Chapter 317: I Am Your Teacher

"I see you are truly amazing. Congratulations on reaching first place!"

Lina's voice sounded soft, but there was a hint of teasing in her tone, as if she wanted to see Haruto's reaction.

Haruto simply stared at Lina with a flat expression.

"That's just because they are foolish."

The response made Lina raise an eyebrow slightly.

"Eh...? Is that so?"

Lina smiled, but this time her gaze shifted slightly. Her sharp eyes were directed straight at Haruto, as if she were observing him more closely.

"But... you seem restless?"

Haruto paused for a moment. His expression remained flat, but inside, he realized that Lina had a special ability that couldn't be ignored.

Lina was an Anomaly, someone with unique powers. Her ability was Heart Reading, which allowed her to sense the emotions of others, no matter how deeply they tried to hide them.

Haruto looked at Lina sharply, trying to conceal his thoughts.

However, Lina just smiled. She stepped closer to Haruto, standing right in front of him.

"Haruto Sato..."

This time, Lina's tone was a bit more serious.

"I am your teacher. As your teacher, I want to know your problems and help you solve them. So... if you have something bothering you, tell me, okay?"

Lina extended her hand and gently ruffled Haruto's hair.

The gesture surprised Haruto. Not many people dared to touch him like this, especially in such a... gentle manner.

For a moment, Haruto remained silent. His eyes widened slightly, but his expression remained hard to read.

Finally, Haruto lowered his head a little.

"I understand... but I can't tell you. Not now."

Lina continued to smile. She patted Haruto's head once more before turning and walking away.

"Alright. Then I'll wait."

As Lina reached the door, she paused and turned back to Haruto.

"Ah! If you want to go out of the stadium or stay inside to watch the Sports Festival, it's up to you. You've completed the first event, so you're free for today."

Lina smiled before finally leaving.

Haruto stood there, contemplating Lina's words.

‘Waiting, huh...’

For the first time in a while, Haruto felt a bit uncertain.

...

...

...

Haruto stepped out of the City Academy Stadium, allowing the afternoon breeze to brush against his slightly sweaty face.

The hot air mixed with the aroma of food wafting in the air. The sky was clear, with the sun faintly hidden behind thin clouds.

Haruto's gaze swept around, capturing the rows of colorful tents lined along the City Academy street. Sunlight illuminated the area, creating a warm atmosphere amidst the cool gentle breeze.

Vendors were busy shouting their wares, offering a variety of goods and food to the academy students still wandering around this small night market.

The tempting smell of food pierced Haruto's nose—grilled meat emitting a distinctive smoky aroma, sweets fragrant with caramelized nuts, and spices filling the air with appetizing scents.

However, Haruto did not stop. He passed through the crowd, ignoring the vendors trying to attract the attention of buyers.

Haruto's steps were steady, but his mind was in turmoil.

The Soul Collectors...

Even though they had been defeated, Haruto still couldn't feel at ease. He knew that cornered evil was not the kind that would easily give up.

There were still quite a few members who had escaped, especially the high-ranking officials of the organization who fled before their headquarters was raided.

Could they just give up like that?

Of course not.

Haruto sighed, his gaze dimming slightly.