Chapter 160

Emma faced three opponents, a situation unlike any she'd encountered before. The arbitration instructor found himself in a quandary. He declared, "Even though she fought one against three, school rules don't absolve her of responsibility." This meant Emma's removal from the Hero Rank.

Immediately, someone countered, "The rules need improvement. Emma is outstanding. Do you want her removed? These three girls bullied others. The school prohibits fighting, now even duels! What should Emma do? What lousy rules!"

This single sentence ignited student anger. The instructor bellowed, "Quiet! This is inappropriate! Why are you so undisciplined?"

The crowd quieted somewhat, but support for Emma persisted. "We obey orders, but demand justice for Emma!" "She upheld justice and won the duel! It's not her fault she's outstanding!" "Exactly! You're punishing someone who does good! We demand justice for Emma!"

A heated debate ensued. Student emotions ran high, leaving the school in a difficult position. Seeing this, Emma stepped forward. "I can be removed from the Hero Rank. But these three girls seriously violated school discipline!"

The instructor responded, "They are suspected of serious disciplinary violations. We will punish them impartially."

"Alright," Emma replied, calmly leaving the arena and heading towards the Hero Rank.

Chapter 160

At the Icovine Estate, Levi reported to Liam, "Mr. Hall, I've investigated Emma as you requested. This is her only best friend from several years ago. She died five years ago in the Krot Competition. She attended Charon Military School. I suspect Emma's attendance was due to this friend." Liam reviewed Justine's photo and information.

Levi continued, "Her grave is in suburban Troln City. Emma visited recently."

Liam inquired, "How did her duel go?" Levi, having already briefed Liam, nodded. "Everything proceeded as instructed. I informed Richard; he'll handle it." Liam nodded in agreement. The three girls initiated the attack; Emma was justified in responding. He'd already contacted Richard about her removal from the Hero Rank before the duel even began.

Chapter 160

Emma, surrounded by students, entered the Hero Rank – a massive stone wall encompassing nearly the entire school. It bore the names and mottos of heroes, surrounded by thousands of student name emblems. This represented the pride and aspirations of every Charon student.

Emma approached her gleaming emblem, earned as this year's obstacle course champion; its placement central among her peers. She was about to remove it.

A student pleaded, "Emma… Don't. You're outstanding. Ask the instructor again."

"That's right!" others echoed.

Emma remained silent. Removal was irreversible. She took a deep breath, reaching for the emblem…

"Wait!" A deep voice boomed. An elderly man in a military uniform, radiating dignity, approached with a loving gaze. "Girl, this emblem isn't so easily removed. The Hero Rank is the highest honor for those who serve. We dedicate our lives to this; it's our glory. We don't just take it off."

The instructors were stunned. "Mr. Zahn!" they exclaimed.

Jerome Zahn, a renowned military senior and Richard's former mentor and friend, had witnessed Emma's early morning training. He'd commended her diligence to the principal. Richard's call had brought him here.

"What's happening? Emma did good; why punish her?" he demanded.

The disciplinary administrator stammered, "Mr. Zahn, we didn't intend to make things difficult; it's just the rules…"

"Can't you improve them?" Jerome challenged. He looked at Emma with admiration. "Depriving someone of their honor is like denying their hard work. I'm handling this. Her emblem stays!"

While others hesitated to challenge the rules, Jerome's words held more weight; he founded Charon Military School.

Emma respectfully stated, "Mr. Zahn, I broke the rules. There's no need for special treatment."

Jerome shook his head. "In this world, many things are reasonable yet against the rules. You did nothing wrong. These rules are decades old; they need refining."

The angry students calmed. Emma wouldn't remove her emblem. Jerome patted her shoulder. "See those famous heroes? Train hard, strive to be like them, and bring glory to our country!"

Emma nodded, noticing a familiar name – Blaze – amongst the emblems. Unlike others, it lacked a portrait, only the name.

Jerome explained, "Blaze, a famed boxing master, wasn't a student. Her spirit inspires us; she's an example. That's why her emblem is here."

Emma gazed at the emblem, remembering Dummy's previous presence. Jerome urged, "Cherish your emblem."

An assistant announced, "Emma, someone wishes to see you; they've been waiting in the forest. Please follow me."

Emma's heart leaped. 'It's him! It must be him!' she thought.