The Extra Who Shouldn't Exist novel Chapter 30

Chapter 30: Chapter 30: Arrival in the zenith academy

The hum of medical equipment formed a soft background as Alex stepped into the familiar corridor of the Avaloria General Hospital.

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.

Room 314.

He reached the door and paused for a second, letting a breath escape his lips before gently pushing it open.

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."

" I already beat the record on this level," she said, tongue out slightly in mock annoyance.

Alex raised an eyebrow, "That record was mine. You little goblin."

She grinned and finally looked up. "Goblins don't have this much style."

"Debatable," Alex chuckled, sitting beside her.

Alex chuckled, walking over to ruffle her hair. " you're sassier than yesterday. Guess we're even."

"Flattery won't save you. Where's my chocolate?"

He raised an eyebrow. "You're in a high-tech facility, getting the best nutrients in the galaxy, and you still crave chocolate?"

Lily gave him a mock glare. "Don't dodge the question, Alex."

He pulled a small packet from his pocket and tossed it to her. "Fine. Just one piece. Doctor's orders."

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."

Her chewing paused. "Why? Did something happen?"

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."

Her eyes widened. "Whoa. For real? Already?"

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."

Lily blinked, the corners of her eyes softening. "You're doing this… for me?"

Alex smiled. "I'm doing it for both of us."

"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?"

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."

She pouted. "Booo."

"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."

Lily's eyes lit up. "Ooh, so I get to watch you get wrecked live? Perfect."

He gave a dry smile. "Oh how I wish everyone had a sister like you."

"And thanks for the motivation my dear sister"

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."

Lily blinked, surprised by the sudden sincerity. She looked away, cheeks flushing. "You big idiot... Don't make promises you can't keep."

"I always keep the ones that matter."

"You sap," she muttered, tearing up.

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."

Lily wiped her eyes, smiling through the tears. "Deal. Just don't become some famous academy snob."

"No promises," Alex said with a wink.

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."

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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.

"Her vitals are stable," she said before he could ask. "Still no major fluctuations. The new therapy we've used is helping."

Alex nodded, then tapped on his EtherPad, transferring 200,000 credits.

Emma's eyes widened. "That's… Alex again, this is a lot."

"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."

Doctor Emma stared at him for a second, then smiled. "You're a good brother."

"She's all I've got," Alex said simply. Then, with a slight bow of gratitude, he left the hospital.

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That evening, Alex packed his gear meticulously. His new A-rank enchanted sword rested on the wall beside his bag.

He checked everything twice, then stepped out onto the balcony of his small house, watching the distant glow of Avaloria's skyline.

The air was crisp, and the city lights shimmered under the twin moons. Airbikes zipped by, and the distant hum of Skyrails echoed faintly.

Massive digital billboards displayed academy entrance countdowns, heroic projections, and commercial ads for mana boosters.

A part of Alex's heart raced.

Another part whispered: This is it.

The next morning.

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.

He inhaled.

"The day has finally come… and I am prepared for everything fate throws at me."

With that, he locked the door and left.

The transportation hub to Zenith was located on the outskirts of Avaloria, a massive spire-like tower that pierced the clouds.

Lines of students, all carrying high-grade gear and hopeful expressions, stretched out before it.

Some wore noble family sigils. Others were commoners with determination blazing in their eyes.

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.

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.

Billboards of past Zenith champions glowed bright, reminding all of the glory that awaited.

Alex smiled. His fingers brushed against the hilt of his sword.

"Time to become part of that legend," he murmured.

Inside the spire, teleportation portals shimmered like vertical pools of water. Staff members directed students into position.

As Alex approached, he noticed a few nobles giving him sideways glances, clearly judging his appearance.

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