pierced by a holy lance.

A human tech-mage unleashed a mana cannon—only for it to be turned to red mist by a blood curse.

Screams, spells, and steel filled the air.

Then—

Suddenly, the sky shimmered.

A golden glyph pulsed above the battlefield, and a mechanical voice boomed across the arena—calm, yet filled with pressure.

[ Attention all examinees: Remaining candidates – 2,100. ]

Lilith, breathing hard, glanced at Charlotte and Seraphina. A small grin tugged at her lips.

Their duel paused—but not ended.

The battlefield still roared with blood and ambition.

Vampires and humans engaged in a savage skirmish nearby—magic beams, weaponry, and blood mixing into chaos.

---

A deafening chime echoed across the skies.

[ Attention all examinees: Remaining candidates – 2,100. ]

Alex's eyes gleamed.

"Finally."

He turned toward Ethan and Alden with a smile so wide it sent a shiver down their backs.

"What are you planning now, you bastard?" Alden asked.

"And wipe that creepy grin off your face—you're losing, remember?" Ethan added.

"I'm just happy to see you both so full of energy," Alex replied cheerfully.

Both took an instinctive step back, shielding their chests.

"You bastards, it's not like that!" Alex snapped.

The trio clashed again—grinning like madmen, slashing and dodging.

Then suddenly... Alex stopped.

The world slowed.

"I'm happy, really... but it's time to end this."

He pulled out a silver-etched talisman.

Ethan and Alden paused.

"While I disappeared earlier, I planted the same explosives I used to awaken the monster. On both the vampire and human factions. This talisman will trigger them.

I estimate over a hundred eliminations. That's why I waited..."

Their eyes widened.

"Once I tear this—boom. At least 100 candidates go bye-bye. Which means the exam will be over.

You've got ten seconds to warn Charlotte and Seraphina. I know you guys are good friends with them. And I'm a gentleman, so I'm telling you now. Go."

Alex smiled—innocently.

Ethan and Alden's brains short-circuited.

Then suddenly—

"SERA!" Ethan screamed.

"CHAR!!" Alden bellowed.

They blasted off in same directions.

"See you both in 30 seconds!" Alex called. "Don't miss me too much!"

As ethan and Alden started running towards Charlotte and seraphina.

Lilith's attention shifted too alex.

Alex eyes also darted to Lilith, who, for some reason, was also staring at him. Their gazes met and she saw the talisman.

Alex muttered something under his breath, and Lilith's eyes widened in shock—she understood it.

It was something like: "Defend yourself if you can, princess."

She immediately formed a barrier, glaring daggers at him.

Alex tore the talisman.

Boom.

The ground shook with coordinated explosions. Smoke, debris, and bodies flew. Screams echoed.

Dozens of candidates were vaporized instantly, turning into light particles.

Dust clouded the entire battlefield.

Then—

An announcement echoed in the sky:

[Attention all examinees: The top 2000 candidates are confirmed. The Entrance Exam is over. All surviving candidates will now be teleported back to Zenith Academy.]

A stunned silence.

And then... relief.

From one million, down to 2000.

The survivors blinked, catching their breath, as teleportation lights wrapped around their bodies.

They had done it.

They were in.

Meanwhile, Alex looked toward the sky—tired but smiling.

And then—he vanished in a flash of silver light.

---

A/N:

The Entrance Exam went on longer than planned, so I decided to end it here. I apologise if some of you did not find it satisfying but we have to move the story forward. Thanks for sticking through the chaos! Next stop: Zenith Academy.

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THE EXTRA WHO SHOULDN'T EXISTC56 : Acknowledgement

Chapter 56: Chapter 56 : Acknowledgement

High above the Earth, nestled amidst the clouds and suspended within the azure vastness of the sky, stood the magnificent Zenith Academy—a structure so grand, so mythical, that it defied the boundaries of imagination.

Floating islands interconnected by glowing energy bridges, crystalline waterfalls that flowed into nothingness, and towers so tall they pierced the very sky made up the architectural marvel of the academy.

The air shimmered with the hum of powerful enchantments and ancient technology—an ethereal blend of magic and science.

Zenith Academy wasn't just a place of education—it was a realm of legends.

Countless figures who had shaped the world—kings, queens, innovators, war generals, and world-renowned heroes—all had once walked these very paths.

To many across the world, the academy was a dream too distant to reach. It was a temple of destiny where only the chosen few were allowed to step in.

And today, 2,000 cadets had done just that.

They had earned the right to learn in a place others could only dream of.

As the light faded and the ground beneath stabilized, a collective exhale filled the space.

"Haaaaaah... it's over."

"WE MADE IT!"

"I—I'm alive... We did it!"

The reactions were electric. Some students collapsed onto the smooth marble floor, laughing hysterically.

"I made it, Mom! Your son made it!" one cadet shouted at the top of his lungs, tears streaming down his face.

Others cried softly, embracing their teammates. There were high-fives, shouts, and exhausted chuckles.

But then, the air shifted as a powerful presence flooded the auditorium, taking everyone's attention.

The atmosphere grew heavy—like gravity itself had intensified.

A silence spread like wildfire across the room as a single presence made itself known at the center stage.

There stood Aldric Verlane, the Headmaster of Zenith Academy.

A living legend.

He radiated power.

"Damn..." Alex muttered from the crowd, a wide grin plastered across his face. "This old man really knows how to make an entry. He even looks more badass appearing like that."

Aldric's gaze shifted to him for a moment, as if he had heard him, surprising Alex.

But just as quickly, his gaze shifted to all the candidates present.

Alex wasn't grinning only because of Aldric's entry, though. No. He was grinning because he had done it.

He had achieved something that only legends in this world had achieved.

Rank 1.

He had done it. He had shattered expectations. No longer just a background character in someone else's tale—he was here to make his mark.

He defeated the prodigies. Hell, he even beat the protagonist.

But then just as quickly his attention shifted to Aldric.

Aldric spoke, his voice deep and commanding, yet oddly warm.

"Congratulations," he said, "Cadets."

That single word echoed in the chamber.

Not candidates.

Cadets.

A buzz rippled across all the cadets, filling their chests with pride. They had made it.

"You've survived your first war—that we call the Zenith Entrance Exam. From over one million hopefuls, you 2,000 have made it here today.

I have no doubt it was hell. Many of you were pushed beyond your limits. You fought, bled, and endured. And you stand here not by chance—but by your own merit, because you proved that you are the chosen ones in a herd of one million candidates."

Some cadets straightened up with pride. Others wiped tears from their eyes.

"Some of you may feel," Aldric continued, his tone sharpening, "that the exam was unfair. That nobles had more resources—better training, enchanted gear, secret techniques. And you're not wrong."

Whispers spread across the room. Heads nodded.

"But remember this, Cadets..."

His voice echoed.

"Life. Has. Never. Been. Fair."

Aldric stepped forward, eyes sweeping across the room.

"Those who believe in fairness live in a fantasy. The world is ruled by power, by determination, by those who choose to rise despite the odds. The sooner you accept that, the sooner you'll begin your path to greatness.

You may have started with nothing—but that changes now. What you become here will shape your future. Whether you were born a prince or a pauper, it doesn't matter anymore. Power does not bow to titles. Power bows to resolve.

And here in this academy, status and rank do not matter—even if you were a beggar before coming here. It's all irrelevant now.

Because moving forward, you will forge your own paths and choose what to become."

The cadets listened in stunned silence.

Some clenched their fists.

Others whispered:

"...Damn, that's motivational."

"...No excuses now."

"...I'll prove myself."

"Zenith Academy will give you the tools—but you will decide what to build."

Then, with a nod, Aldric finished:

"Your instructors will guide you from here. Good luck, Cadets."

And with that, he vanished—like smoke in the wind.

"Holy crap," someone muttered. "That was better than a war speech."

Another chuckled. "He sure knows how to fire up a crowd. If he ran for president, I'd vote twice."

Then, a minute later, the stage shimmered again.

And a new presence stepped forward.

The crowd stilled again.

Selena Vega.

"Holy mother of—"

"Now that I've been admitted to Zenith Academy, I'd fail an exam just to see her scold me."

Even the girls were stunned.

"Is this what perfection looks like?"

Some whispered in admiration.

Some in envy.

"Congratulations, cadets," Selena said, her voice cool and confident. "You've broken through the first wall of success. You've passed the Zenith Entrance Exam—a feat many dream of, but few achieve."

She let the words settle.

"However, this is just the beginning. You will face many more challenges, and Zenith Academy exists to prepare you for them.

Starting today, you are to be assigned temporary dormitories. Each room will have two cadets—male and female separate, of course.

Take the next two days to recover, explore the campus, and prepare yourselves. Uniforms will be delivered tomorrow morning. Orientation will take place the day after—an event broadcast to the entire world."

The cadets stirred.

"The world will be watching... to see who rises, and who fades."

Then her gaze, so casually cold, flickered for a moment—to Alex.

His smile faltered for half a second.

But her eyes moved on just as quickly.

"And of course," she added, "the spotlight will naturally be on the top cadets of this year's batch. Especially Rank 1."

Murmurs rose across the hall.

Some in awe.

Some in envy.

Others in quiet determination.

Nobody knew who the Rank 1 was—hell, they didn't even know who was in the top 20.

"And as expected," Selena continued, "the top-ranking cadets will receive better dorms, access to high-tier training chambers, and more resources.

Top 50 will be in the Special Class.

But all of that will happen after the orientation. Until then, you will live in the temporary dorms and relax your minds and bodies—because you really need it."

She gave a final smile.

"Okay, that's all. You are dismissed. Our staff will guide you towards your dorms."

With a wave, she turned and left.

Half the male cadets sighed like their souls had just left.

"She's unreal."

"Step on me, Miss Vega."

Alex watched her go and muttered with a smirk."I know I've said it before, but I'll say it again: Damn... that ass is illegal."

"YOU BASTARD!"

Before Alex could turn to see who it was—

Alden von Crestvale pounced like a hunting wolf, slamming into Alex's side with the full force of pent-up frustration and noble athleticism.

Alex yelped. "Agh! My spine!"

After seeing who it was, Alex yelled, "You asshole! What happened to 'being a graceful High Noble'!?"

"Grace went out the window when you blew us up with—both the human and vampire factions. Including the monster you unleashed on us," Alden growled, gripping Alex's collar.

Ethan strolled in behind them, the corners of his lips curved in a calm smirk. "You've really got a talent for pushing people's buttons, Alex."

Alex, now being lightly shaken by Alden, flashed a sheepish grin. "I call it... tactical misdirection."

"You emotionally blackmailed us with Seraphina and Charlotte," Alden said, voice rising.

Ethan nodded slowly, feigning disappointment. "Seraphina even told me, 'A true hero wouldn't fall for such obvious bait.'"

Alex shrugged. "That counts for something, right? Tactics... with a bit of flair."

A moment of silence.

Then—both Alden and Ethan groaned.

Alden stepped back and crossed his arms. Ethan just shook his head.

They exchanged a glance, and for a second, the air shifted—no more banter. Just unspoken understanding.

Alden spoke first, tone steadier. "You outplayed us, Alex—and came out on top."

Ethan added, eyes meeting Alex's. "It wasn't luck. You used your surroundings... even your enemies. You didn't just fight smarter. You commanded."

Alex blinked, the grin on his face softening. "So... you're saying I'm awesome?"

Alden groaned again. "Why do we even try?"

Ethan gave a quiet laugh. "Because we still have hope he'll stop being so damn smug. Just like you."

Alden clicked his tongue.

Alex grinned wider. "No promises."

The two sighed in perfect unison.

Then, both turned to him with identical smirks.

"Okay," Alden began, "we acknowledge that you won..."

"...but next time, you won't be able to play your cheap tricks," Ethan added, patting Alex's shoulder.

"Cheap?!" Alex gasped. "I call them 'cost-effective genius strategies.'"

Alden rolled his eyes. "Next time, you're going down."

Alex grinned, throwing an arm over both their shoulders. "Then I better make next time even worse."

"You smug bastard!" Alden laughed, putting him in a headlock. "Trying to make us look bad in front of the world."

"As if your ugly face needed help doing that," Alex grunted.

Alden's hold became tighter.

Ethan laughed at that. "Hey, I'll be number two any day if it means I don't have to deal with the spotlight."

They broke into laughter, drawing stares from nearby cadets.

But they didn't care because after everything they'd been through in the entrance exam, they deserved the moment.

The entrance exam was over.

And now... peace tasted sweet.

But then...

Alex paused.

He felt it.

A wave of powerful presences... heading straight toward him.

He turned.

A group of human and vampire cadets was approaching, all eyes locked on him.

Then he noticed...

Three beauties leading the pack.

"Oh... crap."

Alex blinked.

"I almost forgot about them?"

He turned to ask for help from Alden and Ethan, only to see that neither of them was standing there anymore.

"Those two bastards."

A group of cadets had gathered, both humans and vampires alike. But what truly drew attention were the three girls at the front—their identities and overwhelming beauty.

One had long white hair and violet eyes, dressed in regal noble attire—Princess Charlotte Evans Avaloria.

Another had crimson eyes and wore a gothic black dress—Lilith Noctis Bloodrose.

And the last had icy blue hair and a beauty so mesmerizing that nearby candidates couldn't help but stare—Seraphina Starlight.

The white-haired one stepped forward with an icy smile that made Alex's skin crawl.

"Alex Dragonheart? We need to talk."

Alex sighed.

"...I knew it. Being rank one would come back to bite me in the ass."

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THE EXTRA WHO SHOULDN'T EXISTC57 : Self interest's

Chapter 57: Chapter 57 : Self interest's

Alex Dragonheart stood tall—or as tall as his tensed posture would allow—inside the grand auditorium of Zenith Academy.

Moments ago, he was riding the high of clearing the entrance exam, feeling like the main character for once. Now? He was sweating.

From places he didn't even know could sweat.

Before him stood not one, not two, but three of the most powerful, dangerous, and influential girls in the entire academy.

Together, they looked less like students and more like a final boss squad.

At the center of this elegant threat trio stood Charlotte Evans Avaloria, the First Princess of the Avaloria Empire.

She radiated authority and beauty, with an amused glint in her eyes.

To her right was Seraphina Starlight, heir to Marquis Starlight and a mage prodigy known for he prowess in ice magic.

And to the left—as if the universe wanted to see him suffer—stood Lilith Noctis Bloodrose, the crimson-eyed vampire princess known for her dark nature, and let's be honest, a mild case of murderous intent.

All of them except Lilith had the same expression.

A smile.

Not the friendly kind, mind you. But Like the predator who sees a cornered rabbit and is debating whether to eat it now or play with it first.

"Hello, Mr. Lady Killer," Charlotte said sweetly, with a voice that held amusement and menace in equal measure. "Can we have some of your time?"

Alex mouth twitched she was definitely teasing him for his earlier comments in the exam.

But he straightened up like a soldier before an imperial inspection, hands clasped behind his back.

"Your Highness Princess Charlotte," he said, bowing slightly. "It's an honor."

He turned and greeted Seraphina with a formal nod. "Lady Starlight."

Then, cautiously, he glanced at Lilith.

"Princess Bloodrose."

Lilith was only staring at him as if she could attack him at any moment.

Charlotte chuckled, clearly amused at the beads of sweat now forming at Alex's temple. "No need to be so formal, Alex. I just wanted to thank you."

He blinked.' Thank me'?

She continued, voice soft but edged. "Thank you for almost 'eliminating me' during the entrance exam. If Alden hadn't warned me about those explosives you set, I'd be writing this thank-you note from something red."

Alex stiffened. Was that sarcasm? A threat? A joke?

She smiled wider.

"You caused us trouble, Mr. Dragonheart. And trouble... must be compensated for. Don't you agree?"

Alex's mind was already spinning. He wasn't stupid. No, Charlotte wasn't mad.

No, this was her way of reaching out. Politely veiled in thorns, yes, but it meant one thing:

'She sees potential in me.'

The exam was over. The rankings were in. And Charlotte, always planning three steps ahead, was now trying to form connections with useful people.

Alex quickly weighed the pros and cons. He knew from the game that getting on Charlotte's bad side was a terrible idea. Aligning with her might bring complications, yes, but also opportunity. Carefully, he nodded.

"If Your Highness feels I owe compensation," he said smoothly, "then I'll agree to fulfill one request. As long as it's reasonable, of course."

Charlotte clapped her hands in delight.

"Perfect! I expected nothing less from someone with your intellect."

Alex gave a pained smile. Why does that sound more like a threat than a compliment?

Then she turned to Seraphina. "Do you want anything from him, Seraphina?"

Alex's eyebrow twitched.

She's trying to get as much out of me as possible... classic politician move.

But he did not say anything.

Seraphina met Alex's eyes, her own grey ones reflecting a curious gleam.

She tilted her head thoughtfully, then said, "Nothing comes to mind. For now."

She smirked.

"But...We can think about it in the future."

Charlotte chuckled. "Don't worry, Alex. We have plenty of time in the academy. You'll be seeing a lot of us."

That did not sound reassuring.

"It was nice meeting you, Alex Dragonheart," Charlotte said, turning gracefully with a swirl of her regal outfit. Seraphina followed, her blue hair catching the auditorium lights.

Alex had just exhaled a breath of relief as Charlotte and Seraphina left with their entourage. Their teasing, veiled warnings, and playful threats had left him emotionally drained.

But before he could properly relax, a chill ran down his spine.

He turned his gaze—only to meet a pair of crimson eyes staring at him from a few steps away.

Lilith Noctis Bloodrose.

The Vampire Princess.

Her presence was quiet—too quiet. Her black attire hugged her slender figure, her long black hair flowing like liquid night behind her, and her red eyes... they were glowing faintly.

She didn't blink.

She didn't move.

She simply watched.

Alex's throat went dry. His instincts screamed at him—predator.

It wasn't fear exactly. It was something deeper.

A flicker of a grin formed on her lips.

Then it grew.

And grew.

Until it became a wild, unhinged smile, filled with something between madness and curiosity.

Alex unconsciously took half a step back.

"Uh... hi?" he offered.

She didn't answer right away. Instead, she tilted her head ever so slightly, as if studying a strange new puzzle. The grin never left her lips.

"You..." she finally said, her voice soft, lyrical... and absolutely laced with danger.

"You smell... interesting."

Alex blinked. "Smell?"

"Like secrets. Like blood spilled by intention... and blood you're trying so hard to avoid spilling," she said, stepping forward, her voice now a whisper only he could hear. "You're wrapped in so many layers of masks, it's almost... intoxicating."

Alex took a step back.'What the hell is this crazy psycho on about.'

Her tongue briefly flicked across her lip.

"I want to tear you apart right now and feast on your blood," she said with a teasing sigh, "but..."

Then she stopped.

Her grin faded—just slightly. Her expression twitched, as though something had interrupted her thoughts. A moment passed.

Then she laughed.

A light, musical, bone-chilling laugh that made his skin crawl.

"You'll pay me back. Remember that."

And without another word, she turned sharply on her heel and walked away.

Even her maid, Isadora Vale, who had stood silently by her side like a cold statue, looked shocked by the sudden shift. Because just moments ago, Lilith had looked ready to tear him apart.

Suddenly coming out of her thoughts, she hurried to catch up to her mistress without questioning a word.

Alex stood frozen, lips parted, his heart hammering in his chest.

'What... just happened.?'

He stared after her, eyes narrowed. "What did she mean by that? Just how does she want me to pay her back?"

'Did the voice in her head tell her something again?'

He didn't have time to dwell on it. A nearby staff member in academy robes clapped his hands.

"All cadets! Follow me to the temporary dorms now!"

Alex exhaled again. Back to normalcy. Hopefully.

The first-year cadets were led out of the auditorium, down a series of spiral platforms and through a sleek bridge made of blue crystal that shimmered in the sunlight.

The bridge led to one of Zenith Academy's many small islands floating on the sky.

Soon we reached the dorms that we would be staying in for two days today and tomorrow.

It wasn't overly luxurious, which made sense—these weren't permanent accommodations. Just a place to house the cadets until the formal sorting began.

Alex took in the building. It was minimalist in design: white stone, sleek lines, and a faint magical aura that hinted at automatic climate control, soundproofing, and surveillance.

He was assigned Room 777.

"Lucky number," he muttered. He stepped inside and blinked.

The dorm was... decent.

Actually, it was great.

Alex lay back on the surprisingly comfortable bed of his dormitory, staring up at the ceiling as the soft hum of the central cooling system played in the background.

The room was modest but clean, far better than the crumbling walls and leaky ceilings of the house he and Lily had once shared.

A warm glow came from the lights that bathed the room in a faint golden hue. His bag was tossed in the corner, his coat hanging off a chair, and the silence, for once, was comforting.

He exhaled deeply.

"What a day," he muttered, running a hand through his hair.

His mind, however, refused to rest.

Charlotte Evans Avaloria.

She had approached him with a smile, a smirk, and wrapped her words like silk, making demands while acting playful.

She was the type who never asked unless she already knew the answer. A chessmaster who moved three steps ahead.

But Alex?

He grinned to himself.

He was a gamer. A strategist. A survivor.

So... she thinks she can use me, huh? Alex thought, his blue eyes narrowing slightly.

She sees potential, thinks I'm some wild card she can keep in her pocket. Fine. Let her believe that.

He turned his gaze to the ceiling again, folding one arm behind his head.

"I'm not a pawn, Charlotte Evans Avaloria. I'm not even a knight on your chessboard. I'm the bastard playing with a different board entirely—one with dangers, hidden pieces, and rules you've never seen."

Alex's eyes gleamed with a dangerous mix of cunning and ambition. "Use me? Sure. But every favor I grant, every string you think you tie around me... will lead straight to you in a bigger game."

Then he smirked.

"After all... if the empire's first princess wants to bet on me, who am I to stop her? I just hope she doesn't realize too late—"

"—that I bet several times higher gat her."

"Because my goals aren't small. I'm not here to serve someone's ambitions. I'm here to surpass them."

There was a dangerous glint in his eyes as his voice dropped to a whisper.

"While she plays politics, I'll be rewriting the rules of the game itself."

He closed his eyes, the grin still tugging at the edge of his lips.

"Let the princess believe she's in control... It'll make it more fun when she realizes she never was."

His thoughts paused as his gaze flicked sideways and he remembered something.

"Wait... this room is meant for two people."

As if the universe was enjoying this joke, the door creaked open.

A figure entered.

Alex turned, expecting a stranger. Maybe some noble brat or a brooding swordsman type.

He froze.

"You?!"

The other guy mirrored his expression.

"You?!"

They both stared at each other.

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