Kabanata 542: Black fog [1]

Voom—! 

The space shifted, forming a small portal through which several figures emerged.

"We're back...!" 

"...It's really the Academy!" 

"I can't believe it... Am I dreaming?" 

As they stepped into the familiar surroundings, several of the cadets couldn't hide their emotions. Though it didn't reach the point of tears, one could see the noticeable longing on their faces as they stepped into the familiar environment. 

It had truly been quite a while. Finally, they were back home. 

At least, this was how they felt at first. 

"Wait, are we really back?" 

In the midst of their cheers, they suddenly took notice of the Academy's condition, their expressions quickly changing to one of bewilderment. 

"What is this...?" 

"Did we really return? ...Or are we still in the Kasha?" 

To their shock and confusion, the Academy they had returned to was nothing like the one they had left behind.