[{"data":1,"prerenderedAt":-1},["ShallowReactive",2],{"origin-the-extra-who-shouldn-t-exist":3,"chapter-the-extra-who-shouldn-t-exist-the-extra-who-shouldn-t-exist-chapter-30":6},{"origin":4,"title":5},"english","The Extra Who Shouldn't Exist",{"chapter":7,"nextChapterSlug":19,"prevChapterSlug":20,"totalChapters":21,"novelImage":22},{"id":8,"novel_id":9,"title":10,"slug":11,"index":12,"content":13,"wordcount":14,"created_at":15,"updated_at":15,"volume":16,"translator":17,"content_hash":18},1549953,2013,"Chapter 30: Arrival in the zenith academy","the-extra-who-shouldn-t-exist-chapter-30",30,"\u003Cp>The hum of medical equipment formed a soft background as Alex stepped into the familiar corridor of the Avaloria General Hospital.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Sunlight filtered through the sterile glass windows, casting a warm glow across the white tiles. Nurses moved briskly through the hallways, but Alex paid them no mind. He had only one destination.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Room 314.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He reached the door and paused for a second, letting a breath escape his lips before gently pushing it open.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Inside, Lily sat upright in bed, her holographic EtherPad propped on a side table, fingers dancing across the screen. She looked up and grinned. \"You're five minutes late, future hero.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\" I already beat the record on this level,\" she said, tongue out slightly in mock annoyance.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Alex raised an eyebrow, \"That record was mine. You little goblin.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>She grinned and finally looked up. \"Goblins don't have this much style.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Debatable,\" Alex chuckled, sitting beside her.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Alex chuckled, walking over to ruffle her hair. \" you're sassier than yesterday. Guess we're even.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Flattery won't save you. Where's my chocolate?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He raised an eyebrow. \"You're in a high-tech facility, getting the best nutrients in the galaxy, and you still crave chocolate?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Lily gave him a mock glare. \"Don't dodge the question, Alex.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He pulled a small packet from his pocket and tossed it to her. \"Fine. Just one piece. Doctor's orders.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As she unwrapped it gleefully, he sat beside her bed, the smile on his face slowly softening. \"Lily… I came to say I won't be able to visit for a while.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Her chewing paused. \"Why? Did something happen?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He shook his head. \"No. Nothing bad. Actually… today's the last time I'll see you before the entrance exam. Tomorrow, I leave for Zenith Academy.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Her eyes widened. \"Whoa. For real? Already?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He nodded, voice gentle. \"Yeah. I've been preparing for this for a long time. You know that. But once I'm in… I'll have access to things—connections, resources—that could help us find a real cure. Not just stabilize your condition.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Lily blinked, the corners of her eyes softening. \"You're doing this… for me?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Alex smiled. \"I'm doing it for both of us.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"So you'll be off to the big, shiny academy soon, huh? Gonna forget your sickly little sister and hang out with sword-wielding royals?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Alex ruffled her hair gently. \"I could never forget you. But I won't be able to visit for a while. Entrance exam's going to be intense.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>She pouted. \"Booo.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"But,\" he added, taking out the etherPad, \"we can still video call. Anytime. And you can also watch the enterance exam live because it will be broadcasted live in all over the world.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Lily's eyes lit up. \"Ooh, so I get to watch you get wrecked live? Perfect.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He gave a dry smile. \"Oh how I wish everyone had a sister like you.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"And thanks for the motivation my dear sister\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Then, more seriously, he added, \"Zenith is more than just status. It's the place where I can find answers. even a real cure for you.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Lily blinked, surprised by the sudden sincerity. She looked away, cheeks flushing. \"You big idiot... Don't make promises you can't keep.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"I always keep the ones that matter.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"You sap,\" she muttered, tearing up.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He gently flicked her forehead. \"Hey, no crying. I'll still call you. Every evening. Video calls, okay? So don't go finding another big brother. I'm still under contract.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Lily wiped her eyes, smiling through the tears. \"Deal. Just don't become some famous academy snob.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"No promises,\" Alex said with a wink.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He stayed a little longer, talking, joking, and even helping her beat a level in a mobile rhythm game before finally standing up. \"Time to talk to Doctor Emma.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>------------\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Doctor Emma stood in her office, reviewing Lily's latest scans. She was a tall woman with sharp features, but there was warmth in her eyes when she looked up and saw Alex.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Her vitals are stable,\" she said before he could ask. \"Still no major fluctuations. The new therapy we've used is helping.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Alex nodded, then tapped on his EtherPad, transferring 200,000 credits.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Emma's eyes widened. \"That's… Alex again, this is a lot.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"She deserves the best,\" Alex replied firmly. \"Put her on the premium-tier Mana Circulation Therapy, and bring in a personal specialist. Don't hold back on anything. If you need more money contact me.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Doctor Emma stared at him for a second, then smiled. \"You're a good brother.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"She's all I've got,\" Alex said simply. Then, with a slight bow of gratitude, he left the hospital.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>--------\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>That evening, Alex packed his gear meticulously. His new A-rank enchanted sword rested on the wall beside his bag.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He checked everything twice, then stepped out onto the balcony of his small house, watching the distant glow of Avaloria's skyline.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The air was crisp, and the city lights shimmered under the twin moons. Airbikes zipped by, and the distant hum of Skyrails echoed faintly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Massive digital billboards displayed academy entrance countdowns, heroic projections, and commercial ads for mana boosters.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A part of Alex's heart raced.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Another part whispered: This is it.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The next morning.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He stood at the mirror, adjusting the high-collared black coat he had chosen. A sleek, reinforced travel coat. His eyes, sharp and determined, met his own reflection.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He inhaled.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"The day has finally come… and I am prepared for everything fate throws at me.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>With that, he locked the door and left.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The transportation hub to Zenith was located on the outskirts of Avaloria, a massive spire-like tower that pierced the clouds.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Lines of students, all carrying high-grade gear and hopeful expressions, stretched out before it.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Some wore noble family sigils. Others were commoners with determination blazing in their eyes.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Alex's journey through the city was fast, thanks to the high-speed skytram. Along the way, he marveled silently at the vastness of Avaloria. A fusion of magic and technology, the city floated above ancient ley lines that powered everything from elevators to holograms.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Giant flying constructs—Sky Beasts converted into transport ships—passed overhead, while elemental drones directed traffic. Magic-tech vendors sold potions and mana accessories from floating stalls.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Billboards of past Zenith champions glowed bright, reminding all of the glory that awaited.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Alex smiled. His fingers brushed against the hilt of his sword.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Time to become part of that legend,\" he murmured.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Inside the spire, teleportation portals shimmered like vertical pools of water. Staff members directed students into position.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As Alex approached, he noticed a few nobles giving him sideways glances, clearly judging his appearance.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He responded with a bright smile. \"Careful staring too long, gentlemen. You might fall in love.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>They scoffed. One muttered, \"Peasant.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Future Zenith Elite Peasant, thank you,\" Alex replied, stepping onto the glowing platform.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A little bit later alex turn came.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Candidate Name: Alex Dragonheart. Destination: Zenith Academy. Coordinates confirmed. Please step onto the teleportation circle.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The platform buzzed beneath him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Alex looked around one last time.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He thought of Lily, her fake glares and real affection. Of his parents, gone without a trace. Of the small apartment and the ramen dinners then he looked up.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Alex entered the portal.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>-------\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zenith Academy wasn't a single building. It was a sprawling floating city, shaped like a massive gear turning in the sky. Towering spires pierced the clouds, floating islands each one infused with glowing elemental runes.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A web of floating walkways connected levitating gardens, combat arenas, and impossibly grand halls.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>There was no other word for it.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>It looked divine.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Like the gods had decided to build a campus for their chosen warriors and scholars.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>I hovered down toward the main arrival platform, my boots touching solid ground at last. The air here was different—crisp, thick with magic, and tinged with something else.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Pressure.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>It was subtle but constant, like the atmosphere itself was testing\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>> \"Candidate Identified: Alex Dragonheart.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Welcome to Zenith Academy.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A soothing mechanical voice echoed from a floating crystal orb hovering nearby. It blinked once, then zoomed off into the distance.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>No applause. No welcome parade.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Good.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>I preferred it that way.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>I stood in silence, taking it all in.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This was where future kings trained.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Where transcendent sword arts were born.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Where Ethan Williams—the protagonist of the game—would one day rally allies to defeat the world-ending calamity.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And I… I was supposed to be long dead by now. Just a forgotten name in a dialogue box. A footnote in the lore.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But here I was.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Alive.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Breathing.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>With a sword on my back, a plan in my mind, and way too many butterflies in my stomach.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Let the game begin,\" I whispered.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A breeze blew through, carrying the scent of mana-rich flowers.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Somewhere in the distance, a bell tolled—a deep, reverberating chime that echoed through the clouds.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>It was the sound of something ancient.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Something powerful.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Something waiting.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A signal to enter.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>I didn't move right away.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>There were no other students nearby yet. No faces I recognized. Just me and the looming towers ahead.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Far in the distance, I spotted the Central Spire—a black-and-silver tower so tall it seemed to split the heavens. That was where the Headmaster resided. And beneath it, the Grand Archive, and…\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The Legacy Halls.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Places that, in the game, only the chosen few ever got to enter.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>I clenched my fists.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In this life, I would walk those halls. I'd make sure of it.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>No matter what fate had written, I wasn't going to follow the script.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>I wasn't going to play the role of a dead extra.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>I'd burn the damn script if I had to.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The floating platform lit up again, signaling the arrival of another batch of candidates in the distance.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But I didn't wait.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>I turned away, walking toward the entrance gates—two towering structures made of white stone and enchanted steel, each engraved with ancient runes glowing faintly in the dusk light.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The ground beneath me resonated with every step, as if acknowledging my presence.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>It felt like entering a different world.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>No, not just a different world.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A new reality.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And for the first time since transmigrating here, I didn't feel out of place.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>I felt exactly where I was meant to be.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As I reached the gates, the academy's emblem began to shimmer above them—a golden phoenix wrapped in chains, wings spread wide.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The inscription beneath it read:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>> \"Ascend Beyond Limits. Burn Bright, Even Against Fate.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>I smirked.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Fate's got nothing on me.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>With that, I stepped forward—\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>—into Zenith Academy.\u003C\u002Fp>",1745,"2026-06-06T07:14:56.876Z",1,"novelbin.me","201800120065dd77ed93b7a854bfda8a1587977ef0e771ebb97b9eca37320eca","the-extra-who-shouldn-t-exist-chapter-31","the-extra-who-shouldn-t-exist-chapter-29",418,"https:\u002F\u002Fnovelzhen.com\u002Fimages\u002Fcovers\u002Fthe-extra-who-shouldn-t-exist-cover.jpg"]