"Father, can’t even you uncover Teacher Kongcheng’s identity?"

"What do you mean, can’t uncover it? I told you—he’s just a plain retired B Rank Hero. I had a friend at Hero Headquarters check his file. You think I’m lying? Besides, losing to the teacher is totally normal. No need to overreact."

Inside a blindingly opulent high-rise, a sumptuous breakfast adorned a magnificent long table.

This family had deep historical roots. With its head an S Rank Hero, the Maxfield clan held supreme status in culture, wealth, and power. As the current eldest son, Maxfield had once mobilized the family’s resources but found nothing unusual about Teacher Kongcheng. Or rather… the identity hidden behind him.

Could he be overthinking it?

Just recalling the power shown in battle and that nagging sense of wrongness, Maxfield dismissed the thought.

Teacher Kongcheng wasn’t simple. No evidence—just pure intuition!

"Speaking of which, Phil."

"What is it, Father?"

Maxfield’s father was a man in his forties. But four years ago, he awakened his Meta Ability! Instantly becoming an S Rank Hero, his strength was immeasurable.

His stern face masked deep affection for his son.

"Today, Hero Headquarters is sending people to visit your academy. Might also chat with that old coot Celestial Wolf. I’ll be there too. If any competitions pop up, don’t embarrass me!"

"Don’t worry. Just regular classes today."

Setting down his teacup, Maxfield excused himself.

Whatever his father or Hero Headquarters planned had nothing to do with him.

Father was father. He was himself.

.....

A week had passed since arriving at this school. The calm life held no ripples. Compared to five years in Abyssal Prison, this ordinary existence felt peaceful yet fulfilling.

Early morning, Fiers Hero Academy announced an emergency meeting.

Empty City, still eating breakfast with Night Zero, sighed helplessly at the loudspeaker’s call for all staff.

What could it be?

A school-wide emergency meeting at dawn meant big trouble.

In truth, it was like an incognito visit by a national leader!

"Mira from Hero Headquarters will lead heroes to pay respects."

That was the intel Empty City received.

But honestly, that was just official talk.

During the Apostle Invasion, how could Hero Headquarters spare time for a Hero Academy ranked twentieth in the Asia-Pacific? They were using formalities to handle private business.

Empty City could think of only two reasons.

First: manpower shortage. They wanted Dean Celestial Wolf to return.

But that wouldn’t require Mira—the strongest hero—right?

So… only the second option remained.

Night Zero tugged Empty City’s sleeve, stopping him mid-step.

"What’s wrong?"

"Mira’s coming… it’s definitely because of you."

"Well, if it’s for me, fine. I don’t know Mira anyway. But since she helped you plan the jailbreak, she wants to help. Good—I owe her thanks."

But… why did Empty City sense tension from Night Zero?

Her grip on his sleeve felt like a warning not to go, even though class was next.

"Mira-chan told me she wouldn’t visit during the Apostle Invasion. Too busy—and to avoid suspicion. We’re hidden well because no one here knows us. My hero identity and your past are secret; the dean covered any traces. But them coming now? With so many people? Most hadn’t awakened Meta Abilities five years ago… but what if someone witnessed your battles?"

If Night Zero was right… that was a real problem. Had peaceful days dulled his mind?

After a pause, Empty City spoke.

"Don’t worry. This might be unplanned. And… no matter what, I’ll be fine. I’ll always stay by your side. So, relax."

He took her hand clutching his sleeve and gently held it.

Feeling its warmth, he suddenly placed his other hand on her head.

Night Zero looked up dazedly. His tender smile made her blush.

Stroking her silky hair, his soft words reached her ears. She nodded unconsciously.

Right.

Nothing to fear. This man was the strongest. Her boyfriend was unbeatable.

Knowing that was enough.

.....

Near noon, as morning classes ended, an ordinary car stopped at Fiers Hero Academy’s gate.

"Yikes… so this is Celestial Wolf’s academy?"

A girl stepped out in heels, flicking her short aqua-blue hair.

Her bright blue eyes scanned the grounds, a faint smile on her lips.

This was Hero Headquarters’ strongest hero!

Mira!!