Now it was Professor Mark's turn. With Kayle, Figgy Cyannfer, Harry Rood, and Brandon Xopicca by his side, he confidently strode into the grand hall. The massive projection screen illuminated, displaying his name, affiliation, and team members:
[ Professor Mark Dorick.
Venessa Academy, Atheliya Empire.
Team: Kayle, Figgy Cyannfer, Harry Rood, Brandon Xopicca.]
Then, the title of his research flashed across the screen, eliciting gasps from the audience:
"Shape-shifting Golem: A Golem that can shift its shape according to the caster's will."
The hall erupted in murmurs of shock, not just at the sight of Kayle once more, but at the audacious claim of the research itself. A Golem was the pinnacle of earth magic, a high-level spell that summoned a construct of unyielding rock. Everyone knew a Golem's unchangeable form was its defining characteristic. What was Mark trying to prove?
"Professor Mark, what is this?" a professor from the Larko Kingdom asked, his voice laced with incredulity. "A shape-shifting Golem? Are you serious? Everyone knows a Golem is a spell that can never change shape!"
"Yes, sir, this is my research," Mark stated, his voice firm and brimming with confidence. "We all know that a Golem can never change its shape, but here today, I'm going to prove that it is indeed possible. Behold—the new Era of Golemology."
He then displayed his research paper and the intricate glyphs on the projector.
"Ladies and gentlemen," Mark began, his voice commanding attention. "I am Mark Dorick, from the Atheliya Empire, and a senior faculty member at Venessa Academy. What you are about to witness is the presentation of years of my dedicated research: the new era of earth magic—the Shape-Shifting Golem."
Mark continued,
"Here is the glyph of the old Golem spells. And here is the new glyph."
He unveiled the new pattern on the screen, and the audience's eyes widened in collective astonishment. The new spell pattern that Professor Mark had created also incorporated Focus Points, forming a mesmerizing helix shape that intricately connected all the factor points within the design.
"As you can see," Mark explained, "the new mana pattern also contains the Focus Points. We all know that a Golem is a rock body, a pure earth spell that operates with a core maintaining and powering it. However, the new mana pattern you are seeing is also a hybrid spell. Just as you saw in Professor Orlando's main research, mine is also a hybrid spell that incorporates Earth, Water, and Wind elements. These three elements, working in conjunction, create the Golem. Unlike the old Golem, which is solely an earth spell, this one is a truly hybrid construct."
The audience was mesmerized by Professor Mark's spell, but it was, at its core, another hybrid spell, similar in concept to what Professor Orlando had just displayed.
"Professor Mark," a scholar from the Patra Kingdom interjected, "we can see that you've changed the structure of the spell from a pure earth spell to a hybrid earth spell, but how can this Golem actually change its shape?"
"Yes, sir, I am coming to that point," Mark responded, a triumphant gleam in his eye. "As we all know, a Golem requires a core for its functioning. The core acts as its power source and is a very important part of the Golem. A core is traditionally a hard crystal; if broken, the Golem would collapse."
He then displayed a new core on the projector screen. It was an unassuming orange color, appearing perfectly normal to the untrained eye. Then, he projected the properties and materials used in its creation.
The core was revealed to be 82% liquid body and 18% hard crystal. It was meticulously crafted using .
50% Aether
32% Plasma,
and 18% of the main core crystal.
The hall erupted in a buzz of voices as they absorbed the revolutionary materials used to create this new core.
Mark raised his voice to be heard above the clamor.
"Yes! This core is 82% liquid, created using Aether and Plasma, encapsulating the main core crystal. This unique mixture of Aether and Plasma completely covers the core crystal, allowing the core to dynamically change its shape while simultaneously protecting the core crystal. Within this 82% liquid body, it becomes incredibly difficult to locate the main core of the crystal. The core will change its shape alongside the Golem, allowing it to assume any type of form as dictated by the caster's will!"
He gestured to Kayle and Figgy. "Here, my assistants will provide the demonstration."
Kayle and Figgy exchanged a quick nod, then began to cast their spell, summoning a Golem with the new core at its heart. The Golem seamlessly absorbed the core into its body, concealing it. Then, they began to shift the Golem's shape.
Kayle transformed the Golem into.
A solid wall
A massive hammer
A sturdy boat, and finally.
A functional stage.
Figgy, in turn, reshaped the Golem into
A gleaming sword,
A Royal throne
A perfectly mimicked spectator
A flowing wind spirit.
Then, both students merged their individual Golems, creating a colossal knight that stood before the stunned audience, its head nearly touching the ceiling. The hall was utterly shocked to witness a Golem transform into such a magnificent and detailed construct. After a moment, they dismantled the Golem, retrieving the still-intact cores.
"Here, ladies and gentlemen, is the result of my research," Mark declared, a triumphant smile on his face. "As you have seen in the demonstration, the core shifted its shape along with the Golem, perfectly hiding its position within the changing form."
The entire hall erupted into a flurry of questions.
"Professor Mark, if the Golem goes berserk, wouldn't it be incredibly difficult to find its core, as the core contains only an 18% crystal part?" a mage from the audience asked, voicing a critical concern. "It could be disastrous!"
"No, sir," Mark responded calmly. "As I stated, this Golem is inextricably linked to the caster. If the caster's link with the Golem is broken, it will automatically dismantle itself. As long as the caster does not want the Golem to go berserk, it simply won't."
"Professor Mark," Anna's voice cut through the murmurs, "the core of the Golem contains three different types of materials. Wouldn't creating it be incredibly costly?"
"Yes, it will be more cost-effective than you might think," Mark clarified. "It will only cost roughly double that of a traditional Golem. However, as we've all witnessed, it can shift its shape and serve numerous purposes. We can use it on the battlefield to prevent the fall of fortresses, reconstruct walls, refill cracks, and many more vital functions. For the greater good, for the protection and well-being of the citizens of our country, we must be willing to sacrifice a little from our own pockets."
A wave of agreement swept through the audience, and the sound of thunderous applause echoed through the hall. Mark and his team bowed, then exited the stage.
_ _ _
Inside the hall people were talking about he Event.
"This year's Grand Continental Research Symposium has truly been eye-opening for me," a man remarked, shaking his head in wonder. "Who would have thought that Venessa Academy would present researches like that? They have truly engraved their name in history!"
"Indeed," Anna agreed, her eyes still wide with amazement. "Especially that boy, Kayle! His discovery of Focus Points has fundamentally changed our view of mana patterns. I never thought something like this could be possible."
"You are absolutely right," another mage chimed in. "He has changed the very fundamentals of magic. He will surely be known as the new founder of magic."
"More than anything else, he is so handsome!" Lady Irena gushed, fanning herself delicately. "I have never seen anyone like him. Even the Crown Prince cannot compare! And he told me I have beautiful eyes... Is he... into me?"
Anna and everyone around her simply stared, unsure how to respond to Lady Irena's sudden flight of fancy.
Just like that, Mark and his team entered the backstage room, carrying the aura of their stunning success.
In the backstage room, Professors Olivia, Orlando, and Lucy waited with anticipation. Their eyes were fixed on the door, hearts still echoing with the applause from the grand hall. A moment later, it opened.
Professor Mark Dorick stepped inside, his expression unmistakably triumphant.
A wide smile stretched across his face—unrestrained and victorious. The others needed no words. Just one look and they knew—everything had gone perfectly.
Laughter broke out, and they all rushed forward. The professors embraced one another, a shared weight lifted from their shoulders. Their students—Kayle, Figgy, Silvia, Sara, Mariya, and the others—joined the moment, radiant with pride.
"We did it," Olivia said, her voice brimming with emotion. "All of us. This moment belongs to everyone here."
"Without your help," Mark added, "none of this would've been possible."
"You've all made Vanessa Academy proud," Lucy smiled warmly, placing her hand on Mariya's shoulder. "No—you've made history."
Olivia turned toward Kayle, her eyes filled with something between admiration and awe.
"Especially you, Kayle. Your discovery of Focus Points revolutionized our understanding of mana structures. It became the backbone of every research project we presented. You've not only helped us—you've changed magic itself."
"By tomorrow morning," Lucy chimed in, "this news will have reached every corner of the empire. Your names will be in every newspaper and magical journal across the continent."
Orlando placed a proud hand on Kayle's shoulder.
"Kayle, your name will be remembered not just in Atheliya, but across the world. Be proud. You've reshaped the future of magic. That's no small thing."
Kayle bowed his head slightly, humbled by the praise.
Just then, Silvia stepped forward, her voice gentle.
"Congratulations, Kayle. You did it… All your hard work—it finally paid off."
He looked at her, a faint smile curving his lips.
"You were part of this too, Silvia. Without your help, we wouldn't have made it this far."
"…Thanks, Kayle," she replied softly, her cheeks touched with a subtle warmth.
Kayle looked toward the professors.
"Now that the presentations are over, shall we head out? There's no reason to linger here anymore."
Olivia chuckled.
"Well, our part may be done, but Smera Academy and the Mage Tower still have their turns. And while you kids can rest, we professors have a few responsibilities left—press interviews, scholarly meetings, investor discussions…"
"But you've earned a break," she added, glancing at all the students. "You've worked non-stop for a year. Go rest, all of you."
"And don't forget," Lucy added with a wink, "Tomorrow night's the Researcher's Gala. It's a formal event to celebrate everyone who participated. Be there on time—and be well dressed. We won't let Venessa Academy lose face, will we?"
"Yes, ma'am!" the students replied in unison, laughter echoing among them.
Lucy walked over to Kayle and draped an arm around his shoulders.
"I'll escort you all out," she said. "Especially you, Kayle. There'll be reporters and nobles lining up outside—trying to get their hands on my little sweetheart. Can't let them snatch you away so easily."
"Protect him with your life, Lucy," Orlando grinned.
With that, they all exited the building together, climbed into the waiting academy carriages, and headed back to the villa under the violet twilight sky.
---
Later at the Villa
The students retired to their rooms, exhausted but joyful. Kayle unlocked his door and stepped inside, just about to toss his coat onto the bed when he heard footsteps behind him.
He turned to see Silvia entering his room casually.
"Silvia? What are you doing here? Go to your room and rest."
"Oh, I am resting," she replied nonchalantly, stepping inside and settling on the bed. "Right here."
Kayle sighed, his face a picture of fatigue.
"Do whatever you like," he muttered, disappearing into the bathroom.
When he stepped out of the shower, drying his silver hair with a towel, he saw Silvia still perched on his bed, legs crossed, grinning.
"You took your sweet time," she teased. "Even I don't spend that long in the shower."
Kayle ignored the jab, rubbing the back of his neck.
"What now?" He asked.
"We're going shopping tonight," Silvia announced with a casual wave of her hand. "There's a party tomorrow, remember? We need outfits."
"Shopping? Again?" Kayle groaned. "We've already visited every store in Boris over the past three days. Where are you getting the money for all this?"
Silvia smirked.
"Those were gifts. I promised my friends I'd bring them back souvenirs. I also bought a few things for my brother… and for you… and for myself, obviously."
She yawned and stretched on the bed like she owned the place.
"Before we left for Cronos, Sir Jackson came to see me. He was thrilled we were chosen for the Symposium. Gave me a generous pouch of gold and told me to enjoy the experience. Said—'Spend freely. Don't hold back.' So, don't worry. Everything's covered."
Kayle blinked, speechless.
"...Of course he did," he mumbled, climbing into bed beside her.
"Now get some rest," Silvia murmured, already closing her eyes. "Tonight, we paint the capital."
---
Later That Night – Boris Market District
Under the sparkling lanterns of Boris's famed fashion district, Kayle once again played the role of unpaid bag-carrier, trudging behind Silvia, arms full of ornate boxes, folded robes, silk bags, and magical accessory pouches.
"This one? Too bright. That one? Not dramatic enough."
"Ooooh, that cloak! That's the one—Kayle, hold these while I go try it on!"
Kayle sighed deeply, his arms aching as Silvia disappeared into another boutique.
"You've spent enough to buy a fortress…" he muttered under his breath.
Still, despite the complaints, a faint smile tugged at the corner of his mouth.
She looked happy.
And that was enough.
---
✦ The Next Evening — The Night of the Gala ✦
The night everyone had been waiting for had finally arrived.
The Grand Researcher's Gala —a celebration of knowledge, innovation, and magical excellence—was held in the legendary Velvet Hall of the Imperial Palace. The venue had been transformed into a realm of brilliance. Glistening chandeliers floated above velvet-draped walls, and the air carried the soft melody of a noble orchestra. The Imperial family had spared no effort in making this night an unforgettable spectacle.
The hall was brimming with guests from every corner of the continent.
Nobles of the empire, renowned scholars, high-ranking mages, elite runelogists, famed alchemists, guild masters, wealthy investors, and merchant lords—all stood beneath one roof, dressed in the finest silks and gems, their presence elevating the evening into a parade of grandeur. The attendees had arrived from across the Atheliya Empire, and neighboring kingdoms—Larko, Sinth, Patra, Pula, Hanths, and Ovoris—each with their own representatives of prestige and power.
Everyone wore formal noble attire, lavished in taste. Flowing gowns shimmered with embroidered mana threads. Suits gleamed with gold linings and arcane runes. Laughter, clinking glasses, and whispered admiration filled the room.
One by one, the representatives of the foreign kingdoms made their entrance.
The Larko and Ovoris Kingdoms were first, and instantly seized the attention of the room. The girls from these kingdoms—renowned across the continent for their Natural beauty—lived up to their reputation tonight. Draped in elegant dresses that blended traditional design with modern finesse, they moved through the hall like enchantresses.
"Gods, look at them…"
"Ovoris girls are something else…"
"Even the court painters couldn't capture that kind of beauty…"
Noble sons from the empire began flocking toward them, offering compliments and invitations to dance. All eyes were on them—until the next entrance shifted the entire atmosphere.
---
Arrival of the Atheliya Empire Delegations
The Mage Tower's delegation entered first.
Their students were dressed in pristine suits of white and Sapphire Blue—clean, sharp, and unified. Their robes bore subtle glints of enchantment, giving them a majestic, scholarly aura. Their professors followed behind, nodding gracefully to the assembled nobility.
Next came the radiant entrance of smera Girls Academy.
Led by Professors Alisha and Eska, the group swept into the hall like a storm of grace and pride. Alisha wore an elegant, deep black dress that sparkled like the night sky, while Eska stunned in royal purple, a color of wisdom and command. Both women carried themselves with unshakable poise, their presence magnetic.
Behind them followed the jewel of Smera Academy—Jennica Roxidon, flanked by her juniors and seniors. Jennica wore a cream-colored dress that complemented her golden hair, accented by a gleaming aquamarine necklace that drew stares from every direction. Her fellow students were dressed in noble finery, each styled with elegance and intention.
The once-bold noble boys, who had eagerly approached the kingdom girls before, suddenly paused. Their attention now shifted entirely to Smera's girls.
"Senior, they're mesmerized by your beauty again," a younger student giggled.
"Tch. It's expected," Jennica replied calmly. "But I'm not interested in them."
Her gaze swept the room.
"Where are the students of Venessa Academy?" she murmured.
"Why are you looking for them, senior?" the girl beside her asked curiously.
Before she could answer, another girl whispered playfully:
"Shhh… You idiot. Don't you know? She's been searching for **that boy—Kayle—**since yesterday. After the Symposium ended, she asked around but he'd already left."
"Wait, seriously?" the first girl gasped. "Don't tell me our senior's actually into him?"
"Of course she is," another chimed in. "Even I've never seen someone that devastatingly handsome before."
At that very moment, the students and professors of Venessa Academy arrived.
Professor Orlando and Professor Mark entered first, walking side by side in tailored noble robes—one in charcoal silver, the other in deep midnight blue. For once, Mark had taken off his signature glasses, revealing striking sapphire eyes that gleamed with intelligence and calm strength. Together, they looked like two noble warlocks from the Empire's legends.
Next came Professor Olivia and Professor Lucy.
The hall seemed to pause.
Olivia wore a flowing black gown with silver accents, paired with a delicate moonlight necklace and a bracelet that sparkled with enchanted frost gems. Her beauty was ethereal—almost unreal. She looked like a noble enchantress descended from the heavens.
Beside her was Lucy, dressed in a soft baby pink dress that matched the color of her rose-blush hair and warm eyes. She smiled radiantly, blooming like the rarest flower in an imperial garden.
The men in the hall could hardly breathe.
"Who are they…?"
"No way… Are they the professors from Venessa?"
"I—I've never seen elegance like this…"
Then came the students.
Silvia, Mariya, Figgy, Sara, Emma, Visal, Katty, Harry, Alice, Mike, Brandon and Jennifer. One after another, they stepped into the hall like stars from a royal constellation.
Each wore attire fit for nobility—sleek, luxurious, and perfectly tailored. Enchanted fabrics shimmered with subtle magic, and their composure turned heads across the room.
Gasps echoed throughout the crowd.
They were no longer mere students—they were scholars of renown.
"That's them... the ones who shook the Symposium…"
"They look like nobles among nobles…"
And yet, even among them, two girls outshone the rest.
Sara and Silvia.
Sara wore a regal violet gown, the color weaving into her hair and eyes with perfect harmony. Her poise was unmatched—serene and mysterious. She gave off the energy of a powerful dark mage from ancient tales. Even Jennica, radiant in her own right, felt the pressure of her presence.
Sara was the very embodiment of nobility. Her elegance wasn't loud—it was overwhelming.
Next to her was Silvia .
Silvia wore a striking dress of deep black and crimson red, a seamless match to her midnight-black hair and her rare, black and faint crimson eyes that shimmered like garnets in moonlight. She looked like a mystical goddess stepping into the mortal world—an embodiment of dark allure and quiet power.
Tonight, Silvia wasn't just beautiful—she was divine.
And she lived up to her destined title:
> The Dark Phoenix.
Her beauty stole the breath of every soul in the hall. Even Sara, radiant and noble, and Jennica, the golden star of Smera, could not stand shoulder-to-shoulder with her presence. The young women from the foreign kingdoms—so admired just moments before—now felt an invisible pressure settle over them. An instinctive jealousy curled in their chests as Silvia's elegance, her presence, her quiet charisma, drowned out their radiance.
Whispers bloomed across the hall.
"Who is she?"
"Is she a princess of the Atheliya Empire?"
"Goddess… that can't be a student…"
"Father, I think I just found my soulmate," muttered a dazed noble heir from Cronos, nearly dropping his wine glass.
But Silvia paid none of it any mind.
Her gaze was fixed on the main entrance of the hall, her eyes scanning impatiently. Sara, standing next to her in her own glorious violet gown, also glanced toward the doors with a subtle sigh.
"That idiot… how long is he going to stay in the restroom?" Silvia muttered through clenched teeth. "I swear, I'm going to tie him up in my room so he can't run off again."
Sara raised an eyebrow, amused.
"Tie him up? In your room?" she asked with mock innocence.
Silvia shot her a look.
"Mind your own business," she said curtly, cheeks slightly pink.
Before Sara could tease her further, Olivia signaled them from across the hall.
"Let's go. The professors are waving us over," Sara said. "Kayle's not a child. He'll show up."
Silvia gave one last glare at the entrance before turning with a sigh.
The hall was in full bloom now—laughter, music, clinking glasses. The Venessa Academy students quickly became the center of the banquet, surrounded by nobles, scholars, and even foreign royalty.
Silvia, though new to such events, composed herself gracefully. Her years of strength, solitude, and resilience had given her more poise than she realized. Still, Olivia noticed the hint of discomfort in her steps and stayed close—shielding her from overzealous noblemen and offering gentle guidance.
Elsewhere, students mingled with the great minds of the continent—talking research, innovation, and magic.
And then—
The room stilled.
A familiar trumpet fanfare echoed through the hall.
> "His Imperial Majesty, Emperor Marcus Cronos—with the Imperial Family!"
All eyes turned toward the entrance.
Emperor Marcus, tall and regal with his signature golden cloak, entered the hall. At his side was Empress Helena, exuding quiet grace, followed by Crown Prince Robert, noble and dignified; Second PrinceRaymond, youthful and sharp-eyed; and the youngest, Princess Marry cronos, dressed in blue velvet, adorned with sapphire gems that glimmered like stardust.
Everyone bowed, curtsied, or greeted them with utmost respect.
As the Emperor scanned the crowd, his gaze fell on the Venessa Academy group. He approached them directly.
"Greetings, Your Majesty," the professors and students said in unison, bowing in respect.
Emperor Marcus smiled warmly.
"Ah… it's been some time, hasn't it? You haven't aged a day, Professor Orlando—still as diligent as ever. And Mark… this is my first time seeing you without glasses. You've been hiding those blue eyes of yours."
He turned to Olivia and Lucy. "And you two… Miss Olivia, Miss Lucy… exquisite, as always. You honor this hall with your presence tonight."
"Thank you, Your Majesty," they replied gracefully.
Then his eyes fell on the students.
"So these are the students of Venessa Academy… My, my… such noble bearing. I'd mistake you all for royal heirs."
And then his gaze locked onto Silvia.
He stepped closer, clearly struck by her presence.
"By the heavens… Who is this young lady? Have I truly never seen you before? A fairy, perhaps? You must be the daughter of a noble house…?"
Silvia bowed respectfully.
"Thank you for your kind words, Your Majesty… but I am not from any noble family. I'm a commoner—from a countryside village."
The entire hall froze. Even the whispering wind seemed to hold its breath.
A goddess in appearance… a commoner?
Even the Emperor's eyes widened in surprise.
But before silence could turn to judgment, Olivia stepped forward calmly.
"Your Majesty, at Venessa Academy, we value talent over background. Status means little. Silvia is a brilliant student and was a vital part of my research. Without her, I would not have completed my work. She is one of my proudest students."
The Emperor smiled, clearly impressed.
"Well said, Miss Olivia. In Cronos, we also honor merit. Silvia… I hope you rise to even greater heights. You have my respect."
"Thank you, Your Majesty," Silvia replied, her voice steady.
As the night unfolded, nobles from various kingdoms began approaching the girls from Atheliya—particularly Sara and Silvia.
"My lady, may I have the honor of a dance?"
"Oh… I'm sorry," Silvia said with a faint smile. "I'm waiting for someone. My partner should be arriving soon."
One after another, both she and Sara turned down offers politely.
Silvia moved toward the refreshment table, accepting a drink from one of the palace maids. As she turned to return, walking back across the marble floor—
"Ouch..."
The soft murmur of conversation in the Grand Banquet Hall was suddenly pierced by a subtle commotion.
Someone, from behind, intentionally bumped Silvia. It wasn't violent, but it was undeniably deliberate.
Silvia stumbled forward, her balance failing her. The drink in her hand arced through the air, heading directly for Princess Marry.
The liquid was just about to stain the Princess's exquisite gown when, abruptly, it froze, suspended in mid-air. Simultaneously, Silvia, on the verge of collapsing, found herself caught and resting securely in the arms of a boy who had appeared out of nowhere.
It was Kayle.
He had materialized as if from thin air, catching the falling Silvia and, with an unseen force, stopping the drink with a powerful display of telekinesis.
Kayle held Silvia gently by the waist, cradling her as a prince would a princess. Their eyes met, locking in a profound moment. Silvia, gazing into Kayle's deep, mesmerizing eyes, found herself utterly captivated, her heart pounding wildly in her chest. They looked, to all who witnessed it, like a divine couple. Every eye in the hall was on them, shocked not only by the sight of the two students but by the impossible spectacle of a drink floating effortlessly in the air.
"Are you okay, Silvia?" Kayle's voice was soft, laced with concern.
"Yeah... Kayle," she managed to utter, her gaze lost in his profound eyes.
"Thank God," he breathed, a hint of relief in his tone. He then gently helped Silvia stand on her own feet.
Turning smoothly towards Princess Mary, Kayle, with a graceful flick of his wrist, poured the suspended drink from mid-air directly into an empty glass nearby.
Princess Mary, along with everyone else present, was utterly stunned by this effortless display of magic.
"I hope that you are okay, Princess Mary," Kayle said, closing the small gap between them. "I'm very sorry for what happened. Silvia merely twisted her ankle, which is why the drink came your way, but I caught it mid-air so it wouldn't ruin your dress."
Princess Mary, however, was simply staring at Kayle's face, unable to blink. She hadn't heard a single word he'd said, utterly entranced by his presence. Kayle leaned closer, his voice soft once more.
"Princess, are you okay?" he asked, his face now very near hers.
Mary snapped out of her daze. "Wh...what happened?" she stammered, a blush rising on her cheeks.
"I'm asking if you're okay," Kayle repeated gently.
"Oh... yes, I'm completely fine," she finally managed, her blush deepening.
"I'm glad to hear it," Kayle said, offering her a reassuring smile before turning and taking Silvia's hand firmly in his own.
Princess Mary and every other girl in the banquet hall watched, captivated, as Kayle turned away.
He was like an angel, descended directly from the heavens. He wore a perfectly tailored suit, a striking combination of black and white. His tall, statuesque height, broad shoulders, and perfectly sculpted face, adorned with those captivating green and blue eyes, created a truly arresting presence.
"Who is he.." A girl from Larko kingdom said
"What relationship does he have with...that Silvia." A girl from Ovoris kingdom said.
"Why it's not me..." A noble girl from the Cronos Empire said.
Every girl's heart raced like a galloping horse as he walked past them, holding Silvia's hand.
Whether they were princesses, noble girls from the Larko and Ovoris Kingdoms, students from Smera Academy, or even the Empire's own high-born daughters, they were all utterly mesmerized by his charm. A wave of jealousy washed over them as they saw him holding Silvia's hand, the indelible image of their earlier moment together still burned into their minds.
In that moment, Silvia had become the most envied woman in the empire.
"Just like the original story," Aeon thought to himself, a grim satisfaction settling over him. "Someone shoved Silvia, and her drink splashed on Marry. It appeared to be an accident, but it was all intentional. Marry, that good-for-nothing princess, was jealous of Silvia for getting all the attention. after hearing that silvia is a commoner, she ordered her noble friend to shove Silvia on purpose, just to embarrass her. In the original story, Silvia had to bow before her and beg for forgiveness. Marry 'forgave' her, claiming it was a mistake, but everyone still looked down on Silvia, saying they couldn't expect anything more from a commoner. They humiliated her, and she cried in her room all night. Thank God I came at the right time. Otherwise, things would have unfolded exactly like the original story."
With Silvia's hand still in his, Kayle reached the Venessa Academy professors.
"What just happened, Kayle?" Olivia asked, her eyes wide with curiosity and a touch of shock.
"Nothing, Silvia just twisted her ankle," Kayle replied, feigning nonchalance.
"No, I'm talking about that magic you just used to stop the drink from falling on the princess! What was that?" Olivia pressed, her eyes blazing with scientific curiosity.
"Oh... that was my new spell," Kayle said simply, a hint of a playful smile. "One I developed during our research."
"WHAT?!" Olivia practically shouted. Mark, Orlando, and Lucy's eyes widened in disbelief, mirroring her shock.
They were all stunned by Kayle's casual revelation, but their amazement was quickly overshadowed as a surge of people from across the hall began to approach Kayle, a clamoring crowd eager for his attention.
"You're Kayle, aren't you? I saw you in the Research Presentation! Can I have a moment?" a scholar said, pushing forward.
"Kayle, can you spare me a moment?" the Guildmaster from the Sinth Kingdom requested, his voice booming.
"Kayle, can you tell me about that magic you just used?" a mage asked, his eyes gleaming with fascination.
"Hey, Kayle, it's me, Anna! You talked to me in the presentation, remember?" Anna called out, her cheeks still faintly flushed.
"Hello, Kayle. I'm Irena. You said I have eyes more beautiful than mana crystals..." Lady Irena purred, pushing through the crowd.
So many people began introducing themselves to Kayle, swarming him. The professors instinctively stepped forward, forming a protective shield around him.
"Everyone, please, one by one," Olivia pleaded, trying to manage the chaos. "Kayle is here."
"Sir, please," Lucy added, her voice firm. "One by one, Kayle isn't going anywhere."
"Honorable masters, don't worry," Orlando's booming voice cut through the clamor. "We are here to strengthen the bonds of friendship. My student isn't going anywhere. We can all have a proper talk."
"Hello, Mister Kayle. Can I have a moment?" a new voice cut through the throng, calm and authoritative.
Everyone paused, the crowd parting as they saw the man.
Kayle, who had remained composed through the entire whirlwind of attention, suddenly widened his eyes. He gritted his teeth, his fist clenching almost imperceptibly. He took a deep breath, visibly controlling himself.
"So, you have finally shown yourself," Aeon thought, a cold fury rising within him. "The one who made Silvia's life miserable."
The man before him was one of the Eight Stars:
The Eighth Circle Mage.
The Burning Sun.
Alexander Jaforiss.