The Killer in The Clasrroom Of The Elite

Chapter 19

Chapter 19: A New Layer of Shadows

As dawn broke over the academy grounds, Alex's thoughts were clouded by the previous night's events. The ambush had been too deliberate, too calculated to be a random attack. Whoever orchestrated it not only knew his reputation but seemed to have inside information about his bond with Arisu. The mere thought of someone targeting her made his blood simmer. This was no mere rival—this was someone who intended to challenge his loyalty, someone ready to hurt her to get to him.

He slipped into the academy's training room early, avoiding the usual bustle of students. He needed to sharpen his skills, to be certain he was ready for whatever came next. But as he began to practice, his mind wandered, replaying the ambush and his lethal response to the attackers. He'd nearly gone too far, losing himself in the heat of battle. If it hadn't been for Arisu's calm intervention, he might have let his bloodlust consume him completely.

Just then, a soft voice interrupted his thoughts. "Up early as always, I see."

He turned to see Arisu standing in the doorway, her expression warm but with an edge of concern in her eyes. She walked over, her presence calm and grounding, a stark contrast to the storm raging within him.

"You don't have to go through this alone, Alex," she said softly, her gaze steady and unwavering. "I know what happened last night was intense, but we're a team. You're not the only one who has a stake in this."

He met her eyes, his usual stoic expression softened. "I know. It's just... difficult. You were nearly hurt because of me. If anything happened to you..."

She placed a hand on his shoulder, silencing his words. "Nothing happened, thanks to you. But I want to be clear about one thing: I trust you completely. Whoever sent those men wants to make you feel isolated, to push you into thinking this is a battle you have to fight on your own. Don't let them succeed, Alex."

Her words sank in, grounding him. In her presence, he felt his purpose solidify, a reminder that his strength was only as powerful as the support he accepted.

With a nod, he responded, "I understand. Thank you, Arisu."

Later that day, as Alex and Arisu navigated the academy halls, they couldn't ignore the whispers and stares that followed them. News of the attempted ambush had spread, though details were scarce. Most students knew only that someone had tried to harm Arisu, but the rumors painted Alex as the silent, lethal defender who had barely held back his fury.

As they entered the main lecture hall, Alex noticed Kakeru Ryuuen sitting in his usual spot, his gaze sharp and fixated on them. A trace of a smirk played on his lips, but beneath it, Alex could sense a flicker of something else—fear. The last encounter between the two had left an impression, one that Ryuuen hadn't forgotten. Alex's intense aura and his apparent willingness to do whatever it took to protect Arisu had shaken him, and it showed in the slight stiffness in Ryuuen's posture.

Arisu, ever perceptive, caught the exchange and leaned over to Alex. "Ryuuen seems... different around you lately," she whispered, a hint of amusement in her voice.

Alex gave a slight nod, keeping his voice low. "He knows I won't tolerate anyone threatening you. Last time, I think he realized just how far I'm willing to go."

Arisu chuckled softly. "It's probably good for him to be a little wary. Keeps him from causing too much trouble."

The lecture began, pulling their attention away from Ryuuen. But even as the instructor spoke, Alex's mind remained on edge. He sensed something brewing beneath the surface—a network of plots and schemes all focused on testing his limits and forcing him to react.