Chapter 180

Emma was going to participate in the Krot Competition. “Yeah,” she nodded, making no attempt to hide it. Even though she already knew Dummy's cause of death, participating was part of her and Liam's plan.

One student said, “Miss Wilson, it’s great you can participate. You’ll definitely win an award.”

“Hey, stop talking! The teacher’s back!”

Maya abruptly returned, her expression serious. The atmosphere shifted immediately. Her tone was worried. “Someone from the Ministry of Education said an important secret chip is missing from the school archives; they suspect theft. If anyone has seen it, report it immediately. This is serious; those involved could face life imprisonment.”

The classroom fell silent at the mention of life imprisonment. Everyone exchanged frightened glances.

“What’s going on? Aren’t the school archives off-limits?”

“I didn’t even know they existed! Where are they?”

“It couldn’t have been a student, could it? What use would a chip be to them?”

During the discussion, Emma subconsciously frowned. She recalled Faith's unexpectedly friendly offer of a gift that morning; it had seemed strange then. Now, the gift seemed highly suspicious. She needed to be cautious.

That afternoon, Emma asked to meet Faith. “What was that thing you wanted to give me this morning? Show me,” Emma demanded.

Faith was shocked, unprepared for Emma’s suspicion. Fortunately, she’d already replaced the item. Innocently, she said, “This brooch I made… I wanted to give it to you.”

Emma examined the brooch. She couldn't be certain if it was the original gift, but it seemed normal; no chip was inside. She glanced at it and handed it back. “It’s ugly.” She left without accepting it.

Emma disliked Faith; she couldn't explain why, but felt the girl was hypocritical, so showed no kindness. Faith felt humiliated, standing stiffly, her face gloomy. Anger and shame fueled her revenge. She pushed forward her plan that afternoon; Simon was aware of her actions.

In his study, Derek asked Simon, “Mr. Hall, Faith acted early. Should we stop her?” She was supposed to act in a few days, but Emma's rejection had enraged and destabilized her. Simon had anticipated impulsiveness, but not this easily provoked reaction.

“Hmph, another useless fool,” Simon sneered, though prepared. “Edit this video and send it to Charon Military School’s management.”

Derek understood Simon’s plan: waiting for the right moment. He guessed Emma would be in serious trouble. “Alright, Mr. Hall. I’ll do it now.”

At Charon Military School, Emma, having surrendered her phone for training, was unaware of the unfolding events. After Simon sent the video, the school acted swiftly. Liam soon learned of the matter.

When Emma was summoned to the office, she saw police and Liam. Sensing something, she observed from outside, noticing the handcuffs. She understood the gravity of the situation and needed to be careful.

Taking a deep breath, she entered calmly. Maya said anxiously, “Emma, we know you wouldn’t harm anyone, but this video is unfavorable.”

Emma looked at the computer screen. The video showed her sneaking into the archives that night—a camera she’d missed. She'd been looking for information on Justine and hadn't touched anything else. Now, she was the prime suspect.

Calmly, her chin twitching slightly, she said, “I can prove I didn’t take anything.”

Liam’s eyes lit up. “Emma, evidence or a witness would be great.”

“Yes,” she nodded. “Another person was there who can testify: Mr. Rivera.”

The police asked, “Who?”

“Mr. Rivera.”

Richard Rivera. Everyone knew him—a hero of integrity, Emma’s uncle. While family testimony isn’t always reliable, the school reviewed the footage and saw Richard there. His involvement complicated matters. The police, initially intending to arrest Emma, were now out of their jurisdiction; higher authorities were needed.

As they discussed arresting Emma, Jerome Zahn, the school's founder, said, “Everyone, calm down. I vouch for Richard. He’s my student; he wouldn’t betray the country. With him there, Emma wouldn’t either!”

Jerome was highly respected. The police gave Emma time. The lead officer told Liam, “Mr. Hall, higher-ups are watching. Find the chip within 48 hours. Otherwise, things will become far more complicated.”

It was a serious matter; beyond Liam or Richard’s control. Even if Emma was innocent, the outcome was uncertain; a misstep could mean life imprisonment.

As the crowd dispersed, a heavy atmosphere remained. Liam, composed and dignified, said, “Levi, find the chip within 48 hours.”