Reborn as an Extra Chapter 717: The Vacation Begins! Part-1.

A convoy of vehicles brought the group to a colossal, circular structure, gleaming silver-white at the very heart of Island Felina.

Riku took the lead, explaining their destination to everyone.

"This edifice is our nation's primary Awakener's Association Headquarters; we affectionately call it the Silver Colosseum!"

"The association's staff and its affiliated members conduct their daily operations from the subterranean levels of this building..."

"The structure visible above ground is a grand colosseum, frequently utilized for hosting local tournaments and contests these days..."

Upon hearing this, Link interjected with palpable excitement, his eyes alight.

"May I compete as well? I'm eager to test my skills against the diverse warriors of the beastfolk races!"

Riku responded with a touch of awkwardness to Link's query.

"Uh... the tournaments held here are for lower-ranked warriors. If S-rank combatants were to engage within these walls, the place would likely be reduced to rubble after merely a few exchanges..."

"Furthermore, I've heard ample accounts of your prowess, Link Rex... this colosseum is simply too fragile for your might..."

These words prompted Link to sigh, a flicker of disappointment crossing his features.

Noticing his subdued mood, Rio placed a hand on his companion's shoulder, his voice retaining its characteristic lack of emotion.

"If you were craving a good thrashing, you should have just said so. I could have delivered a proper beating before we came here..."

Link rolled his eyes at Rio's comment.

"I wouldn't go down that easily... but you're right; I've been spending too much time with Riya lately and neglected my sparring sessions..."

Riku, unconcerned by the back-and-forth between the two youths, guided the group into the immense colosseum.

As they traversed the Colosseum's corridors, Rio and the others caught glimpses of the vast arena floor below, where numerous low-ranking individuals engaged in sparring and skill practice.

The majority hailed from the feline tribe, yet a scattering of individuals from other beastfolk tribes were also present.

Despite potential inter-tribal disagreements concerning crucial matters like resource distribution and economic development, members of various beastfolk tribes were permitted to travel freely between the islands of the Beast Archipelago with minimal restrictions.

Consequently, while the Feline tribe forms the predominant population of Island Felina, other beastfolk reside here as well, a situation mirrored on other islands.

"The meeting is scheduled for a week from now, leaving ample time before it commences, so I have already secured accommodations for your rest and recuperation..."

Following Riku, absorbing his words, the group boarded a large elevator that transported them directly to the staff dormitories.

The lower levels of the building primarily comprised staff quarters. The floor Riku led them to had been specifically cleared in advance to ensure Rio and his companions could settle in with utmost comfort.

"Given the highly classified nature of this meeting, we unfortunately cannot arrange stays in opulent hotels, as doing so would heighten the risk of information leakage..."

"Initially, our expectation was for Sir Ashtel's presence alone. However, with all of you accompanying him, we must adhere to stringent security protocols..."

Originally, only Ashtel was anticipated to attend the assembly.

Had Ashtel come solo, he would have arrived in the beast archipelago precisely on the day of the meeting.

He would have then departed for home the very same day once the discussions concluded, rendering any need for lodging or hotel bookings entirely moot.

Most SS-rank individuals slated to participate in the meeting had also received instructions to follow this same protocol: arrive on the designated date and depart immediately thereafter.

The primary impetus for Ashtel's early arrival stemmed from Link and the others' desire for a vacation.

"When Sir Ashtel informed us of your collective presence alongside him, we resolved to make suitable arrangements. You are welcome to reside in these dormitories until the meeting's conclusion..."

"We have procured local attire and various accessories to aid in your disguise, enabling you to better blend in with the local populace..."

Having spoken, Riku directed a glance toward Miki. As if sensing his cue, she produced several keys from her spatial ring and presented one to each individual.

Each keychain bore an engraved dorm room number, ensuring easy identification for its rightful occupant.

"Your first priority is to change into the provided attire and complete your disguises. Once finished, Miki will escort you on a tour of the local attractions..."

"Sir Ashtel and I have pressing matters to attend to, so we will take our leave here. Enjoy your time, young ones..."

Riku concluded by patting his daughter on the head.

"You have been training continuously for a long while; take this opportunity to rest. Maintaining a proper work-life balance is equally important..."

With those words, Riku made a gesture, opening a portal for teleportation. He then turned to Ashtel and inquired,

"Shall we depart?"

Ashtel gave a nod and followed Riku into the portal. However, before fully exiting, he waved goodbye to the group of children and announced,

"Enjoy your well-deserved vacation. I am heading to work now; I will return in a week to pick you all up."

With that, Ashtel and Riku embarked on their journey, leaving Rio and the others to their own devices.

"Phew~ Finally, I can relax a little..."

Once Ashtel and Riku had departed, Miki exhaled a breath of relief.

"When Father is present, I always feel so tense and constrained. Now that he’s gone to work, I can also unwind a bit."

It wasn't that Miki disliked her father; rather, she held him in such high regard that she endeavored to perform better in his presence, a situation that often proved stressful.

"I’ve personally prepared outfits for all of you; I am quite certain you will adore them! Lia, Riya, come with me. I have an entire room filled with clothes for you both; choose whichever you like best!"

The girls, thrilled about the prospect of new clothes, completely overlooked Link and Rio, excitedly rushing off.

Rio and Link could only exchange awkward glances for a moment before retreating to their respective rooms to change.