Chapter 296 - Award Ceremony
"Sigh…I am too tired…."
Inside one of the buses, Ethan mumbled as he looked at the interior. After all the things that had happened in the Phantom's Land, he was a lot more tired than he initially expected himself to be.
For some reason, he felt like his mind was under immense pressure even though he wasn't able to recall what had transpired.
"Same."
At that moment, a voice came from his side. It was the bob-cut white-haired girl looking at Ethan with a tired smile. Her usual and cheery demeanor was nowhere to be found, and she was just looking at everything with a tired face.
"Man….I just want to relax in my room for the whole weekend. They for sure must empty our next following days of school, or else I am skipping."
Ethan nodded in agreement, "I was thinking the same. A weekend of pure relaxation sounds like the perfect recovery plan."
He himself wanted to play games for the first time in a while, as well as wanted to see a certain 'someone'….
However, Lilia, sitting across from them, chimed in with a dissenting opinion. "I disagree. Knowing the academy, they're more likely to push us forward rather than let us rest. They love keeping us on our toes."
Ethan and Julia exchanged glances, realizing the truth in Lilia's words.
'She is right…Sigh….'
The academy had a knack for maintaining a relentless pace, ensuring that the students were always challenged and prepared for any situation. This was especially the case with the new semester since the students were said to be pushed to their limits.
"You might be onto something, Lilia," Ethan admitted a hint of resignation in his voice.
Lilia smirked as if enjoying being the voice of reality. "Heh….It's not called the best academy for anything. Get ready for another whirlwind week, my little lazy peaches."
"Peaches?" Ethan raised his eyebrows as he was unable to understand what she meant.
"You didn't get it?" Lilia scoffed as he looked into her smartwatch. "You should keep tabs on recent trends more, or else girls will mark you as boring."
Lilia decided to enlighten Ethan by showing him a small picture on her smartwatch, revealing a seemingly popular TV show. Ethan, taking it seriously, asked, "Really?"
At that moment, Julia couldn't resist the opportunity to tease him, a mischievous glint in her eyes. "Of course not, my dear innocent Ethan. But hey, peaches are trending now. Maybe you should consider a peachy makeover."
Ethan, slightly perplexed, raised an eyebrow while turning her head to Julia. "A peachy makeover? Is that even a thing?"
Julia chuckled, enjoying Ethan's confusion. "Maybe it is, maybe it isn't. You'll never know until you try. Imagine the talk of the academy – Ethan, the Peach Prince!"
Ethan shook his head, a small smile forming. "I'll pass on the Peach Prince title, thank you very much. I'll stick to being the guy who survives the academy's whirlwind weeks."
"Can you survive my whirlwind though?" Yet, Julia raised her arms, clenching her biceps. Following that, seemingly, those slender arms turned to sculptured muscles, and Ethan immediately flinched.
"No, thanks. I would rather drown in the whirlwinds of the academy." Ethan answered.
'There is just no way I can take this mad woman head-on now.'
Though his inward thoughts didn't match his polite words.
"You just thought something rude, didn't you?"
"Cough…." Ethan coughed, seeing Julia's squinted eyes. "Of course not." And tried to lie.
'A Woman's intuition is crazy….'
He couldn't help but feel a little more fearful in Julia's presence, as if he felt like his mind was being red.
"Humph.
Just as the two were talking, Lilia turned her attention to the side, only to see Lucas looking out of the window, seemingly in his thoughts.
'Just what is the deal with this guy.'
Being a sharpshooter and a very good archer, she immediately noticed how different Lucas' demeanor was. Yet, she decided not to ask anything, as she knew if there was something Lucas would surely tell her and others.
This was what 'friendship' meant, after all.
********
Inside one of the highest buildings in the vicinity, a meeting was ongoing between some high-ranking officials. The room was dimly lit, and the atmosphere was tense. At the head of the long table, a figure sat in a high-backed chair, their features concealed by shadows and a veil. The other officials, similarly shrouded in veils, projected dark holograms to mask their identities.
The person at the head of the table leaned forward, their voice echoing through the room, "Report. What have you discovered?"
One of the black figures, their holographic image displaying only a silhouette, spoke up, "Our agents have thoroughly investigated the incident in the Phantom's Land involving the three academy students. According to our findings, their testimony aligns with the events that transpired."
The veiled figure at the head of the table nodded, "Continue. Elaborate on the details. Were there any discrepancies or additional information not provided by the students?"
The black figure continued, "The investigation supports the claim that a magical anomaly occurred within the Phantom's Land, and the leader of the three students, Irina Emberheart, successfully dealt with our kin. His existence was verified through traces of fire magic and the burnt remains found in the cavern."
The veiled leader remained composed, "And the government's involvement?"
Another figure, whose hologram showed a different symbol, responded, "As per your request, the government has chosen to close the investigation into the Phantom's Land incident. We made sure that Minister Veridian issued a directive to cease any further inquiries."
The leader at the head of the table nodded in satisfaction, "Good. This information should be sufficient to control the narrative."
However, at that moment, one of the shadows interrupted, "Forgive my intrusion, but I have been suspecting something."
"How dare you interrupt-"
Just as one of the shadows was about to scold him, the headman raised his hand, calming it down.
The headman turned towards the interrupting figure, his tone turning serious, "The Flare. Speak, and choose your words carefully."
The shadow, known by the alias 'The Flare,' hesitated for a moment before revealing, "As per your request, my team also investigated the scene. But, rather than looking for the demon's remnants, we analyzed the scale of the spell used."
The headman leaned back, intrigued, "What are you getting at, Flare?"
The Flare took a deep breath before continuing, "According to our findings, the mana levels of the spell used at the Phantom's Land indicated a strength equivalent to tier-6 or tier-7 magic in modern classifications."
The room fell into a heavy silence as everyone processed the implications of The Flare's revelation. The headman's expression turned contemplative as he absorbed this new piece of information.
"What are you suggesting?" the headman asked.
The Flare met the headman's gaze, "I'm not implying that the student's accounts are wrong. However, it seems improbable that a student, even one as capable as Irina Emberheart, could withstand such powerful magic, let alone a student named Sylvie. It raises questions about the authenticity of the reported events."
One of the shadows couldn't contain their hostility and exclaimed, "Are you implying that our findings were inaccurate? We investigated the Phantom's Land thoroughly afterward!"
The Flare remained composed, "I am not implying that. Initially, we had also assumed the tier of the spell lower, around 3-4, thanks to its strength. However, we noticed that we had overlooked one thing."
The room fell into a contemplative silence as everyone absorbed this revelation. The opposing shadow, initially hostile, now remained silent, realizing the oversight in their analysis.
The headman nodded, acknowledging The Flare's explanation. "Continue."
The Flare took a breath before elaborating, "Given its ancient nature, the tier analysis becomes complex. It's not a direct comparison to modern classifications. We need to reassess the magical landscape of the Phantom's Land and consider the possibility that ancient magic, not conforming to our current understanding, played a role."
The opposing shadow remained silent, digesting the new information.
The headman, with a thoughtful expression, raised two crucial questions. "Firstly, how could a normal healer with a low rank withstand such a potent spell? And secondly, how did Irina Emberheart manage to defeat such a strong demon, supposedly one of 'his' descendants?"
The leader contemplated for a moment before making a decisive decision. "We need to investigate or possibly capture both Irina Emberheart and Sylvie Gracewind further. I want a thorough background check on their abilities, affiliations, and any potential connections. Additionally, raise a target bounty for both of them.
We need to know more about these students and the events within the Phantom's Land."
His voice echoed in the room as he made his final decision.
"What about Astron Natusalune? He also played a crucial role in this event."
The headman's contemplative gaze shifted to the holographic image of the young student with slightly pale skin and a downcast expression, displayed with his information beneath it.
'I'm tempted to consider him merely a lucky Awakened who happened to be on the same team as Irina Emberheart. However, simplicity can sometimes be deceptive. I learned it the wrong way, and I shall not underestimate the potential complexities of this situation. I feel like something is amiss for some reason.'
After a moment of silent scrutiny, he spoke, "Astron Natusalune. While he may seem like a mere bystander in this event, we cannot afford to dismiss any potential connections or influences he might have had. I want a separate investigation team to delve into his background, affiliations, and any unusual occurrences surrounding him."
The veiled figures remained silent, absorbing the decision. The headman concluded, "Proceed with the investigations. Report back with any significant findings. We need to understand the full extent of the events within the Phantom's Land. This matter is a sign from our lord. His descent is near."
With that, the holographic communication ended, and the veiled figures dispersed, each attending to their assigned tasks.
The headman, however, continued to gaze at the holographic images as his mouth curled up.
"Thank you for showing me another future threat, My Lord. I shall do my best to end them here and now."
With those words, he closed his eyes as the scene of a man with his arms hung on a cross appeared.
******
"She has once again proven herself to be a beacon of courage and heroism. Irina Emberheart, with her indomitable willpower, faced a unique and formidable monster that emerged during the collapse of the Phantom's Land. This monstrous entity, unlike anything we had encountered before, threatened the lives of our fellow students.
But Irina, guided by her noble Emberheart lineage, fearlessly stood against the unknown threat."
The commentator's voice resonated through the auditorium as the crowd's applause continued.
Irina's expression remained composed, at least she tried to, though her amber eyes betrayed a subtle mix of 'annoyance' and 'arrogance.' Deep down, she knew the accolades were not entirely genuine.
"It was her quick thinking, honed skills, and unwavering commitment that allowed her to single-handedly confront this aberrant creature, ensuring the safety of her peers. Irina's actions exemplify the core values of our academy – bravery, selflessness, and the ability to face the unknown head-on."
As the commentator praised her, Irina couldn't shake off the feeling of being a mere pawn in a performance. Her internal disdain was palpable.
–CLAP!
'Tch. I feel like a clown.'
Despite the outward acknowledgment, Irina's mind echoed with dissatisfaction. The commentator continued, emphasizing the unique strength that resonated from her Emberheart lineage.
"It is thanks to her unique and strong willpower, a testament to the enduring legacy of the Emberheart noble family, that she was able to overcome such a perilous situation. The noble blood that runs through her veins undoubtedly played a pivotal role in her triumph over adversity."
The applause intensified, but Irina's internal monologue persisted.
'Strong willpower, my foot. They have no idea who even did it.'
At that moment, she slightly turned her head and saw the reason for her being in this place: he was just looking around with his usual emotionless eyes.
But, at that moment, she couldn't help but notice another woman in front of the crowd.
'Huh?'
It was someone she would have never expected.
Chapter 297 - Award Ceremony (2)
For Irina, from the moment she was born, she had never had a good relationship with her parents.
Her mother, who held the strongest position in the family as the matriarch, had just recently subdued her sisters and brothers when she was born. It was a very long successor fight, according to the words of her nannies.
Therefore, when she was born, her mother was a lot busier than compared to before. Considering the fact that she needed to stabilize the family and the finances, it made sense, but as a child, she was deprived of her mother's love.
Yet, there was someone there. A person who could be called a parent to her. A woman who gave her the care that she needed, a woman who was beside her when she was a child and sought parental love.
She had filled the emptiness that came from the lack of parental interest, and naturally, the young Irina couldn't help but somehow connect her figure with her mother.
It was like she was her second mother.
Yet, the reality crumbled really fast. As she passed the age of the certain threshold, suddenly, that person left her side.
Then, Irina realized. Even from the beginning, she had never been a parental figure for her. The person she thought of as a second mother was, in fact, just an attendant who was sent by her mother.
That was all she was for her. And, naturally, the young Irina didn't take it well. Her mother might have wanted to teach her the harshness of life, and she was successful at it. Maybe the biggest reason for her acting like an arrogant noblegirl was this.
Yet, now, that said person stood there, facing her in the back of the crowd.
'Esme.'
The memories flashed in front of her eyes as her face hardened.
'Why is she here?'
She asked herself as she saw one of her childhood figures. Yet, just as she was about to drown in her thoughts, she felt a touch on the right side of her waist. A pair of fingers grabbed her from there, making her squirm a little.
–FLINCH!
'Hick!'
She exclaimed inwardly, barely suppressing the moan that was about to escape from her mouth. Turning her attention to the source of the touch, her eyes met with a pair of purple ones.
[Calm down.]
As his lips moved silently, she read what he said and realized the face she was making in front of a crowd.
'That is right. I mustn't show any weakness.'
Whatever the reason that woman was here, she could care less. With that thought, she once again steadied herself, looking directly at the crowd with her usual arrogant expression.
'How did he realize that quickly?'
Yet, she couldn't help but ponder inwardly. That guy's perception was surely one of the most dangerous aspects of him, to the point it was scary.
As she tried to shake off her feelings, the commentator's voice once again filled the air.
"And now, let us acknowledge two more outstanding students who have demonstrated remarkable bravery. Astron Natusalune and Sylvie Gracewind, please step forward!"
His introduction for them was blatantly less, as the two were fairly less known compared to Irina, and naturally, the commenter was aware of that as well.
'Just as he said.'
Irina observed the crowd's reaction and noticed nobody was even paying attention to Sylvie and him aside from some scouts. Most of the eyes were on her.
The commentator continued with the ceremony, "And now, to present the reward to our extraordinary students, let us welcome a distinguished guest from the association, a seasoned Hunter who has been a guiding light in our community."
The crowd hushed, and a distinguished figure stepped forward, his posture radiating authority. As he approached, Irina's attention sharpened. The man, known for his formidable reputation, was none other than Captain Melwin "Abyssal Tide" Howell.
Irina maintained her composed exterior, but an unsettling feeling gnawed at her as Captain Howell reached her side. His smile, though seemingly pleasant, sent shivers down her spine.
"As we honor Irina Emberheart for her outstanding bravery, we believe the future is in good hands with individuals like her," Captain Howell declared, his voice carrying an undertone that Irina couldn't quite decipher.
–FLINCH!
As he handed her the commendation and reward, his fingers brushed against hers, sending a chill through her.
'This…..'
The smile on his face remained, but Irina couldn't shake off the creeping sensation that there was more behind it than mere courtesy.
'What is this feeling?'
"Congratulations, Irina Emberheart. Your actions have showcased remarkable potential. The association is proud to have individuals of your caliber," he continued, his eyes holding an intensity that made Irina uncomfortable.
"Thank you, Captain Howell," Irina responded politely, though her mind raced with an unspoken unease.
As if insects were crawling on her skin, she wanted to scratch it so badly. The urge to puke was raised, and she averted her gaze to the side.
There, she noticed him glaring at the Hunter. His purple eyes were wide open. It was only for a second, a split second that would go unnoticed if she hadn't accidentally seen it.
'What?'
As Captain Howell retreated, Irina's gaze lingered on him. The commentator's words and the ceremony's spotlight couldn't mask the subtle feeling of discomfort that had settled within her.
'Why was he looking at him like that? Just what was it?'
She asked herself, raising those questions. His face was now returned to its normal demeanor, the same expressionless face, yet Irina couldn't help but constantly compare his calm face with the one she had just seen before.
But, before she could ponder about it any longer, the commenter's voice echoed once again.
"And with that, we conclude this ceremony of bravery and excellence. Let us applaud once again for the remarkable students who have showcased exceptional courage. Thank you all for joining us today."
–CLAP!
The applause swelled, and the commentator gestured for the students to leave the stage. Irina, alongside Astron and Sylvie, made her way down, still feeling the remnants of discomfort from the encounter with Captain Howell.
As they left the stage, the applause followed them, and the commentator's voice faded into the background.
*****
In the backstage area, the atmosphere was buzzing with a mix of excitement and relief. Irina, Astron, and Sylvie navigated through the crowd, the applause still echoing in their ears. Irina's mind, however, was preoccupied with the unsettling encounter with Captain Howell, as well as the person she had just seen.
Just as she was about to continue walking, she saw Esme standing at a distance, her gaze fixed on Irina. The memories of their past encounters and the revelation that Esme was nothing more than an attendant sent by her mother flooded Irina's mind.
Irina's steps faltered as she noticed Esme standing amidst the bustling backstage area. Her gaze lingered on Astron, who had also cast a knowing glance in Esme's direction. Sylvie, on the other hand, seemed a bit overwhelmed by the recent ceremony, her demeanor shy and reserved.
Sparing a brief nod to Astron, Irina gestured towards Sylvie. "You two can head back. I need a moment alone."
Understanding Irina's unspoken request, Astron nodded and guided Sylvie away from the backstage chaos. As they left, Irina felt a mixture of gratitude and apprehension. She took a deep breath, mentally preparing herself for the impending conversation with Esme.
Turning her attention back to Esme, Irina walked towards her, her expression guarded.
"Esme," Irina called out stiffly, her tone laced with a mixture of surprise and coldness. "What are you doing here?"
Esme remained silent for a moment, her eyes locked with Irina's. The air between them seemed charged with unspoken tension. Irina couldn't help but feel a knot forming in her stomach, a blend of resentment and confusion.
"Why are you here?" Irina repeated, her voice more assertive this time. The echoes of the applause served as an eerie backdrop to their confrontation.
Esme finally broke her silence, her voice calm but carrying an undertone of intensity. "Irina, it's been a long time."
Irina narrowed her eyes, her composure momentarily faltering. "Cut the pleasantries. Why are you here?"
Esme's gaze softened for a moment before returning to its steely resolve. "Irina, I wanted to see you. To see how much you've grown."
Irina scoffed, a bitter smile playing on her lips. "Grown? Is that what you call it? Leaving me when I needed someone the most? Bullshit." She spat her tongue venomously. "Or rather, this is what that woman calls 'growth,' right?"
Esme's eyes narrowed slightly, her composure unwavering despite Irina's outburst. She locked eyes with Irina, a silent exchange of emotions passing between them.
"The Matriarch was pleased with your recent achievements, Young Miss," Esme said, her voice carrying a subtle weight. "She's proud of you as an Emberheart."
'Heh….Now, you are calling me Young Miss. Are you implying that you are no different than any other servant of our house? What you did wasn't out of your own feelings but because you were ordered to. Yeah, it was my fault to expect anything different.'
Irina scoffed again, a bitter laugh escaping her lips. "Proud, you say? Is that what this is about? Her pride in the family name? I don't need her empty praises."
'It wasn't even me who have done it.'
The disgust in her chest raised more and more, yet she couldn't say anything to match his wish.
Esme's gaze remained stern and devoid of any warmth as she responded to Irina's bitter laughter. "The Matriarch is watching you, Young Miss, and she's genuinely looking forward to your potential. It's not just empty praises. She believes in what you can achieve for the Emberheart legacy."
Irina met Esme's gaze, a mixture of skepticism and resentment in her eyes. "Believes, you say? More like she's shaping me into her ideal puppet. But go ahead, tell me more about the Matriarch's expectations."
Esme sighed, acknowledging the frustration in Irina's tone. "The Matriarch has high hopes for you. She sees a future where you lead the Emberheart name with strength and honor. Your recent accomplishments are just the beginning."
Irina tilted her head, a sarcastic smile playing on her lips. "Accomplishments, or the tasks she set for me? There's a difference, Esme."
Ignoring Irina's cynicism, Esme reached into a small box that materialized from her spatial bracelet. "The Matriarch wanted me to give you this," she said, handing the box to Irina. "It's a symbol of her appreciation for your efforts."
Irina eyed the box suspiciously, her fingers hesitating before taking it, yet she didn't open it.
Esme continued, "She knows you have the strength to overcome any challenges, Young Miss. This is a reminder of the faith she places in you."
Without another word, Esme turned to leave, her departure silent and leaving behind an air of unresolved tension, but just as she was about to finish leaving, she stopped and turned to take one last look into Irina.
"Young miss, be mindful of whom you associate yourself with," Esme cautioned. "Not everyone deserves to be in the same space as an Emberheart. Remember, the legacy you carry is not to be tainted by those with severed roots and no discernible future."
Irina's eyes narrowed at the thinly veiled warning, her grip tightening on the unopened box as she knew whom Esme was referring to.
'A person with severed roots and no discernible future knows me more than my own mother.'
The words were stuck in her heart, as she watched Esme leaving.
Chapter 298 - Award Ceremony (3)
"Sigh….."
A heavy sigh occurred in the middle of the room.
The room exuded opulence, adorned with countless expensive ornaments that showcased the Emberheart family's wealth and status.
Intricately carved figurines, glistening gemstones, and rare magical artifacts adorned every surface.
The most recent technological devices seamlessly blended with antique furnishings, creating a unique juxtaposition of modernity and tradition.
This was her own way of designing her room, after all.
In the midst of this lavish setting, Irina reclined lazily on her bed. The crimson gown she wore cascaded around her like a cascade of flames, contrasting with the subdued hues of the room.
Her fiery hair spilled over the pillows as she released a heavy sigh, the sound echoing with a blend of weariness and frustration.
Her gaze lingered on the unopened box and the plaque resting in front of her. The box, a symbol of appreciation from the Matriarch, her mother, held the weight of familial expectations.
The plaque, a testament to her recent 'bravery,' served as a reminder of the path she was expected to tread.
"Sigh..." Irina sighed again, the sound resonating in the room filled with luxury. "If I knew that woman was going to contact me like this, I would never accept his request."
She couldn't help but mumble a little, thinking that the deal she made no longer benefited her. Of course, gaining the favor of that guy wasn't wrong, yet now these feelings that her decision resulted in no longer made the deal worthwhile, in her opinion.
'I don't even want to look into this plaque again.'
It was a useless gift. Of course, she knew that having such types of awards would naturally bring one higher in the social ladder of nobles and Awakeners, yet at the same time, she hated to be like those superficial bastards.
'Also, why did she give this to me?'
On paper, a mother giving a gift to her child seemed normal in a family, yet Irina knew her mother had never been a normal one, to begin with. Whatever she did in the past had always served a purpose, and her steps were calculated.
Therefore, she couldn't help but think that this gift, for some reason, also served a purpose aside from being a simple gift.
Irina's hand reached for the unopened box, her fingers delicately tracing its intricate design.
As she examined the box, Irina couldn't shake the feeling that there was more to this seemingly innocuous gift than met the eye. The room, with its wealth and luxury, held secrets, and she was determined to uncover them.
'I wonder if I can do it too?'
In an attempt to imitate 'that guy,' whose perceptiveness often left her in awe, Irina focused her attention on the box.
'Of course, if he can do it, why can't I?'
She concentrated, searching for any subtle clues or anomalies. Her trained eyes scanned for mana fluctuations, a skill she had honed through years of magical study.
'It looks like a normal box.'
At first, she couldn't find anything, but she also didn't want to directly utilize her [Trait] as her pride didn't allow it.
She looked into it, again and again, trying to somehow naturally feel it.
'Hmm?'
Then, there it was – a faint shimmer, a small dance of mana around the box. It wasn't immediately apparent, but 'that guy's' influence had taught her to look beyond the surface. The box, she realized, was working as a seal of sorts.
'As expected, the thing inside is an artifact.'
A challenge presented itself, one that ignited the spark of curiosity within her. With a subtle shift in her posture, Irina delved deeper into the study of the mana surrounding the box. She observed its patterns, its nature, and the intricate dance it performed, trying to solve the equations she had created in her head.
She also didn't notice it, but at some point, the box started floating in the air rather than her hand holding it.
After a moment of concentration, she deciphered the mana psions surrounding the box. It wasn't just any mana; it was dark mana – a type of Psions that was associated with both the cosmos as well as the evil cults.
Though one may think that the dark mana was used only by evil people, this was inherently wrong. No power in this world was pure as at the start; it was up to the user how to wield it.
'Hmm….If the seal is using dark-attribute psions, that means the inside should have its countering attributes.'
Most of the time, to use seals with minimal energy, the seals would be made according to the type of the desired artifact to be sealed.
'But, can I eliminate it further than that?'
As she thought of trying to find more clues to narrow down the exact attribute, she started studying it once again immediately.
The box floated in the air, caught in an invisible dance of magical examination. Her efforts to imitate 'that guy' persisted, and her mind focused on unraveling the mysteries concealed within.
However, as time passed, she found herself unable to narrow down the exact attribute or nature of the seal. The equations in her mind remained unsolved, and the frustration built up.
'Maybe this is beyond me.'
With a sigh, Irina conceded defeat, letting the box return to her hand. Her gaze lingered on the unopened gift, a mix of curiosity and acceptance in her eyes.
'Enough of this. Let's see what's inside.'
Carefully, she opened the box, revealing a small, shiny bracelet within. The color of yellow emanated a warm glow, and a shiny blue jewel adorned its center.
'Wait?'
She couldn't help but gasp in surprise after seeing what it was. Who wouldn't be?
A wave of recognition swept over Irina as she beheld the heirloom.
"Solar Radiance?"
It was one of their family's cherished artifacts, a protective bracelet that could shield the wearer three times from significant harm. However, only two uses remained, as her mother had utilized it once when she was young and a prospective prodigy of their family.
"She gave this to me?"
Her initial skepticism and desire to decipher the seal immediately was satisfied after seeing the artifact. After all, it utilized the Light Psions and some unknown power. Therefore, it made sense that it was sealed by dark psions since it countered it.
Irina's fingers traced the intricate design of the bracelet. Its significance weighed heavily on her, a tangible connection to her family's legacy. The bracelet, capable of safeguarding against attacks even from an intermediate rank-9 Hunter, held both sentimental and practical value.
"Does that mean she suspects that I could somehow be in danger?"
She asked herself. If that woman gave her this bracelet, it probably also meant something. She knew her mother didn't always talk with her directly and sometimes left her with clues for her to understand on her own.
As she walked, memories of recent events flashed in her mind. The encounter with the demon in the Phantom's Land, the unsettling feeling from Captain Howell, and the hushed instructions to keep silent about certain occurrences all resurfaced.
'Those are not likely to be normal.'
Irina's instincts, finely tuned from a lifetime of navigating the complexities of her noble lineage, kicked into high gear.
"Something isn't right," she muttered to herself. "I feel like the things happening in the Phantom's Land was not a small matter, and the demon's identity wasn't normal either."
She had thought of it countless times and even asked Astron about it, yet he chose to keep it silent, saying he didn't know anything. Of course, she didn't believe him, yet she couldn't force him to talk either.
"In any case…I should be careful…Both for me and for those close to me."
For some reason, an annoying guy's face came into her mind, yet she refused to accept it.
"Tch."
In an attempt to shift her focus, Irina decided to open her smartwatch, a device that connected her to the latest news and trends.
As the holographic interface flickered to life, she entered the school forum. She hadn't been updating herself in the forums since she was busy with assignments and remembering the basics of magic to teach someone.
While she navigated through the forum, a post caught her attention – a post that highlighted her recent recognition at the ceremony.
'What? It instantly became popular?'
Irina's image adorned the post, capturing the moment she received the award for her bravery. The praises poured in from fellow students, hailing her as the savior of the students who had fallen into a dreamy state.
The post commended Irina not only for breaking the enchantment but also for showcasing an impressive progression in her magical abilities, allowing her to unravel the complexities of the magic that had ensnared them.
The comments overflowed with admiration, acknowledging Irina's skill and resilience. Some hailed her as a beacon of hope, while others speculated about the mysteries that surrounded her. The forum buzzed with discussions, and Irina found herself at the center of attention.
Of course, there were some haters hinting at her personality and her previous deeds but recently hyped students ignored those and shut them off with their fanatical remarks.
'It had this much effect? Wow.'
She had attended many banquets and social events, but this was the first time that she saw how dangerous social media was and how detrimental it was, as the numbers of people were basically too many.
'So, this is why he didn't want to use his name. Now it makes sense.'
If such a reaction came for her, she couldn't help but think what would have happened if it was Astron who was labeled as a hero.
Most people wouldn't believe it, and there wouldn't be many fans. Even now, there are still many haters hating her.
'But….This is not that bad…'
Yet, she smiled a little, seeing her reputation turning to normal.
*******
Inside a place with red lighting illuminating the room, a lone figure stood in front of a bunch of shadows, mere silhouettes suspended from above. The crimson glow cast an eerie ambiance, highlighting the grotesque shapes that danced upon the walls.
As the enigmatic figure moved, her silhouette seemed to embrace the dance of the shadows. She glided alluredly through the dimly lit space, her every movement captivating, like a seductive choreography that only she understood.
"Haaaa~"
The room echoed with an unsettling silence, broken only by the soft whispers of fabric as the figures gently swayed above her.
Approaching the suspended forms, her slender fingers gracefully caressed their 'lifeless' skin.
"I wish you could last a little more."
The red glow reflected off her dark, long hair, casting an ethereal halo around her pale face. The curves of her body, alluring and mysterious, were revealed in fleeting moments of illumination.
Suddenly, a flash of lightning cut through the darkness as if nature itself sought to unveil the secrets concealed within the red-lit room.
–RUMBLE!
The room lit up, exposing the figure's features in stark detail. Her long, dark locks cascaded down her shoulders, framing a face that bore an otherworldly allure. Pale skin that wasn't covered even the slightest bit of fabric seemed to absorb the crimson glow, making her appear both enchanting and unnerving,
Suddenly, the figure's eyes opened wide as she looked into the lighting and storm flashing in the sky.
"Belthazor is dead."
She mumbled.
"To think my pathetic brother died just like that…." as she licked her lips, her fingers moved, slowly caressing the neck of the 'young man' whose arms were tied.
"I wonder who it is….."
CLENCH!
Following that, she grabbed the man by his neck and forcefully brought his lips closer.
Chapter 299 - Award Ceremony [Interlude] (4)
As the haunting echoes of the men whose souls had no longer belonged to themselves sounded in her head, the woman on the throne continued to indulge in the intoxicating dance of her thoughts. The crimson liquid within the glass mirrored the storm outside, its deep hue reflecting the complexity of her emotions.
Leaning back against the ominous throne, the woman's eyes, like shards of wine, gazed into the abyss of her memories. The dance of shadows, once confined to the red-lit room, now wove itself into the fabric of her contemplation. The enigma of her past unfolded like a dark novel, each chapter revealing a layer of her mysterious existence.
"It had been a while since I felt like this," she mused her voice a sultry whisper that resonated with the echoes of the shadows. Her fingers traced patterns on the surface of the wine-filled chalice, a silent acknowledgment of the power she derived from the intoxicating concoction.
With a languid swirl of her glass, she brought the crimson liquid to her lips, savoring the rich taste as though it held the essence of her own power. The room seemed to quiver with her every movement as if it, too, succumbed to the enchantment she exuded.
"I can't help it, though," she confessed, her gaze fixed on the depths of the wine. The allure of the liquid seemed to amplify the haunting whispers in her mind, a symphony of voices that spoke of ancient grudges and long-forgotten vendettas.
Her movements continued, a seamless ballet of allure, as she crossed her long, white legs. The shadows danced in homage to her, the very air bowing to the presence of the queen who held court over her own kingdom of shadows.
Leaning forward, she peered into the crimson depths of the wine, her reflection distorted by the shifting liquid. A wicked smile played upon her lips as she mumbled to herself about the demise of her foolish brother, someone she hadn't seen in a hundred years.
"Foolish Belthazor," she murmured, her words caressing the air like a forbidden incantation. "To think you met your end in such a mundane way. A hundred years of absence, and this is the fate you chose."
Her eyes, twin pools of darkness, remained fixed on her reflection, the storm outside reflecting in the depths of the red wine.
"Yet, no matter how foolish you are, you are my brother at the end. Your end should have never happened this fast."
As she uttered those words, she slowly raised her hand, fingers adorned with long, claw-like nails that gleamed in the ambient light. With a languid grace, she admired her own beauty, the power she exuded palpable in the very air around her.
'Should I check the strings of fate?'
Closing her eyes momentarily, she began to delve into the depths of her ancient powers. The room seemed to respond to her call, and shadows gathered, shrouding everything in darkness. A pregnant pause filled the air, a prelude to the unfolding mysteries that lay beneath the surface.
–FOOSH!
Suddenly, the room transformed. A dense red fog, thick and ethereal, enveloped the space, obscuring the throne, the wine, and the haunting shadows.
It was within this crimson mist that the woman could discern two silhouettes engaged in a fierce battle.
One figure soared through the air with wings outstretched, an ethereal presence illuminated by the faint glow of the moon.
The other, grounded and resolute, faced the airborne assailant with countless different weapons.
'Ho? Would you look at that? He really was awakened secretly.'
She thought as the battle unfolded in the surreal haze. The one soaring with wings was Belthazor, her foolish brother, as most of the time, her kin was represented in such a way in mysticism.
'But, who is this?'
That meant the figure on the ground was the mysterious assailant, the one responsible for his untimely demise.
Her eyes widened as the moonlight seemed to shine upon the figure suddenly!
'Moon….?'
The moon could represent many things in her visions as she used to use her ability more frequently, yet this was the first time she had seen the moonlight directly shining upon someone. Most of the time, the moonlight would just appear in the background with different colors as if to symbolize some sort of ritual.
Either it was red, silver, blue, or many others. The red moon symbolized vampires; silver blood symbolized werewolves; the blue moon symbolized witches of blue fire and many others.
However, she stood in a very different phenomenon that she had never encountered.
'Colors of the moon are constantly changing.'
It was akin to showing that something was fundamentally different from what she had expected. One's race couldn't be changed in such a fast way, and it wasn't a shapeshifter in any case.
As the surreal battle unfolded before her, the woman watched with a keen interest, her mouth curling into a twisted smile.
"Hahaha…."
The crimson mist swirled with the chaotic energy of the conflict, and her laughter, low and haunting, echoed through the obscure space.
"Interesting….What is this, I wonder?"
Finally, she had found something intriguing, something that stirred the stagnant pool of her ancient existence. The unpredictable nature of the moon's glow upon the enigmatic figure intrigued her, and she reveled in the mystery that unfolded in the midst of the crimson fog.
–SLURP!
She licked her lips as she attempted to stand from her throne and got out. However, an invisible force, not comprehensible by the ordinary senses, held her back.
"Tch…"
She clicked her tongue in frustration, realizing the seal was still too strong, and she couldn't leave her place.
The laughter that had rung with amusement now took on a darker tone as her smile widened. Her eyes glinted with a malevolent gleam, and she mumbled to herself, "If I can't get out, perhaps I can bring him here."
She raised her hand, conjuring a sphere of red color around her, and following that, she saw the face of someone in the sphere.
It was a woman, her subordinate.
"Zafira," she whispered, the name rolling off her tongue like a sultry incantation. The sphere glowed with an otherworldly light as the face of the succubus materialized within it.
*******
The night was draped in darkness, the only illumination coming from the faint glow of the moon and the distant shimmering stars.
"Maaan….This is the life…."
A man in his late thirties drove down the winding road in his sleek, expensive car.
–WROOM!
The engine's purr resonated in the quiet night, echoing through the empty spaces between the trees that lined the desolate highway.
His mood was buoyant, fueled by the recent success of his dubious endeavors. The man possessed a unique trait after awakening, [Deceit] – a mastery of persuasion that allowed him to manipulate the unsuspecting.
"Those old dogs must be dreaming about the 'imaginary free' money they would be receiving tonight."
He had recently swindled a considerable amount of money from a group of naive elderly individuals who had fallen prey to his silver tongue.
"Ahahahaahah….I love how stupid the humans are…."
With a triumphant grin, he reached for a can of beer in the cup holder, the cold metal sending a shiver down his spine.
Popping it open, he took a triumphant gulp, the fizzy liquid adding to the euphoria of his ill-gotten gains. The car's interior was dimly lit by the soft glow of the dashboard, casting a subtle gleam on his satisfied expression.
As he continued to revel in his victory, his eyes expertly scanning the surroundings for potential pleasures, he suddenly noticed a silhouette on the corner of the road.
Despite the darkness, his eyes, already expert at finding beautiful women, instantly recognized the shape of a woman with a captivating figure. When he was young, he never missed whomever he pursued.
His foot eased off the gas pedal, and the car coasted to a slower pace. Intrigued, he squinted into the night, trying to discern the details of the mysterious woman on the roadside, then saw the probably most beautiful face he had ever seen before.
A cascade of raven-black hair framed a face so flawless it seemed sculpted by the divine. The moonlight played upon her features, enhancing the allure of her captivating gaze and delicate features.
A slender figure stood there, bathed in an ethereal glow, as if she were a specter woven into the fabric of the night.
Snapping out of his stupor, the man quickly rolled down his car window and called out to the mysterious woman. "Hey! What are you doing out here on such a cold night?"
'I can't miss such an opportunity.'
The woman turned towards him, her eyes meeting his with an enigmatic gleam. "My car broke down, and I was hoping to find someone kind enough to offer assistance."
A sly grin stretched across the man's face as he heard her words. "Well, it seems fate has brought me here just in time. I can't resist the call of destiny, can you?" He chuckled, the arrogance in his voice veiled by a charming tone.
The woman's lips curled into a subtle smile. "Perhaps it has," she replied, her voice soft and melodic.
Without missing a beat, the man extended an invitation. "How about I give you a ride? I'm sure we can sort out your car troubles together."
She considered his offer for a moment, her gaze piercing through the darkness. "That would be most gracious of you," she finally said, her tone carrying a hint of 'gratitude.'
The man unlocked the car doors, and she gracefully slid into the passenger seat. As the sleek vehicle pulled back onto the road, the air inside the car seemed to hum.
The man couldn't resist the opportunity to fill the silence, and he began chatting flirtatiously with the mysterious woman beside him.
"So, what brings you out on a night like this?" he inquired, his eyes occasionally darting away from the road to appraise her beauty.
She responded with a measured tone, "Just a stroke of misfortune with my car. But fate has a funny way of bringing people together, doesn't it?"
He chuckled, taking a moment to ogle at her as they idled at the traffic lights. His eyes lingered over her figure, appreciating every curve as if they were a masterpiece. The woman's expression remained composed, and she seemed unfazed by his invasive gaze.
The man, now growing bolder, asked, "A woman like you must be afraid of men at night, right? There are so many predators out there."
Her gaze shifted towards him, and she asked, "Are you one of them?"
The question caught him off guard, but he smirked and replied, "What would you do if I were?"
Her lips curved into a mysterious smile. "This," she said, and with a flick of her fingers, two small droplets of blood flew from her fingertips, penetrating the air.
Before the man could react, the droplets struck him square in the face, the warm liquid stinging his eyes. He instinctively clutched his face, the pain and surprise evident in his muffled exclamations.
"Your insolent eyes savored my body quite a long while."
And the last voice he had heard was the cold voice filled with arrogance, as he experienced the most painful moments of his life….
"Haaaah….This is it…"
Just as the woman was reveling by herself, suddenly she heard a voice in her head.
❰Zafira❱
An ethereal voice that she hadn't heard in a long while.
'Lady?'
❰It seems you haven't forgotten about me.❱
'How dare I forget about you, my lady?'
❰Cease your pleasantries. I have a mission for you.❱
'A mission.'
❰Belthazor is dead. The one responsible must be found and brought to me.❱
The news echoed through her consciousness, and the woman's eyes gleamed with a newfound intensity. The voice continued, entrusting Zafira with a mission – to find the killer of Belthazor and bring 'him' to her.
Zafira's lips curled into a confident smile. "I shall fulfill this mission, my Lady. The perpetrator will be brought before you."