Lady Ioanna's gaze swept across the room, her eyes shining with a warm intensity as she observed the students immersed in their studies. Her lips curved into a subtle smirk, radiating an aura of quiet confidence. Eine, sensing a shift in her demeanor, approached her with a concerned expression.

  "Lady Ioanna, are you okay?" he asked, his voice low and gentle.

  Lady Ioanna's attention shifted to Eine, her smile transforming into a determined grin. "I'm alright, Eine. I have a really good feeling inside," she replied, her voice tinged with conviction.

  Eine's curiosity was piqued, his eyes narrowing slightly. "What may that be, Lady Ioanna?" he pressed on, his tone laced with interest.

  Lady Ioanna's gaze seemed to drift into the distance, her focus turned inward. "I have a really good feeling that Jairen isn't dead. I just feel it," she said, her words laced with a quiet certainty.

  Lani, seated nearby, was engrossed in a dusty tome bound in worn leather. The cover read "The Art of Blue Ghost Eyes'' in faded gold lettering. As she delved into the pages, she became aware of Lady Ioanna's conversation with Eine.

  Her interest piqued, she listened intently, her eyes darting between the book and the pair. Though she remained silent, her expression betrayed a growing curiosity. She continued reading, her fingers tracing the pages with a quiet reverence, as if the words held secrets waiting to be unearthed.

  As Lani's attention was divided between the book and the conversation, Kael's thunderous exclamation shattered the calm atmosphere, causing her to jolt upright. "YEAHHHHH!!!!!" Kael's triumphant cry echoed through the room, his face alight with excitement.

  Jack's curiosity was instantly piqued, and he turned to Kael with a questioning grin. "Hey, bro, what's going on?" he asked, his eyes sparkling with interest.

  Kael's response was electrifying. "I just broke my limit! My Wind Resonance has reached a new level!" he exclaimed, his voice trembling with exhilaration.

  Jack's eyes widened in awe. "What did you discover?" he pressed on, his enthusiasm palpable.

  Kael's grin grew mischievous as he beckoned Jack closer. "Alright, look at this!" he said, his eyes gleaming with anticipation.

  With a deep breath, Kael began to chant, his voice resonating through the air. "Gust Wind Breeze, flow around me, protect me from my foe..." As he spoke, his eyes blazed with an intense red glow, signaling the activation of his Ghost Eyes.

  The air around Kael began to swirl, as if responding to his words. A whirlwind of wind erupted, encasing him in a protective shield. The gusts danced around him, their gentle caress belied by their fierce velocity.

  But then, something extraordinary happened. The wind itself became visible, taking on a life of its own. It churned and eddied, a fiery red hue that perfectly mirrored Kael's blazing Ghost Eyes.

  The room fell silent, the only sound the soft howling of the wind as it swirled around Kael. Lani's eyes were wide with wonder, her book forgotten in her lap. Lady Ioanna's gaze was fixed intently on Kael, a knowing glint in her eye. Eine's expression was thoughtful, his mind racing with the implications of Kael's discovery.

  As Jack exclaims, "Woah, that's so cool!" Kael's wind shield begins to waver and dissipates, leaving him gasping for air. He collapses to the ground, a mix of exhaustion and elation on his face. "I still can't get the hang of it, but hey, it was a second longer than last time!" he says with a chuckle, his eyes sparkling with determination.

  Lani, who had been observing the scene with a hint of amusement, can't help but secretly chuckle at Kael's misfortune. She tries to stifle her grin, but her eyes betray her mirth. She quickly composes herself and approaches Lady Ioanna, requesting a private audience.

  "Lady Ioanna, may I have a word with you?" Lani asks, her voice soft and respectful. Her eyes flicker towards Kael, who is still catching his breath, before refocusing on Lady Ioanna.

  Lady Ioanna's expression turns thoughtful, and she nods graciously. "Of course, Lani. Let us step outside for a moment." She gestures towards the door, and Lani follows her, their footsteps quiet on the stone floor.

  As they exit the room, Lani's curiosity is noticeable. What does she wish to discuss with Lady Ioanna?

  Lani's expression softens, her eyes searching Lady Ioanna's face for assurance. "I overheard your conversation with Sir Eine, and you said you think Jairen is alive?" she asks, her voice laced with a mix of skepticism and longing.

  Lady Ioanna's nod is resolute, her gaze unwavering. "He has to be... and I wholeheartedly believe he is," she affirms, her conviction radiating like a warm embrace.

  Lani's doubt begins to falter, replaced by a glimmer of hope. Lady Ioanna's unwavering faith is like a balm to her soul, soothing her fears and reigniting a spark of optimism. A gentle smile blossoms on Lani's lips, her eyes shining with a renewed sense of possibility.

  "I want to believe that," Lani says, her voice barely above a whisper. "I really do." Her gaze drifts off, lost in thought, as if envisioning Jairen's return.

  Lady Ioanna's expression is compassionate, her eyes filled with understanding. She places a reassuring hand on Lani's shoulder, her touch warm and comforting. "We will find him, Lani. I promise you that. We will leave no stone unturned, and we will bring him home."

  In this moment, Lani's hope is rekindled, her heart filled with a sense of purpose. She knows that with Lady Ioanna's guidance and support, they will indeed find Jairen and bring him back to where he belongs. The journey ahead will be long and arduous, but with faith and determination, they will overcome any obstacle and reunite their family once more.

  *Flashback*

  Lady Ioanna's eyes glaze over, lost in the memories flooding her mind. She sees herself fighting alongside Yoon, their movements synchronized as they take down enemy after enemy. But then, the Roaming Ghost appears, its presence striking fear into Lady Ioanna's heart. She screams "YOON!" as her friend smiles reassuringly, but the scene quickly darkens as the Roaming Ghost proves to be a formidable foe.

  Ryker, not yet the principal but a skilled knight, joins the fray, only to be dodged by the Roaming Ghost. Yoon attempts to attack with his sword, Loom Walker, but it's ineffective against the ghost's ethereal form. As Yoon is bound in chains and screams in pain, Lady Ioanna's distress grows. She rushes to save her friend, but the flashback ends abruptly, leaving her gasping for breath.

  Back to present

  Lani's concerned voice pierces the air, snapping Lady Ioanna back to reality. "Ma'am, are you okay?" Lani asks, her brow furrowed with worry.

  Lady Ioanna shakes her head, trying to clear the cobwebs. "Just planning on how to find Jairen," she replies, her voice steady despite the turmoil brewing inside.

  But deep down, Lady Ioanna knows she can't reveal the truth to Lani. The memories she's uncovered are too painful, too raw. She's not ready to confront the demons of her past, not yet. So she keeps her secrets locked away, hidden behind a mask of determination and hope.

  Eine's irritation is palpable as he emerges with a scowl on his face. "Lady Ioanna! Do you know where Valric is? I think he ate my leftovers in the fridge!" he exclaims, his voice laced with annoyance.

  Lady Ioanna's expression turns stern, her eyes narrowing slightly. "One, don't yell my name unless it's an emergency. And two, I sent Valric to the last known site of Jairen's body. He has the task of finding Jairen," she replies, her tone firm but measured.

  Eine's face flushes with embarrassment as he apologizes for yelling her name. "When he gets back, I want to fight with him! I clearly had my name on my leftovers, yet he still ate them!" he exclaims, throwing his arms up in exasperation and storming off.

  Lady Ioanna and Lani exchange a knowing glance, their lips twitching in amusement. They secretly laugh at Eine's antics, their mirth a gentle whisper in the air. "It seems Eine has a bit of a temper," Lani whispers, her eyes sparkling with mirth.

  Lady Ioanna's smile is subtle, her eyes crinkling at the corners. "Indeed. But we'll let him cool off for now. We have more pressing matters to attend to." Her gaze drifts back to the training room, her mind refocusing on the task at hand.

  Lady Ioanna and Lani re-enter the training room, and their attention is drawn to Ito, who is shirtless and performing a handstand in the meditation area. Lani approaches him quietly, trying to sneak up on him, and asks, "Whatcha doing there?"

  Ito, still in his handstand, side-eyes Lani but maintains his focus, his body positioned perfectly. "Your plan will not work on me, Lani. I have complete focus," he says confidently.

  Lani nods her head, impressed. "Touche, Ito. But what does doing handstands do for your training?" she inquires, curiosity getting the better of her.

  Ito explains, "It helps me focus. And since I'm multitasking, it'll also help me when I need to focus in battle and summon the power of Eid."

  Lani's eyes light up with understanding. "Ahh, I see," she says, taking a seat next to Ito to observe him further.

  As they watch, Ito continues his handstand, his body a picture of poise and control. His focus is unwavering, his dedication to his training evident in every movement. Lady Ioanna and Lani exchange a knowing glance, both impressed by Ito's discipline and determination. The air is filled with a sense of calm, the only sound Ito's steady breathing as he maintains his handstand.

  As Jack focuses his energy, a massive earth shield begins to take form in front of him. The ground trembles slightly as the rock shield rises from the earth, its surface rugged and unyielding. Kael's eyes widen in excitement as he watches Jack's creation take shape.

  "HELL YEAH BRO!" Kael exclaims, pumping his fist in the air as Jack's shield reaches its full height. The earth shield towers over them, its presence imposing and powerful.

  Jack's face sets in determination, his eyes gleaming with a sense of pride and accomplishment. His connection to the earth and its resonance is palpable, and the shield seems to hum with energy.

  Lani and Lady Ioanna approach the pair, their expressions filled with interest and admiration. "Well done, Jack!" Lani says, her voice filled with enthusiasm. "Your control over the earth's resonance is impressive!"

  Lady Ioanna nods in agreement. "Indeed, Jack. Your shield is a testament to your growing skills. I'm eager to see how you'll utilize this ability in our upcoming challenges."

  As they speak, Ito approaches the group, his handstand still perfect. "Earth shield, huh? That's a new one. Can't wait to see how it holds up in battle!" He grins, his competitive spirit sparking.

  The atmosphere is electric, the group's excitement and anticipation palpable. They know that their training is far from over, but for now, they bask in the thrill of discovery and the joy of pushing their limits.

  She gazes down at Lani with a warm smile, her eyes sparkling with interest. "Lani, I saw you were reading that Blue Ghost Eye book," she says, her deep voice gentle.

  Lani's eyes dart away, her cheeks flushing slightly as she tries to hide her embarrassment. But Lady Ioanna's chuckle puts her at ease. "No need to be embarrassed, little one. I just want to know what you learned."

  Lani's gaze returns to Lady Ioanna, her expression sheepish. "Honestly, I couldn't understand much of it. The book is really hard to comprehend."

  Lady Ioanna nods thoughtfully, her expression understanding. "Ah, I see. The Blue Ghost Eye texts can be challenging, even for experienced practitioners. But don't worry, Lani. We'll work through it together. Sometimes, all it takes is a different perspective to unlock the secrets within." She offers Lani an encouraging smile, her eyes shining with warmth.

  Lady Ioanna smiles and says “Well,it was written by the best blue ghost eye user back then.”Lani’s eyes widened in shock “Woah, who were they?” Lady Ioanna's eyes light up with enthusiasm as she begins to share the story of Kaida, the legendary Blue Ghost Eye user. "Her name was Kaida, and she held power beyond any Ghost Eye user back then, at least among the lower-ranking Ghost Eyes."

  Lani's eyes widen in awe, her voice filled with wonder. "Woooaaahhh! What was she capable of?"

  Lady Ioanna smiles, settling in for a long talk. "Kaida's abilities were truly remarkable. She could wipe techniques, just like King Batoyle, but her powers went beyond that. She could also wipe away her opponent's sight, rendering them blind."

  Lani's shock is noticeable. "She can make people blind?!!"

  Lady Ioanna nods, her laughter warm and rich. "Yes, Kaida's powers were that extensive. But that's not all - she also defeated multiple strong warriors and even bested a higher-ranking warrior in battle, killing him in the process."

  Lani's eyes are wide with excitement, her mind racing with the implications of Kaida's abilities. "That's incredible! What else can you tell me about her?"

  Lady Ioanna leans in, a sly grin spreading across her face. "Well, let me tell you, Lani. Kaida's journey was nothing short of legendary. She was a true master of the Blue Ghost Eye, and her legacy continues to inspire and intimidate to this day."

  Lani's curiosity is piqued, and she asks, "Where is she now?" Lady Ioanna shrugs, her expression uncertain. "I genuinely don't know. All I remember is that she was in a forest, in a village that resides in another district."

  Lani's eyes sparkle with hope. "Is she still alive?" she asks, her voice filled with excitement.

  Lady Ioanna nods without hesitation. "Of course, she is! She's the best of the best. She might just be somewhere else; I don't know if she moved or something."

  Lani's determination ignites, and she picks up the book from the table. "I will learn from you, Ms. Kaida," she says, her eyes shining with resolve.

  Despite her enthusiasm, Lani still struggles to understand the words in the book. She tries to pronounce them, but they seem to dance on the page, elusive and mysterious. She furrows her brow, her mind racing with questions. How can she learn from Kaida if she can't even comprehend the book?

  Lady Ioanna notices Lani's frustration and offers a gentle smile. "Don't worry, Lani. It takes time and patience to understand the secrets of the Blue Ghost Eye. You'll get there, and when you do, you'll be unstoppable."

  Lani's determination and frustration finally pay off as her dual blue ghost eyes awaken, allowing her to understand the words in the book perfectly. She shouts in excitement, "YES! I DID IT!"

  As she looks at the book, the words come alive, revealing Kaida's story and secrets. Lani's eyes widen as she reads:

  "I see, you're a fellow Blue Ghost Eye user trying to access the knowledge of my book. I stopped fighting after losing my dear friend Sujuni to the changing tide of war, but I am still a warrior deep inside. And I must pass this information to the next one who will take the spot of the strongest Blue Ghost Eye user. My name is Kaida Orimunga, and these are my secrets that only Blue Ghost Eyes can look upon."

  As Lani flips the page, she expects to see more writing, but at first, there's nothing. Then, words begin to form on the page, as if by magic. Her mind is instantly filled with all the secrets and abilities of the Blue Ghost Eyes.

  Lani's eyes sparkle with wonder as she absorbs the knowledge, her mind racing with the possibilities. She feels a deep connection to Kaida, sensing a shared understanding and purpose.

  With this newfound understanding, Lani knows that she has a responsibility to carry on Kaida's legacy and become the strongest Blue Ghost Eye user. She feels a surge of determination and excitement, ready to face the challenges ahead.

  Lani's eyes widen as she reads the final pages of the book, her heart racing with excitement and emotion. She realizes that Kaida knew her mother, Sujuni, and that Kaida had taken care of a young boy who sounds eerily like Lani herself.

  As she reads the last entry, "In loving memory Sujuni Junes," Lani's voice cracks as she whispers, "Mom..."

  Tears begin to fall as Lani's mind races with the implications. She feels a deep connection to Kaida, who had cared for her mother and possibly even Lani herself. The realization is overwhelming, and Lani's heart swells with grief and love.

  She closes the book, her eyes streaming with tears as she mourns the loss of her mother and the secrets that were kept from her. Lani's mind is reeling, trying to process the revelations and the emotions that come with them.

  Lady Ioanna approaches Lani, concern etched on her face. "Lani, are you okay? What did you find out?"

  Lani looks up, her eyes red and puffy from crying. "Kaida... she knew my mom," she stammers, her voice shaking.

  Lady Ioanna's expression softens, and she nods. "I knew Kaida was special, but I had no idea..."

  Lani takes a deep breath, trying to compose herself. "I need to know more," she says, determined in her voice. "I need to know what happened to my mom and what happened with her and Kaida."

  Lady Ioanna nods, her eyes filled with compassion. "We'll figure it out together, Lani. I promise."

  Lani's eyes widen as she recalls the words in the book. "Wait... boy with a scar on his neck?" she says, her voice trembling with realization.

  She looks at Lady Ioanna, her eyes filled with a mix of emotions. "Kaida was talking about Jairen," she says, her voice barely above a whisper. "She was talking about finding him and taking care of him as a child."

  Lady Ioanna's expression changes from curiosity to shock. "What? That's impossible," she says, her voice laced with disbelief.

  Lani nods, her mind racing with the implications. "It makes sense," she says, her voice filled with conviction. "The scar on his neck, the way Kaida described him... it's Jairen."

  Lady Ioanna looks stunned, her eyes wide with wonder. "If that's true," she says, her voice filled with awe, "then Kaida's book is more than just a simple diary. It's a key to understanding Jairen's past."

  Lani's eyes light up with determination. "We need to find out more," she says, her voice filled with purpose. "We need to know what happened to Jairen and why Kaida took care of him."

  Lady Ioanna nods, her expression resolute. "We'll do it together," she says, her voice filled with conviction. "We'll uncover the secrets of Kaida's book and find out the truth about Jairen's past."

  Lani's memories flash back, and she exclaims, "WAIT, I REMEMBER!" She yells, "Kaida, the lady in Jairen's memories! I remember seeing a lady take care of him, I saw the forest, the trees... I know exactly what scene she's talking about!"

  Lady Ioanna looks puzzled, "How? What do you mean?"

  Lani explains, "I went through Jairen's memories when we first met, it was an accident, but I learned a key part of his past. I only got to see the after, not the before."

  Lady Ioanna's eyes light up, "What if we can use that to find him?"

  Lani hesitates, "How? That was his past, I saw it. It's not like I can see the future."

  Lady Ioanna smiles, "You're right... only if you could. Well, we'll find another way, don't worry!"

  Lani's determination returns, "I'll do it, I'll find another way. I have to know what happened to him!”

  Lani sits down to continue reading, but her focus is disrupted by the commotion at the entrance of the palace. Lady Ioanna walks out of the room, and Sir Valric rushes in, calling out her name. Eine, who is standing nearby, comments with a hint of sarcasm, "See, he gets to yell your name, and I guarantee it's not even an emergency."

  Lady Ioanna silences Eine with a gesture and turns her attention to Sir Valric. "My lady, I found something useful in my search," he says, slightly out of breath. "I used my searching technique, and I discovered that I can view the events that happened in the battle."

  Lady Ioanna's interest is piqued. "Interesting, tell me more. Did you find Jairen?"

  Sir Valric's expression is serious. "That's just it, Jairen was taken. He didn't die in those massive bursts of energy. Some figure came in and absorbed him into something."

  Lady Ioanna's eyes widened in shock. "Wait, so he's alive?!"

  Sir Valric nods. "There's a possibility that whoever took him didn't kill him yet, so yes, he might be alive."

  Lady Ioanna's eyes glow with determination and success as she processes this new information. She now has confirmation that Jairen is alive, and she is more determined than ever to find him and uncover the truth.

  Lady Ioanna walks into the training room, her presence commanding attention. Everyone stops their training session, and Ito falls from his handstand, getting back on his feet and standing at attention. Lady Ioanna announces, "Alright! I have just received confirmation! JAIREN IS ALIVE!!!"

  Kael sheds a couple of tears, while Lani holds back hers, her heart filled with joy. Marco scoffs under his breath, "Dammit." Ito smiles, "I knew someone who could hurt the queen herself wouldn't die that easily... good stuff, Jairen. You knew very well not to die on me."

  The room erupts in cheers, and even Elara looks happy, her sadness washed away by a sense of hope. Her classmate, the one who gave her hope, is alive. The news spreads like wildfire, and the atmosphere in the training room transforms into one of celebration and renewed determination.

  Everyone is ecstatic, and Lady Ioanna's eyes shine with a sense of pride and relief. She knows that this news will give them the strength to keep going, to keep fighting for Jairen and for their cause. The confirmation of Jairen's survival is a beacon of hope in the midst of uncertainty, and they will hold onto it with all their might.

  Two months have passed, and the students are now gathered outside the palace, looking determined and ready for battle. Lani stands out in her bright blue battle armor, which shines and glows like the palace. She declares, "I'm ready, Lady Ioanna!"

  Lady Ioanna turns to the students and commands, "Prepare for a very long journey! We will fight! We will win! And we will rescue Jairen!" The students respond with a unified "YEAH!"

  Lady Ioanna's voice becomes even more serious, "We have located Jairen in Hanishi's realm. If you don't know who that is, don't ask questions. Just know that they are very dangerous, and if you encounter them, you are as good as dead. Do you understand?!"

  A case of theft: this story is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.

  The students respond with a firm "YES, MA'AM!"

  Lady Ioanna teleports them back to the north district, where the school was located, and then to the field where the major false battle took place. "Here, we will use Eine and Sir Valric's powers to see when the taking of Jairen happened. And the moment it happens, Eine will forge the technique, making a mimic version of Hanishi's realm, allowing us to access it on our own terms. But only for 30 minutes! So, we must be quick, locate Jairen, grab him, and survive until the timer is up!"

  The students nod, determination etched on their faces. They know the mission will be challenging, but they're ready to face it head-on.

  The Rescue Mission for Jairen begins!

  Sir Valric activates the ability to play back the events of the battle, and they watch until they get close to the part where the explosion occurs. Lady Ioanna looks at Lani and warns her, "This is what happened after you got hurt. Pay attention or look away. I don't want to traumatize you."

  But Lani is determined to see what happened. "No! I want to look, no matter how bad it is. I need to see what happened to Jairen."

  As they continue to watch, they see Jairen snap and cause the explosion. But after the second explosion, a figure appears - Hanishi. However, his appearance is blurry and obscured.

  Sir Valric yells, "Now!" And Eine mocks Hanishi's technique, creating a less accurate version of the transportation technique. He opens a portal and grunts, "Hurry! I can't hold this for a long time!"

  Lani looks at the portal, and with determination in her eyes, she says, "We're coming, Jairen. We're coming for you." She wipes away a tear falling down her face.

  Lady Ioanna commands, "Let's go!" And they rush into the portal. Eine jumps in last, and they seem to end up in a vast area.

  Lady Ioanna looks around and gazes at the area, "Locate Jairen and get out. Let's move!"

  Marco breaks away from the group and walks alone, his pace slowing as he stops running and approaches a wall. He hears the sound of chains and asks, "Jairen?" as he sees Jairen's body hanging by his arms, pierced by chains and with a huge slash on his chest.

  Marco walks up to Jairen's body, his face twisted in a smug expression. "You disgust me! How can you die?! Knowing full well that Lani got hurt!!" He slaps Jairen's lifeless face, his anger and frustration boiling over. "How dare you?! You let her die!!"

  Marco continues to scream at Jairen's body, his words echoing off the walls. But as he does, he starts to feel a presence behind him. It's an unknown presence, but it makes him feel a sense of fear, and he's hesitant to turn around.

  Suddenly, Marco hears a voice behind him. "You shouldn't have come here," it says. Marco tries to turn around, but his body feels heavy, as if rooted to the spot. The voice continues, "You shouldn't have interfered."

  Marco tries to speak, but his voice is barely a whisper. "W-who are you?"

  The voice responds, "Someone who will make sure you never leave this place."

  As the voice finishes speaking, Marco feels a hand on his shoulder, and everything goes black.

  Marco slowly opens his eyes, groggily taking in his surroundings. He's lying on the floor, his head throbbing with a dull ache. As he struggles to sit up, he notices Luusha and Arabel standing over him, their faces expressionless.

  Arabel's eyes seem to bore into his soul, her gaze piercing and unsettling. Marco shudders, feeling a chill run down his spine. He tries to speak, but his voice cracks, and he clears his throat, trying again.

  "M- Ma'am, what do you want?" he stammers, trying to hide the fear creeping up his legs. "I have a ghost eye, and I'm not afraid to use it!"

  Arabel bursts out laughing, her voice echoing off the walls. "A ghost eye? Oh, that's cute!" She takes a step closer, her eyes glinting with amusement. "I'm shaking in my boots, little boy!"

  Marco's face flushes with anger, but he knows better than to mess with Arabel. He glances at Luusha, who seems equally unimpressed.

  "Where are your friends?" Luusha demands, her voice firm and commanding.

  Marco hesitates, unsure if he should reveal their location. But Arabel's beauty and charm have him entranced, and he finds himself spilling the beans.

  "They're searching for Jairen Yaragashi," he says, his voice barely above a whisper. "The boy you have on the wall. They're here to rescue him."

  Arabel's grin widens, and she takes another step closer. "Thank you, handsome. And how did they get here?"

  Marco swallows hard, his heart racing. "Lady Ioanna's knight, Eine, copied some Hanishi dude's technique."

  Luusha raises an eyebrow, skeptical. "Copied his technique? No way. It's probably a trash version of it. Thanks for the info, twerp."

  Arabel's eyes seem to gleam with excitement. "One more thing, Marco. Where are they exactly?"

  Marco points to an open area, his hand shaking slightly. "They're probably over there somewhere, searching."

  Arabel's smile grows wider, and she reaches out, grasping Marco's hand. She pulls it down, rubbing it down her panties, and Marco feels a jolt of electricity run through his body.

  "Thanks, handsome," she whispers, her breath against his ear. "You're a lifesaver."

  As she releases his hand, Marco feels a strange sense of relief wash over him. He's still scared, but Arabel's touch has left him feeling dazed and confused.

  Arabel turns to Luusha, a mischievous glint in her eye. "Shall we go find Jairen's friends?"

  Luusha nods, and the two women walk away, leaving Marco standing there, still trying to process what just happened.

  Lani, Jack, and Ito are walking together, following Lady Ioanna, when Lani asks, "Hey, where did Marco go off to?"

  Jack looks around, suddenly concerned. "Wait, did he... did he walk off from the group? ALONE?!"

  Jack's expression changes from calm to frantic as he realizes that Marco is no longer with them. He starts freaking out, his voice rising in panic.

  "Oh no, no, no! This is not good! Marco, you idiot! What were you thinking?!"

  Ito tries to calm Jack down, placing a hand on his shoulder. "Hey, Jack, it's okay. We'll find him. He's probably just... um... exploring or something."

  But Jack is having none of it. "Exploring?! Alone?! In a place like this?! No, no, no! This is bad! We have to find him, now!"

  Lady Ioanna turns around, her expression serious. "Jack's right. We need to find Marco. Now. Let's split up and search for him. We can't afford to lose anyone else."

  The group quickly disperses, searching for Marco in all directions. Lani, Jack, and Ito call out his name, but there is no response. They search for what feels like hours, but there is no sign of Marco.

  As time becomes an issue, the group reconvenes, worried and frightened. They know that Marco is in grave danger, and they need to find him before it's too late.

  Marco sneaks up behind the group, hiding something and looking nervous. "Hey guys, I found Jairen..." he says, holding his arm and looking like he wants to say more but is hesitant.

  Lani grabs Marco's shoulders, demanding to know where Jairen is. "WHERE?!"

  Marco points, but Lani notices his hand is wet and asks if he's sweating. Marco lies, saying it's just sweat from being nervous.

  Lani disregards his excuse and asks him to lead the way to Jairen. They walk until they reach the wall where Jairen was, but his body is no longer there.

  Lani turns to Marco, confused and concerned. "I thought you said he was here."

  Marco stutters, trying to explain himself. "HE WAS! I swear, he was right here!"

  The group starts to search the area, but there's no sign of Jairen. Lady Ioanna turns to Marco, her expression stern. "Marco, what's going on? Where is Jairen?"

  Marco looks around nervously, still stuttering. "I-I don't know! I swear, I saw him right here!"

  Lani's eyes narrow, suspicion growing in her mind. "Marco, what did you do?"

  Arabel's voice echoes through the realm, revealing Marco's betrayal. "Your friend here... copped a feel in exchange for his life and some information he had no choice but to tell me."

  Lani's eyes widen in shock and heartbreak as she turns to Marco. "You... touched her? For Jairen's life...?" Her voice is barely above a whisper, but it's laced with anger and disappointment.

  Marco is speechless, his eyes cast downward in shame. He can't meet Lani's gaze, knowing he's betrayed the group's trust.

  Lady Ioanna demands to know where Jairen is, and Arabel responds with a chuckle. "He's moved, thanks to your lovely friend."

  The group's dynamics have shifted, and tension fills the air. Marco's betrayal has put everyone on edge, and Lani's heart is broken. The search for Jairen continues, but the trust within the group has been shattered.

  Marco's face turns bright red as he shouts at Lani, still looking down in shame. "YOU CHOSE HIM OVER ME! It's not fair... We were supposed to be together, you were supposed to be my wife!"

  Lani's expression turns from shock to anger, and she slaps Marco hard across the face. "I'm not even in a relationship with him!"

  Marco rubs his face, looking up at Lani with a mix of pain and accusation. "I see the way you look at him, you brought him to your house the first day you met him... I hear the way you guys talk, and the way he exploded when you died. You're lying to me, you're in love with him!"

  Lani's face blushes, but she contains herself, her voice rising in anger. "You betrayed us! For a TOUCH! IS THAT EVEN SWEAT ON YOUR HANDS?! OR HER MUSTY WOMAN JUICES RUNNING THROUGH YOUR FINGERS?!"

  The group stands in stunned silence, the tension between Lani and Marco palpable. Marco's betrayal and Lani's anger have brought underlying emotions to the surface, and it's clear that the group's dynamics have changed forever.

  Lady Ioanna steps in to break up the fight, her voice firm and authoritative. "STOP IT, GUYS! This is her fault. She persuaded Marco to betray us. It's not his fault."

  Arabel smirks, her voice dripping with seduction. "I mean, it is his fault. He couldn't resist my voluptuous body and my sweet juices. I guarantee he licked his fingers until he felt the skin peeling."

  Lady Ioanna looks at Arabel with disgust, her expression conveying her distaste for Arabel's words.

  Lani's eyes widen in shock as Arabel drags Jairen's body, her fingers rubbing against his neck. Lani's dual blue ghost eyes activate, and she runs full force towards Arabel, her voice filled with anger and protectiveness. "DON'T YOU LAY A FINGER ON HIM!"

  The scene is intense, with Lani's ghost eyes glowing bright blue, and Arabel's seductive smile fueling the tension.

  Lani's legs and arms are surrounded by blue swirls as she runs towards Arabel with incredible speed. However, Arabel makes Jairen's body vanish into thin air, leaving Lani to throw a powerful punch at her instead.

  Arabel blocks Lani's punch, but the force of the blow creates shockwaves that ripple through her arm, tearing her skin and causing her to cry out in pain. She releases Lani's fist and backs away, her eyes fixed on Lani with a mix of surprise and anger.

  "Damn you!" Arabel exclaims, her voice laced with venom.

  Lani's fury is clear, her eyes blazing with a fierce determination. She's no longer holding back, and her actions are driven by a fierce protectiveness towards Jairen and a deep-seated anger towards Arabel.

  The air is electric with tension as the two women face off, their powers and emotions locked in a struggle that's far from over.

  Arabel removes her jacket, revealing a fishnet shirt and black tights that showcase her cleavage. She cracks her knuckles and neck, preparing for a fight. "Alright then, let's fight," she says, her voice dripping with confidence.

  Lani, fueled by anger, dashes towards Arabel, and the two engage in a fierce hand-to-hand combat. Lani unleashes a flurry of combos, but Arabel blocks or dodges some of them. Arabel pulls out her sword, a curved and menacing weapon that gleams in the light.

  As Lani continues to press the attack, Arabel tries to cut her down with her sword. But Lani dodges and weaves, avoiding the blade's deadly edge. With a swift punch, Lani sends Arabel flying across the realm, her body crashing into the ground.

  Arabel gets up, wiping the blood off her lip, her eyes blazing with fury. The fight is far from over, and it's clear that both women are determined to emerge victorious. The air is electric with tension as they face off, their powers and emotions locked in a struggle that will only end when one of them is defeated.

  Arabel's expression turns sultry, her voice dripping with seduction. "I wouldn't mind sharing lips with you," she says, biting her lip. "I like them feisty, and I loooveee when they fight back." She licks her lips, her gaze fixed on Lani.

  But Lani's response is one of disgust. "I'm not into dirty hags like you, selling their body for 5 silver coins and a meat bun," she spits out, her words laced with venom.

  Arabel's face falls, her expression thrown aback. "Rude!" she exclaims, her voice dripping with indignation.

  Without warning, Arabel teleports behind Lani and punches her to the ground. But Lani quickly recovers, uppercutting Arabel in the chin and pulling her down by the leg. Lani's fists fly fast and furious, pummeling Arabel's face with a flurry of punches.

  The fight intensifies, the two women exchanging blows and showcasing their formidable combat skills. Arabel's seductive charm has given way to a fierce determination, but Lani's anger and disgust fuel her own fighting spirit. The outcome of this battle is far from certain, as both women refuse to back down.

  Gunba's arrival is met with a mixture of surprise and intensity. "What's with all the commotion-" he starts to say, but his words are cut short as he drops his sandwich and summons his giant axe, Gorogichi.

  With a fierce battle cry, Gunba charges towards the two women, his axe at the ready. He moves at horrifying speeds, his weapon gleaming in the light. Lani, still engaged in combat with Arabel, barely has time to react as Gunba slams his axe down near them.

  The ground shakes beneath their feet as the axe bites into the realm, mere inches from Lani's feet. She dodges at the last second, letting go of Arabel and backing away from the sudden interruption.

  Arabel, taking advantage of the distraction, scrambles to her feet and moves towards Gunba, a sly smile spreading across her face. "Ah, perfect timing, Gunba," she says, her voice dripping with sarcasm. "I was just starting to have fun."

  Gunba's expression is grim, his eyes fixed on Lani. "You're the one who's been causing trouble, I presume?" he growls, his hand tightening around the handle of his axe.

  The scene is tense, the air thick with anticipation. Lani's eyes dart between Gunba and Arabel, her mind racing with strategies and counterattacks. The battle may have been interrupted, but it's far from over.

  Gunba's gaze shifts to the rest of the group, and his eyes light up with excitement. "Oh, they're all here!" he exclaims, his voice filled with glee. He picks up his sandwich and takes a big bite, chewing with gusto.

  Arabel's expression turns green as she watches Gunba eat his sandwich. She looks like she's about to vomit, her throat convulsing as she tries to hold it in. But she doesn't belch or throw up; she just stands there, her face twisted in disgust.

  Gunba finishes his sandwich in two bites and clears his throat. "Alright, let's finish this," he says, his voice dripping with menace. He cracks his knuckles and prepares to annihilate the group.

  Arabel struggles to stand to her feet, her legs shaking and her face pale. She looks like she's about to pass out, but she's determined to fight on.

  The group readies themselves for battle, their eyes fixed on Gunba and Arabel. The air is tense with anticipation, and the outcome of this fight is far from certain. Will Gunba's brute strength and Arabel's cunning be enough to take down the group, or will they emerge victorious? Only time will tell.

  Arabel's eyes blaze with fury as she points at Lani, her voice dripping with malice. "I want her..." she growls, her body trembling with rage.

  Gunba grins, his eyes gleaming with excitement. "Alright, I'll take the rest of them," he says, his voice dripping with confidence.

  Jack's eyes widen in fear as he turns to Ito and Kael. "Wait, they're about to fight us?" he asks, his voice shaking.

  Ito and Kael nod grimly, their faces set with determination. "We're ready," Ito says, his hand on the hilt of his sword.

  Kael cracks his knuckles, his eyes fixed on Gunba. "Let's do this," he growls.

  The group readies themselves for battle, their eyes fixed on Arabel and Gunba. The air is electric with tension, and the outcome of this fight is far from certain.

  Lani stands tall, her eyes fixed on Arabel. "I'm ready for you," she says, her voice steady.

  Arabel sneers, her lips curling into a snarl. "You're no match for me," she spits.

  The battle begins, the two women clashing in a flurry of punches and kicks. Gunba charges towards the rest of the group, his axe swinging in wide arcs.

  The fight is intense, the outcome hanging in the balance. Will the group emerge victorious, or will Arabel and Gunba prove too strong?

  Gunba's axe slices through the air, clashing with Lady Ioanna's sword in a shower of sparks. She defends the group with precision and skill, but Gunba's brute strength is formidable.

  Kael and Ito join the fray, attacking Gunba from either side. But despite being outnumbered, Gunba's power is overwhelming. He swings his axe in wide arcs, knocking both Ito and Kael away like rag dolls.

  Lady Ioanna stands firm, her sword flashing in the light as she tries to keep Gunba at bay. But Gunba's pressure is relentless, his axe blows raining down on her with precision and force.

  The group watches in awe as the battle rages on, Gunba's strength and skill on full display. Despite the odds, Lady Ioanna refuses to back down, her determination and courage inspiring the others.

  But Gunba's advantage is clear, and it's only a matter of time before he overpowers Lady Ioanna and turns his attention to the rest of the group. The outcome of this fight is far from certain, and the group's fate hangs in the balance.

  Lady Ioanna sees an opening and pierces Gunba's side with her sword, quickly pulling it out before he can react. But Gunba, fed up with her attacks, grabs her with his bare hand and squeezes tight.

  Ito sees Lady Ioanna in danger and swiftly cuts Gunba's hand, freeing her from his grasp. Gunba's eyes narrow in anger as he looks at the cut on his hand. "Foul creature," he growls at Ito.

  Gunba flashes behind Ito, ready to strike. But just as he's about to attack, Kael pushes him with all his might, sending Gunba flying back a few feet. Ito takes advantage of the reprieve to catch his breath and prepare for another attack.

  Gunba's eyes widen in surprise, but he quickly regains his composure. "You think you can save your friend?" he sneers at Kael. "I'll show you my true power!"

  The battle rages on, with Gunba's strength and speed pitted against the group's determination and teamwork. Who will emerge victorious in this intense fight?

  Gunba yells, suddenly shifting positions and placing himself in front of Ito. But before he can attack, Lady Ioanna strikes again, cutting his ankles and sending him crashing to the ground.

  Meanwhile, Lani and Arabel are engaged in a fierce and bloody fistfight, their punches flying fast and furious.

  They're destroying each other, but their rage and adrenaline are so intense that they can't feel any pain. They're like two forces of nature, clashing in a frenzy of fists and fury.

  The scene is chaotic, with Gunba struggling to get back to his feet, Lady Ioanna standing tall and ready to strike again, and Lani and Arabel continuing their brutal and relentless exchange of blows.

  Lady Ioanna holds her sword at Gunba's neck, her eyes blazing with determination. "Give us Jairen, or else!" she demands, her voice firm and resolute.

  Gunba closes his eyes, a fierce grin spreading across his face. "DO IT!" he taunts, daring her to take his life.

  But Lady Ioanna hesitates, her resolve wavering for a moment. She doesn't want to kill him yet, not until she's sure they'll give up Jairen.

  Gunba senses her hesitation and seizes the opportunity. "If you don't kill me now, you'll die!" he snarls, his eyes snapping open.

  But Lady Ioanna doesn't heed the warning. And in that moment of hesitation, Luusha takes advantage of the opening.

  With a swift and deadly motion, she raises her gun, Veldez, and fires a high-powered speed laser that tears through Lady Ioanna's head, passing through her left eye.

  Lady Ioanna's body jerks, her sword slipping from her grasp. But in a reflexive motion, she cuts Gunba's neck, killing him instantly, just in case she dies.

  The scene is gruesome, the aftermath of the battle leaving both Gunba and Lady Ioanna lying lifeless on the ground. The group is stunned, the sudden turn of events leaving them reeling.

  Arabel's anguished cry echoes through the air as she's punched in the face by Lani, sending her crashing to the ground.

  But the surprise twist comes when Lady Ioanna, despite her fatal wound, suddenly gets up, her sword at the ready. Her left eye is now a gaping hole, but her determination and rage drive her forward.

  "Lani, I'll kill this one!" Lady Ioanna grunts, her voice dripping with venom, as she charges towards Luusha.

  Lani's eyes widen in shock, but she quickly regains her composure and readies herself for battle. The two women clash, their swords flashing in the light, as they engage in a fierce and deadly duel.

  The outcome is far from certain, as both women are driven by their anger and determination.

  Lady Ioanna's eye heals before Arabel's very eyes, leaving her impressed despite herself. "Ahh, healing? I can guarantee you'll never heal again!" Arabel taunts, but her words are cut off by Lani's relentless attack.

  Arabel blocks Lani's punch and tightens her grip on Lani's hand. "Aht aht, sweet cheeks," she says with a sly smile. "You've had your fun." With a swift motion, she throws Lani across the floor.

  Just as the dust settles, the realm flashes, signaling the arrival of someone new. Arabel turns around, expecting another member of the group, but her eyes widen in shock as she realizes who has entered the room.

  Hanishi, the formidable and feared warrior, has arrived. His presence is like a tidal wave, crashing down on the group and sending them all to their knees. The pressure is immense, weakening them all.

  Arabel's eyes lock onto Hanishi, her mind racing with the implications of his arrival. What does this mean for their mission? For their very survival? The air is thick with tension as the group struggles to comprehend the sheer power that now stands before them.

  Arabel tries to apologize to Hanishi, but her words are cut off by the crushing pressure that sends her grinding into the ground. She grunts in pain, her body straining under the intense force.

  Luusha, kneeling beside her, tries to explain, "My lord... we moved the body so that they couldn't recover it."

  But Hanishi remains silent, his gaze fixed on Gunba's lifeless form. Then, with a mere lift of his finger, he sends a surge of energy that revives Gunba, bringing him back to life.

  Gunba gasps for air, his body majestically restored by Hanishi's effortless gesture. The group watches in awe, their minds reeling from the sheer power that Hanishi has demonstrated.

  Arabel, still struggling under the pressure, can't help but wonder what other abilities Hanishi possesses. She knows that she and her companions are no match for his might.

  The atmosphere is heavy with tension as Hanishi's silence continues, his gaze still fixed on Gunba. What will he do next? Will he punish them for their failure, or will he reveal a new plan? The group can only wait with bated breath, their fate hanging in the balance.

  Gunba, grateful for his revival, gets on his knees and thanks Hanishi for saving his life. But his expression of gratitude is short-lived, as Hanishi's swift swipe of his hand sends Gunba's body exploding in a gruesome flash.

  The group is left stunned and horrified, with Arabel screaming "GUNBA NO!!" as she mourns the loss of her associate. Luusha stands in silence, fearful of Hanishi's power and the brutal display they just witnessed.

  Hanishi, seemingly unfazed by the carnage he just caused, summons a towel and throws it on the pool of blood, signifying that they need to clean up their teammate's blood. He then walks away, leaving the group in a state of shock and terror.

  The students and Lady Ioanna sit in fear, their minds reeling from the sudden and brutal turn of events. They can't comprehend the extent of Hanishi's power and the implications of his actions. The atmosphere is heavy with dread, and the group is left to wonder what other terrors Hanishi may unleash upon them.

  Lady Ioanna, fueled by anger and determination, grunts and runs after Hanishi, shouting "YOU!!!! COME BACK HERE!" She attempts to fly towards him, her sword at the ready, but Hanishi effortlessly blocks her attack with just the tip of his finger.

  Lady Ioanna is left sitting there, baffled and stunned, as Hanishi turns his back on her and walks away. She can't believe the ease with which he deflected her attack, and the realization dawn on her that she is no match for his power.

  The group watches in awe as Lady Ioanna, the formidable warrior, is left looking helpless and defeated. They know that they are in the presence of someone truly extraordinary, and that their chances of success are slim to none.

  As Hanishi disappears into the distance, the group is left to ponder their next move. They know that they cannot defeat him in battle, so they must rely on their wits and cunning if they hope to succeed. But for now, they can only sit in stunned silence, trying to process the sheer magnitude of Hanishi's power.

  The scene unfolds with Jairen's battered body being thrown into the field, leaving Lady Ioanna to catch him. Arabel attempts to take the body from Lady Ioanna, but Hanvol appears behind her, grabbing her hair. Arabel moans in pleasure, "Ouuu, Hanvol, do it again!" But Hanvol's expression remains serious, "Come now, our mission is completed. We extracted what we needed."

  With that, Hanvol teleports away with Arabel, leaving Luusha to glare at the group with anger. "You guys are lucky! I swear it, I'll kill you the next time I see you!" She warns before storming off.

  The group is left in stunned silence, trying to process the sudden turn of events. Lady Ioanna holds Jairen's lifeless body, her expression a mix of concern and determination. The others look on, unsure of what to make of the mysterious forces that have intervened in their quest. As they stand there, they can't help but wonder what other secrets and dangers lie ahead.

  Kael's anger boils over, refusing to accept the hollow victory. "No! This isn't right! We got Jairen's body, yes, mission completed, but that's not the point!" he exclaims, his voice rising in indignation.

  Ito looks at him quizzically, "What do you mean, Kael?"

  Kael's response is fiery, "I didn't train for 3 months to just get an easy victory like this! I'll kill them! I'll fucking kill them! Look at what they did to Jairen! They have to die! They won't stop!"

  With that, Kael takes off, running deeper into the realm, driven by his rage and determination. The team has no choice but to follow, concerned for their classmate's safety and knowing they need to prevent him from doing something reckless.

  Jack is right beside Kael, echoing his sentiments, "I'm right with you, bro! They have to go!"

  Lani activates her ghost eyes once more, preparing for an all-out war. The group is now headed for a confrontation, fueled by Kael's anger and determination for justice. The outcome is far from certain, but one thing is clear: they won't back down without a fight.

  Kael bursts into the hall, his fists flying as he targets Luusha. His first punch misses, but he quickly recovers and throws another, striking Luusha with a powerful blow that sends her crashing into the wall.

  However, Luusha's recovery is swift and effortless, and she's back on her feet in an instant. Ito intervenes, grabbing her arm and holding her back, allowing Kael to continue his charge.

  "GO KAEL!" Ito yells, his grip on Luusha's arm firm.

  Luusha chuckles, seemingly amused by the situation. "You're as dumb as your classmate," she taunts, her eyes gleaming with a fierce light.

  "You all are gonna die in here," she adds, her voice dripping with confidence.

  With Ito holding her back, Luusha can't pursue Kael, but her words hang in the air, an ominous warning that the group can't shake off. Kael continues his run, driven by his determination and anger, while the others follow close behind, ready to face whatever dangers lie ahead.

  Kael's charge is halted by Arabel's sudden appearance, her hand grasping his neck. "Hey cutie," she says, her voice dripping with sadistic pleasure. "Oh, you look so hot! Especially when you're gasping for air!"

  Arabel's twisted games begin, her hand tightening around Kael's neck as she starts to touch herself. But Lani intervenes, her fist flying into Arabel's stomach with incredible force. Arabel flies back, coughing up spit, momentarily stunned.

  Luusha seizes the opportunity to break free from Ito's hold, and the two engage in a fierce battle. Jack joins the fray, helping Ito subdue Luusha.

  Kael, enraged and determined, declares, "I'll be the one that kills, HANISHI!!!!" as he activates his wind resonance. His body speeds up, and he takes off like a shot, his speed and determination driving him forward.

  The scene is intense, with battles raging on multiple fronts. Kael's singular focus on Hanishi propels him forward, while his friends fight to hold off their opponents.

  Kael's charge is halted once again, this time by Hanvol himself. Kael stops in his tracks, staring up at the tall man with long hair. "Get out of my way!" Kael demands, but Hanvol's response is calm and collected. "Move me..."

  Before Kael can react, Lady Ioanna teleports him back to her side, saving him from Hanvol's swift and deadly slash. The spot where Kael was just standing is now scarred, cut deep into the realm's walls.

  "You would've died, Kael!" Lady Ioanna warns him, her voice stern but concerned. "If you moved even an inch towards him, he would've killed you."

  Kael breathes a sigh of relief, thanking Lady Ioanna for her timely intervention. Hanvol's parting words echo in his mind, "Listen to your elders, kid. Next time, I won't miss..."

  Kael realizes that he underestimated Hanvol's power and speed. He knows that he needs to be more cautious and strategic in his approach. The encounter serves as a stark reminder of the dangers that lie ahead, and Kael steeles himself for the challenges to come.

  Kael's determination grows, his fists clenched as he prepares to face Hanvol alongside Lady Ioanna. "I will not falter!" he whispers, his voice firm with resolve. "I will defeat at least one of you! I didn't train that long to be a useless side character!"

  Lady Ioanna nods in approval, her sword at the ready. "Let's do this, Kael. Be careful, okay?"

  But before they can even move, Hanvol appears between them, his speed and agility unsettling. "I told you I wouldn't miss..." he says, his eyes cold and calculating.

  With a swift and deadly motion, Hanvol strikes Kael with a diagonal slash across his chest. Kael gasps for air, his vision blurring, but he refuses to back down. Summoning his last ounce of strength, he launches a powerful gust of wind at Hanvol, determined to take him down.

  Hanvol effortlessly parries the wind blast and counterattacks, slicing Kael's leg and sending him down to one knee. Kael yells in pain and frustration, but he refuses to give up, gritting his teeth and forcing himself back to his feet.

  Lady Ioanna charges forward, her sword clashing with Hanvol's in a flurry of strikes, but Hanvol's power and skill prove too much for her. He overpowers her, sending her stumbling back.

  Meanwhile, Ito and Jack focus their attention on Luusha, their punches and kicks forcing her to defend herself. Arabel, still gasping from Lani's earlier punch, faces off against Lani, her eyes blazing with determination.

  The battle rages on, each side trading blows and neither gaining the upper hand. Kael, despite his injuries, refuses to back down, his spirit and determination driving him forward. But Hanvol's power and skill seem almost insurmountable, and it's unclear if Kael and his friends can overcome the odds and emerge victorious.

  Kael's memories flash back to his childhood, remembering why he joined the academy in the first place. He recalls his conversation with Jack in elementary magic training school, "Hey Jack! When we get big and strong, we're gonna join the academy of warriors!" Little Jack pumps his fist in the air, "Yeah! And then we're gonna be super strong, the strongest ever!"

  But the happy memory is interrupted by his teacher's horrifying news, "Kael, I'm sorry to inform you, but your grandfather has passed away. Your mother called the school to let you know immediately. I'll send you home so you can grieve in peace." Kid Kael declines, "No! I want to be strong, and my grandpa's death will just allow me to be stronger!"

  The memory snaps back to the present, and Kael's eyes gleam with determination. He rushes towards Hanvol, ducking the slash above him, and delivers a gut punch. Amplifying his punch with his wind resonance, he yells, "GOOOOO!!!!" as wind shoots through Hanvol.

  Lady Ioanna takes advantage of the opening and starts overpowering Hanvol. Lani begins pounding on Arabel, beating her into the ground. The group finds new determination in their souls, sparked by Kael's scream. They press on, fueled by their renewed resolve.

  The fight continues for a grueling 20 minutes, with both sides exchanging blows and neither gaining the upper hand. Lady Ioanna's timer goes off, and she yells, "1 MINUTE!" as she continues to clash with Hanvol.

  Lani finally emerges victorious over Arabel, leaving her body on the ground beaten and battered. With a disdainful glance, Lani spits on Arabel's prone form and says, "Wretched scum!" before walking off to assist Ito and Jack in their battle against Luusha.

  The group's determination and teamwork have allowed them to hold their own against their formidable foes, but the fight is far from over. Hanvol and Luusha remain powerful opponents, and it will take all of the group's skills and strategies to emerge victorious.

  As the battle rages on, Kael's wind resonance and Lady Ioanna's swordsmanship continue to press Hanvol, while Lani's ghost eyes and Ito's brute strength focus on taking down Luusha. Jack's quick reflexes and agility prove invaluable in dodging Luusha's attacks and finding openings for counterattacks.

  Despite their progress, the group knows that the last minute will be just as challenging, if not more so. They grit their teeth and prepare for the long haul, determined to triumph over their adversaries.

  Lani unleashes a flurry of swirling fists and combos, striking Luusha with incredible speed and precision. She drives Luusha into the wall, but the latter quickly retaliates by pulling out her laser pistol and firing a multi-beam shot towards Lani. However, Lani is too quick and manages to block the attack.

  Meanwhile, Marco watches from a distance, his eyes fixed on his classmates as they fight for their lives. He can't help but feel a growing sense of guilt and remorse for his actions, which led to this desperate situation. He realizes that his betrayal has put his friends in grave danger, and the weight of his conscience begins to bear down on him.

  As the battle rages on, Lani continues to exchange blows with Luusha, her ghost eyes glowing with an otherworldly energy. Ito and Jack join the fray, their movements swift and deadly as they attempt to take down Luusha. Kael and Lady Ioanna press on against Hanvol, their determination and skill pushing them forward despite the odds.

  The fight is far from over, but Marco's change of heart may yet prove to be a turning point in the battle.

  Elara's healing powers restore the group's vitality, and Jack exclaims, "OH MY GOSH FINALLY! WHERE HAVE YOU BEEN!" Elara steps back, revealing a familiar figure behind her - Jairen! His eyes are dead serious, and his expression is stern. Elara says, "This is what I've been doing," as Jairen steps forward without a word.

  With a swift and powerful motion, Jairen unleashes a pulse punch that strikes Luusha with incredible force, sending her neck twisting in an unnatural direction. She flies across the room, defeated. Jairen dusts off his fist and turns his attention to Hanvol, his gaze intense and unyielding.

  The group watches in awe as Jairen takes charge, his actions speaking louder than words. His pulse punch, a move that typically requires him to stop time, is now executed with ease, showcasing his growth in power. Hanvol, still clashing with Kael and Lady Ioanna, senses Jairen's gaze and begins to falter.

  The dynamics of the battle shift as Jairen's presence injects new energy into the group. His arrival and impressive display of power give his friends the boost they need to turn the tide of the fight. With renewed hope and determination, they press on, ready to face whatever challenges lie ahead.

  Jairen stops time and walks towards Hanvol, but Hanvol surprisingly cuts through the time stop itself. Jairen dodges the slash effortlessly, his swift movements a blur. He sweep kicks, but Hanvol dodges again. Jairen seems dehydrated, his voice weak as he says, "Boop... how does this thing work again?" He grabs his dream blade and unsheathes it, its presence sending waves through the realm.

  Jairen throws the sword head-on at Hanvol, who ducks, but Jairen disappears and reappears behind Hanvol, holding the dream blade. The sword seems to have a teleporting ability, allowing Jairen to travel between where he's standing and wherever the sword is thrown.

  Jairen slashes, but Hanvol ducks again. Hanvol sends a back kick at Jairen, but Jairen grabs his leg and uses it to land safely back on the ground. "Hmmm, you're a good match," Hanvol says to Jairen, but Jairen remains silent, his focus solely on the battle.

  The fight intensifies, with Jairen's dream blade and Hanvol's skills making for a thrilling exchange. Despite Hanvol's impressive abilities, Jairen's determination and the power of his dream blade make him a formidable opponent. The outcome of this epic clash remains uncertain, leaving the group on the edge of their seats.

  The air is electric as Hanvol and Jairen engage in a fierce stare-down, their gazes locked in a silent showdown. The tension is palpable, and the group can feel the weight of their intensity. Lani watches in awe, her eyes wide with wonder, while Marco's expression is etched with self-loathing and regret.

  The two warriors stand frozen, their eyes burning with a fierce determination, each trying to outdo the other in a battle of wills. The air seems to vibrate with their unspoken challenge, the sheer force of their gazes overpowering the surroundings.

  Time appears to stand still as Hanvol and Jairen continue their silent confrontation, their stares piercing through the very fabric of reality. The group holds its collective breath, mesmerized by the raw power and unyielding resolve emanating from the two fighters.

  In this moment, it's clear that this is more than just a physical battle – it's a clash of titans, a war of wills, and a test of unyielding determination.

  Lady Ioanna's voice rings out, "10 SECONDS, LET'S MOVE OUT!" The group quickly prepares to leave, knowing they only have a short time left before being transported back. Jairen remains frozen in a standstill with Hanvol, his ghost eye surprisingly not activated. Ito, running past Jairen, notices this and is thrown into shock. How is Jairen surviving against such a formidable foe without his ghost eye?

  Before Ito can even process this, the teleportation takes effect, and the group vanishes from the scene. They reappear back in the field, the rescue mission a success. The group breathes a collective sigh of relief as they look at each other, grateful to be back together and safe.

  Jairen's unexpected ability to hold his own against Hanvol without his ghost eye has left Ito and likely others wondering about the extent of his powers. This new revelation adds a layer of intrigue to Jairen's character, and the group can't help but feel a sense of excitement and curiosity about what other secrets he might hold.

  As they catch their breath and process their experience, the group shares a moment of triumph and camaraderie, knowing they've overcome a significant challenge together. Their bond has grown stronger, and they're ready to face whatever adventures come their way next.

  The heartwarming reunion continues as Jairen hugs Lani, who cries into his chest. He holds her tight, comforting her as Marco watches with a mix of emotions. Marco's eyes well up with tears, but he tries to hold them back, not wanting to draw attention to himself.

  The team's excitement and joy are palpable as they celebrate Jairen's return. Ito shouts out, "YEAHHHH I KNEW YOU COULDN'T DIE!" and pats Jairen on the back. Kael smiles warmly and hugs Jairen, welcoming him back with a brotherly embrace. Jack playfully soft-punches Jairen's arm, teasing him about being the main character.

  Jairen chuckles and replies, "Alright, when do we get to eat?" The group erupts in laughter, their joy and relief evident in their smiles and banter. The tension and worry of the past few minutes melt away, replaced by a sense of camaraderie and shared triumph.

  As they continue to celebrate, the group's dynamic is clear: they're a family, united in their adventures and their love for each other. Jairen's return has brought them even closer together, and they're ready to face whatever comes next with renewed spirits and a full heart.

  Lani pulls Jairen aside, her expression curious and intent. "Hey Jairen, what can you tell me about Kaida?" she asks, her voice low and personal.

  Jairen is taken aback by the sudden question, his eyes widening slightly in surprise. "Kaida? Uhhh, okay, yeah... Kaida is some lady who took care of me back then. She gave me the keys to the apartment, and then... boom, I lost them," he replies, his tone casual, but his expression hinting at a deeper story.

  Lani's curiosity is piqued, her eyes narrowing slightly as she presses on. "Did she have powers?" she asks, her voice laced with a hint of intrigue.

  Jairen responds honestly, his expression thoughtful. "Not any that I know of. I just know she was some lady who made really nice tea and saved me from the forest," he says, his tone sincere, but his eyes hinting at a deeper connection.

  Lani's gaze lingers on Jairen's face, her expression a mix of curiosity and confusion. She seems to be searching for something more, but Jairen's enigmatic smile suggests that there may be more to the story than he's letting on. The air is thick with unspoken questions, and the tension between them is evident.

  Lani's curious gaze lingers on Jairen's face for a moment before she seems to decide to let it go. She turns and walks away, Jairen following closely behind. As they disappear into the distance, a figure watches them from a rocky outcropping, their presence hidden in the shadows.