The Genius of Cloning in the Academy City

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A few hours later, we entered the reorganization phase.

Due to Violet’s nature, the reorganization was handled by others we had brought along as allies.

Fortunately, the casualties were minimal, but there was some damage when those monsters appeared in the latter half.

Just like the Student Council President of Aegis Academy right in front of me.

As the medical personnel removed the arrow lodged in her shoulder, Adela chuckled sheepishly.

“Hehe… this is so embarrassing. I shouldn’t show such a disgraceful side in front of my adorable junior.”

“It’s okay! That thing was a monster, right? You did your best, Sister!”

The archer in front of me seemed more bothered by her inability to respond properly than by the arrow she had taken.

That’s only natural. Just like Irene got hurt by the sword at Point C, every attempt Adela made to support was in vain.

“Damn it! To intercept everything!”

At Point C, we had barely pressed the sword-wielding foe into a trap, while the archer at Point B could be restrained by Sister’s covering fire as they approached.

The problem was that before she could use her Unique Ability appropriately, she shot one arrow and ran away.

“Should we also engage in a sniping battle next time? We need a better countermeasure!”

“Right! You’re a sniper after all!”

Ultimately, it was our fault for being careless and failing. We should have anticipated that there would be at least one combat Awakened One of that caliber on the opponent’s side.

Of course, there was another reason Adela was surprised.

“The enemy’s skill is quite impressive. I didn’t think they’d be able to wound Irene…”

Before Sister stood Irene, carefully inspecting the injury wrapped in bandages.

It seemed this injury had been quite shocking even for Adela, who was well aware of Irene’s abilities and physical traits.

“I have no excuse… it was just my mistake.”

“No, Irene. Even with regular monsters, injuring you, who has your unique ability, is highly exceptional. Your body can withstand even shells, right? You should be above average for a monster, and even among seasoned hunters, very few can deal that kind of power in a frontal confrontation.”

I agreed with Sister. Irene’s resilience is such that she could handle sparring as if it were a real fight with a sincere sword energy.

The fact that she had been hurt meant that her strength, magical output, and operational capabilities were all at abnormal levels.

“I don’t know. It has to be at least the strength of the two Scholarship Officers for this level…”

The more I thought about it, the more puzzling questions arose. In the end, the Rumyx Foundation possessed a secret weapon we hadn’t anticipated.

Moreover, it was possible that this was only the tip of the iceberg.

“Could it be a Rumyx self-made product? A cyborg?”

“No! Perhaps it could be utilizing what Laplacian left behind!”

In any case, we had to form a strategy for how to subdue those two human weapons next time.

The Violets pooled their collective intelligence to replay the battle and ponder how to incapacitate those bizarre entities.

Acquiring the devices was our top priority.

If Adela hadn’t blurted out a comment that caught my attention, I might have missed something even more important.

“By the way, that archer earlier? The more I think about it, the stranger it gets. The way she handles her weapon… the method of manipulating her arrows in battle.”

“She was really skilled, huh? But what’s the deal with that? Any issues?”

Adela’s expression darkened uncharacteristically.

“…The technique she used, although somewhat outdated, was our family’s archery style.”

The collective intelligence came to a sudden halt.

“Ugh.”

**

The scholars of the Rumyx Foundation meticulously investigated the now-ruined isolation site.

Under the protection of the soldiers from Arshite and the Armored Knights, the researchers continuously scanned the surroundings.

The deactivated Nimosys Protocol device floated above, thoroughly collecting the scene’s data.

[- Ether pattern scan in progress…]

[Analysis failed.]

Their movements were swift yet persistent.

Unfortunately, judging by the expression of the agent from the quarantine enforcement team holding the tablet, it seemed their investigation was falling short of its intended results.

“What’s the cause? Once again, we have failed to obtain meaningful data after Circle Cliff.”

In response to a question posed by one of the directors in the command room, the on-site researcher calmly reported via video communication.

“The target’s magical residue spreads far too rapidly into the atmosphere. Furthermore… there’s something difficult to comprehend. The target’s magical pattern is nearly random. There is some degree of regularity, but it’s at a level that makes it impossible to decipher. We can only confirm that ‘something’ existed in this space.”

In the backdrop of the on-site researcher, there were vivid signs of chaotic movement and the remains of a dreadful battle.

The director’s expression was one of dissatisfaction.

While deploying two Hellmen to successfully block access to the central archives at both strongholds was commendable, they had failed to secure any leads for the progress of the plans.

Director Quavna’s expression grew grim.

“If this continues, we’ll only end up repeating past battle patterns. Furthermore, we’ve revealed a trump card in the Hellmen. The enemy will enhance their vigilance even more. Now we must deploy a strategy to lure the Hellmen. We will be forced to deploy them according to their intentions. The situation hasn’t changed; we are still being pulled around.”

The finance director, 07, interjected into the conversation.

“Director 02, excessive worry is unnecessary. Once the initial production costs are invested, the operational efficiency of the Hellmen is superior to conventional weaponry. Its combat power was demonstrated this time, wasn’t it? Literally a one-man army.”

With 07’s statement as a starting point, other directors carefully offered their opinions.

“Raihan and his research methods were abnormal, but… the technological excellence of Laplacian cannot be denied. We might need to consider bringing back the Laplacian research team. The Hellmen project is worth re-evaluating. Now is the time to consider transitioning to mass production.”

“From a long-term perspective, let’s consider negotiating with Restraid. The key lies in having suitable pilots for the Golem project from Restraid. If we secure genetic samples from Germont Restraid or the first knight squad…”

Quavna, who was about to raise an objection, felt a surge of light-headedness.

Those who had hesitated from the start were now being swayed by a single achievement, attempting to cross the line of taboo. Discomfort washed over him.

‘What on earth are these people saying?’

“Directors, such a drastic change of stance is somewhat concerning.”

His finger pointed toward the opposite window.

“And one question for you all. Are those people really just duplicates?”

In one corner of the room, two men donned in pristine white protective gear were immobilized on restraining devices, undergoing ‘maintenance’.

If calling the act of penetrating dozens of probes into a human’s occipital region and affixing mechanical devices to both eyes maintenance, then yes.

Notably, they were maintaining full consciousness.

“Advance! Keep pushing forward! The hunters lead the charge! Move ahead first, and fall back last!”

“…Raise your swords. It’s one step closer to home! Let’s go! Go!”

With empty gazes, they continuously murmured.

Quavna’s facial expression twisted as he listened to their disjointed monologues.

Over the course of his past dealings for the foundation, he had done all sorts of dirty work, but this scene was enough to disorient him.

The reply came from a Laplacian executive standing next to him.

“These are not the true heroes from a century ago. They are mere replicas, holding reconstructed memories through relics and biological tracking. Just because they share identical memories, it doesn’t make them originals.”

“…Why do the subjects possess memories? There was no mention of this in the preliminary report. Was it intentionally omitted?”

At a gesture from the executive, a doctor in a green gown inscribed with the Laplacian emblem raised his head to respond.

“It was the chairman’s idea. To maximize their innate combat power, he deemed it effective to restore their memories from their former lives. One of the core elements of the Hellmen project was the perfect recreation of their martial arts!”

When the word ‘recreation of martial arts’ was mentioned, a director sought further clarification.

“Recreation of martial arts?”

“The first replication targets, the peak Grand Mage and the Witch of Lightning, were individuals with outstanding unique abilities and magical talent. The second research focused on perfectly recreating overwhelming physical prowess and martial skills. While we succeeded in manifesting physical capabilities, the key issue was the restoration of their former capabilities. Due to incomplete memories and issues related to control through suggestion, currently, the best we can achieve during maximum power output is about 55%. If we progress further, the suggestions will unravel.”

The two restrained people finally fell silent, closing their eyes. Signals began to blink on the monitors connected to the numerous probes and devices attached to their heads.

[- Ether pattern scan in progress…]
[Initial data measurement complete. Performing secondary analysis…]

The researchers’ expressions brightened.

“We’ve succeeded in identifying Ariel’s Ether pattern. We were also able to extract residual traces of magical power! Clearly, this is evidence of the brainwashing technology they implemented.”

The Laplacian executive continued with a tone of pride.

“…So the report of penetration into the quarantine enforcement interrogators was indeed true. The countermeasures against brainwashing were effective, as the sedatives and control drugs were added, amplifying the suggestion effects.”

One director expressed amazement.

“Indeed, the mental fortitude of the great heroes of the age.”

Several hours later, a crystal for Ether storage containing traces of bright-red particles was transported. Its final destination was the biological isolation research laboratory.

A satisfied smile crossed Secretary General Fegan’s lips as he received the report.

Although administrative vacancies and recovery from damages caused by the recent airstrike were expected to be difficult, this alone would be sufficient compensation.

“The pesticide project will soon reach completion.”

Near where the crystal storage arrived, a tightly sealed container writhed with black fog, sealed with a multi-layer containment system.

These pests that threatened the foundation and humanity’s system will find no foothold in this land again.

**

A bustling open plaza.

Once the meal was over, the personnel moved in an orderly fashion in one direction. The space, converted into a temporary rest area and waiting room, had desks for clerical staff arranged, while our Ariel Group kept an eye on the situation.

“Please line up! After receiving the documents, fill them out and submit!”

This place is a safe zone owned by a clan under Cascadia.

Until the foundation is fully incapacitated and rendered inoperative, we plan to remain here and then be transported to respective desired destinations or homes.

“What if I want to work?”

“The hiring decision will be based on your abilities!”

In reality, the reason for being sealed by the foundation could simply be that we went against the foundation’s will, but there could also be a chance due to the latent risk in our abilities.

What proceeded now was a basic identity verification process.

A simple form was distributed, allowing everyone to voluntarily provide their name, age, address, etc. Afterward, a second verification would compare this with separately collected information to confirm identities.

There were complaints from the people when this was first announced, but it couldn’t be helped.

“…What year is it now?”

Given that most had been in hibernation for a few years, there was no way to provide immediate answers.

They could also be agents of the foundation.

Ultimately, a dull scene akin to a community center unfolded.

Nonetheless, the television installed on the wall provided some comfort to our weary group waiting.

Our operation was being covered in the news.

<The foundation’s spokesperson expressed deep regret over the large-scale airstrike that occurred early this morning…>
<“The Foundation will never surrender! Against this terrorist group, like the monsters they are, we will respond firmly with emergency measures…”>

Seated personnel erupted in anger all at once.

“Regret? That’s absurd! What right do you have!”

“Who’s the one who captured us!”

While I was observing the crowd’s reaction with interest, a man approached us and gave a thumbs up. It was a rescued target.

“Hey there, terrorist friends! Next time, give those bastards a real kick in the ass!”

“…”

“Wow! We got praised!”

Feeling directly supported lifted our spirits.

**

While monitoring this monotonous task, a familiar face caught my eye.

“Wait, who was that girl?”

“Hey, Sis! Oh, is that really you? Hehe.”

“It’s not me.”

It was a mischievous girl with black bobbed hair. The one we saved last time, whose name I didn’t even know. The girl approached us, clutching a document.

“Uh, what exactly does the Ariel Group do?”

“That doesn’t matter.”

As soon as my response ended, the girl glanced around awkwardly and chuckled. Behind her stood adults looking completely different in age and appearance, all wearing awkward expressions.

“Oh! Is that so? Then… do you conduct experiments? Is that why you fight the foundation?”

“Who are those people behind you?”

“Oh haha… Those people? Yeah! They’re my brother and sisters. Not real family but… Oh! Like bonded siblings? Work colleagues! Something like that! Hehe!”

“No one can leave until their identity is verified. It’s for your safety.”

“Aww… don’t do that! Does the Ariel Group also research things? You might end up working here, right?”

I felt suspicious as the girl kept throwing strange questions at us, so I picked up the paperwork. Now that I think about it, I don’t even know her name.

“Eli?”

“Ah! That’s right! I’m Eli! Eli Drek… Eli Drake! That’s my name. How cute is that?”

As she filled out the forms, she kept glancing around, looking stealthy. Especially when words related to laboratory or research came up, her nape showed signs of tension.

She was unsuccessful with us, so she relentlessly asked other staff as well. While she seemed to be cheerfully trying something, ultimately, all her words boiled down to the question of what the Ariel Group is.

The news was busy blaring about our nighttime guise. However, it was problematic that instead of our anonymous network broadcasts or promotions, only our misdeeds were being announced to the world.

<Due to the recent sabotage by the Ariel Group, roads and buildings have been damaged… and countless citizens are trembling in fear…>

People watching seemed to find it absurd, chiming in with remarks towards us.

“Hey, don’t worry about that! Those reporters are like that, right?”

Then the screen suddenly changed, and the place we had attacked yesterday came on.

<Meanwhile, the Rumyx Foundation warned the city authorities that the Ariel Group has liberated dangerous terrorists previously contained in their isolation facilities…>

In an instant, Eli’s hands began to tremble.

She exchanged strange glances with her “colleagues” behind her.

<The spokesperson warned at a morning press conference…>

“Hey… Sis! Has Ariel Group been fighting the foundation for a while? What about the foundation’s researchers?”

<“Ariel Group, we also warn you. If you truly stand for justice as you claim, why have you liberated the dangerous individuals previously detained by the foundation? What kind of schemes are you plotting?>

“Oh dear… can I change the channel? Let’s not watch that, let’s catch something fun…”

Just as one person was about to turn off the television, a familiar face appeared on the screen.

<Meanwhile, among the individuals listed by the foundation, are the main culprits of the Corbus infection outbreak decades ago, the researchers from Cellexis Nanolab…>

All eyes suddenly zeroed in on one point. They looked exactly the same.

The staff who had just been kindly explaining to the girl froze upon seeing the face on the screen.

I grabbed the shoulder of the girl, whose expression gave away her shock.

<Chief Researcher Phoebe Drexler is a key suspect who led the synthesis of the artificial pathogen causing the Corbus infection…>

Today, I learned that the gazes of people could carry weight.

At a critical moment, urgent reports flooded my ears.

Irene’s sharp voice struck my eardrums.

– Violet! Foundation bastards are liars, but this one’s real!

“Eli.”

“Eh heh… uh, Sis? No, another Ariel Sis. What’s up?”

“Are you Eli?”

She forced a playful expression, awkwardly arching her lip corners.

But it was meaningless. Poorly, the group behind her had already been curled up, heads clutched as if the world had ended.

Eli, or rather the girl named Phoebe, forced a composed smile.

“Eh~ It’s definitely me, Eli! Is it because of that? I’m just a high school student! What terrorist would I be…”

– It’s true! Just confirmed by Helios!

We tightened our grips on our weapons.

“Hey, Sis… why? What’s going on! Huh? It’s not true!”

“Argument’s pointless!”

-BAM!

“AAAH!”

We unleashed a storm of punches against the terrorists. Who knew there was a real danger among them.

“Terrosits are not to be forgiven!”

“KYAAH! That hurts! It’s painful! AAAAAH!”

I heard someone mumbling, but I decided to ignore it.

“…Weren’t those people also terrorists?”

“Shush!”