The two soldiers guarding the portal entrance continued keeping their hands directed towards the student. Even though he had already stated his own identity as Pio Blank, they were soldiers and not the school's employees.
Backup was called. A few moments later, Hayley, alongside three additional soldiers by her side, entered the room.
Pio's hands were still remained up above his head, they were visibly shaking. This was not the welcome he had expected. After being missing for a month or so, he thought his return would be welcomed, perhaps he would be treated like a king for a few days, but reality hit him hard and showed him it wasn't the case at all.
"Will you guys drop it already? Can't you see that you're scaring him?" Hayley spoke. She knew that on the other side of the portal, they would have strict protocols before sending someone over back to the base.
