I Entered an Academy in a Ruined Game

Chapter 44 : The Eve (1)

It was Friday, with the second weekend just ahead after completing the first class with the guidance instructor.

"Before starting the morning routine, you need to complete a document."

Instructor Kim Cheol-han said.

"Class President, Vice President. Please distribute the handouts."

"Yes, sir."

Yu-jin and I stood up and distributed the two-page handouts.

"Tsk."

Park Chang-jun clicked his tongue as if dissatisfied, lowering his eyes to avoid my gaze.

'You really look pathetic.'

I whispered softly as I passed by him.

"Stop being scared. Afraid I'll hit you again?"

"......"

"Hmm. If everyone has received it, check the contents."

The handout contained sample photos of various types of masks.

"You all probably know that every Execution Force member orders and wears special anti-Ma-in masks."

"Yes, sir!"

The cadets answered to Kim Cheol-han's words.

"As you can see, although they're called masks, they can be designed like gas masks. They can also be made like helmets or iron masks. What's important is that they completely seal the respiratory system while having enough mobility to not fall off during intense combat."

"Do we have to choose one of the sample images?"

Seo Jun-seong asked.

"You can choose from there, or you can list some preferences based on them. They'll make them with appropriate compromises."

"Ohhh."

"Finally, I get to have one of those masks too."

The cadets' eyes lit up at the mask designs that felt like superhero costumes.

For good reason, these special masks were like the uniform symbolizing the Execution Force.

"Providing these masks means that a curriculum requiring you to face Ma-in is being prepared."

Kim Cheol-han said.

"So there's no need to be too excited. I'd prefer if the tragedy of having to reclaim the masks doesn't occur."

"......"

'Still the same.'

Look at his skill in instantly freezing the class atmosphere with just a few words.

"You should know well that the blood of demonic beasts and Ma-in contains magical energy, and if inhaled through the nose or mouth, it accumulates in the body like heavy metals."

"Yes, sir."

"But in the case of hunters, they suppress the magical energy to a level manageable by the immune system through quota control and a drug called Ma-in suppressant. Have you ever seen hunters wearing masks?"

"It seems we rarely have."

"Then why does only the Execution Force wear special masks?"

"Because Ma-in blood has stronger infectivity than demonic beast blood."

Hwang Ji-su answered.

"That's right. It's similar to how zoonotic diseases spread more effectively between humans. This is why the Execution Force needs the protective device of masks."

'Of course, that's not the whole story.'

Only I, knowing the background setting, quietly thought to myself.

"There are more reasons. The items themselves are so rare that they can't be issued to each and every hunter unless they are high-ranking. As you know, even licensed hunters are enormous in number."

"I see."

"Making masks requires advanced mana engineering techniques. Moreover, because the materials used in the filters are extremely rare, the government directly produces them and strictly restricts private trade. The quantity is also extremely limited. This is the same for Ma-in suppressants."

As Kim Cheol-han continued to explain that this was the reason why the state could maintain control and social systems even in an era of incredibly powerful individuals like hunters, Execution Force members, Ma-in, and demonic beasts, most cadets seemed to nod in understanding.

But in my eyes, I could see Nam Tae-hoon smiling with an inscrutable expression.

'From this side's perspective, that may be true, but from the other side's perspective, it must feel like having a leash.'

"The primary reason for wearing masks is, of course, to block exposure to magical energy. But there's another important function. Can anyone guess what it is?"

"Protective function, sir."

Seo Jun-seong raised his hand.

"Hmm. That's also correct."

"Fashion, sir!"

Jeremy McGarr interjected with a confident voice.

"What do you mean?"

"They look cool! Distinctive, stylish equipment is like a symbol representing that unit! Like the legendary cavalry unit Winged Hussars who carried long spears and collapsed enemy lines...!"

"Hmm. Though it sounds like a joke, that's also partially correct."

Kim Cheol-han nodded but made the cadets shrink with his disappointed expression.

"But try to think more deeply and answer. It shouldn't be such a difficult question."

"It's for identity protection purposes."

It was none other than I who provided the answer he expected.

"Why do you think so?"

"The Ma-in organizations that Execution Force members must face have the characteristics of underworld organizations like mafias, cartels, or yakuza. Therefore, if the members' personal information is revealed, there's a risk of private retaliation against their families."

"That's an accurate answer."

Kim Cheol-han nodded with satisfaction.

"That's why, in principle, they wear masks during operations and call each other by code names."

This time, Yu-jin, who easily caught something strange in his explanation, raised her hand.

"But both our instructors and people like Jun-seong's father have their names and faces well-known. Why is that?"

"There's a reason for that too."

As she said, there were members like Song Young-hwan who used their real names and often went around without masks in the field.

"It's an expression of confidence, inviting anyone seeking revenge to come find them. It's an act of displaying their power."

"Ah, I see."

"Therefore, among squad leaders and captains of the Execution Force, many display their real names and faces without hesitation. They aim to be symbols of hope for citizens and objects of hatred and fear for Ma-in."

"Wow."

The cadets' eyes sparkled in admiration of such courage.

"That's cool."

"They are people who fully deserve such honor."

"B-but what about terrorism against their families?"

Kim A-yun asked as if she didn't quite understand.

"Hmm. Families can choose to live in protected areas if they wish. Attacking such a place would be as reckless as attacking a military base."

'That neighborhood is also full of retired former captain-level individuals.'

In terms of martial arts, it would be like a divine forest where retired hermits live as farmers?

'No Ma-in who attacked there has ever come out unscathed.'

While Su-hyeon was thinking this, Seo Jun-seong also had an expression that seemed somewhat sickened by old memories.

'He must be thinking of Min Hae-na.'

Thanks to his father, who was called a hero of the Execution Force, Seo Jun-seong had grown up in a protected area since childhood.

The undisputed leader among peers at that time was Min Hae-na.

Thanks to Min Hae-na, who had maximum execution ability and extraordinary strength even back then, Seo Jun-seong spent his childhood being dragged around and getting involved in incidents—that was the setting.

"From your perspective, there may be parts that are difficult to understand. Why must Execution Force members, who protect citizens and safeguard social order, be constantly exposed to such threats? You might feel it's unfair."

"I do think it seems somewhat unfair."

Kwon Seung-yeon was especially sensitive when family matters came up.

"That's why it's difficult to maintain your beliefs and follow your path. You must not yield to unjust and unreasonable interference and attacks. But think about it. Why was the Execution Force created in the first place?"

"Because Ma-in brutally killed civilians and stabbed their former hunter colleagues in the back, causing tremendous chaos."

I answered.

"That's right. That's the cause. The reason the Execution Force fights Ma-in is to protect citizens and hunters. That's why most decent citizens send us trust and respect."

But, Kim Cheol-han continued.

"Grudges are complicated things. Although Ma-in stabbed their former colleagues in the back, they too were someone's family and lover. If we subdue or sometimes execute them, where should their resentment be directed?"

"Are you saying it's like a murderer's family resenting the police? But isn't that a very twisted mindset?"

"It's no use protesting to me. What's important is the fact that they hold such grudges. Hasn't it happened quite often that being branded as a Ma-in's family or lover drives them into the shadows of the underworld?"

"That's......"

As if something resonated with her, Kwon Seung-yeon bit her lip.

"Do you understand what I'm saying? The bereaved families of Ma-in subdued by us may resent us, but they are not innocent either. They too can be targets of private revenge for the victims of Ma-in."

"......"

"Grudges are thus intertwined like a chain, impossible to easily cut or unravel."

"......"

The cadets' expressions grew heavy.

"Does it feel unbearable and unjust? This is the path you've chosen. It's a path you can't endure unless you always carry firm determination in your heart."

'Good.'

I thought.

In the face of the approaching great storm.

It was welcome if Kim Cheol-han's speech like this could establish even a bit of firm resolve in the still young and fragile cadets.

'Then perhaps we can save more cadets.'

In the same context, getting the masks as quickly as possible was also a very important prerequisite.

Fighting Ma-in without masks is taboo.

Therefore, when there's a sudden attack by Ma-in, if cadets don't have masks, they become flustered and hesitant about fighting itself.

'That moment of hesitation divides life and death.'

It would be even better if we could reveal the ambush facts on a large scale and prevent it.

But expressing concerns without any basis would just be a conspiracy theory.

Moreover, considering that this event leads to a chain of major growth for named characters and subsequent events.

The extent to which I could intervene was best limited to this much.

"Any more questions?"

Hwang Ji-su raised her hand.

"When can we receive the masks?"

"You'll receive them right away on Monday after the weekend."

"Where are they made?"

"The Support Department within our academy completes the exterior of the masks, and the internal filters are sent to a government-operated laboratory for installation before being delivered. It's not a particularly time-consuming process."

'Lim Eun-seo said she would use good materials for mine.'

I glanced at the samples.

'Sample number 13. Request initial S on the left cheek area.'

It was a signal I had arranged with Lim Eun-seo in advance.

'She said she would reinforce it with Cockatrice mud armor for increased protection and make it lightweight.'

Since she said she'd do it because it was leftover material and I had brought it, I didn't decline and accepted it.

'She's looking after me in this way too.'

Seeing her show this level of goodwill with that personality, I suspected she might have more materials she wanted to obtain soon.

Because.

Today again, she said she had something to give me after the afternoon duties, so I should come to the workshop for a moment.

❀⋆｡°✿☆❀✿°｡⋆❀

"Oh, here comes our lucky charm!"

Lim Eun-seo opened the workshop door with a broad smile.

"Sorry, sorry! I was going to come to you when I had time, but as you know, I'll be busy until the weekend with the mask business!"

"It's fine. What did you call me for?"

At Su-hyeon's question, Lim Eun-seo smiled triumphantly.

"Hehe. It's this."

What Lim Eun-seo took out was a hwando with a simple structure and a hook on the scabbard.

"I heard you're learning swordsmanship from Instructor Lee Ho-seung these days? I know his style a bit, so I made one with the leftover materials."

"You must have been busy."

"Oh, it was quick because of the simple structure. It was only a bit troublesome during tempering and heat cycle treatment. For this big sis, that's nothing."

Lim Eun-seo waved her hand dismissively.

"Try drawing it."

Sling.

Along with a refreshing sound, a white blade appeared.

The color and curves of the sword, its shape, sharpness, and center of gravity.

Su-hyeon instinctively felt the sword's high quality just by drawing it once.

"It's beautiful."

The decoration of the handle and scabbard with the shell of a turtle-type demonic beast also caught his eye.

"Hehehe, it's my small token of sincerity."

'This should be quite usable even against Ma-in.'

"I've already obtained a possession permit from the academy, so you can just wear it around. The blade isn't sharpened, but be careful."

"Thank you for your consideration."

"It's nothing. This is all an investment, an investment."

"I'll return more than your investment."

"Yes. Cool transactions build trust."

Lim Eun-seo smiled with satisfaction.

"Thank you."

'It would be perfect to debut it during my sparring with Yu-jin later.'

"You can go now. I have to give up my weekend for the masks."

Lim Eun-seo grumbled, wondering why they didn't just do it slowly or order in advance instead of scheduling work that way.

"But you'll rest on Monday and Tuesday, right?"

"That's why I'm enduring it."

"I see."

I subtly examined Lim Eun-seo's expression and said:

"By the way, senior."

"Yes?"

"Could I ask for one more favor?"

"...You're the type who quietly makes sure to collect everything, aren't you?"

❀⋆｡°✿☆❀✿°｡⋆❀

Before sparring with Su-hyeon, Yu-jin, who was meticulously cleaning the practice swords that she and Su-hyeon would wield, suddenly thought:

'It seems like Su-hyeon had some major realization over the past two days.'

Su-hyeon had even boasted that today's sparring would be more fun than before.

'I wonder what he learned from Instructor Lee Ho-seung?'

Speaking of Lee Ho-seung, she was also acquainted with him.

Because from when she was very young, she had entered the dojo several times to learn swordsmanship, or even after joining the Execution Force, despite her continuous success, he would occasionally visit and spar with top-tier cadets.

'He also sparred a lot with my youngest uncle.'

Sword Warrior Lee Cheong-myeong, referred to as the Sword God's top disciple and one of the highest-level swordsmen.

Of course, Lee Cheong-myeong was far ahead in terms of win rate.

But she remembered that Lee Ho-seung showed explosive and sharp aspects that caused even him difficulty when he ignited.

That's why she had also considered receiving guidance from him, but.

[Hoseung's sword pursues his own style. Perhaps only he can do that. It's strong, but it won't match well with you for learning.]

Following her grandfather's advice, she had requested guidance from another instructor, and she thought she had learned quite a lot even on the first day.

Among them, what impressed her most was that she had newly learned about the concept of fighting against an opponent with a characteristic by utilizing her own characteristic, rather than just the simple realm of swordsmanship.

[Your sword is already beyond discussing basics. You're at the stage where you should find your own sword and consider how to fight in actual combat by utilizing your characteristic. In terms of simple swordsmanship, you're probably the best among the cadets here. Even including the third-years.]

But.

[If asked whether you're the strongest in actual combat? Probably not yet.]

When she heard the instructor's words, Yu-jin thought of Su-hyeon.

The reason why she couldn't overwhelm Su-hyeon in sparring, though his swordsmanship level was obviously incomparable to hers.

She wanted to fight with that question in mind during today's sparring.

'It would have been better if we had done it together yesterday.'

With a bit of regret and expectation, Yu-jin put the sword back in its scabbard.

'I should go early.'

Not long after Yu-jin arrived, Su-hyeon also appeared before the scheduled time.

"You came early."

"No, I just got here too."

"That's good. Let's go in."

"Okay."

After entering the training room, before taking out her sword, Yu-jin noticed a sword attached to Su-hyeon's waist in a somewhat unfamiliar form.

"...What's that sword?"

"Ah. I was going to tell you about it anyway."

Su-hyeon showed her the sword and said:

"As you can see, it's a hwando. You're familiar with this type of sword, right?"

"Yes. But it's not easy to obtain."

"Well. I received it from Senior Lim Eun-seo."

Su-hyeon answered as if showing off.

"...That senior again?"

Yu-jin's eyebrows twitched.

"Why?"

"Su-hyeon, you seem to be quite close with that person."

"Do I? I don't think we're particularly close..."

"I see."

Recalling that Su-hyeon had been reluctant to talk about how he became close with her from before, Yu-jin stopped further questions and drew her practice sword.

"Shall we start right away?"

"Yes."

Yu-jin answered.

"I want to fight more intensely today, like a real battle."

"We can see what kind of progress we've both made."

Yu-jin didn't respond to that.

"Here I come."

But for some reason.

The "combat aggressiveness" that Su-hyeon usually worried about regarding her seemed abundantly filled today.

'Today her momentum is different from usual?'

Su-hyeon unconsciously swallowed.