At night, a cold wind blew gently, making people pull their clothes tighter around themselves.
Neon lights lit up the city's streets and alleys, guiding people through the dark.
But in darkness no one saw, countless others began to emerge, bearing heavy responsibilities and a mission.
Atop a teaching building at Pearl Academy, a man in a blue cloak stood at the edge. The flash of blue stood out starkly against the night.
He was powerfully built, wore Bluetooth Earbuds, and gazed out over the campus.
A closer look would have revealed dark energy swirling around him, enveloping his entire body.
"How are things on your end?"
Only after a long pause did he speak.
"Not good. The five men I sent out have vanished. That kid probably took them out, and the Shadow Demon Beast is most likely in his hands now."
"Damn it! If Salang hadn't kept us in check, we wouldn't be stuck without a single competent subordinate!"
"There's still a chance. That kid's younger brother posted a message saying he'll bring the Shadow Demon Beast to the Beast-Taming Iron Cage at midnight."
The burly man paused, then gave a disdainful laugh.
"You mean... that kid put the word out on purpose to lure us in?"
"Yeah, probably."
"Hmph. That brat has no idea what he's getting into. I'll teach him a lesson he won't forget."
"Don't underestimate him. He killed twenty-five Black Beast Demons, so he's clearly capable. Your Magic Tool can hide your Advanced Level aura for a while, but you still need to be careful."
The person on the other end sounded uneasy and warned him again and again.
"I know. How are things with you?"
The burly man answered impatiently and changed the subject.
"Don't worry, over here I—"
Before he could finish,